In fairness, when handsome models meet well tailored clothing, it’s difficult to have a bad show, but Bates really delivered a remarkable performance for his second collection. He elevated boyish charm – red lipstick kisses on the collars of slim cut white dress shirts, to sharp innovation, with plasticized cottons, brazen metallic zippers and slim cut suiting, making his show a highlight of the week. The waxed cotton tux jacket may have been a bit too fitted on the model but no one was complaining.

The zippers, placed suggestively on the outside of the waxed cotton pants caught the attention of everyone- how could they not? Some were in favour of the near-garish zips, while others thought they were a bit “too inviting” (said one fashion editor who will remain nameless). On that note, the designer held no bones about playing off the sexual nature of sleek menswear. Remember, this is the same designer that had one of his models hand off a rose to a front row attendee during last seasons Mercedes-Benz Start Up show. This play on romanticism seems to not only drive the spirit of the Bates line, but is incidentally what sets his… say, waxed cotton denim, apart from the thousands on the market today.

In short, the collection was well tailored and the textiles used were of the highest caliber. If you’re not already enamored with Christopher Bates, you’ll be bought over by the quality in construction, fit, and fabrics.

Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Story contributed by Fashion Blogger Mark St. James of Marquis of Fashion

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Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Of the collection, Lucian said: “This season I wanted to focus on the simplicity of the silhouette rather than the details.” In doing so, the collection was based on a monochromatic color scheme which allowed Matis to “emphasis the shape of the garments from an architectural methodology with boxy geometric shapes.” The collection was most definitely a play on shapes, as indicated, but also evoked a refined elegance and boasted impossibly chic silhouettes.

There was also a playful elegance to the collection, brought to life with fur, felts, wool, and silk.  Fashion forward in its styling, the show was an editorial delight, but with the distinct ability to be broken down for everyday wear-ability. Lucian’s latest collection further proves the designer’s talent and his ability to translate inspiration into reality; a talent that leaves us anxiously awaiting his next work.

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Photo credit: Jenna Marie Wakani

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Photo Credit: George Pimentel

The theme for the collection was an  “optimistic post-apocalypse” with inspiration from Sid Neigum’s “… childhood in rural Western Canada, with inspiration from the late 80′s and 90′s.” This is seen throughout the silhouettes which play on hard vs soft, and over-sized vs structured. The color pallet shifts from white, to all black everything, to a cool grey, and finishes with a soft floral and mixing of greens.

From more relaxed bohemian-inspired silhouettes paired with ultra-cool leather jackets, to perfectly tailored pantsuits, the collection boasts huge talent and an exciting look for fall. Promising unique looks for any occasion, Sid will be hard-pressed to find a woman who can’t relate in some way to this collection.

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Photo credit: Michael Ho

Day wear separates were predominately black-on-black (with a few hints of metallic), expertly detailed with leather and contrasting fabrics. Textured leather breathed new life into a long-sleeved day dress, and gave an edge to more feminine coats and dresses, while menswear jackets with leather sleeves and lapels kept things far from ordinary.

Parkas, a necessary wardrobe staple, were given a luxurious  and fashion-forward feel with creative uses of fur. From all-encompassing, to a-symmetrical lines, these looks promised a glamorous addition to any winter look. The collection is sexy and chic with a healthy dose of attitude and we can’t think of a better way to welcome the new season.

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Photo Credit: George Pimentel

“After a trip to Paris, I couldn’t resist translating the structure and design into my work,” says designer Caitlin Power. “Architecture has always been something that I find inspiring and this collection interprets the significant marriage between ancient building structures and the modern elements that keep them current.”

The fall 2013 collection evokes a sense of new romanticism in Caitlin Power’s signature, tailored style. Structured, geometric lines and dramatic asymmetrical cuts are emphasized by a dark color palette, highlighted by oxblood and deep teal. Textures are juxtaposed, creating a dynamic contrast in the looks.

Caitlin Power is truly a designer to watch. She is proof that design talent is developing in Canada’s fashion industry and a force to be reckoned with. Check out the fall 2013 collection below and be sure to watch the full season of OFF THE RUNWAY here.

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Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Set against the backdrop of a shadowy full moon, KORHANI’s first theme, Nocturnal, has Bride-of-Frankenstein-esque models coming down the runway in a dark seductive palette of grays, deep purples, soft blacks and shades of burgundy. Vintage timepieces and gothic floral prints on a velvety texture, accompanied by a soft yellow fringe detail make this dark and mysterious theme Kirsten Korhani’s favourite.

Moving onto a lighter fresh colour palatte of dusty roses, rose golds, soft greens and beiges, the next theme, Allure celebrates the sheer elegance of the 1930’s cinema diva. Bold geometric prints, embellished turbans and fur detailing have us traveling back in time to the world of art deco. As the red curtain rises, KORHANI gives us an alternative if neutral tones are not your cup of tea. Warm and rich wooden orange and mahogany tones spice up the runway as KORHANI pays tribute to the seductive era of the dream factory divas.

Finally, Celebricity/VIP ONLY is the “Throwback Thursday’s” you never wanted to forget: the disco fever of the 1970s. Bold, vibrant and subdued neon mosaic colour-blocking prints a long side of Andy Warhol inspired pop art. Interesting choice of Asian inspired cuts (with a mix of the Chinese and Vietnamese collar) makes this theme worldly, fun and perfect for the young and hip downtown condo dweller.

Although it was a bit disappointing that the show did not include a traditional live animal – last season was a piglet – it was a fabulous and fun show as always and it reminds us that our home décor should change, like our wardrobe, with the seasons.

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Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Golnaz Ashtiani, a graduate of London College of Fashion, has never been afraid to play with colour and texture and this collection was on fire with both. Clean lines and minimalistic construction made great foundations for lace and mohair paneling, shredded silk and geometric silk organza detailing. Playing with textiles seemed to be another inspiration and there was no shortage of them. Highlights included a Burgundy wool cape with expert construction (Look #5) and a geometric lace and silk velvet pyjama (look #11).

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Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Montreal designers José Manuel St-Jacques and Simon Bélanger have a wealth of design education and training between the two of them and the product of this is UNTTLD. Working with the idea of no rules, no limitations and open to any design concepts, the duo have created collections that embrace the mentality that you can wear what you really want to, without sacrificing style.

Working with a monochromatic palette, St-Jacques and Bélanger brought a superbly streamlined collection of separates that you could layer and style with ease. Sheer inserts, belted fur, dropped waists and tailored blazers created interest and appeal. Highlights included a shimmery, dropped waist backless gown and a sporty, boxy top with mini-peplum. All black is back with a vengeance and we’re looking forward to a chic Fall 2013.

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