Lael Osness F/W 2010

As the very first designer debuting her collection at the first day of Alberta Fashion Week 2010, Lael Osness set the ball rolling on a week full of immaculately conceived high fashion. Based out of Calgary, coming from a family of seamstresses,  the designer has made her mission “to create ready to wear clothing that evokes vintage glamour fused with modern versatility.”

Osness hit the target dead centre with a head-turning array of 1940’s war time inspired ladies wear. The backdrop at BR& with grand stair case and crystal chandeliers was perfectly matched, evoking images of vixen actresses, alluring spies, and glamorous debutants.

The collection utilizes a number of classicly feminine fabrics and cuts, including wool, tartan, leather, and fur. Combined with Parisian style hats, as well as belts and gloves, the finished product is a wonderfully crafted take on the understated glamour of the era. Bringing the style into modernity was the designer’s use of bold colour and texture combinations.

Noteworthy designs include the tartan wrap dress, a pair of debonair high waist lace trousers, and an ultra-chique fur collared, cuffed and hemmed, skirt suit.   The designer’s sewing expertise and raw talent is exemplified by this form and structure focused collection of tailored pants, suits, blouses, dresses and jackets of all shapes and styles.  Though we have just entered spring, we can look forward to autumn with the designs of this collection that offer work suitable clothing with the added glam factor.

Adriana Sveen

Photos by Faby Martin