Plaid & Chiffon Skirt: N.R.T Fashions

Nicole Rita Tomney, local Calgary designer of N.R.T Fashions, is premiering her Fall/Winter 2012 collection, DROP DEAD, and celebrating the launch of her online store at Sociale Bar and Grille tonight. Recently, I had the opportunity to interview Nicole on her exciting new projects with musicians and on what gets her creative juices going:

CF: I understand a lot of your inspiration for your designs comes from music. Can you tell me more about that?

I love music just as much as I love fashion. I get SO inspired by lyrics, style and the music industry as a whole. I feel that so much can be expressed in songs and music videos. The artists who inspire me the most are the ones who are not afraid to take things to the extreme or to show what crazy and maybe twisted thoughts they have in their head.

When I am sewing I will listen to an album over and over and its keeps my creative mind going. People like Marilyn Manson, Slipknot and Lady Gaga and even as far back as bands like The Sex Pistols, The Casualties or even Madonna in her early days have shown the world so many crazy and great things that have shaped a lot of how the fashion industry is today.

I love watching a music video and thinking how amazing it is that fashion designers like myself have the opportunity to create amazing pieces that have the potential to be shown across the world alongside an amazing song.

CF: What designers inspire your work?

The designers that inspire my work are Alexander McQueen, Thierry Mugler, Viktor and Rolf and Balenciaga. They are all so brilliant and I hope to one day even come close to accomplishing as much as they all have.

CF: Your designs can be dark. Would you describe yourself as a dark person?

At first I definitely confuse a lot of people because I don’t come off as a dark person or someone who would create the designs that I do. I express myself through my designs and my art and they show the true feelings that I don’t generally express in any other way. I listen to a lot of dark music and like things that are shocking and make me think. I am more intrigued and inspired by things that are not necessarily the ‘normal’ or ‘pretty’ things in most people’s opinions but are to me.

CF: In some of your past shows, you have used masks and tape over the mouth. I’ve seen this in other shows, such as Alexander McQueen. What is your inspiration for this?

The reason that I have used the masks and duct tape over the mouths of my models is because to me it is about the fashion and not the model so by having the faces or mouths covered people are looking at the design and the overall feel of the look that I am creating. Fashion to me is a silent thing and should only be expressed or shown for people to question and appreciate.

CF: You’ve worked with a number of musicians including Destineak, Negative Earth and Like a Storm. Can you tell me more about these projects? How did they come about, and what exactly were you involved in?

I have had the pleasure of working with a number of musicians over the past two years doing music videos and performances. It has been quite crazy as each of the artists that I have worked with have found me by seeing my stuff on my blog and Facebook.

Christina Sing of Destineak came to Calgary last April and a friend of mine contacted me to have her wear one of my body suits. Then in June before even meeting Destineak in person they had me create all the looks for their video ‘Shine’ which we filmed in Mexico for ten days. I did everything from create the clothing to assisting, to hair, to just anything that was needed.

I have also recently been working on a video with Trev Kill from Negative Earth here in Calgary which has been really fun because his style is very cool and I haven’t found a lot of artists in Calgary who are dark. I also went out to Vancouver this past October to work on the set of Like a Storm’s (a band from New Zealand) new music video which was wicked because the whole theme was steampunk!

All the musicians I have gotten to work with thus far have been so great and it has been such amazing experience for me to be on set learning so much. I definitely can’t wait to work with more musicians!

CF: Is there anything you can tell us about your new collection, DROP DEAD, without giving too much away? Any hints? Inspirations?

Get ready for 1980’s Punk, gas masks, black, leather and a show like Calgary has never seen. You will NOT want to miss this one!

CF: What are your future aspirations for NRT Fashions? Is it a line you would like to grow, or take in new directions?

For NRT, I would like to just keep working hard at creating pieces that make people think and question what fashion really is. I hope to show in bigger fashion weeks and be in magazines internationally. I would also love to work more with musicians, and with the launch of NRT Fashions online store and website I will be able to get my designs to clients not only in Calgary but in other cities as well!

CF: Do you have any other news for NRT Fashions aside from the launch of your website and online store?

Take a peek at the new Destineak music video which launched online February 1^st with all NRT pieces!

Buy tickets for DROP DEAD this Friday at Sociale Bar and Grille.

Words by Courtney Kos || Photography by Fela Dales & Alexandra Beraru

Fashion designer Lauren Bagliore delivers to Calgary an impressive resume that lists the designer alongside staple names of the fashion industry. The Art of Fashion debuted at the DaDe Art & Design Lab where guests were dazzled and entranced by Bagliore’s ready to wear line.

Now based in Calgary, Bagliore has just returned from a very succesful showing at LG Fashion Week in Toronto. The celebrated designer maintains consitency with the style and general look of her line, tying the collection together with elegant evening dresses and distinct outerwear jackets. Nothing is overdone. From the layering to the ruching and the cuts of dresses, Bagliore’s choice of fabric is right on the money, mixing tones and textures elegantly.

True stand out pieces were the long dresses that flowed to the ground with a train that could be held by  hand or slipped over the shoulder.

For the evening, Bagliore paired up with the charity organization Ratanak to raise awareness on human trafficking in Cambodia.

Photography © Eric Epie/Calgary Fashion 

It seems as though everyone in the know about fashion week in Ottawa was set to flip the script on the city being voted one of the worst dressed in the world last week. Ottawa Fashion Week guests proved the claim far from wrong as the weeks visitors patrolled the newly erected Convention Center on Colonel By Drive, just south of Rideau Street. From the outside, the Ottawa Convention Center resembles a Swarovski ornament stuck to the side of a building, a rather fancy site for the eyes. An elongated glass front on the Colonel By Drive entrance makes the street and internal escalator fully visible from each side. The center provided a decadent setting for Ottawa Fashion Week as every evening the sun went down, the lighting in the room would transform with the atmosphere during intermissions.

Guests displayed distinct style choices sporting some of the latest from Ottawa’s rising stars to one of a kind vintage picks from around the world, to luxe wear found in boutiques around the country or on travels overseas. So much for the “worst-dressed” claim, Ottawa appears to be a place where the stylish stand out boldly and tastefully.

Opening night, bloggers, members of the media and guests buzzed amongst one another as editors and their photographers stopped guests in their tracks to record full outfits for the various publications in attendance. The first selection of shows delivered vintage-classic women’s line Birds of North America, swimwear designer Amber Watkins and Canadian fashion veteran, Montréal based Valérie Dumaine.

For Spring/Summer 2012, Birds of North America stayed true to the spirit of drawing inspiration from the construction and style elements found in the uniform. Designer Hayley  Gibson showed a solid selection of  versatile cotton dresses that came down the runway with classic prints of horizontal and vertical stripes with florals and graphic motifs in ensembles fit for day to night transformations.

Dresses were offset with the colour red and accentuated with bows and deep square pockets. Classic Birds of North America details such as the contrast piping infused withmixed with bone coloured details and nautical accents. Models also walked the runway in bandages and eye patches in reference to the inspiration behind the collection which was reminiscent of old school nurse wear uniforms of the 30s. Founded in 2007 and available in 20 stores across North America, Birds of North America is available in Alberta at Muse (http://bethemuse.ca) in Red Deer and Meese (http://www.meeseclothing.com) located in Edmonton and Saint Albert.

Amber Watkins SWIM debuted with a collection of tropical one and two piece suits adorned with magnificent gold chunky chains and ornamented feathered accessories by Pica Jewellery. Amber Watkins’ designs were a delight to see down the runway with just 2 design years under her belt, fully inspired to take on the role of designer after a trip to New York Fashion Week in 2010, Amber Watkins ambition shows promise. Models walked comfortably and securely in each piece that came down the runway, Watkins first full collection was sturdy and supportive. Full piece suits were cut uniquely to show the torso and back area and the high waisted bottoms were a favourite among the editors that evening. (See the full collection.)

Valérie Dumaine, a veteran in the Canadian fashion industry holds over 14 years of experience under her belt and is close to becoming a Canadian staple in every girls wardrobe. Available in over 40 stores across Canada and the United States, Valérie Dumaine is a name every Canadian girl will build a relationship with on the hunt for some of Canada’s deserving designers. Debuting at Ottawa Fashion Week with her eponymous collection for Spring/Summer 12, Valérie Dumaine would present an airy collection for the warm summer days and nights of the season. Also a star for day to night transitions, Valérie Dumaine stuck to neutral tones with most of the collection structured to show off the silhouette. In Calgary,the latest from Valérie Dumaine is available at Queen Boutique (http://www.queenboutique.ca) and Studio Intent (http://www.studiointent.ca) (See the full collection.)

Runway image courtesy of Ottawa Fashion Week.   || Check out our Facebook photo album to see the who’s who of Ottawa Fashion Week. 

by Kimberley Jev

Sometimes the fashion police can be very hard on the undeserving/unsuspecting. Ottawa, capital city of Canada was at one time voted the 8th worst dressed city not just in Canada but more intensely, the world.  Lined up with Jersey Shore, Pittsburgh and believe it or not Harajuku, Japan, the accusation sparked a deeper interest in what the fashion enthusiasts are actually saying at Ottawa Fashion Week’s.

Ottawa Fashion Week welcomed both national and international designers to the elegant Arc The Hotel (140 Slater Street) for their opening reception, September 28th, 2011. There is a steady flow to the city,  however, throw any individual mindful of fashion in a room full of designers and all that changes. When met with the room of VIP and media professionals in town to cover the event, it was a pleasant surprise to see quite the selection of outfits, shoes, hairstyles and more.

Images © Calgary Fashion 2011 

It is time to dust off those boots and do the “Boot Scootin’ Boogie.” Stampede has once again snuck up on us! The city’s spirit is alive: ten days of mini donuts, the grandstand show, country music and rides.

Yesterday, The CORE began the festivities by putting on a fashion show revealing the latest trends for both men and women. With the help of country musical artist Matt Masters, it attracted quite the crowd on Stephen Avenue. Eveline Charles did the hair and make-up for the models & clothing was provided by Brooks Brothers, Cleo, Smart Set, H&M, Judith & Charles, Gap, Harry Rosen and Holt Renfrew. The idea was to keep it simple, yet fun.

From July 4^th to the 17^th , Holt Renfrew will be having on the spot hemming with all jean purchases. Men’s starting at $85 and women’s at $120. There will also be a special performance by Albertan singer Kira Hladun on Saturday, July 9^th from 1 to 4 pm.

Do not miss out!

For more information on the Calgary Stampede check out their website at http://cs.calgarystampede.com/

Happy Stampeding!

Words by Daniela Codreanu

Photography by Paul Spenard

Exhausted from a busy week, Cirque du Manique was the perfect cure to liven the spirit and pamper the fashion soul. Upon arrival, guests were gifted with swag bags filled with discount cards and sweet treats. Then, guests were ushered to their tables to enjoy tasty appetizers brought straight to their table by costumed servers until the show.

The show began with a live performance from Dana Kolba. She sang seated in an antique wheelchair as a very unhappy clown wheeled her crookedly down the runway. It was such an unusual sight that the voices of the audience were brought down to a hush as they watched.

A zombie dance duo of Hung Huynh and Brittany Parent were next on the performance list and wowed the crowd with an amazing hip-hop routine.

Finally, it was the part of the night everyone was looking forward to: the MaNoKin Design fashion show! It felt like the best of Alberta Fashion Week all over again. The clothing designs looked just like fashion sketches fresh from the drawing board. Marsina King, designer of MaNoKin Design, combined the beautiful colours of chiffon prints, eye-catching textures of faux-fur and python, sophisticated wool and the comfort of knits to create incredibly detailed and extravagant ready-to-wear apparel.

MaNoKin Design is the perfect fit for fashion savvy Calgarians. A MaNoKin Design wardrobe can easily be incorporated in Calgary’s corporate world, night life, red carpet events and everyday wear.

Top picks include the python print bomber jacket, MaNoKin Design belts, and the slim jumper:

The faux python print bomber jacket was the perfect amalgamation of class and style. The solid knit on the jacket sleeves and bordering on the jacket bottom created a design sophistication that is versatile enough for everyday wear and for a night on-the-town.

Every MaNoKin Design belt was a masterpiece and a must-have. The asymmetrical faux python print was the most captivating. With its black trim and adorable bow-tie shaped belt closures, this piece instantly incited fashion lust in this fashionista.

The slim jumper created more feminine silhouettes compared to the infamous harem jumpers. The designs hugged the models’ curves more naturally with the appeal of ultimate comfort.

Marsina attributes the success of Cirque du Manique to the hard work of Danielle Mossfeldt of Death by Shoe and Brittany Dalby from Urban Vows, who both had a big hand in planning the event. The sponsors also played a part in the event’s success. They were  The Little Cupcake Shoppe, Peel Salon & Spa, Pumped! Shoes and other Yummy Things, Numa Models, and Flora.

Words by Elle Nguyen

Photography by George Cox

Videography by Paul Spenard

Artifaax Productions presented a wonderful fashion show on June 16^th at the BMO Centre. Denise Brillon – producer, director, and fashion designer of the show – describes the event as “a fashion presentation celebrating the traditions of Pow Wow through a dance memorial to the past and a grand entry to the future”.

The fashion show began with a traditional dance piece by Maddy McCallum. McCallum danced in a half-sleeve, full-length gown, taupe in colour. The stretch fabric hugged her shape as she gracefully manoeuvred around the stage. The design was simple, allowing the wearer to don the dress as is or dress it up with accessories for a more dramatic look.

The Baker Twins, the dynamic modeling/acting duo who appeared on The Tyra Banks Show, were the next models to showcase fashion designs by Denise Brillion. Shauna Baker sported an asymmetrical sleeveless black top with a unique, long plaid skirt. I loved the long slit in the front, framed with plaid fringe and the print symbols on the skirts.

The outfits from Brillon’s collection were a mix of couture and ready-to-wear apparel, but I found each look a bit too matchy-matchy. The overall styling of each model looked too busy, so subtle details, like accessories, were easily overlooked.

One outfit that stood out was a leather biker jacket with fringe lining the sleeves and back of the jacket, finished with a to-the-floor asymmetrical, plaid skirt. The best accessory on this outfit, of course, was Adam Beach – Canadian actor. He was a great comic relief as he strutted down the runway, arm in arm with the model. When he paused at the end of the runway to take a picture of himself with his cell phone, the audience roared with laughter.

My least favourite pieces in Denise Brillon’s collection were the pastel dresses. A few of these dresses appeared juvenile – more suited for children’s dress-up tea parties. The accents on the belts paired with the dresses lacked fashionable appeal and fell more on the side of children’s arts and crafts.

For more information on Artifaax Productions or Denise Brillon, visit http://www.artifaax.com/.

Words by Elle Nguyen

Photography by Linda Sui Lem

It’s a lofty experience at the new John Fluevog shop conveniently located next to the hub of Fashion Central and across from The Bay. I say lofty because it really is an open and converted building with 3 floors. The main floor is the shop, and soon to come in the lower floor, will be a retrospective to footwear and John Fluevogs work. As for the upper level it will be used as an open space for customers to mingle and for future events. Also, in attendance was Adrian Fluevlog, son of John Fluevog who develops retail stores for the company and was happy to chat and pose for a few photos.

Of Fluevogs 41 years business, the Canadian soleman (pun intend) is delivering some historic footwear along with new creations with the re-launch of a few of his signature styles from the 40^th Anniversary. The anniversary-reissued styles are the Munster worn by Madonna and the Pilgrim inspired from the Victorian era these styles cater a bit more to the eccentric in my mind.

Though those styles might be a bit weird and outrageous for the average shopper there are a variety of more subtle choices that carry the signature Fluevlog style and an array of bags that would easy fit into any wardrobe.

Calgarians will be excited to learn of a new stampede ready boot that will be available in store Monday July 4^th .The style combines the quintessential feel of cowboy boots with the unique and slightly elongated toe of other Fluevog styles.

Not to be dissuaded by all the shoes for ladies, there are many wearable and funky varieties of brogues and boots for men. My personal favorite would be March in Burnt Orange worn by the helpful sales associate Aaron.

The store will have a live stream of the opening at 11am and as one of the first shopper you are being treated to a first look of many style not available online for at least 10 days.

Words and photography by Linda Sui Lem

Zenobia was a powerful Queen married to King Septimius Odaenathus, a warrior, who ruled over the Palmyrene Empire. After her husband died in battle, she raised their two sons, who later became warriors, along with the Empire winning many battles and conquering much territory. She was not the most beautiful of women, but she was strong and confident. This sexy combination of traits is the foundation for the clothing brand Zenobia.

Zenobia is not truly a retail chain. Jackie Hickson, the western Canada sales director who runs the Calgary Loft, gives a brief overview:

“We actually believe in an experience type of shopping as opposed to just going into a mall, so when a client comes into Zenobia, it is typically by private appointment only. A woman comes in, sits, and actually has a consultation with me where I get inside of her head a little bit and find out what her lifestyle is like, what her career path is, how can I be of service to enhance what she already has and how can I better educate her on making the right decision.”

Two collections a year are created by the talented Canadian designer Pina Iannelli. From those pieces, women are able to create their timeless look by having their clothing fit to their specific body type. Measurements are taken and alterations occur in Montréal; as an added bonus, when the garments are sent back, an on-site alterationist tweaks to ensure all is well.

The fall/winter 2011 collection is rich with many textured fabrics and has a luxurious colour palette. Their brandy suede jacket shows sophistication. Silk is the choice of fabric for blouses; the detailing on the front sets each one of them apart. For an Audrey Hepburn look, there is a strawberry red baby alpaca trench coat. Then, of course, there is the famous Armani navy sleeveless dress which is perfect for a night on-the-town or the office when paired with a blazer.

Zenobia is an “all-about-you experience”. Visit them on the upper level of Fashion Central.

Words by Daniela Codreanu

Photography by Paul Spenard

The growth of our Entertainment and Comic Expo has only been five years in the making and has drawn in a doubling crowd at each one. At nearly 30,000 attendees this year, it is no doubt that fandom is a growing culture.

Those waiting in line for hours to get a glimpse of William Shatner would agree that we’ve got something big on our hands.

The Calgary Fashion team was there all day Saturday June 19 to experience the expo. We caught some of the talented fan creations and interviewed our favourite television and movie actors from Stargate SG-1, Babylon 5, and Hellraiser.

Christopher Judge

Fans will recognize Judge from his largest role in Stargate SG-1 or in other series like Andromeda and NCIS: Los Angeles. As a veteran of expos, we spoke to Judge from a different angle uniting the growing popularity of sci-fi in mainstream culture to fashion.

CF: Of all the elaborate costumes you’ve seen what is the one you loved the most?

CJ: There are so many… I’m a guy so I like the Princess Leia’s and all the Zena’s, but there are always a ton of great costumes from every show and movie that you see here. I like going to the costume contests [because] you see all the work that some people have put into their costumes.

CF: Being a veteran of so many expos, is there a big difference between on-set costumes and fan-made costumes?

CJ: You realize the resources costumers have and then you see some that fans have made that are perfect replications of the costumes on TV and film. The fact that most fans don’t have the resources and are able to create those perfect replicas is just amazing.

CF: As this is your first Calgary Expo how does it compare to other cities?

CJ: I didn’t think it would be so big, thinking of Calgary, I thought it would only be a couple hundred people. I had no idea there would be 30,000 people here and it’s really amazing…. The fans are so nice and what’s so nice about coming to Canada is that they are so nice and respectful and it’s just a great environment to be in.

CF: What are some new projects you are working on/are coming up?

CJ: I’ve got a movie called Rehab coming out the 23^rd. I’ve also booked a really huge movie that I can’t say anything about yet, but it will be the biggest product I’ve ever been involved in.

CF: Zombies or Superheroes? Which would you play?

CJ: It’s got to be a superhero, something like Wolverine. He smokes cigars and he’s indestructible!

Ashley Laurence

CF: Out of all the elaborate costumes you’ve seen which one do you like the most?

AL: What I like the most is when people look like they have really thought about their costumes and they have put a lot of effort and awareness into the detail and the colouring and it sort of suits their personality. They are works of art and I’m most impressed with that. I don’t have a favourite because it’s sort of like tattoos and it fits the person and is executed really well and it’s a joy to see.

CF: From the costumes you have worn and seen on set and comparing that with fan costumes, is there a difference?

AL: It depends and there are many people who are very, very talented walking around. The materials are becoming more readily available to people so you do see the quality improve.

CF: What projects are you working on now?

AL: My painting and I’m possibly getting them put into a book, which is really exciting for me. There are also three films that have very different characters that run from alcoholics to surrealist fantasy.

CF: Zombies or superheroes?

AL: Superhero-zombie!

Mira Furlan

Her role as Ambassador Delenn from Babylon 5 is probably where you would recognize her most, but she has also played a leading role in over 25 other films and is a veteran of expos all over the country.

CF: Out of all the elaborate costumes here and in other cities what would you say is your favorite?

MF: My memories are not that impeccable. I couldn’t answer that question by picking a favourite but there was a Spiderman costume today where the person had their face completely covered which I don’t think I could ever do but it’s definitely worth it for some people. I like seeing all the little boys and girls dressed up too.

CF: Are there any projects you are working on or are coming up?

MF: I’m writing a novel right now.

CF: In your opinion do men or women have the best costumes?

MF: I think they are pretty equal.

CF: Over the years attending so many expos have you seen an improvement in the quality of costume fans have made?

MF: I haven’t noticed a lot but with so many technological advancements they must be improving and people can get so much online and on Ebay.

Words by Linda Sui Lem

Photography by Paul Spenard