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VFW: Edgy and sophisticated styles marked the fifth day
Friday night was a night of edgy, experimental, and sophisticated styles on the runway at Vancouver Fashion Week.
NOT DEAD YET started the shows with a twist on the grunge aesthetic, designer Adam Lin-Bungag’s signature. The 2018 Nancy Mak Award Winner, showcased oversized sleeves, raw edges, combat boots, hanging chains, and studs. Red and yellow plaid was contrasted with plain black and transparent PVC. Drawn letters spelt out SHAME on the side of sneakers, and printed words on graphic tees hinted to the theme ‘Eulogy’- the understanding that in order to move forward we must acknowledge, understand, and learn from our past.
B.C.’s Anelia Basson of Anelia Art debuted her ,,Explore the Journey” collection for SS19. Each piece was a wearable work of art with unique tribal influences complemented by a simple topknot hairstyle with feathers and beaded accessories. Basson’s colour palette was bright and playful with detailed prints on UV safe and environmentally friendly fabrics. Each garment flowed with the model’s movement which was further highlighted with an interpretive dance that delighted VFW fashion-goers. From versatile dresses to fun swimwear, Basson’s pieces will be sure to instil confidence and capture the individuality of the wearer.
Belgium’s Maxime Edward’s ,,UCHRONISM” collection combined elements of metallics in a display of sporty, theatrical, and edgy looks. With the use of black, silver, bronze, and flashes of teal, Edward finds strength and coexistence in the structured cuts of his pieces and austere aesthetics. Inspired by the vision of the harmonic evolution of the human species, Edward pushes the envelope with his garments in an evocative way; teetering on sobriety and fantasy with each piece prompted by an emboldened view of mankind.
Apparel Magazine, one of New Zealand’s premier fashion publications presented an exciting trio of designers for SS19. First, Christchurch’s Shannon Thompson of Out of Comfort displayed a collection with relaxed silhouettes and immense depth utilising earthy tones and functional accessories like hiking boots and bucket hats. Next up, Auckland’s Doris Lu depicted a feminine strength and confidence in her collection with Japanese-inspired elements, reimagined white dress shirts, and samurai-esq wrap jackets. Finally, Auckland’s Kate Fisher presented electrifying pieces that were gender non-conforming in their presentation. With a mixture of black, white, and red chiffon blouses, and metallic elements scattered throughout, Fisher demonstrated the versatility of her capsule collection. These three New Zealand designers showed their collective strength at Vancouver Fashion Week.
Designer Javier Giron for Spanish based brand JNORIG presented a new kind of ,,Complex Minimalism” refreshing the idea of merging two opposite cultures; the simplicity of Amish lifestyle with the complexity of Indian Tribes. Graphic prints, designed in collaboration with Graphic Designer Barthelemy Vielle, lifted a heavily contrasted palette of black, white, and red. A modern deconstructive feel was expressed through structured jackets, hooded sweaters, and oversized knits with long hanging sleeves. A distinguished look for women- a red collared shirt worn with black ¾ length shorts and long black socks, topped with a black felt hat.
Class, elegance, and timelessness are three words to express the refined collection presented by Australian brand Lena Kasparian. ,,After 5” featured formal wear and cocktail pieces for men and women in an oh so glamorous style. Deep rose pink silk and sequined gowns with couture detailing and luxurious fabrics set an opulent tone for womenswear. For men- chic grey and navy suits, beautifully tailored, were worn with crisp white shirts. A sophisticated collection.
About Vancouver Fashion Week (VFW)
Vancouver Fashion Week is the fastest-growing fashion week in the world and the only industry event that actively seeks out to showcase international award-winning designers from over 25 global fashion capitals. For 31 seasons, VFW has celebrated multiculturalism and up-and- coming designers on their runways. VFW strives to identify undiscovered designers by providing an accessible and internationally-reputable platform. Through international media coverage and cogent buyer connectivity, VFW has provided the exposure to project past designers on to international success.
For more information, please visit:
Vancouver Fashion Week
www.vanfashionweek.com
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Twitter: @vanfashionweek
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Photo: Arun Nevader for Getty Images
