Fashion is a spectator sport and it’s my favourite kind. Between the release of Refinery29’s Style Stalking book and World MasterCard Fashion Week, October was filled with fashion-forward inspiration. October marked my first fashion week experience and it was a privilege to be part of the action.
Until this fall, my fashion show experience was limited to student-run charity fundraisers like OHM at Western. Volunteers invest a lot of time to ensure these shows look professional, so I was curious to see how internationally known artists showcase their collections.
I attended two shows featuring Canadian designers: Christopher Bates (Vancouver) and Malorie Urbanovitch (Edmonton). Both shows offered a glimpse at what to expect next spring in a highly energetic setting.
I felt like guests missed the memo about the desert inspiration for Christopher Bates’ menswear collection, as I was the only person in the audience wearing a beige blazer.
I was fortunate to meet Malorie’s parents while waiting in line and chat with them. Unlike the parents of pageant contestants or child actors who are stereotypically portrayed in pop culture, Bernie and Bob were calm and collected. Their daughter’s show was executed flawlessly and they were understandably proud.
Fashion week would’ve been incomplete without a pop-up shop. That’s where Diet Coke stepped in. Diet Coke partnered with Gilt to create an inviting space in the same spot where IKEA once hosted one of their own. Their collection of red, white and black clothing naturally caught my eye and made me rethink how I can style red jeans.
Though I was surprised to discover how short each fashion show lasted, I enjoyed every minute of my fashion week experience. Even standing in line was a prime people watching opportunity and I seized the opportunity to take mental notes.
Visit worldmastercardfashionweek.com for more photos and information.