On par with trends hitting catwalks in Europe, black and crisp white had a definite presence at T.O. Fashion week. But between the tailoring, detail and bright accents, rest assured, fashionistas, spring 2010 is shaping up to be anything but “Bland!”

(from left) David Dixon, Pink Tartan, Pink Tartan, Joe Fresh

Canary Yellows and bright purply-blue hues dominated early in the week, and David Dixon’s ‘Hanging Gardens of Babylon’ inspired show was no exception.  Kicking things off by proving there’s nothing like a fabulous cocktail dress, Dixon stuck to the wearable (perfectly tailored cropped jackets, romantic maxi dresses, and knee length skirts), but stopped the show with some eye-catching aluminum fringe.  

Wednesday was the day of the true ‘Power Couple’ as both Kimberley Newport-Mimran (Pink Tartan) and husband Joe Mimran (of Joe Fresh) took center stage.  Pink Tartan modernized the ‘nautical’ look of horizontal stripes and wide-leg trousers, and proved that the shimmering shine of the sequin and the exposed zipper are definitely here to stay, as is the redefined 80’s shoulder pad!  The Strong Confident woman was a definite theme, and I must say I can’t wait to get my hands on this collection!

Evan Biddell (far left), NADA

Excitement was definitely in the air come Thursday, as Project Runway Canada season one winner Evan Biddell started off the night in style.  Full of playful lengths and necklines, Biddell’s wearable AND flattering collection kept with his signature style (the hood) but mixed in gorgeous draping, billowing pants and a lot of glam.  The look was shiny black, lightening up a little in the end and closing with a show stopping Red-Orange cape-like frock.

If anyone ever doubts Canada’s place in the glamorous world of fashion, we have one word for you: “NADA”.  Putting on a show that could hold it’s own on the most prestigious runways of Paris and Milan, designer Nada’s collection was full of romance, intrigue and drama staged to the beat of music that put a smile on everyone’s face.  Big black puffy gowns (à la Marie Antoinette) and body forming black lace cocktail dresses graduated into lighter flowing pastel colored fabrics and subtle floral prints.  The show was full of exaggeration and fabulous pearl accessories – Très magnifique!

Lucian Matis

Earthy tones, raw edges and 3/4-length dresses dominated Lucian Matis’ closing night show.  He played a bit with sequins, metallics and the exposed zipper (all of which excite me) but as the models walked in a zombielike state to the end of the runway wearing headdresses that looked like they were choking them, dare I say it was a distraction that left me feeling a bit uncomfortable.  But hey – fashion is pain, right?

Pat McDonagh

With her fearless yet whimsical collection, the fun with fashion award must go to Pat McDonagh.  Starting off the show with a collection of rich chocolate brown looks, the mood soon turned colorful.  Every dress a different bright hue, shape and pattern, Pat kept things exciting, creative and completely wearable.  My personal favorite was her floor length powder blue sequin gown that literally dropped jaws in the crowd.  She played with everything from military to hippie chic all leading up to the first standing “O” of the week!  Well done, Pat McDonagh!

by Katie Coristine
all pictures by Katie Coristine