Wednesday may have been just another grey and gloomy day in Toronto, but under the L’Oreal Fashionweek tent it was a day and night of clear vision, luxury and whimsical creation…a true escape.

Jeanne Beker may be the most popular fashion reporter of Fashionweek, but on Wednesday she was there in a different lead role. At the Diesel Kids premiere she launched her new book Passion for Fashion. Jeanne has partnered up with Bratz in an attempt to target a new young fashion loving bunch—Bratz doll aficionadas…or should we say afashionadas? Bratz is debuting their new fashion reporter doll named Jeanne B which comes with a copy of Passion for Fashion. The Diesel Kids show was darling and filled to the brim with some of the most adorable models in the most charming fashions with an enthusiastic and supportive audience cheering them on. It was a great show to see and Jeanne Beker was absolutely radiant.

One of my other favourite shows of the day was Comrags. The fall collection was rich with tweed suits and trench coats, antique brooches and fox fur trimmings with a very classic 1940's inspiration. Exaggerated collars pinned with antique brooches were stunning and timeless. Fur trimmings on the shoulders and necklines produced an ultra luxurious look. Overall this show was truly exceptional.


The final show of the night for me was Andy The-Anh. This show made my entire day! This show included glamorous coats in lavish fabrics with large collars, gowns with gorgeous accessories such as large shawls, long black leather opera-style gloves, wide leather belts and large dangly necklaces. Here are some of the shots I was able to get from this show.

If I had to summarize Wednesday’s shows in two words they would be luxurious and timeless. These shows have inspired me to add a tweed, large collared trench jacket to my list of must-haves for Fall 2008. In my opinion, each season it is worth splurging on one classic wardrobe piece, especially a jacket. A jacket is the first fashion item people see upon your arrival…and a great jacket can give you full license to go low maintenance on your wardrobe that day, without sacrificing your style.

These shows have also inspired me to keep an eye out for antique brooches next time I’m shopping vintage. Brooches can be added to hats, shawls, scarves, dresses or even the forearm of an opera-style glove for a chic and unique focal point.

There is only one day left of L’Oreal Fashionweek, so stay tuned for the final rundown from the runway!