Preparing for The Clothing Show was a whirlwind of pattern drafting, fabric shopping and putting together a selection of accessories for my booth. I created some new clutch purses, pouches and semi-precious gem stone bracelets. I also presented a small clothing collection which I have named Eclectic Bohemian Minimalism. I featured an eclectic collection of accessories with a bohemian feel and my clothing pieces were quite minimalist.
Clutch with Vintage Car Print with Vintage Zip
I photographed this car while on vacation.
When I first started designing clothing I was heavy on detail. For this phase, I was more interested in minimalist pieces which set as a base for more eclectic accessories. As I continue to build on my drafted patterns, I will incorporate more detail for a variation of stylized garments.
Clutch with Vintage Floral Fabric
This show was a challenge for me to start pattern drafting again and rebuild my block patterns within 2 weeks. My mission was to have a rack of garments to start off my new phase in clothing design. I am looking forward to my upcoming patterns that I will put together for future shows and events.
Leopard Clutch
In a way, The Clothing Show was a motivation to get in touch with a part of my creative side that I had archived until the right moment. This was a perfect time to revisit my pattern drafting skills and add to the variety in my collection. As I build my collection, my designs are evolving as I prepare for each event.
Sharon Dawn
I designed this dress for the local designer mannequin display at the front door entrance.
This leopard dress is a simple style with a velvet cummerbund with zips at the sides. This piece is stylish and elegant with a hint of retro sophistication. It represents my fusion of design history, my love of vintage and costume.
Most of my recent garments are a play with colour, minimalism and comfort. I like to mix various accessories to compliment basics.
This clutch is made with a beautiful textured fabric.
This pouch and clutch includes some of my hand knit fabrications.
This striped tunic top can be belted and worn with jeans. You may also wear this tunic as a dress. The scarf is cotton and the necklace is made with semi-precious gem stones.
Maelle
I met many great vendors showcasing their wares. Above are designs by My Johansson-Ganjoo for her line called Maelle.
My was born in Sweden and she is currently living in Toronto designing dresses and skirts. Her designs are one-of-a-kind or limited edition. Her garments are made with vintage fabrics, buttons and customized bias tape.
Check out her website for more information and her online boutique.
My also has a fascinating Blog named Creative Accomplishments featuring a fresh take on vintage and her journey with design.
Mrs. Huizenga
Mrs. Huizenga featured a variety of vintage items from their boutiques on Roncesvalles and Keele Street.
Judy Black
Judy Black features a vibrant array of Clothing, Accessories and Home Decor.
The Judy Black line includes whimsical designs and colours that pop.
Paper Snake
Paper Snake Jewellery includes a variety of clever designs such as a variety of earrings, necklaces and bracelets made with silver, crystals and semi-precious gem stones.
Allison Wells sells her work at a variety of places including the culturally vibrant Kensington Market.
Morganna the White & The Postart Collective
Morganna the White enjoys using recycled materials including buttons. She is part of the Postart Collective along with Michelle Potter. Morganna is from Ottawa and she enjoys creating recycled textile fashions and artwork.
Morganna's work is very textured and colourful. She enjoys treasure hunting in antique stores and thift shops for buttons.
You can check out her blogspot at the below link.
Atelier L.A.F.
It was really great meeting Laura Floyd at the show. Laura and her brother Andrew collaberate to make exquisite artisanal jewellery. They create in Montreal under the name Atelier L.A.F.
Their collections include a unique variety of earrings and necklaces.
Alexandra Rae
Alexandra Rae creates various leather accessories.
She also creates these detailed copper jewellery pieces.
If you are interested in viewing her work or purchasing an item at a variety of locations, you may contact her at her email.
flightlessfish@gmail.com
Sweetie Box Studios
Amy Smania designs unique one-of-a-kind couture jewellery. She has a rich history of making jewellery and being creative.
She creates a variety of necklaces, earrings and bracelets which have loads of personality. Check out her site for a peak at her catalog and for more information.
Retro G Couture
British Designer Georgie featured her very stylish and richly designed collection.
Her booth was filled to the brim with beautifully detailed designs for those who appreciate the play of fabric, contrast of details and dashing boldness.
Her work is imaginative and is reminiscent of fairy tales, historical costume and rock'n roll legends.
Georgie has dressed celebrities such as Aerosmith's Steve Tyler, Colin & Justin, Stevie Nicks, Cyndi Lauper & Margaret Trudeau.
Photos: Sharon Dawn