In its latest iteration, Vancouver Fashion Week proved once again why it remains a highly anticipated 6-day industry event. Showcasing the latest collections from both local talents and international designers, this season’s spectacle underscored the global allure of fashion. With its dynamic displays and commitment to diversity, creativity, and innovation, VFW epitomized style while solidifying Vancouver’s status as a premier destination for fashion aficionados worldwide.
Let’s take a moment to revisit the highlights of the opening day.
SOLIT
The first designer draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of everyday life in Tokyo. With a special focus on inclusivity, meticulously selected garments create an empowering energy through the blending of classic design elements and messaging. The models, each with their own identities and struggles, reflect the theme of embracing one’s true self and celebrating uniqueness.
This collection by Misaki Tanaka represents a cause close to her heart. As a person with mental disabilities herself, she has been a significant advocate for those navigating the world with disabilities. Consequently, the goal of SOLIT is for everyone to feel seen, heard, and valued.
MERNINI
Based in St. John’s, this company unveiled a captivating collection aimed at making waves in the Canadian outerwear market. Rooted in a region characterized by fog, rain, and relentless wind, the brand, MERNINI, has earned recognition for its distinctive craftsmanship and emphasis on style and color. Their raincoats effortlessly blend traditional aesthetics with contemporary detailing.
The brand’s founder, Maria Haifyard, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2020 with a vision to craft pieces that not only elevate but also protect any outfit.
MEIHANA
For their 2024 F/W season release titled “COME AND GO,” the MEIHANA collection channels the essence of transient moments with a theme centered around the constant flux of people. Across all ages, individuals traversing the streets carry their own unique thoughts and emotions. This concept is translated into garments that are equally accessible to all yet possess a distinct individuality.
Moreover, the brand embraces the practice of upcycling fabrics deeply ingrained in Japanese culture since ancient times. This is a tribute to the diverse patterns found in children’s Kimono garments, which have left a lasting impression on the designer. By unraveling, dyeing, and repairing old fabrics, she breathes new life into them, seamlessly blending them with unique patterns to create fresh pieces.
HAZIHAUS
HAZI HAUS proudly unveils its inaugural women’s ready-to-wear collection. Originating from Taiwan and conceptualized in Canada, “inner Child Ambrosia” epitomizes luxury streetwear, embracing the essence of unfiltered self-expression. By juxtaposing traditionally exaggerated masculine silhouettes against the female form, the designer champions liberation from societal constraints, embodying a fusion of feminine street couture.
The collection showcases garments crafted from delicate materials such as high-sheen satin, exquisite metallic fibers, and rugged raw denim.
Lexi Chang dedicates this collection as an homage to her youthful spirit while delving into the complexities of adulthood. A whimsical adolescence intersects with a sobering monochromatic palette symbolizing maturity. The intentional absence of color reflects the weight of responsibility that comes with age. However, within the subtle intricacies lies bursts of color, beckoning the observer to delve deeper. Each garment and its narrative serve as catalysts for introspection.
AHBLO
AHBLO Knitwear stands as a local treasure, epitomizing sustainable luxury by exclusively crafting each creation from natural fibers. Their commitment to honoring the seamless fusion of modern feminine and masculine elements resonates deeply within the community. Each piece exudes unparalleled versatility, warmth, and sophistication.
Celebrated for their remarkable softness and resilience, the fabrics used by AHBLO Knitwear embody a sense of timeless elegance.
The “Alpaca Allure Collection” by Raquel Grebler Quesne draws inspiration from the laid-back and effortless lifestyle of the West Coast. Designed to transition seamlessly from urban settings to tranquil moments by the ocean, these pieces encapsulate the essence of coastal living.
With a steadfast dedication to ethical elegance, AHBLO Knitwear ensures that their garments not only adorn the wearer but also speak to them on a profound, personal level.
ANK BY AMRIT KAUR
The Indian label ANK BY AMRIT KAUR unveils a vibrant and stylish travel-wear collection. Embracing a palette of bold and bright colors, with a predominant use of gold and silver accents, their designs exude multi-color aesthetics.
Their captivating ensembles feature the innovative use of mesh materials and intricate drapery techniques.
Let’s delve into the styles featured on the second day.
COLORFUL BOUTIQUE MORE
Hailing from Japan, COLORFUL BOUTIQUE MORE seamlessly blends “Colorful, Retro, Pop” aesthetics with traditional Kimono textiles. Their philosophy centers on the belief that fashion is a celebration of personal style. The collection’s theme, “Magic of Color,” radiates a vibrant essence, making a bold statement with its bright patterns.
Designer Modoka More established her brand as a vintage shop specializing in 60s/70s fashion in 2009. With certifications in kimono dressing and a passion for antique kimono collection, she infuses her designs with elements of tradition. A key focus of hers lies in making antique kimonos more accessible globally. Through the incorporation of ethnic costumes into fashion, the brand aims to bring joy to all.
AVA GRUFT
Originating from Vancouver, this brand challenges conventional clothing norms by blending delicate fabrication with industrial elements, offering an alternative perspective on women’s fashion and redefining femininity.
Ava Gruft’s debut collection caters to the modern woman, featuring a fusion of silks, wool, and leather that construct a subversive aesthetic. The focus on contemporary silhouettes is evident in garments that sculpt the body with flowing lines and exaggerated shapes. What sets this collection apart is its unique detailing, whether it’s spray painting lace onto silk charmeuse or incorporating garter belts into tailored suits. Drawing inspiration from her experience working in a lingerie factory, the designer found potential in discarded decals, fueling her creativity.
BAHAR KIANPOUR
Presented by Vancouver-based fashion designer BAHAR KIANPOUR, the “Forgotten Poet” collection showcases elegant clothing that evokes a whimsical charm, transporting wearers to a dreamlike realm. Utilizing flowing fabrics and intricate detailing, their creations captivate the imagination, striking a delicate balance between light and dark.
With intentional use of props such as umbrellas and teddy bears on the runway, the collection unfolds as a true fairytale for the audience. For the designer, fashion serves as a medium for storytelling, weaving narratives that enchant and inspire.
LUCE WEAR
LUCE WEAR, a premium brand renowned for its cool and exclusive outfit sets, caters to individuals seeking versatile attire for any occasion. The “A La Casse” collection unveiled a plethora of trendy and distinctive looks, incorporating upcycled materials such as crumpled wool, silk, silver velvet, and tweed. Some garments feature motifs inspired by industrial work, adding a unique touch to the collection. Each outfit is meticulously handcrafted using the finest deadstocks sourced from prestigious fashion houses.
Furthermore, the brand emphasizes the use of organic fabrics, particularly French terry, in crafting its iconic tracksuits.
Launched in 2022 by Luce Tardit, this ready-to-wear streetwear French brand draws inspiration from a childhood photograph evoking memories of cars piled up and crushed in a junkyard of clothes. The collection’s aesthetic revolves around this imagery, with bright red, blue, and silver hues dominating to showcase Tardit’s universe.
BIBACLOTHIER
Designer Mutairu Abibat captivates audiences with her bespoke haute couture creations. Hailing from Kamloops, British Columbia, BIBACLOTHIER makes its mark at Vancouver Fashion Week. The “Diverfigure” collection celebrates the female form, catering to women who embrace their figures and exude confidence. Inspired by independent and hardworking women striving to be the best version of themselves, the collection resonates with empowerment.
Throughout the showcase, a vibrant array of colors such as green, brown, red, and pink adorns multicolored fabrics. The collection features a mix of luxurious materials including mikado, silk, and customized balik brocade.
In addition to haute couture pieces, BIBACLOTHIER also offers ready-to-wear options for everyday wear, catering to the diverse needs of their clientele.
SASHEZEINO
Local brands take center stage, with Vancouver-based brand SASHEZEINO catering to the bold and artistic individual through their innovative designs. Operating as a concept atelier and fashion studio, they prioritize responsibly made fashion in small batches, diverging from the conventional fast-fashion paradigm. Each piece boasts special and heartfelt details, such as hand embroideries reminiscent of wearable art.
Sadaf Zeinoddini spearheads the “Aracoe” collection for this season, with a vision to redefine luxury fashion. The collection seamlessly blends traditional artistry with modern aesthetics while maintaining a minimal harmful footprint on the planet and its inhabitants.
Functional fashion meets a commitment to sustainable luxury in SASHEZEINO’s ethos. The collection showcases stunning looks, primarily focusing on effortless fashion pieces that strike the perfect balance between comfort and style.
SMOULDY
The latest collection from SMOULDY exudes a strong vintage-inspired aesthetic. Drawing from the vibrant styles of the 60s and 80s, it encapsulates a sense of fun and fashion, offering a fresh interpretation of classic looks tailored for the new generation.
Many of the designs within the collection are crafted from scrap fabric, reflecting the brand’s dedication to sustainability. SMOULDY ingeniously repurposes waste from the marine textile industry, incorporating materials such as vinyl and faux leather in a patchwork style.
Based in Vancouver, designer Stephanie Mould takes pride in ensuring that each piece is unique, tailored to the individual wearer.
MACU MACU
The “Nature Pop” collection, curated by MACU MACU, pays homage to the breathtaking landscapes abundant in natural beauty. Residing in a house nestled amidst Japan’s largest lake, the designer finds herself surrounded by a tapestry of creatures and flowers amidst lush greenery. Drawing inspiration from this serene environment, she seeks to capture the natural flows and patterns that evoke a sense of harmony.
With the “Nature Pop” showcase, the designer aims to craft dresses that exude joy and liberation, encouraging wearers to prioritize their own happiness over external judgments. Erica Kumahora, the creative mind behind the collection, honed her sewing skills from a young age, and her innate talent shines through in each meticulously crafted garment.
Featuring vibrant colors and captivating tulle fabrics, the custom-made costumes are designed to captivate attention and evoke a sense of whimsy and delight.
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