This Project Runway Canada alum’s more “casual” line is always a show that I look forward to in Toronto.  Not only are prices more affordable than his “main” line, but the pieces definitely have more use…for the every day woman, anyway.  As usual, the collection is filled with looks that are appropriate for many occasions, whether it be casual, professional or semi-formal.

The upcoming season was, according to a press release, inspired by “the clash of the wild and civilized world” and the designer wanted to “bring together the untouched and untamed beauty of the jungles with the stark order of the world of humanity,” and to do so, the designer contrasted colour from plants and animals with the preppy styles of cable knit sweaters and plaids. Favourite pieces included the teal, purple and grey print dresses as well as the final plaid gown.  Fit-wise, most of the pieces seemed appropriate for a wider range of body types, though some of the skirt lengths are questionable.  At least the pieces looked like they could be easily altered.  I find that many designers, stylists and media alike forget that alterations don’t always work as they fail to realize that proportions can change after hemming.

This show was the first of two presentations by Lucian Matis.  The designer’s namesake evening/couture line will be seen on March 22 off site.