On March 19 and March 20, four Canadian designers presented their Fall-Winter 2012 collects at the ShOws at the Ritz-Carlton, concept started by Pamela Fullerton for Canadian designers who’ve gone abroad to show back home.  For the Fall-Winter 2012 season, designers presenting were: David Szeto, Ruffian, Jean-Pierre Braganza and Jeremy Laing.  I was able to attend two of the shows: David Szeto on day one and Jean-Pierre Braganza on day two.

David Szeto:

Select looks from David Szeto

Not a lot of colour – very black and slate/charcoal focused, with a smattering of colour and pattern but nonetheless simple, feminine and flattering on most women.  The looks were very simple, flowing, feminine and while not very fall-like at first glance, actually would work well in colder months.  Absolute favourite is the bright blue midi dress, which could very well work on petite women, despite its length.  The fact that it was shown belted means that it can give some women a more hourglass shape, not to mention, brighten up a dark, gloomy winter.

Jean-Pierre Braganza:

Select looks from Jean-Pierre Braganza

Definitely more fashion-forward than David Szeto, especially with cutting and shape. Purples and pinks seem to be the theme in terms of palette (in keeping with the upcoming season), but because of cutting, looks might not be as flattering on many women.  Some of the pieces have detailing that could be a bit overwhelming on the very petite (as in short) as they are a bit on the bulkier side (not to mention shouldering that can make some people look wider). Other pieces area bit form-fitting for certain body types.  However, that isn’t to say that the collection won’t work at all.  There are definitely looks that won’t be too overwhelming, especially if they were paired with the right pieces.

Event in General:

Some goodies from Day 1

Kobe Beef short rib sliders, avocado, hot & sour onion

Like last season,  attendees were in for a treat compared to the hustle and bustle of “official” Toronto Fashion Week.  Though there was a lot of waiting around (what fashion show doesn’t?), we were able to mingle with each other and try some delicious hors d’oeuvres including vegetarian summer rolls, crab cakes and delicious open-faced sliders.  In addition, the P&G Beauty Bar was, once again, there for guests to put together a goody bag.  Products included lipstick, mascara, other toiletries and candy.  As for criticism, there have been a number of blog posts and Tweets mentioning that all four designers picked for The ShOws were male.  While I don’t think there should be a quota system (e.g. one female designer needs to show every season, for example), having a female show would have been nice (as would someone who focuses on “non-standard” sizing, but I think that’s asking too much for the fashion industry).  Like I said in October, I’m definitely looking forward to next season.