Day one: In Grand Style

Question: Has spring already passed me by? With the weather at a balmy 10 degrees and a cream Burberry duster coat sweetly whispering “spring” in my ear, I am already thinking about the new collections and knitwear for Fall 2007. On the (stilettoed) heels of the fall international collections in Milan and Paris, Toronto’s L’Oreal Fashion Week has officially begun with all of its fanfare, fashionistas and fabulousness.

I arrive with my FASHIONable team at the Holt Renfrew media cocktail event around 5:30 p.m. After air kisses and angling for glasses of bubbly, the packed room of editors, buyers, stylists and stylish scenesters is welcomed by the Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC) committee. Although, entre nous, many eyes are darting to the designer candy seen around the room—a Burberry Manor bag here, a YSL metallic Downtown tote there.

With a mini Holt’s swag bag in hand, we head over to the Liberty Grand at the Exhibition Place, also known as home for the week. After the initial crush to get to our seats, we are ready for the runway….

9 p.m. Mackage

The designer duo from Montreal debuted their fall lineup of coats, vests and knitwear. Known for their outstanding outerwear (perfect for any Canadian snow bunny), they didn’t disappoint the fashion flock this season either. Models were sent down the runway in high-collared wool peacoats in cream, navy and chocolate. Paired with leggings and ankle booties, it is definitely a “sea-worthy” look for fall.

Mackage is the master of detail: the pleated back of a coat, a ruched belt, a fur-trimmed hood or an asymmetrical zipper—all get high style points from the FASHION team. Black bobs reminiscent of Louise Brooks were styled straight and sleek. Smoky grey eyes and light, glossy lips completed the modern minimal look. FASHION gave the gold star of the night to the rich chocolate brown leather jacket—simply perfecto. Harley-Davidson and bad boy not included.

Until my next jottings, my lovelies…

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