Fashion Week follies

Andy Thê-Anh, the professional woman’s favourite designer, threw a huge bash for the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation, with performances by the province’s top actresses (Anne-Marie Cadieux, Suzanne Clement and the delicious Karine Vanasse), and electro-violinist Dr. Draw. The collection was pure Thê-Anh, but with a touch of Belgian-style simplicity. The sheer black skirts were worn with asymmetrical tailored jackets; the usual rosettes and ruffles gave way to tiny embellished brooches and graphic costume jewellery. We love the fluid jerseys, the transparency and the sheer beige tops with pleated flowers.

Helmer, another highly anticipated show, was full of surprises but also disappointments. The inspiration: Afrikana, New Orleans-style. Think bold colourful prints, lace, and the ladies of jazz. Yes, the oversized printed cape is funky, but how wearable is it? What about the long white dress with shredded cotton? We love Joseph Helmer’s creativity and colours, but maybe a touch of rigor could help his brand flourish.

Everyone’s favourite show, of course, was Denis Gagnon’s not-so-dark collection of draped jersey dresses (à la Demeulemeester), gorgeous fine leather tunics with braids or torsades, black tulle and shiny PVC details. The stunning pieces included a short jersey number in red and fuchsia, a black dress with a huge bow, and Harakiri’s breathtaking jewellery: bold plastic necklaces and bracelets with spikes, feathers or chunky beads. Rock on, Denis!

Shown: DENIS GAGNON Spring 2009. Photography by Jimmy Hamelin

Read more from Montreal Fashion Week and the rest of the Spring 2009 collections.