Toronto Fashion Week: Vawk’s cross-cultural fusion

VAWK Spring 2011. Photography by Jenna Marie Wakani

Sunny Fong drew inspiration for his latest Vawk collection from a collage exhibit by New York-based Kenyan artist Wangechi Mutu that was presented at the AGO earlier this year, so it seemed only fitting that he show at the gallery where it all began. Bright and intimate, the gallery’s Walker Court was the perfect platform for a show that fell somewhere on the map between sun-drenched Spain and the tribal tones of Africa. Intricate lattice work, stylized animal print, body-hugging, sculpted leather, flap patch pockets and a riff on zebra stripes in chiffon ruffles were subtle takes on the theme. The best of this cross-cultural fusion were the luxe-looking, mini croc-print bolero jackets and a stringy, swingy fringe dress done up in ombré berry shades. Our ony gripe? We were nearly lulled to sleep by the soft, continuous tribal beat Muzak.

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