Last night I attended Vancouver Community College Fashion Design Grad Show at the Rocky Mountain Stationeer. I went as a guest of Peggy Morrison and with the lovely ladies of Blanche Macdonald teaching staff (my former instructors). The venue was great, just as last year. First, we hit the portfolios; grabbing my attention was Quito Quinn’s portfolio. The illustrations were done on transparent sheets which overlay a Warshack Test-esque ink blot, together the two filled in a beautiful representation of her collection. Another stand out amongst the portfolios was Blake Hyland. His portfolio had a raw vintage feel; exquisite use of torn lines, newsprint, and positive and negative space. My personal favorite touch of his portfolio was the swatch presentation; vintage slide photos on a ring. Many of the portfolios were incredibly executed and we enjoyed looking through them all.
The show started with the strongest collection. Blake Hyland’s menswear collection truly was filled with character and history. The fashion-recycle designer told an edgy story of stressed leathers, zippers, clasps, & chains. Hyland was most deserving of his Outstanding Merit in Design Award.
Nicole Mergaert’s collection was impeccable with draping, asymmetry and architectural shapes. As well as braided and tangled fringe details kept the collection cohesive and flowing.
The monochromatic collection of Quito Quinn had a lot to live up to, anticipation began with the viewing of her portfolio. She most definatly hit it. Loved LOVED the leather vest with the draped fringe back. Great pieces including a cape style coat, chunky, chunky knits and a fabulous over-sized cardigan with button all the way from the back down the front. (great idea!)
Closing the show was Robynne Redgrave McPherson and her collection had a great silhouette. Draped and flowy with great lacing detail.
With that said, for the most point many collections were a bit of a let down. I felt as if many collections could have been showed 2 or 3 years ago and would have fit better into the trends. We have seen it before. Worse yet were the tired collections, that if it weren’t for my notes would have been completely forgotten. You will have to step it up grads with competition like Blake Hyland, who, like I explained, stole the show.
Video is from Vancouver21.com
Awards
Gabriel Levy Scholarship: Nicole Obidowski
Significant Advancement in Design: Robynne Redgrave McPherson
Outstanding Merit in Design: Blake Hyland
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