Ottawa Fashion Week S/S 2013: Designer submissions now being accepted

The next season of Ottawa Fashion Week is approaching and with that designer submissions to show case the S/S 2013 collections are underway...

"Ottawa Fashion Week has opened designer registration for its Spring/Summer 2013 collections and runway segments are filling up fast with top Canadian designers. The event takes place October 11^th - 14^th, 2012, with an exciting venue announcement to be made next week.

Ottawa Fashion Week strives to present a fashion extravaganza that celebrates diversity and multiculturalism, attracting Canadian and International designers. To further enhance the experience, OFW showcases local and national artists and musicians by way of performances between collections and incorporating art throughout the event.

Past designers have included well-known names such as Simon Ekrelius, David McCaffrey, Birds of North America, !NU.I by Vickie, Sukhoo Sukhoo, Amanda Emmanuel, Turbine Fashion, Rachel Sin, Andrew Nyguen and Edit by Jeanne Beker to name but a few."

So, if you're a designer, what are you waiting for?

Post-show catch up with Rachel Sin at Ottawa Fashion Week F/W 2012

Interview by: Amber Watkins

When did you start designing professionally?:
The brand was born in 2009.

You have been a regular designer to show at Ottawa Fashion Week, why do you pick Ottawa?:The brand was born in Ottawa.  I’m always excited to come back and reconnect with talented people in the industry.

Where did your inspiration come from with this collection?
Reminiscent of the fashions from a Pedro Almodovar film creation, Rachel Sin FW 2012 is darkly romantic defining today’s modern style – an appealing contradiction of strength and vulnerability.

The Almodovar protagonist, a.k.a Penelope Cruz, inspired a mood board with rich materials including textured lace, faux-fur and shimmering sequins. A feminine neutral toned colour palette consisting of camel, charcoal gray and peach nude elevate the contemporary expression of the collection.  True to Rachel Sin’s structured design talents, FW2012 is a stunning compilation of work to evening dresses, fall suiting separates, fitted skirts, sequined dinner pants, and a form-fitting blazer accented on the breast with faux-fur.   Cut-outs, sheer lace, and a falling back-line are distinctive of Rachel Sin’s sophisticate yet sexy design approach and are incorporated into many of the collections pieces.

What do you look for (aside from a good walk) when casting a model for your show?:
I typically look for a model that is a specific measurement, not too tall or too skinny.  A model must have some shape to make clothes look good.  I also look for confidence and a natural beauty.

Do you look back and see a difference in your collections?:
Fashion is wonderful, because every season you get to reinvent yourself and say something different.  It’s taken a couple seasons for any designer to develop their own style aesthetic.  Focusing on clothing that is wearable, I’ve learned the importance of choosing the right fabric and finding the right fit.  After 6 seasons, I definitely see a more coherent collection and a collection that has more selling power , because there is something for everyone.

Can you give us any hints as to what you might have in store for us next?:
I unfortunately can't! We just finished this collection, so we still need to start planning the next one

Check out more at www.rachelsin.com

photo: Elliot Mak

2nd annual Fashion For Funds in Ottawa

Last year Fashion for Funds brought together some great Ottawa Talent and raised thousands of dollars for charity. This year, they are at it again!

All proceeds from the show go directly to Roger's House, an Ottawa children's hospice that supports and houses children and their families affected by terminal illnesses.

The fashion show lineup includes Jana Hanzel & Emilia Torabi Fashion Design Studio, Amber Watkins, Demu Label, and Khala Morgan, all local Ottawa talent out to show their support!

Tickets can be purchased at the door for students and or e-mail fashionforfunds@gmail.com
10$ - Students
20$ - Adults

Sunday January 22nd 2012, Glebe Community Centre, 1:00pm-2:30pm