…collaborated together in celebration of Liz Bell models & artists being featured in the newest issue of Z!NK magazine.

…had the label’s signature “H” as the zipper-pull and was embellished with rhinestones and contemporary designs.

From updos, to long tousled hair, to sleek bob cuts, the stylists at Suki’s can do them all. Most notably was the use of hair pieces and extensions to enhance the models, transforming their look into an almost space-like creation. Pre-made accessories were inserted into the hair, creating thicker texture, higher volume and more intricate hair styles. The audience came for a show, and a performance was what they got. Burlesque dancers came on stage with extravagant headpieces. Shortly after, models dressed in fashion outfits made completely out of paper walked across the stage, one with fiery red hair which contrasted the whiteness of her paper outfit.

Keep on reading for photos and video footage from the event!

…full-length party dresses adorned with flashy jewels and sequins.

It’s that time of the year again. And with a website name like “Modern Mix Vancouver”, it’s only appropriate that we cover the 9th annual Vancouver Fashion Week, which takes place at Storyeum. The opening gala last night at Leone (757 West Hastings Street) featured a melange of fashionable designers, models, media and photographers.

A widespread range of chocolates by Daniel was available for sampling, wine was served in the back corner of the spacious venue, and jewelry and accessories were displayed on glass counter tops as members of the fashion industry mingled and networked throughout the evening. Keep on reading for show schedules, designer highlights, a photography gallery as well as a discount coupon for VFW.

Although the entire graduating class displayed a sense of originality, I noticed three reappearing trends in the midst of their diversity:

1. The “sweetheart” shaped and strapless necklines which portrays a feminine look of glamor by accentuating the neck and shoulders.

2. Corsette-style, criss-crossing lace-ups. These appeared on the front and back of tops as well as more subtly on short-sleeved blouses.

3. Parallel columns of buttons, big and small. Similar to the buttons on double-breasted winter coats but on tops instead.

The graduating Fashion Designers from The Art Institute of Vancouver’s Fashion Design & Merchandising program will be showcasing their designs at La Musique.

The Lav & Kush Fall 2008 Fashion Show at Heritage Hall (3102 Main Street) was a great preview to its autumn collection. As the models paced briskly down the catwalk, with a single peacock feather adorning their hair, the loose-fitting and comfortable pieces from Lav & Kush flowed down the runway. The colors were generally solid, dark blocks but with a hint of subtle playfulness; the occasional ruffle, pleat or pocket makes the look less ordinary.