November 29, 2007

L'Oreal Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2008

The slogan for the spring/summer 2008 edition of L'Oreal Fashionweek, held in late October, may have been the rhetorical "who are you wearing?" but the answer to "what are you wearing" was a lot easier to discern with a simple glance at most attendees – a smile.

Without a doubt, this most recent edition of the Toronto shows was the best outing of Canadian fashion under the current producers, the Fashion Design Council of Canada. From the fabulously convenient tented location at Nathan Phillips Square, in the heart of the city, to the timely, consistent shows, to even the little details that make those covering the shows content and favorable – separate media entry to the runway room, plenty of food in the media lounge – the week flew by beautifully.

And the mood on the runway reflected this upbeat, spirited mood of the audience. Clean, crisp white was the choice of many designers, and it looked most fresh paired with fluorescent shades of fuchsia, lime, orange, yellow and violet. The shade took a more classic turn when paired with safari khaki, black, and even hits of sky blue and silver.

Regardless of color combination, the overall fashion feel of the week was young, sophisticated and girlish. Dresses conquered all collections, whether they were simple shifts or structured strapless styles, and skirts were full and airy, despite sitting high on the waist. The waist was also a focal point for pants – the few pairs shown also sat high on the waist, with a wide (and often cuffed) leg, continuing the a silhouette that started to reveal itself last season. Small shoulders, tiny waist, and wide legs and skirts, make for a leggy, glamorous look – especially when rendered in satin or drifting chiffon, which many designers chose.

It is safe to say that the recent look of elaborate clothing is over – spring 2008 is not about how intricate an item is, but rather how well it is cut and how it fits the body. Sleeves and waistlines were the only places where adornment was allowed; a simple ruffled cuff, an obi-style belt, and it’s no coincidence that many designers chose clear Lucite bangles and beads as the accessories of choice.

In the end, the notion of keeping it simple – and pleasurable – ruled the Toronto runways. Some designers chose the riotous route, with joyful mishmashes of color and design, while other designers went for a calming, minimal route that was confidently content. Regardless of which trend women choose this spring, a smile will surely be their perpetual accessory.