[FAT] is a four-day event of fashion, photography, and music. In its fourth year, [FAT] is filled with exhibits varying from 50s glam to environmental challenges to post-apocalyptic fashion. This year’s event is broken into 4 different themes: home, planet, gutter, and beyond. With something for every person, [FAT] is the perfect showcase of up-and-coming designers.
By Kerry Freek
Photos by Donna Endacott
Apparently, the planet (last night’s [FAT] theme) can be described in one word: leggings. With the exception of Amanda Rose’s dusty glamour lingerie and Romandin’s capped cocktail dresses, rarely did we glimpse a bare thigh or calf. Most notable legwear awards go to Cherry Blossom, whose eye-catching tattered-and-torns made us want to break out razors and shred up our own tights on the spot.
Okay, it wasn’t just about leggings.
Zuzanium’s animal-print gymnasts paved the way for shimmery greys and matte black paired with impressionist patterns to create a sexy yet comfortable look, hugging materials that didn’t seem like they’d pinch in all the wrong places. A sculpted skirt, pant and top theme gave a parachute effect without going so far as to suggest MC Hammer.
David C. Wigley’s Worth, clearly a fan-favourite, flattered every shape of his models, who looked cool, calm and put-together in whites, blacks and greys. Especially stunning: a strapless black mini-dress with ruffle-bustle detail, paired with a matching layered ruffled capelet. I must explain these ruffles to you. They were the lasagna noodles of ruffles. Not frilly, not overdone. Limp and cool. Of course, the ensemble was complemented by wicked-awesome hosiery.
Amanda Rose’s sporty-yet-country theme worked out. Even better were her stellar song choices. I’d be surprised if she didn’t use them as the inspiration for her entire collection. Do you know how much we love the theme from True Blood? So much. Her women, both clothed and in lingerie, were totally the subject of Chris Isaak’s song “Baby Did a Bad, Bad Thing” (also used in the show). Seemed like Tumbleweed Town’s girl-next-door grew up, but managed to keep her secret pinup girl identity a secret. Very naughty indeed!
Then things got political—well, not like PETA-political. Think subtle hints (without references to the seal hunt). The second and third of the three Rs got some play from Cristina Sabaiduc’s Romandin, including her show-stopping (probably rug-hooked) gown, a throwback to grandma and a stunning piece overall. We left before the third segment, but I’m sure Paper People got in on that enviro-action, too. Organic cotton, anyone?
We did, however, catch the finale of act two. Deadly Nightshades, a Toronto-based design collective, put on a spectacular show in the theme of urban transportation and mischief: bikes! Do these guys know how to steal hearts, or what? How can I describe.. let’s see. Sweaty Betty’s meets hip hop loungewear meets dandyhorse? Daaaamn. (We especially loved the turquoise briefs—can you tell?)
On a final note, one thing I love about [FAT] is that these “alternative” designers aren’t afraid to dress for all body types. A great deal of booty, bosom and bounce mixed freely amongst your average twiggy, tall types, and everyone seemed confident and ferocious. Terrific night, terrific event. Get out there and experience it yourself-there are still two days remaining!
Toronto Alternative Arts and Fashion Week is running April 21-24, 2009 in the Distillery District.
Awww… thanks for coming, Kerry!!! Love the description of the collection!!! xoxo!
The coverage is incredible on FAT!! Thanks Mondo!
V