Apologies for not getting this up sooner everyone!
The third edition of
Generation Next took centre stage at
BCFW last Thursday. In front of a packed house, this season’s finalists presented three distinct mini-collections in their bid for the title of
Generation Next Designer Spring/Summer 2009.
Opening the show were Jenny Yen and Tabitha Savoie from
Two of Hearts. The duo’s eco-friendly collection was sporty, urban, and colourful. They had some interesting screen printed pieces; I quite liked the butterfly design on the yellow tunic top. My favourite look was probably the menswear inspired sleeveless shirtdress. The collection had a very young aesthetic overall, perhaps a little too young for my personal taste. I much preferred their 1970s-inspired fall collection, which Lisa talked to Jenny and Tabitha about in an earlier
post.
Next up were Michelle Lee and Garry Favell for Joseph and Elizabeth. The colour palette for this collection was generally limited to black and white, with hints of cream and grey. There was a definite sophistication to the pieces, from the more professional looks to the final full-length gown. Personally, and possibly because I don’t wear suits or evening gowns often, I had more of an affinity for the casual pieces. I loved the cropped motorcycle jacket and what I read as a variation on the tuxedo (little black vest over a cream handkerchief top, paired with black cigarette pants). I would’ve loved to see a more vibrant palette, but then again I love colour more than most people!
Rounding out the finalists was
Red Jade designer Margarita Angelatos. The intro set this collection apart slightly - creating a unique mood with the runway awash in red lighting. The first look struck me as a bit boho-schoolgirl… but in the best possible way. There was a quirky quality to Margarita’s pieces that I really appreciated, and it didn’t take away from the femininity of the garments. I also liked the sculpted collars on both the belted, beige shift and the brown trench coat. There was a combination of casual fluidity and architecturally-inspired detailing that I found appealing. The tailoring may not have been quite as well-executed as that of
Joseph and Elizabeth, but this was the definitely the collection after my heart.
After deliberation, the judges revealed their pick as
Generation Next Designer S/S 2009:
Margarita Angelatos of Red Jade!
Afterwards, I got the chance to speak to and congratulate Margarita. Having beaten out some tough competition for the top prize, Margarita said she was truly honoured by the result. Red Jade, comprised of eco-friendly natural fabrics, draws upon her love of European styling. Margarita also expressed her desire to create clothing that is sophisticated and feminine, while also being sexy and edgy.
Some other interesting tidbits about Margarita: her all-time fashion icon is
Audrey Hepburn, she’s very much inspired by the work of
Alexander McQueen, and she used to teach a fashion school design class prior to launching her line.
Keep an eye out for
Red Jade,
Two of Hearts, and
Joseph and Elizabeth!
All photos Shallom, except 6th and last (mine)
