L'Oreal Fashion Week is known for showcasing up and coming Canadian designers, but for Spring 2009 the FDCC went for a veteran's approach to kick-off the week. The granddaddy in an industry of fresh faces out of design school - Alfred Sung has been in Canadian fashion for over 35 years and was proclaimed the "New King of Fashion" by MacLean's in 1983. Showing his bridal collection at Nathan Phillips Square, just down the street from his home - he really has come full circle.

The White Collection by: Alfred Sung
Something for everyone - Mr. Sung began the show with ethereal gowns and empire waistlines, definitely a modern interpretation of a timeless classic. As the show continued, strapless and more body conscious dresses emerged. All of the silhouettes were less voluminous than expected (a nice surprise) - adding to the weightless aesthetic. His expertise was evident in the details: the placement of buttons, to the use of beadwork and lace in the bodice and trains of his gowns. As the models were walking I could imagine Alfred working - selecting bolts of transparent chiffons and georgettes to create that final, perfect dress. Yet still, a small part of me wanted someone to streak down the runway, having participated in one too many perfect weddings; was it wrong that I was thinking half of all marriages end in divorce?

Mr. Sung doing some post show interviews/congratulatory kisses from well-wishers and business partners (Joe Mimran has worked with Alfred since 1979 and founded Club Monaco together in 1985).

Desperately Different by: Katya Revenko
The opener for the new Studio Runway at L'Oreal Fashion Week - Katya Revenko definitely created a collection that is accessible, wearable and still luxurious. A relaxed sportswear collection with lots of draping, transparency and spot on trends for Spring 2009 - perfect for a 20something running around downtown Toronto (it doesn't hurt none of the prices were over $250CAD either!). Natural and easy with a bit of edge, her collection was a little bit Derek Lam and a little bit Ferragamo (the lame for after dark). The key looks had shout-outs to some 2009's biggest upcoming trends, giving a little bit of love to each - makeup colours, dhoti pants, transparency, jumpsuits and an organic approach (inspired by the documentary film Water).

Posted and Photographs by JACQUIE LEE