The Greta Constantine show is arguably the most highly anticipated of each Fashion Week season in Toronto. This year, the label’s designers, Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong, opted to unveil their latest work at the Arcadian Loft.
The intimate venue featured an L-shaped runway and drew many notables — including singer Jully Black, actress Sarah Gadon and Post City’s fashion columnist, Jeanne Beker — in addition to a bevy of leggy socialites. Though the show ran late, guests were entertained with vodka-based beverages, keeping the mood buoyant. As the lights dimmed and the first models stormed out, the window blinds along one wall were raised to reveal the city’s skyline, which became an extension of the show.
Known for their jersey draping, Wong and Pickersgill pushed themselves beyond their comfort zone for this collection, with noteworthy results. While draping was still featured, a stricter silhouette was also present; waists were cinched and shoulders were emphasized, with each look easy to envision off the runway. Styled with a dramatic black eye (that worked better on some models than others), the Greta woman was powerfully seductive, demanding attention but not hogging the spotlight. The palette was sophisticated: the first half of the show featured deep jewel tones; the second was a series of black looks, often accented with white.
Memorable looks included a draped one-sleeved gown in a deep teal, and a mini black frock that incorporated a harness into the bodice. A white dress featured cutouts at the waist and hugged the body just so; it appeared demure from the front, but revealed a beautifully cut open back, and was a favourite on the night.
The post-show excitement was palpable and most of the audience was in agreement: the collection was exceptional.
