Mark Your Calendars: Comme des Garçons at H&M (November 13, 2008)

November 4, 2008 – Following in the footsteps of Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney and Viktor & Rolf, Rei Kawakubo has partnered with H&M to design an exclusive line under the Comme des Garçons label for the retail giant.

Whether designers lend out their names under licensing agreements or co-brand with retailers, the transaction is nothing but profitable. These deals operate on a simple principal: high turnover + (comparatively) lower margins = $. Unlike their ready-to-wear lines that discriminate against those who can’t afford them, these deals make their aesthetics more accessible and democratic to the discerning masses. In fact, Karl Lagerfeld’s line sold out within the day – now that’s turnover.

Fashion Music

November 2, 2008 – Ever wondered what the fashion industry is listening to? I kept a note of some of the standout beats that were played on and off the runway during Montreal and Toronto Fashion Week.

Chromeo – Needy Girl (heard at the Gsus Sindustries show)
Data – Rapture (heard at the Travis Taddeo show) *See Video Below
Kylie Minogue – 2 Hearts (heard at the Envers par Yves Jean Lacasse show)
Hercules and Love Affair – Blind (heard at the Montreal Fashion Week After-Party)
Inner City – Good Life (heard at the Montreal Fashion Week After Party)

Buffalo by David Bitton: Toronto Fashion Week

November 2, 2008 – This season marked David Bitton’s first time presenting at Toronto Fashion Week. True to its aesthetic, Buffalo by David Bitton moved into Spring 2009 with a nod to rock glam for her and collegiate prep - à la Brit Pop style - for him. One look backstage revealed some key items for next season - for her: ultra-slim denim done in a range of pastels, cropped-sleeve blazers paired over black sheered tanks and driving gloves; for him: oxfords done in plaids and madras prints, cardigans and a pair of nerdy eyeglasses to top off the look.