VFW FW 2010: Red Jade

Some time ago, I read an amusing column in the Globe & Mail about "Streep syndrome." Streep syndrome is when someone performs well so consistently that people come to expect great things from that person all the time; subsequent outstanding work is therefore underappreciated. (The cheeky name that the columnist gave this phenomenon comes from actress Meryl Streep, who has been nominated for an Oscar 16 times and only won twice.)

This is the third Red Jade show I've had the privilege of seeing, and based on my cumulative impressions of designer Margarita Angelatos's chic eco-friendly label, she runs the danger of suffering from Streep syndrome herself. Her collections are just too good.



Similar to her previous collection, it was the details of each piece that captivated me. A carefully constructed sleeve puff folded in on itself at the arm opening. Rows of buttons large and small marched up the neck of a turtleneck dress or down the front of a funnel-necked frock. A skinny belt looped through a high-waisted trouser in matching fabric provided just the right amount of contrast.



Other inter-collection consistencies were apparent as well. As always, luxe natural materials such as hemp, organic cotton, silk, and merino wool were used. The clothes struck a fine balance between structured, tailored elegance and flowy draping silhouettes. The colour palette was restricted to gray and black with a touch of blue.



However, it was interesting to see Angelatos experiment with innovative techniques. On a couple of dresses, what appeared to be a typical bubble hem was, upon closer examination, squarish boxy seams reminiscent of the corners of fitted mattress sheets. The effect was one of architectural quirkiness.



On a side note, the clothes were perfectly styled alongside chunky square-link necklaces and carved wood accessories by Lemon Park. Kudos to Red Jade for putting on a great show and proving that eco fashion can be interesting, innovative, and sophisticated. Here's hoping Angelatos enjoys more future successes (minus the Streep syndrome).

All runway photos by Wayne Mah.

P.S. Don't forget about my Sex and the City tour tickets giveaway! Remember that the tickets don't expire, so even if you're thinking about going to New York you should go for it. Click here for the full rules and to enter. Good luck!