Eco Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011: Nicole Bridger

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream...or at least that was what came to mind while watching models sashay down the catwalk dressed in Nicole Bridger's spring/summer 2011 designs. Compared to the minimalist and neutral-heavy collections of seasons past, Bridger's latest offerings exuded a warm, jubilant, and downright summery mood. Perhaps it's the addition of sweet yet saturated colours reminiscent of sorbets, macarons, and gelato to her usual neutral palette. What a difference colour makes.




Although the use of colour was unusual, the construction and draping techniques used in the collection were quintessentially Bridger. Trust me when I say that these runway photos make her clothes look deceptively simple. You have to see them in person to appreciate how an inverted drape on a dress can add volume in an unusual way, or how one panel of jersey is flipped, tucked, and sewn into place to create a unique drape. Bridger cut her design teeth interning for Vivienne Westwood (whom she credits for her current love of draping and working with fabric) and her skills are on full display here.



My favourites from this collection were all in cornflower blue or peachy coral. They're ladylike yet sophisticated, minimal yet constructed with details that make you look twice. And the colour is just so eye-catching.





Of course, aside from the sweet confections above, Bridger also did dresses and separates in neutrals that would integrate well with any wardrobe.



It's been a big year for Bridger. Aside from cementing her status as one of the most prominent designers in Vancouver, she also received the inaugural FTA Design Award from Fashion Takes Action, an organization that recognizes and rewards eco designers for their efforts to make fashion more sustainable. Her prize included a spot in the Ethical Fashion Preview at New York Fashion Week. Congratulations Nicole!

All photos in this post by Wayne Mah.