Malene Grotrian Fall/Winter 2012

I've been following the ascent of Danish-born, Vancouver-based designer Malene Grotrian and her eponymous line since 2009, so you can imagine what a pleasure it was to view her fall/winter 2012 show. Titled "New Heights," the show--which took place at Performance Works on Granville Island--was preceded by a VIP reception at the Dockside restaurant in Granville Island Hotel and promised beautiful clothes and more than a few surprises.

For fall/winter 2012, Grotrian strayed from her tried-and-true formula of bustiers and party skirts and experimented with a more eclectic approach. This collection felt like it was more about pleasing her clientele and satisfying their requests than presenting a cohesive design vision. As a result, I can't say I was a fan of every look that came down the runway that evening. But there were a few standouts. The graphic checker-pane-patterned sheer maxi dress styled over a white slip, black-and-cobalt strapless peplum dress, military-inspired trenches, and black-and-cobalt jersey dress with an adjustable back drape were all highlights.

Aside from presenting her latest collection, New Heights was a chance for Grotrian to announce the launch of her new eponymous magazine, a publication that celebrates the intersection between lifestyle, fashion, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. An electrifying performance by violinist Rosemary Siemens (clad in a custom Grotrian creation) preceded the other big announcement of the evening: Grotrian's new Made to Measure line, which enables clients to commission custom-designed clothes for any occasion. They're both ambitious projects, but as Grotrian has demonstrated by building a successful business and showing at New York Fashion Week in her first three years, she has the determination to tackle anything and succeed.

Photos in this post courtesy of Malene Grotrian.