Henry Apparel debuts at Vancouver Fashion Week
Urban chic meets sustainability in progressive new womens wear line
Henry Apparel, an exciting new brand based in Calgary, Alberta, debuts its 2012 spring collection at Vancouver Fashion Week on November 3rd, 2011. Part of the Emerging Designer category , Henry Apparels youthful Spring 2012 womens wear is designed by newcomer Lisa McLeod.
The collection promises a pallet of lush tones and a fashionable amount of black. Featuring a generous amount of luxurious and sustainable bamboo/cotton jersey, Henry Apparel conjures up images of fluttering black butterflies released into a fog-laden forest: earthy, dark and sumptuously inviting. Soft, fluttery tops are paired with sleek, tailored bottoms, creating a simple balance mirrored by silhouettes found in nature; an aesthetic McLeod describes as an urban forest. The warm hues create a feeling of comfort and casualness. Pops of black, studs, and funky French lace give the line a chic urban feel.
According to McLeod, her collection fills a void in the market.
I want to provide women with a line that is comfortable and yet still fashion forward. I see many women wearing their athletic wear on the streets, out to dinner, etc., but no matter how great the fit or color may be, it still looks undeniably like athletic wear. Thats fine if the clothes are worn in the right setting, but lets face, often they are not, and it just looks kind of awkward, says McLeod, a graduate of the Fashion Design program at the Art Institute of Vancouver.
There are some standout pieces, including signature reconstructed leggings that have uniquely flattering lines, subtly accentuating all the right curves. Also noteworthy are the cropped military style jackets with peek-a-boo tails that lend a touch of Victorian style.
McLeod is committed to producing 100% Canadian-made and designed apparel.
So often we find out that our favorite Canadian brands are slowly outsourcing to other countries due to cheaper costs and often in the end cheaper quality garmentsit makes me sad to hear that people in the garment and textile industries in Canada are losing their jobs and I want to be a part of the solution, not the problem. If I can employ even a dozen Canadian workers, help to grow local retailers and provide my customers with quality garments, then I am accomplishing my mission.
McLeod sources her bamboo/cotton fabric from a Vancouver supplier in order to use sustainable textiles in a more eco-conscious way.
McLeod is passionate about inspiring women to feel beautiful and confidant through clothing, saying that she hopes to make a difference in her customers lives.
I know the absolute confidence that can come from wearing clothing that flatters and accentuates your body now matter what size you areI dont want women to hide their curves but celebrate them.
Come out to VFW on Thursday, November 3rd and watch Henry Apparel emerge as a butterfly on the Canadian fashion scene. Be sure to check out ihearthenryapparel.com and the brands Facebook page!
