Without a burlap sack or hemp sandal in sight, Toronto managed to produce a totally green runway show this month called Fashion Takes Action. Ten Canadian designers unveiled mini-collections of eco-couture, featuring sustainable fabrics, low-impact dye, and cruelty-free methods of production. The designs were showcased during a runway show and gala which boasted the "lightest eco-footprint possible" and benefited Environmental Defense.
The collections ranged from avant-garde to entirely accessible; three designs were sold at live auction from the runway immediately following the show. Models walked barefoot on a sod runway under LED lights; an open wall behind them displayed the sunset over the lush green belt, and allowed guests to enjoy fresh air. Farley Chatto, Annie Thomson, Thien Lee, Damzels in this Dress, Thieves and Juma were only a few of the designers involved. Each was forced to abide by strict criteria in creating their designs.
It began with Annie Thomson's recycled, almost gothic collection set to grinding, bass-heavy music. Trademark green and black stripes marked this collection, which seemed to play off the apathy and strength of a mainstream green movement. Damzels in this Dress and Thieves offered a more upbeat picture of eco-awareness. Set to remixed hip hop and pop music, the shapes were longer and more playful. The fabric of choice for all of the designers was bamboo; whether brightly coloured in stunning ballgowns from Thien Lee, or in a sleek, stylish
suit from Farley Chatto, the material was immensely versatile in shape, colour, and texture.
The final display of eco-fashion was a soulful, sensual operatic score behind Pat McDonagh's classic white designs. Her pieces featured wide skirts, empire waist lines, and a simple, repeated penguin design. All of the clothing was hand-made, but hers also featured a water-based
design was individually printed with low-impact dyes. The particular care and time that is required for such work makes the collection particularly unique. The signature piece, a white high-waisted, wide skirt with penguins dancing around the hem and load of crinoline
underneath, was sold at auction and will be re-made to size for the highest bidder.
Great care was taken at every stage of the event to ensure its green-ness, including offsetting the entire event with BullFrog Power and CarbonZero. The food was locally grown and organic, served with recyclable plates and cutlery. No electricity was used to style the model's hair, and the stylists chose organic make-up from Aveda. Like the green movement itself, there are aspects of eco-couture that remain far from reach for the general public; a Thien Lee gown sold at the gala for $900 but has a retail value of $6000. And of course, like the flirty designs from League of Lovers and Thieves (already available online) or the LED lights - there are many options already at our fingertips.
Published Green Living Online, October 15 2007
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