My VIP Fashion Week Experience + Mini Interview with Rachel Sin!

Fall Fashion Week in Toronto was quite an exciting time for me. Along with attending some interesting presentations (HELLO Star Wars Fashion Show !!!) – I got to take part in a fun collaboration with Rachel Sin and Redken.

Dress: Rachel Sin Zipper Dress / Bag: Vintage Chanel (similar) / Heels: Merona (similar) / Jewelry: Katherine Karambelas

The first part of this collaboration was borrowing a Rachel Sin dress to wear to her show. I chose the Zipper Dress in Navy. I loved the rich colour and structured ponte material – it felt so sleek and elegant.

The second step was a VIP hair experience – I had my hair styled backstage alongside the models. The Redken team was super talented and efficient – at one point I had 3 people working on my hair!

Using a combination of Pillow Proof dry shampoo and hairspray, they coaxed my hair into feminine curls contrasted with edgy braids – the same style that the Rachel Sin models would be wearing during the show. I took home the Redken products that were used in my hair – and I’m determined to replicate these loose curls at home!

The third part of the collaboration was FRONT ROW tickets to the Rachel Sin show! This was my first time sitting front row at Fashion Week – it felt SO special having a seat with my name on it! The show was amazing – the clothes…the music…the overall energetic vibe – I loved every minute of it. For a sneak peek of the experience, check out this insta-video I made.

Above are my favourite outfits from the show. I love the classic blazer worn with the mesh cut-out skirt – such a modern twist on a classic outfit. The coral dresses – one with a scalloped neckline and the other with draping and lace inserts seem like essential holiday wear. As for the navy dress with the cut-out midriff…while I’d never be brave enough to wear it myself, I love the combination of structure and sensuality.

I’ve been a fan of Rachel Sin ever since I wore one of her dresses to Spring Fashion Week. Her background in architecture is evident in the amazing cut of her dresses – they drape the body perfectly.  So the most exciting part of the collaboration for me, was the chance to interview Rachel Sin backstage right after watching her show! Here are the 5 questions I asked her:

1) The foundation of your design is through architecture – is there an architectural piece in particular that inspires you?
Well I really like the architect Mies van der Rohe. He’s very modern but classic at the same time, and it’s all about the detail. And I think for my pieces, it’s also about the details. But the fabric and the structure just stands on its own.

2) I’ve read you use a lot of ponte fabric because of the architectural and structured nature of it. It’s also a very forgiving material to wear as well – have you ever thought about doing a maternity range?
Maybe when I get pregnant but probably not now! Ponte is great for the working woman as well – it’s something you can wear all day, and it can take you from day to night.

3) Who were your style role models growing up?
I don’t think I really have any! You’re always taking a little of everything and creating your own style.

4) Do you think the popularity of fast fashion has affected your customer base at all?
For sure it affects everyone, but I don’t think you can compare my clothing to fast fashion because it’s way different. The quality is very different and even the designs are something you don’t see in these fast fashion stores.

5) My last question is about beauty because I love learning beauty secrets! Do you have a must-have skincare or makeup product?
I use Hourglass foundation – I have really oily skin and it’s a very good foundation for that.

I was inspired by how Rachel doesn’t have any style role models – but instead creates the style that she wants to see! The fast fashion question is one that intrigues me – because as a style blogger, I see a lot of bloggers investing in handbags and shoes – but opting for ZARA or H&M for their outfit (I’m very guilty of this as well!). With fast fashion, you spend less and can keep changing up your look. But it’s also true that you can’t get the quality or attention to detail that you’d get with a timeless designer piece.

Where do you fall on the fast fashion/designer spectrum? Do you invest in clothing or handbags/shoes?

Check out Rachel Sin’s Online Boutique here.

Linking up with More Pieces of Me and Sincerely Jenna Marie