WMCFW Fall 2014 Day 2 Recap: Melissa Nepton, David Dixon and more

On the second day at the tents at World Mastercard Fashion Week, I managed to catch several shows including the menswear at Thomas Balint, the winning duo of the Mercedes-Benz Start-Up: Matiere Noire and Malorie Urbanovitch, Montrealer Melissa Nepton and last, but certainly not least, David Dixon premiering his new White Label, a collaboration with the soon-to-be-launched, Kleinfeld at Hudson’s Bay.

Thomas Balint sent models down the runway in androgynous, simple looks. The models layered up their button downs and drapey tees with jackets and blazers for their second look. A token girl pulled off the look effortlessly with clunky shoes and knee-highs. The collection was monochrome and Balint played with proportions. One model wore a suit jacket several sizes to big, while another had a short shrunken jacket.

The third installment of the Mercedes-Benz Start-Up had a twist ending when it was announced that two designers tied to win the prize to show at fashion week. This show had the challenge of creating separate atmospheres for both designers, which I think they pulled off. Matiere Noire kicked off the show with mannequins standing on risers on the runways as guests took their seats. The collection consisted of pieces inspired by space, as the label’s name (dark matter), suggests. I liked the pops of cobalt and lunar sweatshirts. Fashion is having a moment flirting with alchemy and space, and this collection hit the nail on the head.

After a two minute intermission to remove the risers, Edmonton native, Malorie Urbanovitch presented a collection full of cozy, chunky knits and dramatic 1970s-inspired long coats. I loved the fold-over skirts and the heavy materials she used in this collection.

Melissa Nepton’s collection was a feminine and ladylike presentation with a beautiful use of atheletic details, fur accessories, butterfly motifs and knitwear. I adored the closing butterfly gown, worn by Canadian up-and-coming supermodel, Dauphine McKee.

Lastly, David Dixon closed the second night of WMCFW with a stunning bridal collection for Kleinfeld, launching this spring at Hudson’s Bay. I loved how he created unexpected iterations of bridal wear, including a blush-pink pantsuit, a voluminous silk cape and showstopping lace pants. I had the chance to chat with Dixon after the show, and he said wanted to create something for a bride that likes to be spontaneous, but is still confident in herself and her style. Think of the bride who invites family and friends for an impromptu Bahamas wedding.

I’ll have an interview with Dixon posted soon, and keep checking back for more coverage from all of the shows.