Lundi Gras

On the Eve of Alternative Fashion Week, the official count down has begun until the stilettos hit the catwalk. Alternative Fashion Week [FAT] is right around the corner, but FAT’s Michelle Reagan says, “It’s still surreal that it’s so close!”

FAT was launched by Vanja Vasic in 2005, and she seems like this fairy godmother to everyone who I have spoken to, so now I wait in bated breath to interview her post FAT (stay tuned). In its inaugural year, it debuted with (are you ready for this?) 12 designers, 10 visual performance artists, 1 band and 2 DJs. The turn-out was 800 people. This year is showcasing 45 designers, 40 visual performance artists, and 14 musical groups. The expected turn-out this year is four thousand.

Reagan is pleased to know that FAT will be touching this many people, but knows that there is still a misconception that the show is tres avant garde, not mainstream enough, thus shooing away potential attendees. “What some do not understand is that alternative doesn’t mean weird. It can be interpreted as an alternative to L’Oreal Fashion Week or even an alternative to what’s happening in the magazines and what’s really happening in Toronto.  We have really maintained a balance between the really super crazy things and the more, ready to wear collections.”

According to Reagan, this is the first time that FAT is happening over four days, “The response from participants has gone up.” Due to the eclectic mix, the four days have been broken up into four different themes; Home, Planet, Gutter and Beyond. It is without coincidence that Planet falls on Earth Day.

So, far Reagan says, “Things aren’t too crazy. I’m just keeping things organized, trying to keep up with emails and media requests. But, like all shows, there are always last minute things that will come up. But it’s exciting.”

When asked what is the best thing about FAT? Reagan replies, “I’m really looking forward to feeding off everybody’s creative energy. It’s amazing how so many creative minds, from all different artistic backgrounds come together for this event.”

There’s no financial reward at the end of the night, but certainly a reward that has a priceless sense of fulfillment in the four day celebration of art, coming together as each participant’s craft is being given a stage to express on! Bear in mind that these are the artists of the future, who will be changing fashion for all of us.

By: KIM CUACHON