Montreal Designer Denis Gagnon

Originally hailing from Alma Quebec, I am proud to begin by presenting Montreal based designer Denis Gagnon . I shall deem him “most wanted in your closet”. His journey began at College Lasalle, and evolved later to design clothes for movies, advertising and theatre. Working alongside Yso ( another favorite) as an art director back in 1998, a revelation awakened him to create his own collection. He drew attention in the Montreal fanfan scene in 2004, winning the Fashion Export Award for best designer. Best known for his minimalist and monochromatic designs, his garments have fluid lines which evoke sensuality and practicality all in one.

Via: Fashion Magazin Photography by Jimmy Hamelin

Via : Photo © Evelyn Reid

His life did not exclude trouble and trials since he experienced the closing of his store in 2007. However, his drive would not let this stop him.  After disappearing for nearly two years, he is back with a vengeance. We applaud him for his new spring 2010 collection presented at Bonsecours during Montreal’s Fashion week. Gagnon flirts with creativity, sophistication and indulges in modernity making this season’s collection; “the Zipper” a couture centerpiece. Gagnon does not get lost in moodboards but perhaps put his efforts into experimenting with different textures, tones and techniques to lead to his inspiration.  How can I not be charmed by his eccentric Lanvin glasses as he expressed his desire to conquer all of Europe? I would not be stunned by such exploit ! Such talent; that is his creation, are found in upscale stores such as Holt Renfrew in Canada and  New York's Intermix .
                            
Many projects are underway for Denis. We have heard about possible collaborations with Canada’s retail store Bedo to be released in fall-winter 2010-2011. He is to be featured in Montreal’s Musée des Beaux-Arts , which is fitting since his couture exudes what I call modern structural art in its finest and is indeed a perfect fit in a museum.  In addition, working on a DIY (Do it yourself) collection for Canadian shoe retail store Aldo . I will be sure to follow his endeavours and share them with you all. I wish him longevity from season to season.  

Via: Various sites both Denis Gagnon's pic and shoes

Let's Get Started !

Wow, how can I begin my first and long awaited blog? After much anticipation and not knowing quite what to say, I kept this blog empty. Still today, I am trying to find the right way to start this new journey.  Actually, I came to the realization that there is no better way to start but to just do it.  

First, let me introduce myself. My name is Marjorie Joasil. I am a fashion addict from the fashionable city of Montreal in Canada. My international favorites are  Chanel to Alexander McQueen  (the list goes on and on). Locally, I love DSquared2, Denis Gagnon and Pink Tartan just to name a few. Also, my day to day hobbies consist of scanning through international magazines, doing yoga, listening to music, shopping, hunting for vintage fashion items  and cooking.   

Denis Gagnon S/S 2010 via: Photo © Evelyn Reid 

In my city I studied advertising, marketing and business management at both Montreal and HEC university. All the while working in high end fashion retail stores to fuel my love for fashion. During that period, I had served a fashion stylist in the store one day who loved the service and advice I provided, she then left me her business card and asked me to assist her with fashion shoots. At that time I did not know much about styling. Little did I know, it would be what I am doing today and aspiring to do for a long time. 

I had, for a short time, left the fashion industry for schooling to expand my knowledge in other fields.  Later, my passion for details, fashion, music and photography would usher me back in. I started my obsession with anything and everything related to art, advertising and Illustration. It is now my ultimate passion and I just can't let go. 

Also, you may by now have heard of my styling of international actress Christine Solomon. I've known her since 2006, when she first said she loved my sense of style and wanted me to help her put outfits together for events she had to attend. She, on top of being totally amazing, is so much fun to hang out with. I loved putting pieces together specifically for her, my only goal being to make her into a fashion goddess. Shortly after we became friends. She has exquisite taste herself and she is indeed not afraid to try new things. I am and have been so happy to join her on her journey while she strut on red carpets at highly anticipated events, wearing the most stylish and glamorous outfits I put together for her. 

Via : Actress Christine Solomon at the Toronto Film Festival 09 Photo: Malcolm Taylor/Getty Images

I am starting this blog, to showcase my taste in fashion but as well as to share thoughts with you my dear fellow fashionistas. We are indeed a community and having fresh new ideas is a must in order to keep a keen eye on what's going on in our va va voom world. I also have this idea of introducing Canada's finest in terms of fashion to a larger market. There is indeed much talent here. However, this fact will not stop me from sharing my thoughts on new finds and already establish iconic fashion gurus alike, from elsewhere.  

I will do my absolute best to keep you posted on what I do, people I meet and places I go. I truly believe that this is going to be both fun and exciting. I can't wait to get to know you as well ! Leaving comments is an absolute do. However, bashing people sense of style is a complete don’t. I believe that fashion is an extension of your personality. Therefore, being different is in.  Now let's get started ! 

Marjorie xoxo