The highlight of the fall runway collections last month was definitely Zoolander and Hansel’s surprise face-off on the Valentino catwalk – sitting at the very end of the runway allowed me the best vantage point, and Instagram shot, of my fashion life. The crowd’s delight was phenomenal, especially when nary a person will whoop it up these days, hands busy with iPhones. It proved yet again that fashion is a cult of personalities. Over the course of my career, I’ve met hundreds of fascinating, eccentric, fiercely intelligent and brilliantly witty, not to mention talented, folk. I remember my first encounter with Christian Lacroix, a god in the fashion universe – he never disappoints with stories and inspiration. And that’s what this issue is all about – it’s a celebration of the fashion industry’s finest. Bright young designers, entrepreneurs, jewellery maestros, Oscar-winning costume designers, creative directors steering mega-brands, and much more – you’ll find our fourth issue is teeming with captivating characters.
We sent Camilla Morton to meet Sandy Powell, the costume designer behind Disney’s new Cinderella, and we delve into the world of the Swiss luxury brand Bally, as it enters a new era under the watchful eye of creative director Pablo Coppola. Another rebirth is happening at Mugler, where Jessica Bumpus finds out why David Koma was born to lead the brand. And while I’ve not yet snuck back into flares, I am excited to see that the Canadian tuxedo remains an essential wardrobe staple this season. The debate as to whether trends still exist in fashion rages on, but we have tried to distill some favourite themes for you to be inspired by. Perhaps most enticing is our exploration of the growing (and critical) desire for getting in shape. We spotlight three activewear brands that will make you want to go to the gym just to wear their pieces. Get me to my spin class!
And of course, as ever, you can scan every single page in this issue using our fashion scan app. Wherever you see the bright pink Play button, behind it is a film waiting to be unlocked. Read about Zara Martin’s beauty regime, then watch her create her signature cat’s-eye flick, or take a virtual step into fashion editor Paula Goldstein Di Principe’s wardrobe. Plus, you can use the fashion scan app on other magazines and ads to unlock their digital content. Enjoy!
Caroline Issa
Portrait by Morgan O'Donovan