FASHION at CIFF: Calgary Film Fest director gets red carpet ready at Mealan
This week marks the opening of the Calgary International Film Festival (calgaryfilm.com) and ten days of premiere-hopping and socializing with the stars.
Taking time out from her busy gig as executive director for CIFF, Jacqueline Dupuis shared with me a few of her style secrets that take her from day to night over ten days and approximately one hundred and eighty eight films. Rule number one was enlisting the help of a stylist, Leah Van Loon.
“My stylist complains I don’t dress up enough,” says Dupuis “ but working in the arts allows me to get away with a lot more casual. Also I need to be able to mix practical pieces for day with something truly glam for night.”
With Dupuis comfort is also a consideration when getting dressed. “The events are high pressure enough without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction,” she laughs. “Of course I want to look good but I have to factor in ease of movement into the equation.” With this constant in mind the two chose Calgary’s Mealan (1518 4th St. SW, 403-457-4020) for festival ensembles. Christened after owner and stylist Mealan Mezzarobba this hot spot carries a wide mix of exclusives, such as ladylike dresses from one of Dupuis’s favourite designers, New York’s Susana Monaco.
For Thursday’s gala screening and red carpet sashay for Crackie, a drama set in Newfoundland, Dupuis and Van Loon chose a jewel-toned emerald green cocktail dress by Postella and paired it with gold Christian Louboutin pumps. Classic, but with a twist.
Although Dupuis likes to keep things simple by doing her own hair and make-up, for the first time, she’s letting sponsor Diva Hair Salon (divalsalonspa.com) primp her tresses and give her makeup a touch up. “It’s a fun part of the festival to be able to do a little red carpet chic,” says Dupuis. “But in reality you can come in whatever inspires you for the evening, whether it be a pair of jeans or a tuxedo.”
FASHION‘s Alberta reporter, Karen Ashbee, will be reporting from this year’s Calgary International Film Festival. Check back here for updates!
EARLIER: Magical Mealan
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