TFW diary: Welcome back, Arthur Mendonça

After declaring bankruptcy in a recessionary-steeped 2008, Toronto designer Arthur Mendonça is back, and talk about a triumphant return. “I knew I always wanted to be in fashion and then this opportunity presented itself with a new manufacturer here in Toronto and, why not?” Held at the Trump International, the show opened to the beat of a remixed “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie. Models took to the runway with high-gloss, high-drama slicked-back hair and dark red lips accentuated by poignant silver and gold hardware by jeweller Dean Davidson. The ’70s remain an intoxicating presence for fall 2011, and Mendonça is clearly under the influence. Slinky ruched column dresses, Le Smoking-style tuxedo blazers and flowing chiffon evening capes were paired with floppy fedoras (think Marianne Faithfull) and turbans, the latest in It headpieces. As with most things, the beauty was in the details. Black coyote and goat hair collars, exposed zipper accents, ostrich feather wedges and exquisite beading all make this collection require a second (third, fourth, fifth) look. And nothing says “I’m back” like a shocking purple tuxedo pant.

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