Thursday, May 31, 2012

Introducing Laborde Designs by Kristen Laborde



As the arrival of the AoF Designer Boutique is fast approaching, it’s only right that we give you an inside look at some of the Canadian talent that will be featured at this year’s event. First up, we have exquisite jewelry designer Kristen Laborde.
Kristen Laborde

Canadian-born jewelry designer Kristen Laborde specializes in one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces that are both eclectic and reflective of the season’s latest trends. Drawing inspiration from diverse ethnic backgrounds, this world traveler uses semi-precious stones, metals and beads to craft multifunctional pieces that cater to the needs (and budgets!) of the modern woman.
Kristen, who is always in pursuit of small gem and metal dealers, has traveled to places such as Italy, Chile, Spain, Hong Kong, South Africa, Berlin and most recently, London, for inspiration. It was her time living in London, England that influenced her new architectural lines, which integrate creative combinations of metals and stones that work brilliantly together.
While living in Toronto, her designs were featured in mainstream publications such as Flare, Strut, Canadian Living, Zoomer, The Toronto Star and The National Post. Her pieces have also been photographed on celebrities, and worn by well-respected fashion editors like Zoomer Magazine’s Suzanne Boyd and Elle Magazine publisher Sue Prentice. They’ve even made their debuts in hot music videos! Kristen’s work also includes a partnership with Canadian designers Nada and Jessica Biffi to create a jewelry collection that would compliment their lines for Toronto Fashion Week.
Acknowledging the woman’s desire for individuality in her designs, Kristen challenges her customers to stand out from the crowds and have fun with fashion.
“I like to create a strong piece that can be worn more than one way so that it can change with the mood of my customer.” – Kristen Laborde

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Art of Fashion Designer Boutique 2012


It’s that time again! Art of Fashion is thrilled to announce that due to popular demand, the all-Canadian Designer Boutique will stand as an independent event this year in Toronto.
A fashion mecca for emerging Canadian designers, this year’s boutique will showcase a carefully curated exhibit of original collections by 30+ cutting-edge designers in the Canadian fashion industry, including: Fredrick Prince, Kristen Laborde, Natasha Sakhuja, Vesna Milovanovic and Monique Anderson.
Located at Toronto’s Schwarzkopf Professional ASK Academy, the boutique invites designers of fashion apparel, jewelry and accessories to proudly put their creations on display. AoF recognizes the importance of supporting local Canadian designers and providing them with opportunities to promote and grow their brands.
So, whether you’re an up-and-coming designer, a fashionista, or simply an average Joe/Joanne, the boutique is an ideal place to learn about new trends, see what the Canadian fashion scene has to offer and walk away with stunning Canadian wear. What's more, complimentary seminars by top leaders in fashion will be taking place throughout the day. Here are some must-sees:
·       Style Trends by influential fashion blogger, Lisa Kisber
·       Hair Demonstrations by Schwarzkopf Professional
·       Beauty Product Demonstrations by Soya Boutique
Come buy Canadian and support your local artisans at this year’s Art of Fashion Designer Boutique. We hope you’ll join us for a full day of shopping, food, and fashion inspiration!

Saturday, June 16th 2012 from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Schwarzkopf Professional
ASK Academy
171 John Street, 2nd floor, Toronto
Admission by donation only

Food and beverages available for purchase.