Archive for March, 2010

Mar
31

Here are some front row seats :) … too bad they cut out all the acrobatics!  Nonetheless here is what is in store (literally) this fall at the KL Boutique…

Enjoy!

xox

Mar
30

There is something so surreal about the perspective of a little girl… untainted, pure and imaginative.  Anything is possible when your mind considers the possibility of dragons, fairies and mermaids existing.  Where you can wear butterflies as gowns, sit on toadstools in your backyard and adorn your hair with magical flowers… So why when we grow up do we seem so intent on pushing all that “nonsense” to the side?  At what point does the average individual decide that it is all only make believe and holds no importance anymore in their lives?  Was it the first time our hearts were broken?  The first time we were betrayed?  Or maybe just the first time we all realized that life is not always as it seems…

Either way, allowing inevitable life mishaps get in the way of your hopes, dreams and beliefs is unacceptable.  While we may no longer be able to live entirely in our fantasy lands, I’m not so sure we realize just how valuable they are to keep.  The moment you let go of the “impossible” (which I have learned doesn’t really exist – nothing these days is truly impossible), is the moment you allow yourself to walk down the road of bitterness and spite.  Pick up a book, daydream, wear color, apply that crazy hot pink shade of lipstick you’ve been swooning over, ask your prince charming out on a date… whatever it takes!  Life is truly what you make of it, and if you get to choose the whole time… well it just doesn’t seem to make sense that you would choose to let go of what brings you to life!

Reality and responsibility seem to go hand in hand… and that is the number one reason why I love creativity and the clothing Katrin continuously creates.  It brings you into her world.  A complete escape.  A world where you can have lunch in a flower sitting beside a bee, or share tea with a caterpillar (think Alice in Wonderland).  Her clothes inspire so much imagination in others and at some point the creativity just becomes flat out contagious!  I have worked in her boutique and two things have always remained constant from the clients and visitors.  First, everyone who walks in for the first time is continuously in awe.  There is so much to take in.  So much craziness, artistry, textures and themes… you almost don’t know where to look first (I mean geez… there are even umbrellas and birdcage lighting fixtures suspended from the ceiling!).  Secondly (and most importantly) is the overall attitude of the Katrin Leblond customer – they’re happy.  Happy, inspired, original and passionate people who feed off the positive vibes that come through every piece of clothing and employee from the KL universe.  At first I thought I might have been surrounded by a bunch of looney optimists… but then I realized that it is just the environment that people love to escape to.  Somewhere where their dreams come back to life  and visualizations are supported and fed.  A place where they can leave doubts, negativity and the hardships of everyday life at the doorstep and enter a safe haven full of little girls paper dolls and flowers…

… but of course for big girls…

Never stop dreaming, learning or chasing what inspires you.  It is one of the few reasons why we are actually on the planet, so please… find yours and make good use of it!

xox

Paper creations courtesy of Hope and Joy Studio

Mar
29

Montreal Formal balls and weddings are in the air… and Katrin is in full preparation to making everyone’s fairy princess dreams a reality with her beautiful gowns and two piece formal attire :) .  Have an event?  Katrin makes custom one of a kind wedding, bridesmaid and prom dresses.  Make an appointment with Kat and see your dream dress materialize right in front of your eyes!

Kitty supervises swatch sampling…

Hope your week is off to a lovely start!

xox

Mar
27

Ever wonder what happens to those unusable strips of excess fabric?  While many clothing companies may just toss them in the trash, Katrin and her team turn them into the beautiful signature KL Scarfette!

What in the world is a Scarfette you ask?

Scarfettes are some of the most playful and fun accessories you can wear around your neck, in your hair, on your favorite handbag, clipped into a brooch… really wherever you desire a little splash of color and excitement!  The best thing is that since they are studio scraps you can match them to some of your favorite KL staples…  bring out the print in your party skirt with a similar color Scarfette headband!

Here is Hannah merrowing the Scarfettes in fun thread color combos!  No two Scarfettes are alike!

Giving lost fabric new lives… Vote Scarfette!

Have a beautiful weekend!

xox

Mar
26

A studio is a creative space where you must feel safe and free to flourish.  Katrin’s studio is exactly that – a sanctuary where you can let your mind free… to create, to love to master… here is a look at the studio’s inspiration board, some of the artwork found in the office and the sayings and motivation that keep the positivity factor high and booming!

Have a beautiful Friday!

xox

Mar
25

Tuesday morning was rainy, icy and cold… pouring freezing rain here in the 514… the kind of day where you wake up and just want to pull the duvet up and around you and snuggle in even more…

While the outside world was unwelcoming, I journeyed to the Katrin Leblond studio for the warm and creative shelter you seek when everything around you feels bleak and gray.  A haven where you are surrounded by colors, sunny people… a place where things make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside while being right at home.  That is exactly how the studio feels to me – a welcome retreat that holds familiar sights, sounds, memories and thoughts.  I say this as I started at the Katrin Leblond studio as an intern many moons ago and worked there for about a year.  I know the inner workings and daily rituals that make this place such a calm and imaginative mecca.

There are many unconventional habits that make this place unique.  Maybe it’s the fact that you can chose to work with or without shoes on, or that recycling both paper and fabrics is an absolute… maybe it’s that a cat may occasionally cross your path, that Paul Simon tracks are adored and played on repeat, that paper weights are stones from far away travels or coffee is offered upon 9am arrival… just little things that make work days inspiring, less stressful and thought provoking.

There is a small team behind the Katrin Leblond brand.  Ladies who are completely devoted to making the most beautiful, quality individual pieces for the world to own, love and enjoy.  There are no set rules or itineraries for the construction of a skirt, dress or shirt – Swatches are picked and matched according to vote of what the team feels is aesthetically pleasing to each of their individual styles.  It really is a beautiful process as although the team is headed by Kat, everyone’s opinion counts and goes into the construction process.  Every garment is made completely by hand from start to finish by these few people.  They see that all details, appliques and trims are properly applied with care and precision – this is harder than it looks folks!

Thread in the KL studio is not only used to sew garments together… it is an embellishment in itself!  Doubled up thread creates the beautiful vine designs and quilted look that is so popular with so many of Katrin’s creations.  This is all done by sewing machine, but the work, time and precision required to get the desired effect can prove to be quite a challenge!  Another beautiful aspect of these colorful spools?  They are all bought locally.

Patterns are all made by hand and graded old school style – no computer program or printing.  I think that was one of my favorite things about working in the studio, as I find too much on-computer design can distract from the craft of creating something from scratch with your own two hands.  Very rewarding and a great form of instant gratification!

Recognize this piece? :)

I am just as excited about these new buttons as Kat is.  Just close your eyes for a minute (after reading this of course) and imagine a sweater sleeve trimmed with real pressed flowers set in resin.  Magical!

These will really make something incredibly special!

Ahhhhh… the scrapbook!  The collages of beauty and inspiration all plastered into two books… the holy bible if you want to get a bit into Katrin’s design mind!  I have abducted these from the studio for scanning and will be posting them sometime next week… stay tuned for the unlocking of these sacred anthologies!

I’m not sure if it’s the color contrast or just because I made an extension cord look so damn cool, but I really adore this pic!

Kitty!

The lovely Katharina adding leaf ribbon trim to skirts.

Beads, sequins and various trinkets are never out of the question when Kat creates… everything, no matter how big or small eventually finds its true home.

The lady of the hour…

Oh if only you could see the entire fabric collection that Katrin houses underneath the cutting table!  Polka dots, silk chiffons, vivid prints, intruging textures and forms… it really is a playground for the mind.  Another tidbit of good news… the fabric is local too!  The best part I haven’t even mentioned yet though…

… nothing is wasted!  Every scrap finds residency in this big excess fabric bin (big and small pieces) and is eventually used to create rosettes, fleurettes, scarfettes and adornments for the boutique, studio and clothing.  Love it… so eco-chic!

Of course here and there if you pay close attention you will notice a tutu peeking out from a shelf, drawer or rolling rack… hidden ballerinas all around…

Morning snacks!

Hope you enjoyed this mini photo tour of the KL studio… hang tight, more in-studio activity to come… alongside an exclusive look around Katrin’s home!

Have a beautiful day!

xox

Mar
24

Fashion shows are vibrant, beautiful and fun recreations of the designers all-so vivid imagination.  What I always find intriguing is the entire thought process of building a collection.  How did someone get from point A to B?  What inspired them?  How were palettes and color combos dreamt up?  Here are Katrin’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection palettes of what inspired some of your favorite runway looks… from imagination all the way to reality.  Proof that dreams and fantasy realize every day in all shapes and sizes :)

Enjoy!

Hope your week is getting better and better as the days unravel…

xox

Mar
23

Last week I got together with the incredibly beautiful and talented Anna Freda – one of the unique ladies that bring the KL universe to life on an everyday basis.  Ana is almost sprite-like.  Tall and slender with a cropped pixie cut and a kind twinkle in her eyes (that might sound seriously cheesy but when you meet her you might succumb to the same description yourself).  For those of you who may have never experienced her in person, Anna has walked many a catwalk for Katrin’s Montreal Fashion Week shows as well as performed in-boutique for some of the many KL events and soirees… she is the girl with the glow, with the endless confidence… the one with the “it” factor.  So really, it came as no surprise when I discovered she is a practicing flamenco dancer when not helping ladies of all ages cover themselves in KL goodness :) .

Anna is one fifth of the Montreal based contemporary flamenco group Compasion (Compas being the rhythm of flamenco mixed in with the groups passion for the art).  Compasion will be performing here in Montreal tomorrow for their Juvance spectacle which will also tour in Toronto, Quebec and Temiscouata.  Anna describes Juvance as a rejuvenation of the soul and spirit through creativity.  When I asked her what flamenco meant to her, I got exactly the fiery, passionate response I was looking for… “It’s a raw energy of savage expression, an untamed, wild nature that means so much more than just the dance itself.  It is the epitome of passion itself communicated physically”.  Anna applies her performing philosophies to her in-boutique ethic stating that it is a natural interaction for her to be outfitting others who are curious about expressing their own inner personalities and passions.

When Compasion (info on show time and venue) performs, every element of their dress and stage setup are deeply thought out and colors and textures quickly translate to emotions and feelings.  Skirts and pants dictate moods and lighting creates the desired aura.  Anna understands the importance of everything coming together in unison to create desired effects and sensations.  Juvance is about new beginnings and Anna and her dancing partner have chosen fuschia as their symbolic means to represent healing joy and the beautiful sight of new flowers in spring (a KL favorite).  The group take pride in their non-traditional approach to flamenco and it’s usual costumes, only incorporating the established shoes into their routines… everything else is a creative free for all and inspired by what they truly love.  Anna aims to have all future costumes made by Katrin for her groups productions including so many of the beautiful colors and textures we all love so much.  In fact, while doing this interview Anna was sporting the KL Sexy Dress Tunic in a pattern of golden yellows and oranges, browns and punchy pinks.  She says she tries to apply the symbolism and significance of color when dressing people in the boutique, matching moods and personalities with the appropriate shades (how cool is that)?!?

Amongst her many inspirations is a deep, unconditional love for Michael Jackson and all things musical, mastery and artistic excellence (when one has mastered his craft) alongside innocent and genuine people.  She holds a deep respect for all who are able to overcome their fears as she relates quite closely to them.  Although she may appear as a cool, calm and collected lady with a whole lot of stage presence, she is actually quite introverted and has to push and prepare herself for her onstage offerings…. pretty hard to believe considering how well and naturally everything seems to flow when she is in front of you struttin’ herself down the catwalk ;) .  That is why we love Miss Anna though, she realizes that her natural gift is something that MUST be shared for the rest of the world to adore.

Dearest Anna, the best of luck (not that you need it) for tomorrow’s show and I will see you there!

xox

Mar
22

These pin cushions are TO DIE FOR!  Little universes represented via pincushion small enough to fit inside a teacup :)   Truly warms my heart on this brisk windy day.  These little drops of sunshine dreamt up by the imaginative and equally innovative Mimi Kirchner (remember the name?  She also makes some of Katrin’s favorite dolls).  Completely made by hand and an obvious amount of love, I want these all over my life!

Hope you are all having a wonderful start to the week… hang tight, some lovely posts coming your way this week!

xox

Mar
19

Happy Birthday to Erin (whose birthday is not over until this month officially ends)!  This beautiful, loving lady is an amazing stylist and manager for the Katrin Leblond Boutique and mama to a very special little girl (who can often be found hiding underneath beds and putting fleurettes and silk roses in her hair).  Here are a few candid shots of the little celebration held in Erin’s honor at the KL boutique… isn’t the cake just gorgeous?!?

Erin and Anna dressed head to toe in KL goodness!  When you see the glow radiating from the two of them it makes Katrin’s philosophy on beauty being a reflection of the love you have inside a reality.  The KL team truly live and breathe the practice it preaches :)

And there is the little lady herself… Miss Aya!

Strawberry cheers of course!

Some of the fabulous guests…

Happy Birthday Month Erin!  We love and cherish you!

If you happen to be in the St. Laurent/Mont-Royal area be sure to drop by the boutique to send your birthday love before the month is through… why limit celebrating an awesome person to one day???  Birthday Months for all!!!

xox

Mar
17

Riddle me this…

What in the world is more exciting than reversible hats?!?  Ummmm… nothing?!?!  I’ll take reversible anything any day of the week!  There is something so incredibly satisfying about one thing that can serve multiple purposes… could it have something to do with the fact that we are all forced to multitask in this day and age in our everyday lives?  Could it be that we gain some kind of twisted pleasure from seeing our garments work just as hard as we do… or is it just the fact that it is double the beauty and pleasure?  Well, either way it works for me – bring on the reversible!

Mémé Fontaine creates these beauties in a magnitude of colors and textures… perfect to pair with your favorite pair of jeans, KL velvet jacket and cozy sweater :)

In-person experiencing is strongly suggested and encouraged – these babies are even more captivating when you play around with how they transform :)

Hats off to ya!

xox

Mar
16

This Saturday, Katrin will be on the panel of judges set to crown the winners of the Heels & Heart fashion show!  Join her for an evening filled with cocktails, up and coming designers, abstract fashion art and raffle auctions all for a great cause!

More information on the time and Old Port venue on the  Heels & Heart website with all proceeds benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada.

Hope to see you there!

xox

Mar
16

If you have not yet seen this seasons window installment for the Katrin Leblond Boutique I sincerely urge you to bundle up, grab a cafe latte and croissant and take in the beauty of every color and brushstroke (in the true spirit of Breakfast at Tiffany’s).  Jean Austin Low is the artist behind the vibrant and expressive floral canvases propped up behind the mannequins to set the mood for the patterned party skirts, crinolines, appliqued totes and animated pillowcases.  The art on the canvas and the art of the clothing walk SO hand in hand it’s hard to believe that the two were not initially created to complement each other.  I guess it’s true when they say that great minds think alike…

Jean uses pastels, watercolor, acrylic and oil paints to create her botanical masterpieces which are inspired by her deep love for gardening.  Tying into Katrin’s deep respect and love for the environment and mother earth, it is no wonder these two artists found each other.  Low’s art is a celebration of the power and beauty of florals… the very plant that oozes femininity, delicacy and finess – see a resemblance to Katrin’s fashion philosophies?  The strength of a woman hidden in the beautiful shell that is a flower.

Did you also happen to notice the new KL sign with all the retro cool light bulbs?  I love this new addition :)

I also love the pastel theme going on in the right side of the window display (and throughout the store)!  It really feels very refreshing amongst the strong vibrant colors and eclectic prints… a beautiful color story for spring!

Wishing you a beautiful start to the week!  Surround yourself with beauty and art!

Smile

xox

Mar
13

The more I look at some of the beautiful and amazing velvet pieces that are currently in the KL boutique, the more I keep thinking of how perfect they all are for the weather we have been having lately…  Warm enough for lighter jackets, multiple layers, brighter prints and colors to reflect the springtime sunshine :)   We are at the perfect middle transition where we still need protection from the elements but lust for the skirts and tank tops of summer… why not pair them all together for the perfect “right now” look?

This is the most refreshing alternative to a black wool jacket…

Did you know that purple is considered a royal color because of it’s rarity dating back to ancient Greece!?  Nobility as well as Kings and Queens were the only ones who could afford the dye due to the intense labor involved with both fishing and extracting the limited amount of ink from the sea snail that naturally produces it.  It is said that to obtain 1.4 grams of Tyrian Purple you would need approximately twelve thousand snails… and that would allow you to color the trim alone of your garment.  Isn’t that insane? I listened in fashion history class… :p

Indulge in your love for mini skirts with leggings that provide both comfort and practicality (not to mention warmth in the colder months) with the leaf applique skirt!  Two for one!  Pair these with knee high colorful socks and round toe heels for chillier days and opt for strappy sandals in the summer :)   What is a great piece of clothing if it isn’t versatile and magical all at once?

Maybe this weekend is your weekend to drop by the Boutique and add some rich velvety vibes to your wardrobe (… just sayin’…)

Happy slow beginning of Spring!

(Hey… we’ve got to celebrate every ounce of sunshine we get!)

xox

Katrin Leblond Design
4647 Blvd. St-Laurent
Montréal, Québec,

H2T 1R2
CANADA

Or for a very VIP appointment… 514-678-9616
Mar
12

It is always fun to hear what different members of the press have to say after a big event or show… but sometimes it is even nicer to experience a bit more of an intimate look into what goes on behind the lights, cameras and action…

There is an unbelievable amount of preparation involved in pulling off a fifteen minute fashion show.  Months of planning, booking, creating and finalizing for the thrill of entertainment and being able to visually vocalize an idea and mood :)   It is such a beautifully frivolous yet completely necessary endeavor.  Inviting and treating the very people you dress – the very people who are the brand, to indulge in the new picture board of perfection you have dreamt up and realized!  How could anything be more satisfying?!?

These beautiful black and whites were shot by Kat’s younger brother, Nick Leblond, who’s backstage experience was everything he seems to have captured in his shots – peaceful.  He described the models (some of which Kat has used in her previous Sensation Mode show) to be at ease and confident, assured and ready.  None of the regular anxiety feel or rushed paranoia that some shows can create.  The most beautiful thing that Kat recalled to me in an e-mail the day after the show was what she said to each and every one of the models before they walked out on stage…

“I keep re-living the line up and how great the girls looked back stage.  They were so stunning.  So generous.  Before every one of them went out,  I looked her in the eyes, took her hands and told her: You are beautiful.  Go slow.  Breathe.  Smile.  Enjoy.  You are a queen”.

The lineup!

The girls were drop dead gorgeous and did an incredible job… I love the fact that these ladies really are the strong women they projected on the catwalk.  I love even more the fact that the confidence they injected to their walks and struts are not an act.  These girls ain’t faking a thing… they truly are the KL goddesses Kat designs for :)

xox

Mar
11

Portraits (especially self) are always interesting to see.  Someones perception and talent used to portray themselves or someone else through their own eyes…  Sometimes they expose a certain emotion or mood – possibly even a flaw or feature… and other times they are perfection.  An outsiders preconceived notions of a perfect life.  Here are a beautiful collection of hand embroideries (inspiration courtesy of Mr. X Stitch, the KING of Contemporary embroidery and needlecraft) bringing out certainly the best in the people presented :) .  Amongst ladies and gentlemen I could not help but add in some other beautiful forms of embroidery and needlework… I need to learn how to crochet/beautifully stitch – LIKE NOW!!!

I love the use of buttons, paint, beads and stitches that make this collage type of art so expressive!  The zigzag stitching reminds me so much of Katrin’s embroidered skirts and Emilie Desmeules (a KL boutique artist)  abstract detailed yarn color explosions.  Makes me want to grab a canvas and get to work!  Never experienced any of Katrin’s artwork?  Take a walk through the store and keep your eyes peeled for original KL masterpieces… or, grab a smoothie next door at all vegan Aux Vivres and gaze adoringly at the mounted printed fabric canvases that Kat created.  Divine!

Hope your week is everything you expected it to be and more!  This is the halfway point…

xox

Mar
09

Kat has both a deep love for circus and costume design, making it rather easy to foresee why she loves these Mimi Kirchner dolls.  They are fun, theatrical and full of character.  From the tattoo’d lady to the muscle man with the handlebar mustache, her dolls encapsulate all the characters and roles that bring a spectacle together.  Take a look at the characters Ms. Kirchner creates in comparison to Kat’s real life dolls!

So many of the stereotypical elements that bring circus together are what makes Katrin’s clothing so vibrant and fresh.  Stripes, flower embellishments, artistic prints, painting and playful appliques… there is an element of drama to how she constructs her garments… each piece demanding more attention than the next!

The most beautiful aspect is the philosophy of beauty however.  Achievable to any and everyone.  Sometimes it is societies misconstrued vision of what we shouldn’t be that makes us our most admirable self!  Nobody should stand out and be tagged a “freak” in life, they should be congratulated and celebrated for having the strength to go against the grain!  For visually and mentally challenging our views and ideals…

Modern day inked circus lady?

… and just for fun…

… how cute are these pins?  They actually use them in the studio for draping, sewing and pattern making.  Just goes to show how important surrounding yourself with beauty every day is and that sometimes the smallest things or gestures make the biggest difference.

Bisous

xox

Mar
08

The lovely, mega talented Zina Comics encapsulated the theatrical KL show via cartoon!  I seriously cannot get over this… every time I come back to these images I trip out!!!  Not only are they perfectly visually accurate but the emotion and mood of the show were captured immaculately.  Amongst all the amazing press the show has gotten ( Eva Friede of the Gazette, Noo Montreal, Maddy K Events, and the National Post) to have a visual non photograph recollection is simply divine!

From ladies of the front row to the beautiful models and KL creations, Zina’s artwork brings out some of the shows many vibrant highlights!

The little lady!!!  A crowd favorite for her fairytale appeal as well as honest and brave approach to the catwalk, I am so happy to see this already character-like persona exemplified into an immortal finished sketch!

I’m really not quite sure you could ever even begin to understand how I reacted when I first saw the cartoon version of myself… I literally screamed and jumped up and down while waiting with my boyfriend in a line (yes… in a public place)!  I am truly amazed at the dress details (my bag!!!), and everything perfected down to the color of my eyes.  Truly amazing.

Oh… and for the record… I had no idea this dress was going to be in the show!  I picked it up one fine day while visiting the boutique – couldn’t say no to the red of those poppies (and the fact that I am addicted to tunics of every shape and size)!  Must have looked pretty impressive from an outsiders point of view when there I am sitting in the front row and my dress walks right past me…. LOL… truly too funny… still think I’m some crazy VIP?!?  Hahaha… cat’s outta the bag!

And here are the beautiful Arveen, Line and Zina (the TELEGRAPHE team) apparently in a sea of tall monster fashionistas… sorry if I added to that group :P

Thank you SO MUCH Zina – this seriously made the KL teams day (or month)!

xox

Mar
04

So last night at the Bonsecours Market Katrin blew us all away with a smashing show filled with color, vivid patterns, contortionists, acrobats and positive vibes of acceptance and love!  One of the only Montreal designers this year to showcase both a fall/winter collection as well as Cruise!  The world of Katrin Leblond saw many new additions – bikinis, customized shoes, handbags and an incredible avant garde art statement piece.  What about those manslaves?!  Two of them holding up the acrobatic vixen… just proves further the power of feminine energy induced into the performance :)

Look who it is!  Anna, one of the girls from the Boutique walked the Sensation Mode runways in full fabulous character… embodying the style and confidence that epitomises the KL brand.  If you liked what you saw, be sure to drop by the Boutique and let her know!

Now the bikinis I flat out loved.  Super flattering, super textured and a super refreshing escape from all the somber black, grays and neutrals we’ve been seeing all week in the fall/winter collections!  I could picture myself wearing one of these in the South of France or Spain with a picnik and glass of red wine tucked away in my beach basket… *sigh*

This turquoise Grecian dress was a crowd pleaser… so many people tweeted it as their favorite and pointed it out to me in conversation.  It is one of those effortlessly wearable summer/vacation items that we all need in our closets… color, detailing and not too tight!  This piece will most definitely sell out as soon as it hits the KL racks.

Now this lady was something special.  Contorting her body every which way (in heels might I add), she actually did a couple of back flips mid runway and proceeded to walk down the catwalk on all fours upside down (I know… crazy right?!?).  She really caught people off guard as she blended seamlessly into the show as a model before starting her elegant displays of bendable talent and strength for the world to see.  She was, to put it simply and to the point – incredibly amazing.  The thing I loved most about incorporating all the circus elements into the show was that it is not a theme for Katrin.  These are the people who her designs cater to (and quite a large portion might I add).  Performers, comedians, actresses and singers flock to her boutique every DAY for ensembles that will capture their personalities and deem their acts unforgettable.  The rest of Kat’s clientele are REAL women.  Women with curves, women who want clothing to flatter and function their lifestyles.  Strong and intelligent characters who want to shine every single day and be noticed.  Women with flair.  The models in the show really represented that to me.  The eighty year old lady who came out at one point looking like the fairy godmother, the plus size woman who looked ravishing in the long skirt and hooded jacket… and of course all the beautiful size sixes and eights that graced the runway!  Any trend or style can be pulled off when you are 5′ 10″ and a size 2… dressing different body shapes yields a completely different challenge.  I think Kat really continues to ace that test and “keep it real” in the most creatively unreal way… lol!

Flirtation will get you everywhere!

And the statement piece!!!  A caged bodice with makeshift fleurette pasties of sorts and ankle length sheer skirt… you don’t see the back in this picture but the caged frame was laced up like a bustier with ribbon… oh the extravagance!  Glad to see some fashion that was purely for the dreamers :)

So congrats to Katrin on the show being a grand success and also to the audience who brought an amazing energy to the Marche Bonsecours!

We were thrilled to have and meet you all!

xox

P.S. A big thank you to the Lab Creatif for posting these pictures… stay tuned… a more detailed review of the KL show to come :)

Mar
03

The entire KL team is buzzing with excitement and anticipation of this evenings Sensation Mode presentation!  Get to know these familiar faces because you will be seeing them scattered all around the Bonsecours Market… they are the unique love fueled team headed by the divine Katrin Leblond who make the KL universe go round :)   We are loud, proud and some kick ass confident women!  On behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank Katrin for creating an everyday environment where employees feel like a family and team… where our individual personalities are encouraged and nurtured and appreciated for their strengths.  Where wackiness is endearing, ideas and dreams possible and beauty endless.  I love working with you all and am SO proud to be part of the crew again!!!

So come say hi, don’t be shy… meet the very people who craft your favorite KL ensembles, make the Boutique such a warm and inviting place and keep you informed on KL happenings :)   WE want to meet YOU and hear your voice!

The show is gonna kick ASS (and I have a sixth sense about these things…)!

Défilé de Mode- Fashion show

le mercredi 3 mars, 18 :00h, Wednesday March 3rd, 6pm

Marché Bonsecours, 350 Rue Saint-Paul Est, Vieux Port

Venez au paradis. C’est un appel à toutes les femmes : déesses, ensorceleuses, prêtresses : adorez et soyez adorées. Découvrez-vous à nouveau. Exultez! Venez à la rencontre de la Grande Reine Hiémale, inclinez-vous devant l’ Exo-Vierge, soyez envoûtées par la puissance de la Vieille-Sage, et imaginez vous avec l’air de toutes les nymphes…

Come to paradise. Calling all women: goddesses, witches, and priestesses, worship and be worshipped. Tumble into yourself. Be uplifted. Meet the High Queen of Winter, bow before the Un-Virgin, experience the power of the Crone, and discover yourself in the allure of all the vixens…

Mar
03

Just in time for a little itty bitty extra sneak peek into the KL Fashion Show preparation universe I give you three more of these divine custom shoes!  A few facts you should know about tonight’s show…

Katrin searched high and low for size six and eight models!  Seeing as none of the Montreal Agencies had enough girls that size, she hired individually from nearly every modeling agency in town…

…one of our models we are particularly excited to have as well (but we won’t blow her cover… surprises are best left anticipated).

Also, because the Katrin Leblond morale is all about feeling good in your own skin (and shoes), every custom pair of shoes you see here are the models own!  Kat asked everyone to bring in an old pair of heels that they felt comfortable struttin’ their stuff in that she could transform into artistic masterpieces.  All I can say is that those lucky models are going home with the first ever pairs of KL footwear!  Does that not make you want to dig deep into your closet and recreate an old favorite (or at least wish Kat would continue her shoe adorning talents)?!

Can’t wait to see you all at the show tonight at six (please get there closer to five thirty to allow seating to run smoothly)!  More details about time and location on the Facebook Event Wall

Boy we are all in for a treat!

I’m so excited… just can’t wait…

xox

P.S.  Thank you to all who mentioned the slow loading pictures of the previous shoe post – I will be fixing that shortly and compressing the pictures from now on for maximum upload speed!  Bear with me :)

Mar
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Attention!  Attention!  This just in… an exclusive KL sneak peek at just a few of the custom made shoes to be seen in the fashion show this Wednesday at Marche Bonsecours (more details and how to RSVP on the Facebook Event Page).  Gorgeous shots taken from Kat’s studio… I swear when I opened my e-mail and saw these for the first time my jaw dropped!  How is it that every time I check out the boutique or take a glimpse inside of the KL teams mind I am glorified each time more than the last?!?  Truly inspiring to witness a fountain of never ending creativity and youthful design!

All I’m sayin’ is that I hope these footwear creations don’t end at Fashion Week… imagine a whole line of custom KL shoes to match your perfectly crafted ensemble…

Happy Monday world and Happy official first day of the 18th Edition of Montreal Fashion Week!

xox

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