Fashion designer Evan Biddell introduced a new and exclusive line of his winter wear on Friday, February 24.
The range, introduced at Freyja Lifestyle Fashion on Second Avenue, was handcrafted by Biddell as ‘one-off pieces’ designed with Fernie fashionistas in mind. A former resident, Biddell described his lasting impressions of Fernie as “dating a really gorgeous person. It’s beautiful, it’s breath-taking.”
Known for his individual style, Biddell described his latest collection as “yummy wools and winter coats, things you can wrap yourself up and keep warm in.” The muse for this collection is a ‘strong minded’ girl, taking on the ‘battlefield of work and business’ with an ‘aggressive elegance.’ There is an edge and strength to the clothing, as though the pieces had the protective qualities of armour.
“Evan certainly knows a true woman’s shape and how to flatter a figure making a girl feel fabulous,” said Chantel Souliere, owner of Freyja Lifestyle Fashion. “He’s edgy, he’s stylish and his pieces are well made.” The collection features sculptural tailoring and cashmere wool coats, suit jackets and scarves. Trademark features of Biddell’s designs, such as hoods, asymmetrical cuts, and layering, are reinvented in his latest collection through structure and volume.
The designer appeared on Canada’s first season of Project Runway, quickly becoming a favourite with viewers. His diverse range of interests, and unique perspective ensure the beauty and quality of his designs. “People inspire me,” said Biddell. “Like the musician Adele, who has taken ‘spectacle’ and turned it back into an art form. And my incredible sister, who is a like a renaissance woman she is so talented.” This familial influence is clearly seen in one of the night’s best sellers, the ‘Bettie’ dress – a simple short-sleeved, knee-length number with exposed back zipper, named for Biddell’s grandmother.
The showcase also exhibited a number of Biddell’s earlier creations, including a dress from his Spring 2011, collection, ‘Kingdom’. Worn by Haley Gigg of Freyja Lifestyle Fashion, this garment features an intricate metal bodice fitted over a flowing backless dress. A second outfit, crafted from thin cork, was first exhibited at Toronto Fashion Week in 2010. “The care instructions are simply ‘oil after use’” joked Biddell.