LG Fashion Week in Toronto

So here is my take on LGFW (as it has been dubbed), which just wrapped up... I won't be commenting on the designers' collections as most of my blogging colleagues will but I will be commenting on how I think a few changes may help them. Although, I will say that they did a superb job and we should all be proud!

First, let me set the record and say that I think the opportunity that this fashion week provides to budding artists and Canada in general is great! Most of these designers are not quite big enough or have the financial backing to create an opportunity for themselves at established events such as the New York, London, Paris or Milan shows. This week gives them the opportunity to let their talent be seen - THAT I agree with and compliment.

Second, let me tell you what I think needs to be fixed so our fantastic designers get the recognition that they deserve. Lets start with the venue - what was wrong with Nathan Phillips Square? It is a beacon of Toronto life and culture, as well as a well-trafficked and open gathering point. Bryant Park tents are a symbol of NY fashion week, why wouldn't the Nathan Phillips tent work for us? Make the scene and location part of the branding. Branding requires that people see consistency and feel emotional attachment. I think that Nathan Phillips provided both of those. And then when you decide to change the venue, why not choose an equally culturally rich and public locale? The Allstream Centre? I didn't even know that place existed but what I do now know about it is that it's not easily accessed by public transportation (as has been mentioned by numerous members of the media). I am obviously not privy to the reasons behind this decision so I will not comment on their validity, I just believe in Toronto and its designers - so why make it so difficult for people to get to them and why not give them the LGFW recognition and locale that they deserve?

Additionally, why does LGFW take place 2-3weeks after the rest of the world fashion shows and the buying frenzy has fizzled? Not only that, but this year it took place over a long weekend...did that help or hinder attendance? Personally...no one and nothing messes with my long weekends. :) Again, give our designers the support they deserve and schedule them right after Milan so they are part of the hoopla that these weeks build up. Why not feed off some of the momentum that someone else has already created?

Let me know what you think - agree, disagree, is there something behind these decisions that I don't know?