Political climate and literal climate of the world aside for a haute couture minute; I am encouraged. As New York Fashion Week wrapped up and we ride along the taffeta train to the other cities – London and then Paris – I am thrilled by some of what I see.

Calgary – the entrepreneurial city that could – is ever changing. Each industry, except for maybe the one we’re most well-known for, is growing. Breweries, pop up shops, restaurants, and summer favourites like gourmet ice crème places are huge. The art and fashion scene, too, have never been better.

Later this week, I’ll be heading down to a much-anticipated event: Snap! As this is its first year, I’m excited to see how the night will unfold. It’s new but I do know this: it’s billed as a “Transformational night of music and fashion” in celebration of International Women’s Day.

This past weekend I attended PARKSHOW at Chinook Mall. The event, while still young, is getting to be a Calgary fashion scene staple. Hundreds gather to see what local designers are producing and showing on the runway (or maybe we gather because it’s something to do.) It would be easy for me to put on my critical hat and share all my thoughts on the show. I will resist the urge for two reasons: I’ve already done that and there’s more to talk about.

Like any other fashion fanatic, these past couple weeks viewing the Spring/Summer presentations are an insatiable treat. First New York, now London, and soon enough it will be time for Paris. Le sigh. As the collections strut their way down the runway, my eyes been drawn to the floor. 

This past weekend I attended two events requiring holiday fashion with a slightly formal dress code. ‘Tis the season. One was a corporate event. It was lovely but there’s not much noteworthy to share. The other was a student how-to fashion show where I showed looks and explained etiquette and fit. The idea is that you hear from those in the know so that you don’t make a fool – or dress like one - when you start your career.

One thing I look forward to in fall is going out on the town. Summer can be so hectic and hard to coordinate schedules. The fall seems to bring people back to our city. Last weekend a few friends and I went out to PARKLUXE 2015 Calgary. This time around I had adjusted my expectations on the fashion presentations and instead, focused on the crowds. I wanted to take in what the people were wearing from their own wardrobes.

It’s that time again. It’s New York Fashion Week. While the streets are flooded with the usual fashion community, a newer movement, too, is hitting the streets. Designers, models, stylists and supporters flooded Times Square for the #PlusIsEqual Lane Bryant event. The campaign is calling for support in representation of all sizes of women in fashion. Excuse the forthcoming location pun, but I think it’s much overdue in terms of time.

I have realized I tend to comment from the female perspective. Sorry fellas, I do not mean to leave you out I simply write what I know best. I want to remedy this by shedding some bright light on a fantastic contributor to the world of fashion. Ladies and gentlemen, please get to know the incomparable Tommy Ton.

I was excited to attend Calgary’s PARKSHOW SS15 as it’s an opportunity to get dressed up and go out. This is especially important to me as this city feels casual, too casual, and this event can help to change that. At the minimum I feel it’s a step in the direction of a better-dressed Calgary. After attending, I felt torn. That’s a lie.

Those staggering numbers and details are impressive, sure, for business. But they do not interest me one bit from a style stance. I am not denying the U.S. brands retail strength. I am however questioning it’s place in advancing the world of fashion. I understand the draw: beautiful women with beautiful bodies in lingerie. Pretty simple. Pun intended.