The 2007 Babu et Moi show
Photo: Courtesy of Toronto Alternative Arts and Fashion Week
While the venue remains the same for the third annual Toronto Alternative Arts and Fashion Week (also known as FAT)—the Fermenting Cellar in the distillery district—several other elements of the three-day event are changing this year. For example, FAT (which begins Wednesday and runs through Friday) will feature more artists, including musicians, performers, and photographers, alongside the fashion collections. "We've always had performers, but not to the extent of this year," FAT publicist Aurora James said. "We've included a lot more artists because all art forms are closely tied to fashion."
Also new are the eight 50-inch TV screens in the venue, provided by Pioneer. FAT art director Vessna Perunovich said she'll be showcasing art on the screens instead of trying to hang pieces on the wall, since drilling is not allowed in the venue. "The screens will not only display artwork, but they'll also be a great source of light," Perunovich said. The raised red PVC runway is another new feature, and it's close to 60 feet long—much larger than in previous years.FAT has strayed from using more traditional-looking runway models in the past, but this year organizers went a step further by holding an open casting call. Event sponsor Ben Barry of the Ben Barry Agency, who works on Dove's Campaign for Real Beauty, conducted the casting call to choose models with healthier body weights. "We've chosen a lot of really well-rounded models for this event," James said. "It's not so much about looks as it is about energy."
Although the decor in the Fermenting Cellar will be kept to a minimum for FAT, some of the event's sponsors are adding a design touch. Beefeater Gin is constructing a lounge space complete with hedges and an original red phone booth from London, while HGTV is bringing in a large chandelier made with red and white roses. Thirty-nine designers will present fall/winter collections, with each of the three evenings having a different theme.
Despite this year's changes, James said the goal of the event remains the same: to bring people from the fashion and arts communities together and to give designers an affordable alternative to L'Oréal Fashion Week. The event is produced by FAT founder Vanja Vasic, board members, contributors, and volunteers.
Also new are the eight 50-inch TV screens in the venue, provided by Pioneer. FAT art director Vessna Perunovich said she'll be showcasing art on the screens instead of trying to hang pieces on the wall, since drilling is not allowed in the venue. "The screens will not only display artwork, but they'll also be a great source of light," Perunovich said. The raised red PVC runway is another new feature, and it's close to 60 feet long—much larger than in previous years.FAT has strayed from using more traditional-looking runway models in the past, but this year organizers went a step further by holding an open casting call. Event sponsor Ben Barry of the Ben Barry Agency, who works on Dove's Campaign for Real Beauty, conducted the casting call to choose models with healthier body weights. "We've chosen a lot of really well-rounded models for this event," James said. "It's not so much about looks as it is about energy."
Although the decor in the Fermenting Cellar will be kept to a minimum for FAT, some of the event's sponsors are adding a design touch. Beefeater Gin is constructing a lounge space complete with hedges and an original red phone booth from London, while HGTV is bringing in a large chandelier made with red and white roses. Thirty-nine designers will present fall/winter collections, with each of the three evenings having a different theme.
Despite this year's changes, James said the goal of the event remains the same: to bring people from the fashion and arts communities together and to give designers an affordable alternative to L'Oréal Fashion Week. The event is produced by FAT founder Vanja Vasic, board members, contributors, and volunteers.
