PARK, which stands for “Promoting Artists and Redefining Kulture,” is the creative energy behind the PARKLUXE fashion show and has been gaining momentum over the last few years. PARK is a group of talented artists who are passionate about growing and re-defining the art and fashion scene in Calgary. The mission of the PARKLUXE fashion shows is to give exposure to designers and artists who are creating high-end work that deserves both local and international attention. On October 5th, the Telus Spark Science Centre was transformed into an elegant setting for the 2013 PARKLUXE. Upon entering the room, guests were greeted by a mile-long runway worthy of fashion week in the Big Apple. There was no shortage of sponsors involved; everyone from Holt Renfrew to the Glenbow Museum and MAC makeup were excited to endorse the glamorous event. The crowd was filled with well-heeled locals, photographers who had no shortage of beautiful subjects to work with, and fashionistas in head-turning outfits.
Before the fashion show started, guests sipped on Moet and Chandon bubbles, mingled in and around the VIP lounge, and checked out the interactive art on display. Artist Kirk Dunkley showcased his sculpture, titled Magnitude of Order, from his ‘String Theory’ series. The playful art piece, which is made from 5000 feet of ball chain and 192 feet of aircraft aluminum, captivated everyone who stopped to have a look. The audience of curious spectators was encouraged to interact with the artwork by crawling through the cascading beads. Magnitude ended up being used as a backdrop for more than a few photo-ops throughout the evening.
The 2013 PARKLUXE designers included: Tanya Taylor, Laura Siegel, Lauren Bagliore, Paul Hardy, Nicole Campre and Malorie Urbanovitch. There were two sets of runway shows that proved just how talented designers are here in Calgary. Fur, maxi skirts and chunky heels stood out as popular wardrobe items this season. Neutral Fall colours like black, tan, cream and burgundy were favoured in most of the collections. And, of course, we can’t talk about PARKLUXE without mentioning the chic designer accessories of Anne Corpuz-Bacalso, who is better known to the fashion and design world as Anne B. The Anne B models were dressed in Holt Renfrew and were adorned in stunning rings, necklaces, bangles and earrings, all of which are handcrafted from natural materials like wood, shell, cow horn and turquoise stone. Anne B’s jewelry was a big hit with the crowd. She has been in the fashion business for almost 15 years now and her designs have a feminine quality that can accentuate a classic look and can be worn for many occasions.
The PARK team did a terrific job of hosting a fun evening of fashion and art in a creative setting. A big round of applause goes to the PARK team for working to make our city more vibrant, fashionable and cosmopolitan. There are already talks of another PARK event early next year. All you fabulous people, stay tuned for more information on the 2014 PARKSHOW.
All Images By: Gian Carlo Z. Abellana