Peter T. Hoang

Fall is finally upon us in Vancouver but on the runways of New York, Paris, Milan and London, it’s all about Spring and Summer. The newest designer collections are being showcased for upcoming seasons. Vancouver developed its own much less lavish version, recently showcasing local and even some international designers during BC Fashion Week.

I attended more than a handful of shows during the past week, sitting front row with my legs crossed and posture perfect. I was often peeved that none of the shows started on time. Honestly, unless your name is Marc or Karl and you’re undertaking a multi-million dollar runway show in Paris, it is not respectful to have your eager audience waiting too long. Once the events did get underway, attendees were witness to a handful of blossoming talented designers, watching as passionate dreams came alive. Timing issues aside, in the end, it’s all about the love of fashion.

The majority of the collections I watched during the week shared one common theme: classic wardrobe pieces and traditional tailoring with a modern twist. Teenflo, Olsen Europe and Hugo Boss, all located at Oakridge Centre, carry prime examples of beautiful, tailored fashion with a timeless look, which reminds me a lot of what was being shown at Fashion Week. Whether it was a coat with darted detailing or a silk white blouse, the clothes being shown draped beautifully on the strutting models.

Attending BC Fashion Week was definitely an eye-opening experience for me. With the experience gained from this season, I can only hope for the best, wishing for strong progress in the upcoming seasons from the fashion community in Vancouver.

Valerie Tiu

There’s no doubt that Oakridge Centre is committed to supporting Dress for Success Vancouver. I must admit, however, that before I joined the Oakridge team, I didn’t know much about the charitable organization. After getting to know the faces behind Dress for Success Vancouver, I now fully understand the significance and hope that these people bring to women in need. This was further solidified when I had the pleasure of attending Dress for Success Vancouver’s Wrap Up Event.

Swarming with elegantly-dressed women (and the occasional dapper gentleman), the Pacific Palisades was transformed into a marketplace of sorts, complete with a showcasing area, a decadent buffet, and a makeshift runway. Hosted by CTV’S Keri Adams, the Wrap Up Event was packed with plenty of activities, giveaways, and of course, a little shopping! A percentage of proceeds went to support DFSV. Guest speaker Rosalyn Taylor O’Neale, DFS Worldwide Board Chair, delivered a truly inspiring speech. Rosalyn’s statement was simple: the women that DFS supports could be you or me; surely, a poignant and thought-provoking message.

The main event was a fun-filled scavenger hunt that led corporate sponsors for DFS scrambling through the hotel in search of interview attire. The players ended up strutting their stuff in front of a panel of judges to win prizes. The judges included Keri Adams, corporate representatives, and , along with fellow Style Agent Jessie Carlson, yours truly. I must say that it was definitely a challenge to judge so many chic ladies; given the short time they had to put together an ensemble.

Fun and games aside, I felt truly honoured to be invited to this Dress for Success event. It was so inspiring to be surrounded by women who dedicate so much time and effort to a cause like this.

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”  – Anne Frank

From left to right: Peter Hoang, Jessie Carlson, Valerie Tiu, Ana Serrano

The new Oakridge Style Agents were recently introduced to the world at the May 6 anniversary event at Oakridge Centre – congratulations to Peter Hoang, Jessie Carlson, Valerie Tiu and Ana Serrano.

Keep checking Oakridge Style for updates from the Style Agents.

· Be one of the first 100 people to arrive on May 6th and receive an Oakridge gift bag
· There will be entertainment and models showcasing fashion throughout the decades
· Virgin 95.3 radio will be onsite with giveaways and celebrity hosts from 2-6pm
· Support Dress For Success and buy a raffle ticket to win lots of exciting prizes

We will be unveiling the Oakridge Style Agents who will lead the Vancouver fashion following for Oakridge Centre’s 50th Anniversary year. See details here.

Come down to Oakridge Centre on 41st and Cambie between 9:30 am and 9:00 pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 and celebrate this momentous occasion!

Special thank you to all participating sponsors: Montecristo Jewellers, Kernels, The Bay, Browns Shoes, Bellessa, Olsen Europe, MAXMARA, Sony Style, Safeway, Fortune Restaurant, Tommy Bahama, Ingledew’s, Crabtree & Evelyn, Crisca, 2nd Look Studios, Femme de Carriere, Quiksilver, Scotia Bank, Sterling Shoes, Ragnar Jewellers, Blue Ruby, Mount-Cashmere, Kin’s Farm Market, Stuart’s Bakery, Purdy’s Chocolates, Wear Else, Hennessy Salon + Spa, and Banana Republic.

Voting closes April 28th, 2009 – let your voice be heard!