"It's just so...craft," a certain Toronto Life intern told me yesterday, on the subject of Comrags. Or did she mean "kraft", in reference to the muted and textured browns and taupes that often take shape in the label's collections? True, natural fabrics and neutrals are definitely common threads, but brights do creep in each season usually in prints. It's handled in such a great way, but I wasn't a fan of last season's somewhat matronly and dated Spring florals. Or most of the collection, in fact. Comrags needed to win me back.

The FW11 collection did just that. But not immediately. The first dress out - a crumply matte black shift - was in such serious need of Static Guard or at least a slip that it failed to make any sort of impression on me. It bunched and stuck to the model's legwear (cute DIY-esque wool stockings with embroidered buttons accenting the ankle). Awkward.

The video of the Comrags runway show is now embedded above for your viewing pleasure. In case you missed it, our review and photos are posted over here.

The ageless, timeless Comrags collection was filled with fall wardrobe staples. Designers Judy Cornish and Joyce Gunhouse presented a simple silhouette with comfortable knits and well-tailored suits. Ruching along the seams added an unexpected flourish to some of the more structured pieces.

Another unexpected aspect of the show was the absence of sky-high statement footwear on the runway. Models smiled in their flat, lace up boots designed by John Fluevog. One girl's open coat swayed with her as she nearly danced to the honky tonk music.

At the end of each runway show at LG Fashion Week we've tried to head backstage to snag some coveted interviews with the designers. Hey, we're not Fashion Televison, so we usually need to wait our turn (if you know what I mean), but when all is said and done, all of the designers have been gracious enough to give us a little soundbite.

Carlton Brown



Video of the Carlton Brown runway show
Photos of the Carlton Brown runway show
Backstage photos at the Carlton Brown runway show

Comrags returned again for the Fall 2009 after not participating in the Spring 2009 edition of Fashion Week in October. They are a long running staple of the Toronto fashion scene and are celebrating 25 long years in the business. Their shows are always a crowd favourite and never disappoint. Joyce Gunhouse and Judy Cornish have been around for 25 years because they have a very strong style and loyal customers.