Nemesis: Good vs. Evil Fashion Show

This year’s theme was Nemesis: Good vs. Evil. What I like about this theme is that it’s so general, it can be interpreted countless ways. And that is exactly what we saw on the runway. All the designers did a fabulous job with their pieces. We saw a lot of variety, from sea creatures and toy soldiers, to old tales and Biblical references. It’s amazing what can become of creative freedom. Sitting front row to critique the competition were the panel of judges: Montreal Fashion Designer Dinh Bà, Fashion Editor-In-Chief of Miss Sly, Noëlly Sam, and Journalist for Warehouse Magazine Michaela Di Cesare.

Prior to the show, two energetic dancers from Las Piernas Tango dance school in Montreal entertained the guests. Then the show began on a high note and remained that way all throughout its duration. Most pieces primarily contrasted white and black, or light and dark colors, to represent good and evil. While some garments were practical and wearable, others had a more theatrical edge.

We have seen Michael Eardley once again this year, undoubtedly with one of the top looks with his stunning metallic and black dress “The Evil Flirt”. Alina Smirnova’s “Destroyed Sternum” was another one of my favorites. Her approach to the Nemesis theme was really unique: “Once upon a time, there was no good or evil. There was just her,” she says of her design.

Also appearing once again this year, and who took home the 3^rd place prize, was Daian Tang. She described her piece, “Long Live McQueen” as the good and evil within fashion. Clearly inspired by McQueen himself, as a person and as a fashion icon. She hand sewed 1,184 rhinestones on the corset, which took 8 days to complete. For her, it was all about teamwork with her make-up artist to bring her creation alive. Renowned make-up artist Lorie Hamel did an incredible job that night, not only on Daian’s model but some of the other designers’ models as well. The 2^nd runner-up, Alexis Johnson Benamou, participated for Heels & Heart once again as well. Her remarkable design, “Diamond Purity”, garnered much praise for its fine architectural detailed work.

Finally, the grand prize winner that night was Alejandro Mendoza with his design “Dark Flame Heart”. A black and red gown with black leather “cones” à la Jean-Paul Gaultier was surely a memorable look. His design was meticulously and beautifully constructed. A well deserved win for Mr. Mendoza.

Another year, another Heels & Heart show. This has been my favorite show thus far, and I’m excited to see what the future has in store for Heels & Heart. There is nothing more rewarding than coming together for the love of fashion, art, all while supporting a good cause. And remember: “Evil is not absolute, and good is often an occasion more than a condition.”

Photo credits:

Silvia Di Iorio

Daian Tang