442 McAdam S/S 2010

I often speak with other fashion critics about the elements that make a fashion show truly a “show.” London, Paris, Milan and New York fashion weeks are undeniably about the clothing but most designers bring a theatrical element to their presentation.

Music, make up, hair and the attitude each model brings to the runway are all factors that can make or break a show.We waited all week for a collection that would utilize these elements to the max. And on the final night of Alberta Fashion Week, the performance we yearned for arrived.

Designer Sarah Shell and her line of leather hand bags (442 McAdam) not only brought a distinguished and attractive set of bags to the runway but a memorable show to boot. There were clutches, shoulder bags and skirt bags. Each had its own identity but all carried the signature 442 crests and a color scheme which was appropriate for the inevitable coming of fall. Brown, suede and chocolate panels of leather make these bags almost impossible not to coordinate with any piece of clothing.

Each bag entered the runway with incredible character. For example, Mode Model Ania B rocked the catwalk with such energy and swagger that it added to the personality of the bag. The brown-suede shoulder bag adorned a bold strip of maroon leather down the center and was held up by a courageous two-tone strap with detailed gold and red stitching.

Later in the show, a blonde dainty model pranced innocently along the runway. Her demeanor emulated the soft cream and caramel clutch she was holding. But seconds later, she was robbed by another model who snatched the snatch right out of her hands.

The drama didn’t end there.

As I twitter frantically about the awesome presentation before my eyes, a model approaches the lady sitting to my direct left and tussles with her for yet another bag!

These girls were ruthless!

The show played with arrangement; having more than one girl walk at a time, it appealed to all the emotions and most importantly, it was entertaining.

Sarah Shell has come along way from sewing simple garments out of her grandparent’s house at 442 McAdams in Winnipeg to having her purses worn by stars on the Toronto International Film Festival red carpet.

But it makes sense.

You see, not all designers are artists and not all artists are designers but once in while you come along someone with the whole package. And Sarah Shell is just that.

Words by Ian Keteku

Photos by David Austin © 2009