We all know that fashion is art, but sometimes, as we throw on our clothes, we lose sight of the artistry and rely on its functionality. Well, when it comes to Fashion Week, there is no way you can forget that fashion and art are one and the same, especially while attending fashion shows. Every show is put together with immense attention to detail, and while most are the conventional interpretation—the runway— every once in a while, there is a little something different in the mix that reminds you that fashion can be shown as an art installation. Welcome to Veronica Beard’s fashion presentation.

coat: @vince - brooch: @gshermanjewels - purse: @gucci - booties: @blacksuedestudio - fur: @lysalashfurs

Veronica Beard showed their new collection in what’s known in the industry as a fashion presentation: the models stand in place while onlookers move around them. Shown at one of the two main venues, the Beard show took place at Industria in what felt like a 5 à 7 vibe. The models stood on their platforms for about an hour or so, and we walked around getting a close look—even a feel—of all the clothes. One of the perks of a presentation (albeit, limited movement and slightly less exciting than a runway), is that you can chat with the models, take pictures close up, and mingle with the guests about the collection as it’s being shown. The designers were also floating around, so we got to talk to the Veronicas, which is also quite an exclusive advantage.

The collection this year showed a lot of luxurious pieces reinterpreted in what felt like a camping style. It was very outdoorsy in their prints (think lumberjack), but the overall look had a professional and wearable feel. There were pant suits with belted cinched waists, pleated skirts with tucked in fleece jackets, and a lot of turtlenecks. True to the Veronica Beard aesthetic, each look had multiple layers to show the versatility as well as functionality of each piece. Denim layered over a wool sweater, or a metallic mock neck paired with a pink leather blazer, I’m sure most of what was under-layer was a dickey in actual reality (for those who know the brand, they reinvented the dickey and put it on the fashion map!).

I represented Veronica Beard with one of my favourite sweaters from their label. I paired with a complete monochrome look, which by the way, has become somewhat of a signature style, especially when creating a look for fashion week. I have the oversized Vince coat which I teamed with my blue velvet Gucci purse, and sock booties from Black Suede Studio. I also bedazzled the coat with a feathered brooch from GSherman Jewels and my favourite accessory: the fur scarf. I’ve been rocking a monochrome look for some time and I’ve come to realize (although intuitive, I can analyze my choices retrospectively) that patterns and textures are integral to pulling off one straight colour. The plaid skirt added that perfect dynamism which lent itself to the movement of an otherwise flat look. I noticed the Veronica Beard collection was shown in a very similar manner.

Each look represented during the show had elements of plaid, floral, leopard, or hounds tooth, paired with texture: metallic, sequins, leather, or tweed. There was always a detail like a belt or buttons to create a sense of playfulness, and yet overall, each look was balanced and finely curated to a point where nothing could be removed without completely altering the look.

I love Veronica Beard and have featured them in multiple looks and blogs. I can’t get enough of the brand. I know other influencers feel a loyal love for Beard as well, as Rocky Barnes and Charlotte Groeneveld were both present.

I really enjoyed seeing the Veronica Beard collection, sipping champagne, and hearing people’s reactions to the show. It was eclectic in a highly utilitarian kind of way, and I think there is something every woman will enjoy from this season’s collection.

Photography by Patricia Brochu