NADA YOUSIF AND PINK TARTAN

50's FLASH
NADA YOUSIF

Since her debut at L'Oréal Fashionweek in October of 2007, Nada Yousif has kicked into gear to give Fall 2008 a fresh 50's focus.

"It sounds so cliché but it's the fabric that inspires me to create the shapes in my collection," says Yousif. "This season I've definitely put a 50's feel into my work. It's done in a way that captures a fresher, younger, more contemporary spirit."

Filled with floor-length evening dresses, full-circle skirts and tops that are more fitted than in her previous collection, Yousif makes brown the superstar hue for the season.

"Brown is everywhere and in many variations. But I always go for a splash of colour," says Yousif, who enlivens this season's urban attire with quirky punches of pink, grey and purple.

In fact, after her October 2007 debut Yousif was shocked to see just how much contemporary women craved colour. "That first collection was so bright and youthful. Women in the 50's and 60's were loving it," says Yousif, who moved into the fashion industry from a film and television background.

"There are so many great fashion options for women today," she says. "As long as it's classic anything can work. A modern update makes everything wearable. That's something every consumer can appreciate and enjoy."

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PRISTINE PUNK
PINK TARTAN

"How do you take something that's so street and so edgy and make it wearable? That's the idea that I wanted to explore," says Kimberley Newport-Mimran, the creative force behind Pink Tartan.

Inspired by the British street movement of the 70's, Newport-Mimran's sophisticated take on that ebullient era is one urban hipsters will enjoy.

"The fall collection is all about pristine punk," says Newport-Mimran. "It's that tough and tender contrast. It's the biker jacket done in cashmere and worn with a full pretty skirt. That edgy British detailing is everywhere. It's all about wearable, exciting fashion."

Pretty silhouettes are also Pink Tartan staples. "I'm loving the little schoolboy jacket, but redesigned with a great pant," says Newport-Mimran. Skirt suits, full skirts with waist-fitted jackets and dresses are also collection essentials.

"I still believe in dresses," says Newport-Mimran. "They're great, easy to wear and fit perfectly. You'll see details on every one that give them that punky edge."

Regal British colours also pump up Pink Tartan's opulent fall vibe. From strong cobalt blue to fuschia pink, purple and emerald green intense jewel tones are this hot label's hue du jour. "Think of great velvet slippers," says Newport-Mimran. It's that plush posh that accents the architecture behind each cutting-edge confection.

Founded in 2002 with Joseph Mimran - Newport-Mimran's husband and business partner, Pink Tartan boasts a strong star following and a "must-have" presence in 170 Saks Fifth Avenue stores across North America.

"Every season I push forward to bring new silhouettes and fabrics to women. But it's got to be wearble," says Newport-Mimran. "My philosophy is simple. You should be able to take any piece, throw it up in the air and put on the enitre collection."

Written by: Constance Droganes, entertainment writer, CTV.ca

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