Behind the Seams with Vivian Wong

In an exclusive interview with the creative mind behind Bellissima's premier private label Vivian Wong talks about style, her fashion processes and beyond...

KC:  Vivian where are you from? What's your educational/ professional background?

VW:   I was born in Hong Kong. After I finished high school  I went to Paris to study fashion design and graduated in 1979. I then worked for a few International companies based in Europe where I learned the world's leading fashion .  When I returned to Hong Kong I was responsible for the whole fashion department, and experienced a wide range of challenges from production all the way to selling.

KC:  Describe the general process you go through to design and realize a collection. What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing? In your mind what are the necessities in the design/construction of your line?

VW:  When designing a collection, it is very important to know what the trends are; in style, fabrics and color, and to closely study the target market that I am aiming for. To make a quality article of clothing, it needs a good design with character, fabric and workmanship so that women wear it with confidence and comfort. I also take pride in manufacturing our garments in Canada.

KC:  What is your favorite part of the process? Least favorite?
   

VW:  My favorite part of the process is the design aspect however it is also the hardest.  When designing, I can fantasize about creating fashion that I like. My  least favorite part is the production, which is at the hands of others and it is not easy to find someone with the same passion towards fashion that I have.

KC:  What are some of your fashion goals for your line?

VW:  My fashion goals are to design clothing welcomed by the general public and recognized by the fashion world.

 KC:  How would you define the style your line exemplifies?

VW:  My fashion designs convey a message of style and comfort.

 KC:  Do you have any favourite fabrics you like to use?

 VW:  My favourite fabrics are silky chiffon and a jersey knit with colorful prints.

KC:  Who are your favourite designers?

 
VW:  My favourite designers are Frida Giannini (Gucci), Donna Karen, Eva & Roberto Cavalli, Yohji Yamamoto, Jil Sander…

 KC:  Where would you recommend someone who wanted to become a designer take their schooling?

 VW:  I would recommend studying in Paris or London simply because Europe is still the fashion leader.

 KC:  Since Bellissima is based in Western Canada do you base your designs on the "West Coast Women"?

VW:  Yes. It is very important to be welcomed by the local Canadian women before seeking recognition from the World.

I can see that the Vivian Wong private label is very well received and definitely growing in popularity with our Bellissima clients. By having a designer work exclusively with Bellissima, it puts this unique company on the map and shows their commitment to bringing the very best in fashion to the market place, not to mention how they stand out amongst the rest.

Thanks Vivian, stay chic!

 

 

Pretty Pretty Peplum

One of the latest trends to hit fashion waves this season is the Peplum. Peplum tops, jackets and dresses are all the rage for the upcoming season. In case you are unfamiliar with what exactly a peplum is, it can be described as a flared ruffle attached to the waistline of a dress, jacket or blouse. Peplums are an easy way to define or give the illusion of hips and curves. Peplums also add class, style and sophistication to any look.

Here's a few tips I've picked up for rockin' the peplum look;

• When wearing a peplum top, keep your bottom half fitted with either a pencil skirt or skinny jeans. The only flare should be on the peplum, more than that would be overkill. 

• Don’t be afraid to try it! Slim women will benefit from the instant illusion of curves and curvier women will benefit from the accentuated waistline.

Special Spring Sneak Peek

Lets look ahead shall we ... leave the snow and ice behind and stroll our way alongside Punxsutawney Phil into the fresh spring sun.  This spring season there are so many trends to look out for, vibrant colours, feminine textures and graphic patterns.

This past month I had the pleasure of assisting at the Bellissima website photo shoot.  After a long day spent styling, posing and snapping photos, everyone was exhausted by the time we left the studio, but couldn't be more thrilled with the final product. I hope you enjoy this little sneak peak... stay tuned for the final spread coming soon!

Invest Invest Invest

My New Years resolution?  Invest.  Making the most out of our wardrobes by investing in 1 great piece that can be worn in a variety of ways.  One of my new favourite pieces, courtesy of the Bellissima spring collection, is this chiffon casual jacket, which I've worn in 3 different ways below;

1.  Everyday Chic
Together with a bejewelled T and your favourite pair of blue jeans, adds an artistic flare to your everyday.

2.  Office Fashion Party
Make the work week a little more fun by updating a basic suit!  I've worn this piece as a blouse over top of a classic pair of trousers then combined with some funky statement jewellery making this the perfect outfit to make it through any long week.

3.  Friday Night Fabulousness
Now for something a little more fashionable to go with a cosmopolitan.  Notice how this jacket is also completely reversible!!  I've paired it over a classic "little black dress" to create the perfect evening outfit for date night!  Add some sparkle and a cute pair of heels and you're good to go.

Happy Shopping!!

Our Invitation to You

Bellissima would like you to come check out the new spring and vacation clothing by Joseph Ribkoff and Bellissima exclusive brands! Trouble viewing this email? Click here to view it online. NEW SPRING & VACATION STYLES AVAILABLE NOW! Come check out Ribkoff's spring line as well as exclusive European clothing lines available only at Bellissima Fashions! Want a bit more style in your life? Check out theBellissima Fashion Blog BELLISSIMA WEBSITE  |  BLOG  |  FIND A STORE  |  FACEBOOK  |  FORWARD TO A FRIEND Copyright (C) 2013 Bellissima Fashions All rights reserved. We extend special offers to customers who opted into our mailing list in our stores or on our blog. Bellissima Fashions 6737 Fairmont Dr. S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 0X6 Canada Add us to your address book  unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences

New Years Eve Dresses

Last minute shopping for your New Years Eve outfit? Look no further then Bellissima! One thing Bellissima is known for is our collection of evening dresses, so you will be sure to find the perfect outfit to ring in the new year. Below are just a few idea from our fall/winter collection in stores now. Click here  to find the location near you.

Monthly Pinterest Inspiration

Are you following along with Bellissima on Pinterest yet? Here are just a few recent images from our Pinterest pinboards. Currently we are loving chunky knits, sequins and ankle strap heels. Along with fashion inspiration our pin-boards include clothing and jewellery you can find at Bellissima, Bellissima in the media, and behind the scenes images! To keep up to date with everything Bellissima, follow us on Pinterest. You can also follow along through Twitter and Facebook. 

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Heart Truth: Bellissima Runway Show

Last month we shared some photos from the Heart Truth Fashion Show. If you missed out on the event, here is a great video by Paul Spenard showcasing many of the looks from the Bellissima runway presentation. 

Heart Truth Fashion Show - Calgary 2012

Clothing: Bellissima Fashions

Models: Sophia Models International

Video by Paul Spenard of Eye Squared Productions

Coats, Colour & Cashmere

Style# 3605886

Winter is here and we have coats. Not only the basic colours but fashion colours too. This shade of fuchsia adds real impact to your wardrobe....also available in royal, black and orange. It’s a blend of wool and cashmere and can be dressed up or down. Most of us are looking for a coat that is versatile enough to wear over a dress or to be able to pair it with jeans and a sweater...This is that coat! Check out your local BELLISSIMA for your new winter coat.

Multi Option Fashion Essentials

If you've got a long shopping list and not a lot of time then here are some inspiring holiday gift ideas.  Multi option pieces will give her several unique looks and you a little more "bang" for your buck. Here are a few of my personal favourites ...

Top E33-6350S     Wrap V9-62500

This piece is actually a long rectangular shaped knit with delicate buttons up and down either side at the hem.  Made of an ultra soft acrylic it's cozy around the neck as a scarf and light enough to be worn as a bolero or shrug. The perfect accent to a simple top and don't even get me started about the vast array of rich colours Bellissima has available!

Top E33-6350S     Vest J19-58673

Top E33-6350S     Vest J19-58673

Now this fabulous number designed by Jaipur can be worn as anything from a vest to a dress!  Add a pin here and a belt there and let your imagination run wild. The subtle heather pattern and warm chocolaty colour works for all skin tones and is a light jersey knit, perfect for travelling, that won't wrinkle.  Making it ideal for that winter get away vacation.  Come visit the Bellissima store nearest you for more excellent gift ideas.

Monthly Pinterest Inspiration

Bellissima has joined Pinterest! We couldn't stay away from this inspirational form of social media. Have a Pinterest account? Follow us and see some of our favourite looks from our in house designer Vivian Wong, weekly looks from Bellissima, seasonal fashion inspiration, staff favourites and much more.  Below are some of our most recent pins from our board, What's up for Winter 2012. 

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Holiday Party Dresses

The holiday season is upon us, and that means Christmas parties will be just around the corner. Bellissima has a wide variety of party dresses for all your holiday needs. Whether it's a night out for the company party or at home with friends and family, Bellissima has you covered. Here are just a few of the dresses that are available this season. 

Fun Fashion Night Out!!!

Fabulous Designer Samples!!

Ok here it is ... straight up ...  after spending what seems like "for-ever" slaving away at work, the bell tolls 5 and we all sprint for the door desperate for some excitement, inspiration and if you're anything like me ... yearning for a little fashion fix.  Well let me tell you ladies, add in a little bubbly and that is exactly what Bellissima had going on this past week at the Scotia Centre and Chinook Centre Bellissima locations in Calgary.  Not to mention the little "cherry on top" ... a trunk show of the Joseph Ribkoff 2013 cruise collection!  Bellissima has brought designer fashions right to our backdoor.  All the latest and greatest, convex silhouettes, fabulous prints, figure framing layers the list goes on and on.  If you are looking for a little "ab-fab" in your life, then you need look no further.  Keep in touch by adding "Bellissima" on facebook and be sure not to miss out on the next fashion night out!

Heart Truth Fashion Show

 Back in September Bellissima took part in a charity fashion show called The Heart Truth, which raised funds for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The show started out with locally designed red dresses and suits. The show continued with a presentation of some of Calgary's top brands and retailers, including Bellissima!  Below are some photos from the Bellissima show as well as the locally designed red dresses. To find out more about the show click here.

Joseph Ribkoff Trunk Shows

Facebook Contest

We are celebrating our 1500th FACEBOOK LIKE! To show our appreciation we're giving away two $100 Gift Certificates towards Bellissima merchandise! To enter the giveaway, just interact on our Facebook Page by leaving comments and liking posts. Draw priority will be given to Bellissima Facebook participants that comment and participate on the Bellissima Facebook Page. One winner from Alberta and one winner from BC will be selected on December 1st 2012.

If you aren't following Bellissima on Facebook yet, click here to join the conversation! 

Royal Resurgence

Royal is one of those colours that seems to be flattering on almost everybody. We are seeing a resurgence of this colour in handbags, shoes, jewellery and of course clothing. We are even seeing it on the bark of trees....how’s that for a popular colour!!! Just goes to show that everyone should try on some Royal. Get your Royal fix at BELLISSIMA

Photos taken at Port Moody City Hall