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Geek Love

By | Jun 25, 2012

My favourite thing about attending one of Mo Handahu’s shows is undoubtedly the sense of positivity, warmth and anticipation that always fills the room. The atmosphere for the Clutch Culture summer runway show at Fred Salon on Saturday night embodied these lovely vibes. Handahu’s managed to build a real following of supporters as well as earning a great deal of respect from her peers (think photographers, bloggers and designers). With her endearing blog, Curvy Geekery, and her collection of oversized envelope clutches, Handahu is making a statement in Halifax that is every bit as vibrant as the lady herself.

Fred Salon is a lucrative choice for such an event. The simplicity of the white walls and the large open space makes the perfect setting for a runway show. One of my second favourite things about attending a fashion show is the people watching and (oh my!) there’s almost as much dazzle to take in off the runway as there is on. Before I was even seated, I was mesmerized by For the Love of Prints blogger, Tosan Ikomi’s sequined blue dress with v-neck back. A great complement to her lovely skin tone, it was the right dress on the right girl.

The main event was more polished than the last show I attended and my friends and I were in agreement that Handahu’s designs are evolving just as she is. I got a kick out of the first collection simply named “1998” which pays homage to the 90s (I shuddered here for a moment to think of the outfits I was wearing during this decade). For Handahu, it was an inspirational time that ignited her creativity and also sealed the formation of lifelong friends. The collection was pure fun and a slice of a decade when loud prints and bold colours weren’t just a trend; they were the every day norm. The clutches in this collection are even larger than her previous designs. Eclectic vintage and graffiti inspired prints and vibrant colours held court on mini skirted models with slicked back hair. It was a playful way to begin the evening and spectators were smiling and engaged.

Nevertheless, Handahu’s next collection “Wild Hearts” was the one I felt really embodied all things Clutch Culture. Models donned colourful headscarves, short shorts and white body make-up accentuating a tribal aesthetic. The clutches were gorgeous African prints not for really destined for the demure ladies out there. This unabashed love of prints flows from Handahu’s natural tendencies. Throwing in the new element of male models, I was pleased to see some options for the fellas (think shoulder straps, large slouchy messenger bags). My favourite clutch of the evening was predominantly a shock of turquoise with a wonderful orange and green tribal print on the flap, perfect for hot summer nights of patio lounging and dancing.

Essentially, I’m loving the way Halifax is embracing this dynamic lady. Handahu is not your cookie cutter fashionista and she lacks the diva attitude. Her modesty and sweetness shined through when she took to the runway with pride for a final walk with her models. I was happy to see her in a colourful shift dress sans her usual headdress at ease with her natural radiance. She’s recently added FASHION Magazine style panelist to her resume, and it’s clear that Handahu’s becoming a fashion force not just in Halifax but on a national level as well.

- Nicole

 

 

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