Subtly Iris

Cindy Cook

Even the hors d’oeuvres at Iris Setlakwe’s press cocktail during Montreal Fashion Week were elegant. Iris, herself, was the picture of class as she graciously accepted praise for her Spring ’08 collection.

Void of bells and whistles, the Iris collection is refined and elegant with emphasis on the essence of fabrics such as linens and gauzy cottons. Working around the three-piece suit, Iris separates work flawlessly together in mostly black, white, and shades of grey. This line is suited for women who are beyond the trends and who define their style with classical, well-made, and functional pieces.

 “I am inspired by the timelessness and elegance of Grace Kelly and Jackie Onassis” Iris said. “I don’t follow trends; I design based on what I think women should wear.” At age 39, Iris admits to designing largely for herself. “I know what my life entails — work, children, etc., — and I know what I feel best in.”

As models mingled in and around the party, frequent ooo’s and aaah’s could be heard coming impressed guests. A high-waisted black pant paired with a crisp, white blouse, silk scarf and oversized shades, Jackie O style, seemed to steal the show. Such a simple concept had been modernized with only subtle details such as a capped sleeve.

Some things, it seems, never go out of style.