Ivey Abitz Women's Fall 2009 Look Book

Artist Statement

Fall beckons us to return home after summer vacations and long August days. When the weather turns cooler, an aura of contemplation consumes the air, calling us home to solidify our sense of place and belonging within the worlds we create for ourselves. Home, or sense of place, seems more keenly significant in autumn. As the weather grows colder, our human instincts direct us to find a place of refuge for comfort and safety.

The Fall 2009 Collection explores this beckoning of a return to home and desire for a sense of place. Just as our homes define our everyday life, the garments we choose to drape on our bodies define it even more. Finding a home within a collection of garments is arguably more important than the very place in which we live. Garments are what embrace us and touch us - our outer shell and inner being - every single day. They're a refuge for us while we step out into the outside world. The designs for Fall 2009 give confidence to celebrate everyday life through their unabashed comfort and beauty. Wearing the garments is like being home always, no matter where you are. This idea is spoken visually through elongated, graceful jackets, flowing trousers and skirts, exquisitely finished frocks, and well-appointed shirts. Flattering, elegant lines within a garment are as important as comfortable ones, and the two combine to create new all-time favourite ensembles.

This collection also reflects upon the age-old discussion of which landscape gives us a better life: country life or city life. The collection sets out to create a harmony between city and country dwelling. The versatile designs within it can be appreciated in both, despite the vast differences between the two settings. I have experienced both secluded rural life and populated city life; I have found that one is not intrinsically better than the other, and both have their divinely inspired qualities. With this in mind, the designs and fabric were created to combine qualities found in both extreme locales. This is reflected in the juxtaposition of an exquisitely refined Italian cotton brocade made into a raw edged, peasant-inspired design. The result is elegantly comfortable garments that can be worn in any landscape, dressed up or down for any occasion.

Fall is calling us to move forward and transform within the place on earth we've been given. May you find a transformative home and true sense of place within the Ivey Abitz Fall 2009 Collection.

-Cynthia Ivey Abitz
Designer, Ivey Abitz