In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue.

How long has it been since you heard that handy catch phrase? One that I used to sing over and over in my head while studying for my grade seven history test! Last night at the CINCYN 2006 spring collection that haunting song made its way back into my head as I watched a small group of models graciously walking the plank.

The collection that seemed to be inspired by the open sea and had a playful pirate theme was full of strong and sexy tailored designs containing colors inspired by the sea’s rich vibrancy. Royal blue, coral and purple gave the collection a whimsical romantic vibe, complete with pieces that were wrapped, draped, and free flowing. The very sophisticated yet wearable collection had the audience captivated with women all around me, including myself, wondering when they could get their hands on one of the gorgeous dresses they saw, namely the stunning royal blue and tangerine dress with the thigh high slit up the leg, and Santa if you are listening that is the only present on my wish list!

After only recently winning Elle Canada’s “New Labels” competition 2005, CINCYN has hit the ground running and is making quite an impression on the fashion world. This collection has been showcased at the esteemed New York Olympus Fashion Week, returning home only to fascinate the audience at Toronto Fashion Week, and had the honour of being the closing designer at B.C Fashion Week.

With a gracious media following, this homegrown design team has received repeated coverage in many of the country’s top publications such as the National Post, Life and Fashion, Flare, The Toronto Star, Fashion and Elle Canada. And their designs must be catching on since many of their creations have appeared on Tanya Kim of Etalk Daily, musician Ivana Santilli and Divine Brown, and can also be seen in the 2005 film, Lie with Me.

The label is expanding rapidly with plans of branching out all over Canada and throughout the United States, and if last night’s show was any indication of what is to come, this red-hot designing duo will soon be taking the fashion world by storm!

Written by
Jill Clark and Katherine Nason