Low-key fashion event at the Biltmore a success

By Tabitha Swanson

Vancouver’s first fashion Bazaar kicked off the summer season, Saturday, July 7 at the Biltmore Cabaret.

The Biltmore may be best known for its burlesque Sunday Kitty Nights, but on this particular Saturday afternoon it paid tribute to its name: Bazaar, a Persian term for market.

As patrons descended the stairs into this basement venue, they were immediately taken with its enveloping eclectic atmosphere. From the red velveteen walls and plush booths to the mounted deer heads and wooden accents, the Biltmore radiated a comfortable and intimate feeling. The cozy feel was complemented by the down-to-earth staff.

The event was hosted by Local-E, a company created by Lexi Soukoreff, who is also the head of Portobello West (a local fashion and art market) and owner of the hand dyed clothing company Daub and Design. Prior to starting her own company, and taking on a fairly substantial role for organizing events for the artisans of Vancouver, Soukoreff completed an ample amount of schooling to prepare herself for her current role. She graduated with a bachelor of fine arts from Emily Carr, a textiles diploma from Capilano University and a fashion merchandising diploma from Blanche MacDonald.

Beginning in December 2011, Soukoreff worked hard through Local-E to bring together a group of designers who have ambitions to start something wonderful in Vancouver. They have embarked on a mission to create a buy-local revolution and get back to basics with honest, hand-crafted items. Some of the vendors in attendance included: Sofia (clothes), Herro Hatchi (t-shirts), Billy Wood Designs (jewelry), Meiku Designs (jewelry), and Carnal Design (clothes).

One vendor in particular who stood out was Visa Mexicana, a truly unique jewelry company created by Tania Orozco, a graphic designer from Mexico.

Another standout was Dolce Delights. Started by Stephanie Sia as a part time baking endeavor, her salted caramel cupcakes were indeed a most palatable experience.

The event had a slow start, leaving many of the vendors to mingle between one another, but it picked up around 2:30 p.m. One downside to the event was the beautiful sunny weather. It’s hard to get people to go into a basement when it’s a perfect day to be outside.

The next Bazaar is set to be held in October, and with more time to advertise and plan, it is sure to be an event that any fashion fans in Vancouver will want to attend.