Runway | Seam Collective Presents Forte’

Fashionably charitable women united October 21st; to celebrate life, health and style! “Seam Collective” an organization to assist aspiring women who design, break into the industry; presented “Forte”, a fashion presentation with four femme designers to celebrate and benefit Gilda’s Club. Renowned comedienne Gilda Radner was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer after ten months of misdiagnoses. After finally receiving treatment for her illness; she was told the cancer had subsided and she was placed into remission. In late 1988, doctors rediscovered the cancer and decided to admit her into the hospital for a cat-scan. She was reportedly given a sedative to calm her through the process. After the procedure Radner, never woke up and passed away May 20, 1989. Radner was survived by husband Actor Gene Wilder who came together with late movie critic Joel Siegel and Gilda’s psychotherapist (time of her illness) Joanna Bull to create “Gilda’s Club” in 1991. This center was established to provide support, networking groups, social activities and so much more; free of charge to individuals living with Cancer. “Having cancer gave me membership in an elite club I’d rather not belong to”, – Gilda Radner.

Ra dner made that very statement not knowing the influence and impact that would cultivate from it. Gilda’s Club has now reached national heights bringing inspiration and hope too many around the United States and Canada. With such empathy and desire for this cause; it’s no wonder Seam Collective founders, Shari Rueckl, Minyoung Shin, Vicky Ferraro, and Elizabeth Rynish donated 50% of ticket sales to Gilda’s Club!

Project Runway’s Kenley Collins, Elizabeth Rynish, Sheila Frank and Marissa Erskine were the four amazing designers to present. Collins stated in a brief interview that the Collection was inspired by late Pilot Amelia Earhart. She wanted to portray strong, yet feminine women, which she definitely pulled off. High-waist denim pant with white blouse and mini fedora with red trimming, realized the meaning behind power feminine dressing in the forties. Tool, silk, and colors were major components of such an elegant line. “I love Sci-Fi Movies”, stated designer Elizabeth Rynish. This proved true through her collection. The bubbly designer described her process to me after I explained; her designs reminded me of paintings. “Well they are my paintings, she exclaimed with a bright smile on her face. Her inspirational guide was misguided, which brought her too an outstanding display of colors, patterns and silhouettes, such as a stunning kimono dress with burnt orange and yellow swirls! These were mini dresses with a bit of a lighthearted nature. Swirled bright pinks, purples, oranges and blues playfully patterned around the garments, with the most extraordinary collars I have seen. She kept her collection just as fun and creative as she is!

Shelia Frank took an edgier approach to her line, but did so in a fanciful way. The first look to come out was a favorite of mine. A buttoned and belted stone glittered colored romper with black lace straps had my eyes glued to the runway. The majority of looks combined chains with soft fabrics and colors. The chains were cleverly placed, to make beautiful back detail on the garments. To draw a delicate range; Frank presented a strapless baby doll dress in an alluring ice blue hue paired with a cropped jacket. This young designer has already been featured in well-known publications, such as Daily Candy, Wall Street journal and received international recognition through “The Japanese Times”!

Last but by far not least to show was Marissa Erskine presenting her collection “Rissa”. In our short but sweet interview, Erskine excitedly yelled “I am a girly girl, and I love to make clothes for all personalities; shapes and sizes”. Rissa was a fairy tale collection, beginning the show with the essence of nymphs and fairies in chic pink and black feathered ensembles or metallic exaggerated bodices with full bubble skirts, which were created with silk mikado (a full and light fabric) , in pinks, golds, pearls and spearmint greens. As the show went on the clothes became darker, more sinister, more enticing! A long avant-garde strapless black gown with wrapped around fabric, and back shield placed onto the model, closed the show with ohhhs and awes from the audience!

The night was a charitable affair and the designers were creative, innovative and kept the guest….well guessing! A few of the sponsors who graciously participated were TD Bank, Wowgreen, U.S Aloe, Lipton, Laurie Wildman and so many more. This event proves; when women come together for a common purpose, there’s no limit to what can be accomplished.

Kenley Collins

Sheila Frank

Elizabeth Rynisk

Rissa by Marissa Erskine