Ottawa’s Couturier of the Year

Nine contestants were in the running for the top spot as they showed their collections at the Grande Premiere fashion show held by Richard Robinson at the Hilton Lac Leamy.

The judge’s panel consisted of Ottawa’s top fashion influencers:  Katherine Ellis from FAJO Magazine, Angie from Angies Models and Talent, Sophie Beaudoin from Models International Management, Grace Odumo from 613 Style, Janet Wilson with the Ottawa Citizen, Sid Cratzbarg from The Aristocrat of Scent and Alexandra Gunn with Ottawa Life Magazine.

Julianne Buchholz’s runway collection stunned the judges with Quartz crystal detailing and structured separates. The seamless collection mixed materials and patterns to delight any fashion forward shopper.

OLM’s  Fashion Editor, Alexandra Gunn caught up with the Couturier of the Year after her big win at the Grande Premiere.

OLM: What is the vision behind your collection?

Julianne:  My vision for the collection, was melding geology and fashion together. Last summer, I fell in love with raw quartz crystals and knew I had to incorporate them in my collection. Mixing natural elements with structured pieces was an exciting experience. The trial and error of how to attach crystals to my garments was invigorating and fueled my inspiration.

OLM: Who is the client that you designed for in the designs you showed on the runway?

Julianne:   I design for an influential woman who likes to lead by example. The clothes she wears takes risks with combining colors, prints and unconventional fabrics that allow her to stand out positively.

OLM: After being named the Couturier of the Year, what do you intend on doing next?

Julianne: Recently I have started managing a workshop for the company Confections Carcajou. I oversee the production of military wear, this includes pattern and sample making, sewing and employee effectiveness. In my personal time I am developing my next collection which I hope to show at Ottawa Fashion Week.

Credit:  Neil Robertson Photography