Carroll brings his swan-song collection to the runway

After more than three decades as Edmonton's premiere fashion designer, Stanley Carroll released his swan song, Flight, on April 29.

Inspiration for the spring 2022 collection was twofold: consideration for the plight of refugees and how clothing plays a critical role in their efforts to reach a safe haven, and the recognition of young people coming of age during a pandemic finally enjoying a release of freedom as the world reopens.

The show was presented in two parts to a full house in Acacia Masonic Hall's upper chamber featuring a black-and-white checked floor with a black star in the centre and blue velvet-covered thrones on either end of the upper chamber.

A funky performance of musical chairs involving 14 models armed with black case props, choreographed by Sarah C.R. Makins from Fame Dance Studios was the first half.

Crimped hair and athleisure pieces featuring fine-art prints were shown in a continuous whirl.

The main runway event kicked off with one of my favourite pandemic tracks, Marea (We've Lost Dancing) by Fred Again and The Blessed Madonna, and Boyd Whiskeyjack led a fabulously diverse crew of 22 models of all shapes, sizes and genders, including a mom-to-be.

Carroll's signature style has always involved kinky angles and patchwork elements, many were bolder and brighter than in collections past.

Beautifully patterned and perfectly coloured shirts, formal shorts and cargo trousers with fun pockets catered to the everyday while recycled silks, full-length black lace and exotic shimmers from vintage fabrics offered a dose of haute couture.

Kelly Rosborough of House of Bokeh was on hand snapping photos and a full gallery can be found online in the Arts section of the edmontonjournal.com.

Boyd Whiskeyjack walks down the runway as part of Flight, Stanley Carroll's last collection, which was presented at Acacia Hall on April 29.