Whatever your feelings may be towards Barbie, the iconic doll’s influence as a vehicle of style is most undeniable. Fifty years after her début, Canada’s David Dixon keeps her on the minds of Toronto Fashion Week-goers with his spring 2010 Barbie by David Dixon collection.
   This latest installation in Dixon’s Barbie collections (his label secured exclusive licensing rights in 2008) was inspired by the opening number in 1957’s Funny Face, ‘Think Pink!’ (which also doubled as the opening montage for the show). Dixon’s Barbie offering for spring 2010 was a mixture of classically feminine silhouettes, keeping in line with the design philosophy that has made him such a success, and geek-chic accessorizing (think Mad Men thick-rimmed glasses, ankle socks, oversized bows and round collars), both making this collection delightfully retro.
   While the late ’80s and early ’90s have been dominant in mainstream fashion, the classic houndstooth, checks and polka dots were surprisingly refreshing—especially on vivacious fabrics that came alive as the models took the catwalk. And although Dixon’s was a familiar palette of black, white and pink, the layering of textures and accessories kept the collection modern and fresh.
   Notable ensembles include a pink jacket and Bermuda-shorts suit, a winter-white bell-sleeved coat, skinny-belted black turtleneck paired with a checked-print full skirt; houndstooth stovepipes with sequinned jacket atop a pair of zebra-print peep-toes; a black chiffon halter maxi dress with hot-pink polka dots (complete with matching corsage) and a mod pink trapeze trenchcoat with oversized collar and buttons.
   The collection was rounded out with several pieces incorporating a pink psychedelic print brocade in jackets, skirts and dresses—sort of a nod to the direction that fashion was moving to at the end of the ’50s. With such unforgettable pieces one could easily see Jackie O., Audrey or even Carrie Bradshaw donning these designs, speaking to the chic timelessness of Dixon’s vision and creativity.
   Now Dixon, too, will be iconic—especially in Canadian fashion.
   All pieces in the collection will be available exclusively at Canadian retailer, the Bay, in spring 2010.—Samantha Potes

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