WE LOVE THEIR COATS – NOW WE’VE FALLEN FOR THEIR RTW WOMENSWEAR LINE
Story by Laura Schober
Photos provided by Mackage
Mackage’s Elisa Dahan and Eran Elfassy first bonded over their love of fashion in grade school and later studied fashion design together at Montreal’s Collège LaSalle. After graduation, the Canadian duo founded their luxury outerwear line in 1999. Since then, Mackage’s classic, sleek and slim-fitting coats have become a favourite among celebrities, spotted on the Gossip Girl cast, Will.I.Am, Michelle Monaghan and Irina Lazareanu – to name just a few. In 2010, Mackage debuted a ready-to-wear line for women, described by Dahan and Elfassy as “sexy and luxe with a strong edge.” The S/S 2011 collection features plenty of pleated shorts, studded blazers, flirty mid-thigh skirts and draped leather jackets. The designers say highlights of the collection include a structured twill dress, a one-piece stretch satin jumpsuit that combines “Studio 54 glam with a modern touch” and a strong-shouldered silk jersey cardigan that evokes a deconstructed feel. Plaid spoke with Dahan and Elfassy about their latest collection.
Following the success of your outerwear line, why did you decide to launch a RTW line for women? Are there any plans to launch a RTW line for men in the near future?
When we launched Mackage, we aspired to fill a void in the market. There were no coat brands, or coats for that matter, that addressed the contemporary category. We found a wonderful niche with our tailored wool coats with signature leather detailing. Mackage quickly became known as the “go to” fashion outerwear brand in North America, Europe and Asia. Once we mastered coats, we knew we were up for a new challenge and felt the time was right to tackle RTW. We have been thrilled with the recent experience! A RTW line for men is definitely a direction we see Mackage moving toward…
What design characteristics distinguish the S/S11 Mackage collection from other womenswear collections?
After designing coats for a number of years, we have a solid understanding of structure and silhouette. The strength of Mackage coats has always been in the fitted silhouette – we have worked to translate this silhouette into the RTW collection. We balance masculine and feminine elements to achieve the Mackage look. We have a love of texture and unique detailing, and source fabrics that evoke a luxe feel, allowing us to be truly creative in our design expression.
What are both of your favorite pieces from the spring/summer collection?
Dahan: The perfect little black dress!
Elfassy: The boyfriend pant, with a sexy relaxed feel.
While designing your pieces, is there a “Mackage” woman you have in mind?
The Mackage woman is anyone who exudes confidence, style and strength!
How does your personal style work into the collection?
Our personal styles reflect the ways in which we are constantly evolving as designers. We find ourselves more inspired by what we see and experience while traveling.
Where can the women’s RTW line be found in Canada?
You can find the RTW line at retailers and boutiques across Canada, including Aritzia, Maxi Boutique, Simons, U&I and at our online boutique, www.mackage.com.
