Nina
Bitton Launch Party
Sienna Vittoria,
Toronto.
August 21, 2013
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| From left to right: Hanna Amar, Model, Model, Muriel Amar, Model. |
The sister design duo, Muriel and
Hanna Amar, have proudly released their new plus-size apparel line, Nina
Bitton. While the Amar sisters are primarily self-trained, they have fashion
in their blood. The collection is named after their grandmother, a designer,
who passed the craft on to their mother, and eventually to them. Guests of the
launch party enjoyed mingling with the models, local photographers and media
members, while sipping on chocolate martinis.
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| From left to right: Sienna Vittoria, Model, Hanna Amar |
The label is targeted towards women
who are looking for well-tailored clothing that is appropriate for a
professional work atmosphere, yet still maintains a sense of youthfulness.
“I’ve been a plus size all my life, and it is so hard to find clothing that
fits. So if I’m not finding it, neither are other people,” explained Hanna.
They set out to fill this gap niche with clothes that are “cut to fit” rather
than merely made with fabric that “stretches to fit”. This differentiation was
recognized by several of the models at the event, as they happily vouched for
the clothing’s flattering fit and comfort. “This clothing is comfortable and
constructed with curves in mind. It’s professional, but still youthful,” one
plus size model said appreciatively.
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| Add caption |
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Model and blogger Adam Goldberg
aristocraticstyle.tumblr.com |
The Nina Bitton garments were
paired with striking jewelry made from bold coloured crystals by designer
Rebekah Price. With a background in womenswear, Price eventually transitioned
into accessory design after taking a break for her children. “I came across some
vintage crystals one day, sat down at the table, and began picking and poking.
I didn’t know what I was doing at first, but I loved it.” The moment Price felt
she had reached her goal was a year later when her collection was picked up at
Holt Renfrew. Since then, her jewelry has graced the covers of fashion
magazines such as Flare, Fashion, and Vogue. The collaboration between the Amar
sisters and Price is fitting as both design teams share the goal of “making a
woman feel beautiful instantly.” Price uses colour theory to lift her
customer’s mood, as she acknowledges that specific colours correspond with
positive energy.
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| From left to right: Muriel Amar, Rebekah Price, Hanna Amar |
Read on to read my interview with
the Amar sisters.
Why did the two of
you decide to design together as partners?
Hanna: well,
we’re both fashionistas, we love getting dressed up, we love handbags, we love
makeup, so we thought why don’t we put our passions together, and make
something amazing. At the base we have the same style, but mine is a little
more rocker chic while [Muriel’s] is more classic. Combined, it gave us this
wonderful collection.
Muriel: There
wasn’t much out there in plus sizes for the everyday girl. They should have the
same kind of clothing as everyone else: cut well and made well. Not just a
stretch.
What is your background in fashion?
Hanna: I did a
little bit of fashion at college, and a few fashion shows, but no real
training.
Muriel: I’ve been drawing my whole life, and I’ve
always loved it.
This is your first
collection, as you mentioned, so what’s next for you?
Hanna: the next
season is rocker-chic! Leather jackets, and a little more nighttime.
Muriel: this
season is more city-chic, so there is a focus on the transition from work to an
evening out.
Tell me about the jewelry
designer you’re working with?
Muriel: Her name
is Rebekah Price. All our pieces are paired with her jewelry. They are
beautiful pieces and we are so happy to be collaborating with her.
Where can we purchase
your clothing?
Muriel: We have a
few stores in Toronto carrying our line such as Sexy Plus, and several others that will be announced
soon. Additionally on our website.
Check out their spring/summer‘13 collection at:
SexyPlusClothing.com
-Sienna Vittoria
Twitter: @SiennaVittoria
