Couture Design

I first met Couture Designer, Mark Belford while I was working for a magazine publisher. I was coordinating the logistics for a Toronto International Film Festival event that focused on Red Carpet Glamour. Mark's couture gowns were highlighted at the event and provided a sense of old Hollywood style and elegance. The models floated into the soiree draped in layers of chiffon and crystals.

Everyone who meets Mark falls in love with him right away and I was no different, he's become a good friend who I can chat with about anything. As a Couture Designer creative flair pours out of Mark's veins, and he has a wonderful sense of what makes a woman look and feel glamourous.

Since that first day when we met I've had the opportunity to work with Mark on many special projects. It always amazes me when he sits down to chat and begins sketching a new design or a picture of whoever happens to be sitting with him. He is passionate about designing beautiful dresses and has a good sense of what will make a woman feel elegant. Mark knows that it is the soft whisper of chiffon on a full length gown or the rustle of taffeta as she moves around a cocktail party that makes a woman feel 'dressed'.

White Italian Silk Chiffon adorned with Swarovski Crystal

The Swarovski company had the incite to know that Mark could create Couture designs incorporating their beautiful crystal jewels. Hand sewn pave crystals add a decadent elegance to the gowns; and honestly, what woman doesn't want sparkle.

Mark's signature red chiffon gown was featured on the runway at Toronto's Fashion Week in the Heart & Stroke - Heart Truth show. When model Monika Schnarre whirled the 14 foot chiffon train at the end of the runway there was a collective gasp in the audience. It was breathtaking. The ruched chiffon rosette gown was featured on the cover of FQ Magazine's Holiday Issue 2008 and remains to this day my favourite magazine cover of all time that we produced.

Glamour Begins At Home :: When you are feeling Glamourous, step out the door and show the world your beautiful self.