Avant-garde mischief-maker Kirsty McKenzie (www.myspace.com/kirstyisthirsty) specializes in custom apparel. After graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2005, her lust for costuming and over-the-top couture led her to New York to intern for a year with respected fashion collective ThreeASFOUR. (McKenzie recalls working in a “crazy painted silver studio” with bosses she succinctly sums up as “space gypsies.”) Unable to find work-visa sponsorship, McKenzie returned to Toronto in 2006, where freelance illustrating and a stint working with Annie Thompson inevitably inspired her “Victorian badass disco luxe” 2008 collection showcased last month at Toronto Alternative Fashion Week. She also creates pop-raver millinery for Les Claypool sidekick and sitar player Gabby La La. (One hat is called “Beaver Fever.”)
MUSE: Lena Love, performance artist, choreographer and legendary mainstay in the gay circuit and leather party scenes.
THE LOOK: English floral bodysuits, clashing pink damask and black PVC leathered bustle dresses, black and gold brocade bellbottoms.
THE CLOTHES: On McKenzie: Kirsty McKenzie floral elasticized headband ($40), cream Kirsty McKenzie English floral bodysuit and knit sweater ($500), vintage black suede high-waist belt (stylist’s own), vintage gold pocket watch (designer’s own), solidswank “swanky U.F.O.” ring ($35), vintage floral peekaboo platforms from Gadabout ($60). On Lena: vintage black beaded necklace from Gadabout ($30), Kirsty McKenzie floral patterned and black pleather bustle dress ($1,500), vintage cameo brooch (designer’s own), black patent wedges (designer’s own).