The Show designer spotlight: Compass Travel Co. by Keisha Lowes

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      Menswear for the modern adventurer is the theme of fourth-year Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) fashion student Keisha Lowes’ collection.

      Compass Travel Co. is a collection travel wear for men ages 30 to 45 who want to immerse themselves in new experiences abroad without looking like a tourist. The collection blurs the line between style and function, and blends heritage styling with comfortable performance fabrics.

      Compass Travel Co. will be unveiled at The Show, presented by Tamoda Apparel, on April 24 at the River Rock Casino. Thirty-six other lines by Kwantlen Polytechnic University fashion students will also be showcased. Seekpu.ca/theshow2014 for event details.

      Lynn Doan: Describe your collection to us.

      Keisha Lowes: Compass Travel Co. is a line of menswear for adventurers. It’s for men who crave new experiences and want to experience new cultures. The clothes are durable and travel well, but don’t sacrifice style, and especially don’t look like typical tourist wear.

      LD: Where did you get your inspiration?

      KL: I came up with this concept while on vacation at Sonora Resort, west of Campbell River. I spoke to one of the guides there about his travels and loved hearing the stories he had to share. As I talked to more people about their travels, I started hearing a lot about their struggles to find suitable attire that travelled well, but didn't make them stand out as a tourist.

      In terms of style and design direction, I was inspired by spring time on the Pacific Coast. I drew my colour palette from the late winter and early spring storms that bring blues, cool greys, and shades of white to our landscape. My clothes also incorporate a mix of greens and browns that remind of new forest growth. I also use pops of orange to create a vibrant contrast.

      LD: If your collection had a soundtrack, what song would it be?

      KL: It would have to be something with lots of instruments, and something folksy-indie. I like Phillip Phillips’ song "Home", because it speaks about making wherever you are your home, even if it’s initially unfamiliar.

      LD: What's your favourite piece in your wardrobe?

      KL: My black skinnies. My go-to pair is perfectly worn-in and soft, and has that natural fading that happens over time. They take me everywhere.

      LD: What are you doing after graduation?

      KL: I will be working as a technical designer with a phenomenal team at F.A.S.T. Limited—First Aid Survival Technologies.

      LD: Paris or London?

      KL: Paris.

      Lynn Doan works as a Vancouver marketing coordinator specializing in social media, blogging, and branding, and is a final-year fashion marketing student at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

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