It's been well over a year since I first shared the quiet power of Canadian-born, Belgium-based designer, David Szeto. He remains one of my favourite indie designers, who skills keep him with a bevy of devoted customers. And now he has a permenent space online packed with a powerful e-commerce component. He's taking all the right steps for growing his brand organically, which I applaud and support. With Szeto embracing the changing landscape of fashion with both arms, allows more people to get their hands on his collections. And trust me you'll want to get your hands on his S/S 2011 collection, which is filled with beautifully constructed pieces that are begging to be purchased. Simply put, Szeto creates investment pieces. There is nothing more rewarding than owning well made clothes that transcend trends and season, which is what you'll find in any of his collections. Below are a few of my favourite pieces. Do visit his space to explore the entire collection. His new website allows you the ability to see the clothes from several different perspectives {it's animated with no lags — a major plus}, and the "where it's available" sits right next to each of the S/S 2011 looks, and is clickable. Be sure to keep strolling for a mini Q&A with the designer.
Mr. Szeto was kind of enough to indulge a few questions I had regarding the S/S 2011 collection, his new online space, and future plans. Below is glimpse into his world. Enjoy.
What inspired the current collection?
Freedom or 'Liberté' is the name of the collection. This has two meanings for me. One was that this was the first collection where I completely owned 100% of my company and had the freedom to do as I wanted. The other was my travels to India and Africa. The mix of colors, earthy, muddy colors with spicy and intense bright tones. The prints were also intentionally done to create the irregularities that you often find in Indian wood block prints. Leather trimming on garments, such as cuffs, and a leather neckband was intended to remind us of freedom when we don't have it (though these details are perfectly comfortable).
Will you be adding any accessories to your label? Any collaborations?
I'm hoping to do some jewelry collaborations in the coming seasons, but I can't confirm this just yet. Eventually I hope to do a line of shoes — one of my many dreams.
What made you decide to add an e-commerce aspect to your website?
It was important for me because I do think that online selling is so much part of today, and I am sure even more so in the future. I also like the idea of having some sort of communication with the client. The fact that someone can request possible changes in a fabric or colour, that I may have not thought of is almost similar to couture. More than often my online clients will ask my opinions before making purchases, which I am always happy to do.
Who is the David Szeto woman?
I never really think of a type of women when I design. I think more "is the design flattering or comfortable?". After something is done I get a variety of women to try them on before I make a final decision.
Below are two coats from his AW/10 collection that I'm seriously thinking about purchasing, because I absolutely love both of them! Click here to shop the collection.
Fotos Courtesy of David Szeto.
Many thanks to Mr. Szeto for giving us a glimpse into how and why he creates. We look forward to all of the great things you'll create next, including that shoe collection!
, out May 3rd. Enjoy and be sure to purchase it 
