Vancouver Fashion eZine - Online Magazine

While Dace Moore's self-named company, "d a c e", has only been in business since 2002, Moore actually began designing 14 years ago. Shy by nature, she has an underlying determination that serves her well. The company has grown steadily with her line now being sold in 50 stores across Canada and the U.S. including the prestigious Holt Renfrew and worn by stars such as Lindsay Lohan.

Moore always had a passion for fine clothing and would purchase 1 or 2 quality pieces instead of a wardrobe of lesser-priced garments. Not an enthusiastic student, she was glad to be finished with high school and left Vernon to eventually settle in Vancouver where she found work as a waitress on Granville Island; however, life changed abruptly with the premature birth of her daughter. Temporarily at home full time, a sewing machine from her mother and vintage patterns purchased from thrift stores kept her challenged. She taught herself to sew, experimented with construction techniques and learned to combine pattern pieces to create unique garments that were sold on a consignment basis in Dream boutique. When she returned to work Moore continued to develop her skills. She completed a degree in Fashion Design at Blanche Macdonald then worked a year for United Snow and Skate as a Production Manager/Designer where she gained valuable experience in the fashion industry. With the help of business partner Leesha Sabine, Moore launched her first collection in 2002 and took it on a cross-Canada tour to introduce her line to fresh markets.

"d a c e" clothing has been described as versatile, classic, fun, sophisticated, modern, feminine, sexy, timeless, and comfortable. Exquisite fabrics are an important part of the design process as are Moore's travels. Working with a buyer for a local boutique has taken her to New York and Los Angeles, and she has also taken personal trips to Barcelona, Holland, Belgium and Italy. The Fall 2007 collection includes a wide assortment of separates and dresses with many items designed for layering. A personal favorite is the Henny Shirtdress in grey plaid. Fall standards of black, grey, and navy are complimented by a beautiful blue/black cotton print from France and red plaid wool from Italy. In contrast, Spring 2008 is light and airy with a larger selection of dresses. Partly influenced by a trip to Spain where the women were wearing Bohemian chic (flowing dresses with beautiful shoes and jewelry) the line is also a response to the large number of weddings amongst her friends. In addition to dresses there is a great selection of separates to mix and match in white, mushroom, grey and black. Two dresses sewn in a delicate red, navy, and white striped cotton complete this strong collection.

"d a c e" continues to grow with each season and Moore recently found the need to move to a larger workspace. An airy room in Gastown with big windows and filled with natural light provides a warm, inviting environment in which to work. With the recent addition of a U.S. agent, there is no doubt that this business will continue to grow. For information on where to purchase the "d a c e" line or to access their on-line store, please visit the website at www.dace.ca.