Walking into Shae Barry’s newly opened store/studio, entitle Does It Come In Black (DICIB), I was bombarded with unique clothing in various cuts, textures and styles. Having only seen his pieces on the stages of Calgary Cares, I was pleasantly surprised to note that there were pieces I could picture myself wearing. One in particular that jumped out and said “buy me”, was a sleeveless stretch cotton shirt, done in a western style with snap buttons and darting in the front and back, ensuring a perfect fit! The icing on the cake was the fab oriental print in a luscious red, definitely a must buy!! Another fab find were the men’s jeans. Made with delicious denims in dark metallic and original blue, boot cut and fit to make any ass look good!
Beginning his career as a commercial artist, Shae realized this wasn’t the job for him. He then turned to fashion, something that had always interested him when he was younger. He launched his first label, Phasion in 1985, two years after his big career change. Having changed the name to DICIB in 1995, he specializes in custom couture pieces. Being in his studio, I witnessed a fitting for a wedding dress for one of his clients. Hearing her scream after she had tried the piece on was not surprising; she looked stunning in the white dress that was tailor-made with precise detailing. Everything about the piece was exquisite from the way it hung off her body to the train, and as Shae likes to put it, he “gives good train!”
Having had over 20 years of experience in the fashion/beauty industry, it’s no surprise that his talents have been noted in the media, in print, at events, and even with numerous awards. He likes to do his own thing and not conform to the latest trends, creating pieces that will be timeless. Showing ingenuity in the combination of choices of fabric he uses in his clothing from high tech to traditional, is what sets him apart from the rest. His attention to detail with unique sewing techniques, cuts, and his one-of-a-kind designs makes his work perfect for the person interested in wearing something avant-garde and original.
In the future, he wants to start making more ready-to-wear pieces, and further his men’s collection. Being so busy doing couture pieces, he hasn’t had the time to focus on that aspect of the business, as much as he would like. I see only great things for the future for his label. You can see that he loves fashion not only in the way he talks about his work, but also in the quality and care he takes in making his pieces. The proof is definitely in the puddin’!!
DICIB?
103, 1000 9th Ave. SW
(403) 262-4114
http://www.dicib.com
