The designer handles the Deena Dress Debacle with class.

As long-time fans of Queen West dress boutique Champagne and Cupcakes we were glued to the scandal prompted by this Toronto Life Best-Dressed article. Developer Deena Pantalone claims her picture-perfect peach frock is a self-designed re-worked vintage dress. But readers were quick to identify the dress as a Champagne and Cupcakes original, and an online war of words erupted in the comment section of the piece. We spoke to designer Caroline Lim about the scandal, her reaction, and what Deena (a C and C regular) had to say for herself about the Dress Debacle.

How did you feel when this first came to your attention?

My very first reaction was that I was very hurt, since she was a pleasure to work with. But soon, I became pretty angry. And now, I’m just feel bad for Ms. Deena. The negative comments have been very nasty.

How much do you think the world of fashion is effected by artistic theft?

I think every industry faces these issues of credit stealing and it’s really unfortunate. In Toronto, there are many creative people (in all industries) doing amazing things who don’t properly get the recognition they deserve.

And it’s really quite sad.

The upside of this whole drama is there were so many people blogging and fighting for the protection of artistic ownership. It really says to me that there are people & consumers in Toronto who really do appreciate and respect the many, many, local artists, designers, and businesses that Toronto has to offer. It’s really a great feeling!

Has Deena called the store to apologize?

Yes, Ms. Deena and her mother came into the boutique today to apologize to me directly. I very much appreciated her gesture and am ready to move on.

So now that credit has been given where credit is due, you feel you can put the situation behind you?

Yes. Very much so. Honestly, all I wanted was the credit to be given properly.

And through the midst of all the scandal, there were many supporters of Champagne & Cupcakes, (some of which have never even stepped foot into the boutique). I had many clients call me about how angry they were for me, about this unfortunate situation. All the support is just amazing to me and I feel very blessed.

I never wished anything negative on Ms. Deena and feel sad for the outcome of her statements.

I hope both Ms. Deena & myself move on soon from this drama, both learning from the experience.