February is Black History Month. At FASHION, we celebrate diversity all year, but we’d like to take this opportunity to specifically highlight the talent of Black designers, who still face barriers to entry, marginalization and a lack of representation in the world of fashion.

It’s been more than three years since protests against policy brutality that escalated across the U.S. and around the world triggered change across many industries, including fashion. In May 2020, Aurora James founded the 15 Percent Pledge, calling on retailers to pledge 15 percent of shelf space to Black-owned businesses. A month after that, notable Canadian designer George Sully launched the platform Black Designers of Canada to feature and celebrate Black talent across the country.

And while we witnessed the overwhelming support of Black businesses at the height of the summer of 2020, our support must extend beyond a movement (or a month, for that matter). You’re probably familiar with a few of Canada’s renowned fashion figures, such as Kirk Pickersgill of Greta Constantine or Aurora James of Brother Vellies, but there are a myriad of creatives that also deserve the spotlight. Here are some of our favourite Black Canadian designers to shop all year round, from already-widely beloved labels to exceptional up-and-comers.

1/25

Andrea Iyamah

Tibara Kaftan Dress

($440, Andrea Iyamah)

Buy Now

2/25

Cherry Gardens

Almeda Top

($90, Cherry Gardens)

Buy Now

3/25

Annafora

Elsa Short Sleeve Convertible Cardigan

($888, Annafora)

Buy Now

4/25

Öfuurë

Somto Pajamas Short Set

($172, Öfuurë)

Buy Now

5/25

Bôhten

Exstel Blanc Sun Polarized

($200, Bôhten)

Buy Now

6/25

Bobbi Made This

Renita-Honey Bee Earrings

($55, Bobbi Made This)

Buy Now

7/25

Omi Woods

The Cowrie Lariat Necklace

($180, Omi Woods)

Buy Now

8/25

Love & Nudes

Amanda Ultimate Wire-Free Bra

($106, Love & Nudes)

Buy Now

9/25

Spencer Badu

000 Reflective Balaclava Mask

($92, Spencer Badu)

Buy Now

10/25

Adidem Asterisks

Camouflage Mohair Cardigan

($403, Adidem Asterisks)

Buy Now

11/25

Mas Montréal

Mtl Katie Dress Tumeric

($204, Mas Montréal)

Buy Now

12/25

Téjahn Burnett

Naomi Convertible Boot

($413, Téjahn Burnett )

Buy Now

13/25

Stacey Martin Lifestyle

Chill Vanilla Kimono

($253, Stacey Martin Lifestyle)

Buy Now

14/25

Life Liveth in Me

Life and Forms Silk Twill Scarf

($404, Life Liveth in Me)

Buy Now

15/25

Israella Kobla

Asha Off-Shoulder Mini Dress

($787, Israella Kobla)

Buy Now

16/25

Mike Paul Atelier

Zero Weight Knit Jacket

($1,975, Mike Paul Atelier)

Buy Now

17/25

Kwesiya

Maam Satin Wire Headband

($37, Kwesiya)

Buy Now

18/25

Enarmoured

Catapillar Mini Earring Brass

($157, Enarmoured)

Buy Now

19/25

Batik Boutik

Beaded Collage Bag

($195, Batik Boutik)

Buy Now

20/25

Kaela Kay

Akosua Flare Dress

($416, Kaela Kay)

Buy Now

21/25

Oge Ajibe

Multicoloured Face Day Top

($139, Oge Ajibe)

Buy Now

22/25

Sully & Son Co

Shigoto Backpack/Briefcase

($300, Sully & Son Co)

Buy Now

23/25

Dr Liza

Bootie - White

($595, Dr Liza)

Buy Now

24/25

Selfish Swimwear

Kiana Bikini Top in Black

($90, Selfish Swimwear)

Buy Now

25/25

Goodee

Tie-Dye Scarf

($205, Goodee)

Buy Now

This article contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you. 

The post Black Canadian Designers to Support Now and Always appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

RELATED: Thrifting Tips for Spotting Rare Gems Amid the Duds

Common Sort

 

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A post shared by Common Sort (@commonsort)

LOCATION: Toronto
SPECIALTY: Trendy fast-fashion and designer-label gems
WHY WE LOVE IT: Like most consignment stores, Common Sort can be a grab bag when it comes to style, catering to both Gen Z Y2K enthusiasts and designer snobs alike. Despite the disparate racks, what everything has in common is an affordable price tag; high-quality vintage pieces can be had for less than $30, and designer items rarely go for more than $100. With three different locations across Toronto — each catering to its unique neighbourhood locale — Common Sort will fulfill any bargain hunter’s bloodhound-like nose for a deal.

Stella Luna

LOCATION: Toronto
SPECIALTY: Pristine rare 1960s vintage
WHY WE LOVE IT: Open only two days a week, Stella Luna is perhaps Toronto’s best-kept vintage secret. Owner Crispian Underwood has been hawking Oleg Cassini blouses and sleek alligator pumps to discerning Torontonians since the mid-’90s from her west-Parkdale storefront with its celestial motifs painted on dusty-orange walls. Prices are scandalously affordable; a stunning 1960s beaded cardigan clocks in at only $30. Ask nicely and Underwood may let you into her treasure trove of a basement for a peek.

Mintage Mall

 

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A post shared by Mintage Mall (@mintagemall)

LOCATION: Vancouver
SPECIALTY: Novelty graphic tees and perfectly-worn-in denim
WHY WE LOVE IT: As the name suggests, Mintage Mall is a mall full of vintage. Located in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, it houses wares from some of the city’s most reputable vintage sellers under a single roof. You’ll find Billy Joel concert tees among kitschy salt and pepper shakers, sports jerseys, wedding dresses and much more spread out over several floors. With its penchant for ironic novelty items, it caters to a younger audience, but root around for an afternoon and you may leave with something wholly unexpected. Also, keep an eye out for the $20-or-less sales!

Seconde Vintage

 

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A post shared by Seconde Vintage (@seconde.vintage)

LOCATION: Montreal
SPECIALTY: Designer clothes in bold, brazen silhouettes
WHY WE LOVE IT: Opened in 2021, Seconde Vintage is a newcomer to Montreal’s brimming second-hand-store scene. Its well-curated selection of high-end vintage makes it the perfect place for anyone who wants to find pristine Prada pumps without looking too hard. The inside is jam-packed with unexpected and quirky pieces from Thierry Mugler, Chanel, Issey Miyake and The Row that you might not find anywhere else. Some of the outré styles on offer are not for the faint of heart, but a statement piece or two will elevate your wardrobe to the next level.

Collective Will

 

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A post shared by Collective Will – Consignment Store (@shopcollectivewill)

LOCATION: Vancouver
SPECIALTY: A covetable designer handbag selection
WHY WE LOVE IT: Shopping at Collective Will is like going to a clothing swap with your most stylish friends. The sunny, light-filled boutique in Vancouver’s historic Gastown district boasts the city’s most impressive selection of vintage and second-hand designer goods, including an abundance of Prada, Furla and Gucci bags. Most of the offerings are fairly pricey, but the store has frequent markdowns to clear out space, so with enough patience, you can snag a great deal on something you love. Perhaps the best news of all? They ship online orders worldwide.

Boretski Gallery

 

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LOCATION: Belleville, Ont.
SPECIALTY: Antique accessories and jazzy formalwear
WHY WE LOVE IT: Owner Marina Boretski’s crowded downtown-Belleville shop is ripe with treasures, and she often lends out her unique wares to wardrobe and prop stylists for use on Netflix shows. Dazzling 1920s evening gowns, lace bonnets from the Victorian era and 1950s cotton swimsuits are all items you might stumble upon while combing the racks. Boretski, whose boutique has been open since 2003, has an encyclopedic knowledge of her stock and can help locate pieces you might have missed on your first pass through the store.

Swish Vintage

 

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LOCATION: Edmonton
SPECIALTY: Flirty, femme vintage dresses
WHY WE LOVE IT: In a city not typically known for its stylistic prowess, Swish Vintage is a rare gem. Owner Angela Larson is a self-described “treasure hunter, storyteller and stylist” who has been uniting special items with their rightful owners for 20 years. (The name comes from Larson’s grandmother, a fashionista who used to describe stylish people as “so swish.”) The store specializes in the feminine and eclectic: Jackie O. dresses from the 1960s hang on racks next to floral cotton dresses from the 1980s. Some finds — like a custom-made leopard-print three-piece skirt suit from the 1960s ($395) — must be seen to be believed.

La Petite Boutique/The Little Shop

 

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LOCATION: Montreal
SPECIALTY: Antique textiles and costume-y clothes
WHY WE LOVE IT: Located outside of Montreal’s crowded vintage scene, La Petite Boutique may be the most beloved friperie (French for “thrift store”) of them all. Spanning three floors, the crowded shop boasts an eclectic array of handmade quilts stacked all the way up to the ceilings and a hodgepodge of hats. Nearly everyone who goes in — from puff-sleeved-prairie-dress lovers to ironic e-girls — will find something to satisfy their sensibilities. And lucky shoppers may end up being treated to a tray of tea and cookies in the afternoon by store owner Jill Moroz.

Elsie’s Used Clothing

 

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LOCATION: Halifax
SPECIALTY: Quirky high-end jumble sale
WHY WE LOVE IT: With its canary-yellow exterior and racks of clothing enticing customers to come inside, Elsie’s Used Clothing is a mainstay on Halifax’s Queen Street. The interior looks like the dressing room of a quirky aunt, with walls covered in vintage tapestries, thrift store framed photos and hangers displaying some of the frothier wares. You’ll find an assortment of luxury goods, like a 1980s Balenciaga purse ($350) and a vintage fur-collar coat ($280), at standard (read “not cheap”) vintage prices. Head there soon because the building is slated for demolition sometime in 2024.

This article first appeared in FASHION’s April 2023 issue. Find out more here.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Canada’s Best Vintage Stores appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Mejuri’s Diamond Week sale, on now until February 7, offers shoppers 15 percent off all diamond jewellery, including some new styles released just in time for the sale. And when you factor this rare diamond discount into prices that are already transparent and accessible, your new baubles will be practically free (or at least that’s how I justify my purchases). Bonus: You’ll be supporting a Canadian jewellery brand while you build your accessories wardrobe.

Mejuri diamonds are a-plenty, so to help you narrow down your choices, we’ve rounded up 10 items that will be right at home in a jewellery capsule collection, including classic diamond stud earrings, a chic signet pinky ring and a pavé bracelet you can wear every day. Whether you’re treating yourself or spoiling a loved one for Valentine’s Day (or both), here are our favourite pieces to shop during Mejuri Diamond Week.

1/10

Mejuri

Midi Diamond Studs

(Regularly $700, now $595, Mejuri)

Buy Now

2/10

Mejuri

Pavé Diamond Line Signet Pinky Ring

(Regularly $450, now $382.50, Mejuri)

Buy Now

3/10

Mejuri

Pavé Diamond Bold Bar Bracelet

(Regularly $700, now $595, Mejuri)

Buy Now

4/10

Mejuri

Diamond Necklace - C

(Regularly $400, now , Mejuri)

Buy Now

5/10

Mejuri

Pavé Diamonds Long Bar Studs

(Regularly $325, now $276.25, Mejuri)

Buy Now

6/10

Mejuri

Pavé Diamond Thin Dôme Ring

(Regularly $1100, now $935, Mejuri)

Buy Now

7/10

Mejuri

Micro-Pavé Diamond Rivière Bracelet -

(Regularly from $2300, now from $1955, Mejuri)

8/10

Mejuri

Beam Pavé Diamond Lariat Necklace

(Regularly $700, now $595, Mejuri)

Buy Now

9/10

Mejuri

Pavé Diamond Pearl Huggies

(Regularly $550, now $467.50, Mejuri)

Buy Now

10/10

Mejuri

Pavé Diamond Wishbone Ring

(Regularly $375, now $318.75, Mejuri)

Buy Now

The post Now’s the Best Time to Buy Yourself Diamonds appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Before 2022, Gallagher was known predominantly as an eveningwear designer. He launched his label in 2013 after studying at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni and Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan and Gallagher quickly became a fixture at Toronto fashion shows and events.

But nearly ten years after founding the House of Gallagher, he knew something had to change. “I had always planned on relaunching; I just didn’t know how I wanted to do it,” he reveals. “I wanted my brand to be more approachable and for my pieces to be worn on more than just fancy occasions.”

Enter Season One, his new collection that features streamlined silhouettes combined with an effortless edge and feminine accents. Blending the past with the present, the assortment of dresses and separates has notable mod touches (made more evident by the Jackie O-inspired styling) but stays current with cutouts and bold colours (hello, Barbiecore shirt dress!).

FASHION chatted with Gallagher about his time in the industry, why he loves bows and his current obsession with the shirt dress.

After all these years, how would you describe your relationship with the fashion industry?

My personal relationship with the fashion industry is better now that I feel more true to who I am. I used to feel like I had to go to every event or party, but that isn’t who I am. At my core, I am a more introverted person. Now that I really understand and accept that, I no longer place as much pressure on myself when it comes to the social aspect of the industry. I now understand my value as a designer doesn’t have anything to do with where I am seen.

How would you describe the style of your brand now vs. when you first launched in 2013?

When I first launched, the core values of what I saw for my brand were there: historical references with clean, modern lines. After a few seasons, I began to lose sight of my vision and started designing for what I thought people wanted rather than what was true to me. This next chapter allows me to continue my original idea for the brand.

What are the benefits of doing drops instead of following a traditional seasonal schedule?

As students, we were told that a fashion show was the end goal, but financially, it can be nearly impossible to achieve when you first start. The world has changed so much since I was in school, and it is great that designers can create a community via Instagram. I like the idea of drops over the traditional seasonal schedule because I can pivot quickly based on my client’s wants and needs.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I find my inspiration everywhere. I am a sponge for visuals, saving anything and everything that makes me happy or intrigued. I often pull from a feeling I get from a beautiful movie or a style of architecture.

What’s one piece that is especially meaningful to you from your new collection and why?

There is something so timelessly classic yet still modern about my shirt dress from this season, and that brings me a lot of happiness. It is an item that feels easy, seasonless and simply chic. I love the idea that you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort.

What do you think is the eternal appeal of bows?

Bows can often be seen as childish, but there is something very timeless and elegant about them. I love how they are often seen as decorative, feminine and delicate but can be used in a functional way. Pretty and practical are a beautiful combination.

What is your favourite and least favourite trend this season?

I really like the preppy trend. There is something so polished yet cool about how people do it — it isn’t uptight and stuffy.

I am ready to never see athleisure ever again. I understand people want comfort, but I cannot wrap my head around why people are seemingly always wearing clothes fit for a yoga class when they aren’t doing a yoga class.

How would you describe Toronto’s style?

I see Toronto’s style as eclectic. There are so many cultures and people from all different cities and countries melded together. It is a revolving door of different aesthetics, which I find inspiring.

What are you watching or reading right now?

I am a big TV and movie person, so the list is embarrassingly long. Currently, my notable top five are The White Lotus, Master, Suspiria, Euphoria and Fleabag.

What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?

Photography by Peter Nguyen

1/5

Aritzia Men’s Puffer Coat

The Super Puff Men's

($275, Aritzia)

Buy Now

2/5

Sonos One Speaker

One

($269, Sonos)

Buy Now

3/5

Matthew Gallagher White Shirt Dress

The Shirt Dress

($470, Matthew Gallagher)

Buy Now

4/5

Sketchboard Pro for iPad

Sketchboard Pro for iPad

($161, Sketchboard Pro)

Buy Now

5/5

Roborock Vacuum and Mop

Roborock S7 MaxV

($2,391.97, Amazon)

Buy Now

The post This Canadian Designer Reinvented the Shirt Dress appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Included in our list of Canadian jewellery brands are industry veterans like Biko and Ecksand, newcomers like Steff Eleoff and Cyntia Miglio, and CAFA winner, Melanie Auld Jewellery. Given the small-scale production among many of our favourite local brands, there’s a focus on sustainability as well as the use of recycled material. Just look to Vancouver-based Wolf Circus, which uses recycled silver and bronze throughout its collections.

Whether you’re looking for your next pair of statement earrings or hunting for a piece that will one day become an heirloom, here are 30 Canadian jewellery brands you should check out.

1/30

Melanie Auld

Duo Tennis Bracelet

($115, Melanie Auld)

Buy Now

2/30

Cuchara

Mia Ring

($98, Cuchara)

Buy Now

3/30

Warren Steven Scott

Remixed ~ Salish Chandelier

($70, Warren Steven Scott)

Buy Now

4/30

Wolf Circus

Zoie Bracelet in Blue and Sterling Silver

($125, Wolf Circus)

Buy Now

5/30

Par Ici

Juicy Wavy Hoop Drops

($159, Par Ici)

Buy Now

6/30

Vitaly

Decibel

($117, Vitaly)

Buy Now

7/30

Vimeria

Decca Necklace

($195, Vimeria)

Buy Now

8/30

Lover’s Tempo

Twinkle Dome Ring

($110, Lover's Tempo)

Buy Now

9/30

This is Ilk

Brugmansia Earrings

($86, This is Ilk)

Buy Now

10/30

Suetables

Spanger Necklace

($99, Suetables)

Buy Now

11/30

Lisa Gozlan

BR052

($128, Lisa Gozlan)

Buy Now

12/30

Steff Eleoff

Baby Cuff

($200, Steff Eleoff)

Buy Now

13/30

Ora-C

Eye of Tauri Necklace

($290, Ora-C)

Buy Now

14/30

Jewel and Aces

Marquise Studs

($59, Jewel and Aces)

Buy Now

15/30

Noren

Ring 8524 30 - Polished

($450, Noren)

Buy Now

16/30

Mejuri

Gemstone Charm Stacker Ring

($98, Mejuri)

Buy Now

17/30

Lo’Bat

Golestaneh Earrings

($95, Lo'Bat)

Buy Now

18/30

Ecksand

Curved Diamond Necklace

($1,235, Ecksand)

Buy Now

19/30

Soft and Sticky

Energy Ring

($165, Soft and Sticky)

Buy Now

20/30

Erica Leal

Cynthia Bangle

($670, Erica Leal)

Buy Now

21/30

Dean Davidson

Petit Pave Statement Drop Earrings

($285, Dean Davidson)

Buy Now

22/30

Jenny Bird

Constance Wrap Chain

($135, Jenny Bird)

Buy Now

23/30

Twenty Compass

Mirage Ring

($60, Twenty Compass)

Buy Now

24/30

Laurie Flemming

Nectar Earring

($298, Laurie Flemming)

Buy Now

25/30

Biko

Amphora Collar

($415, Biko)

Buy Now

26/30

Anne Dahl

The Feast Earrings

($360, Anne Dahl)

Buy Now

27/30

Indi City

Blanket Design: Lilac

($60, Indi City)

Buy Now

28/30

G.Sherman

Petit Bracelet Crystal

($175, G.Sherman)

Buy Now

29/30

Cat Janiga

Astraea Burst Earring

($485, Cat Janiga)

Buy Now

30/30

Enamoured

Necklace Snake - Brass Chain

($335, Enamoured)

Buy Now

The post 30 Canadian Jewellery Brands You Need to Know appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

It’s the most wonderful (and potentially stressful, expensive and chaotic!) time of year again. Ahead of Black Friday, on November 25, and Cyber Monday, on November 28, we’ve rounded up the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals from Canadian brands. The sheer volume of BF/CM sales can be overwhelming — and dangerous on the wallet — so we’re here to help you narrow down the juiciest Black Friday Cyber Monday 2022 finds across style, beauty, wellness and home, for everyone on your holiday shopping list (including you).

STYLE

Aldo

From November 21 to 30, shoppers can take advantage of up to 50% off. 

BonLook

From November 21 to 30, the eyewear brand will be offering select frames for 20%, 50% and 70% off. On Cyber Monday (November 28), they will have special online only offers as well.

Clearly
From November 23 to 29, save up to 90% off frames and 40% off lenses, plus get your second frame free. Additionally, the brand is offering 25% off contact lenses orders of $99 and over, plus free shipping.
Dean Davidson

From November 23 to 28, enjoy 30% off site-wide, with additional limited time, daily offers from November 25 to 28.

Encircled

From 9am EST on November 21 until 11:59pm EST on November 28, customers can save an additional 20% off the entire Black Friday collection. The discount code BLACKFRIDAY22 is automatically applied at checkout. From 12:01am EST on November 25 to November 28, there will be daily flash sales that will each last for 24 hours wherein Customers will be able to save 30% off select styles each day.

Good For Sunday

From November 16 to 23, get an exclusive discount code supplied for 25% off F/W and BodyBreak collections and 50% off everything site-wide during the brand’s “Early Access Website” sale (for email or text subscribers only). From November 24 to 29, shoppers can use Good for Sunday’s “Tiered Discounts” site-wide (10% off $100+, 15% off $150+, 20% off $200+).

Herschel Supply

30% off site-wide and in store, including the brand’s “Last Chance” sale section where shoppers will receive an additional 30% off sale pricing. The sale lasts from November 19 to 28, with an early access code for email subscribers to shop early on November 18.

Knix

Shoppers can enjoy 20% off site-wide with prices as marked and no promo code required from November 23 at 12pm EST until November 28. (Exclusions: Revolution Bra, Knixteen (KT) products, period kits, Life After Birth book and gift cards.

La Daje

Take 20% off site-wide (some exclusions apply) from November 25 at 12am through November 27 at 11:59pm. On Cyber Monday only, take up to 50% off site-wide (some exclusions apply).

Livøm

From November 23 to 28, get 30% off all sweaters, shirts & coats as well as 50% of other clothing site-wide and in stores. Additionally, shoppers can treat themselves to 20% off all furniture and décor, plus free shipping on all items. 

Mejuri

The beloved jewellery brand is offering 20% off everything, excluding gift cards, with a minimum spend of $150 CAD before tax.
Online, the private sale for e-mail subscribers only takes place from November 21 to 22  (you just have to sign up before to qualify). The online sale opens to the public from November 23 to 28. And all retail shoppers can enjoy the deal in-person from November 21 to 28. 

Moose Knuckles

From November 18 to 28, the outerwear brand is offering up to 40% off site-wide.

Oak + Fort 

As a pre-Black Friday offer, take 20% off everything in store + online from November 21 to November 24.

Paris Jewellers

The Canadian brand is offering up to 70% off store-wide until November 28. This includes: 15% off Eternal Engagement rings, Lab-Created, Disney, Star Wars and Netflix jewelry; 25% off all Gold jewelry, Diamonds and Gemstones; 30% off Tungsten, Titanium and Cobalt, as well as Citizen, Bulova watches; 40% off Silver and Gucci watches; 70% off Stainless Steel.

Tanya Taylor

Tanya Taylor is offering 30% off site-wide from November 21 to 28.

The Bay

From November 18 to 29, enjoy up to 60% off (including clearance!). Plus, save an extra 20% off clearance items in store only. From November 25 to 29, shoppers can indulge in five days of savings with up to 60% off women’s and men’s clothing, up to 30% off on select beauty products, and free and fast shipping. From November 28 to 29, receive an exclusive Gift With Purchase with a $175 beauty purchase and save up to 25% off select beauty brands.

Trigs + Teddy

From November 21 to 28, the chic pet accessory brand’s entire product range is available for 40% off with the code BLACK40.

Yoga Jeans

Shop and save 50% off a large selection of premium quality jeans and loungewear until November 28.

BEAUTY & GROOMING

Auraïha

The entire product range is available for 15% off on November 25 only.

B. Beautiful 

From November 25 to 28, shoppers can enjoy a 25% discount on all products from B. Beautiful by using the code BLACKFRIDAY25.

Chatters

From November 17 to 29, save 30% in store and online (some exclusions apply). On November 29, Giving Tuesday, 10% of all sales (up to $25,000) will be donated to RMHC. 

Extra Goodie

From November 25 at 12am EST until November 26 at 3am EST, use the code BLACKFRIDAY22 for 40% off any purchase. On November 28, use the code CYBER22BOGO for Buy One Get One at 50% off (purchase any two items and get the second of equal or lesser value at 50% off). The Cyber Monday sale will be live from November 28 at 12am EST until November 29 at 3am EST.

Ghlee

Enjoy 25% off site-wide with a discount applied at checkout until Cyber Monday night. 

Lip Lab

20% off reservations booked from November 25 to 28 with the code FRIENDS20. 20% off weekday bookings Monday through Thursday with the code WEEKDAY20.

Crawford Street Skin Care

The Toronto-based brand that sells 100% natural products will be offering 20% off site-wide from November 25 to 30.

Hereward Farms

Shoppers can take over 15% off Hereward Farms bundles on Black Friday. 

Province Apothecary

Take 40% off site-wide from November 25 to 28.

Regimen Lab

30% off site-wide and 25% off kits with the code BFCM22. Plus, free shipping over $50. 

Schaf Skincare

Schaf is offering 25% off storewide for the month of November.

WAXON Laser + Wax Bar

Wildcraft

The Canadian natural skincare brand is offering a sliding scale Black Friday promo: Spend $75, get 5% off site-wide; spend $100, get 10% off site-wide; spend $125, get 15% off site-wide. It runs from November 24 to November 28. 

WELLNESS

B Yoga

The popular yoga brand’s entire product range is available for up to 60% off.

Dans un Jardin

From November 15 to 28, the Quebec-based bath, body and home scented goods brand pays the taxes on all orders site-wide. On November 28 only, get free shipping on all purchases. 

Halfmoon

The entire product range is available for up to 60% off

Nixit

Take 20% site-wide on individual products from Black Friday to Cyber Monday.

Saje

From November 23 to 27, take 20% off everything online and in-store and 30% off select products. The wellness brand is offering additional special deals during Black Friday week. From November 21 to 24: Mindful Holiday Pocket Farmacy, $45 with $50 spend (reg. $65.00);  on November 25: Physical Holiday Pocket Farmacy $45 with $50 spend (reg. $65.00); from November 26 and 27: Reflexology Rituals Kit (launching November 15th), $26 with $40 spend. (reg. $36). On Cyber Monday (November 28), online only, the 20% off everything and 30% off select products deal continues with the addition of the Dream Team Kit for $30 with $40 spend (reg. $48.00).

Selv Rituel

From November 25 to 28, receive a free sample of the Botanical Bath And Body Oil Rituel Nordique as well as 20% site-wide with every purchase of $75 before taxes. Bonus: the brand is offering free shipping on all purchases.

HOME

Cozy Earth

The brand’s Black Friday sale, running from November 15 to 27, provides a 30-35% off site-wide discount on bedding (excluding their new silk collection). Lucky shoppers can use the code NEWSILK for 30% off our brand-new silk collection until December 15. 

One Wednesday

From November 16 to 30, the Vancouver-based brand is offering 20% off throws, dresses and robes, automatically applied at checkout while supplies last. They’re also offering $5 gift wrapping in sustainable branded totes.

Socco Living

From November 23 to 28, all in-store and online orders will be up to 50% off. Enjoy 15% on all the furniture, mirrors and sofas and 20% on everything else, with up to 50% off on select products.

Sundays

From November 10 to 28 at 11:59pm PST, take up to 20% off everything, excluding the Movie Night™ and Get Together™ collections.

Tacit

Enjoy a 20% off site-wide discount as well as a complimentary gift-with-purchase via the brand’s online gift shop.

The post 30+ Canadian Brands To Shop This Cyber Monday appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

“It was such an honour to model on the opening night of FAT,” shares Monika via email. “Everyone was nice and fun to work with, and I felt strong, brave and beautiful in my outfit.”

The Toronto talent reveals that growing up, she’s had a soft spot for clothes and dressing up, but that her “aha” modelling moment didn’t appear until her teens. While watching a movie, Monika commented on how beautiful one of the actresses was. Her mom, Stephanie replied, “You think so?” to which Monika earnestly responded, “Mom, every woman is beautiful!” This prompted Stephanie to ask her daughter if she’d like to explore more opportunities in the spotlight, and Monika replied with an enthusiastic yes.

“Monika has always viewed having Down syndrome as only one part of her identity,” writes the model’s mother. “She has never let it define who she is.” Nor should she. It’s no secret that the fashion industry has a diversity problem but in recent years, things have started to change. In 2020, Ellie Goldstein, another model with Down syndrome, became the face of Gucci beauty and an Instagram post featuring her became the brand’s most liked image ever. And Madeline Stuart has been featured in a multitude of magazines since 2015.

Monika considers both of them to be role models. “They don’t allow their condition to limit themselves from doing what they love,” she says, but reiterates that she finds inspiration and beauty from all women everywhere. “We all look a little different but that’s what’s so beautiful about everyone.”

 

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A post shared by Monika Myers (@monikamyers08)

Stephanie wholeheartedly agrees, adding that models like Monika “not only represent people with Down syndrome but people with visible differences and disabilities.” She continues: “Historically, I think it was ignorance or lack of awareness that caused misconceptions or stereotyping. But society has gradually become more educated, compassionate and accepting of others.”

Looking to the future, this Gen Z groundbreaker hopes to continue her journey as a model and inspire others like her along the way. She’s even created a bracelet business called “I am Brave and Beautiful” as a physical reminder to always pursue your passion. “I love this dream and I’m going to take it as far as it goes,” Monika shares.  After all, you’re only young once.

The post Monika Myers is the First Model with Down Syndrome To Walk This Toronto Runway appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

There are a lot of reasons to love fashion designer Lesley Hampton: she’s beyond talented, she’s an advocate for the Indigenous community, she was great as a guest judge on Canada’s Drag Race…the list goes on. But the most recent reason for our appreciation for the Indigenous designer is her empowering statement at Fashion Art Toronto. On November 10, the Lesley Hampton runway kicked off the Toronto event with one of the most diverse presentations we’ve ever seen. Not only was the BIPOC community represented, her model lineup included LGBTQ2S+ talent (queer style icon and HIV/Aids advocate Myles Sexton looked fabulous in sequins and towering heels), extended sizes, women with physical disabilities and Monika Myers making her debut as the first model with Down Syndrome to walk the FAT runway. “The runway is more than a showcase of just clothing, it is a critique on society,” Hampton shares via email. “I believe in investing in and supporting inclusivity in all forms that accurately reflects Canadian society. If we can see bodies like ours take up space in landscapes that have previously shamed and excluded us, it greatly effects our mental health and body image.”

Sperry collaborates with Warm & Wonderful on a Princess Diana sheep sweater and shoes

Does this print look familiar? If you’re a Princess Diana devotee, you’ll recognize the now infamous “Black Sheep” sweater she wore in 1981. So it’s very fitting that just in time for the release of season 5 of The Crown, Sperry has teamed up with Warm & Wonderful on a collection of sheep-inspired shoes and sweaters. Available in four colours, these items make the perfect gift for the Royal connoisseur in your life.

Toronto’s World AIDS Day Ball will be the largest in Canadian history

If you thought last year’s World AIDS Day Ball was good, wait until you see what’s next. For the uninitiated, the annual event is part fundraiser and part party, raising awareness for HIV programming at Maggie’s Toronto while simultaneously celebrating the Black, queer and ballroom communities. With over $20,000 in cash prizes and more than 1,200 attendees, the World AIDS Day Ball: Celestial Beings is set to be the largest ball in Canadian history, so be sure to book your tickets now.

The Bay releases their second collection with The Raptors

Sports and fashion have always had a special relationship, and The Bay’s partnership with The Raptors exemplifies just that. For their second drop, the retailer and the NBA team have released 15 new pieces featuring the iconic Raptors logo and a new interpretation of The Bay’s stripes. What’s more, 100 per cent of net proceeds are going to Hudson’s Bay Foundation Charter for Change, an initiative with the goal of accelerating racial equity in Canada.

Paris Jewellers unveils new lab-grown diamonds

To paraphrase Marilyn, lab-grown diamonds are a girl’s best friend, so luckily, Edmonton’s Paris Jewellers is here to help. The Canadian brand’s new offering includes engagement rings and other styles made using 14 karat recycled gold and gemstones created in state-of-the-art laboratories. Plus, for every piece sold, Paris Jewellers will plant one tree in Canada to help regions affected by forest fires.

Canada’s Cakeworthy Celebrates Barbie

In honour of the 30th anniversary of the Barbie® Totally Hair™ Doll, Canadian brand Cakeworthy is partnering with the iconic toy on a 15-piece capsule collection. The collaboration includes a vibrant mix of 1980s nostalgia blended with 2022 styles, like a denim jacket, plaid shirt, vest, purse and more. And you can bet there’s lots and lots of pink. After all, life in plastic is fantastic!

Adidas comes to Indigo

 

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Indigo isn’t your average bookstore — it’s become a lifestyle mecca. And with their latest partnership with Adidas, its fashionable reach has gotten even more expansive. Starting this week, a selection of adult and kids Adidas apparel and accessories will be available to shop in-store and online. Also, be sure to shop the Adidas x LEGO collab, housed exclusively at Indigo.

The post Lesley Hampton’s Latest Runway Show Celebrated Diversity + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

 

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A post shared by INLAND (@made_inland)

It’s never too early to start thinking about holiday shopping, and Inland x Bayview Village promises to be your one-stop shop for fashionable homegrown gifts. Beginning on November 2, the curated Canadian marketplace will collaborate with the Toronto boutique mall to host a fall/winter 2022 pop-up. Open until December 27, the space will feature over 50 Canadian brands, including Ahiri, Vimeria and more.

Nordstrom welcomes Indigenous footwear brand Manitobah

Trust Manitobah to know a thing or two about keeping your feet warm during the winter. And thanks to its new partnership with Nordstrom, it’s never been easier to shop this Indigenous footwear brand. This week the luxury department store welcomed Manitobah and its latest collection to the Nordstrom lineup by inviting Indigenous storyteller and activist Sarain Fox to host a series of performances at various locations. The result was a celebration of Indigenous culture and a great way to kick off the brand’s Nordstrom debut.

Choose your own adventure with Sonya Lee’s new collection

A person’s handbag says a lot about them. Do you need your whole life to fit into a tote? Or are you more of an “I just need my phone and wallet” type? Either way, Vancouver’s Sonya Lee has got you covered. The Canadian designer added three new items to her namesake brand’s assortment, the Camia Patchwork, Jamie Bowling and Kym Pochette, all of which are ethically and sustainably handmade. Whatever style you choose, you can feel confident that you’ll look good and be doing good.

Bottega Veneta now offers a lifetime warranty on its bags

For most of us, buying a designer bag is a big commitment. Bottega Veneta understands this and is launching The Certificate of Craft, a lifetime warranty program that offers clients refresh, repair and replacement of their bag throughout its lifespan. Starting in November, be sure to check out your local store for more information about the initiative and while you’re there, why not treat yourself to something from the Italian brand’s fall offering?

Indigenous streetwear brand Section 35 is coming to Footlocker

In case you haven’t heard, Foot Locker is no longer just for shoes — it’s become a mecca for streetwear, too. With that in mind, the retailer is teaming up with CAFA-nominated Indigenous brand Section 35, founded by Justin Louis and based on the unceded territories of the Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, on an exclusive collection of apparel and headwear. Expect bold pieces in even bolder colours, ranging from $40-$250.

The post All-Canadian Marketplace Inland Pops Up in Toronto + More Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

But as she will tell you, being a designer in Canada is hard; lasting as a Canadian designer is even harder. “It kind of feels like a small miracle,” Faulkner shares via email of her namesake brand’s birthday. “This is a tough industry to be in, and there were many times I thought I’d give up. I’m proud to have made it this far!”

Below, the Canadian talent talks about Eliza Faulkner’s 10th anniversary, her unexpected love of rugby shirts and the show that’s currently bringing her joy.

How would you describe the style of the Eliza Faulkner brand in three words?

Bold, feminine, playful.

What’s something about your brand that would surprise people?

We make everything in Montreal, and every pattern and style is developed in our studio.

Congrats on Eliza Faulkner’s 10th anniversary! What’s one thing you wish you had known at the beginning?

I wish I knew a bit more about business. Design is really only about five per cent of what I do each day. I made so many expensive mistakes in the early days, so I wish I’d been less blind to the business side.

How do you find new inspiration after 10 years?

Finding it is never a problem — ideas are absolutely everywhere. Editing them down and getting focused on one idea for each collection is the hardest part for me.

What’s one piece that is especially meaningful to you from your new collection and why?

I love the rugby top. Growing up, one of my best friends had a family that was super involved in rugby, so I spent a lot of time watching it and hanging out at her rugby club. I grew up in a small, sporty town, and while I hated playing team sports, the outfits constantly inspired me. Our take on the rugby top has a frilly white collar, and I would have loved to wear this when I was younger, and now!

 

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A post shared by Eliza Faulkner (@elizafaulkner)

What do you think is the eternal appeal of an oversized collar?

Big collars are feminine and super youthful (they verge on childish), but at the same time, they’re like a piece of armour — they’re bold, obvious, and loud. They make me feel protected, and they take up space.

What is your favourite and least favourite trend this season?

I love everything Y2K because that’s when I started getting into fashion as a teenager. It’s really fun to wear these pieces again but with a more grown-up flavour and a lot more confidence than I had at 16. However, there’s one item I can live without from that time, and it’s low-rise jeans. I think most millennial women will agree when they say they can’t go back to low-rise jeans. We’ve all been liberated, and I think it’s a trend that will die quickly.

How would you describe Montreal’s style?

I would say Montreal’s style is creative, practical, and totally unhinged. In the winter, it can be really functional (for obvious reasons), but in the summer, people take the opportunity to show off.

What are you currently watching or reading?

I just finished watching Blown Away on Netflix — a competition series about glass blowing. It’s an art form I didn’t know much about, and I loved seeing what they came up with each episode. It’s terrifying to see how quickly their work can just break. At least when you make clothes, you can unpick them and go back if you need to.

What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?

Photography courtesy of Heirloom Hats

Photography courtesy of Maguire

Photography courtesy of Eliza Faulkner

Photography courtesy of Promise Me Everything

Photography courtesy of Dora Larsen

1/5

Heirloom Hats Bucket Hat

Fuzzyroquai

($130, Heirloom Hats)

“I am always swapping clothes for hats with Sam from Heirloom Hats. She has a beautiful shop here in Montreal, and everything she makes is impeccable and fun. I just got a fuzzy Jamiroquai-style hat from her for winter.”

Buy Now

2/5

Maguire Boots

Biella Klein Chelsea Boot

($295, Maguire)

“I started wearing colourful shoes this year, and it’s really hard to wear neutral shoes now. I’m hoping to get these Maguire boots for the winter.”

Buy Now

3/5

Eliza Faulkner Dress

Mandy Dress

($395, Eliza Faulkner)

“I’ve been wearing the Mandy dress a lot from my own brand. Naturally, it has a giant collar. It can be worn as a dress, but it’s also cute and very Y2K with a pair of flared pants.”

Buy Now

4/5

Promise Me Everything Kid’s Tee

Mock Neck Tee Print Polka Dot Clouds

($52, Promise Me Everything)

“My friend in Montreal launched a really cute kids brand called Promise Me Everything. I’m always looking for fun things for my kids, and this is perfect. I just got the cloud set for my son, and my daughter will wear it after!”

Buy Now

5/5

Dora Larsen bra

Orla Lace Underwire Bra

($62, Dora Larsen)

“After two kids, there’s nothing like wearing nice lingerie again. I just discovered a British lingerie brand called Dora Larsen. Beige bras make me really sad, but the colour combinations of these bras and undies are bold and bright. They’re also beautifully made and comfortable. I bought this recently, and I love it!”

Buy Now

The post This Canadian Designer Will Always Love Oversized Collars appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

If there was one big takeaway from the night, it was this: being a creative person is hard, and being an indigenous creative person is even harder. But by lifting each other up, designers, hairstylists, makeup artists and others working in the fashion industry can help make each others’ dreams come true.

Winner after winner marched onstage and told the packed ballroom about persevering against the odds – especially geographical ones. In their acceptance speech, digital fashion creator Myles Sexton talked about being from a town of fewer than 2,000 people in Nova Scotia. Makeup Artist of the Year Viktor Peters shared that he was from a Mennonite community in Mexico. Fresh Face of the Year winner Willow Allen hails from Inuvik. Model of the Year Awar Odhiang acknowledged her parents’ sacrifice by moving their family from Ethiopia. And Changemakers George Sully and Sage Paul highlighted challenges within the black and indigenous communities they each support.

If that makes the night sound heavy, well, it was anything but. The mood on the red carpet was undeniably joyful, and the aesthetics were abundant. Many went the more traditional Cotillion Ball route and sashayed into the venue wearing layers of sequins, tulle and satin. Popular TikTok “cores” also appeared in the form of Y2K, Barbiecore, Regencycore and Indie Sleaze. And menswear was a hot topic, as slacks were happily traded for skirts.

But our pick for best dressed of the night goes to Sage Paul. The winner of the Changemaker Award wore a jaw-dropping and revealing red sparkly gown, courtesy of Canadian designer L’Uomo Strano, and accessorized the look with a beaded bag by Catherine Blackburn x Melanie LeBlanc.

 

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A post shared by Catherine Blackburn (@catherinebjewellery)

Made in collaboration with Skye Paul of Running Fox Beads, the tote is an interpretation of a traditional Indigenous “hunting bag.” It’s also designed to play with the idea of throwaway culture by mimicking a plastic grocery store bag with the repeated Indigenous phrase “mahsi cho” — Dene for thank you.

Take a look for yourself as FASHION rounded up the top red carpet picks from the CAFA Awards 2022.

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Sage Paul. Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

Photography by George Pimentel

1/51

Myles Sexton

2/51

Grace Mahary

3/51

Christian Allaire

4/51

CAFA President Vicky Milner

5/51

FASHION’s Bernadette Morra with Pattie Mallette

6/51

FASHION’s George Antonopoulos

7/51

Kathryn Bowen

8/51

Fefe Dobson

9/51

George Sully

10/51

Sage Paul

11/51

FASHION’s Annika Lautens

12/51

Amanda Brugel

13/51

Kevin Quang Thai Nguyen

14/51

Joey Gollish

15/51

Willow Allen

16/51

17/51

Sasha Exeter

18/51

The Beckerman Twins

19/51

Viktor Peter

20/51

21/51

Lisa Corbo

22/51

Awar Odhiang

23/51

Mina Gerges

24/51

Lauren Chan

25/51

26/51

27/51

28/51

29/51

Elisapie

30/51

31/51

32/51

33/51

Riley Kucheran

34/51

Mari-Éve

35/51

36/51

Christi Himmelheber

37/51

38/51

Dani Matte

39/51

40/51

41/51

Sarain Fox

42/51

43/51

Tyler Franch

44/51

Liv Judd

45/51

46/51

Dylan Cruickshank

47/51

48/51

Emefa Kuadey

49/51

50/51

Pattie Mallette

51/51

Bassel, Firas and Rami Atallah

See all the winners at cafaawards.ca.

The post Major Style Moments From the Biggest Night in Canadian Fashion appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

After two years of pandemic-induced slumber, the fundraiser roared back to life with a party that combined art, performance and avant-garde fashion by some of Canada’s most creative designers. “All Out” was the theme for the event held on September 29 in Toronto, and everyone brought it. Guests busted out the sequins, ruffles and, in one case, monarch butterflies. Martina Sorbara and her band Dragonette ignited the Walker Court dance floor. And artworks commissioned for the occasion by Scott Benesiinaabandan, Patrick Cruz, Anna Lucia, Dan Mazzone and Howie Tsui dazzled inside and outside and even served as “wallpaper” in one of the elevators that took VIP ticket holders up to dinner.

Pre-COVID the AGO held two annual fundraisers: the high-end Art Bash! supported by museum patrons and corporate sponsors, and the much more raucous AGO Massive which targeted a millennial crowd with a more accessible ticket price. The new Art Bash! brings the two groups together in a lively and colourful way.

CAFA president Vicky Milner and FASHION creative and fashion director George Antonopoulos collaborated on an “installation” of mind-boggling fashions that included looks from Next in Fashion’s Charles Lu, Tristan Réhel, L’uomo Strano by Mic Carter, Moskal Studio, Uncuffed Leather, Ali Haider Couture and more. Ooohs and ahhs couldn’t help but escape the audiences’ lips as models posed in towering tulle gowns, gender-bending suits and illuminated hats, all styled by Ashley Galang.

And those who were lucky enough to get close to the models (or just had excellent eye-sight) were treated to a visual feast of flashy hair and makeup, courtesy of Leandro Avanco and his team. Feathery fake eyelashes, colourful gemstone freckles, and gothic lipstick lent themselves perfectly to the event’s theme, contributing to the overall “wow” factor of the evening.

See for yourself in the gallery below, where we’ve rounded up some of the most memorable looks from the 2022 AGO Art Bash!

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

Photography by Ryan Emberley

1/33

Claire McNamara

2/33

Janice Fricker

3/33

Bernadette Morra

4/33

Lily Li

5/33

Sabrina Maddeaux

6/33

George Antonopoulos and Vicky Milner

7/33

Damali Austin

8/33

Daniel Abichandani

9/33

Candice Sinclair and Mick Gordic

10/33

Darcy Morris, Sonja Berman and Stephan Jost

11/33

Fernanda Dovigi and Lina Policaro

12/33

Trinity Jackman and Rochelle de Goias

13/33

Marissa and Moez Kassam

14/33

Maxine Granovsky and Ira Gluskin

15/33

Annika Lautens and Mr.Haque

16/33

17/33

Andrew Kushnir and Nolan Bryant

18/33

Jenna Bitove Naumovich

19/33

Madeline Tedesco

20/33

Martina Sorbara and Cory Vitiello

21/33

Darcy Morris and Shelly Avital

22/33

Mic. Carter

23/33

Design by L’uomo Strano.

Earrings by Vimeria X Dina Roudman

24/33

Design by Tristan Réhel

Earrings by Vimeria X Dina Roudman. Shoes by Aldo

25/33

Design by Tristan Réhel

Shoes by Aldo

26/33

Design by Tristan Réhel

Earrings by Vimeria X Dina Roudman. Shoes by Aldo

27/33

Design by Tristan Réhel

Shoes by Aldo

28/33

Design by Charles Lu

29/33

Design by Ali Haider Couture

Shoes by Aldo

30/33

Design by Charles Lu

31/33

Design by Ali Haider Couture

32/33

Design by L’uomo Strano. Harness by UNCUFFED

33/33

Design by Moskal

The post If Toronto Wants a Met Gala, the AGO’s Art Bash! Has Potential appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

When Canadian intimates brand Knix first collaborated with content creator Sarah Nicole Landry of The Birds Papaya in 2020, the Knix x The Birds Papaya collection sold out in just 27 minutes! The most coveted item? The Papaya Leggings, which have just been re-released. The ultra-high-rise, shiny-coated Papaya Sculpt Legging promise to live up to their new name and redesign with new bonded panels cupping the rear for “lift and shape” and a compressing waistband panel to “support you in all the right places and complement the curves of your body.”

Mariah Carey brings drama to Chopard

Mariah Carey is anything if not dramatic, and you can be sure her collaboration with Chopard, Happy Butterfly, is fittingly over-the-top—and dripping with diamonds. The “Always Be My Baby” songstress co-created a butterfly-inspired diamond jewellery set which includes a necklace, a pair of earrings and a ring in Fairmined-certified ethical gold. Whether worn together or separate, the entire collection has us singing, “All I Want For Your Christmas Is You.”

David Dixon releases an arthritis-friendly capsule collection

This week marked the debut of renowned Canadian fashion designer David Dixon’s collaboration with the Arthritis Society Canada, called Fashion on Fire. Inspired by his niece, who has lived with the pain of arthritis since she was 14, Dixon created seven red gowns with no small buttons or back zippers to allow those suffering from the condition to dress with ease. What’s more, the designer teased he has more surprises in store for later this fall.

Fendi opens its first standalone Canadian boutique

It’s been a big week for Fendi. First, the 25th anniversary of its iconic Baguette bag, and now the opening of its first Canadian store at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. While the Italian luxury brand has been available at Holt Renfrew for years, this new boutique features 174 square meters of immersive Fendi finery, including the latest Women’s and Men’s Ready-to-Wear collections, shoes, accessories, and leather goods.

This new Louis Vuitton book pays tribute to Virgil Abloh

Few designers have left their mark as successfully as Virgil Abloh. Nearly a year after his death, his legacy is preserved in the beautiful new Assouline book Louis Vuitton: Virgil Abloh. Inside the anthology pages, fans will be pleased to discover an intimate portrait of a man born to break boundaries, in addition to an insider look at his eight menswear collections for the French house and a complete catalogue of the designer’s sneakers.

Jewellery designer Marla Aaron arrives at Holt Renfrew

If jewellery designer Marla Aaron isn’t on your radar yet, she should be. The New York City-based brand produces trendy, chunky pieces using various metals, stones and techniques and has quickly garnered much-deserved attention. Now Canadians can see the creations for themselves on September 22 at Holt Renfrew’s Toronto Bloor Street location. The trunk show is open from 11 am to 6 pm, and Marla is taking one-on-one appointments.

The post Knix x The Birds Papaya Leggings Are Back + More Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Enter Ahiri’s Fall 2022 assortment: a mix of colourful silks, ’90s-inspired plaids, space cowboys and statement-making coats. You aren’t alone if you spy some similarities to Proenza Schouler and The Row. Jafine worked at both before leaving New York City to return to his hometown. “Coming back to Toronto, I wanted to create a sense of excitement in the fashion industry as it’s slightly underdeveloped compared to the United States,” he shares. But when he arrived, he struggled to find a brand he could “personally vibe with.” As luck would have it, Ahiri was in its early stages, and Ali and Latif were looking for a creative force to take the reins. “It somehow landed in my lap, and it’s been an incredible opportunity.”

Below, we spoke with Jafine about combining the space cowboy aesthetic with British whimsy, his favourite piece from the new collection, and what five products are currently bringing him joy.

How would you describe the style of your brand in three words?

Elevated, timeless, mysterious.

What is something about your brand that would surprise people?

All of our pieces are made in Ahiri-owned factories in Bangladesh. There are a lot of preconceived notions about what manufacturing in Bangladesh looks like. At Ahiri, we take pride in our factories’ comprehensive approach to social and environmental wellbeing. They’re also Leed Gold Certified, the world’s most widely used sustainability-focused rating system, and they’re part of the Bangladesh Accord, ensuring a safe and healthy workplace.

What does Ahiri mean?

Our founders are from Bangladesh so it refers to a type of classical music from there. Ahiri music depicts the sweet sounds of the morning and the hope and promises that a new day brings. I think it’s very fitting for our brand because we are seeking to create a future in the fashion industry in Toronto, and it also sounds really delicious in your mouth.

Where do you find your inspiration?

It starts from a very personal place. I listen to a lot of classical music, and I like exploring the history of humanity and how the past can influence the present. But for Ahiri’s debut collection, I narrowed it down into three categories: British whimsy, all-American style, and seasonal inspiration, which for Fall 2022 is space cowboy. So it merges these international and North American aesthetics with my personal sensibilities and futurism-meets-Western feel.

What’s one piece that is especially meaningful to you from your new collection and why?

 

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The black-and-white square neck dress is truly a feat of complex engineering. In the design process, I took inspiration from butterflies and wanted to knit the symmetrical shapes into the actual garment. So to achieve it, we had to think innovatively about the production process, and I’m proud of our team for creating the final product.

What’s your top tip for wearing the Western look?

Layer! Ahiri’s pieces are designed to be mixed, matched, and layered. Also, add little Western touches like a cowboy boot, hat or a bedazzled buckle belt.

Favourite and least favourite trend this season?

Favourite: Obviously Western. Least favourite: The exposed whale-tail thong. We got to let it go and pull our pants up [laughs].

How would you describe Toronto’s style?

I’ve thought a lot about Toronto’s style when creating the Fall 2022 collection. There’s a sense of simplicity and conservatism mixed with a strong desire for personal expression and standing out. In general, the city has a balance of fashion enthusiasts and those who are disinterested in fashion.

What are you watching or reading right now?

Irma Vep. It’s a TV mini-series starring Alicia Vikander, based on a 1996 movie of the same title. It’s about a director recreating a famous French silent film, and it explores the protagonist’s struggles as the distinctions between herself, and the character begins to blur. And because I’m so inspired by time, I love exploring how we can integrate where we’ve been, where we are and where we want to go into one space and create something exciting for the future.

What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?

Photography courtesy of Alexander McQueen

Photography courtesy of Cartier

Photography courtesy of Mario Testino

Photography courtesy of Prada

Photography courtesy of Acne Studios

1/5

Alexander McQueen Vest

Sleeveless Embroidered Jacket

($13,080, Alexander McQueen)

Buy Now

2/5

Cartier Bracelet

Love Bracelet

($8,650, Cartier)

Buy Now

3/5

Kate Moss Book

Kate Moss by Mario Testino

($42, Indigo)

Buy Now

4/5

Prada Loafers

Monolith loafers

($1490, Prada)

Buy Now

5/5

Acne Studios Sunglasses

Acetate Sunglasses

($510, Acne Studios)

Buy Now

The post This Canadian Designer on the Space Cowboy Aesthetic appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

The awards gala will be held on Oct. 15 at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto.

“After two years of celebrating virtually, we are very much looking forward to gathering everyone together in-person to celebrate our industry and recognize the incredible talent we have here in Canada,” said CAFA’s President, Vicky Milner, who took to the stage at the breakfast reception to announce this year’s honourees, including the co-founders of SSENSE—Rami Atallah, Firas Atallah and Bassel Atallah—who are receiving the Outstanding Achievement Award “for their ground-breaking direct-to-consumer and retail innovation as well as the cultural influence they have garnered.”

Designer and founder of Fleur du Mal, Jennifer Zuccarini, will also be honoured with The International Canadian Designer Award for “her illustrious career and innovative approach to fashion.”

In addition to the full list of nominees across seventeen categories, Milner announced that applications are open for The Bay Fashion Fund, an initiative to support and foster emerging BIPOC designers and brands in Canada, from now till Sept. 8, at CAFAwards.ca. The fund will award the winning designer or brand with a grant of $25,000 and a three-year mentorship program. 

Without further ado, here are the nominees for CAFA 2022:

Womenswear Designer of the Year Award

Greta Constantine
LECAVALIER
UNTTLD
Hilary MacMillan
Silk Laundry

Menswear Designer of the Year Award

Mr. Saturday
SECTION 35
École de Pensée
Christopher Bates
Raised by Wolves

Award for Emerging Talent, Fashion

Adidem Asterisks
Kathryn Bowen
Lafaille
Maria Karimi
RVNG
Dorian Who

Award for Emerging Talent, Accessories

Jewels & Aces
Combinist Goods
Maguire
Mas
Steff Eleoff
Cyntia Miglio

Accessory Designer of the Year Award

L’intervalle
Biko
Maple
Ecksand
Melanie Auld Jewellery
Heirloom Hats

Outerwear Brand of the Year Award

Kanuk
Nobis
Quartz Co
Sentaler
Noize

Fashion Innovation Award

Blanka
BlackCart
Calico
FoldsWear

Fashion Design Student Award

Gabriel Paul Caron
Suki Chow
Kevin Quang Thai Nguyen
Lynne Hey
Mihaela Stoica

Image Maker of the Year Award

Renata Kaveh
Carlos Alyse
William Ukoh
Conor Cunningham
Justin Wu
Norman Wong

Stylist of the Year Award

Florence O. Durand
Nadia Pizzimenti
Nariman Janghorban
Amanada Lee Shirreffs
Skye Kelton
Georgia Groom

Fresh Face of the Year Award

Monywiir Deng
Belle Vanderkley
Mase Somonall
Willow Allen
Sihan Guo

Model of the Year Award

Ash Foo
Awar Odhiang
Kirsten Owen
Ariish Wol
Steph Shiu

Fashion Impact Award

Knix
Izzy Camilleri
Wide The Brand
Elita
Wuxly

Digital Fashion Creator Award

Laurence Fortin-Cote
Liv Judd
Myles Sexton
Sean Brown
Lexson Millington

The Sustainability Award

Triarchy
Kelly Drennan, Fashion Takes Action
Ecologyst
Bedi
Thesus
Wuxly

Makeup Artist of the Year Award

Leslie-Ann Thomson
Julie Cusson
Emily Cheng
Mimi Choi
Nisha Gulati
Viktor Peters

Hair Artist of the Year Award

Janet Jackson
Kirsten Klontz
Chanel Crocker
Matthew Collins
Kristjan Hayden

The post CAFA 2022 Nominees: The Full List of Canada’s Top Talent in Fashion and Beyond appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

The best part of Barbie’s dream house? Her closet, of course! And while we’ll never actually be able to sample the doll’s hot pink wardrobe, the Hilary MacMillan Barbie collection comes pretty close. The Canadian vegan and cruelty-free brand has collaborated with the iconic Mattel toy on the nostalgic 15-piece collection ‘Shades of Pink.’ Each piece features references to Barbie through generations, and the capsule includes  pins made in collaboration with Canadian jewellery designer Biko. To mark the launch on August 11, MacMillan opened its first-ever pop-up concept store at 131 Bloor Street West in Toronto that “transports visitors into a luxe closet inspired by Barbie.”

Virgil Abloh’s legacy is celebrated at Nordstrom

Designer Virgil Abloh, who died in November, was best known for injecting optimism and innovation into everything he touched. So to celebrate the fashion icon, New Concepts@Nordstrom is partnering with his estate on the pop-up Concept 018: Virgil Abloh Securities. Available at Nordstrom Pacific Centre and on Nordstrom.ca, the shop within a shop features a range of women’s and men’s ready-to-wear apparel, shoes and accessories, and an exclusive Off-White Capsule.

The Levi’s x Ganni collection is perfect for the last days of summer

Just because “third time’s the charm” is a cliché doesn’t mean it’s not true. And in the case of  Levi’s x GANNI, each time has been utterly charming. Their third collaboration, which made its debut at Copenhagen Fashion Week, is inspired by Mother Nature. The eight-piece collection is made with 55 per cent certified organic cotton and natural dyes and already has quite the famous fan base, as the campaign features Emma Chamberlain and friends. Expect elevated essentials for the last few days of summer, from pink jeans to a denim vest, available for purchase on August 18.

Go swimming with Londre x Briony Douglas

Is anyone else feeling panicked that summer is almost over? Make the most of the next few weeks with Londre Bodywear’s swimsuit collaboration with Toronto artist Briony Douglas. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or swimming laps in a pool, the Vancouver brand has got you covered with a variety of bikinis, tankinis and one-piece options, all available in Douglas’s whimsical print. You can also feel good about the purchase because, to date, Londre Bodywear has recycled 750,000 plastic bottles with its sustainable offerings.

Heaven by Marc Jacobs gets the Bladee treatment

Even if you’ve never heard of Swedish multihyphenate Benjamin Reichwald (also known as Bladee), you’ll still be able to appreciate his collab with Heaven by Marc Jacobs, the designer’s diffusion line. The nine-piece capsule collection marries street style with technicolour designs and was inspired by Reichwald’s mixed media artwork. What’s more, the campaign was shot by the Swede’s photographer friend Hendrik Schneider and features fellow musicians Baby Sosa and Oklou.

Allbirds arrives in Toronto

With an environmentally conscious ethos and the current holder of “the world’s most comfortable shoes” courtesy of TIME, Allbirds has quickly become a fan favourite amongst anyone who appreciates ultra-cushioned footwear. The sustainable lifestyle brand has now opened a store in Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre, marking its second location in Canada. You can shop its full assortment of products IRL, including the newly launched Tree Flyer and Sugar Series.

The post Hilary MacMillan Does Barbiecore + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

But what really tipped me off to the fact that I’m tall is shopping for clothes. Mini skirts and dresses are virtually out of the question unless I want to pull a Paris Hilton circa 2004 and flash some unsuspecting bystanders. All jeans are ankle length, which can get particularly chilly in the winter. And finding a jacket that reaches my wrists is like trying to figure out who Gossip Girl is, and the result is similarly disappointing.

Enter Tall Size, an online fashion marketplace curated for tall women, created by Canadian Olympian and basketball player Kayla Alexander (6’4”), her sister Kesia (5’10”), and her childhood friend Nicole Murphy (6’0”). Tired of scouring the internet for “anything other than sweatpants” that would adequately fit them, the trio decided to tackle this problem themselves. And they’ve made serious strides. The platform currently hosts over 500 tall-friendly items (including extra-large shoes!) in various styles from about 21 different brands.

 

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“I grew up loving my height, but when it came to shopping, I hated it,” reveals Kayla. “Back to school shopping was horrible because all I could find that fit me were t-shirts and jewellery.” During our call, Nicole recalls a similar experience shopping for dresses for the school dance. “All my girlfriends would be swapping outfits, and I would literally be sitting in the corner waiting for everyone to finish getting ready because I knew I could only wear my own stuff. So I just avoided fashion altogether.”

Although they toyed with the idea of designing their own tall-specific clothing line, Nicole explains that during the initial research stage, they discovered quite a few smaller brands already catered to this market. The problem was the lack of exposure. “Tall women have it hard enough, so we wanted to do the research for them and bring all these brands together in one place,” says Nicole. Kayla adds: “It’s not just about our customer or us. We’re also helping small female-led businesses, so there’s a lot of women empowerment going on.”

As such, each piece of clothing added to the TallSize website has been vetted by its founders for quality and length. But one of their main focuses for the next year is to increase their options for extended sizes and trans women. “As we grow, we’re looking to get more women on our team representing different body types,” shares Kesia. “Tall women come in a variety of shapes and sizes too!”

And indeed, there’s something ironic about the fashion industry casting 5’9” and taller models but not adapting the clothing to fit the taller public. Gigi Hadid  and Kendall Jenner (both 5’10”) might wear a pair of pants perfectly, but when it comes time for other tall women to try them on, the pants look more like capris. Nicole, Kesia, Kayla and I label this frustration as “tall-washing,” based on the term “curve-washing,” a marketing tactic used by brands that include size-diverse models in ad campaigns or runways without actually selling those same sizes.

Now in fairness to big businesses, tall women only make up about 5 per cent of the world’s population, and most of them are likely from Scandinavia. However, that’s still roughly about 300 million people, so it’s a bit of a head-scratcher as to why tall women have been ignored for so long. But really, Tall Size’s goal from the very beginning has been to create a community. And even just speaking with the trio for a little less than an hour, I’m surprised by how therapeutic the experience is. It’s almost been like a group therapy session, where we’re all free to share our daily height-related struggles. “We always say that tall women are everywhere and nowhere at the same time,” begins Nicole. “So our mission is to give them a voice and make sure they’re seen, heard and understood.”

The post The Truth About Being Tall appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Four years after launching his namesake label in 2018, the designer has become a rising star in the Canadian fashion scene. “I’ve been building stuff my whole life, and one day when I was working a retail job, it just clicked that I could have a career where I can create things on a daily basis and incorporate my hobbies into it.” Since then, the George Brown College grad has become a bit obsessive with his craft and has bought every book on sewing and tailoring that he can get his hands on and even took an additional pattern drafting course focused on Italian techniques. However, he’ll always be a skater boy through and through. “Skateboarding is doing the same thing repeatedly and failing one thousand times. And then, eventually, you get how it works. The same is true with sewing, so I want to learn everything I can from the inside out.”

Below, FASHION chatted with Andrew Szewczyk about his style, why he loves the colour black and everything that currently brings him joy.

How would you describe the style of your brand in three words?

Shoulders, shape and anxiety.

What is something about your brand that would surprise people?

For those who work in fashion, it’s probably no surprise…I’m just one person developing and creating the collections. I collaborate with lovely friends on the visuals, but for the moment, I am the sole person taking care of everything clothes.

How do you come up with the names of your collections?

Most of them come from song titles because I play music in my studio, so it’s always on in the background. My Spring 2022 collection, ‘All These Too, I Love,’ is a slight variation of a William Basinski song. But I’ve also referenced video games for my Fall 2022 collection ‘Scrapper,’ and then Fall 2021 ‘Backbone’ was a collection about my youth and skateboarding.

Is there a reason why you use so much black?

I love old black and white editorials because there’s a real emphasis on shape. And in terms of inspiration, I start with the silhouette and add the details afterwards. So [the black] is about mirroring that and seeing the form of the garment from far away.

What’s one piece that is especially meaningful to you from your Fall 2022 collection, and why?

Going into the photo shoot for the collection, I knew the cropped blazer with the metallic stud buttons would look cool, but I didn’t expect it to have as big of a visual impact as it did. The look encapsulated everything I love about making clothes and embodied what I strive to achieve as a designer.

What’s your top tip for wearing a suit?

Don’t be afraid to wear a suit in your everyday life; just wear whatever you want.

Favourite and least favourite trend this season?

Trying to adhere and keep up with trends can be exhausting, so I don’t necessarily follow them. But I love suits and seeing people’s different interpretations of them.

How would you describe Toronto’s style?

 

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I mean, Toronto’s so big, so it’s a bit of a mishmash, but there’s definitely something happening style-wise in the city; it’s just too hard to describe. Some really cool people are documenting Toronto’s style on Instagram, like 416fits and and Legumes Magazine.

What are you watching or reading right now?

I’m rewatching Mindhunter because I love the colour palette of that show. And then most of the books I’m reading are pattern drafting or sewing technique books, which aren’t very exciting [laughs].

What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?

Photography courtesy of Shana Cave

Photography courtesy of Andrew Szewczyk

Photography courtesy of Burial

Photography courtesy of Blue Tile Lounge

Photography courtesy of Scuf Gaming

1/5

Shana Cave Ring

Stemmed Flower Ring

($200, Shana Cave )

“When I first saw this ring, I immediately followed Shana and purchased one. Her work is amazing and handmade by her in New York. How she is evolving her concepts is awesome to witness.”

Buy Now

2/5

Andrew Szewczyk Hoodie

Women's Skate Hoodie

($320, Andrew Szewczyk)

“Unless it’s too hot, I’m always wearing a black cropped hoodie with a heavy zipper.”

Buy Now

3/5

Burial Album

Burial, Tunes 2011 to 2019

($21.82, Burial)

“His music has always helped me calm my brain. Anything that calms my brain is welcome.”

Buy Now

4/5

Blue Tile Lounge Skateboard

Deck Birdie

($65, Blue Tile Lounge)

“I don’t get to skate as often as I used to. My favourite skaters ride for Blue Tile, so when I get a chance to skate, I ride their boards.”

Buy Now

5/5

Scuf Controller

Reflex Controller

($199.99, Scuf)

“A must if you play any games that require you to keep your thumbs on the sticks for the majority of the time. The extra four back bumpers are essential.”

Buy Now

The post This Canadian Designer Combines Video Games with Traditional Tailoring appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

COS has never been afraid of a bit of colour, but you’ve never seen the brand quite like this. Teaming up with artist Lea Colombo, the Scandinavian retailer has released new warm-weather staples in three exclusive prints. “These artworks are part of a flower series of mine — I create strong, vibrant, colourful images in the darkroom,” explains Colombo in a COS x Lea Colombo press release. “They were produced back home in Cape Town, where my creativity is always awakened by incredible natural beauty — to transfer this onto clothing is a beautiful exchange of energy.”

Ferragamo launches a shoe collection inspired by travellers

While it’s always fun to travel, journeying abroad hits a little differently in the summer. Besides the added heat and people, there’s an inexplicable feeling of freedom, and time seems to go forever. For Ferragamo’s latest capsule collection, ‘Nomadic Stories,’ the brand was inspired by exactly that, or as they say in a press release, “an ode to freedom and to the infinite possibilities yet to be undertaken, as each one is an ever-evolving journey.” Read as lightweight sandals and slip-ons that can take you from sand to the sidewalk.

Happy Birthday, Horace Jewelry!

 

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Ten years ago, Quebec-based brand Horace Jewelry was founded from a friendship. Alexandra Cloutier-Bernier and Marie-Josée Fleury met at Laval University and have been inseparable ever since. So to mark the momentous occasion, the designer duo has released the ‘Summer of 10 Years’ collection, which includes wavy rings, earrings and necklaces, symbolizing the ups and downs of their journey.

Lambert loves your pets

 

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A post shared by Lambert (@lambertbags)

What’s better than shopping for yourself? How about shopping for your pet! Now you can do both, thanks to Lambert’s collaboration with Tella & Stella. The Canadian brands have designed a new collection of cat and canine accessories, including leashes, collars and a doggy bag/transport system.

BOSS is returning to the driver’s seat

 

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Start your engines because BOSS has become the official fashion partner of the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team. Starting next year, the brand will design and develop looks for the racers, including apparel for both on and off the track. Styles will combine BOSS’s designs signature like luxury materials and sleek detailing with an elevated sporty aesthetic, perfect for living life in the driver’s seat.

The post COS Collaborates with Lea Colombo + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Twenty years before Dsquared2 was even an idea, the identical designer twins grew up in Toronto. “Together we weathered all the storms, always finding shelter in each other,” reflects Dean. “It wasn’t until we dipped our toes into the fashion world that we really felt our purpose and accepted ourselves for who we are.” So it makes sense that since then, the pair has infused community and acceptance into everything they do.

Dsquared2 first opened its doors in Milan in 1994 but it wasn’t until the 2000s that the brand and the twins reached superstar status. They perfected maximalist mashups in their collections with ease and continue to effortlessly play with Western and biker references, while still showing a whole lot of skin. But tapping into queer pop culture has always been a priority for the Caten brothers. In the early days of Dsquared2 they designed over a hundred looks for Madonna’s 2001 world tour. “It meant everything to us. Growing up, it was pop-stars like Madonna who went against the norm, always being true to herself, that really inspired us to do the same,” Dean explains. Dsquared2 has since dressed Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Rihanna and a number of other celebrities beloved by the LGBTQIA2S+ community.

Flash forward to 2017 and Dsquared2 merged their men’s and women’s lines into one runway in an effort to overcome barriers set by gendered labels, “We believe the future is fluid, the world is changing and there is a new generation that is challenging the traditional views of fashion and gender,” says Dean. “There is a long way to go but this progress is a step in the right direction. To us, Pride is a celebration of expression and embracing all walks of life.”

While Dsquared2 has evolved over the years, it has always stayed true to the Caten’s “work hard, play hard” mindset. “Our collections mix and match different styles, combining sporty and glamourous, masculine and feminine,” Dan explains. Everyone is welcome to participate in this world, wear their clothing and, now, decorate their homes with the brother’s iconic designs.

The duo’s latest project is Dsquared2’s first ever wallpaper collection. Pieces in the collection were co-created alongside LondonArt and are centered around different themes from the brother’s lives. From an enchanting fashion runway to a re-imagination of grandma’s garden, the Caten’s have put their life on full display. One wallpaper, called “Canadian Forest,” pays homage to the brothers’ upbringing, “Our Canadian roots will always be an important pillar and inspiration in our designs,” Dan says. “We take the rustic outdoors and mix it with Italian tailoring and all-out glamour.”

With so much of Dan and Dean’s life story focused around finding home and acceptance, it seems fitting that they would eventually want their designs to be a part of someone else’s home. “Our wallpaper collection is a new way to experience lifestyle and to tell our story,” explains Dan. Dean adds, “We want to be that positive reinforcement that allows people to feel sexy and confident however they choose to express themselves.”

The post Dsquared2 Wants Everyone to Feel Included appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

No matter your gender, cute underwear is a fundamental human right. Intimates brand Parade understands this, hence their latest gender-fluid offering New:Cotton. The collection features 10 new and updated styles, designed to be worn by anyone, and are available in all the fun and bright colours you’d expect. So whether you want to rock a boxer or a thong, there’s something for everyone.

Threads collaborates with Canadian drag superstar Tynomi Banks

After last year’s successful launch of Threads for Men, the Canadian hosiery brand is back with a collab of royal proportions. Partnering with drag superstar Tynomi Banks, the duo has released a pair of fishnet tights inspired by one of the queen’s most iconic looks. In a press release, Banks reveals, “We designed these tights to make every person who wears them, regardless of gender, pronoun or all-in-all walk of life, to feel comfortable and unapologetically themselves.”

Street and workwear collide in Levi’s x Reese Cooper

If Reese Cooper isn’t already on your radar, he should be. In 2019, the American designer was awarded the runner-up prize in the CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund, and in 2020 was nominated for the CFDA’s Emerging Designer of the Year. Now he has teamed up with Levi’s on a 10-piece collection of jeans, jackets, hoodies and tees that seamlessly blend high-fashion with heritage. Think very wearable separates with pockets for days.

Outdoorsy brand alder opens its first pop-up shop

If you think all outdoorsy people look like lumberjacks, alder is here to prove you wrong. Founded by National Geographic Explorer Mikayla Wujec and fashion marketing leader Naomi Blackman, the duo created the apparel brand in Toronto to provide more outdoor clothing options for women. And you can now shop the brand’s cute hiking shorts and “get dirty” dress in person, thanks to its pop-up shop, coming to Toronto on June 25 and staying open all summer long.

Uniqlo x Theory create effortless suiting perfect for the summer

Great things always happen when Uniqlo and Theory team up; the same is true of their 2022 Spring/Summer collection. Described as an “urban uniform” by both brands, this latest offering includes effortless suiting, preppy polos and light jackets, perfect for navigating those slightly cooler nights.

adidas Originals and Timex Group’s new watches are a blast from the past

Eighties power suits were all over the runways this season, so it was only a matter of time before the decade made its way into accessories. adidas Originals and Timex Group are jumping on the trend with “Time for Me,” a colourful assortment of red, blue, green and gold watches with a distinctly 1980s feel. Not included: matching hair scrunchies.

The post Parade is Done with Gender + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

The “Eagle Feather” earrings by Indi City are part of its Ancestral Medicine Collection, which features cultural emblems such as the medicine wheel. Three mismatched cuts of acrylic are connected by metal rings, which results in an enticing sense of movement. Looks include a mix of patterns and colourways from metallics to matte textures.

“Eagle feathers are sacred to our community,” says Aubichon. “Eagles soar the highest, and we regard them as grandfathers and grandmothers. Both Alex and I received eagle feathers as a sort of rite of passage, and we wanted to share that in a respectful way by commemorating those personal stories. This particular design comes from an experience I had when I received my spirit name. I wanted to put tobacco at an eagle’s nest we had found, and while I was getting ready to place my prayers by the tree where the nest was located, I looked down and saw the biggest, most beautiful and perfect eagle feather lying there at my feet. It felt like a gift from the Creator and the Ancestors. This is the same feather that we use to smudge our home and our family.”

It starts out with a rough sketch, says Aubichon. “Alex perfects it into digital copy, and then we laser cut a sample.” Aubichon and Alex Manitopyes’s home has a separate studio for each of them, but their team works from the Ancestor Atelier — a two-bedroom mid-century-modern home five minutes away. Designs are produced in limited quantities (that typically sell out quickly, natch), and Aubichon says there’s even more to come in terms of eco-mindedness: “Currently, we source our materials from a variety of manufacturers. But in the future, we hope to create our own materials from scraps and offcuts.”

This article first appeared in FASHION’s Summer issue. Find out more here. 

The post How the Eagle Inspired These Two-Spirit Jewellery Designers appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

The Toronto-based designer, known for reviving vintage cowboy hats, has found fixings, buttons, zippers, fringe and other types of material that can easily be overlooked by the average thrift shopper. It’s also where she finds inspiration for many of her pieces. For a recent collection, “Sleepless In…”, she was inspired by vintage bedding and pillows which she ended up creating the entire collection with.

“When I’m walking around the thrift store, I’ll see a certain item, like the shape of a pillow or the folding of a lamp, and I’ll get inspiration from it,” Nachtman tells FASHION. “It allows these items that were once forgotten to live another life and tell another story.”

Despite what it might seem like, sourcing material from vintage stores isn’t an easy part of the job. “I’m in these vintage stores like five times a week for hours at a time,” she says. Sometimes visiting seven stores in a day, Nachtman prefers to travel outside of the GTA to to find the best stuff. “I go all over the place. I go to London, I go to Hamilton, I go to Brantford, Kitchener, Guelph, Cambridge. Anywhere that’s within like a three hour radius of Toronto.”

Below, the designer behind the delightfully indulgent GORM talks about Pride month, her tips for styling a cowboy hat and the five things currently bringing her joy.

How would you describe the style of GORM in three words?

Avant-garde, unique and campy.

What is something about your brand that would surprise people?

A lot of the time, it’s just me doing everything. Creating everything, sourcing everything. I shot my whole last lookbook, I edited it all and I like to cast the models.

What’s the piece that has taken the most time to create?

I recently created a puffer trench coat with a long tail, like a train, for Savannah Ré. They were singing the national anthem at the CFL…That took a lot of time because it was a lot of puffy fabric to stuff through a tiny machine and I had to quilt it. I also created a custom look for Cerena recently. She’s a local Toronto popstar  and we created these looks for different moods she usually feels. One was happy, one was sad. The sad one was a big black tulle dress with lots to deal with. It had a plush sad face on it with a boa that had these plush rings like teardrops so, when you’re holding it, it looks like the dress is crying. I would say that one took a long time to create, the tulle with all the tiny teardrops and stuff like that. Those are probably the top two.

Your brand’s tagline is “For the Gormandizers of fashion.” Who do you picture when you think of a fashion “gormandizer”?

Someone in my head that’s constantly a gormandizer is someone who is genuinely passionate about fashion. They don’t have to spend $1,000 on something. They just kind of get it. They know it. They put on the outfit. It’s something that I wouldn’t say necessarily consumes them, but it strikes a chord in them.

What does Pride mean to you and how do you celebrate it?

I would say Pride means being authentic. A lot of my life I was really hiding who I was and just not being true to myself. Even though a lot of people say Pride is all year round, I think that Pride month allows us to be ourselves. At least we have a specific month where we’re reminded how far we’ve come and how much work it takes to be comfortable with who we are. It gives us this whole moment to celebrate it. Pride lets us kind of live in this month of truly judgment-less space. We get to be who we are and turn it up a notch. We can put it in everyone’s faces a little bit and just be happy.

How would you describe Toronto’s style?

The designers that are coming out of Toronto in this generation are extremely impressive and expressive. I’m always surprised by what’s coming out of here. The designers and their style are things that you would expect to see in New York and in LA or London. Just coming from my community and the people who I associate with, the style that I see is becoming its own thing. You can finally look at something and say “oh, this is the Toronto style, it’s unique.” There’s a lot of people who are layering different thrifted items and you see a huge thing for sustainability. A lot of designers are recycling fabric and there’s a lot of shape to it. You can tell that a lot of the people, at least who I run with, are really themselves and are just being expressive and carefree. The designers of that young category, like under 35, are really putting Toronto on the map and giving everyone a run for their money.

What’s your top tip for styling/wearing a cowboy hat?

Hats are like the cherry on top for a look. It really can elevate and complement it. But, I would say my hats are quite the look itself. You can have something a little bit more muted but then have one of my cowboy hats just elevate the look and bring it there. They’re quite extravagant and they’re quite a lot so it can seem hard to wear, but you have to just own it. Just put it on and step out the door. Cowboy hats just look good on everyone.

Favourite and least favourite trend?

Personally, I’m not the biggest trend person. I feel like lately we’re focusing a lot on what’s trending and what’s not trending…I don’t think I have a favourite or least favourite. I feel like, if anything, a lot of people should wear what they feel like whenever they feel like it, regardless of whether it’s trending or not. It also contributes a lot to the consumption issue that we’re having because people are buying certain things because it’s trendy and then they’re ditching it later on because it’s not trendy anymore.

What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?

Tapestry fabric. Any kind of vintage tapestry fabric. Love it.

Candlesticks, vintage candlesticks and candleholders. I’m obsessed, I have like a whole staircase full of them.

Meditation. It’s gonna hopefully bring me a lot more joy in my life.

Martini glasses. I’m a collector of vintage martini glasses. Or just like any type of coloured stemware, I collect all of it.

My industrial sewing machine. My Yuki DDL 878 700. Every time I use it, it brings me so much joy. It really does.

The post This Canadian Designer On Creating Avant-Garde Looks with Vintage Items appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Crafty clubwear

Toronto’s upcycled gender-fluid clothing brand Gorm, designed by Bianca Daniela Nachtman, is a favourite of club kids, art school queers and drag performers. Gorm manages to be both provocative and demure, with its pillow sets turned mini-dresses and a collection of fringed cowboy hats that even musician Orville Peck would covet. If you’re looking for an outfit that channels your inner dancing queen, Gorm’s got you covered.

One-of-a-kind wares

Chip’s Vintage is owned by Andrew Chipman, a former fashion blogger who turned his love of thrift shopping into a career by opening this beloved Winnipeg boutique. The shop is filled with vintage clothes for folks of all genders and curated with an eye for streetwear trends. Chipman regularly drops branded merch ranging from upcycled and embroidered workwear to the Chip’s Cowboy Tee 2.0, which features a pair of cowboys embracing à la Brokeback Mountain. What says Prairie Pride better than two hunky stockmen framed by a heart twirled out of a rancher’s rope?

Game-changers

Vancouver’s Peau de Loup was well ahead of the curve when it started selling gender-neutral clothing back in 2012. Ten years ago, founders Adelle Renaud and Erin McLeod created their own fit system that favours body shape and size over gender. While the boutique caters to all, its approach has made it a favourite of lesbians, non-binary folks and trans men whose needs and bodies aren’t often considered by mainstream menswear brands and retailers. Think of it as borrowed from the boys but without any notions of patriarchal dressing.

Genderless

Andrew Coimbra started in menswear, but the Toronto-based designer is now helping male shoppers step outside their comfort zone with adventurous designs that embrace both masculinity and femininity. In fact, he’s done away with menswear altogether, opting to split his designs into womenswear and genderless collections. Watch for Coimbra’s Spring 2022 assortment, which includes Pride-ready turtlenecks in terrazzo prints.

Style originator

Designer Evan Ducharme’s ethos is to meld Metis iconography with contemporary made-to-order garments that are created in the historic Metis community of St. Ambroise, Man., in Treaty 1. The fiercely political talent draws on their ancestral ties to the Metis, Cree, Ojibwe and Saulteaux peoples to create clothing that aims to celebrate contemporary Indigeneity, honour the environment and reclaim Indigenous sexualities. While their offering ranges from ready-to-wear to accessories, Ducharme’s eveningwear is worthy of a Pride gala or even a queer wedding as the custom bridal designs are exquisite!

Cottagecore queers

Designed by a queer couple in Prince Edward Island, Ureshii’s creations are carefree and cozy. Whether you are soaking up the summer sun at a backyard Pride BBQ or bingeing Queer Eye on the couch, the label will make a custom fit just for you — you even get to choose the fabric. As a nod to the community, Ureshii also offers a sewing pattern for a binder (a compression undergarment used to bind and flatten the chest) to download from its site free of charge.

All that glitters

Whether you’re out at a fabulous Pride party or making a style statement at a drag brunch, Mayer’s luxe looks will make you shine like a disco ball. The Toronto-based non-binary fashion house recently collaborated with American television host and personality Ross Mathews on a set of sequined confections. The collections were designed by Ross Mayer (who also has an eponymous womenswear line), and the proceeds from each will go toward helping the charity Rainbow Railroad’s mission of bringing queer refugees to safety worldwide.

This article first appeared in FASHION’s Summer issue. Find out more here. 

The post Canadian Queer-owned Boutiques and Brands to Know appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

To celebrate its five year anniversary, Canadian footwear brand Maguire has opened its first-ever international store in New York City. Sitting on Elizabeth Street in the Nolita neighbourhood and just a short walk from SoHo, the 1000 square foot boutique is tucked between a handful of trendy restaurants and cafes, and neighbours a variety of other direct-to-consumer brands, such as Everlane, Sézanne and Mejuri.

Even after the success of their brick-and-mortar locations in Montreal and Toronto, Myriam and Romy Maguire, sisters and founders of the ethically-produced brand, were surprised to be able to open in NYC so quickly. “It was always a dream to one day open a store in this city,” they told FASHION. “We never imagined we could do it on our own, being independent and still a relatively small company with no big capital backing us! The pandemic brought a significant decrease in commercial rents in New York and when we saw this, we decided to jump on the opportunity even though there were many uncertainties at the time.”

The New York City store opening isn’t the only achievement the Maguire sisters have to celebrate this summer. They’ve recently released their newest collection of fashion forward shoes, colourful handbags and, for the first time ever, sunglasses. The limited edition shades come in five different colour variations and only one style, the ‘Bai.’ Named after a friend of Myriam’s who introduced her to the idea of creating sunglasses made from recycled plastics, these shades are the trendiest way to look toward a brighter future.

adidas x Gucci is here and it’s bringing the ’70s flavour

 

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The highly anticipated adidas x Gucci collection is finally here. The two brands have joined forces to reimagine Adidas classics with a groovy Gucci twist. From gazelle sneakers emblazoned with the double G monogram to retro-looking tracksuits, this kaleidoscope collection has a bit of everything for both men and women. The line is available at designated Gucci stores, online and through a selection of ephemeral Gucci Pop-Ups, where the spaces are decorated with the geometric prints found in the offering.

Alexander McQueen merges fashion and art

To welcome its newest collection and to illustrate the fact that creativity emerges from countless perspectives, a group of 12 artists have been invited to express their individual working practices inspired by the Alexander McQueen Autumn/Winter 2022 women’s pre-collection: PROCESS. Each artist has chosen a look from the collection and conceived a work of art through their preferred medium, which will result in a temporary installation that showcases the ways in which art and fashion interact. The artwork will be displayed alongside the McQueen piece it relates to.

Trouvaille launches new T.Line collection

Canadian lifestyle brand Trouvaille has launched its newest collection of fashion and decor essentials for T.Line by Trouvaille. Embracing effortless summer living, Edition No. 002 offers classic pieces like a breezy lounge dress, an off-the-shoulder blouse and gold statement earrings. The collection is inspired by warm weather-ready silhouettes and is the perfect blend of elegance and ease. Prices range from $25 to $325.

John Fluevog teams with Zandra Rhodes

Canadian shoe legend John Fluevog and iconic textile designer Zandra Rhodes have joined forces on a capsule collection that includes five new styles in totally original colourways. Some of the new patterns include Wiggle Flower, Stripy Wiggle and Swirly Wiggle Flowers, adapted from some of Zandra’s textile designs that date back to the ’60s. The fun, zany pieces launched June 10.

David Yurman finds inspiration from major cities

Timeless jewellery brand David Yurman has released a new collection celebrating inspirational cities across the world, including Toronto and Vancouver. Inspired during the pandemic by stories of unity, perseverance and optimism, the City Elements Collection uses the circle to symbolize inclusivity and hope. The classic collection features mixed metal designs, symbolic cut-outs, bright colours, eclipse overlays and unique gemstones.

Cher and Versace team up for a Pride collection

To celebrate Pride month, pop icon Cher has united with Donatella Versace to create a limited capsule collection appropriately titled CHERSACE. The coming together of the two icons has resulted in a line that consists of rainbow emblazoned and bedazzled black t-shirts, embroidered logo socks and logo baseball caps decorated with both Cher and Donatella’s signatures. A portion of the proceeds from the collection, which launched on June 7, will go to Gender Spectrum, a charity committed to the health and well-being of gender-diverse youth and their communities.

The post Maguire Opens Its First-Ever International Store + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Held to celebrate the release of FASHION’s Summer 2022 issue starring Symone, and the beginning of Toronto Pride, Cake Mix brought together the city’s stylish glitterati, the LGBTQIA2S+ community and cake lovers of all kinds. The event was also a fundraiser for the Rainbow Railroad, with a live auction for a painting by Terran McNeely. You can bid on the piece here until June 9 at 7:59 p.m. ET.

Entertainment and edibles included petite red velvet pancakes, a tarot card reading session, an impromptu blowout (thank you Chatters Hair Salon!), and an energetic performance by Juno-nominated artist Ceréna. And maybe it was just the fragrance from all the food, but the air in the room somehow seemed sweeter.

Guests were encouraged to dress colourfully with Valentino pink the most popular hue. Neon was another favourite, most decadently worn by Miss Moco during her performance on the BOSS stage, alongside DJ Karim Olen Ash. However, the best-dressed award of the night goes to the influencer, model and activist Myles Sexton. Posing for pix in the Jean Paul Gaultier room, they wore a dress screen printed with a naked woman’s body by the designer.

See the Gaultier gown, sourced from SSENSE, in the gallery below where we’ve rounded up all the most memorable looks from FASHION’s Cake Mix party.

Special thanks to the following:

Jean Paul Gaultier, BOSS, OGX, Chatters, Bayview Village, Sugar Moon Salon, MAC, Space on King, Gato Negro Wine, Green Owl Vodka, Perrier, Rainbow Railroad, Terran McNeely, Ceréna, Miss Moco, Myles Sexton, Karim Olen Ash.

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

Photography by George Pimentel Photography

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The post Jean Paul Gaultier’s “Naked” Dress + Other Highlights from <em>FASHION’s</em> Cake Mix Party appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

The year: 2000. The place: Lululemon. The item in question: the ‘Shape jacket.’ The iconic Canadian brand is digging into its archives and rereleasing this and more past products from the early 2000s through to 2011, including more fan favourites like the ‘Astro pant,’ ‘Inspire crop’ and ‘Still pant.’ Each month a new and improved article of clothing will be revealed from the Lululemon Y2K vault and available to purchase in limited quantities via its app, instore and online. Not included: your old workout soundtrack with songs by Britney and NSYNC.

BOSS X PHIPPS is the sustainable collection you didn’t know you needed

On paper, BOSS and PHIPPS might seem like an unexpected pairing. But according to Marco Falcioni, senior vice president, creative direction for HUGO BOSS, “our values are very much aligned – even if our aesthetics are different. As brands, we both want to pave a more sustainable way forward in an industry which is still creating too much waste.” Enter a genderless collection crafted using responsible materials and leftover fabrics from the BOSS archives. The assortment combines the tie-dye and provocative slogans that PHIPPS has become known for with the quality and innovation that BOSS is synonymous with.

A Top Gun collection comes to Canada thanks to Christopher Bates

If you are feeling a need for speed, then Christopher Bates has got you covered. In honour of the new film Top Gun: Maverick, the Canadian designer has teamed up with Paramount Pictures on a collection of bomber jackets, T-shirts and sunglasses that Tom Cruise himself would approve of. And with Father’s Day coming up, this could be your solution for finding the perfect gift.

Jillian Harris proves she’s the queen of collabs with Melanie Auld Jewelry

Jillian Harris, the queen of Canadian collabs, is back, and this time she’s working with Melanie Auld Jewelry. The duo recently released ‘Adorned,’ a collection of initial earring charms and studs in vermeil, sterling silver and 14kt solid gold. So whether you want to wear the letters of a loved one or simply celebrate yourself, there’s something here for everyone.

There are only 150 pairs of these Moscot x Saturdays NYC sunglasses

Glasses brand Moscot is teaming up with Saturdays NYC just in time for summer. According to the press release, the collaboration is inspired by the two brands’ “shared deep-rooted New York City heritage and active urban lifestyle” and features a singular style, the Tomo. But you’ll have to be fast because only 150 are available to purchase online and in-stores at MOSCOT and Saturdays NYC.

Smash + Tess and The Birds Papaya release a new romper

Looking for that perfect transitional spring to summer outfit? Thanks to its recent collab with Canadian influencer The Birds Papaya, Smash + Tess is making a pretty convincing argument for embracing a romper. Available in pink and black, the ‘Kimi Coveralls’ are made from a woven Tencel, cotton, and spandex blend for a super soft feel and an effortless drape.

The post Lululemon Opens its Y2K Vault + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Clark has played around with different facets of sustainability, from using deadstock fabric to experimenting with recycled materials to taking a course in natural dyes in Mexico this past January. “I’m really looking forward to trying to figure out a way to produce some textiles more sustainably, using local wool and natural plants to dye them,” she tells FASHION over a video chat.

Clark credits her family’s connection with Vietnam for her drive to design sustainable clothing. “When I was starting my company I was really considering how I could contribute to the economic development of somewhere like Vietnam,” she says. “I wanted to do so in a way that’s not just a charity but that’s actually sustaining local business.” So, shortly after graduating from the London School of the Arts, Clark created Faun Studio, a ready-to-wear clothing brand with production facilities in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam.

The company that owns Faun Studio’s production facilities supports many luxury designers with extremely high production volumes, she explains. “They have just rolls [of fabric] sitting in their storage. So, a couple times a year I’ll get them to send me all the swatches of the leftovers that they have to help them move it out of there. It also allows so that I don’t have to over produce and be left over with a bunch of inventory.”

FASHION spoke with the founder of Faun Studio about sustainability, Canada and Vietnam’s differentiating styles, and the five things bringing her joy right now.

Where do you find most of your inspiration for your pieces?

Definitely from our customers. I really like to engage with them and figure out what they’re looking for each season. It’s easy to follow trend reports and colours of the year and things like that, but I typically find that’s not really sustainable design in the sense that it’s not going to last for years. So, I really try to come up with a basic [design], but then find a colour that people just resonate towards not because it’s a trend colour, but because it brightens your skin tone or brings out certain features….That’s where we’ve seen a big transformation from having more dresses and the silk pieces to now we’re moving into a world where people aren’t getting dressed up as fancily anymore, but still want to wear modern, fashionable clothing.

How would you describe the style of your brand in three words?

Whimsical, modern and bold.

What is something about your brand that would surprise people?

Our team is only three girls from Alberta.

Could you talk about your connection to Vietnam?

I was just seeing how harmful fashion production and that industry could be on people. And with cheap labour moving from China to Vietnam, I really didn’t want to see them experience the same problems with sweatshop labour.

Beyond that, my first thought of starting a fashion line was that I had been to Vietnam over the summer in university, and I’d found a tailor there and custom made a couple jackets and a dress for myself. I just loved coming back to the university and when people would ask where it was from, I was like, “Oh, it was made for me.” Having that relationship with someone and just seeing how skilled they were at creating clothes really inspired me to get into design and I just admire their workmanship so much. And I just find they’re so quick at being able to see a concept and translate it. It’s been a great opportunity to connect with my culture.

How would you describe Calgary and Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)’s style?

I definitely find there’s pockets of niche styles in Calgary. You do get more hipsters and things like that. But, in general, you see people conforming to a certain style. Western style definitely plays an influence on people’s outfits — you see a lot of jeans and a cute top. Whereas Ho Chi Minh city gets interesting because there is an American influence — you’re seeing a lot of graphic T-shirts and things like that — but there’s definitely more of a boldness and willingness to take risks in certain younger groups in Vietnam. I think for so long, they grew up with families that were very traditional, and now they’re finally getting access to social media, and seeing Western styles and stuff like that. One of the interesting things I find is that the men seem to care way more about fashion there than the men do here. There’s a lot more of a desire to buy big brands and really curate a look. Whereas here, guys just throw on a t-shirt and jeans and they’re out the door.

What’s one piece from your new collection that’s especially meaningful to you?

I’ve named each piece after my dogs, so they each have a different name. I really like the Nala, which is my puppy right now, in the modern desert sunset print. It just kind of reminds me of being outside with [my dogs].

Favourite and least favourite trend?

Right now my favourite trend is green pants — they’re such a fun piece for summer. My least favourite? I’ve never been a big fan of the lingerie, corset styles.

What is the most-worn item in your closet?

My high waisted pair of vintage Levi’s. Just a wide leg in a light wash blue.

What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?

1/5

Hollywood Flawless Filter

($53, Charlotte Tilbury)

Buy Now

2/5

Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++

($47, Supergoop!)

Buy Now

3/5

Lover Tie Back Crop Top

($62, Faun Studio)

Buy Now

4/5

Rambler

($40, Yeti)

Buy Now

5/5

Mid Length Leather Jacket

($145, Shop Coat)

Clark loves a good vintage leather oversized black jacket. This one is from Shop Coat. But her advice? “Check out the men’s section at your local Goodwill or Value Village.”

Buy Now

The post This Canadian Designer On Vietnam’s Bold Style appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

If you’re anything like us, you’re constantly misplacing your jewellery. Luckily, the new Mejuri home decor collection has a stylish solution. Partnering with Claude Home, the Canadian brand is releasing two vessels/jewellery boxes reminiscent of a Zen Garden. Too beautiful to hide in a bathroom, we recommend keeping these on display where everyone can see them.

Canada Goose partners with Briony Douglas on an upcycled art installation

If you find yourself in Toronto this month and are looking for something to do, we recommend Briony Douglas’s ‘Reborn: a HUMANATURE art installation’ at the Harbourfront Centre. Partnering with Canada Goose, the artist created an eight-foot-tall sculpture inspired by the brand’s sustainability platform. The interpretive globe is made using upcycled materials, including excess fabrics and products derived from Canada Goose’s warranty program and symbolizes “the shift to the spring season, with the world breaking out of ice and blooming towards a brighter future.”

Moschino releases the most camp of campy books

No one does camp better than Moschino, so it only makes sense that the brand’s new book reads like a fabulous fashion fantasy. Published by Assouline, Moschino features 185 pages of ad campaigns, runway and backstage images, and red carpet snaps. It is sure to become a collector’s item very soon as Jeremy Scott celebrates his 10th year as creative director of the label. Visit assouline.com for more information.

Allbirds releases ‘Tree Flyer’ runners

These sneakers both look good and do good. Allbirds’ latest launch, ‘The Tree Flyer,’ is made from renewable natural materials and has a carbon footprint of just 9.92 kg CO2e. But just because they’re sustainable doesn’t mean they don’t perform. Promising to have more bounce and propulsion than other footwear, Allbirds got over 115 runners to test the shoes before ‘The Tree Flyers’ became available.

Ukraine inspired Silk Laundry’s new collection

For Silk Laundry’s summer collection, creative director Katie Kolodinski was inspired by her Ukrainian heritage. Kolodisnki says in a press release, “The prints are based on those pysanky eggs from my childhood — and one decorated egg particularly; one that has been passed down from my baba to my mother, to me. It’s an heirloom and one of the few things I have that belonged to my grandparents.” And although the assortment was designed before Ukraine’s war with Russia started, the clothing remains a beautiful tribute to the country, complete with pastel blues and European floral motifs.

Athleta x Allyson Felix is a winning combination

 

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Trust that Allyson Felix, the world’s most decorated track and field athlete, knows what she’s talking about when it comes to sportswear. Now adding entrepreneur, mother and activist to her resume, the multi-hyphenate has teamed up with Athleta on a sporty collection that can be worn both on and off the track. Expect effortless separates, matching sets and a must-have duffle bag.

Good for Sunday x BodyBreak is a trip down memory lane

Travel back to the simpler days of the ’90s with Good for Sunday’s collab with BodyBreak (yes, THAT BodyBreak, from the old TV spots). Inspired by BodyBreak’s dedication to fitness and Good for Sunday’s sustainable and ethical ethos, the assortment features nostalgic prints, colours and comfy silhouettes that pair perfectly with platform sneakers, scrunchies and other ’90s staples.

The post Mejuri Makes its Home Decor Debut + Other Fashion News appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Coming from five generations of seamstresses, did you always know you wanted to be in fashion?

No, actually. My mom was a very practical woman, so my sister and I were never exposed to the exciting side of fashion. It wasn’t until we started secretly collecting magazines and watching television that everything changed. I was amazed by fashion, and it eventually became my creative outlet.

What was the best lesson you learned from UK-based designer Yang Li?

Working with Yang Li in London had a huge impact on me as a designer because I was so involved in his process. I essentially learned how to make a collection by being exposed to Yang’s research-and-development methods. His focus is always on how to make a piece fit perfectly. When I finally set up my own studio, I brought that same mentality with me.

Why is it important for Kathryn Bowen to be a slow-fashion brand?

In order for the industry to evolve, a complete mindset change must happen in the consumer. There’s no need to buy 25 new pieces every season! What I try to focus on for my own label is creating items that are made well and patterns that are unique so my customers can keep my clothes in their wardrobes for decades.

How did the opportunity to dress Kim Kardashian for her new KKW fragrance come about?

Apparently, my brand Kathryn Bowen had been on her radar for a while, but it wasn’t until November 2021 that Kim’s team reached out over Instagram and asked if I could create three looks for her upcoming fragrance campaign. I only had two weeks to pull it off! From that moment, it was just a crazy whirlwind of sketching, developing and collaborating with her team.

What surprised you the most about working with her?

Definitely that a small designer like me was on her radar for a project that big. About a week in, her team called me and asked if I could come to L.A. in case anything needed alterations. While working with Kim, I discovered that she is so polite and humble and truly works hard for all that she has achieved. She’s a smart woman, and to get to work with someone like that is pretty incredible.

Who are three celebrities you hope to dress one day?

I really want to dress FKA Twigs, Hunter Schafer and Grimes. FKA Twigs and Grimes both support emerging designers and have their own unique, ethereal look. I think some of my garments would fit into their aesthetics really well. They’re both incredibly talented, and I’m always inspired by their originality. As a trans actor with a supercool sense of style, Hunter Schafer is bringing so much inclusion to the industry and making a huge impact in the fashion world. These women stand out as style icons to me because of the amazing work they’re producing.

How do you think social media has changed the fashion industry?

It’s definitely made fashion more mainstream — but not necessarily in a good way. There are so many new trends each season — and so many fast-fashion brands that directly fuel those trends — that social media has really contributed to the industry’s waste problem. But on the flip side, for smaller brands like mine, it’s a lot easier to promote yourself and get a wider audience. So, in a way, these platforms can make newer brands more accessible, but it’s also become more difficult to stand out because of all the clutter.

This article first appeared in FASHION’s May issue. Find out more here. 

The post Meet the Canadian Designer Who Dressed Kim Kardashian West appeared first on FASHION Magazine.