Toronto’s longest running fashion once again embraces fashion un-conventions
By Monserrat Quintana
In a city where the biggest fashion event refuses to follow suit with the rest of the world, each season is not only memorable but sets a unique uncharted precedent.
Once again hosted at Black Creek Assembly located at 131 McCormack St., the multipurpose warehouse left room for a variety of experiences on and off the 200-foot runway.
It’s safe to say, the Friday show at Fashion Art Toronto (FAT) spring/summer 2024 was one of the most impactful shows I’ve ever seen.
FAT went beyond threads and patterns — it included performance art, videography and installations, including the use of artificial intelligence.
STACEY MITCHELL DESIGNS
All lights turned off as a performer in a latex-like black bodysuit with pink lace appeared on the runway. Along with dancers, the singer introduced the collection with live music.
Mitchell’s work is inspired by the designer’ Indigenous identity, the collection portrays “the history of her Mohawk community, yet simultaneously [shows] where the future of the community is striving to go,” according to the Indigenous Arts Collective.
A diverse range of models showcased the contemporary collection that featured pieces made from fabrics like cotton, leather and silk as well as ones with a square-shaped pattern. A design that stood out was a disco-inspired hat that featured draped strings, resembling the shape of an umbrella.
SIYAWAREVA ACCESSORIES BY FAMLUXY
Siyawareva Accessories’ collection was full of eye-catching designs and intricate patterns, making it feel like a combination of the textile world.
Most dresses in the collection appeared to be mid-length or mini-length, suitable for more formal events while other pieces could be fit for a beach day.
As a local brand, the designs seemed to consist of international couture. As if the collection was meant to be in New York, Paris or Milan Fashion Week.
The garments were impeccably thought-out and tailor-made for each model, making an excellent demonstration of how the clothes are designed to conform to one’s body.
RONEY X
As FAT is not just about the runways, we had a break from the fashion world and entered a universe of musical talent.
Roney X performed an original single while dancers filled the room with explosive energy in their denim outfits.
The performance was quite enjoyable, offering a brief recess from the fashion displays.
SOAP STUDIOS
Soap Studios showcased a youthful and contemporary collection. In all of the designs, you can see the 80s and 90s influence that is currently trending — mini skirts and shorts, elongated blazers, longer tops and vests.
Most outfits included a vibrant two-piece set with off-the-shoulder sleeves that were slightly wider and bottoms with a lantern-like cuff, allowing the left or right leg to be shown.
The selection of shoes and socks was also notable, the choice of low heels and flats gave off a vibe of innocence and nostalgia.
MUFARO MUKOKI
Mufaro Mukoki’s show started with a video statement sharing the designer’s desire to create pieces that have significant meaning to the wearer.
Many of these clothes appear to prioritize aesthetics over functionality, focusing on meaningfulness and art, including organic silhouettes.
The collection takes on the designers’ intention to create statement pieces, exemplified by garments that featured connected sleeves and blazers that were designed with the arms connected to the hips.
This collection is surely one of the highlights of the day, showcasing the designer’s abundance of talent and creativity.
VIBE THE PEOPLE
Vibe the People (VTP) had a very strong presence in the Friday showcase. The streetwear brand showcases its garments as a social declaration, incorporating elements of Afro-futurism and Afro-punk, according to their website.
This year, VTP showcased a strong 90s and 2000s influence in their clothing and designs with bold patterns and big texts printed on garments.
VTP has developed a memorable brand personality and is sticking to its vision and concepts.
The Friday showcase at FAT was truly fantastic, one could observe the increasing madness for fashion in Toronto and how the city is expanding with a focus on talented designers, production teams and artists.
In the coming years, I anticipate a rise in the number of companies hosting new fashion weeks, showcasing a wider variety of clothing and accessories for the public to enjoy.
I am excited to be a part of this evolving fashion industry.