Community News
All Things in Bloom; Fashion Art Toronto 1664 Fashion Week
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
It was Fashion Art Toronto’s 1664 Fashion Week, and although I knew I wouldn’t be able to go the entire weekend, I knew that I wanted to be there on Thursday May 2nd, 2024, which was opening night. Fashion week ran Thursday, May 2nd, 2024, through Sunday, May 5th, 2024, at Black Creek Assembly (131 McCormack St.). This year’s fashion week in Toronto channeled all things in ‘Bloom’ to bring stylish spring vibes to Toronto’s fashion scene.
Guests experienced runway shows featuring contemporary, avant-garde and experiential collections from more than 40 Canadian designers as well as an entertainment-filled Fashion Playground that boasted a 1664 Bar, guest lounge, 50-foot pink carpet, endless photo opportunities, two retail pop-ups with goods from over 25 local brands and artisans, and provocative fashion-inspired art installations.
Fashion Art Toronto’s 1664 Fashion Week Spring 2024 event provides an inclusive platform that supports and celebrates Canadian designers, creatives and artisans through: dynamic runway shows, fashion presentations, art installations and retail pop-ups.
Founded in 2005 by Vanja Vasic, Fashion Art Toronto is a multi-arts fashion organization celebrated for its ongoing commitment to providing an inclusive platform for Canada’s diverse fashion and artist communities. Fashion Art Toronto’s fashion week attracts over 8,000 guests per season.
Vanja Vasic, Founder and Executive Director, Fashion Art Toronto shares, “Our designers, models, artists and guests bring it every single season with their incredible style, on and off the runway, highlighting why Toronto is a hub for fashion innovation and trendsetting!”
My intention was to see two of my favourite designers Signed by Dahliah, and Kyle Gervacy, as well as check out the buzz on a fashion trend I learned about called Gorpcore. My Gorpcore introduction would be with Prescribed Shelter, but we will talk about that in a minute.
Signed by Dahliah creations are like whispers of springtime, delicate and enchanting. She has a keen eye for soft, pastel hues that evoke a sense of serenity and grace. Her series palette danced with shades of blush pink, lavender, powder blue, and creamy ivory, enveloping each garment in an ethereal aura.
Textured materials add depth and tactile allure to her creations. Soft chiffon floated effortlessly, while lace added a touch of intricate elegance. Silk satin draped luxuriously, catching the light in subtle shimmering waves. Each fabric was selected not only for its visual appeal, but also for its tactile sensation, inviting the wearer (and fashion enthusiasts present) to experience a moment of indulgent comfort and sophistication.
I lucked out and sat beside a beautiful fashionista and fashion journalist named Guia. As we watched Prescribed Shelter models take the runway, she broke down what the fashion trend was. Gorpcore (‘gorp’ being an acronym for ‘good ol raisins and peanuts’, AKA trail mix) is an outdoorsy fashion aesthetic that first gained widespread popularity in the late 2010s. It focuses on the modern, technical side of outdoor gear as opposed to traditional heritage stuff and blends elements of streetwear and techwear to create an entirely new look. Think: shell jackets, fleece, ripstop, pockets aplenty, wraparound shades and functional yet sporty footwear.
The trend has catapulted brands like Salomon, Arc’teryx and Hoka One One into the fashion consciousness, and inspired countless Instagram mood-board accounts that help to perpetuate its popularity.
Then of course there is the one and only Kyle Gervacy. When you encounter a Gervacy creation, there’s an instant recognition of its signature style—a perfect fusion of opulence and innovation.
His designs are not merely clothes; they are captivating narratives woven into fabric. Bold silhouettes, intricate detailing, and luxurious embellishments are his tools to craft garments that command attention. Each piece tells a story, often with a touch of extravagance that sets it apart from the ordinary.
Gervacy’s artistic vision is unparalleled, and his willingness to push boundaries knows no bounds. He fearlessly experiments with colours, textures, and shapes, creating wearable works of art that leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s a breathtaking evening gown adorned with crystals, or a daring avant-garde ensemble that defies convention, his creations always carry his unmistakable stamp of creativity and panache.
Fashion Art Toronto was also excited to announce its third year partnering with Artist Project, producing art-inspired fashion pop-ups for the esteemed contemporary art fair. Back for a second season, guests could visit and shop at the Boutique Pop-Up, also located in the Fashion Playground. This luxury pop-up shop concept featured a curated collection of Black-owned fashion, accessories, beauty and lifestyle brands.
The Fashion Art Toronto team covered everything, down to intoxicating libation, and delectable dishes. Premium beer brand Kronenbourg 1664 celebrated their first season as title partner of Fashion Art Toronto’s 1664 Fashion Week. The official beer of fashion week in Toronto, 1664 brought good taste with a twist. They engaged guests with chic brand activations, photo opportunities, product sampling, exciting contests and more. 1664 Fashion Week will also celebrate the launch of the brand new 1664 Rosé – a balanced and delicately sweet wheat beer with a hint of red berries. It was the perfect accessory to celebrate Canadian fashion!
Toronto’s premium catering company Kanvas returned as the official culinary partner, serving up gourmet bites for guests to enjoy between shows, and Toronto’s Bloom Bar Studio generously provided all the florals to fill the Fashion Playground with stylish spring vibes. Smart Water also returned as a proud event partner, refreshing guests throughout fashion week.
Fashion Art Toronto sponsored a special “The Black Designers of Canada Showcase,” on Friday, May 3rd, 2024. They featured Black-owned brands including: Kali Works, Mufaro Mukoki, SOAP Studios and Vibe The People. Artist and musician Roney X also took to the runway to entertain guests with a special performance.
Exhibited in spaces and on walls throughout the Fashion Playground, attendees can take in experimental fashion-inspired art installations from local artists including Lindsay Anne Delaney, Nick Merzetti and Gates Tucker. In a surreal convergence of fashion and nature, the avant-garde art installations embodied the essence of “Blooming into Spring.” Cascading petals and vibrant blooms intertwined with haute couture garments, creating immersive experiences where the boundaries between fashion and art dissolved.
Guests meandered through ethereal landscapes where floral motifs and textile masterpieces merge seamlessly. Each installation was a sensory journey, evoking the rejuvenation and renewal of the spring season through a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and scents. These experimental creations redefined the concept of beauty, inviting viewers to embrace the ever-evolving landscape of creativity and nature’s perpetual cycle of growth and transformation.
Don’t sleep on Toronto; we are here to show the world that we are a cut above the rest.