Toronto’s design community prepares to sell their wares at this weekend’s Clothing Show

It always seems like at least one of our close friends has made the switch to eating local—fiddleheads from Fiesta Farms, tomatoes from a co-operative community garden and ham from Holland Marsh. But where does the thinking locavore go to source clothes? The Clothing Show is taking place this weekend (May 27–29) at the CNE’s Queen Victoria Building, and the show has an abundance of riches to browse and maybe buy—there are 300 vendors—including a curated selection of very-vintage pieces on display in a showcase. But among the usual suspects—artisan smocks and Tibetan knit hats—are vintage and independent designers from all over the city, like LG Fashion Week participants Label, sportswear and casuals brand Andy Hall, and even fresh underwear from local skivvy producer Wes Meisener for the fellas. We suggest taking a look at Vintage 69, Bicyclette and Lost and Found: it’s a no-stress way to see what Queen West is hocking without having to deal with a swarm of brunching do-nothings. And if the promise of supporting Toronto’s small businesses wasn’t enough to get us to schlep out to the CNE, each visitor receives a reusable bag stuffed with product samples and goodies. A far cry from the deep-fried butter we typically associate with the Ex come summertime.

The Clothing Show, May 27–29. $8–$10. Queen Victoria Building, CNE, theclothingshow.com.