How to make the most of Toronto Fashion Week
Toronto Fashion Week is more accessible than ever this season. Thirteen local designers (like Ellie Mae, who just dressed Sophie Grégoire-Trudeau in Washington) are debuting very wearable collections and there are a slew of tickets up for grabs. Here are five ways to experience the week like a VIP.
Sit front row This season, sitting front row at Fashion Week isn’t reserved for celebs and socialites—certain shows are selling the coveted seats (at a premium, of course). At some high-profile presentations, like Greta Constantine’s Friday show, front-row action will run visitors up to $1,000, but most of the rest are going for around $300. If that’s not worth up-close looks at the clothes (or the chance to lock eyes with Paul Mason), general admission seats cost around $45. All levels of tickets can be purchased here. Monday, March 14—Friday, March 18. David Pecaut Square, toronto-fashionweek.com.
Shop for global designers at a pop-up After a jam-packed week of local designer showcases, Toronto shoppers can check out a two-day shopping event from Orejen Fashion Lab, a Toronto-based showroom that hunts down emerging fashion talent from around the world. Highlights include lots of bold, African-inspired prints from Rosario Dawson’s clothing line Studio 189 (we love this silk dress handmade in Ghana) and Beyoncé-approved brand Demestiks. Saturday, March 18—Sunday, March 20. 12 Ossington Ave., orejenfashionlab.com.
See a rare Greta Constantine runway show To celebrate their 10-year anniversary, the Toronto-based designer duo (who have dressed celebs like Angelina Jolie and Miley Cyrus) is sending models down the runway for the first time. The label presented its fall 2016 collection in Paris, and if this show’s at all similar, attendees can expect lots of slightly disheveled, body-skimming looks. Sophie Grégoire-Trudeau revealed a sneak peek at the collection when she hosted a charity gala at the Shangri-La last weekend dressed in this metallic gold off-the-shoulder gown. 9 p.m. Friday, March 18. David Pecaut Square, toronto-fashionweek.com.
Check out cool installations and presentations Anyone who has a ticket to one of the shows can hang out in the tents and take in the buzzing atmosphere (with drink in hand). At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday there will be two free presentations in the common area: the first from streetwear label WRKDEPT and the second from bridal gown designer Di Carlo Couture. Swarovski is also sponsoring the event, and will be setting up a very sparkly crystal installation that’s sure to provide Kardashian-worthy selfie backdrops. Monday, March 14—Friday, March 18. David Pecaut Square, toronto-fashionweek.com.
Attend a Rihanna video dance party Although it’s not officially affiliated with Toronto Fashion Week, there’s no better way to let loose after watching models strut all week than by working it out to Rihanna’s best hits—both new and old. The Gladstone bash will feature booty-popping live dance performances and guests are encouraged to dress in their best Riri-worthy getups (think plunging necklines and Star Wars skirts). Tickets can be purchased here. $12. Friday, March 18. 1214 Queen St. W., gladstonehotel.com.
