Fashion • May 2015
Dedicated followers of fashion: Montreal
It’s no wonder Montreal prides itself on its diverse and vibrant fashion scene. Here Fati Zed, blogger-in-chief of The Montreal Fashion Blog, shares her pick of the local designers, independent labels and unique boutiques combining anglophone culture with elegant French style
Rad Hourani
Canadian designer, artist and photographer Rad Hourani is a pioneer of high-end unisex wear. At 30 he became the first and youngest Canadian to show a unisex haute couture collection in Paris, and his pieces are known for straight lines and generous cuts. Everything is designed to be unisex, and if you like blacks, greys and whites – even better.
Harricana
Since 1997, Harricana has been minimising fur consumption in Quebec by recycling and repurposing it into trendy statement pieces. All the creations are made under ethical manufacturing conditions so you can pick up hats, scarves, coats and gloves guilt-free. Handy for the seemingly endless Canadian winter.
Philippe Dubuc
Twenty years after he broke into the industry, Philippe Dubuc has become a pillar of the local fashion scene. Situated in Old Montreal, he creates finely cut suits, shirts and ties for lovers of sophistication and minimalism. His suits are mostly black or grey, and are ideal for men with a slimline frame.
Denis Gagnon
No round-up of Montreal fashion would be complete without a mention of Denis Gagnon. Montreal’s own enfant terrible, Gagnon began his eponymous label in 2000, after years spent designing theatre costumes. He plays with raw materials to create deconstructed, elegant pieces that will make you look effortlessly fierce.
Boutique Unicorne
This hip women’s boutique showcases clothing, shoes and jewellery by indie labels and Quebec designers. Pick up quirky, retro-inspired earrings by Sandrine Devost, leather satchel bags by Kimberly Fletcher and slouchy dresses by Bettina Lou. Its social media channels will inspire you to get into a ‘Quebec state of mind’.
La Petite Garconne
At this ‘must-shop’ boutique, simplicity and sophistication are key. Discover clothes featuring clean lines, classic colourways and timeless appeal – as well as tasselled bags, jewellery with semi-precious stones and slinky evening dresses with low backs. A redefined vision of women’s elegance with a modern, powerful twist.
This article has been tagged Fashion + Style, Destination