Although it’s been around in Toronto since 2014, this week marks Startup Fashion Week’s debut showcase in Montreal. Bringing together the fashion industry and the growing technology sector, Startup Fashion Week (SFW) was created by founder Jodi Goodfellow to bridge the gap between fashion, business and technology in Canada. SFW provides independent and up and coming designers the platform to showcase their work to a broader audience, while also allowing them to build media connections and a larger professional network.
Taking place from June 20 – 22, SFW Montreal will feature a variety of conferences and forums throughout the week and also produce a runway show featuring apparel designers, accessory designers and wearable tech. We here at STYLE.CA could not be more thrilled to be the media partner and host for the Business of Fashion Conference taking place on June 21st. Our Editor and Chief Elise Gasbarrino will be the host for the conference portion and it’s sure to be a jam-packed schedule. There are limited tickets remaining, to get yours click here.
For those of you that can’t join us in person we’ve rounded up the top 5 brands to look out for at the first-ever Startup Fashion Week Montreal.
HATCHI is a new young and dynamic company that was launched in 2017. HATCHI is the Japanese word for eight – a lucky number that symbolizes wealth and prosperity. The brand’s logo also ties back to founder Selma Benterki’s Algerian roots, and is a symbol for the number eight in Arabic. HATCHI’s goal is to provide chic and comfortable styles for millennial women using organic or environmentally conscious fabrics such as silk, wool, modal and recycled polyester. As an added bonus, all styles are designed and made in Canada at the company’s headquarters in Montreal.
Inspired by Greek culture, Ageselao brings together modern sensibilities and Ancient Greek inspiration. In an age of cultural exchange, the brand brings its European styling to Canada with the launch of its first full collection. The brand strives to present an ethical take on streetwear, and all garments are locally made within Canada from sustainable materials like organic cotton and hemp.
Fanny Capuano is the creator behind the brand, which she started in 2016. Determined to be independent since the start and not follow the traditional path, Capuano started producing her own runway shows at fifteen years old. From participating in fashion events for universities to being part of Startup Fashion Week™, she has gained popularity and a loyal base of fans that flock to each of her newest collections.
Malika Rajani is an independent Canadian designer, creating clothing for the stylish modern woman. Malika’s designs are unconventional with a contemporary edge. A modern aesthetic makes each piece uniquely distinct, incorporating intricate details into each and every creation, along with her trademark leather. As a Canadian design company, they take great pride in collaborating with fellow companies that abide by fair trade and labor practices, and support local artisans and designers.
In an age of increasing connectivity, smart clothing is the next step in incorporating new technology into our lives. At SEAM Technic, personal safety is at the front and center of their wearable tracking device, the Lotus. With its hands-free audio, GPS tracking, and remote activation capabilities, the Lotus is an innovative product that makes it easy to share your whereabouts with loved ones. By providing customers with a simple solution to personal security, SEAM is making it easier than ever to stay safe on the go.
For more information on these and many more of the amazing designers featured at Startup Fashion Week Montreal, be sure to check out https://startupfashionweek.com/ or follow them on Instagram at @sfwmontreal.
Contributor: Kate Mendonca
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