Welcome to ‘Faces of FAT’, a captivating series that takes you behind the scenes of Fashion Art Toronto 2025. Dive into the compelling narratives and creative journeys of diverse designers, as we uncover the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that shape their unique visions. From innovators to emerging talents, each episode unveils the fascinating stories behind the runway. Join us as we celebrate the diverse voices and untold stories of the fashion world, one designer at a time.
Name: Maxime Chercover
Website: https://www.sagradesa.com/
Instagram/ Social Handles: @sagradesa @sagradesabridal
Showtime: Thursday, May 29th at 9:00 PM
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Maxime Chercover (she/her), and I am a Colombian-Canadian womenswear designer at Sagradesa, a slow-fashion brand rooted in sustainability and storytelling. Inspired by shapes and beings in nature, we create unique, limited run, handmade designs. We specialize in custom evening wear, bridal, performance, and costume design, and are honored to collaborate with artists and clients on important moments and events. Garments are sustainably made-to-order, using repurposed / reclaimed materials, in hopes to reduce textile waste. Sagradesa is a product of a love of nature, environment, and fashion as a form of art and expression. All pieces are ethically made by hand in Toronto ON.
What inspires you?
I find much of my inspiration from nature & the great outdoors. Draping is a common motif in my designs, as I love to mimic shapes found in nature. Water formations such as waves crashing, seafoam, and other organic shapes are especially mesmerizing to me, and the fluid & organic practice of draping is my favorite way to experiment with fabric. Common themes reflected in our work include depictions of nature, and references to historic fashion, such as Victorian and Baroque eras. Influence of Catholic iconography and Gothic art styles from the 1700-1800’s, are seen through voluminous skirts, gowns, and corsets, all made using vintage and unconventional materials.
Tell us the story behind your brand/ art.
Fashion design has always been my dream, and I’ve been sewing & creating all my life, but I officially started Sagradesa in 2023. I focused on sustainable design after learning about the waste and harmful impacts of the fashion industry on the planet, its contribution to climate change, microfibers, and textile waste. I want to make a positive impact on the planet, and challenge the way people think about sustainable fashion, while having fun with my art, embracing the whimsy, playfulness, and femininity of fashion, and advocating for sustainability and women’s rights.
What’s one piece of advice you would give someone starting out in your field?
Support those around you and your community! Shop local and always make climate-conscious choices. Helping the planet requires everyone’s action and participation.
What do you love most about FAT?
What I love most about FAT is the community, the support of emerging and established artists, and the diversity! They have supported me so much by allowing me a platform to show my work, with an incredible community of artists and fashion lovers.
What does 2025 hold for you?
2025 holds a lot of experimenting and playfulness in my art. Taking risks and honoring my love for creating characters and playing dress up.
Read up on more “Faces of FAT” here.
