The energy was electric as Fashion Art Toronto (FAT) kicked off its 20th anniversary opening night! Day 1 delivered a powerful blend of creativity and culture, spotlighting designers who fuse artistry with purpose (and an opportunity for me to fangirl!). With runway moments that demanded attention and immersive experiences beyond the catwalk, FAT set a thrilling tone for the season ahead.
First Impressions of FAT Day 1
Credits: @viktoriia_lipkovska
The moment we stepped off the elevator, we knew we were in for an unforgettable night. Everyone was dressed to impress, making bold statements and pushing boundaries to showcase their unique style. Fashion wasn’t just on the runway; it was everywhere you looked. Outside the show, guests enjoyed crafted cocktails, posed against elaborate backdrops, and some even took their chance on the red carpet (if they were feeling brave)! With so much happening beyond the catwalk, FAT Day 1 became an immersive style experience that went well beyond your typical fashion event.
Lesley Hampton: Empowerment in Every Stitch
Credits: @jessbyrnephoto
Lesley Hampton’s collection was a true celebration of Indigenous culture woven into every detail. Each element felt intentional and deeply rooted in storytelling, from the intricately styled hair to the carefully chosen jewelry. We LOVED each design, whether it was a bold gown that demanded our attention or a softer, peachy tone perfect for everyday elegance. Lesley Hampton is definitely a name to watch. Her work is shaping the future of Canadian fashion with grace, purpose, and undeniable style.
Lumo Strano: Deconstructing Gender, Rebuilding Style
Credits: @mingsiu37
Lumo Strano’s Deadname collection was full of raw allure and totally fearless when it came to exploring gender identity. Each piece challenged the usual fashion rules and blurred the lines in the best way. Their performance during the show was just as unforgettable — bold, thought-provoking, and totally unique. The show featured unmatched representation across the model lineup, including the iconic Myles Sexton, which made the whole experience even more amazing. Lumo Strano is definitely pushing boundaries and making a real statement about style and identity.
Art Exhibitions
Credits: @viktoriia_lipkovska
The night was just as much about the art as the fashion. The exhibition space was packed with stunning installations and interactive displays that made for perfect photo moments (including a red carpet for your own mini photoshoot!). One of the standout experiences was the quick, 10-minute water painting session, giving guests a unique, personalized keepsake from the evening that showcased their look.Â
Fashion and Beauty Boutique
Credits: Fred Abramov
On top of that, the Fashion and Beauty boutique featured a curated selection of beautiful fashion and beauty finds, including gems like Picky Finders, STK Bijoux, and Maverick Eden. Honestly, we could have spent hours exploring every detail and finding gems. Everywhere you looked, there were breathtaking shops and treasures that made this part of FAT Day 1 an unmissable experience.
Final Thoughts
Credits: @jessbyrnephoto
FAT Day 1 was a true celebration of the incredible designers and makers shaping the Canadian fashion industry today. The creativity, passion, and diversity on display highlighted just how vibrant and dynamic the scene is right now. We had so much fun at every moment of the night. The energy was electric, and the experience felt truly alive. We left feeling inspired and amazed, already counting down the days until next season. This is one event you definitely won’t want to miss!
