An Evening in the Historic Distillery District of Toronto
Startup Fashion Week is a vibrant annual celebration held in Toronto, and it’s all about showcasing the incredible talent of emerging designers. Launched back in 2014, the visionary founder Jodi Goodfellow created this event with a clear purpose: to provide opportunities for rising Models, Entrepreneurs, Designers, and Creative folks to shine. But it’s not just about the runway! Jodi and her amazing production team put together a variety of engaging events, from a lively Launch Party to insightful talks about the business side of fashion.
Fashion events are essential for designers in a world where retail is largely online. While the internet offers seemingly boundless access to the global market, standing out amidst fierce competition can be quite challenging. New talent must rise above the noise and hype by showcasing innovative materials, techniques, and structures, all while keeping sustainability in mind. Fashion events provide the networking prospect and the ‘touch and feel’ of humanity. The real opportunity for newcomers lies in embracing the niche and bespoke quality found in the slow fashion movement. Excitingly, for this year’s event, TorontoPages was granted selective access to attend the evening. Let’s look at the lineup of these upcoming talented designers for 2026.
Rue De Mort
The brand is founded in Toronto by two creatives, one in design and the other in visual storytelling.
“We are drawn to crime cinema, horror, and psychological thrillers, stories in which what someone carries feels inseparable from who they are.”
Cinematic characters come to life through their unique accessories and styles, adding layers and richness to the story. The brand is certainly on the right track in carving out its identity. While their current selection might be limited, that’s totally understandable at this stage. One piece that truly shines for me is ‘The Ledger’ purse. With its sleek shape and bold lines, it’s the perfect companion for stashing a couple of latex gloves and an evidence bag. Fun and functional!
www.ruedemort.store ig: @ruedemort
Lure Apparel
Get ready for the debut collection from Lure Apparel, titled ‘Shift,’ showcased on the runway. The creative mind behind this exciting brand is none other than Sara Danzinger, proudly representing Winnipeg. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant world of street style, Sara has crafted a collection that offers a lighter, softer aesthetic. Infusing elements of music and art, ‘Shift’ is all about embracing those summer vibes, perfect for enjoying the streets and relaxing in the parks. It’s a collection that’s not just about fashion; it’s about living life with flair and fun!
www.lureapparel.ca ig: @lure_apparel
Ms.CarryOne
Behind the Ms.CarryOne brand is the inspiring philosophy and vision of Ruth Carvalho, the dynamic founder who wears many hats: mother, daughter, storyteller, and globetrotter. Ruth delights in international cuisine, diverse cultures, languages, and music. Her mission? To transform the travel experience for women everywhere.
She drew from her own travel struggles like lugging around heavy suitcases and juggling too few outfit options, to create a brand that empowers women to travel lighter and smarter. With Ms.CarryOne, Ruth is all about helping women embrace the idea of having more with less.
This Brazilian-inspired collection, proudly crafted in Canada, features lightweight pieces that can be effortlessly mixed and matched for a variety of looks, all straight from your suitcase. Ruth and her dedicated team are passionately developing a slow-fashion line, thoughtfully designed with intention and care. Travel just got a whole lot more stylish!
mscarryone.com ig: @ms.carryone
Exergonic
Currently calling Toronto home and studying at OCAD University, Michael Michael is an award-winning writer, poet, musician, and designer, the creative force behind the Exergonic brand. Originally from Vancouver, this multi-talented artist thrives on weaving together personal experiences, contemporary issues, and the delightful oddities of life into his written and textile creations. When he’s not busy crafting, you can find him soaking up the local scene at events, diving into films, enjoying café vibes, or exploring the city.
In December 2024, Michael proudly launched EXERGONIC, an all-knitted, couture fashion line that merges art and energy in a way that’s both striking and playful. The sculptural details and innovative stitch patterns of his designs bring an element of fun to the world of fashion!
www.exergonic.ca ig: @exergonic.fashion
Soffio Di Como
Dive into a world of vibrant colors and dynamic graphic designs! The stunning landscapes of Lake Como and the Lombardy region serve as the perfect muse for these lively scenic patterns. Soffio Di Como brings to life a rich Italian aesthetic that merges the region’s iconic architecture and picturesque countryside with the exquisite flow of satin and the feminine charm of Italian craftsmanship in fashion.
Embracing a playful nod to the past, this style is anachronistic transporting us back to the thrilling vibes of 1960s spy films. Picture yourself at daytime jazz lounge; or cruising on a classic Cadenazzi wooden speedboat across the lake, then hopping into a Maserati Ghibli Spyder to whisk off to the Milano Exchange for an exciting weekend getaway. It’s all about living life with flair and elegance!
It is early for the brand as they work through to the startup process and we cannot wait to see the website develop to learn more about this brand.
www.soffiodicomo.com ig: @sofiodicomo
MEESH
Micheline Wedderburn has a knack for transforming usually overlooked or tossed-away materials into stunning products. With her imaginative approach, she’s inviting us to rethink the gap between fast fashion and sustainability. Just take those reusable shopping bags, they were meant to tackle the plastic bag problem, but now they’ve thrown us a curveball of their own! Micheline’s fashion creations, like dresses, tops, and pants made from these bags, serve as a playful reminder of the real issues we face. We definitely need more designers like her to bring these challenges into the spotlight and inspire us with their creativity.
Ig: @meesh.to
Miedor Eporwei
The quality and exquisite details of the custom hand crafted bridal gowns from Miedor Eporwei are outstanding.
“My journey as a bridal designer has taken me across continents, from studying bridalwear in Paris to fashion production in Milan, and earning my Master’s degree in Fashion Design in San Francisco. I began with a foundation in Psychology in Ottawa, Canada- an education that continues to shape how I listen, understand, and connect deeply with each bride.”
Nestled in Edmonton AB there has been a journey of discovery and adventure in bridal fashion. Honing of skills and learning to craft these very special garments has clearly being done with passion. With only one shot to make a statement for a bride’s special day, understanding fit, form and structure is not enough. It’s also about understanding a bride’s unique style and empowering her. Miedor Eporwei is without compromise, elevating the occasion starts from the first sketch to the final stitch.
www.miedore.com ig: @miedor_eporwei
Bad Kitty Kimono
Discover the vibrant spirit of the Pura Vida lifestyle with our beautifully crafted silk robes, inspired by the stunning Nosara coast of Costa Rica! Designed by the talented Nicole Regan, who gracefully balances her life between Vancouver and the tranquil wellness vibe of this Costa Rican gem, these robes are a true homage to the region’s wild beauty.
Adorned with playful patterns of lush foliage, leopard prints, and exotic snakes, each piece flows around you just like silk should. Whether you’re looking to cool down, enjoy some sun protection, maintain a bit of modesty, or add a hint of sensuality or flirtation to your day, these kimonos have got you covered. Plus, all garments are proudly printed and made right here in Canada. Embrace the adventure and elegance they bring to your wardrobe.
Ig: @bad.kitty.kimono
Joey Cartz Clothing (Presenting Sponsor)
Bringing dapper style back to golf fashion with some vibrant plaid. With a perfectly tailored fit that transitions seamlessly from the green to the clubhouse, we’re all about making a statement. As someone who champions the suit vest, I proudly embrace the rebellious spirit of our kind, those who are dressed so sharply, they could never be asked to leave! It’s as if the Three Stooges and Marx Brothers were in on the joke the moment Bing Crosby strolled into the 19th hole. And with a more relaxed dress code prevailing at work, it just gives us another great reason to hang out with our friends in our best gear. Let’s keep that spirit alive.
www.joeycartz.com ig: @joeycartzclothing
All photos by: @royboycephoto
