Last night, the festivities at Toronto Fashion Week SS19 officially came to a grand finale, with Day 3 of TFW wrapping up the three-day extravaganza of shows and panels. Over the past two days, Real Style had the opportunity to catch both rising and renowned Canadian designers on the Yorkville runways and in the RESET studio showroom. As we look back on the Spring 2019 season of Toronto Fashion Week, here’s our front row report on the latest Canadian trends for the season ahead.  

ZOFF 

Toronto-based designer Michael Zoffranieri graduated from Ryerson University’s School of Fashion in 2016, but the two years since have seen him go from classroom to catwalk. Zoffranieri’s CAFA-nominated eveningwear label ZOFF returned to the Toronto Fashion Week circuit, this time with a cheekily titled Bitch At The Beach collection. From a black column dress paired with fluffy angel wings to airy white dresses, there was drama and fierce femininity in the air. Meanwhile, silky ivory fabric also made an appearance, in the form of sleeveless blouses and straight trousers. However, colour was on the menu as well- with occasional pops of violet, green and metallic silver lighting up the runway.  

Hilary MacMillan  

Toronto womenswear designer Hilary MacMillan also emphasized femininity for Spring 2019, with her punchy collection of pastel blue and pink prints. Models walked the runway wearing powder blue in all variations, from a slip dress to structured blazers and flowing trousers. Meanwhile, peasant tunics and frocks with a blue and white bohemian motif were a statement look. The bohemian vibes continued, in the form of a signature red and print paisley print on coat dresses, sleeveless belted dresses and cropped trousers.  

Tara Rivas 

The rising design star truly brought the party to the RESET studio in Yorkville Village, with a PARTY! lineup which also marked the third anniversary of her eponymous label. Staying true to the celebratory vibes in the air, Rivas’ latest collection was marked by luminous silver glitter.  This metallic sparkle adorned everything from a fitted crop top and matching flared pants to floor-length gowns. Colourblocking, shades of red and blue and side cut-outs were all signature looks, while an assortment of balloons transformed the studio setting into a true fête. 

Christopher Paunil  

The Canadian eveningwear designer partnered up with sponsor Herman-Sellers-Gough Furs to present a new collection of both evening gowns and bridalwear. On the bridal front, Paunil stayed true to tradition, with voluminous ivory gowns, strapless necklines and the occasional V-neckline. Meanwhile, eveningwear verged into more daring territory, with pops of vivid yellow, black and white houndstooth prints and a dramatic, iridescent gown which channelled mermaid vibes.   

Hendrixroe  

Designer Jordan Erin McKay has become recognized for her high energy and bubbly demeanour at this point, a quality which always comes across in her rock and roll inspired runway shows. As expected, the Hendrixroe closing show on Day 2 brought audiences quite the celebration, in the form of Toronto rappers k-os and Jazz Cartier opening with a joint performance. On the fashion front, models marched onward, eschewing the expressionless, somber faces often seen on the catwalks, in favour of sassy poses and the occasional stuck-out tongue. Designs for the season ahead ranged from sheer plastic raincoats and bodycon dresses to brilliant suiting in shades of cobalt blue, yellow and pink. Prints were also a key look, along with dramatic long coats and jaunty fedoras as accessories.  

Daniel Gregory Natale  

Toronto-born and New York City-trained designer Daniel Gregory Natale put on a striking, edgy presentation in the RESET showroom. Natale stayed true to his love of deconstruction, with boxy silhouettes, layered white tops and light wash denim marking the collection. The long tunic blouses, voluminous trousers and cut-out sleeves may not have been for everyone, but they certainly made a statement, particularly when paired with the floral ornaments placed in models’ hair.  

Photos: George Pimentel for Toronto Fashion Week