From Fast Fashion To Ritzy Carpet Wear, Celebs and Designers Were Serving ‘Mega’ Looks At TO’s Newest Fashion Pulse; The Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards.
header photo via designer Marie-Eve Lecavalier.
For years Canada was the ‘underdog’ amongst the International Fashion Scene – but that’s all about to change. Toronto is now one of the most culturally rich cities, globally. By investing in our diverse yet un-tapped talent, we hold the latest X-Factor needed to join the center stage with traditional fashion capitals around the world — including London, Paris, Milan, and New York. Since 2012 this chic ceremony has been promoting all things Canadian in beauty and fashion right here at home. So stay tuned for the ultimate guide to our brightest.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NIGHT: WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING FOR…
A MASTER-IN CRAFT AKA: The Outstanding Achievement Award
Recipient: Douglas Kirkland

Photo via CAFA www.cafawards.ca
This world-renowned photographer has been ‘workin it’ since the 1960’s capturing famed icons like Marilyn Monroe, Mick Jagger & Angelina Jolie. Douglas has worked some of the biggest motion pictures in Hollywood, including, The Sound of Music (1964), Titanic (1997) and The Great Gatsby (2011). Douglas is no doubt an ‘OG’ holding it down for Canada, as his camera has graced over 600 celebs to date.
DESIGNERS ‘SLAYING’ THE STREETS:
AKA: The Menswear Designer of the Year Award
Recipient: Christopher Bates
Christopher Bates, Photo via DTK
Did someone say lipstick on the collar? Christopher’s signature design leaves many of his sleek suits with a sexy, flirtatious emblem of red lips near the neckline. His playful brand has already landed him in Nordstrom, Harry Rosen, Gotstyle, and Espy. So…Men if you want to up your closet game, Bates is a household name bound to keep you On-Trend.
AKA: The Womenswear Designer of the Year Award
Recipient: Sid Neigum

Sid Neigum, Photo via WIKI
Ladies if you feel, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication than you have met your match with Sid Neigum’s. A TO designer who prioritizes essentialism has dressed none other than Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, Jennifer Aniston & Jada Smith.
AKA: The International Canadian Designer Award
Recipient: Aurora James

Aurora James, Photo Via Refinery29
This TO native has expanded her brand to NY and continues to source overseas. Drawing inspirations from local artisans in the ‘motherland’ picking up the latest from South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Morocco.
AKA: The Swarovski Award For Emerging Talent
Recipient: Marie-Ève Lecavalier

Marie Eve Lecavalier via Simons
Fashion is not just for the elite; Marie has captured the magic of the suburban, by making anecdotes in her designs hinting at her personal experience growing up in Montréal. Marie is bringing that subculture to the world stage, so keep an eye out for her one-of-the-kind creations at Simons.
KEEPING IT FIERCE
During the CAFA, Canada awarded our very own legendary Tasha Tilberg for The Model of the Year Award. Celebrated for her contributions and overall impact on fashion.

Tasha Tilberg by Mark Rabadan
To get a complete list of the CAFA nominations and honorees, check out…
https://cafawards.ca/cafa-2019/2019-winners/
Check out a few snaps from the event (images provided by CAFA):
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