Montreal: Fashion Week fast approaching

Montreal Fashion Week is almost here.  Taking over the Bonsecours Market in old Montreal (October 13 to 17, montrealfashionweek.ca), the 15th edition of the event is more daring than ever, presenting many young, hip up-and-coming designers as well as the classic, timeless warriors, such as Marie Saint-Pierre, Helmer and many others. Here’s what I’m excited about:

First off, for all of us who loved Project Runway Canada, two of the contestants will be in town for the event: winner Evan Biddel is taking part in a press cocktail, while runner-up Lucian Matis is presenting some of his Spring 2009 collection.

After presenting in Toronto last season, and sparking jealousy here at home, the underground god of fashion, Denis Gagnon, is rising from his financial trouble and showing in Montreal once again. (He’ll also have a show at L’Oréal Fashion Week.) Travis Taddeo, a young sensation in the nightlife scene, will take to the catwalk for the very first time this season.

Of course, fashion week is only open to media, buyers and industry professionals, so why am I even talking about this? Because Laboratoire Créatif, a non-profit organization helping young designers, is presenting their Diva runway show, benefitting Look Good Feel Better, on October 16 ($30, labcreatif.ca). Hosted by Mitsou, the show is open to the public and features Quebec designers and creations inspired by Maria Callas. Many stars from the province will go down the catwalk and a VIP reception will follow the show. Who said fashion was only for a select few? Come on down!

Shown: Marie Saint Pierre Fall 2008. Photography by Jimmy Hamelin, courtesy of Sensation Mode.

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