The Toronto Fashion Incubator‘s annual New Label’s show has always been a good opportunity to brush up on up-and-coming Canadian clothing brands.
For 2012 the competition has new heft thanks to the addition of a $25,000 cash prize donated by philanthropist Suzanne Rogers in addition to its usual haul of industry mentoring, press exposure and free studio space.
We asked the designers behind this year’s four finalist labels, Diego Fuchs and Helder Aguiar of [blak]-i, Genevieve Pearson and Stanley Capobianco of Jameson Kane, Patrick L’Arrivee and Sid Neigum, to offer up some hints about what we’ll see on the catwalk during tomorrow evening’s gala at the Royal Ontario Museum and how they’ll spend that cash if they win?
New label: [blak]-i
Why did you decide to enter the competition?
It’s very hard for young designers to get financing from outside sources so having a contest like this opens doors. This contest has given us the opportunity to show our label to a larger audience and meet important individuals in the fashion industry in Canada.
What’s the story behind your fall collection?
Our collection blends a formal tuxedo look with the rawness of street wear and the functionality of athletic apparel. The collection ranges from modern, intricately cut denim to fluid jersey pieces and cutting edge leather garments, all with a subtle yet vibrant accent of neon yellow.
How will you spend the prize if you win?
The cash prize will allows us to take on bigger orders since we would have the financing needed to produce larger volumes. As the old saying goes, you need money to make money.
New label: Jameson Kane
Why did you decide to enter the competition?
When we started the company in November of last year, we wanted to get a studio at TFI. It just so happened that at the time we inquired about the space, TFI New Labels was happening. We thought it would be a great opportunity to help launch our brand new business.
What’s the story behind your fall collection?
Jameson Kane is a women’s outerwear brand. Our collection consists of 12 wool coats with leather detailing. The silhouettes range from long, fuller jackets to tailored short jackets. Most silhouettes were inspired by 1950s shapes with fitted waists and fuller hems.
How will you spend the prize if you win?
The cash prize would help to fund our first production and will also be invested into our spring/summer collection.
New label: Patrick L’Arrivee
Why did you decide to enter the competition?
I spent the first two years of my business building my team and perfecting my product. I’m now sold in 57 stores in Canada! I felt it was time to show the world what I do and TFI New Labels is the perfect opportunity to do that.
What’s the story behind your fall collection?
My commercial collection has many shapes and colours but for the show I decided to make a strong and cohesive black and white statement called Metamorphosis. The silhouette is ultra-tailored with draping elements and capes cut in wool and leather.
How will you spend the prize if you win?
The next challenge I have is to produce everything that was ordered. The money will definitely help with that. I will also use it to push forward the brand through professional campaigns and hopefully more shows very soon!
New label: Sid Neigum
Why did you decide to enter the competition?
I knew it would be a great opportunity to learn and get expert advice. Also, winning $25,000 would help bring my company to a whole new level.
What’s the story behind your fall collection?
The concept of the collection was to update and modernize the cuts and silhouettes of classic pieces while using high-end fabrics in unconventional combinations. Washable leather, waterproof nylon, Italian cashmere and Japanese linen are the dominant fabrics in a dark, muted palette.
How will you spend the prize if you win?
First, I would get the machines and equipment I need to complete and upgrade my current live-in studio. An industrial cover hem is high up on that list. I’d then invest in producing samples for SS13 and production for FW12. I’d also like to get a New York PR agency like Nuevo or Mao.
