From August 12 to 14, I was front row at the very first Toronto Men’s Fashion Week. It took place at the swanky Fairmont Royal York Hotel and did not disappoint. Fashion lovers were able to admire collections from up-and-coming menswear designers, as well as, ones from around the globe.

Highlights included the collection and a standing ovation for Toronto-based-brand Sons of Odin, a surprise catwalk-strut by the one and only, Stacey McKenzie, a charity fashion show, which included Canadian celebrities: Glen Baxter, Tim Warmels (The Bachelor Canada), Shawn Desman and so on, the EMDA honor rewarded to Joao Paulo Guedes and those wearing sunglasses inside.

 

As I mentioned, Sons of Odin had a standout moment and were my favorite of the week. Co-creator Charlene Martin said that,

“showing in Toronto means everything. This is our home and the support is everything we could hope for.”

Their runway show depicted men trekking through the desert in monochromatic basics, which were given an edge with lush texture, patterns and leather detailing. Co-creator Zakariah Milana describes the brand as “a representation of the modern man, edgy and dark but our clothing also has clean lines and prints.

 

Honorable mention must go to the following:

Paulo Succar

His collection was full of intense insect designs, which were repeated and remixed continuously throughout his line.

Noel Crisostomo

This is sharp, structured casual wear done right. The detailed-lazer cutouts, prints and styling had me swooning.

I cannot decide which is more entertaining, the show on or off the runway? You be the judge. See more highlights from TOM*FW below or visit, Tomfw.com.

I hope to see you next season. I will be the one without sunglasses.