Montreal, a city celebrated for its dynamic arts scene and cultural vibrancy, continues to solidify its reputation as a fashion epicenter with two major events that have become staples in the fashion calendar: the M.A.D. Fashion Fest and the up-coming Montreal Fashion Week. Each of these festivals offers a unique perspective on fashion, blending creativity, innovation, and culture, making them unmissable experiences for fashion enthusiasts and curious onlookers.
M.A.D. Fashion Fest: A Fusion of Art and Fashion and Entertainment
- The M.A.D. Fashion Fest, which recently took place at Montreal’s Place des Festivals from the 22nd to the 25th of Aug, was action-packed! This year’s edition kicked off with an exclusive VIP red carpet evening at the W Hotel, where the guest of honor, among several others, was the acclaimed stylist and costume designer Marylin Fitoussi, renowned for her work on the hit Netflix series “Emily in Paris“. The evening set the tone for what would be a remarkable celebration of fashion, art, and music.
The M.A.D. Fashion Fest was founded by Chantal Durivage ( extreme right) and her associate Jean-François Daviau, who also co-founded Groupe Sensation Mode in 1999. She serves as the Vice President of Creative Development, at the M.A.D. Festival, bringing her extensive experience and visionary approach to the event. Feature alongside her are stylist Marylin Fitoussi and sports Acupuncturist Valerie Truong – Photo: Genevieve Roy
The 24th edition of the M.A.D. Fashion Fest brought together over 300 artists for a vibrant blend of artistic performances, fashion shows, live music, and a bustling marketplace featuring local pop-up shops: (MLAU • La Petite Bourgeoise Candle Co • Matsheshu Creations • DaunaGlow • Les Saisons • Signé Zaz • Milibee • Yanél Nutritive Cosmetics • La Fée Rêve • Skincare for Weirdos • Kanope Fragrances • OkBye ……etc …)
This festival, known for its avant-garde approach, provides a platform for emerging and on trend designers and artists to showcase their work, attracting a diverse crowd of fashion-forward attendees.
While VIP attendees enjoyed exclusive access to a dedicated VIP space near the front of the main stage, everyone present at the site had the opportunity to meet and mingle with creators, artists, and influential personalities. Numerous samples and gifts from partner brands such as Kiehls, Neutrogena, and even D’Italiano Bagels added an extra touch of luxury to the experience of all festivalgoers.
For music and dance lovers , here’s a glimpse of the overall artistic program:
Thursday, August 22: Musical artists Yes*, Laroie, Vinny Bombay, and DJ Karaba kicked off the festival with electrifying performances that set the stage for the days to come. The evening also featured a standout show by Guillaum Chaigne at 7:45 PM on the Scène de la Place des Festivals, where he unveiled his latest collection, merging modern design with classic elegance.
Friday, August 23: Attendees danced the night away with performances by 20some, SLM, and the collective Vibe Benders. A highlight of the night was the 9:30 PM show by LAKUACHIMOTO, a designer known for their bold and futuristic designs that captivated the audience at the Scène de la Place des Festivals.
Saturday, August 24: Montreality celebrated its 15th anniversary with a day dedicated to rap, featuring performances by Nate Husser, Tana, Mowalola (DJ set), SEX, and Isabella Lovestory, along with several other surprises. The day also showcased the MARIE-VICTORIN Collection 2024 at 6:30 PM on the Scène de la Place des Festivals, highlighting the innovative and fresh perspectives of this fashion school’s students.
Sunday, August 25: The festival concluded with a vibrant celebration of Latin culture, highlighted by performances from Frikiton (Ed Winter, NaLi, Nana Zen, and more).
The M.A.D. Fashion Fest continues to be a pioneering event that seamlessly blends fashion with other forms of artistic expression, making it a must-attend for those looking to experience the cutting edge of creativity.
To learn more about the full program of the M.A.D. festival please visit their main website
2. La Vie en Rose presents Montreal Fashion Week: The Pinnacle of Style and Elegance
Montreal’s fashion and creative community is mobilizing to bring you the best of everything during Montreal Fashion Week :
While the M.A.D. Fashion Fest embraces a more eclectic and avant-garde approach, Montreal Fashion Week remains the epitome of sophistication and elegance.
Scheduled to take place from September 16th to 22nd 2024 , this iconic event is a beacon of style, attracting top designers, models, and fashion aficionados from around the world
Montreal Fashion Week is known for its impeccable runway shows, where designers showcase their latest collections, offering a preview of the trends that will dominate the upcoming seasons. This year’s edition promises to be particularly special, with a lineup that includes both established and emerging designers, each bringing their unique vision to the catwalk.
Key events for Montreal Fashion Week include:
–Monday, September 16th: The week kicks off with a glamorous Launch Party at the Atrium des Grands Ballets at 5 PM, setting the stage for a week of high fashion and style.
–Wednesday, September 18th: The McCord Stewart Museum hosts an Exhibition of Costume, Fashion, and Textiles at 5:30 PM, offering a deep dive into the history and artistry of fashion.
–Thursday, September 19th: The spotlight shifts to Studio Noéma in Anjou at 4 PM for the Summer Fashion Show by Mennillo, followed by a Student Open House at La Vie en Rose on Viau Street from 10 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM.
–Friday, September 20th: The Montreal Vintage Collective Market – Inedit.e takes over 6370 Blvd St-Laurent from 11 AM to 8 PM, offering a treasure trove of vintage fashion finds.
–Saturday, September 21st: A Collaborative Fashion Show on Avenue Laurier Ouest (273 Laurier Avenue West) from 6 PM to 10 PM showcases the creative synergy of multiple designers.
–Monday, September 16th to Sunday, September 22nd: The Wool Exhibition at Complexe Desjardins offers a week-long exploration of wool’s versatility in fashion, with the full schedule available online.
In addition to the runway shows, Montreal Fashion Week offers a series of panel discussions, workshops, and networking events, providing industry professionals and fashion enthusiasts with the opportunity to gain insights into the latest trends, technologies, and business strategies shaping the fashion world.
To learn more about the complete programming of the Festival and to reserve access to workshops, panels and events please visit: https://en.semainemodemtl.com/
As Montreal prepares to host these two remarkable festivals, the city is once again poised to welcome the spotlights in the global fashion arena.
Whether you’re drawn to the artistic and experimental vibe of the M.A.D. Fashion Fest or the polished and refined atmosphere of Montreal Fashion Week, these events offer something for every fashion lover. So, mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of fashion, creativity, and culture in the heart of Montreal.