After captivating audiences at the M.A.D Festival last summer, Helmer Joseph, Montreal’s celebrated fashion designer, unveiled his latest collection, “The Cotton Route of Haiti,” last Thursday, February 22nd, 2024, at WIP MONTRÉAL.
The unveiling of the collection was an exclusive event, attended by media, fashion writers, and members of the Haitian community from Canada, the United States, and Montreal.
The evening commenced with a lively expo-cocktail at 6 p.m., featuring tasty bites by renowned Chef Paul Toussaint, followed by the fashion show at 7 p.m., directed by Tinashe Musara.
This exceptional showcase celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Haiti and its connection to cotton, also known as “The White Gold of the Caribbean.“
Supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cults of the Republic of Haiti, “The Cotton Route of Haiti” project aims to promote Haitian arts and crafts while showcasing the significance of cotton in Haiti’s history.
The collection pays homage to three traditional cotton fabrics: Karabella, Siam, and Abako, each representing a unique aspect of Haitian culture.
Karabella and Siam, traditionally used in Haitian costumes, are re-imagined in modern and avant-garde designs by Helmer Joseph. These fabrics, once manufactured in Haitian factories, hold historical significance and cultural relevance.
Additionally, the collection features Abako, a denim fabric widely utilized in Haiti.
In celebration of Black History Month, Helmer Joseph invited attendees to learn about and explore the journey of cotton and its impact on Haitian culture.
The event also showcased the works of three talented painters: Marie Denise Douyon, Pascal Smarth, and Komi Seshie, in collaboration with Nicole Baptiste from SAVAC and Mosaïque interculturelle.
About Helmer Joseph: Born in Gonaïves, Haiti, Helmer Joseph is a trailblazing figure in the world of fashion. With a career spanning over two decades, Joseph has garnered international acclaim for his innovative designs and dedication to promoting Haitian culture.
Trained at prestigious institutions such as ESMOD in Paris and the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, Joseph has collaborated with renowned fashion houses including Thierry Mugler and Christian Dior.
He is also a passionate educator, imparting his knowledge to future generations of fashion designers in Canada and Haiti.
For inquiries and further information on Helmer, please visit :