ListenThe 13th edition of Montreal’s Festival of Fashion and Design got under way today, on a short avenue between McGill University and the iconic Place Ville Marie. For the next 3 days and nights, it will be the scene of fashion shows, musical spectacles, make-up make-overs and design competitions that include even the city’s benches.
year © FDF
Everyone let their hair down around noon to either take part in, or watch, the High-Heel Relay Race. Proceeds from this event go to support Le Chainon, a local women’s shelter that’s been operating for 80 years now.
This evening, under clear skies, France’s Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, a designer who’s created some of the fantastic costumes worn by Katie Perry, Lady Gaga, will mesmerize with his Fantomes show. It’s described as, “an artistic performance created by Jean-Charles de Castelbajac and Mr Nô, the juncture between man (drawings) and technology (électro music). 60 models will perform as 60 ghosts dressed in «Pop Tribal» inspired tunics.”
on at Montreal’s McCord Museum
On Thusday, in collaboration with Montreal’s McCord Museum and the Casino de Montreal, there’ll be a Grace Kelly Style contest and fashion show.
Music and design are major attractions during the festival. Montreal has two fashion design programs, one at Lasalle College and another at CEGEP Marie Victorin, and the students’ work will be highlighted during the event. Some of Quebec’s best D.J.’s will be accompanying the many spectacles on the catwalk, and various celebreties will be modelling including former Olympic skater, Joannie Rochette.
Saturday afternoon at Place Ville Marie style in all its varied forms is celebrated in the Body Diversity fashion show. Organizers are prepared, and in case of rain, the show will go on eventually.
Carmel Kilkenny spoke with Genevieve Borne, spokesperson for the festival:
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