It was a beautiful evening for the second annual Fashion Collective Series show in partnership with the Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards (CAFA) at Friday Harbour Resort on Saturday hosted by TV personality Nicole Servinis.
Dozens of elegantly dressed spectators lined the pier, which transformed into a runway, to catch a glimpse of the models sporting the latest collections of everything from resort to evening wear, by Canadian designers like Pink Tartan, SHAN, Bikini Haus, Nareces, Whitney Linen, Hilary MacMillan and Balessa.
"When we hosted our first Fashion Collective Series at Friday Harbour in the summer of 2021, we knew we were onto something magical. Providing a platform for Canadian designers, models, retailers and brands to showcase their talent was truly a one-of-a-kind experience. We are thrilled to be partnering with CAFA once again to host this year's guests and welcome residents, the local community, and beyond to discover our vibrant destination," said Hani Roustom, CEO of Friday Harbour.
"CAFA is thrilled to partner again with Friday Harbour on this exciting series that not only creates awareness and support for our Canadian retailers and brands but also provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with new communities and consumers. Friday Harbour offers a stunning setting to showcase some of our best design talent," added CAFA's President Vicky Milner.
Milner encouraged the audience to "Google the brands you see tonight, follow them on social, buy things in the marketplace because you're supporting an entire industry and all the people that are in it."
Afterwards, guests were able to shop the various accessories and apparel from the pop-up designer market set on the boardwalk while enjoying live music from the Leo Orlov trio.
Part of the event's ticket sales proceeds is being donated to the not-for-profit organization, Dress For Success Barrie and Orillia.
The worldwide organization advocates for women and non-binary individuals re-entering the workforce and is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The Barrie and Orillia chapter was established in 2014.
"It's an amazing cause and we are really grateful to have them on board so we can help give back," said Servinis.
Dress of Success Executive Director Linda Reid thanked the guests and resort for their support.
"Dress for Success is so honoured to be a part of this event," said Reid, who noted the demand for their services has increased 600 per cent this year. "We have more and more women coming looking for support, so this event and the proceeds will help us very much."
The show will take place again next Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. with the pop-up market open all weekend long.
To learn more, visit Friday Harbour Resort's event page here.
