Montreal has always been a hub of creative fashion design but recent years have seen the city’s style scene reach new heights. With local brands gaining global attention and fresh young talent reenergizing Montreal fashion, there is an undeniable buzz in the air. Based on the latest fashion guides, Montreal resources and credible media from the past year, here’s an in-depth look at the trends, designers and must-see style spots shaping Montreal fashion in 2023.
Emerging Designers Take Center Stage
A new crop of emerging designers is highlighting Montreal’s reputation for innovative fashion-forward style. Local brands like Milanola and UNTTLD are gaining attention for their sleek, minimalist designs while others like Valérie Dumaine infuse handicraft into modern silhouettes. Homegrown brands like Helmer, Polette and Atelier Bélina bring the flair with bold patterns, intricate details and punchy hues inspired by the city’s art and architecture. Exciting new designers like Louve, Samuel Mercure and Petite Perle offer effortlessly cool streetwear and casual essentials.
Genderless Fashion & Androgynous Style
Gender fluidity continues to define Montreal style in 2023. Brands like Omi Woods and Halü bring a contemporary unisex edge through oversized fits and neutral color palettes. Many designers embrace elements of both masculine and feminine style. Details like boxy cuts and loose silhouettes combined with delicate fabrics and soft colors create an androgynous aesthetic. Topping off the looks are chunky footwear, beanies and structured bags suited for all identities and expressions.
Vintage & Sustainable Finds
Second-hand and consignment shopping is huge, with boutiques like Eva B and Kilo Shop offering racks of curated vintage pieces. Iconic vintage stores like Friperie St-Laurent and Friperie Renaissance supply endless throwback fashion inspiration. Shopping pre-loved and vintage clothing prevents waste while offering unique, one-of-a-kind finds. Montreal designers are also adopting eco-conscious practices like zero-waste pattern cutting and organic textiles. The growing sustainable movement makes ethical choices fashionable.
Fur Alternatives
The anti-fur movement has significantly impacted Montreal’s renowned fur industry. Many local luxury designers like Rudsak and Mackage now use faux fur or ethically sourced fur alternatives like alpaca wool in their designs. Some brands have dropped fur altogether, focusing on sustainable textiles and original details to create the opulence and warmth fur-free. Montreal has adjusted to changing attitudes while still producing cutting-edge cold weather style.
Artistic & Avant-Garde Looks
Montreal’s flourishing arts scene provides constant inspiration for experimental fashion design. Local clothing often features bold prints, graphics, customized textiles and deconstructed tailoring for an avant-garde look. Some designers derive inspiration from architecture, like the geometric accents and fluid forms seen at UNTTLD. Others draw from graffiti and street art like the colorful graphics of Envers Design. Expect the unexpected as Montreal designers fuse art and fashion to transcend conventions.
Classic Stylish Winterwear
Practicality meets panache when it comes to Montreal winter fashion essentials. Brands like Rudsak, Kanuk and Quartz Co. keep locals stylishly insulated against the cold with premium parkas, sleek leather gloves and cozy knits. Shearling details, fur trims (faux or ethical) and goose down insulation amp up the warmth without sacrificing style. Accessories get a runway treatment too with designers reinventing winter gear like hats, mukluks and ski masks.
The Mile End Neighborhood
For the ideal mix of independent boutiques, vintage shops and hip local designers, no area beats the Mile End. Stroll along St. Laurent Boulevard and Avenue Mont-Royal to discover unique clothing, jewelry, apothecaries, galleries and more. Trendy boutiques like Annex Vintage and Citizen Vintage keep vintage fashion circulating. Other popular stops include Unicorn for artisan crafts and minimalist styles and the eclectic Vesco Vintage. Bibelot, Coup Bizar and Mars allow you to curate denim looks from top Montreal brands.
Runway Shows & Fashion Events
Montreal hosts several major fashion events each year showcasing local design talent. Top designers like Marie Saint Pierre and UNTTLD present their new collections at Montreal Fashion Week held in August. The prestigious Festival Mode & Design takes over the city each August and September with industry events, demos, an eclectic market and 30+ runway shows. Year-round, venues like Théâtre Paradoxe and Darling Foundry host creative designer showcases and popup shops.
That covers the major trends and highlights to watch for on Montreal’s 2023 fashion scene. With local brands on the rise, emerging young talent and a rich heritage of creativity, Montreal continues to earn its reputation as Canada’s style capital.