Fashion Art Toronto

As a designer, I often begin by reflecting upon themes and elements of nostalgia; places I have been, stories and lessons that my family passes down, and the gifts and items that share meaning between us. I am endlessly inspired by the powerful women in my family, and I am always looking for ways to incorporate the skills and creativity they have bestowed upon me into my work, celebrating generations of love, craft, and art. Fashion has always been an opportunity for me to try new things. When a project is not working out, I know that is not a sign to abandon the idea, rather, to approach it in a new way. Fashion is a challenge, every project an opportunity to test your skill, talent, and imagination, working to define your purpose, style, and goals in the process.

In my final graduate collection at TMU, I am excited to utilize the multitude of skills I have had the opportunity to learn and practice over the past 3 years of my education, tailoring them to create a final collection I am proud to present. The work I am creating involves calling upon arts and crafts skills I have practiced since my childhood, but not yet had the opportunity to apply to my work thus far. In this process, I am inspired by winter, the way that as a child I would get dressed to go play outside in the snow; all dolled up. I am motivated to improve my quilting abilities, practicing my skillset on different materials and garments than what I am previously used to. I am excited for Mass Exodus 2025, and just as thrilled to see my peers' hard work showcased on the runway!

Photos by @cosplay & @Prevalentfocus

Emma Wood is a fashion designer whose work is driven by a passion for sustainability, inclusivity, and the exploration of queerness and gender-fluid design. Drawing inspiration from art, culture, and personal experiences, Emma creates bold, thoughtful pieces that challenge traditional fashion boundaries while emphasizing environmental responsibility. By upcycling materials and repurposing garments, Emma brings new life to forgotten fabrics, reducing waste and showcasing the transformative power of fashion. With a keen interest in breaking gender norms, Emma's designs celebrate individuality and self-expression, often blending elements of masculinity and femininity to create fluid, androgynous silhouettes. Inspired by everyday objects, retro style, and sustainable maximalism, Emma embraces bold colors, textures, and statement styles. At the heart of Emma’s design philosophy is the belief that fashion should be both an art form and a platform for social change. Through her work, Emma seeks to disrupt conventional fashion narratives, sparking conversations around sustainability, inclusivity, and the freedom to express one's true self.

The "Death of Glitter" top and pants embody the principles of sustainability and inclusion through upcycling and a celebration of queerness. Inspired by the film Velvet Goldmine, which champions glam rock and androgyny, this design reflects the breaking of gender norms and the visibility of queerness. The upcycled top repurposes a damaged sequin top and satin robe, transforming them into a striking, asymmetrical piece. This approach reduces waste and highlights the power of reusing materials. The bold design disrupts traditional gender norms, blending masculinity and femininity to challenge the concept of "normal" dress. The "Death of Glitter" outfit is a statement piece that encourages dialogue around queer identity, and sustainability.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Find Emma's work on @emmaknitz on Instagram 

As a designer, I pride myself on my creativity and ability to think outside the box. Specializing in menswear, I strive to push boundaries and create pieces that are both unconventional and forward-thinking. My designs are a reflection of my diverse inspirations—whether it’s the bold forms of modern architecture, the fluidity of contemporary art, or the unique textures and colors I encounter while traveling. I approach each collection with a focus on silhouette, playing with proportions and lines to create garments that are not only stylish but sculptural. For me, menswear isn’t just about clothing; it’s about creating wearable art that challenges traditional norms and speaks to a sense of individuality. Each piece is carefully crafted to offer something fresh and unexpected, transforming everyday fashion into an expression of personality and vision.

For my capstone project, I am exploring the themes of "Harmony" and "Contrast" through my collection, "Coexistence." Inspired by my passion for philosophy and psychology, I aim to express how seemingly opposing forces are not only interconnected but essential to our existence. Harmony and contrast may appear at odds, yet their dynamic interplay is what shapes our experiences and perceptions. Drawing from works like *The Virtue of Harmony* by Chenyang Li and Dascha Düring, and *Opposites Attract: Discordant Harmony in Pride and Prejudice*, my designs reflect how opposing elements can create a surprising and enriching unity. Through this collection, I invite viewers to appreciate the beauty of contrasts, revealing how they can coexist harmoniously, just as they do in life itself.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Find Isabella's work at lianos.ca (external link, opens in new window) 

Jasmine Tolentino is a fashion designer with meticulous attention to detail and a strong focus on precision. Drawing inspiration from a range of styles—from streetwear to evening wear—she designs with the goal of creating pieces that are both visually striking and functional. Driven and focused, she relentlessly pursues her high standards, crafting designs that are not only meaningful but also wearable. Tolentino is dedicated to creating a lasting impact through thoughtfully designed and visually compelling pieces that connect deeply with the wearer.

The Chroma by CLAJÉ Emit SS25 collection explores the intersection of masculinity, innovative design, and queer expression through bold, ready-to-wear garments. Blending functionality with playful design, the collection is inspired by bioluminescence and aims to empower individuals to express their authentic selves. Chroma is committed to creating transformative pieces that empower confidence and self-expression. Look 03, designed by Jasmine Tolentino, features the Lumi mesh top, Angler Japanese denim jeans, and Lantern shimmering denim jacket. Inspired by the radiant glow of bioluminescent flora and fauna, Look 03 captures the interplay of light and shadow. Each piece in the collection seamlessly blends bold design and fluidity, encouraging wearers to confidently embrace their individuality.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Kristi Low is in her final year of TMU’s Fashion program. As a designer, she values storytelling and exploration. She is often inspired by her identity and Asian culture. Whether they are visually present or, more subtly, informing her inspiration and the narrative behind her designs, they are ever-present. Kristi believes that creating can be a way to work through experiences and learn more about herself. She also believes that fashion is a powerful tool to help advocate for important issues such as inclusivity and sustainability. Although it is a massive issue, Kristi is determined to use environmental sustainability as, not only a parameter she works within but, a source of inspiration she can incorporate into her work. Ultimately, Kristi hopes that through her creations, there is something the viewer or wearer can relate to and/or learn about.

"ena(r)mour" is inspired by classic Greek literature & mythology through a feminist lens. They are intended to be a reclamation and celebration of femininity and the power that can come with it. As Greek Mythology often villanizes women, this look was inspired by research that flipped the narrative to show that this was only because these women had the power to either intimidate others or protect themselves. Utilizing fashion as a form of protection has emerged as a significant aspect of discussions surrounding the feminist movement, and I find it interesting to explore and integrate it into my work. In Ancient Greece, armour was only created and worn by male soldiers. Therefore, this look combats this gender norm by presenting garments that are visually inspired by armour. Ultimately, "ena(r)mour" is meant to showcase a juxtaposition between soft and structured to represent a strength in femininity.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Lauren Constantino is currently completing her third year, studying Fashion Design at Toronto Metropolitan University. Her work is informed by her intersectional identity as a queer Filipino/Pakistani woman. This body of identity-based work aims to be inherently inclusive and liberating. It seeks to unravel common experiences amongst the communities that she is a part of. She is currently working as a production sewer in Toronto

The Sapne two piece coordinated set explores themes of generational trauma, control, and dreams of an escape. It consists of both an upcycled top and organza pants, taking inspiration from Manish Malhotra’s work in 90s-00s bollywood movies, such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Kushi Khabie Gham. This set created from a thrifted table runner, the top features various princess seams and style lines whilst being sustainable. It is detailed with beaded trim, as well as a hand beaded neckline, done with swarovski crystals and seed beads; honouring traditional desi handwork. The pants are created from iridescent organza, featuring a lace up side seam that reveals shorts underneath.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Find Lauren's work on @laurensaraconstantino on Instagram

Mirabelle Zhou is a designer who transforms personal narratives and societal challenges into bold, innovative fashion. Her work celebrates individuality and empowerment, inspired by her experiences confronting gender inequality and the desire to spark meaningful conversations through design. Mirabelle’s style thrives on contrasts—combining sensuality with strength, tradition with innovation, and structure with fluidity. Her collections challenge norms while remaining effortlessly wearable, reflecting a balance between artistry and functionality. Passionate about sustainability, she incorporates upcycled fabrics, laser-cut materials, and 3D-printed hardware to redefine modern fashion. Each piece is more than clothing; it’s a statement, inviting wearers to embrace their identity and challenge conventions. For Mirabelle, storytelling is central to her creative process. She draws inspiration from personal experiences, art, and cultural diversity, crafting designs that encourage self-expression and highlight the beauty in resilience and individuality.

“Sexy Switched” is Mirabelle Zhou’s capstone collection, inspired by the gaze on gender inequality and her journey navigating societal labels. This collection reimagines traditional gendered aesthetics through bold, asymmetrical silhouettes, striking textures, and daring details. The designs use sustainable materials, including upcycled fabrics, laser-cut components, and 3D-printed hardware, merging environmental consciousness with artistic innovation. Each piece tells a story of exclusion, resilience, and empowerment, creating a dialogue about gender equality and identity. “Sexy Switched” challenges societal norms by juxtaposing softness with strength and vulnerability with confidence. The collection invites wearers to explore their individuality while making a powerful statement about inclusion and equality. For Mirabelle, “Sexy Switched” is not just a collection—it’s a call to rethink conventions and celebrate diversity.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Find Mirabelle's work at swzstudio.com (external link) 

I am a designer and artist driven by sustainability, creativity, and social impact. To me, creativity is a gift with purpose, and I use it to craft designs that spark conversations, challenge norms, and promote mindful consumption. My journey began with clothing design and has evolved to include large-scale paintings, where I apply the same principles of repurposing materials and minimizing waste to create meaningful, impactful work. As the founder and art director of ‘38’, I’ve organized events like the 38Scavenger Hunt and 38Exhibit, blending artistic innovation with community engagement. These experiences have shaped my ability to manage projects, collaborate with diverse teams, and ensure every detail aligns with my vision for sustainability and creative expression. My mission extends beyond creating art; I aim to inspire others to rethink their approach to design, emphasizing individuality, conscious choices, and the power of collaboration. I believe in using my work to not only make a statement but also create opportunities for other creatives to grow their skills and amplify their voices. Through my designs, I strive to leave a lasting impact, advocating for a more thoughtful and innovative creative industry.

My final piece is a celebration of upcycling, individuality, and sustainability, blending artistic techniques with a deep commitment to mindful creation. Drawing inspiration from innovators like Jaden Smith and the ethos of creative reuse, I transform discarded garments into cohesive, one-of-a-kind pieces. Each design in this collection tells a story through dynamic techniques such as screen printing, graffiti, embroidery, and painting. A standout piece, a denim jacket, exemplifies my approach: hand-sewn patches from a Dick Tracy t-shirt, reflective stitches, and handwritten designs merge comic book aesthetics with contemporary streetwear. Every element of the collection is created with intention, ensuring no material is wasted, from the smallest scrap to the final detail. This piece reflects my belief that fashion can disrupt trends while honoring sustainability, encouraging a reimagining of clothing as a canvas for personal expression and environmental awareness.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Find Oritsemisan's work at thirty8.xyz (external link) 

Pavni Chandani is a designer dedicated to sustainability, cultural storytelling, and craftsmanship. Pursuing a Bachelor of Design in Fashion Design Leadership at Toronto Metropolitan University, she integrates traditional techniques with innovative practices to create thoughtful and impactful designs. Her capstone collection, Rumi, embodies her commitment to slow fashion and sustainability. Rooted in themes of heritage and cultural identity, the collection features intricate handcrafted details and zero-waste design principles, showcasing the beauty of artisanal techniques while addressing modern sustainability challenges. Rumi is a testament to her belief in fashion as a medium for meaningful storytelling and cultural pride. As the founder of Label Pavni Chandani, she extends this philosophy to her brand, focusing on creating timeless pieces that celebrate craftsmanship while reducing fabric waste. The label emphasizes sustainable practices and mindful production, bridging tradition and contemporary design to produce garments that are both purposeful and enduring. Pavni’s work reflects her vision of fashion as a tool for connection, creativity, and positive change.

Rumi, my final collection, is inspired by the 1947 Partition of India, a moment of immense cultural and emotional significance. This collection reflects the stories of migration, resilience, and identity that emerged during this time, exploring the connections between displacement and the preservation of heritage. Through intricate details and layered designs, Rumi pays homage to the traditional craftsmanship and textiles of the subcontinent, symbolizing the cultural fragments carried across borders. Each piece embodies themes of loss, strength, and rebuilding, serving as a narrative of both personal and collective memory. With Rumi, I aim to honor the history of Partition while promoting individuality and cultural pride. This collection uses fashion as a medium to preserve stories and foster connections, bridging the past and present through thoughtful, meaningful design.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus

Find Pavni's work at pavnichandani.com (external link, opens in new window) 

As a designer I like to explore with different styles and aesthetics, however I seem to enjoy making 2 piece sets the most. I started making 2 piece sets when I was in high school and I made my runway pieces in 2024 summer, when I was in a good mindset.. which I think is important. Sewing for me is like a mediative practice, so the designs I creative give good energy and hold emotions that I was feeling during the construction.

My motivation for my outfits came from euphoria feelings, music, and costume inspiration for one of my favorite music artists, Melanie Martinez. She has a doll-like style and I wanted to create more ready to wear versions of her outfits. For a few of my creations I moved into more of a alternative- hippie style by using lace and different kinds fabrics to show my interests more, for example I also have a fascination of hippie style and wanted to integrate that into my work as well. All these outfits hold meaning for me simply by the process of designing them, from drawing to the construction these creations brought me peace of mind and that is what is most important to me during my process.

Photos by @cosplay & @prevalentfocus