Halifax fashion week kicks off its first runway show

Designers and models come together to showcase their talents at Mills Halifax Fashion Week

A construction site in Halifax’s north end is swapping steel-toed boots for stilettos Wednesday night as Mills Halifax Fashion Week kicks off its first runway show.

The unconventional venue, wedged between new developments still under construction, has been reworked into a temporary stage for fashion from around the world.

“We’re taking it to the next level in terms of runway productions in our region and providing a platform for more designers and more brands,” said founder and creative director Solitha Shortte.

This year’s theme is sustainability. Fourteen designers will debut their collections, supported by more than 200 models. Each night will highlight a different fashion category, with the opening night dedicated to ready-to-wear styles meant to go straight from the catwalk to consumers’ closets.

Amanda Simpson, the residential property manager for the site, said her team wanted to create a space that reflects Halifax’s evolving neighbourhoods.

“It’s a unique place in the north end that showcases some of the beautiful spaces we have in Halifax,” she said.

For 12-year-old Halifax designer and model Siena Perusseshortte, it’s a first-time opportunity to share her 12-piece collection, featuring designs for every season.

“All of the other designers have such beautiful clothes and I’m so excited to show them off for other people to see,” she said.

France’s Alice See is also making her Halifax debut, unveiling a sustainable collection two years in the making in honour of her late mother who she has named her brand after.

“My whole life has been about fashion, style and being bold and not being afraid,” she said. “I want people to see during the show, that yes, people dare.”

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