Fashion students showcase their collections at INLAND
Fashion students at The Creative School stepped into the limelight to showcase their collections at the INLAND spring popup. Taking place at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, INLAND is a shopping community celebrating Canadian designers who prioritize sustainability, diversity, and empowerment.
"We are thrilled to partner with INLAND, for the second year, to support upcoming local designers, advocate for diverse representation, and establish new pathways for sustainable and inclusive fashion," says Joseph Medaglia, Chair, School of Fashion, The Creative School Toronto Metropolitan University. "This is not only an excellent opportunity for our fashion students to network and gain exposure, but also for Toronto to witness the thoughtful creativity, drive, and values that underpin fashion education at TMU."
Fashion x INLAND Partnership Poster
Jewellery collection by Delrosa, a brand by recent TMU Fashion graduate Delfina Russo
This season's showcase featured the work of six TMU graduate and undergraduate students and two recent graduates, including Portia J. Alight (external link) , Camilla Leonelli Calzado (external link) , Pavni Chandani (external link) , Audrey Chen (external link) , Mina Keykhaei (external link) , Eva Licata (external link) , Curtis Matysek (external link) , and Delfina Russo (external link) . Each creator brought a unique perspective and creative vision to the forefront, highlighting the talent and artistry fostered at The Creative School.
From left to right: Portia J. Alight, Camilla Leonelli Calzado, Pavni Chandani, Audrey Chen, Delfina Russo, Mina Keykhaei, Eva Licata, and Curtis Matysek pose in front of their designs
Second-year Fashion student Portia J. Alight captivated audiences with her luxury silk scarf collections, Sweet and Daring and Peaceful Presents, that draw inspiration from her experience as a professional ballet dancer.
“The elegance of the art form translated to loving the finesses, elegance, and femininity of silk scarves,” she said. She also explains that her creations celebrate individual expression and pay tribute to her East Asian background.
Portia J. Alight posing in front of her collections, Sweet and Daring and Peaceful Presents
Recent graduate Pavni Chandani honours her Sindhi heritage by combining contemporary aesthetics with traditional hand embroidery and beaded garments in her collection Rumi 2024. She shares the inspiration behind her creative process, featuring themes of identity and culture.
"My final collection was inspired by Homi K. Bhabha's third space theory, which talks about the blend of two cultures creating a unique identity,” she said. “My work is a reflection of my immigrant story and the stories of those around me."
Rumi 2024 by Pavni Chandani
As they continue pushing boundaries and challenging conventions, these innovative designers are en route to making a lasting impact in the fashion world.
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.