This year we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation. In recent years, our country has seen the emergence of a grassroots movement towards buying more locally-made products. High outsourcing costs, the state of the economy, and strength of the dollar have all had an impact on the fashion industry in Canada. espy is proud to showcase Canadian designers and in honor of #Canada150 we would like to feature the Canadian brands we carry, their stories and why we buy Canadian. This week we focus on the city of Montreal.

 

Iris Setlakwe

Iris Setlakwe

Iris Setlakwe began with one objective in mind: create a women’s clothing line that fits perfectly in all the right places, uses nothing but superior-quality textiles, while supporting the local workforce. Established in Montreal in 2001, that focus remains evident today. Sophie Trudeau can attest to that. 90% of Iris Setlakwe’s clothing is made in Montreal. Unique pieces designed and produced each season follow a very thorough confection process. Fabrics are all carefully chosen and imported from Europe with nothing left to chance. From Canada to the United States, Iris Setlakwe’s style stands out by the exceptional fit of her clothes, and by wise detailing that always adds a feminine touch.

 

wellDunn

Dominique Dunn

Designed and carefully handcrafted in Montreal, wellDunn jewelry got its start in 2011. Their products are made of high-quality materials. These include: 24 Carat gold, sterling silver, stainless steel and semi-precious stones. Inspired by modern bohemian lifestyle, wellDunn brings out the spirit of your inner gypsy. wellDunn creations allow you to dare just enough, proposing delicate casual jewelry and edgy statement pieces. Founder/Designer Dominique Dunn believes in the future of small fashion labels and indie retail stores relies on going off the beaten path and offering a customized service to clients. At espy, we couldn’t agree more.

 

Annie 50

Amélie Gingras-Rioux and Annie Chagnon

In 2005, Amélie Gingras-Rioux and Annie Chagnon founded Annie 50, a ready-to-wear fashion label for women that aims to enhance the feminine allure of all who wear it. The company has successfully made its mark thanks to its unique style. The result is they have carved out an important place in Quebec’s fashion industry. A fusion of vintage fashion with contemporary trends, Annie 50 designs stand out for their originality and timelessness. Known best for their dresses, Annie 50 attributes this to their success. The label offers complete collections season after season.

At espy, we believe in Canadian fashion. We believe in Canadian design. We believe in Canadian manufacturing. We believe in amazing service. We believe in affordable style. We believe in talented designers who wave the maple leaf proudly. These are just a few of the brands making waves in Canadian fashion. We trust you’ll come in and learn about the many others. Stay tuned all summer for highlights of our favourite Canadian designers.