Fashion is bought. Style is what’s made with it. Personal style choices and the act of choosing how to present ourselves is that of taking a mutable and intangible thing and visualizing it, making it palpable.
Winnipeg’s large and diverse African diaspora community includes fashion designers, makeup artists and models, such as designer Ali Opemipo for Aplus African Fashion.
Vintage fashion is undergoing a revival – one that benefits both the closet and the environment.
Me and my friends love to match, but they were all wearing black tonight … I was like, ‘I’m feeling a bit more hilarious than that.'
Winnipeg boudoir photographer Teri Hofford and local business owner JT believe that a greater variance of images in media would lead to a positive shift in perceptions of what women actually look like. They promote this concept through their work.
I think I look like a marshmallow
Both my grandmothers were into textiles, and that was a huge influence on me. I like to buy Canadian and American products, and I love the ’80s.
I’m not really good at fashion. I find a piece that I like and try to match the colours.
It can be difficult to know how to dress for transitional weather, but a few stylish locals have ideas for surviving nature’s mood swings.
“My fashion is unique … and comfortable”
As fashion becomes more accessible, indie designers and amateur models have found a place on the Winnipeg scene.
“Be over, be under, be true, but never give up. Fashion reflects personality."
“I try to be unique. I try to be unexpected. Something that hasn’t been seen.”
“When I look good, I feel confident, and I’m ready for exams.”
“My fashion … it’s all thrift store stuff.”
In 2010, Eric Olek was inspired to get involved with Winnipeg’s hip-hop and nightlife communities. The creation of his clothing line, Friday Knights Clothing, allowed him to do this.
Joseph Visser, the photographer behind Winnipeg-based creative platform From Here & Away, wants to make it easier for people to wear their values on their sleeves.
“I didn’t think too much about my outfit today … just put it on.”
Alex Kohut started his career in vintage clothing as a thrifting wunderkind. The 23-year-old, who runs The Vintage Saint shop on Albert Street, got into the game at a young age.
“I like to wear what people tell me not to wear.”
