Elfassy and Dahan’s attention to detail is their signature, with subtle infusions of leather offering a perfect contrast to their wool or jersey pieces: whether trimming the pockets of a parka, the epaulets of a trench coat or lining the placket of a winter jacket, leather plays a uniquely vital part across all of their designs. Cleverly giving their pieces personality by personifying them with names like Diego, Natalie, Cheyenne or Dylan, Mackage has created an entire culture around their collections, with a cult following that covets their modern aesthetic and sleek, urban vision.

PARAZEO

After years serving as Creative Director of a small bridal boutique in Toronto, Bruce Dang launched his own bridal label, Parazeo – fittingly inspired by the Spanish translation for paradise – in 2009. Still based out of Toronto, Parazeo, which has since grown to include the Parazeo Couture and Wish by Parazeo sub-lines, draws from traditional European craftsmanship to create wedding gowns that offer a couture influence and an assertively high-fashion aesthetic. Projecting an overarching romanticism that permeates every design, Parazeo gowns feature figure-hugging bodices that morph into ball gown-style flared skirts, frothy layers of tulle or cascading trains, with Fall 12’s stand-out Lillian, Lindsey and Lily styles perfectly encapsulating the label’s interpretation of paradise. Attention to detail is Dang’s tour de force – silk rosebuds, crystal detail and intricate pearl beading delicately outline the curves of the body, or add texture to a minimalist skirt. Dang’s Spring 13 collection takes inspiration from the beauty of natural elements, translating flowers, petals, foliage and buds in his quixotic fabrications and feminine construction.

TRIARCHY

A family run business launched in 2009 by lead designer and creative director Adam Taubenfligel and his siblings Ania and Mark, Triarchy is a denimwear label based out of Los Angeles, California. After humble beginnings in Vancouver, Canada, Taubenfigel – one of the rare self-taught designers in this industry – launched his denimwear label around the family’s pre-existing bespoke motorbike company based out of British Columbia, answering the needs of bikers who desired fitted, comfortable moto jeans.