Future-FORWARD

How four Canadian designers are forging ahead to create their own paths in the ever-changing industry.

LESS IS MORE

Although Vancouver-based lifestyle brand Obakki’s summer relaunch had already been in the works months before the pandemic hit, founder Treana Peake agreed that it came at the perfect time. Instead of seasonal launches, the label is now collaborating with artisans to produce more curated, narrative-driven collections that can be traced from concept to completion. “It gives us more breathing room and allows us to just focus on building partnerships,” she says.

SURPRISE DELIVERY

When Toronto native Aurora James founded her New York City-based luxury-accessories label, Brother Vellies, in 2013, she sought to preserve traditional African design practices and techniques while creating sustainable work for artisans around the world. Something Special, a monthly subscription program, continues to share these crafts by bringing a new ethically made product to your doorstep each month—no waiting necessary.

IN THIS TOGETHER

Transparency has always been part of Mary Young’s eponymous lingerie and loungewear label. Now, the designer is committed to engaging with the brand’s community even more— from a safe distance, of course. “We want to make sure that they know we’re still there to support them and to hold their hand through the next chapter,” she says. That includes making online customer support easier to access, communicating production timelines and holding virtual events.

REDEFINING LUXURY

According to designer Stephanie Ibbitson, it’s all about doing more with a lot less. The new collection from her handbag and accessories label, Sonya Lee, is the epitome of this outlook: stripped-down styles that still represent her strong, feminine aesthetic but are made sans extra hardware and pockets. The lower-priced handbags were created for customers who have a tighter budget but want a high-quality, locally made product. “People still want to feel special,” says Ibbitson.