Edmonton isn’t just a city of festivals; it’s also a hub for fashion and contemporary design. Talented designers here are forging their own unique styles, drawing inspiration from the city’s rich cultural diversity. In this article on edmontonka.com, we’ll introduce you to some of the most exciting and innovative designers making their mark on modern Edmonton.
Mallory Urbanovich
Mallory Urbanovich is a young Edmonton-based fashion designer known for her ethically-minded clothing with a utilitarian aesthetic. In 2017, she was recognised as one of the country’s top designers.
Urbanovich originally studied film at the University of Alberta, but spent her spare time sewing clothes for herself. Her passion for fashion became more serious after she took part in a local fashion show. A second show in Calgary earned her an award and the opportunity to present her first collection in Toronto.
In 2012, she launched her own clothing line, which included a variety of jumpers, accessories, and hand-painted items. From 2012 onwards, she also became a regular fixture at Toronto’s World MasterCard Fashion Week. In 2015, she was nominated for the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards in the young designers category.
In 2016, Urbanovich’s collection was hailed as one of the best for bringing a vintage style with modern cuts to the runway. The collection’s colour palette was inspired by the northern winter and 1980s industrialism.
Urbanovich also works with the charitable event “Fashion with Compassion”. As a designer, she is deeply concerned with animal rights, choosing angora wool from Nova Scotia, where rabbits are raised ethically. For her campaign shoots, she always selects models with unconventional looks and creates practical, comfortable clothing, all while emphasising her feminist ideals.
Urbanovich often draws on Canada’s cultural heritage, blending tradition with contemporary trends. Her work is a form of visual dialogue with her surroundings. Her clothing is predominantly made up of timeless staples that remain relevant beyond seasonal trends. She is an active supporter of other young creatives and participates in various mentoring programmes.
Her designs range from comfortable knitwear to luxurious silk dresses. They are all easy to care for and can be machine-washed without worry. Urbanovich creates pieces that are both practical and elegant. She doesn’t have her own boutique yet, but all her pieces can be purchased at stores like “Simons”, “Pont Neuf Boutique” and “Garmentory”.
Studio Ward
“Studio Ward” is the design studio of Zachary Ward, who has been working in the industry since 2009. He works directly with clients to create unique, bespoke garments. You can commission everything from everyday pieces to evening wear. Collaboration is key for Zachary Ward; he loves working with clients and partners to create garments that truly reflect their individuality. You’ll be involved in the design process every step of the way. These aren’t just clothes; they’re genuine works of art.
The studio also offers several collections of ready-to-wear clothing. These pieces perfectly combine modern trends with timeless styles, featuring everything from luxurious fabrics to bold prints and innovative cuts.
Zachary Ward founded his studio to explore different materials and techniques. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta and a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Calgary.
Zachary Ward believes that clothing can transform not only a person’s appearance but also their inner world. His design approach balances art with craft, technical skill with creativity, and precise construction with freedom of expression.
If you’re interested in commissioning a piece from “Studio Ward”, you can submit a request on the studio’s official website, and they will get in touch with you. You can also book a consultation with Ward himself. He can help you create a versatile wardrobe and boost your self-confidence. It’s a unique opportunity not to be missed.
JShine Designs
“JShine Designs” is the studio of a young woman from Edmonton who left her professional career to dedicate herself entirely to art. Her designs are influenced by her Cree heritage, life experiences, and the city’s atmosphere.
She blends both traditional and contemporary beading styles, and actively incorporates elements of local cuisine and hide tanning art into her designs. She primarily creates accessories. She says that beading has awakened her spirit, allowing her to express herself and create beautiful jewellery for everyday wear.
The designer holds two business administration degrees and a Bachelor of Arts degree. She has also completed additional courses in Indigenous Peoples and Women’s Gender Studies. She learns a great deal from Cree Elders, as it’s very important for her to absorb knowledge and experience from her own people.
Her jewellery was part of Lululemon’s Indigenous campaign. She also regularly holds hide tanning classes, encouraging her community to revive these traditional practices. She lives to learn and to teach, and loves working within her community and planting seeds wherever she can.
Accessories from “JShine Designs” are messages that weave together respect for ancestors and love for her culture. Each piece shows meticulous attention to detail and a sincere desire to share her vision of the world. You can view all her pieces and place an order on the studio’s Instagram account.
Kathleen Toodoruk
Kathleen Toodoruk is another fascinating Edmonton designer. She creates clothing from exclusive fabrics that move with your body, transforming you into a walking work of art. For example, her collection “5 Cut Core Couture/Ready-to-wear” is designed to give your wardrobe a lasting glow, featuring five pieces that accentuate the figure. “Avenue Edmonton’s Best Dressed 2020” recognised Toodoruk as a style icon on the city’s fashion scene.
Kathleen creates truly beautiful and feminine clothing, but her main goal is to create pieces that highlight individuality. Clients can take part in the process. She also aims to create “haute couture” that is accessible to everyone.
Kathleen grew up in the Ukrainian diaspora, and before her career in design, she was a dancer. She performed and toured extensively in both Canada and Ukraine, which has had a strong influence on her style. She often uses traditional motifs and floral ornaments, reinterpreted in a modern form.
Her designs focus on longevity, viewing clothing as an investment. Natural fabrics and a well-thought-out, timeless fit allow her to achieve this principle.
Kathleen Toodoruk’s clothing is a combination of Ukrainian inspiration, responsible production, and a personalised approach. Her designs are for those who are not afraid to be themselves and want to look elegant.
Ultimately, Edmonton’s designers are shaping a unique fashion scene that blends the practicality of life in a northern city with ethical production and the philosophy of Indigenous peoples. From Urbanovich’s utilitarian garments to Toodoruk’s feminine dresses, you can find something to suit any need by turning to local designers. Edmonton fashion is a voice for and of those who aren’t afraid to be themselves.