Linda Evangelista Steals the Show: Unforgettable Moments from Canadian Fashion's Big Night!

Last night, the Canadian fashion scene lit up Toronto's historic Fairmont Royal York Hotel! The 11th annual Canadian Art & Fashion Awards (CAFAs) were held, hosted by the fabulous drag sensation Brooke Lynn Hytes. The event was a celebration of innovation, honoring big names like supermodel Linda Evangelista, who received the prestigious Vanguard Award from her designer friend, Erdem Moralıoğlu.

Guests were encouraged to showcase incredible local Canadian brands on the red carpet. Among the stylish attendees were models like Heather Diamond Strongarm, fresh from the Dolce & Gabbana spring show, Lauren Chan, and Ashley Callingbull. Once the ceremony got going, the awards rolled out for categories like Hair and Makeup Artist of the Year, Digital Creator of the Year, and both Menswear and Womenswear Designer of the Year—congratulations to Beaufille and Spencer Badu for snagging those honors! Model of the Year went to Mathieu Simoneau, while the influential Ben Barry, Dean of Fashion at Parsons School of Design, rightfully earned the Changemaker Award for his work in promoting inclusivity and diversity in fashion education.

Hot off the presses: CAFAs is launching a game-changer award in 2025! The new Indigenous Fashion Award will spotlight an innovative Indigenous designer or artist making waves within Canada.

But let's be honest, all eyes were on Linda Evangelista inside the gala. This Canadian icon, donning an Erdem skirt suit, accepted her award with grace and reminisced about her humble beginnings in St. Catharines. "For me, fashion has always been a place where dreams, aspirations, and inspirations flourish," she exclaimed, emphasizing the endless possibilities of self-expression through fashion. What a night celebrating the best in the biz!