#stmSnippet: Top 6 TOMSS16

Over on STM we have rounded up our favourite collections from the TOM*, (Toronto Men's Fashion Week) spring/summer 2016 runway presentations. From sexy formalwear to cutting edge streetwear, the week was full of looks for just about every man. Find highlights from our picks of the top 6 shows by clicking here.

Find more on STM by clicking here.

Photos: Shayne Gray

#stmSnippet: Q&A with designer Christopher Bates

Sean Connery’s James Bond is Christopher Bates’ style icon and it definitely shows in the designer’s menswear collection. The former model turned fashion designer is now in his seventh year of business and will be showing at TOMFW, Toronto Men’s Fashion Week on Friday February 27^th. When he is not designing, the former Vancouver boy enjoys travel, cooking and playing competitive soccer.

In the final week leading up to TOMFW Christopher made time to take part in the following #stmINTERVIEWED Q&A which includes pictures of some of his favourite runway looks, behind the scenes happenings and even a shot of Christopher himself from his modelling days. Read on to learn more about his design inspiration, why he now runs his production out of Italy and the most valuable piece of advice he ever received as a designer.

Photo: Kareen Mallon of Electrafire Studio

Read the full #stmINTERVIEWED Q&A with designer Christopher Bates on STM here.

Walk the Walk: TOM*FW Jacket Roundup

Grab your jackets gentlemen! Last week at the newly launched TOMFW in Toronto, a group of talented menswear designers showcased their lines for SS15. Among the mix were some incredible blazers and jackets. In no particular order, here are my must have jackets for SS15.

First up are three tailored blazers/suit jackets for all you party goers. The perfect blazer is simply a must when stepping out to attend one of Toronto's many A-list parties. 

This broad shouldered white blazer from Worth by David C. Wigley has a single button closure and thoughtfully placed graphic. 

 photo: Arthur Von Tyrpa

Paulo Succar presented this incredibly tailored suit ensemble in a tasteful statement making black and white print. Personally, I would let this jacket do all the talking and pair it with solid pants, shirt and tie.

 photo: Che Rosales

OK, I admit I have a thing for black and white... and bold prints... which might be why I also fell for this sexy graphic blazer from HD HOME. The fact that the fabric has just the slightest sheen is icing on the cake. 

photo: Che Rosales

Now life is not all about parties, sometimes you just need a good jacket to keep you warm in the cool Canadian Spring season. From bold colours and florals to yes, even more black and white prints, these four jackets have it all.

Looking for something a little more sporty on a casual day? This easy to wear jacket from Noel Crisostomo, has just the right combination of colour blocking and will work for any age.

 photo: Jonathan Lapada

In need of some bold flower power? From fuchsia shorts to classic denim, this  Worth by David C. Wigley bomber will go with just about anything you want to pair it with below the waist.

photo: Constantine Digovets

Feeling a little more bad boy meets confidence? Then check out these final two jackets to meet your needs.

OK, let's just skip over the fact that I chose yet another bold black and white graphic and talk about the bad boy feel oozing from this racer jacket from Sons of Odin. The zipper detail is done just right and breaks up the floral print perfectly.

 photo: Constantine Digovets

Last but not least is this gem from the incredible Christopher Bates. Pretty much every Canadian loves a good solid black outerwear piece and Bates delivers a sure fire garment ready to fly off the racks.

photo: Jonathan Lapada

Congratulations to all of the designers who were part of Toronto's first ever mens fashion week. Make sure to visit each of the designer's pages to learn more about them and to see their past and present collections.  To learn more about TOMFW and the TOM* Magazine, click here.

Dots[Connection]: The Surface of Toronto Fashion Week Part 3

Yesterday 2 illustrators went to 3 shows to do some live runway sketches. The menswear illustrations by Ben Liu are very addictive and Benjamin Edward's style always makes me think the illustration is actually moving.

Please visit Draw A Dot. to see more from this project!

Christopher Bates

Courtesy of Ben Liu

Klaxon Howl

Courtesy of Ben Liu

Maison Matthew Gallagher

Courtesy of Benjamin Edward