This year, Fashion Week Ottawa takes a bold leap into immersive storytelling with a theme that blends fashion, theatre, and symbolic movement. Centered around the idea of “two nights” colliding, the event explores duality—light and shadow, elegance and rebellion, inner battles and public beauty. As day turns to dusk at the historic Billings Estate, models, dancers, and musicians come together to tell a powerful, symbolic story on the runway.
The narrative unfolds with armoured knights battling in a choreographed performance that represents emotional warfare—loss, survival, resistance, and rebirth. This theatrical element sets the tone for a runway that doesn't just show clothes, but communicates emotion, identity, and transformation.
Fashion Week Ottawa 2025 isn't just about garments—it’s about voice, vision, and movement. Every designer brings their own interpretation of the theme through fabric, silhouette, and staging. Some play with structure and armor-like aesthetics, while others express softness, vulnerability, or otherworldly elegance. The transitions between sets are bridged with spoken word, live music, and choreographed dance, creating a living story that spans generations, cultures, and moods.
We are also deeply intentional this year about inclusivity and meaning. The opening remarks and performances acknowledge survivors of domestic and emotional abuse, as well as honoring the land and cultural roots of Ottawa. This grounding adds emotional weight to an already transformative show, reminding us of fashion’s power to uplift, express, and heal.
👗 Featured Designers
House Tataryn – Sculptural minimalism and conceptual couture by Kataryn Tataryn
Class of Eternal Life – Bold expression and dark elegance by Annie Dorval
Dlyt Apparels – Modern African fashion blending tradition and innovation by Olukoya
Jamille S – Romantic, sustainable design using deadstock textiles by Jamille
Mater Meretricis – DIY punk-meets-high fashion by Kym Harvey
Jess Fatal Designs – Freehand crochet wearables and handmade accessories by Jess Fatal
Pretty Dunia – Afro-fusion design celebrating culture, womanhood, and pride
Whispering Willow – (Designer info pending)
Heavenly Creations – Modest fashion with divine identity and striking silhouettes by Jenn Omoike
🎭 Live Performances By:
South Tower Armour Guild – Epic medieval combat demonstrations and immersive runway theatrics
IamEli – Soulful vocals and original music
Jogner Kapela – Dynamic live music performance
DJ Orange Octopus Jim – Curating soundscapes throughout the evening
Jenn X.O – Powerful movement and expressive dance
Diamonds in the Buff – Burlesque performance that blends art, theatre, and allure