The Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards (CAFA), often hailed as “Canada’s most fashionable night,” has announced its official nominees for 2024. The prestigious event, launched in 2013, celebrates outstanding achievement and emerging talent in the Canadian fashion industry.
CAFA brings together top artists, influencers, and business leaders from across Canada and around the world. The awards have previously honoured notable figures such as Imran Amed, Aurora James, Kim Cattrall, and Iris Apfel, among others.
Toronto native Brooke Lynn Hytes, a renowned drag artist and television personality, will return as host for this year’s gala. CAFA says that Hytes’ captivating performance at last year’s event left a lasting impression, prompting CAFA to invite her back for another evening of celebration.
The red-carpet gala is scheduled for Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the Fairmont Royal York in downtown Toronto. Those interested can now purchase tickets to the gala and after-party through the CAFAwards.ca website.
CAFA’s nomination process is largely self-nominating, with a distinguished committee of industry experts reviewing and voting on final nominees based on specific criteria. Special honourees are bestowed separately from the main categories.
Vicky Milner, CAFA Co-Founder and President, said, “We continue to be amazed by the caliber of talent we have here in Canada. We are grateful for the opportunity to spotlight these noteworthy people and brands and bring Canadian arts and fashion to the global stage.”
The event is made possible through generous sponsorships, with NARS Cosmetics returning as the presenting sponsor. Other returning sponsors include Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Disruptive Edge, Fairmont Royal York, Palettera, The Kit, and Toronto Star. New sponsors for 2024 include Amazon, Dyson, Harry Rosen, Optimum Retailing, and LaSalle College Montréal.
This year’s nominees span various categories, showcasing the diversity and talent within Canadian fashion. The Womenswear Designer of the Year Award nominees include A Bronze Age, Beaufille, Frascara, RVNG Couture, and SHAN. For the Menswear Designer of the Year Award, nominees are By David Kollar, Raised by Wolves, Section 35, and Spencer Badu.
Emerging talents are also recognized, with categories for both fashion and accessories design. The Fashion Design Student Award highlights promising graduates from Canadian fashion programs, ensuring a spotlight on the next generation of designers.
The CAFA 2024 also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and social impact in fashion. The Sustainability Award will honour a Canadian designer, brand, or individual taking action to inspire change towards a more sustainable future in the fashion industry.
