Fashion has always served as a powerful medium for political expression. In the early 1900s, suffragettes donned white, as a symbol of purity, unity, and the collective strength in their relentless fight for the right to vote.

The 1980s further underscored fashion’s political potential when British designer Katharine Hamnett boldly confronted Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher with a T-shirt that read “58% Don’t Want Pershing”, directly protesting nuclear weapons.

Notably, iconic figures like Vivienne Westwood have long championed this fusion of style and activism. Westwood once remarked,

“I just use fashion as an excuse to talk about politics. Because I’m a fashion designer, it gives me a voice.”

Her words encapsulate a truth: our clothing choices serve as visible statements of our values and beliefs.

Fast forward to more recent times, and we see the red square pin from the 2012 Québec student protests. What began as a small token of defiance quickly morphed into a ubiquitous emblem of resistance against tuition hikes, worn by thousands on jackets, backpacks, and scarves.

The Hat, A Reminder That Canadian Fashion Has Power

More recently, an unexpected moment in Canadian politics has once again reminded us of fashion’s influential power. Doug Ford’s hat, embroidered with the phrase “Canada is Not for Sale”, originated as a tongue-in-cheek response by two OCAD graduates, Liam Mooney and Emma Cochrane, to U.S. tariffs and economic strong-arming. What began as a small independent Canadian design captured national attention, selling over 45,000 hats as citizens rallied behind its message. This phenomenon isn’t just about a catchy slogan; it’s about reclaiming the narrative and asserting that Canadian-made fashion carries deep cultural and political significance.

So Why Are We Still Shopping Like Canada Is for Sale?

Despite the rich heritage and contemporary relevance of Canadian fashion, our shopping habits often tell a different story. Many Canadians continue to funnel their money into fast fashion from international retailers or big U.S. brands, inadvertently sidelining a vibrant ecosystem of homegrown talent. Supporting local fashion isn’t merely a trend—it’s a commitment to sustaining our cultural identity and strengthening our economy.

Local Fashion is More Than a Trend:

  • Empowering Canadian Designers: Every time you choose a product from a local brand, you’re investing in creative talents that embody Canadian values and innovation.
  • Building a Resilient Economy: Money spent on local fashion circulates within the community, supporting jobs, startups, and independent labels that are passionate about producing unique, locally made designs.
  • Preserving Political and Cultural Narratives: Canadian fashion is steeped in history and activism. By supporting it, we help maintain a platform for voices that challenge the status quo and advocate for change.

Imagine if every purchase you made was a vote for the future you believe in. Instead of contributing to a global fast-fashion cycle, why not invest in Canadian-owned brands that echo your political and cultural values? The next time you’re about to click “checkout” on an international retailer, pause and ask yourself: Are you supporting the narrative you want to see?

Here’s how you can make a difference:

  • Engage and Share: Use social media to highlight your favorite Canadian designers. Share your own stories of how local fashion has influenced your identity using dedicated hashtags.
  • Educate Yourself: Dive deeper into the history of political fashion. Explore timelines, interactive galleries, or documentaries that showcase pivotal moments where style met activism.
  • Support Local: Prioritize purchases from independent brands and designers who not only produce in Canada but also hire local talent. Your support helps shape an industry that is not only economically robust but also culturally significant.

What You Wear is a Vote, So Vote Local

Fashion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a powerful form of expression. Every piece of clothing is a conversation, a statement, and sometimes, a protest. As Canadian fashion continues to evolve and assert its identity on the global stage, your choices play a pivotal role in shaping that narrative. By supporting local talent and independent brands, you aren’t just updating your wardrobe—you’re casting a vote for a future where our cultural, political, and economic identities are celebrated.

Discover the stories behind your style. Explore Toronto Loves Fashion and join a movement that’s as passionate about politics as it is about design. After all, what you wear isn’t just a fashion choice—it’s a declaration of who you are and what you stand for.