One of my favorite discoveries at World Master Card Fashion Week this season was Canadian designer Matthew Gallagher. Maison Matthew Gallagher debuted in Fall 2013 and since its inception, sophistication and attention to details have been central to the young brand’s identity. The result? A sexy, feminine and fresh collection for all women. The designer who completed his studies at Istituto Marangoni and Istituto Europeo Di Design in Milan presented an exquisite Spring / Summer 2014 collection in Toronto. I fell in love with every single piece and you’ll see why in the slideshow below.

After the show, I caught up with the Nova Scotia native to discuss his Italian inspired collection. “It’s naturally hot in the south of Italy so the people are very relaxed and they lounge…and they are naturally chic anyways by default, so when it comes to the summer I saw a very glamorous vibe and that’s what I wanted to focus on.” he said.

 

In addition to his love for italian style Gallagher loves mixing fabrics and doesn’t limit his sourcing options. He is not afraid of reaching out to friends and old contacts to bring his visions to life. “The embossed fabric… a friend sourced it for me. She lives in London. She sent me a picture saying that it was amazing, so I told her to send me everything she could get.” he said followed by, “I have a shop producer in Italy that I used when I was in school. I stay in contact with him. He sends me samples and we go back and forth.” 

The Matthew Gallagher collection is made by hand in his Toronto studio and is designed to suit every woman. “… she (his customer) is not of a certain age… I have classic pieces and younger pieces. I’m open to everyone basically.” he quickly answered when I asked him to tell me about his customer.

Maison Matthew Gallagher is not yet actively involved in a philanthropic endeavor but cancer is big in the designer’s immediate family making this cause dear to his heart.

His winter essential for women: a powerful coat in cobalt blue or  a very minimal one in a bright hue .

Stay Conscious & Chic!

 

 

Photo Credits: © Aleyah Solomon for Fashion With A Conscience.Â