The Arts Council Haliburton Highlands has been the talk of the town for the past week, with the organization announcing the return of one of the community’s most unique annual traditions.
‘Fashion Fallies’ will make its “triumphant return” next spring, the arts council’s Chris Lynd confirmed last Thursday (Oct. 8). The fashion show challenges the County’s most creative minds to design a piece of wearable art that themselves, or models, don on the runway in what Lynd described as one of the most high-energy events she’s been a part of. The show was last held in 2019.
“COVID-19 was probably the thing that stopped it, but the community has always been there. There have always been people, makers and creators who have loved that event. It never really leaves your mind,” Lynd said.
A revival was first discussed late last spring and quickly gathered pace, Lynd said. Traditionally, ‘Fashion Fallies’ was one of the premier fundraisers for arts programming in Haliburton County. Lynd said that will be a focus again, but more than that, it’s about providing a platform for creators to showcase their talents.
The show will bring together both amateur and established designers, makers, artists, engineers, storytellers and more, offering an “exciting glimpse” into the world of wearable art.
“It’s always been more than just a fashion show – it’s a vibrant celebration of our creative community,” Lynd said. “There are so many people out there who like a challenge, and this is exactly that, but it’s also an opportunity for collaboration, to work with different materials, really put themselves out there.
“We really want to see painters working with woodworkers, or wire sculptors, really mixing people from different mediums and worlds together. We have some really fun ideas about including musicians, dancers and literary people and make them a central part of the show,” she added.
A location and firm date have yet to be determined, though Lynd said it will be held in May 2027. Organizers are looking for a larger venue for the show, which was traditionally held at the Haliburton School of Art + Design.
Lynd said the arts council is planning a series of workshops for the winter, where participants can get a head start on their design. She’s hopeful it will serve as a spark, rekindling a long-held spirit of collaboration within this specific arts community.
Asked about some of the most unique pieces of wearable art she’s seen displayed at previous shows, Lynd said a few came to mind.
“I have seen a popcorn dress that could just knock your socks off. I’ve seen a dress made from toilet paper that goes on for miles, and another made from various tree parts that was supposed to promote nature – so anything and everything can go into this,” she said.
There will be other forms of entertainment and interactive pop-ups at the event, with VIP experiences available and an after-party celebration planned, Lynd said.
Money raised will support arts council programs such as its ‘art in public spaces’ and ‘artists in the schools and community’ initiatives. Funds will also be directed to community events, such as Bookapalooza.
Lynd said tickets will go on sale in the new year, while designers and artisans interested in participating are asked to contact fashionfallieshaliburton@gmail. com.
“Tickets sell out so fast, the audience enjoys this just as much as the participants do,” Lynd said.
