02-09-2026

District Central en mode M.A.D.: Local Fashion Takes Center Stage for a Second Edition

On August 29, District Central became a showcase for Montréal’s creative talent. In collaboration with Festival M.A.D. (Mode, arts et divertissement) and Les Immeubles HS, SDC District Central presented the second edition of District Central en mode M.A.D., a signature event celebrating the creativity and expertise of the territory’s fashion businesses against a striking industrial backdrop.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s edition once again brought together designers, businesses and fashion lovers for an immersive experience celebrating local talent and the vibrant fashion community that defines District Central.

60 Looks Showcasing the Best of District Central

The highlight of the evening was a fashion show held on the loading dock at 433 Chabanel Street West, drawing over 350 guests who came to discover the latest creations from designers based in District Central.

Set against a backdrop inspired by Montréal’s industrial landscape, nearly 60 looks made their way down the runway, showcasing collections from nine local brands. The event highlighted the depth and diversity of District Central’s fashion ecosystem, where creativity, production, innovation and expertise come together.

Once again, the event demonstrated the strength of Montréal’s local fashion scene by shining a spotlight on businesses that contribute every day to the city’s creative identity through their work.

Participating brands:
Maison Marie Saint Pierre, Eliza Faulkner, Nadya Toto, Julei Design, 1er MAI, Trucs d'enfants, AM NOT, Tricot Melbuci and Trolet.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Creative Process

More than just a fashion show, District Central en mode M.A.D. offered an immersive experience that gave guests a behind-the-scenes look at the different stages of garment production.

As part of the event’s set design, Core Fabrics showcased the four key stages of garment making throughout the fashion show: sketching, cutting, sewing and finishing on the mannequin. The presentation gave guests a unique look at the craftsmanship behind each creation and the work that brings Montréal fashion to life.

To wrap up the experience, host Geneviève Borne presented the cape featured in the demonstration.

Thank You to Our Partners

The SDC District Central extends its warmest thanks to its co-presenters, Les Immeubles HS and Festival M.A.D., as well as to all the designers, artisans, partners and participants who contributed to the success of this memorable evening.

A special thank you also goes to Roch le Coq and Ola Ola, who helped make the evening a delicious one.

A Territory That Shapes Montréal’s Fashion Scene

With 630 businesses working in the fashion sector, District Central remains a major hub for fashion design and manufacturing in Montréal.

This unique concentration of expertise makes the territory an important economic and creative force, bringing together designers, manufacturers, production workshops, suppliers and innovative businesses.

The success of this second edition confirms the public’s enthusiasm for this one-of-a-kind event and once again highlights the vitality of District Central’s creative ecosystem—and the importance of supporting fashion that is imagined, designed and made right here.