By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On Friday, September 27, 2024, a lively group of designer Joseph Tassoni’s supporters boarded a Gem Limousine chartered bus in Burlington, bound for tech hub OneEleven in Toronto, where Tassoni’s Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer 2025 runway show was to take place. As the city skyline appeared on the horizon, excitement buzzed among the passengers, who chatted about their outfits and speculated on what Tassoni’s latest show would reveal.
Known for his dedication to meaningful causes, this year’s event was especially touching as it was dedicated to Tassoni’s grandfather, Nicolas Tassoni. And, like Tassoni’s 2023 show, proceeds are again going towards Tassoni’s continued replenishing of inclusive gown covers for mental health in-patients at Joseph Brant Hospital.
The evening began with a cocktail hour from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., setting the stage for a thoughtful and elegant gathering. Guests mingled over locally-sourced bites and drinks from Burlington and Oakville favourites like Familia Fine Foods and Verace Pizza, while a custom photo booth provided the perfect opportunity for attendees to capture memories. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and camaraderie, as fashionistas and supporters of mental health initiatives came together to champion Tassoni’s causes.
As the clock struck 8:00 p.m., Chris Greenfield, managing director of OneEleven and the evening’s charismatic emcee, took to the stage to formally welcome the audience. Greenfield’s opening remarks set the tone for the night, blending fashion with purpose, while also emphasizing the collaboration between art, technology, and mental health.
At precisely 8:15 p.m., the lights dimmed slightly as the music pulsed through the speakers, and Joseph Tassoni’s highly anticipated 2025 collection was revealed. Featuring over 140 striking pieces, the collection spanned all four seasons — fall, winter, spring, and summer — showcasing Tassoni’s remarkable versatility and creative vision. This collection was one of Tassoni’s largest to date, blending his signature elegance with innovative touches that fused fashion with technology. It embodied Tassoni’s mission to enhance the intersection of inclusivity, style, and sustainability, all while pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion design.
One standout piece that caught the audience’s attention was a luxurious long white coat with hints of gold tinsel, reminiscent of a cozy blend of sherpa and velour. Tassoni, known for his attention to detail and commitment to using ethically sourced materials, shared the story behind this showstopper.
“The coat is made from reversible faux fur sourced from a local mill, which, sadly, closed shortly after production. It features the softest fabric — one side is a plush medium-weight velour finish, while the other has a water-resistant layer, adding versatility. You essentially get two distinct looks in one,” Tassoni explained. This approach not only highlighted Tassoni’s dedication to sustainability but also emphasized his passion for comfort without sacrificing style.
Several notable personalities graced the runway, each lending their unique flair to the event while supporting Tassoni’s mental health initiatives. Among them were Miss Fiercalicious from Canada’s Drag Race, Citytv’s Frankie Flowers, CHCH’s Tim Bolen, actor Nick Bateman, Juno Award-winning singer Sarah Blackwood, CP24’s Jennifer Hsing, and many more notable names. Their presence added an extra layer of excitement to the evening, creating a vibrant synergy between fashion and advocacy.
Tassoni’s connection to mental health is deeply personal, and it was woven into the fabric of the event itself. His focus for this show extended beyond fashion, as he collaborated with Joseph Brant Hospital on a mental health initiative that aims to bring comfort to patients in the hospital’s mental health ward. Tassoni’s passion for inclusivity inspired the choice of inclusive hospital gowns (by the brand FX Made in Canada) for patients who may experience discomfort due to medication or heightened sensitivity. That mentality drives Tassoni’s own creations as well.
“Clothing plays a significant role during difficult times, and I wanted to create garments that not only offer comfort but also serve as a reminder that patients are cared for,” Tassoni shared. This compassionate approach resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the importance of combining fashion with functionality and care.
The evening also featured a silent auction in collaboration with George Brown College’s Fashion Exchange. The auction raised funds to support the ongoing donation of these inclusive hospital gowns, further strengthening the connection between fashion and social impact.
Throughout the event, Greenfield emphasized the role of technology in elevating both fashion and experiences. Originally, the event was slated to take place at Burlington’s Royal Botanical Garden, but overwhelming ticket sales prompted a last-minute move to the larger OneEleven venue in Toronto. This shift underscored the success of the collaboration between Greenfield’s team and Tassoni. OneEleven’s focus on technology-driven solutions was a perfect complement to Tassoni’s forward-thinking approach to fashion.
Greenfield also created and founded TipTap Pay, which specializes in touchless payment technology; during his opening remarks, Greenfield fittingly brought attention to the power of tech in shaping charitable giving. In an unscripted demonstration of generosity, Greenfield spontaneously auctioned off his jacket, sparking a bidding war that ended with one guest pledging an impressive $10,000. Though the jacket remained unclaimed by the end of the night, Greenfield’s gesture illustrated the seamless integration of technology and philanthropy at the event and the jacket is still available for a great cause.
Local businesses played a significant role in the evening’s success, with sponsors like Aldo Shoes, Bell, Backed by Bees, LaRose Bakery, Maverick Distillery, and TD lending their support. This convergence of fashion, technology, and mental health awareness fostered a sense of community among attendees, who shared a collective desire to make a meaningful impact.
One of the evening’s major sponsors, Burlington’s Joe Apps Technology Support, showcased their shared values with Tassoni’s mission. The company’s founder Joseph Apps emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives that fuse technology with creativity.
“Supporting the Joseph Tassoni fashion show was a unique opportunity for us to demonstrate how technology can intersect with creativity to drive positive change,” said Apps. “We witnessed firsthand how collaboration across different industries can push boundaries. Just as Tassoni is redefining fashion, we strive to redefine technology solutions that empower communities.”
When asked about the evolving relationship between fashion and technology, Apps shared his excitement for the future of this intersection. “There’s tremendous potential for further collaboration. From AI-driven trend prediction to augmented reality in fashion shows, technology is reshaping the way designers work and how consumers engage with fashion. We’re excited to continue supporting such groundbreaking ventures.”
In addition to showcasing his innovative outerwear, Tassoni also featured his signature designs and impeccable tailoring, including pieces like exposed zippers, faux fur shawls crafted from sustainable materials, and reversible coats that prioritized functionality and style.
His commitment to eco-friendly practices was evident throughout the collection, with each piece carefully designed to minimize environmental impact. Tassoni explained, “We recycle and upcycle fabrics wherever possible, ensuring each piece is limited in quantity and has a reduced environmental footprint.”
The evening also introduced Tassoni’s line of men’s underwear and swimwear, which were designed with comfort and durability in mind. Inspired by his work with performers and acrobats who travel the globe, Tassoni sought to create pieces that could withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle while maintaining a sense of comfort, luxury, and style.
“I wanted to design garments that not only offer durability but also make people feel good wearing them, whether they’re on stage or relaxing by the pool,” Tassoni said.
As the night drew to a close, guests made their way to the after-party at OneEleven’s offices, where they were treated to finger foods, an open bar, and music from a live DJ. Tassoni expressed his gratitude to the attendees, sponsors, and collaborators who helped make the evening a resounding success. “Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and helped bring this show to life. Together, we’re showing the world what ‘Made in Canada’ truly stands for,” Tassoni concluded.
For those eager to shop Tassoni’s 2025 collection, it is now available for purchase, with custom-made appointments also offered for those seeking a more personalized experience. To explore the collection or schedule a consultation, visit josephtassoni.com.
As for what’s next? Mark your calendars for 2025 — Tassoni has promised even more exciting collaborations, innovative designs, and fashion-forward initiatives that continue to blend creativity with social impact.
