Vintage Fest 2026 Updates Coming Soon!
Last year's Vintage Fest in partnership with the Uptown Waterloo BIA
SLOW + SUSTAINABLE FASHION
Meet the 2025 Designers
Vanessa Anderson
My name is Vanessa Ariana and I am a fashion designer and model based in Toronto, ON. My inspiration as a designer blossomed from the artistry and confidence of the women in my family— specifically my Grandmother who was a master seamstress, and my Mother who taught me how to crochet. I see fashion as an outlet for self expression, creativity, and empowerment, and through my work I hope to empower others too.
Bobby Raffin
Designer Bobby Raffin uses recycled fabrics to create one-of-a-kind whimsical pieces with a tropical twist.
The heart and philosophy of his brand Three Pieces is that even if things are broken or in pieces you can find a new way to create something beautiful; and with a message to repurpose and reuse.
By using textures and embroidery techniques Bobby transforms neutrals into bold statement pieces inspired by that feeling when you go on vacation.
Claire Upcycled
CLAIRE UPCYCLED is an eco fashion, gender-neutral, streetwear brand. By merging original screen printed designs, scrap, discarded fabrics and sewing onto thoughtfully curated secondhand clothing, CU creates 1 OF 1, wearable ART garments.
Chris Coates
My name is Chris Coates, I am a designer from Kitchener Ontario and owner of the Last Shop on Earth. My work is inspired by post apocalyptic themes, alongside elements of the military seen within my earth tone colour pallet and silhouettes. Adding a touch of elegance to my rugged style with my choice in materials, using a lot of floral prints and Victorian style damask prints creates a vibe unique to the Last Shop.
By using locally sourced and thrifted materials, I strive to create one of a kind and low scale products. Made to give back that sense of uniqueness to everyone who wears my garments.
Kiara Yllescas
Kiara Yllescas’ journey is one characterized by entrepreneurship, sustainability, and a deep passion for Peruvian artistry. In 2020, Kiara founded Archaea Studios, a family-run crochet studio that marries her love for creativity with her commitment to sustainability. Every creation from Archaea Studios embodies a tradition, artistry, and eco-conscious creation. Archaea's main focus is upcycling + reworks and the delicate intricacy of lace crochet.