After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!
Stacey Martin
Originally a performing artist, Stacey Martin is the designer and founder of Stacey Martin Lifestyle Inc. Rebranded with the mission to be eco-friendly, Martin hires local companies and aims to support women and people of colour in leadership.
Photo: Stacey Martin Lifestyle via Facebook
Frank Sukhoo
The owner and designer behind Sukhoo Sukhoo Khooture in the ByWard Market, Frank Sukhoo has been a fixture in Ottawa’s fashion scene for almost 15 years. His creations are a favourite with the gala crowd and diplomatic community. Sukhoo clients list includes cellist Amanda Forsyth and former Governor Generals Michaëlle Jean and David Johnston, among others.
Photo: © Richard Tardif
Herieth Paul
The Tanzanian born model, Herieth Paul, moved to Ottawa at the age of 14. She was discovered by Angie’s Models and has been featured in Vogue, Elle and Tom Ford advertisements. The supermodel now calls the world home, travelling wherever her job takes her.
Photo: via Herieth Paul Instagram
Farah Studio
Farah Studio is a custom design studio that also offers off-the-rack pieces that women can invest in. Owner Farah Asnaashari has been dressing Ottawa women since 1997. She learned the skills of dressmaking at a young age and opened her first atelier in Rome before moving to the capital.
Photo: via Facebook
Sid Cratzbarg
Ottawa based fragrance stylist, A.K.A. the Aristocrat of Scent, and fashion writer, Sid Cratzbarg is known for his knowledge on all things style. The annual Get Sidified Fashion Fundraiser is a must-attend fashion event in Ottawa, with all proceeds going to Crohn's and Colitis Canada.
Photo: © Richard Tardif
Richard Robinson
Richard Robinson new from a young age that he wanted to work in fashion. As the man behind Ottawa’s only haute couture fashion design school, Robinson is a leading figure in the Canadian fashion landscape. Richard Robinson’s Fashion Design Academy values equity and diversity and gives students the skills to work around the world.
Photo: via RichardRobinson.com
Rebecca Rowe
Ottawa fashion designer and blogger Rebecca Rowe hopes to help women feel confident in their bodies through developing their sense of style. With the belief that women can wear whatever they want no matter their body type, she inspires others to discover their fashion identity.
Madeleine Cormier
Owner of the ByWard Market boutique Chapeaux de Madeleine, Madeleine Cormier is world-class milliner who creates unique pieces that are true works of art. A hand-crafted hat by Cormier will help you express your style.
Photo: Madeleine Cormier, Facebook
Justina McCaffrey
A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in L.A., Justina Mccaffrey/Antonia is a well respected fashion designers in the wedding and evening dress industry. Her dresses have graced the covers of top magazines and newspapers, and have been worn by countless celebrities. Her Ready-To-Wear collections have been carried by Neiman Marcus, Kleinfeld Bridal and Novarese in Japan.
Photo: Courtesy Justina McCafferey
Erica Wark
Ottawa native Erica Wark is a nationally recognized celebrity stylist, television personality, and fashion expert. With her fun, laid-back personality, Wark regularly dishes out fashion advice on well-known television shows, including CTV Ottawa, Etalk and The Marilyn Denis Show, and she has a huge social media following.
Photo: via ericaonfashion.com