By Katia Ostapets
Photography by Stephenson Price
Leesa Butler; The F-list
Leesa Butler.
Tell us about your first blog post. Oct. 4, 2006. It wasn’t a blog, but a web portal of information.
How did your blogger career grow? I had already been exposed to the fashion week and to a lot of major players. There seemed to be a real lack of support in the media for Canadian designers, but I also saw a huge interest from the public for fashion and designers. On my web portal, you could see photos of designers, put a face to the name, see pictures of their designs and find out where they were sold. There’s a huge audience that wants to know more about fashion. Because of my relationship with the fashion week and my background in digital marketing, I was able to be the conduit for consumer tickets.
Who is your fashion icon? I don’t have a favourite, but highly respect artists that are outside the norm: Vivienne Westwood, Betsey Johnson. I also really like Tom Ford.
Describe your style in one word. Eclectic.
What is your favourite store anywhere in the world? Colette in the 1st Arrondissement in Paris.
Who is your favourite Canadian designer? It’s like picking your favourite child. Pink Tartan has a very cool modern woman aesthetic – a soft power woman. There’s a slight bit of edge to it and unexpected detail that’s really fun. Denis Gagnon is a true artiste and always surprises me.
If you were reborn who would you be? Marie Antoinette.
What is the craziest fashion-related thing you’ve ever done? I am doing an auction to celebration the five-year anniversary of The F-List. The items have been donated by designers, retailers, fashionable brands and celebrities. There are about 60 items – from vintage Alexander McQueen to dresses from Pink Tartan, and autographed books by Jeanne Beker and Kelly Cutrone. The proceeds will go to support Dress for Success Toronto. It’s about embracing fashion in this country.
If you had to wear one thing for a whole year what would it be? A really beautiful pair of python Louboutins. I can even run in them!
What are your favourite 10 items in your closet? Pink Tartan jacket, Joe jeans, vintage necklaces, Pucci shoes, Brian Atwood shoes, vintage sequin jacket, Evan Biddell dress, Blade embellished tank, vintage snakeskin clutch, Victoria Beckham jeans.
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