TNT opening party in Hazelton Lanes

May 15, 2011

Text by Justine Woolcott.

Photos by Danielle Preston.

Hundreds of fashion lovers showed up in style at the iconic TNT store’s 20^th anniversary party and launch event at Hazelton Lanes in Yorkville on Thursday night.

A well-known television personality Dan Levy hosted the evening, where over 600 people were in attendance, said TNT PR rep Ashley MacIntyre.

A big draw to the event was celebrity guest and designer Nicole Richie. Richie attended the event to promote her two brands, Winter Kate and House of Harlow. She left crowds guessing as to where she was throughout the evening as she was difficult to spot during her appearance.

Guests were able to mingle and socialize with other designers, such as Kirk Pickersgill, one half of Greta Constantine.

Caitlin Power of Caitlin Power label, Golnaz Ashtianti of Ashtiani and Nikki Wirthensohn of Narces , three finalists from the 2011 TFI New Labels Fashion Design Competition and Show, also showcased their designs to guests at the party.

The massive 18,000 square foot store has a dedicated 4,000 square foot section for menswear. TNT at Hazelton Lanes carries brands such as Herve Leger, Rag and Bone, Current Elliot and several Canadian lines, such as Pink Tartan and Black Pug DMK.

The space downstairs is decorated in a minimalist fashion, with white walls, glass and stainless steel fixtures. Upstairs, where brands such as Jitrois are hosted, is filled with pot lights, leather seating and neutral walls.

DJ Chuck Barrett filled the store with dance beats, while guests sipped on blue cocktails aptly named the TNT Cocktail, created specifically for the event.

There were four bars throughout the space, and guests were invited to enjoy sushi by Blowfish Restaurant and Sake Bar in the shopping centre’s hallway.

TNT partnered with the Toronto Fashion Incubator to raise funds for the organization. TFI is a non-profit organization based in Toronto that helps fashion entrepreneurs learn the necessary skills to thrive in the business.

MacIntyre said owner Arie Assaraf was very happy with the turnout at the event and that he was very excited for the future of the new store.

The Hazelton Lanes store is the third TNT location. The first store opened in 1992 at Eglinton West in Toronto, and the second opened on rue St. Catherine Ouest in Montreal.