I arrived at Arcadia Earth just as twilight softened the Toronto skyline, a shift in light that felt almost ritualistic, as though the city itself were preparing to witness something extraordinary. The venue at Arcadia Earth had been transformed: walls shimmered with digital projections of forests, oceans, and constellations; soft hums of ambient music and distant murmurs of guests mingled; each corridor glowed with immersive art installations echoing climate stories and sustainable futures. It was like stepping into a dream that already knew you were present.

Backstage, the energy was electric. Redken’s stylists greeted me first, hands deft and sure, turning strands of hair into sculpted waves and sleek silhouettes under their expert touch. I felt the cool tingle of product as they worked, a scent of freshness, of clean lines being drawn in real time. Then makeup: subtle, luminous, almost dewy, skin that whispered its beauty rather than shouted it. Across the room, I watched models slip into gowns and tailored pieces alongside me. The rustle of fabric, the click of heels, the soft gasps of wonder as one model caught her reflection, all of it made me feel intimately part of this unfolding tapestry.

Joseph Tassoni‘s designs felt like garments of royalty, reimagined. Each piece wasn’t just clothing, it was a proclamation. The fabric draped like water, held structure where needed, caught light, moved with intention. Corsets that felt like sculptural armor, gowns that seemed woven with stardust, coats that draped like a herald’s cloak in motion. Tassoni has always walked that line between dramatic and wearable, between statement and subtlety, but tonight, in that immersive setting, every stitch, seam, and silhouette felt elevated to mythic proportions.

And this night held an even more personal meaning for me. As FAJO proudly took part as Tassoni’s Official Media Partner, I also had the rare honour of stepping onto the runway myself. To wear one of Joseph’s creations, to feel the fabric move with me under the lights, and to walk among models embodying his vision was unforgettable. It was surreal in the best way, a reminder that fashion is not only about observing beauty but living it.

To speak highly of Joseph is almost redundant, but I will. His vision is fierce, fearless, and deeply rooted in heart. He doesn’t merely design clothes; he weaves narratives: of sustainability, of technology, of identity. The show’s theme The Intersection of Style & Tech was not just a title but a promise, and he delivered it in spades. His commitment to Canadian craftsmanship, his daring in merging AI, robotics and immersive projection mapping: all showed a designer with both bold ambition and a grounded soul.

The sponsors deserve luminous praise too. Buckland’s VIP Lounge, Rina DiRisio’s red carpet presence with celebrity photography by George Pimentel, and Redken 5th Avenue NYC in the gift bags were not mere names but collaborators in the creation of atmosphere. Aldo provided footwear, Swarovski lent subtle diamond touches, Danyliw & Mann presented welcome beverages, TPH handled printing, FAJO served as the official media partner, and many local culinary and beverage partners contributed tastings to the evening’s sensory palette. It formidably felt like a community pulling together to support Joseph’s dream.

When the runway unfolded, it felt like gravity itself paused to watch. The models moved through light and shadow, weaving through immersive sets that shifted behind them, one moment a forest, then a deep blue sea, then constellations raining stars across the walls. The collection was bold: linen suits for hot climates, utility-inspired gowns for urban nights, outerwear that whispered of glaciers and mountains. The garments spoke of place, of purpose, of possibility.

“For me, the highlight was witnessing how the guests experienced the show,” Joseph told me. “From the moment they arrived at the Joseph Tassoni Arcadia Earth runway, the reception instantly set the tone—fabulous cocktails, exceptional hors d’oeuvres, a stunning space, and music that drew everyone in. Guests were chatting, laughing, and immersing themselves in the energy of the evening, and then stepping into the room where the fashion show was about to begin—the atmosphere was absolutely electrifying.

“As the show unfolded, I could see their reactions to the designs, the immersive environment, and the message we were sharing with the community. Watching them connect with the collection, embrace the mission, and feel the fusion of fashion and technology was magical. It was incredible to see how guests connected with my brand, and knowing they were experiencing that excitement and inspiration in real time made it an unforgettable moment for me as a designer.”

He added that he felt a whirlwind of excitement, pride, awe, and gratitude all at once. “Excitement for sharing something completely new with the audience, pride in my team’s dedication and artistry, awe at how the designs brought life to the runway, and deep gratitude for the support that made this groundbreaking show possible,” he said. “I feel inspired, honoured, and motivated to be a leader and the first in Canada to create and deliver a runway show of this caliber that merges fashion and technology—a concept I developed and brought to life for our guests, and something I am incredibly proud of. It’s electrifying to push boundaries, redefine what a runway experience can be, and inspire others to see that technology and fashion can coexist beautifully. This show illustrates the power of entrepreneurship, creativity, dedication, perseverance, community, and like-minded partners coming together to deliver an exceptional fashion-meets-technology runway experience. It has now set a new standard in the industry.”

After Tassoni’s runway presentation, came the after-event at Le Germain Hotel, Mercer Street. From Arcadia’s immersive spectacle we passed into a refined celebration. The new restaurant was alive with whispers, laughter, glasses being raised. The carpet welcomed arrivals. Inside, DJ sets, curated drinks, the hum of conversation, the tang of excitement lingered in every corner. I moved through the space, greeting friends, meeting new faces, feeling the aftershocks of inspiration still echoing. The night felt endless in the best way.

This was more than a show. It was an awakening. To witness Joseph Tassoni’s work in that space, and to have both FAJO and myself personally woven into the story, felt like being gifted a glimpse of fashion’s future. It was unforgettable, soulful, effervescent. If dreams have shape, texture, and scent, then tonight I lived one.

Photos by Charlene Arianna, George Pimentel and Zach Hood.