Toronto Fashion Week: 5 Questions with designer Christopher Bates

It’s not all about the ladies: As the only menswear designer showing at Toronto Fashion Week, Christopher Bates invigorates catwalks with impeccably tailored suits and Euro-centric, yet understated, men’s fashions. 

Trained in Milan at the legendary Istituto Marangoni, the Vancouver-born designer bases his business out of Toronto. His Fall collection featured sharp suits (and a whole lot of leather!), but he’s springing forward this season with sportswear that promises a sophisticated edge.

We asked Christopher the WHO, WHAT, WHERE and WHY of his Spring 2014 collection. See his answers below!

WHAT was your inspiration for the spring/summer 2014 collection? 
My Spring 2014 Collection is inspired by the elegant nautical lifestyle of the Riviera. It's designed for men who may, or may not, own a yacht, but certainly dress like they do.


WHY do you love showing in Toronto and the energy at Mastercard Fashion Week? 
World MasterCard Fashion Week is the second largest fashion week in North America after New York, so it's a fantastic, high-profile showcase for my line. Leading up to my show there's a lot of work to do, but as soon it's done I get to simply enjoy being a part of it. The energy and passion in the tents is palpable. 


WHEN people see the collection, what do you hope they’ll take away from it? 
My goal is to inspire men to dress better, to dress for success.


WHO is the 'Christopher Bates' man and what is he doing on a Saturday afternoon in Toronto?
The 'Christopher Bates' man wants to be like James Bond. He's successful, cultured, well-travelled, and appreciates the finer things in life. On a Saturday afternoon he is taking a break from his hectic schedule to enjoy the fruits of his labour.


WHERE do you see yourself and your brand in five years?
In five years I see Christopher Bates as a leading international designer fashion brand. I will be headquartered in Europe.


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