Estonian Design Took Over New York with an Immersive Fashion Performance

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Estonian fashion made a bold return to New York with an electrifying, immersive fashion performance at The Canvas 3.0 in the Oculus at Westfield World Trade Center. Hosted by the Estonian Design House, the event showcased 14 Estonian designers in an avant-garde spectacle directed by Reet Aus, a pioneer in sustainable fashion and upcycling.

Ditching the traditional runway format, the event blurred the lines between fashion and performance art, creating an immersive experience where garments came to life through movement and storytelling. Reet Aus, known for her innovative approach to sustainable design, directed the show, incorporating local performers to present each collection in a theatrical and unexpected way.

The stage showcased some of Estonia’s most innovative designers including Reet Aus, – The visionary behind upcycled fashion, Oksana Tandit – A master of modern elegance, No(N)s – A brand redefining artistic fashion, Karlotta – Contemporary with a bold, playful edge, Franz Raver, Luxe Hapsal, Nordhale, Sokisahtel, Tie Apron, Tikunova, Tuub, Sandra Luks, Alpaka, and Xenia Joost – designers pushing the boundaries of sustainability and creativity. Attendees had the rare opportunity to meet and connect the creative minds behind the collections.

The high-energy showcase was elevated by a live DJ set from Tiburón, providing a lively soundscape, while multidisciplinary artist Kitty Florentine brought her signature blend of beauty, humor, and drama to the stage in an interactive performance piece. Fashion photographer Mauricio Zelaya captured the night, preserving its most striking and fashion-forward moments.

(courtesy: Mauricio Zelaya)

Following the performance, guests had the opportunity to shop the pop-up collection, featuring exclusive pieces from the showcased designers. The night concluded with a networking session, where fashion insiders, designers, and artists mingled over drinks, discussing the future of sustainable fashion and Estonian design on a global stage.

As the venue for this groundbreaking event, The Canvas once again proved why it is reshaping the retail landscape. Known for activating vacant spaces and giving independent designers access to global markets, The Canvas 3.0 provided the perfect backdrop for Estonia’s emerging fashion talent.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, The Canvas is one of the few retail businesses listed on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Partnerships Platform, fostering a community-driven atmosphere that prioritizes ethical and transparent business practices. It continues to be a launchpad for independent brands, showcasing innovative designers from around the world. The flagship store and the Canvas 3.0 are located at 185 Greenwich St in the Oculus World Trade Center with an additional location in Seaport at 93 South St. The Canvas plans to have more locations in NYC opening soon.

This event was part of The Canvas’s Fashion and Design Diplomacy initiative, which spotlights global talent and brings the future of fashion to New York City. With Estonia’s bold and sustainable designs taking center stage, the night was a testament to the power of fashion as both an art form and a movement.

Presented by: APG

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