Montreal, December 19, 2001

February is a time for musing. If the Groundhog sees no shadow, we're sure of an early spring. And far-seeing fashion observers cast anxious eyes around, asking "What's hot for next fall?"

Look no farther - a dazzling array of the latest trends for 2002 will be on view at Montréal Fashion Week, March 4 to 8. Heading up the calendar of North American fashion runway presentations, this eye-opener provides a brilliant first look at Fall/Winter collections from Montreal's most talented designers.

It doesn't take a crystal ball to realize Montreal is one of the most fashion-forward cities on the continent. This North American city with European flair is home to a wealth of fashion designers and manufacturers. Their work reflects world trends with a savvy edge all their own, a certain je ne sais quoi. Where else to get a first glimpse of emerging international trends and discover unique new voices?

"There's an abundance of talent in this city," says Lynda Brault, coordinator for the Montreal Fashion Network, organizing body of the Montréal Fashion Week. "It's an exciting challenge to showcase the entire range in just five days. We make sure to include both established and up-and-coming designers."

This spring's roster includes a host of renowned designers, like: FurWorks Canada, Luc Laroche, Marisa Minicucci, Rudsak, Nadya Toto and Yso.

It's nonstop fashion events all week, formal and informal. Designers present their work in a variety of venues, in runway shows or more intimately in-studio. Many will open the doors to their ateliers, providing a behind-the-scenes perspective. And, of course, designers and manufacturers can meet in Montreal's many clubs and cafes, or in organized schmoozathons where buyers and journalists will rub elbows.

And no soothsayer is required to find out what's happening when. For an updated detailed calendar of events and complete information, check out the MFN website: www.montrealfashionnetwork.com.

Founded in March 1998, Montréal Fashion Network is a non-profit umbrella organization for four major associations in the Quebec fashion industry. The Network is dedicated to actively promoting the province's garment industry and positioning Montreal as a major Canadian and North American fashion centre.

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Contact: Lynda Brault
Montréal Fashion Network
lynda@montrealfashionnetwork.com
(514) 392-0500

Information: Annie Gauthier
Massy-Forget Public Relations
(514) 842-2455, ext. 309