What’s the answer to an industry that is as ever-changing as fashion? To Sarah Power, it’s finding the leading pop-up location to shop: INLAND.

Launched in 2014, INLAND is a pop-up shop that runs for two days every spring and fall. Filled with emerging and contemporary fashion it provides shoppers with a unique experience to discover brands and designers they may not have known before. Proudly representing our country with 100% of its collections made or designed in Canada, INLAND leads as a source of local, sustainable and future-focused brands. With a carefully curated mix of accessories and apparel, INLAND is a great place for brands and shoppers to build networks (and their wardrobe) of progressive and like-minded fashion.

But to really understand what makes INLAND what it is today and how it came to be, we’ve asked its founder Sarah Power a few questions. Read her interview below to gain insight her insight on fashion, Canada’s place in the industry and a possible hint about the royal wedding.

SPOTLIGHT: SARAH POWER

WHY DID YOU START INLAND?

INLAND is a response to the changing retail landscape and consumer desire to have more unique, sustainable shopping options. Our agile environment allows emerging Canadian designers, who are underrepresented in mainstream retail, to connect directly with consumers and promote their brand in a see-now-buy-now setting.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE LATEST TRENDS FOR SPRING/SUMMER?

There is a lot of colour and forgiving silhouettes this season. Jewelry is a wonderful mix of both big and bold as well as minimal signature pieces. Designers are focusing on versatility and high-quality fabrics and materials. Which is perfect for building longevity into your wardrobe.

WHAT CANADIAN DESIGNERS ARE YOU MOST EXCITED TO SHOWCASE?

They are all incredible! Truly, each collection is so special and comes with a personal story that is so captivating. It’s always amazing to welcome newcomers from afar. Like Thief&Bandit (clothing) from Halifax, St Marc (shoes) from Montreal and Sunday Feel (jewelry) from Winnipeg.

WHO ARE SOME UP AND COMING CANADIAN DESIGNERS?

Most of the brands at INLAND are emerging brands, having been in business for less than 5 years.

DO YOU THINK MEGAN MARKLE WILL WEAR A CANADIAN DESIGNER’S DRESS FOR HER WEDDING? AND IF SO WHO?

I hope so!! I think it would be amazing to see her in a custom Greta Constantine, something really refreshing and different. Or a classic gown by Mikael D.

WHAT THREE PIECES ARE KEY FOR A TRENDY SUMMER 2018 WARDROBE?

I think wanting to be ‘trendy’ is a bit outdated. But I do think that there are some themes in fashion that are standing out – like sustainable materials, purchasing pieces that have been manufacturing mindfully (using deadstock fabrics, modular designs, eco-friendly dying practices, etc.). Garments and accessories that promise a long-life are better for the wallet and better for the planet.

WHAT UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE DO CANADIAN DESIGNERS BRING TO THE FASHION INDUSTRY?

We have 4 distinctly different seasons in Canada. This challenges designers to be innovative and mindful in their work, to create garments that can transition from season to season and collections that work together over time. This is not easy and it pays testament to the talent we have in Canada. Dare I say, fashion is not all about aesthetics, it’s also about being practical.

THIS SPRING’S INLAND

INLAND is back April 27th – 28th, 2018 at 134 Peter Street, Toronto. Shoppers will have the chance to shop from 70 Canadian designers and brands. And best of all, it’s completely free! You can find more information on INLAND here.