It often takes a big brain to help build up the biggest brand, and Christian Dare is just that kinda dude. Having repped some of the most serious brands around, we’re bigging-up this Montreal boy turned Toronto Tastemaker…
Give us a snippet about you. What should people know?
I am an academic who defected from Cultural Studies and ended up in fashion, which gives me an interesting perspective on fashion and design. I have spent much of my career working for such big name brands as Holt Renfrew, H&M, Club Monaco, Ralph Lauren and Indigo in many different creative positions including National Visual Manager. In the end, I realized I like working best for myself and thus opened Stylist Box with Gail McInnes.
Finish this sentence: I love Toronto because…
…as a former Montrealer, I am not supposed to like it. But in all honesty I like that Toronto is a city with so much potential and it wants to grow – it’s very good at fostering new ideas and new businesses.
What are three things you simply cannot live without?
A good book, a venti Americano (black), and music.
What’s your favourite restaurant and why?
It’s a toss up: when I am in the east end, Gio Rana’s and when I am in the west (my local), Delux. Both have amazing comfort food; they feel like home. And no, my mother wasn’t Cuban or Italian.
What’s your favourite drink/cocktail and where do you go to get it?
A dirty martini and the best one I’ve had surprisingly comes from Cherry Cola’s Rock N’ Rolla Cabaret and Lounge. Ask Michelle to make you one, she will probably roll her eyes and refuse but if she agrees it’s worth the trouble – they are amazing.
Who’s your favourite designer/brand and why do you sport their fashions?
Picking a favourite is tough: I love anything from Raf Simons to Thom Browne to APC. Homegrown wise, I will always reach for Philip Sparks, DUBUC, M0851 or WANT Les essentiels de la Vie. I like classics with a twist or edge.
Let’s get social for a mo’. How can people stay up-to-date with all your city-trotting?
I will be honest, I am still trying to keep up with all my social media, but you can often find me tweeting at @christiandare for my personal views and through @stylistbox for more work and fashion related tweets. Follow both – the juxtaposition makes it more fun!