TIFF 2021: Our Guide to Getting TIFF Red Carpet Ready

With the chance of bumping into, meeting or even speaking to some of the world’s top celebs at all the star-studded events in Toronto, we all surely want to look our best. But whether you’re a local, visitor or a trained professional, if can be hard for us all to navigate the fashion and beauty scene in #The6ix.

Here we used our industry expertise and insider knowledge to put together for you a quick guide to ensure your TIFF Red Carpet prep is smoother than ever.

TIFF Guide to Looking Red Carpet Ready:

We all know the key elements to the perfect look is the right Hair, Makeup (and Skincare), and Fashion. So we break down exactly that for you below.

Get that Shot-Worthy Hairdo

For the ladies: No one likes that bed-head look on picture day, luckily Toronto is filled with some of the top hairstylists in Canada. Unsurprisingly saturated in the Bloor-Yorkville area. Including our friends at Sassoon who would be a great choice. Don’t over do it–pun intended–but make sure you got those locks locked down. 😉

For the gents: Hats are in, but nothing looks better than a slick new cut. Toronto is also home to some of the top barbers in the country, and there are shops right across the city. Some of our editor’s favourites are Glassbox Barbershop (which have a location on Harbord St and another in Roncesvalles), Cadmen Barbershop on Queen West (super close to the festival area), and Throne Barbershop at Yonge and Gerrard. There’s a number of cuts that are in, whatever your preference, just ideally get it looking fresh.

Get that Skin lookin’ Flawless

For the ladies: Less is more. Don’t overdo it, get it looking just right. Whether you’re getting those extensions put in for your long locks, longer eyelashes, or makeup done. Try to keep things lookin’ glam but not pinup doll. Keep it classy. There are a ton of options out there as the majority of department store makeup stands will offer makeup artistry services, some even complimentary. Looking for something a little more private? Check out the Stylu app, like the Uber for Makeup Artists and Hairstylists. You’re welcome. 😛

For the gents: The same above applies, because YASS that is the world we live in. Finally. Some of our editor’s favourites are Tom Ford Men’s beauty products, whether it’s concealer, or eye brown pencil. If you want them coming to you, the same app above applies.

Gender Neutral Skincare: The key ingredient to the flawless look, is obviously flawless skin. It’s easier than it sounds. There is a number of great facial options and skincare line ups but some of our overnight favourites, and one we love is This Works because it starts with getting the right sleep. This Works has a collection of products that will help you sleep better and then feel better in the morning, with the right products to get you lookin’ your prime. But if you want a little extra rejuvenation, the My Blend spa at The Ritz-Carlton Toronto by Clarins Canada does just that. Their My Blend facial is the PERFECT way to get that skin lookin’ it’s very best. Our editor went in to check it out, and loved it.

Get that Best Dressed Look

For the ladies: Say yes to the dress, or maybe even the pant suit –it’s hot too! 😉 Luckily there are a lot more options for the ladies, from popping into any of the major department stores including Nordstrom, Hudson Bay, Holt Renfrew or even a variety of the shops at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre. But there is also a slew of rising and accomplished Canadian designers available from The Salon at Stylist Box presented by NIUCOCO. But if you’re looking to make a splash on a smaller budget, renting is the way to go. Luckily our friends at The Fitzroy can do just that, offering up that “Dress Rental Magic.”

For the gents: Unfortunately unlike the variety of options for the ladies, there aren’t as many for the gents, but there are some trailblazers for sure. A great option is the Bloor-Yorkville area to hit up the Holt Renfrew Men’s store, and Harry Rosen, although gents unfortunately off the rack at that point is your only resort but these two hotspots are likely to have something for you. Last, but definitely not least, our editor’s personal favourite — and highly recommended– Nordstrom Toronto Eaton Centre and Yorkdale locations. They have an impressive line of ready-to-wear menswear options to choose from, and their service… above the rest. Read on below for details on their 24-hour drop off service and on-location styling services that come to you! In terms of style, don’t just blend in. Make a statement. Wear something a little outside the box. Maybe a statement jacket, some paired patterns, stripes, or bold colours. Or maybe even some “out there” red bottoms to really get the crowds ooo’ing and aww’ing.