Soluna

Toronto based label LUNARA brought a striking vision of modern tailoring to the Fashion Art Toronto SS26 runway with SOLUNA, a collection that examined duality through sharply constructed silhouettes, dramatic proportions and a darkly elegant aesthetic. Founded by designer Michelle Forcelledo-Wolff, the brand is rooted in sustainable fashion practices, working primarily with locally sourced deadstock materials to create garments that challenge traditional notions of formalwear while remaining conscious of their environmental impact. According to the designer's FAT statement, sustainability should be a foundational element of the design process, with every garment intended to endure, adapt or be reimagined over time.

The collection's title, SOLUNA, references the sun and moon, establishing a central theme of opposing forces existing together. That tension was evident throughout the runway presentation. As described by the designer, the collection explores a space where "structure meets disruption and elegance meets unease,"(FAT)  using formalwear as a vehicle for examining contemporary identity and shifting cultural landscapes. Rendered almost entirely in black, white and deep red, the collection reflected what Forcelledo-Wolff describes as the stark contrasts of today's political and cultural climate.

Image by @cosplay @mio_mak |  @prevalentfocus@philipvassighi |  @memoryun_snap

At first glance, many of the garments drew inspiration from familiar office attire. Crisp white button down shirts, tailored trousers, and structured mini skirts formed the foundation of the collection. Yet each look carried an unexpected distortion. Strong angular shoulders projected outward while other garments featured exaggerated rounded forms that transformed the hip proportions. Powerful silhouettes were created by narrow waists,  exaggerating the dramatic volume above and below.

Image by @cosplay @mio_mak |  @prevalentfocus@philipvassighi |  @memoryun_snap

Styling played a significant role in reinforcing the collection's narrative. Models appeared with sleek, tightly pulled back hair, recalling the polished appearance associated with corporate environments. Smoky eyes and rich red lips introduced an element of glamour and seduction.

Several looks featured futuristic metallic headpieces created by Toronto based artist BQBQBQ916. The sculptural accessories resembled silver exoskeletons extending across the face, framing the eyes with delicate metallic prongs. The pieces introduced a technological dimension to the collection and amplified its themes of transformation and identity, creating some of the most memorable visual moments of the show.

Image by @cosplay |  @prevalentfocus

The collection culminated in a breathtaking final look that embodied the themes explored throughout the presentation. A voluminous white gown emerged with exaggerated shoulders, cascading ruffles and dramatic side hip structures that expanded the silhouette outward. The shape recalled historical court dress and Rococo fashion, particularly through its emphasis on width at the hips while remaining relatively flat through the front and back. The result was both regal and imposing.

Image by @cosplay |  @prevalentfocus

At the centre of the gown, a cutout across the chest revealed a crimson wound-like motif that appeared to bleed across the bodice, created through intricate hand sewn beadwork. The detail transformed the pristine white gown into something darker and more emotional. Paired with the model's loose hair, sculptural headpiece and the appearance of blood smeared across her face, the closing look delivered a powerful visual statement.

With SOLUNA, LUNARA successfully translated themes of conflict, coexistence and transformation into a collection that felt both deeply personal and culturally relevant.