For two decades, the M.A.C Viva Glam Fashion Cares fund-raiser has challenged expectations with over-the-top couture and eyebrow-raising fashion shows. This year's benefit—which was a farewell production by longtime artistic director and producer Phillip Ing—included a retrospective of clothing designs from the past 19 years of the event. Stephen Brown, co-chair of Fashion Cares, said the blowout gala (dubbed Drama, Daring and Dreams) was conceived as a celebration "of our past successes."Guests arriving at Metro Toronto Convention Centre got their first hint the evening would feature a trip down memory lane when they encountered a collection of designs from previous galas on raised platforms along the entrance area. Off to the side, Opera Forte performed a lively show in full classical opera regalia. Off to the side, Opera Forte performed a lively show in full classical opera regalia. Nearby, the BMO Boutique Ballroom-from David Connolly and Jann Coppen, cofounders of the Ideashop-offered a wide array of fashions and household products for sale. While show-only ticket holders shopped in the boutique, gala patrons made their way to the dining space for sumptuous MTCC-catered dinner. At 10:30, close to 5,000 guests took their seats for the fashion show. Models strutted on a stage shaped like the iconic red ribbon symbolizing AIDS awareness. Westbury National Show Systems created the stage with help from Frischkorn Audiovisual. The lineup of entertainers included dance troupe Momix, performance art group Blue Man Group, and musical artists the Philosopher Kings and Divine Brown. Aerialists from Hangtime Circus performed in front of a large screen from MVI showing collages from past Fashion Cares benefits. Near the end of the show, male and female models sporting painted-on designer outfits took to the stage. The grand finale presented a catwalk display of 50 past and new fashion designs—all featuring red elements in a nod to the red ribbon and AIDS fundraising.
Jeanne Beker, host of City TV 's Fashion Television, was the M.C. of the fashion show. The lineup of celebrity guests included actress Pamela Anderson, a spokesperson title sponsor for M.A.C Viva Glam V. Other sponsors included BMO and the Bay.
Jeanne Beker, host of City TV 's Fashion Television, was the M.C. of the fashion show. The lineup of celebrity guests included actress Pamela Anderson, a spokesperson title sponsor for M.A.C Viva Glam V. Other sponsors included BMO and the Bay.
Models wearing painted-on fashions strutted their stuff at M.A.C Viva Glam 20, the 20th annual Fashion Cares fundraiser, held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Viva Glam V spokesperson Pamela Anderson is flanked by (from left) designer Dean Caten of Dsquared2, Fashion Cares co-chair Stephen Brown, and designer Dan Caten, also of Dsquared2.
Red roses on coffee tables formed a design resembling the iconic red ribbon symbolizing AIDS awareness.
Models in lingerie performed near the La Senza display in the sales boutique area.
Opera Forte performed near the display of fashion designs from previous Fashion Cares galas.
The retrospective display included this exotic red gown.
Funky furniture from Progressive Furniture Rentals decorated one of the private lounges.
