JASON BENNETT Rhowan James Rhowan James: Rhowan James, a Toronto native-born to Jamaican parents who immigrated to Canada, showed him the meaning of hard work and how to never give up on his dreams. At a young age, he developed a passion for fashion and a desire to customize and accessorize clothing, to fit his taste. Rhowan grew up watching his father getting ready for church every Sunday morning. Intrigued by his father’s sense of style, it taught him how to take pride in his appearance when presenting himself to the world. Without any formal training in fashion, he knew that teaching himself this artistic craft would be a challenge. However, with sheer determination, pure passion, and drive, he learned everything about the process of designing clothes by reverse-engineering them. He taught himself how to design, construct, cut, and sew his patterns and fabrics. He started creating designs that reflected his interests, as inspired by various trips taken abroad, he soon envisioned what he wanted in a menswear brand. In 2017, he knew that it was time to launch his self-entitled menswear brand, Rhowan James. He endeavors to give a fresh point of view for menswear. His goal is to become a leading international fashion brand.
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In 2017 Rhowan was nominated for Toronto Men’s Fashion Week (*TOM) Emerging Menswear Designer Award. Showing his first collection with 10 looks, he won the award and was the last winner of this award in *TOM history. In the fall of 2019, he showcased his newest collection for Spring-Summer 2020. Although entering a new decade with hope and new possibilities, the world was affected by Covid-19 with the fashion industry being hit the hardest. Fortunately, in 2020, he had to quickly shift gears and started making PPE masks to help support his business. During these hard times, it brought out a new fire and determination not to give up. Presently, Rhowan is planning to showcase his new collection in the fall for Spring-Summer 2022. Jason Bennett: Jason Bennett or SIRWALTERFASHIONISTO to most has always had a unique take on fashion since his teenage years. Raised in Toronto by Trinidadian parents, the 80’s and 90’s street style and unique suiting inspired him to become fearless with his sense of style. Always wanting to look his best no matter where he went and to stand out in a crowd.
