Designers make their mark at top Canadian showcase

James Steward and Lisa Jayne Dann, both from Leeds, were the first British designers to exhibit at Vancouver Fashion Week, which concluded on Sunday.

Mr Steward's collection was inspired by ancient mythology and Miss Dunn's, which featured natural and earthy animal prints, drew on her time spent travelling.

Their shows at the Empire Landmark Hotel attracted more than 500 people, including fashion buyers and media outlets from around the world. The event was part of Leeds in Vancouver, which was also a chance for the two designers to make retail and manufacturing contacts.

A couture hat by Leeds-based milliner Beth Hirst, from Beth Hirst Couture Hats, was commissioned by Marketing Leeds, and proved popular after debuting in Mr Steward's collection.

Deborah Green, chief executive of Marketing Leeds, which organised the initiative, said: "We are delighted to give two of Leeds most talented designers this international opportunity. Not only does this showcase their work but it actively demonstrates the creative and collaborative nature of Leeds as a city."