Jessica’s Fashion from the Streets of Markham
By Jessica Cianchino, Miss York Region World 2018
In the Greater Toronto Area, downtown Markham is the newest downtown. This is my city! Markham has many diverse cultures, many thriving and expanding businesses, and a wide range of entertainment for people of all ages and ethnicities. And this small town turned big city, like myself, is just beginning.
Markham’s potential is well known. As Canada’s High Tech Capital the area is a great place to live and work, and relax after work – its easy to find fun here. My growing city has come to life with the development of a new and impressive downtown core, and this new commercial section hosts many modern attractions. Cineplex VIP Cinema, as well as other diverse restaurants and boutiques are why my family and friends love going downtown. Also, a merry-go-round designed specifically for the city incorporates all Canadian-themed sculptures. Experiencing the Pride of Canada Carousel is yet another reason why people should come see the amazing attractions in downtown Markham.
Property developers in Markham prove they are environmentally aware with every new building they erect; the Remington Group encourages green commercial developments. This development group set-up their own Environmental Quality Control program in an attempt to emphasize the importance of preserving the environment while expediently developing the downtown core. Remington Group’s green work was awarded LEED ® which is a fold status for residential and commercial buildings. This organization has implemented green practices in the newest urban areas by introducing natural light, solar power and fresh air. I’m so proud that the city in which I live is not only growing in business and tourism, but also in environmental consciousness.
My style is influenced by Hip Hop music and urban culture. The way I style myself mimics what I’ve seen in downtown Toronto, but I put my own twist on it. I usually dress in athletic wear, influenced by the sports I play, infused with styles from big city streets. People my age dress similar to those from the big city, however being from Markham makes my style unique to me.
Walking through our new downtown, I can feel the essence of my city captured through the street art made by local artists. The shops and restaurants run by local residents are bigger now and almost make me feel like I’m in a smaller version of downtown Toronto. The City of Markham is growing into a city that will provide great opportunities and entertainment to its residents and it welcomes newcomers. It’s astonishing to witness my city grow into a bigger community attracting the attention of others all across Ontario. I remember growing up here before there was a downtown. Its so amazing to be able to watch my city flourish and expand into a successful place that welcomes all kinds of people, just as it has for myself and my family. I look forward to seeing the ongoing progress in the coming years. This new urban center, no matter how much it changes, will continue to be the heart of our community, and I am so proud to be a part of representing this growing metropolis to the rest of the world.
photographer: Peter Gonsalves
Louis, 18
Holly, 16
We’ve discussed how fashion is essentially a form of self-expression, but what do you do if nothing you find in stores represents you accurately? At age 18, Barrington launched his own street skate brand called “Suspended”. The brand has been doing well having launched multiple collections and is now able to ship Canada wide.
Her black and white point shoes were a snake skin style and measured to be about 4 inches high. Her heels were bought from Aldo for a retail price of $90.00. Her black fringe purse with gold detailing was also bought from H&M for a retail price of $30.00. Her nude and black Chanel sunglasses were bought for a retail price of $500.00. The total cost of Tiana’s outfit was $690.00.
His white detailed shoes were bought from Brown’s for a retail price of $120.00. In total, Peter spent $308.00 on his outfit of the day!
All fifty seven delegates were given qaccess to Snappy Towels and told to pose and shoot selfies at the beach. 
The very fashionable founder of Peekaboo Beans, Traci is always working to market her products and get the word out about her stylish and comfortable kids’ line. She recently designed the outfits that were on display at our country’s capital on Canada Day, being modeled by the children of our Prime Minister, as can be seen in the picture attached. 
All of the Peekaboo Bean prices are very reasonable as well given the amazing value that is coming with your clothes. Most dresses range anywhere from $40-$60. And for a boys T-shirt only $30-$40. To sum up my blog post I would like to address how these clothes tie into my platform, These clothes can let kids stay active and healthy in a very fashionable way and I hope all parents and kids decide to make the switch, as their website says “Once you go BEANS, you never go back!”
Our first model is Mervat, a 19 year old college student who aspires to be a paramedic. She is outgoing, talkative, supporting, and the type of person who fills the room with energy simply by entering.
For this shoot we’d agreed to take photos at six pm on College Dr. She decided to wear something a little more casual sporting vintage denim jeans with a “Bad influence” graphic halter top with threaded roses. She had purchased her trendy top at Urban Planet and thrifted her Levi jeans from a friend. She accessorizes with a pair of sunglasses and beaded flower sandals. Adding a bit of colour with a camel, braided leather belt from Bluenotes she managed to create an outfit that’s tré cute but manageable.
Our second look today is at Belle an 18 year old free spirit who is hands down one of the most exciting people you will ever meet. She is a dedicated hard worker currently holding two jobs at David’s Tea and Marshalls, both located in Medicine Hat mall. With a great love for friends and a soul meant to wonder she loves to take adventures. Being the wildheart she is she loves to take risks with her style. Today she decided to pair a fitted cotton-mesh black bodysuit from Garage with dark denim Hollister jean shorts and simple black flip flops for a cute summer look. A flattering outfit for checking out the nightlife downtown with friends.
For accessories, she gives us a small, grey, textured Guess coin purse with stunning shimmering and beige nails to give the look a little more glam factor.
The Monarch Theatre is Canada’s oldest operating movie theatre. The theatre remains relevant playing new movies and also allows viewers to enjoy classical films now and then. Many citizens in the Hat hold fond memories here such as watching movies together with their father or spending times with friends.
The gas lights brighten up the streets of downtown Medicine Hat, and serve as a reminder 
“Street fashion to me shows comfort and character.” Lexi explained, “Also bright colors show bright personalities.”
Hannah, age 19, is rocking a very cute but casual outfit. Her shirt was bought at Winners for 18$ and her jeans are from Garage for 40$. Fashion isn’t always about who spends the most money, as long as you look confident you can rock anything!
Mackenzie is rocking denim shorts from Garage for 20$ and a cute t-shirt from American Eagle for 31$. Matilda is sporting a comfy but cute look! She’s wearing a t-shirt from Brandy Melville purchased for only 18$ and denim shorts from American Eagle for 50$.