It’s been seven years since Adhesif Clothing participated in Portobello West. Now designer Melissa Ferreira has a store front at 2200 Main Street, shoots her campaigns in Europe (thanks foreign lover), and continues to receive national media interest.
“Portobello West was one of the very first markets Adhesif Clothing participated in when we were establishing our brand in 2003. It was a great place to meet new and existing clientele and build a brand.”
Melissa’s brand of handmade clothing is created with up to 95% recycled materials. Using quality vintage fabrics reduces waste but it also adds distinctive personality to her collection. So when you walk into the Adhesif store it’s a colourful feast for the eyes.
Melissa is able to mass produce her collection based on shapes (a crop top, circle, skirt, wrap dress, etc) rather than fabric. Once you find the silhouette that flatters you, then the fun begins. Flip through the colours and prints that make up the sweater shape you love and eventually a shade and pattern will speak to your soul and you have to have it. Only after finding the “it” piece will you notice all the other lovely gems in the store; many of which are the handiwork of other Portobello West alumni.
“By showing at Portobello West I also met and built long term relationships with other designer colleagues like Denise Wilson from Bronsino and Trudy Wynans from ToodleBunny to name a few,” says Melissa. “I look back on my early years at Portobello West with acknowledgement to a good start in my fashion career.”
Now Melissa is looking forward to the future of Adhesif Clothing.