It was a dark, rainy night last Tuesday, but that didn’t stop those of us at the Thompson Hotel rooftop from heating up. There to celebrate the official launch of Fresh Train Co., a Toronto-based shirt, bag, and hat line by brothers Guillaume and Alex Viau, well-dressed partyers enjoyed an evening of drinks, great music (thanks to our DJ friends RM8s), and one heck of a beautiful view—seriously, have you been up there?! That pool is insane.

Fresh Train started out as a blog by Guillaume—his friends call him Gui—but after gaining a fan base, it quickly turned into a whole lot more. “Fashion seemed like an outlet to express my individuality and to influence others,” says Gui. He describes the line as “versatile, rare, and street-chic,” and says that due to his brand’s versatility and his own creative vision, shoppers should “expect the unexpected.” Fresh Train is designed for the “individuals who aspire to inspire those within his/her community; people who aren’t afraid to stand out in a crowd and express themselves through their distinctive style.” It’s the kind of clothing you throw on to look casual yet chic, and also the kind of clothing you envision your boyfriend wearing. 

Gui is a talented hard-working guy, but at just 21-years-old, he still appreciates the fun sides of life. “Life is a trip and I’m treating it like a vacation,” he says. “However,” he adds, “when it comes to the brand, I’m never not working.” 

My journalist pal Meredith (also a SDTC contributor) and I took some notes about the party because we are so professional (or maybe just need help remembering things?). They included: 

– Rain
– Lightning
– Pool
– Babes
– Great music

Overall it was a fun night of beautiful people in beautiful clothing (we love a man in a tank top). And if a packed Thompson rooftop in a thunderstorm means anything, it’s safe to say nothing can rain on Fresh Train’s parade.

~ Sara Harowitz