In the world of Lakuachimoto
By Angèle Simon
Reading time: 4 minutes
While in the midst of producing his new collection, designer Vincent Lakuach welcomes us into his workshop, where his wildest ideas come to life. Amidst exchanges with a stylist seeking garments and the reception of a somewhat lost client, he shares the details of his journey in the fashion industry.
From Dentist to Designer
Like many fashion creators, Vincent has an uncommon career path. After 10 years as a dentist, he decides to pursue a passion that has been brewing within him for several years. In 2017, he began his fashion design training at LaSalle College and quickly gained attention.
One day, he is invited to participate in the first edition of the M3/Men's Fashion Montreal event. With only three months to create pieces that will leave the audience speechless, his success is immediate, leading him to launch his brand in 2019: Lakuachimoto.
Today, Vincent still juggles his roles as a dentist and a designer, fulfilling different needs. He mentions that his dental clients experience immediate satisfaction, whereas in the fashion industry, he must work for several months before receiving feedback on his creations. It also serves as a means for him to express himself freely and unleash his creativity to the fullest.
"What's very important to me is being able to express oneself as one is, not being limited by what society imposes on us."
This aspect is strongly reflected in his creations, which are inclusive, bold, and defy industry norms. Vincent primarily creates for individuals who seek attention—exceptional people, artists, drag queens, or singers. While his collections have been prominent on the stage, he has recently ventured into more ready-to-wear pieces. Nevertheless, they still embody his extravagant vision and do not adhere to seasons, trends, or other traditional codes.
"It allows me to create a swimsuit at the same time as a fur coat."
Les Nocturnes
Lakuachimoto's 5th collection, "Les Nocturnes," consists of 21 looks with romantic, modern, and irreverent aesthetics. Inspired by the small and big moments of life, this collection celebrates love, divorce, work, and even death.
The collection has been captured in a series of images by photographer Enzo Romero. Asymmetrical cuts, white lace, faux fur, shine, and fuchsia pink take center stage in the pieces worn by the model, who, according to Vincent, perfectly embodies the Lakuachimoto girl. Local artists are already snapping up several pieces for their gala outfits.
"These are garments I want to see on red carpets, at major events, and in the significant moments of life."
Les Nocturnes also features more classic pieces. While preparing the collection, Vincent created a playlist of classical music, which influenced his designs thereafter. For Vincent, music is an important guideline during the entire process of creating a collection.
But before diving into the collection development, the designer also relies on his emotions, how he feels at the present moment, and what is happening in the world.
"In all these feelings, I try to find a universe in which I can draw my ideas."
Drag Queens and Fashion Shows
Over time, Lakuachimoto has become a significant figure in the emerging fashion scene in Montreal. Quickly, drag queens from across the country have teamed up with the designer to create their stage costumes. Among the most well-known, Vincent has dressed Suki Doll, Gisèle Lullaby, Denim, and Sissy Superstar for the famous show Canada’s Drag Race.
The designer has also stood out in his fashion shows, particularly at the M.A.D. Festival. In 2023, he collaborated with the Canopées choir ensemble. About fifteen powerful vocalists opened the runway for the Les Nocturnes collection. The result: a show that was both dark and eccentric.
The previous year, he drew inspiration from Alice in Wonderland for the Cyber Alter collection runway. About ten artists performed on stage alongside the designer, who himself made an appearance playing the flute to conclude the spectacle.
In short, Vincent goes all out, and one thing is certain - he's not ready to stop anytime soon!