Nestled on the shore of Lake Ontario rests the historic Palais Royale. Originally opened in 1922, it became one of Toronto's most famous dance halls. Now restored to surpass its original splendor, it breathes new life and represents the pulse of the modern ballroom.

On July 25, 2008 the doors at Palais Royale was opened for the Fashion Has No Borders™ event hosted by Jeanne Beker (Fashion Television), co-host Yasmin Warsame (International Supermodel) and special appearance by top artist Jarvis Church, Belinda Brady and more. This year FHNB™ will support children in need both at home and around the globe. Part of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Sick Kids Foundation and Watoto Canada - an organization that assists children in Uganda and East Africa.

Fashion can be exclusionary. But now, Fashion Has No Borders™ will celebrate the energy and substance of style across races, classes and cultures. Fashion Has No Borders™ will bring the best in fashion, beauty, music and art from various corners of the globe to the forefront of the fashion scene. It’s a convergence of international cultures, from designers to entertainers to celebrities from around the world. Fashion Has No Borders™ provides designers a unique opportunity to showcase their creations in front of an audience of serious influencers - media, stylists, consumers, and buyers.

This year Fashion Has No Borders™ takes on a Caribbean theme. The Caribbean is a hotbed of design activity and full of yet-to-be discovered fashion stars! Some of the Caribbean designers have been showing for years, others may be showing their collections for the first time. Fashion Has No Borders ™ features a mix of designers who produce a range of fashion, from travel clothing, classic and romantic silhouettes, art inspired pop culture wear, Generation X clothing, men and women's designs. The common thread is that they are all talented in their own rights. All reflective of the highly individual and eclectic range of fashion tastes found in the Caribbean.

The event started off with a sunset reception at 7:30PM with musical entertainment by Yeti Ajasin and Lady Son. The view from the patio was simply amazing. Jeanne Beker and Yasmin Warsame greeted and interviewed the designers followed by the welcoming remarks for the show. Jermaine Cowan, Chris Rouse, David Kirton, Belinda Brandy and Jarvis Church provided musical performances between fashion show acts.

Jermaine Cowan

This Jamaica-born young artist sends off stellar vibes by fusing elements of hip-hop, pop, and soul into the classic reggae and dancehall sounds. Jermaine developed an early appreciation for music while growing up and he accredits his father for inspiring him to passionately develop his gifts and talents in singing and songwriting. Jermaine has been influenced by distinguished veterans such as Michael Jackson, Kirk Franklin and Luther Vandross. The impact of reggae artists such as Sanchez, Dennis Brown and Bob Marley is evident as he builds upon some of the common elements developed by these legends. Jermaine pairs his sound with genuine lyrics as he shares personal experiences and puts life into an insightful perspective.