FASHTALKS WITH CODE 22

Tell us the story behind how your brand came to life. What inspired its creation?

I always dreamed of having my own brand, I think every design student feels that urge, because a brand is a true extension of who we are. The opportunity came during a turning point in my life: I had just been laid off and was going through what I’d call a mid-life reset. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I saw it as the moment to finally build something of my own.

How did you choose your brand name, and what does it represent?

The name CODE 22 comes from a mix of personal meaning and symbolism. The number 22 is known in numerology as the “master builder”, someone who never gives up and turns ideas into reality. It also happens to be the day I was born. Combining that with the idea of a “code,” something intentional and structured, the name came naturally. It represents resilience, purpose, and creation.

"⁠I make it a point to meet almost all of my clients at least once or twice a year. Those conversations are open and constructive. I never take criticism personally—we share the same goal: to make the brand better and more inspiring."

What core values guide your brand, and how do they show up in your designs?

Quality always comes before margin. I would rather reduce profit than compromise on what we deliver. Our clients deserve garments that not only look good but also last, through daily wear and repeated washes. That commitment shows up in our fabric choices, construction, and finishing.

What inspired you to become a designer, and how has that influence evolved?

Fashion always fascinated me, even before I knew exactly what role I wanted in it. I started working in retail at 17, which gave me a real understanding of the customer. Over time, I became more drawn to the creative side, and that’s when I decided to study fashion design. That early exposure still influences me, I design with both creativity and real-life wearability in mind.

Walk us through your creative process from concept to finished piece.

My process often starts with movies or characters, they spark the emotional tone of a collection. From there, I build a color palette and begin selecting fabrics. Once those foundations are set, I explore silhouettes and shapes that complement them. Then we move into technical development: flat sketches, patterns, and spec sheets, followed by prototypes. After fittings, we refine proportions and details until everything feels right.

What sets your brand apart in today’s fashion landscape?

We don’t follow trends, I rely on instinct. Each season is about offering something new and unexpected, whether through fit, fabric, or both. Being a smaller brand allows us to take risks, and that freedom is a big part of our identity.

What was your first experience in the fashion industry, and how did it shape you?

My first role was as a freelance designer for a haute couture brand in Montreal. It was an intense but invaluable experience. Clients expected perfection, and nothing less was acceptable. That level of precision and attention to detail has stayed with me ever since.

What has been your biggest challenge so far, and what did it teach you?

The biggest challenge was bringing the brand to life—taking an idea from paper and turning it into something real. It taught me resilience and the importance of persistence.

What accomplishment are you most proud of to date?

Evolving CODE 22 from an underwear brand into a complete lifestyle concept. Today, the clothing reflects a broader identity and philosophy, it defines who we are.

"The number 22 is known in numerology as the “master builder”, someone who never gives up and turns ideas into reality. It also happens to be the day I was born. Combining that with the idea of a “code,” something intentional and structured, the name came naturally. It represents resilience, purpose, and creation."

How do you connect with your customers and use their feedback?

I make it a point to meet almost all of my clients at least once or twice a year. Those conversations are open and constructive. I never take criticism personally—we share the same goal: to make the brand better and more inspiring.

Outside of your brand, what are you most passionate about?

Movies and music. Both have a strong emotional impact on me, and they constantly inspire my creative work.

What excites you most about the future of your brand?

The unknown. We’re constantly growing and learning, like a child discovering the world. I’m excited to keep pushing boundaries alongside our clients. The industry is evolving quickly, and our willingness to take risks will keep us moving forward