1924–2016
Mount Pleasant Cemetery
Section 28 Lot 2577
Born in Toronto, Claire Haddad became a trailblazer in Canadian fashion, transforming how women dressed at home. In the early 1960s, she introduced a line of elegant sleepwear and loungewear that combined comfort with sophistication, a concept she called “At Homewear.” Her vision also extended beyond the living room; Haddad had the idea of wearing loungewear as chic evening attire, a provocative break from traditional fashion boundaries.
Her bold use of fabrics and vibrant colors earned international acclaim. Haddad was the first Canadian designer featured in Women’s Wear Daily and Vogue, and her creations were worn by celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Carol Burnett. In 1966, one of her designs appeared on the cover of Vogue, cementing her status as a global fashion influencer.
Haddad’s contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Coty Award, often dubbed “fashion’s Oscars,” and six Canadian Edee Awards. In 1979, she received one of Canada’s highest honours, the Order of Canada, for elevating Canadian design on the world stage.
Claire Haddad passed away on May 17, 2016, leaving behind a legacy of fashion innovation and elegance. Her work not only shaped Canadian fashion but also empowered women the world over to feel stylish and confident in every setting.
Sources:
• Seneca Canadian Fashion Resource – “Claire Haddad: A Canadian Fashion Icon (1924–2016)”
• The Globe and Mail – Obituary
• Quiet West – “Celebrating Canada’s Finest Designers: Featuring Claire Haddad”
• Governor General of Canada – Order of Canada: Claire Margaret Haddad
• Seneca Canadian Fashion Resource – “A Canadian Fashion Dynasty: Albert and Claire Haddad”
Photo: Emmie Tsumura, Mount Pleasant Group
