Opening today: Topshop/Topman flagship store at Yorkdale + online shopping launches
All the previews and the pop-ups and the capsule collections were worth it — and they're over — because Topshop officially opens the doors to its flagship store in partnership with The Hudson's Bay Company. Modeled after the brand's iconic Oxford Circus store in London, the new 15,000-square-foot space is two floors with a connecting in-shop stairwell. It's kooky and cool all the way: Polished black glass portal entries, carnival neon shop lettering, graphic mural decals and accents throughout the store. There's also a daylong opening celebration with a photo booth for your close-up, complimentary Topshop makeovers, and a performance by UK-based band Friendly Fires in-store at 6 p.m. Can't make it? Online shopping, an international first, also launches today here (Topshop) and here (Topman).

Vote for your favourite design in Danier Leather and Ryerson University's third annual student challenge
Attention aspiring fashion students and prospects, Danier Leather is continuing their partnership with Ryerson for third-year design students, tasking them with creating an original women's leather garment. Previous winners included menswear newbie John Hillifer (we reviewed his senior collection a few months back) and Andrea Dineen. What does the winner get? A $5,000 cash prize, a three month paid internship at Danier headquarters and the production and sale of the original designs for retail locations across Canada. That's exposure — and they need your help. Along with a panel of experts, you're encouraged to vote online for the top three prizes, and you can also follow behind the scenes action of the entire process. Check out this page for more.

The F-List celebrates five years with an online auction of Canadian fash favourites
Gal-about-town Leesa Butler launched the F-List in 2006 to connect Canadians with homegrown designers and brands. In five years, she's managed to not only become a strong presence in the business of fashion, but also a support system for emerging talents and the style interested alike. From networking events to newsletters, Butler remains committed to being a champion of Canadian fashion. She's also all about giving back. Starting tomorrow until October 16, Butler is hosting F-Listed, an online auction that puts up the best from Canada's style set on the auction block. All proceeds will benefit Dress for Success Toronto, an organization aimed at preparing and helping women enter the workforce by outfitting them with "professional" attire and providing support services. Who's participating? Fur mavericks IZMA, men's Mecca Hugo Boss, and less-than-pricey Joe Fresh. Get in on the action here.

Also worth knowing:

Nella Bella introduces real-time shopping: A Canadian fashion & technology first
On October 1, handbag brand Nella Bella participated in the first television event that allowed iPhone users to purchase products live on TV during OutTV's Men's Fashion Insider. By using the new app SeeLoveBuy, viewers can instantly purchase products in real-time during broadcasts. The app gives detailed product information, pictures, and other buy-it-now or wishlist-for-later functions. Will this new HSN-ish approach to buying actually become the next big thing?

Photo courtesy of Topshop