Haliburton Clothing Co.

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What inspired you to start your business?

My sister-in-law mentioned that she could not find plain-cut, practical, ethically-made panties (whereas there are Canadian companies making underwear, it’s all either lacy, not full-coverage or impractical in some other way) and suggested this is something I could do. So it started with panties and expanded to a full line of women’s wear and some tops for men.

How would you describe your business?

I am a one-woman brand, so I do everything myself – no employees or contractors. I produce over 1000 pieces of clothing a year and another 1000+ of panties. People have a hard time believing this but it’s true, you can see lots of videos about my process and manufacturing on my website and socials. I learned to sew when I was 3, started making my own clothes from bought patterns at 8, and began making my own patterns at 12. At 23 I moved to Toronto to earn a diploma in Fashion Techniques and Design from George Brown College. Following that I worked 18 years freelancing for other designers, making their patterns and samples – I am have strong technical skills which a lot of designers lack. So that experience allows me to now design my own collection – my clothes are well-made, well-fitting, and stand up over time and washing.

What’s your bestselling product & why are they so popular?

Panties.

The fit – they actually stay on your bum. My customers say things like:

“I had no idea underwear could fit like this”

“It’s crazy how excited I get about underwear now”

“A lady in my fitness class said I have to get these for working out cause they don’t ride up!”

“My friend told me I have to get some of your underwear!”.

I carefully measure each elastic (legholes and waist) and join them before attaching them to the underwear, which allows me to keep the joint flat and off the side seam, eliminating the thick “nub” that most underwears have on the side seam (which gouges the hip). They are also all one piece – no seam in the crotch (I appliqué the gusset, and it is sewn down on both sides so it doesn’t ride up). And of course the materials and sewing methods I use will stand the test of time – you will be able to wear these once a week for three years (150 washes minimum).

What’s your favourite product from your own shop?

Probably my SC Pants. All my designs are carefully thought out to ensure you look good and feel comfortable, and my pants are pretty speical in this regard. They are cut like a trouser and can be dressed up or down so easily – these are the only pants I ever wear. But they feel like pyjama pants or leggings – the elastic waistband + stretch cotton fabric has so much give that there is no yoga pose you can’t do in my pants, and without your butt crack showing either! Total freedom of movement while still looking well put-together: my pants really do have it all. They’re not for people who like tight pants, but for those like me who would rather wear a trouser than a “skinny” cut, they’re usually back for another within the year.

What’s your favourite Ontario business?

Blackbird Pottery (she’s just down my road and makes the most gorgeous dishes!)