The air inside the Lighthouse Art Centre was alive with anticipation. Models, both seasoned and new, moved between mirrored walls, adjusting their poses, checking their outfits, and perfecting their walks in preparation for Halifax Fashion Week. The low hum of chatter filled the room — hopeful models exchanging tips, discussing casting calls, and talking about the latest industry news. Every now and then, the distinct click-clack of heels and shoes echoed through the space, punctuating the rhythm of practice.
In the midst of the controlled chaos, 16-year-old Ethan Horton strode with purpose, his tall frame cutting through the crowd, his focus on his next move. The young model’s posture and poise spoke volumes about the level of commitment he brings to the runway. His sharp features and intense gaze reflected the dedication of someone who, despite his age, is already making waves in the fashion world.
This October, Horton is set to head back to one of the biggest fashion hubs, walking for a second time in a show at Paris Fashion Week. A milestone that, for most, is years in the making.
To fund his upcoming trip to Paris, Horton is teaming up with local photographer Reginald Mahar for a community raffle. The prize? A full creative photoshoot with Mahar, whose photography is helping build Nova Scotia’s growing fashion scene. The two first connected through Mahar’s brother, a tattoo artist, and quickly developed a collaborative partnership
Mahar said that Horton is a natural, “and this young man is destined for great things.” Mahar hopes Nova Scotians rally behind him, “we need trailblazers like Ethan to prove to the next generation that no dream is too big or too crazy.”
The raffle is a true community effort. Businesses across the province have pitched in, offering prizes like a custom fireworks box from Fireworks FX, a tattoo certificate from Jay Mahar, a sterling silver jewelry set from House of Soli, and an assortment of handmade gifts from local artisans.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will go directly toward covering Horton’s travel expenses to Paris, where he is set to walk for A-Kith on Oct. 4. Looking ahead, Horton has big dreams to walk for Louis Vuitton, Calvin Klein, and Versace, and to one day grace the covers of Vogue Italia, GQ, and Elle Canada.
Tickets for the photoshoot raffle are available through Horton’s and Mahar’s social media platforms. The winner will be announced ahead of Horton’s fall trip to Paris.
“I started off, not many believed I was being serious about fashion,” Horton admits. “They did not realize it was different.” One of his first local runway shows followed by a photoshoot with designer Weiming Du led to name-calling. “The small-minded comments made me feel discouraged at first, and I didn’t want to post stuff online.”
But despite the early setbacks, Horton pressed forward. “Seeing the growth and the exposure…now, even my principal acknowledges me as a model, and that feels good.”
Horton’s rise within the Nova Scotia fashion scene has been swift, thanks to pivotal moments like landing his lead feature in the upcoming season of Fashionably Great on Eastlink TV, and bookings with notable brands like Nova Scotia Cookie Co., Khush Mizaj, and Moores. He’s been featured in Photo Vogue. His long-term goal is to make his mark in the four major markets.
“Models have to invest in themselves to see the return on their investment,” says his agent, Solitha Shortte. “They have to travel to the major markets for the chance to access opportunities to audition internationally. The goal is to get signed by an international agency, so they can have the ability to walk in major fashion shows and be a part of brand campaigns.”
“I’m from Coldbrook, where fashion wasn’t something you saw a lot of,” he says. “But I loved what I saw on TV and wanted to be a part of it. Fashion gave me a way to express myself, and it’s brought me closer to people and new friends.”
Now, with a growing network of supporters behind him, Horton is making Nova Scotia proud as he is on his way to break into the global fashion scene.
This article appears in Jul 1-31, 2025.