Love It or Hate It, the Canadian Tuxedo is Here to Stay

MasterCard Canada challenges Canadians to show their Canadian Tuxedo

TORONTO, Oct. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - Denim-on-denim has become affectionately known the world over as the "Canadian Tuxedo".  Though originally a poke at our style sense, the look's recent popularity suggests that maybe Canadians were simply ahead of the times. But sometimes even a classic needs updating, and as World MasterCard Fashion Week kicks off in Toronto, MasterCard Canada announced it is launching a contest challenging Canadians to update the Canadian Tuxedo.

Today also marks the start of Stylicity.  The official retail program for World MasterCard Fashion Week, Stylicity consists of a network of local retailers, spas and restaurants in Toronto presenting unique offers and experiences to MasterCard cardholders. Through the program, consumers can explore participating local and national merchants, both in-store and online, and receive exclusive offers. Stylicity runs from October 18 - November 3, 2013. Stylicity offers and rewards provide an enhanced shopping experience exclusive to MasterCard cardholders, further connecting consumers with their passions.

"World MasterCard Fashion Week is one of the most exciting weeks for the Canadian fashion industry.  We want to bring that sense of excitement to consumers through Stylicity, which gives Canadians unparalleled access to fashion and dining," said Milos Vranesevic, VP & Head of Marketing at MasterCard Canada. "With Stylicity, we're giving Canadians great incentive to find those hidden gems whether shopping online or in-person."

To demonstrate that Canadian style is so much more than denim, MasterCard Canada is inviting Canadians to redefine the Canadian Tuxedo. During the contest, Canadians can show off their fashion flare by posting a picture of their updated version of the Canadian Tuxedo to Twitter or Instagram. Photos will be collected and displayed on the MasterCard Stylicity website. A grand prize of one $2,000 MasterCard Prepaid Card will be awarded to one fashionable Canadian.

The Show us Your Canadian Tuxedo contest runs from October 18 - November 3, 2013.

For inspiration, Canadians can visit participating Sylicity merchants such as eLUXE.ca, M for Mendocino, m0851 and Philip, who have each redefined the Canadian Tuxedo in their own image of iconic Canadian fashion. See a full list of retailers participating in Stylicity here.

"We're excited to see how Canadians update the Canadian Tuxedo," said Jessica Kaplan, Brand Director, M for Mendocino.  "The M modern Canadian tuxedo is eco-friendly. Our tuxedo incorporates vegan leather pieces with a touch of plaid for an homage to the beauty of the Canadian outdoors."

Since launching in the fall of 2011, Stylicity has grown by more than 100% to include partnerships with more than 150 online and bricks and mortar retailers and restaurants. The Stylicity program provides an opportunity for partner retailers to showcase their brands and products to local and Canadian consumers with the support of MasterCard's national marketing channels, and drive in-store and online traffic.

About MasterCard Worldwide
MasterCard NYSE: MA, www.mastercard.com, is a technology company in the global payments industry. We operate the world's fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. MasterCard's products and solutions make everyday commerce activities - such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances - easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone. Follow us on Twitter @MasterCardNews, join the discussion on the Cashless Pioneers Blog and subscribe for the latest news on the Engagement Bureau.

Image with caption: "Canadian Tuxedo for MasterCard Stylicity redefined by merchant partner eLUXE.ca (CNW Group/MasterCard Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131018_C4883_PHOTO_EN_32199.jpg

Image with caption: "Canadian Tuxedo for MasterCard Stylicity redefined by merchant partner M for Mendocino (CNW Group/MasterCard Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131018_C4883_PHOTO_EN_32200.jpg

Image with caption: "Canadian Tuxedo for MasterCard Stylicity redefined by merchant partner m0851 (CNW Group/MasterCard Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131018_C4883_PHOTO_EN_32201.jpg

Image with caption: "Canadian Tuxedo for MasterCard Stylicity redefined by merchant partner Philip (CNW Group/MasterCard Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131018_C4883_PHOTO_EN_32202.jpg

SOURCE: MasterCard Canada

For further information:

Lauren Mostowyk
MasterCard Canada
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Leslie Jackson
Ketchum Public Relations for MasterCard
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