At a time when Montreal was considered the “fashion capital” of Canada, Claude Bitton chose to come to Toronto with the vision that he would be a part of something great. He didn’t disappoint, Claude Bitton became one of the founding fathers of fashion and Haute Couture in Toronto introducing Nina Ricci, Thierry Mugler and Claude Montana to Hazelton Lanes in Yorkville.

Yorkville was founded in 1830 and named after the Town of York but is also known as “The Annex.” Yorkville was incorporated in 1853 and Annexed in 1883 by the City of Toronto.

“The Annex” is very well known for a variety of things, most notably it’s shopping. Claude Bitton was one of the first pioneers to have stores in Yorkville’s Hazelton Lanes. Being one of Canada’s most elite shopping areas, Yorkville houses many high end stores such as Prada, Gucci, Chanel, Hermes, Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, Coach, Burberry and many more boutiques. Claude Bitton imported and distributed merchandise for Nina Rici, Claude Montana and of course Hazelton Lanes.

Hazelton Lanes opened in 1976 at 60,000 square feet and by 1989 it had tripled its size due to the amount of esteemed retailers that wanted a store in the shopping plaza. Hazelton Lanes was quickly becoming known around the world as one of the most prestigious luxury shopping areas in North America. Today, Hazelton Lanes hosts 64 high-end boutiques that offer everything from fashion, jewellery and home décor.

When Claude Bitton moved to Toronto he sense it lacked culture. Although Claude Bitton knew Montreal was Canada’s Fashion capital he could see Torontonians were missing something – Haute Couture. Claude Bitton in late 1970’s introduce Haute Couture to Hazelton Lanes – Nina Ricci, Thierry Muglier and Claude Montana. Claude Bitton wanted Torontonians to experience fashion the way he had.