Sparkle and Pomp studio in the Beach fulfills longtime goal for owner Samantha Janetos

By JULIA SAWICKI

For years, Samantha Janetos built her fashion portfolio and business from wherever she could find space. A sewing machine in a backyard shed while fabric sat spread out on the dining room table. Projects moved from room to room, as she balanced creativity, work and family life.

Recently, all her work has come together under one roof.

Janetos opened up Sparkle and Pomp, a sewing and alterations studio on Queen Street East in the Beach, fulfilling a goal she had carried with her for years.

Growing up in Scarborough, Janetos was always surrounded by women that fostered and encouraged her love of design and fashion.

“Both my grandmothers and my mom sewed,” she said. “I was always hanging around them.”

That early exposure sparked a lifelong interest in clothing, eventually leading her to study fashion at Toronto Metropolitan University.

After graduating, she began working in the wedding industry, creating veils, accessories and other bridal pieces, showcasing a collection at Fashion Art Toronto in 2013. She also explored styling, working as a costume and wardrobe designer in the 2010 film, Uncle Brian. Eventually, Janetos began to be more drawn to the technical aspect of fashion as her career progressed, taking a deep interest in sewing and creating.

The idea for a proper shop had long been in the back of her mind after moving to the Upper Beach with her husband. She needed an organized area, something that was all her own. Anytime a space along Queen Street East opened up, she went out, before finally finding her perfect studio at 2305 Queen St. E. between Maclean Avenue and Glen Manor Drive.

Today, her work at Sparkle and Pomp still includes wedding dresses but extends all the way from large formal gown projects to small alterations that make her clients more confident and comfortable in their clothing.

Every project is one-of-a-kind, challenging in certain ways, easy in others, and completely unique to the taste and preferences of those that trust her with their garment. Every stitch and bead reflects the stories and lives of clients that step into her shop.

“It’s different every time. It never gets boring,” said Janetos.

For more information on Sparkle and Pomp, please visit https://www.sparkleandpomp.com/