Fanciful Frieda
After graduating in 2005, up and coming Toronto designer Frieda Cordoba looks back fondly on her time at GBC and how it helped prepare her for a fashion filled future

As I sat down with Freida Cordoba in her small basement studio, she seemed shy and a bit nervous about being interviewed. After graduating in 2005 from GBC’s Fashion Techniques and Design Program, Freida never imagine that a few years later she would be interviewed by the school that has taught her so much of what she knows today. After some hot tea and small talk, I get to understand how she chose her path of fashion design, how she wound up at GBC, and what is in store for her in the future:

Q: At what age did fashion first start to interest you?
A: At the age 14 when I first saw Vera Wang on Fashion Television being interviewed by Jeanie Becker. She became one of my favourite designers. I am especially a fan of her ball gown dresses, so puffy and whimsical.

Q: Who inspired you to go into fashion in the first place?
A: My grandma. She was a seamstress in the Philippines. What inspired me the most was that she was never formally trained. She taught herself visually how to sew. She could spread out a piece of textile and draft the pattern just from looking at it. She used to baby sit me a lot when I was young, we were living in the same building. I would watch her all the time. The first thing she ever had me make was a pink [hair] scrunchie. She made me Barbie doll dresses, all my Halloween costumes, she is a very talented woman.

Q: Why did you choose GBC?
A: Well, it was between GBC and Ryerson. I felt that was much more hands on in terms of learning, which is exactly what I was looking for at the time. I also went to an orientation session for GBC which really finalized my decision. There were current students there who had set up displays of their designs and that was really inspiring. Also, I felt that GBC, with its shorter program, did not limit me or force me to make fashion design my sole career path. It was only 2 years, so if I wanted to do something afterwards, I still could without being 4 years in debt.

Q: What is your fondest memory at GBC?
A: Probably the GBC fashion show in my second year. I was tricked into going into the fashion show, I didn’t want to be in it because I’m a pretty shy person, but all of my friends were going into it. There was music, lights, make-up, it was something I had never experienced. It was my two minutes of fame and it was enough to get me hooked.

Q: Was there a particular class or teacher you felt taught you the most?
A: Yes, my teacher’s name was Julie, I don’t remember her last name, and she taught pattern drafting. I learned a lot from her, basically how to make skirts, pants, dresses, all the basics. She was very patient with her students and always optimistic.

Q: What was your absolute favourite class at GBC?
A: History of Costume – my favourite subject is history, so fashion and history combined together was perfect. And we had a project where we got to make a costume out of anything; pasta, pipe-cleaners, duct tape, you name it, we could use it. I made an Egyptian costume, a headdress made out of popsicle sticks and pasta and I painted it in gold. They put it on display in the fashion wing and come to think of it, I never got it back. I need to go pick it up! I loved that project!

Q: What advice would you have for potential GBC students who are deciding which college to choose?
A: GBC is a really good program. It’s really hands on and is a great starting point, or stepping stone, into fashion design. And since its only 2 years, if you still want to further your knowledge in fashion, you can. It gave me the basic, hands on knowledge that I needed to start designing. And it’s great because it’s a smaller school, so you get to know your teachers individually, and get a more personal experience.

Q: How have you been using your skills from GBC since your time there?
A: As you can see, I use a lot of my knowledge everyday from GBC. Even in my career, I currently work for H&M and I found it has helped a lot there, knowing all the textiles, and their designs also inspire me. I still sketch all the time, and in my time off, I still design and sew my own garments. I just wish I had more time.

Q: What would your dream career be?
A: To be a fashion designer, and have my own fashion house in Italy or New York. Or even maybe work for a fashion magazine, as stylist. I’m also interested in fashion PR too.

Q: Do you think that with the economic slump, that it will be difficult for GBC grads to find a job? A: I wouldn’t think so. I think there’s an opportunity here for students to announce Toronto as the centre of fashion in Canada. I know a lot of students in my class were very ambitious, and I’m still very ambitious. And GBC gives you the mentality that you will do well, which is great. There’s always going to be a place for fashion, and it’s always a stimulus for the economy. I don’t think people are going to stop shopping anytime soon.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration for your clothing designs?
A: Personally I want to have my designs reflect a particular Canadian viewpoint. I want my designs to be distinct so that Canadian fashion designers become recognizable in the world. I personally like Pink Tartan and Dagg & Stacey. But I also look to Stella McCartney, Versace, Moschino, Chloé, they are some of my personal favourites.

Q: What type of clothing line would you like to design in the future?
A: Something fashionable, sophisticated, yet accessible to Torontonians. I would probably start with a women’s line, eveningwear and sportswear would be my main focuses. But I also love designing cocktail dresses, things that are fun and flirty.

Q: Who is your favourite designer? Who inspires you the most?
A: Vera Wang was my first love. Ellie Saab is probably my favourite right now – mainly because the collections are all haute couture dresses that are absolutely inspirational. They are Oscar worthy, and it’s always fun to dream about one day dressing a celebrity. I love their fabrics, intricate cuts and styles, and all the details to their dresses.

Q: Why did you decide to get a university degree after completing GBC?
A: Because I didn’t want to start working! [laughter]. Mainly because at the time, I felt a college degree just wasn’t enough for me. I wanted to expand my knowledge in design. I’m also very passionate about history and wanted to gain more knowledge on a more academic level, to combine it with my hands on skills. I decided to take art history to broaden my view of art throughout the world and throughout history, and I also major in Italian. So who knows, this could be my start to my fashion house in Italy. Furthering my knowledge of art history also inspired me to make more designs and to be more aware of where fashion has come from. I like to base my designs on paintings, sculptures, any work of art that inspires me.

Q: So after university, where will you go from there?
A: I want to possibly start my own business, using the knowledge that I have gained from all of my education, network myself, and hopefully one day I can show at LG Fashion Week.

Q: So, would you ever go on Project Runway Canada?
A: I don’t think so. I couldn’t handle that sort of pressure. And I’m too shy to go on TV! I prefer to be in the background, backstage, working on my designs. It seems like too much drama!

Although we may not see Freida on TV anytime soon, we will surely be seeing her designs in the near future!

Oh, George! Vol. V No. II

Going Hog-Wild Over Stylehog.com
Julia Seidl, Creator of Stylehog.com, Talks Luxury for Less,
Tips on Trends, and Apparel Industry Advice

In these times of uncertainty regarding the economy, yes I know you are all probably sick and tired of hearing about the recession, it has become a challenge to feed our appetite for purchasing new garments. How on earth can we still be fashion savvy without breaking the bank? That’s when I realised that Julia Seidl, owner of fashion website and blog Stylehog.com, could help us out a little. Julia is a commerce graduate from the University of Western Ontario and George Brown post-graduate for International Fashion Management with an abundance of knowledge in the fashion industry. Through her experiences at Jones Apparel Group and working closely with such brands as Betsey Johnson, BCBG, Roots, Holt Renfrew, and many others, Julia has become an expert when it comes to seeking out the latest trends. “My frustrations with reading fashion magazines and constantly being confronted with photo spreads featuring outfits worth thousands of dollars really had me thinking. I knew that it was possible to replicate these looks for less and I wanted to show other women how to do so. And so Stylehog.com was born!”

Beginning merely as a hobby in 2007, Julia turned Stylehog.com into a real business in spring 2008. “Stylehog.com is a place where women can go to learn about the latest runway trends AND find out where they can buy these trends at prices they can afford. I want to show women that they too can look like they’ve stepped off of the pages of Vogue without breaking their bank. Especially now with the state of the economy, it is important that women know that they can keep their style intact while saving some cash along the way”, says Julia about her website. Julia’s love of fashion and strong work ethics are what she believes makes her so well-suited for this endeavour. As far as major challenges go, time management is something she struggles with...as would anyone working in such a fast-paced industry.

Now, I couldn’t interview Julia Seidl without asking for her expertise on the subject of spring 2009’s upcoming trends and where exactly to find these affordable fashions. H&M is at the top of her list, where students on a budget can find great prices on runway trends, though Julia is hoping UK’s Topshop, which she claims has the best inexpensive fashions in the world, will be on its way to Canada soon (for now you can shop online at www.topshop.com). Julia also recommends visiting vintage stores because “not only are the prices so great, but since many trends are recycled over time, you can really find great pieces like a boyfriend blazer (try a men’s suit jacket or tuxedo jacket) or platform sandal for under $20. And they usually have a great selection of jewellery (chunky necklaces and bangles) and clutches.” Frequenting these places would be a great way to pick up a few inexpensive accessories in order to quickly update your wardrobe for spring; “accessorizing is the key to changing your style. It’s amazing how a necklace or belt can really change the look of an outfit. [They] let you work with pieces you already have in your closet and transform those pieces into something totally fresh and new.” She suggests brightly coloured waist belts, stacks of wooden or Lucite bangles, or chandelier earrings. When asked what the must-have items for spring are, Julia noted that python accessories, found inexpensively at The Bay or H&M, and having a great new pair of pants, whether dhoti, pyjama, harem, or peg legged from Zara, will allow you to enter to spring season with style. When asked what fashion item Julia just couldn’t bear to live without, she replied, “I can’t live without a great pair of heels. I feel more confident in heels and have trained myself to ignore the pain that comes with a day spent running around Toronto in 4 inch heels.” She also admits that at times she gets a little too excited with her accessories, but sees it as crafting her own personal style rather than breaking the over accessorizing rule, “Fashion is supposed to be about having fun so if you break a style rule every once in a while, so be it. At least you fun had while doing it!”

After Julia graciously shared her expertise on the latest fashion trends, I was eager to learn a little more about the website, itself. Ms. Seidl told me that she, along with Stylehog.com’s style director Arielle Paech, is eager to grow their Canadian readership and would eventually like to include a men’s section. I’d say they are well along their way to achieving their goal in reaching as many Canadian women as they can, and bringing them “the latest and the greatest in fashion news, trends and advice”.

....

I realise that most of you who are reading this article are about to embark the fashion world, so after letting Julia know that this interview will be seen by many students looking to pursue occupations in the industry, she gave us some words of wisdom; “Interning with a company you could see yourself working for in the future is a great way to get your foot in the door and to show that company you are serious about pursuing a career in fashion. You most likely won’t get paid but the experience and contacts you’ll make are priceless.” This is advice won’t be taken lightly, along with her suggestions to do research upon any opportunity, and to take note that fashion is not just entertainment, it’s a business. “Make sure you stay abreast of the latest news in the industry and read as much as you can about the apparel industry. Do your homework!” After hearing about all the tips and trends from Julia, I can’t wait to go home and further explore Stylehog.com!

I Love Myself Today. Not Like Yesterday

It’s what’s on the inside that matters. That’s what we are told by everyone whenever we are feeling bad about our appearance; whether it’s the continuous wearing of winter hats that causes us to have a bad hair day, the late nights of partying that left us with dark puffy eyes the morning after or the one too many servings of turkey and stuffing over the holidays that caused us to gain a few extra pounds making our clothes just a little bit too snug in all the wrong places. When all of these things happen, we don’t care what’s on the inside because its what’s on the outside that everyone sees. But in the fashion industry, the opposite is more important. It’s what‘s on the outside that matters. From being too skinny to being too overweight, they are at a constant battle with the industry just to be accepted that it’s hard to tell what “counts” anymore.
Celebrity Skin
When we are flipping through magazines it is not the ads of plus size models in lingerie that makes us take a second look but the ads of the supermodels in string bikinis that make us stop the page turning for a second and wonder where to shop for such items, even if we won’t look the same wearing it. In a study done at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, it was shown that women would rather see a skinny woman in an ad, even if it makes her feel bad about herself. When shown ads with plus sized models in them, the women still liked the products but not as much as the ones being advertised by the skinnier ones. Women have been brainwashed into thinking that only skinny is beautiful and if your above a certain weight then your less attractive and lower class.
Skinny Minnie
When a model or celebrity is “too skinny”, people tend to label them as “drug users” or think they must have an eating disorder to obtain such rail like features. There are the exceptions of a few that sometimes this is true but a lot of these models work hard to get the figures they have through exercise and diet. But because of all the models and celebrities that are going about it the wrong way we judge them all as we skim through magazines and browse fashion ads and we think their all anorexic or have done one two many rails in their days on the party train.
Suck It In Princess
And then there is the whole other side to it. When models and celebrities start to gain a little weight it is never overlooked. Everyone is allowed a little weight gain once in a while but if a model or celebrity does, they are picked apart and criticized for it until they become so ashamed of themselves that they go into exercise overload to get their body back to the acceptable weight of the publics eye. Recently Jessica Simpson has been at centre stage on the bloggers list due to that fact that she has become, once again, a little too curvy for their liking. She is still a beautiful woman and has fans around the world still buying her music and attending her concerts but because she gained some weight she is now on the don’t list of every fashion magazine out there.
I Wanna Be Like Me
Either way you look at it we are judging them on their appearance and what size their body is. We criticize them when they are skinny and we criticize them when they are a little overweight. And then we subconsciously decide the quality of a product depending on the size of the model selling it. We look to models and celebrities for inspiration, style and keen fashion sense and then put them down when their appearance and weight isn’t perfect. When we have a bad day and don’t look our best we are told not to worry and that nobody cares. When will be the day that it’s ok for everyone to not worry if their not perfect? When will be that day that the rule goes for everyone, “it’s what’s on the inside that counts?”

Divine Bovine

Who’s The Bos?

Are you part of a conspiracy for murder or are you just being fashionable? Some segments of the fashion world have been at war for years with animal activist groups. The subject for battle involves rights and ethics towards incorporating animals into attire. Debates and discussions kindle and burn for hours over ‘fur in fashion’. Opinions generated by this argument usually boil down to one of sympathy and empathy. However, when examining the leather industry and their fight with animal rights group’s different views are approached. Is leather a product of cruelty or a product of renewal?

‘Steer Clear of Cruelty’
Some boycott the purchase of leather products, which is fine. The idea of saving animals lives may help you sleep better at night. Maybe it will give you the feeling that you have made a difference. Or maybe you’ve gone Vegan to show the healthy humanitarian in you. Whatever waves your flag. The very thought of how some of these animals are treated can be unsettling. These cows can be subjected to muddy grazing fields, cruel crowd control from the farmers and uncomfortable living quarters. The lifestyle of a cow is not glamorous by any means. To increase milk production some farmers inject their cows with hormone enhancing drugs. The side effects are painful and grueling on the animals. Infected utters, deformed calf’s and calcium deficiencies can lead to poor production and premature death amongst the cows. Luckily it’s not the entire farming industry that is guilty for using these cruel practices. Further more there is not a clear link between the leather industry and the cruelty towards cows.

If you happen to still be unsure of what side of the fence you sit on for this matter, here are three ways to enjoy the beauty of leather while still sustaining your moral codes. The first method is a developing trend in the fashion business that involves recycling. Recycling leather is a way of gathering and sorting grades of leather so they can be used for other uses. This method cuts back on the amount of waste from leather that is sent to our landfills. The scraps and off cuts of the recycled leather is then produced into a new design, giving life to a new style of garment.

The second way to enjoy leather is by catering towards a trend of the 21st Century. The popularity of vintage clothing is quite astounding. Neglected boots and jackets are collected and put up for sale in numerous stores. Each article waits patiently for its new owner to come along and give it new life. This method allows you to enjoy the outlandish designs of past generations. Interestingly enough the older the leather, the more stress its been through. Like a human face every line tells a story, vintage leather is no different.

The last way to enjoy your leather guilt free is to do what a man from HappyCow.com does. He doesn’t eat meat and he doesn’t kill cows, however, he makes a living making leather goods. His prided company only uses cows that have died form natural causes. The logistics of this last method are complicated and unrealistic unless you live on a farm or have your own leather processing equipment. Regardless, these three ways can help you avoid any guilt or remorse you may have about wearing leather.

Cow bad is it?
It is not surprising that certain cultures around the globe identify bovine creatures as sacred animals. The amount of resources a simple cow can produce is mind blowing. The undermined fact of this leather issue is that leather is a by-product of the cow. What this means is that an entire cow is not sacrificed for one piece of leather. The case is quite different. The number one purpose of most cows is to live a full life of producing milk. The second purpose is for beef products. Most humans depend on beef for a source of food. After our grocery stores are filled with beef there is still use left of the cow. Fatty and steric acids from the animal are used for lubricants, cosmetics, dyes and prints. Many gelatinated products are produced from the bones and other internal parts of the cow. An industry that widely benefits from these by-products is the pharmaceutical industry. Gel capsules, iron supplements and a variety of other medications derive from parts of their organs.

When we are left with a slab of skin it seems pretty wasteful to just toss it in the garbage. What can we do? Learn from our First Nations people. Leather dates back to when Natives started processing leather to make products that would guard themselves form the elements. The resourcefulness of these people is what created an industry. When they killed a bovine animal they would get as much use of it as they could. They would eat it, use the fat as oil and use the bones as weapons. All that would be left is the skin; from there they would process the skin and use it for blankets, shelter and protection.
Is the issue more legible? Is wearing leather still just a primitive act for humans? Will you think any differently when you spot that leather hyde draped over a persons back. The question you have to ask yourself in the end is whether it is a sin to kill? Or is it a sin to waste something that’s already been killed?

From A to Zoran...

George Brown Instructor Zoran Dobric Shows Toronto His Talent!

Zoran Dobric is definitely a Toronto designer to watch! Earning his Bachelor degree in Fashion Design at the University of Manitoba, he then went on to study at the Instituto Marangoni in Milan, where he studied fashion illustration and gained impressive skills combining Photoshop techniques with more traditional ones. From Serbian descent Zoran Dobric, now, at age thirty-three, has worked with such companies as Urban Behaviour, Costa Blanca and Club Monaco. Teaching young fashion students of George Brown College the tricks of Adobe Illustrator on the side he is now designing under his own label. His designs are sold around the world - found in boutiques in Hong Kong, Boston, New York, San Francisco and in our very own Toronto. He designs for a very individualistic, intellectual and artistic type, who can appreciate his many artistic influences. Oh George! sat down with Zoran to take a peek into the whirl-wind life of an up and coming Canadian designer.

Oh George!: How long have you been designing your own label?
Zoran Dobric: I have been designing my own label since 2005

OG!: In the past you have designed for other companies, and now you're designing on your own. Which do you prefer and why did you decide to switch?
ZD: I prefer to design for my own label as it is more creative, but working for other companies is great too since you have risk-free pay cheques on a regular basis. When you are on your own there is a lot of risk and hard work involved.

OG!: You're still a relatively new label. What are your aspirations for the future of the Zoran Dobric label? What do you hope to accomplish?
ZD: My aspirations for my label would be to start selling in Europe, in addition to China, Canada and the USA where I'm already selling at several stores. I also want to grow the business to the next level.

OG!: You have a very strong artistic look. Do you design with a specific woman and man in mind? What are they like?
ZD: They are very individualistic, and have very intellectual and artistic tastes. It's more about the attitudes than the age.

OG!: You've shown at LG Fashion Week in the past few seasons. Are you planning on showing this March?
ZD: I am probably showing this March, I am almost certain.
OG!: Why do you choose to show?
ZD: It is good exposure, in order to generate interest with the media and buyers.
OG!: Do you find that this kind of media attention has a positive impact on your label?
ZD: Media coverage does not always translate into the sales directly or immediately, but it can help with brand awareness with the customers and the media in the long run.

OG!: Is showing at LG Fashion Week a stressful process? Do you ever worry about how your collection will be received?
ZD: You always have to worry since you never know what might go wrong, and because I am a bit of a control freak who wants everything perfect. There's a lot to be excited about also, since everything will come together and will hopefully look as I envisioned on the runway.

OG!: What's your inspiration for your f/w 09/10 collections? Tell us a bit about it. What can we expect?
ZD: The starting point for my f/w 09/10 collections were landscapes by Gustav Klimt. Also mixed with influences from music such as Technotronic, Hip Hop and Electroclash...It will be a crazy mix of influences.

OG!: You’ve said in the past that you design your own prints. What is your process? Why do you choose to do this yourself? Do you enjoy it?
ZD: Since I enjoy it so much, I create all of my prints that are screen printed or digitally printed. I start by doing the artwork in the computer or by hand, I then develop it in the Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator.

OG!: Where can people purchase your designs?
ZD: You can find a list of stores that carry my designs online at www.zorandobric.com. I can also be contacted at info@zorandobric.com

six feet tall. twenty-eight inch waist. male

Are today’s androgynous trends setting an unhealthy standard for male models, or is the shrinking size of the male model lighting the path for androgynous fashions?

With spring fashion weeks taking place all over the world fashion connoisseurs are sitting on the edges of their seats to see what treats their favourite designers will be offering them in terms of trends. In the past few years we have witnessed the growing trend of androgyny among ladies and men’s fashions as well as male and female models. Hedi Slimane can be said to have pioneered the skinny male model revolution. Once he joined the Dior Homme team he began to promote the stick thin figure among male models, and the clothing was made correspondingly. This was something new and different, and after some time suits designed for the more muscular male models began to look boxy and frumpy in comparison. This can be viewed as the turning point in the physical structure for the male model.
Though the current trend among male models is controversial, it took years for anyone to do anything about the staggeringly thin females. It wasn’t until the year 2008 that the Council of Fashion Designers of America called a conference to discuss the issue, and this was right around the time that the skinniest of the male models began strutting their stuff on catwalks around the world.
Though the models of today’s fashion industry tend to lead extremely glamorous and exciting lives, one has to take into account what they are actually in the industry for. They are simply the bodies of a fashion show meant to showcase the clothing. The type of model chosen to show off the work of fashion designers is meant to showcase the trends.
As all of us are painfully aware, not every trend is made for every person and the trend of today is that of androgyny. We are seeing skin-tight jeans on both ladies and men. We are seeing over sized plaids on men and women. Clothing companies that specialize in unisex clothing such as Cheap Monday have spiked in popularity. Doesn’t it make sense for the men to have similar body types to their female counterparts, totally based on the fact that they are supposed to be showcasing fashions made for both the woman and the man?
Due to the glamorization of being a model through reality television shows such as “America’s Next Top Model” people are taking an almost unhealthy interest in the physical appearance of models, when what we should really be watching is the fashions they are wearing. Right now, the message that designers are trying to send us is that ‘androgyny is in.’ We’re not meant to think too much into it, we’re supposed to wear it as best we can, and call it a day. We’re not mean to become obsessed with the models wearing the clothes. Though many criticize the shrinking frames of male models, couldn’t this also be viewed as the skinny boy’s time to shine?
On the other hand, 10 straight women were asked their thought on skinny male models. When asked what their ideal male counter part would look like, 9 out of 10 said that they would prefer someone of an athletic build who was in shape, but not considered “skinny”. The same 9 out of 10 women also said that they would prefer it if their male counterpart was larger than them. This goes to show that although the fashion industry may be promoting one look, it doesn’t necessarily correlate with how people feel about physical beauty.
Another issue to investigate is that along with the skinny male model comes a spike in male eating disorders. When eating disorders first came to the public eye, they were viewed as something that usually only affected women. Now many men have come out of the closet, so to speak, claiming that they too are have fallen victim to the pressures of being thin.
Though some male athletes have said that the pressure to be in peak condition is something that spiked an eating disorders among them, many male models have been instructed to drop muscle and appear “leaner”. There are only so many ways to do this, and the most obvious is to cut the intake of your calories, and up the amount that you burn. Its simply science, but also, this can develop into a potentially fatal physiological disorders such as anorexia, or bulimia.
These disorders have been flagging women for decades, and there have been notable incidents where female models have actually died from them. It is a societal obligation for us to do everything in our power to make sure that our male models don’t walk down the same path.
Throughout the history of fashion, the appearance of models has been something that has fascinated us, and has given some an ideal to struggle for, but its always been something out of the ordinary. Weather it was a tanned beefcake who looks like he lives at the gym, or it’s a waiflike man who stands at 6ft and has a 28 inch waist seems to depend on the current fashion trends.

A PRECIOUS STONE

Camille Stone is an up-and-coming jewellery designer from the heart of George Brown, hoping that her jewellery pieces will make her way into your heart. Starting her creativity when she was young, Camille has channelled her imaginative designs into something real. Oh George! interviewed Camille and looks into her inspiration and the key to success.

OG! Explain your company:
Camille: Now, it is not so much a company as it is a hobby. I want to have a company one day, but I am using my pre-company time to experiment and develop my designs and skills. I feel like I still have a long way to go until I am at a level where I feel I can build a dominant company. Now, I am just creating prototypes and playing around with different materials until I find my forte.
Jewellery is only one category that I wish to design, as I strive to one day have a brand that carries casual wear, dresses, handbags, accessories and jewellery. My foundation will be my ethical conduct and socially responsible strategy, mixed with innovative and luxurious designs.

OG! Where/ when and why did you start?
Camille: When I was young, I would always make friendship bracelets and would learn different braiding techniques from camp. It got serious when I started making jewellery in a fashion design class in High school. I always wanted to design clothing, but It wasn't until I decided to make jewellery to go with all my outfits that I realized I was obsessed. I sold my pieces at the Orillia Farmer's Market every Saturday, and to all my visiting friends and family.

OG! Where do you get your inspiration?
Camille: Right now I get most of my inspiration from other people's jewellery. Since I am very far from knowing how to make everything, I study different jewellery pieces to try to figure out how they are made, then make a similar piece that is more to my liking. I am heavily influenced by different cultures and religions which have many different beautiful designs and techniques.
Last summer I had a relative from India live with us for 2 months, and I would get her to show me all her jewellery. Just a few pieces of hers inspired at least 50 of my current pieces.

OG! What materials do you use and where do you get them?
Camille: Currently, I am using beads until I learn how to work with precious metals and stones. I use a lot of Swarovski crystals and glass pearls which I get from bead shops. Although lately I have been mad about wood, charms, feathers and suede. I am learning how to use unconventional jewellery materials to make unique pieces. Some of my pieces for the summer will include fabric earrings, bib style necklaces and fabric bracelets. I am also learning how to combine jewellery right into my clothing pieces.

OG! Why should people buy your jewellery? What is your competitive advantage?
Camille: My main competitive advantage is my price! I do not have much overhead because it is just a hobby right now, so I can afford to sell my pieces at a price that students can afford. Most of my pieces are just experiments so people are sure to find unique pieces too!
In the future, my competitive advantage will be more centered on high quality, luxurious materials, innovative design and investing in something that improves the living conditions of others. I really want to have my company create a structure that makes people's quality of life much better by working for me.

OG! What is the hardest part of what you do?
Camille: Dreaming up beautiful designs and not knowing how on earth to make them yet. It is very frustrating. I definitely need more training to get to where I want to be. I constantly want to make better pieces, but its like hitting a brick wall when you don't know how to do certain techniques. I am confident that through workshops and time that I will eventually get to where my mind is free and I am liberated to make anything that my mind can think of.

OG! What is the most enjoyable part?
Camille: The most enjoyable part is seeing other people enjoy my pieces. It is always sad to see them go because most of them are one of a kind, but it brings me so much joy when i see that people feel beautiful wearing them. I know that they are just material things, but there really is a deep and spiritual exchange of energy that happens between an artist and an admirer. The artist gives the admirer inspiration and beauty while the admirer gives the artist joy and motivation. They truly take away a piece of each other. This exchange is very profound, and is never mimicked by cheap, mass produced, commercial exchanges.

OG! What do you hope to accomplish in coming years?
Camille: I hope to learn how to make anything I can dream of, and then I hope to build a company that makes not only my dreams come true, but the hopes and dreams of others. I really want people to work with me, not just for me.

OG! What was the worst experience you've had with your business so far?
Camille: Not being able to take on certain ventures because I am in school. Sometimes great opportunities come along, but school has to come first. I just have to remember that I am not here to make it big with the jewellery I am currently making right now, I want to make it big with my future designs. I have to develop my own innovative designs at a level I am satisfied with before I go and try to make big things happen.

OG! What is the best advice you've been given?
Camille: The formula for success is 50% hard work and 50% luck!

OG! Where can people find your work?
Camille: Right now George Brown students can find my pieces at City Downtown. Some jewellery is also available at camillestone.etsy.com.

Urgent Re: Feature Article Assignment

Today in class the details for the Feature Article Assignment (25%) were handed out; if you did not receive them, please contact the prof at cadmus(at)interlog(dot)com, as there will be no class on Monday the 16th or Monday the 23rd. The assignment is due the following week, Monday the 1st.

Please also note that there is an in-class quiz (15%) on March 1.

The five service pieces that will be published in the magazine are:

• Urban Removal


• Even Cowgirls Get the Blues


• Top Cues for Hues


• Spring Primping


• Reel 'Em In

The authors of thoese five pieces should enter the changes suggested in the graded version of the work and email it to the prof at the address given above. Thanks!

Spring Primping... Feeling Lux For Less

It’s that blissful time of year again! But before you slip into your favorite spring dress, and open toe shoes, you may want to consider doing some body maintenance first.

Put Your Best Foot Forward
Before you decide to put on any piece of footwear that may expose your post winter feet you may want to think again. If you’re like many people you probably haven’t treated your feet to a pedicure in a long while. After all we do live in Canada and there’s not much chance that anyone’s going to catch a glimpse of your tootsies during the winter months. But with the long awaited arrival of spring you may want to treat your neglected tippy toes for a much needed pedicure. If you’re a do it yourself kind of gal, you can pick up the Lavender Bubbly Foot Collection at home pedi kit from Yyves Rocher for $22 (www.yvesrocher.ca), or you could book an appointment at Lucy Nail (3065 Dundas St.) where a pedicure and manicure combo will cost you only $25.

Your Epidermis is Showing
Shedding your dry winter skin is easy! But sometimes natural skin exfoliation needs assistance. If you have dry skin, dead skin accumulates quickly creating a dull appearance, and if you’re a victim of oily skin the skin has difficulty exfoliating or sloughing off the dead skin cells, due to the sticky nature of oil. Moisturizing often is definitely a good way to get your skin silky but most of us forget the most important step to skin rejuvenation. Exfoliating is a great way to give your skin a dewy glow, and if done regularly it can actually increase the skin's capacity to absorb moisture. The Body Shop’s Satsuma body scrub ($20.00) will leave your skin feeling, looking, and smelling amazing. Sephora’s in house brand also offers their own line of body scrubs at an affordable $12 to $16 and comes in a variety of delightful scents.

Get Glowing
New alternative ways of getting a sun kissed glow are much better for your skin than the real thing. It’s not quite beach season, but if you’re eager to get bronze, a self tanning cream is your best and safest bet. The world of self tanning lotions has come a long way and consumers no longer have to worry about turning a shade of orange and getting unsightly streaks. L’Oreal Sublime tanning lotion, offers a gradual tanning cream, and it leaves your skin smelling like the beach! (Shoppers Drug Mart, 15.99)

Use Protection
You hear about it all the time. Wear SPF, no matter what. Many of us have SPF in out facial moisturizers, but often the amount offered is not enough. Getting a good SPF is the most important thing you can do for your skin hands down. Look for a non greasy formula that has lasting power, with an SPF 30 or higher. Ombrelle offers a great line of sun protection products specifically for the body and face, which shields you against harmful UVA AND UVB rays. It’s available at Wal-Mart, Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharma Plus, and Loblaws.

All That Glisters is Not Gold…

Forget ‘sun kissed’, become more intimate with the sun.

Tanning season is just around the corner ladies and gentlemen, after a winter that felt more like an ice age, everybody’s coming out of hibernation and getting ready to soak up every last drop of the sun!
Here are a few pointers to not only get that body glittering in gold and bronze shades, but also how to maintain and enjoy the fruit of your labor for so much longer.
First and foremost don’t waste precious time tanning skin that will only flake off in a few days or weeks. Exfoliate before every single tanning session; get rid of all those dead skin cells, and remove any impurities to allow your skin to breathe. There are great shower gels, and beauty bars out there with exfoliating micro beads to get rid of that dead skin, and prepare your body to capture the essence of the sun. A great one is Dove Pro-age bar, it prevents signs of aging skin, contains moisturizers, as well as those great micro beads. It’s an all-in-one wonder! Your skin is a canvas, and the sun is the artist!
Now skeptics listen up this is for you, always invest in a good tanning lotion, they are not scams. These potions are specially formulated to capture those precious rays, and protect your skin at the same time. There is an incredible variety; some even have added bronzer, to get an instant “tan” while you build up your real one! So explore your options, and don’t settle. Also, remember to always keep track of how long you’ve been in the sun, the number one thing you want to avoid is burning; it’s tremendous damage to the skin! It speeds up aging, giving you wrinkles and diminishes your tan prematurely; you need to wait to heal before you can tan again, and once you have healed the tanning process needs to start over again.
A great tip to achieve a tan quicker is to keep active, get blood moving in your body. It is best to enjoy physical activities before a tanning session, as the increased blood flow promotes the production of melanin a lot faster.
Ok so the only time you can say ‘never’! NEVER forget to moisturize it’s the key to making that beautiful golden tan last. Dry skin is flaking skin, and the flaking is coming from all of that hard work you put into that gorgeous golden body. A rich moisturizer will not only soothe the skin after a tanning session, but also restore whatever moisture that escaped throughout the day. This area has got some great options to choose from. Since you’re already moisturizing why not get a lotion that also treats cellulite, tightening skin and helping restore any damage from the past, or one with self tanner in it that gives a very subtle and gradual tint as the days pass. Building your tan and your tan at the same time!
So sun-worshippers go and make the transition from ice age to golden age!

A NEW ERA

A NEW ERA

Right now in fashion anything goes.
Say bye bye to typical trends


From New York to Milan the collections seen on the runways for spring/summer 2009 have been influenced by headlines of the looming economy, but economy crisis or not, the shows went on. From New York to Milan designers such as; Chanel, Roberto Cavalli, Marc Jacobs, Alexander McQueen and many others have all produced real-life notions, including fresh takes on dressed-up war time colours and designers ,going for plain and sophistication,. Here are the season's top trends

AWhite Page
Chanel won't let the fashion spirit be dampened by anything as unchic as a credit crunch

At Paris fashion week no major new trends born or big statements made, just proof of how wearable and varied the Chanel woman can be. Chanel has gone back to the basic and practicality of dressing. Cashmere twin sets, gorgeous pleated white blouses with black ribbons at the empire line and delicious chiffon tops that were finely embroidered .It was happy sophistication, the image Chanel created was a clear any grey mood.
AT WAR
There is no right or wrong when it comes to fashion.

Marc Jacobs is a prime example of that .At New York fashion week Marc Jacobs choose to bring back lesson in American history with- feminist and social influence in his collection. That would be due to his creative use of lavishing colours embellished touches , which included bustles, ruffled suffragette skirts, pant suits, Dust Bowl-era floral appliqués , plaid blouses and accessorized flattened Twenties straw boaters, Rosie the Riveter-style do-rags, bold gold jewellery and very fanciful shoes and purses.
Nude
It's nakedness but is sure is powerful

Designer Roberto Cavalli has a clever knack of tempting women to look sexy and chic; he helps women too celebrate their female power over men. Mini dresses with stiff corsets that looked as if they were hand-painted with baroque illustrations, and bustles at the back. One featured a peacock print and was followed by a line-up of more fluid chiffon dresses that hung from single halter strands in neon prints of green and yellow, pink and turquoise or black and white.

UN-Natural
Everyone has a little animal in them
Alexander McQueen's spring/summer 2009 collection was influenced by the animal kingdom. Alligator skin corset belts that freed silk robes to burst forth into bloomer pants and fluid silk uppers and an occasional flash of zebra print , but more references were even more beautiful such as; fine silk tassels looped around the body in degrades of black to grey and pink. His creations were simply beautiful and unique.

Mixed Messages

Clothing says a lot about an individual. Fashion is a way to describe your self in ways that words can’t. Providing a professional and appropriate look is key in the workplace, but others seem to disagree. Whether it’s because they want to dress to impress, or mix inappropriate fashion with work attire.


Fit the Part

Try to look your best; you want to make a lasting impression. Wear an appropriate skirt, blouse, jacket, and dress shoes. Your hair should be neat and out of your face. Keep makeup simple and
use neutral colors. Dress for success.


Your nails should always be clean. Nails shouldn't be extremely long, polished in a neutral color is appropriate.

Sandals are never appropriate, wear closed-toe shoes. Stick with a conservative style. Women should not wear super high heels to work, wear a small heel or simple shoe. Keep your shoes in good condition.

Wearing large earrings or thick chains are overwhelming. Be simple.

There is nothing wrong with being fashionable, or showing your sense of style. This depends on where you work and whom you work with. Keep your style balanced. Don’t wear too much and don’t be too boring. Looking good will make you feel good, it will show that you are dedicated to your job.



The Final Cut

If you dress unacceptable you wont be take seriously for your job, no matter how skilled a person may be.Work is a place to represent your company and there ideas, not your own perspective. Be certain that your clothing choices properly reflect the event or location you are about to attend. If you require a lot of communication in your job you must look professional, or else you won’t be taken as professional.
Cover up tattoos and body jewelry. Wearing low cut shirts and short skirts are very inappropriate. This will cause inappropriate attention, and maybe even lead to sexual harassment. Don’t make yourself look available; others will assume that you do not take your responsibilities seriously.


Dressing too sexual or looking too casual in a business setting is inappropriate. Either choices show that an individual is not showing consideration for the company grooming standards. Take care of your appearance, feeling and looking clean is essential.


Dress Professional When You Have To

Keep in mind, you don't have to give up your sexy attire altogether--you can save your style for the evenings, weekends and holidays. You'll be glad to expressing yourself at the right time rather than at work where your coworkers may take offense. If you are unsure of what is inappropriate for work find out by reading the employer's dress code, or observe other employees.