So maybe the girl has perfect skin, silky hair and a great body. But what about the clothes she wears? “You have a better life if you wear impressive clothes.”- Vivienne Westwood once said. So whether it’s a date with a really hot boy or going out for lunch with the girls, there is an outfit for that. Here are 5 luminous pieces every girl should have in her closet.
Tailor made: Blue Jeans
So jeans can be the hardest thing to shop for. They either don’t fit you right or they fit too tight. But girls always have one pair that they adore, cherish, LOVE! They make the girl feel sexy, and confident. A pair of dark wash, skinny’s or boot cut always win first place. Pair them with a pair of flats for a casual look or take out those stilettos for a more sophisticated look. Either way, bring on those compliments!
Put your best V forward: V-neck tees
You wake up in the morning, 10min to get ready and your world is crashing to a halt. You don’t know what to wear and now you have 8min. Solution? Pick out your favorite tee, but not your ordinary plain t-shirt, go with your v-neck to add a bit more, attitude. Pair it with your favorite jeans, shorts or even leggings and your good to go with just minutes to spare.
Belle Noir: Little black dress
Every girl knows your little black dress can’t hurt anyone. Whether you're Evelyn Mulwray from the movie Chinatown(1974), wearing a black dress with crimson lipstick and sexy heels to seduce your enemy’s or your Kristen Stewart modeling a little black dress in Vogue with a pair of chucks. Whichever way, your little black dress cannot disappoint you.
Bottomless pit: A big purse
Wallet, make-up, gum, lip gloss, cell phone, iPod, tampons, nail filer, cigarettes, mirror, receipts, snacks and the list goes on. Fit all your essentials into one big purse! What every girl needs for a great accessory! Be bold and flashy with bright neon colours for your simple v-neck and jeans or match a neutral bag with stripes and tights.
The “F” word: Flats
Heels are the bad boys that never last and flats are the good boys we want to keep. And really, how many girls last in a relationship with someone called 5 inch? Flats are more practical and fun, comfortable yet fashionable. Pair them with any old jeans or spice it up with your favorite dress. They have equal or even more variety then heels does using creative designs (E.g. bows, sparkles, studs, ruffle etc) in all the colours of the rainbow. Step aside Barbie, Ken has had enough.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Ruffle Some Feathers
There’s nothing fowl about this flirty fashion. Twitter isn’t the only way to express yourself this season. Add one of these four tweet-worthy trends to your wardrobe.
Feathered Frocks
Feathered dresses don’t have to turn into fashion nightmares like Bjork’s swan dress of ’94. While feathered dresses are far from practical, feather prints are perfect for everyday. Take flight in an adorable feather printed dress. Keep it casual with prints on cotton, or take it into the evening with sexy silks. These dresses are sure to make you want to shake your tail feathers. And remember - feather prints aren’t limited to dresses. Stay in style with feather printed tank tops and t-shirts too.
Where to find it: Check stores like H&M and Zara for feather prints.
Flights of Fancy
Conjure up the birds of paradise with this season’s colourful new shades. Exotic purples, blues, and greens are among the hottest hues to add a pop of colour to your look. Pick up a peacock-inspired eye shadow for bold beautiful eyes. For those who are a bit less daring, add a hint of tint with blue or purple mascara, or brightly coloured liner. Nail polish is another great way to bring a splash of fun, and with so many colours to choose from you can sing a different tune every day.
Where to find it: Sephora and M.A.C. offer an array of bird inspired shades.
Pretty Plumage
Tired looking tresses? Break out of your bland cage and add some glamour to your locks. Give your look a dose of instant chic with feminine feathers. The charm of the '20s is back in full swing with colourful hair accessories adorned with peacock and duck feathers. Bring out your inner flapper with a feathered headband, or use a hair comb or barrettes to become a sexy siren. No ugly ducklings here!
Where to find it: Accessory departments of H&M or Forever XXI
Give a Hoot
Who’s been popping up everywhere? Owls – definitely the must have of the season. Seen on everything from t-shirts to accessories, owls are on trend. T-shirts are featuring both realistic and cartoon owls and are the perfect pairing for your new boyfriend jacket. As for accessories - necklaces, earrings, rings, you name it – owls have taken over every accessory you can think of. Can’t get enough of your owl? Bring owls home on a cute picture frame or quirky clock and accessorize your nest.
Where to find it: Urban outfitters is a good place to start for owl tees and home accessories.
A note of caution – While we love the feathered look, we don’t want the fashion vultures swarming around you. Don’t overdo it. Limit your look to one feathered item to keep it chic and stylish.
There’s nothing fowl about this flirty fashion. Twitter isn’t the only way to express yourself this season. Add one of these four tweet-worthy trends to your wardrobe.
Feathered Frocks
Feathered dresses don’t have to turn into fashion nightmares like Bjork’s swan dress of ’94. While feathered dresses are far from practical, feather prints are perfect for everyday. Take flight in an adorable feather printed dress. Keep it casual with prints on cotton, or take it into the evening with sexy silks. These dresses are sure to make you want to shake your tail feathers. And remember - feather prints aren’t limited to dresses. Stay in style with feather printed tank tops and t-shirts too.
Where to find it: Check stores like H&M and Zara for feather prints.
Flights of Fancy
Conjure up the birds of paradise with this season’s colourful new shades. Exotic purples, blues, and greens are among the hottest hues to add a pop of colour to your look. Pick up a peacock-inspired eye shadow for bold beautiful eyes. For those who are a bit less daring, add a hint of tint with blue or purple mascara, or brightly coloured liner. Nail polish is another great way to bring a splash of fun, and with so many colours to choose from you can sing a different tune every day.
Where to find it: Sephora and M.A.C. offer an array of bird inspired shades.
Pretty Plumage
Tired looking tresses? Break out of your bland cage and add some glamour to your locks. Give your look a dose of instant chic with feminine feathers. The charm of the '20s is back in full swing with colourful hair accessories adorned with peacock and duck feathers. Bring out your inner flapper with a feathered headband, or use a hair comb or barrettes to become a sexy siren. No ugly ducklings here!
Where to find it: Accessory departments of H&M or Forever XXI
Give a Hoot
Who’s been popping up everywhere? Owls – definitely the must have of the season. Seen on everything from t-shirts to accessories, owls are on trend. T-shirts are featuring both realistic and cartoon owls and are the perfect pairing for your new boyfriend jacket. As for accessories - necklaces, earrings, rings, you name it – owls have taken over every accessory you can think of. Can’t get enough of your owl? Bring owls home on a cute picture frame or quirky clock and accessorize your nest.
Where to find it: Urban outfitters is a good place to start for owl tees and home accessories.
A note of caution – While we love the feathered look, we don’t want the fashion vultures swarming around you. Don’t overdo it. Limit your look to one feathered item to keep it chic and stylish.
Shop till you Drop!
Discover five of the City’s hottest spots to shop!
Yuppie Yorkville!
In the mood to splurge?! Come on down to Yorkville! If you’re looking for exquisite designer handbags and specialty boutique stores Yorkville is where you want to be! You can find the hottest designer labels such as Dolce Gabana, Gucci, Versace and Prada just to name a few. Yorkville offers you the latest trends and events in today’s fashion. It’s also home to the ever so popular Holt Renfrew. Holts is known to carry every designer name that every fashionista craves! When going to Yorkville make sure to check out the main shopping attractions: The Holt Renfrew Centre, Hazelton Lanes, Manulife Centre, Hudson's Bay Centre and Cumberland Terrace.
Shopping in Yorkville is a treat to many but to some an everyday routine, but keep in mind being a Yorkville addict can certainly take a toile on your wallet. So please shop responsibly.
Quirky Queen St!
Queen st West is Toronto’s hippest, trendiest and one of a kind shopping centres! Here you will find everything from black market shops to big corporation stores (H&M). The price range can vary from affordable to outrageous! If you’re looking to pick up some style tips and you don’t want to purchase a fashion magazine, just take a quick walk down Toronto’s fashion inspiration; Queen West.
Queen st shoppers are young, outgoing and fashion conscious consumers. They know what’s HOT and know where to find it!
Off Price Orfus Rd!
Yes! We said off price! Expect to find everything on Orfus road to be dirt cheap! This is Toronto’s discounted clothing market full of outlets to serve you! Here you can expect to pay anywhere from $1 (t-shirt) to $100 (leather) for all merchandise. Orfus rd consists of outlets and liquidation centers, so the styles might be a few seasons back. If being fashion forward is not a priority for you than this is where you want to be!
You can expect to find labels like Roots, Le Chateau and Bikini Bay here.
Electric Eaton Centre
This is one of Toronto’s biggest attractions, the Enormous Eaton Centre. It has over 230 stores and 1,600,000 square feet of shopping space; you can find everything from apparel to home furnishing. The Eaton Centre offers a convenience of shopping with the latest trends. It has two departments stores connected to it: The Bay and Sears. You will find only chain retail stores here, so if you’re looking for unique styles look elsewhere!
Due to it being a tourist attraction, The Eaton Centre operates on all statutory holidays; expect Christmas Day and Easter Sunday.
Captivating Kensington!
Looking for vintage goods? One of kind pieces? An experience when you shop? Then take the Spadina streetcar to the most diverse hub in the city; Kensington Market! The market is one of the most multicultural nooks in the city, so expect to find pieces that express diversity! You can find a lot of vintage shops, independent designers and clothing from all over the map here.
The main influence of fashion is retro, classic, vintage and funk. One thing you won’t find here is chain retail stores; expect culture and creativity when entering The Market.
Discover five of the City’s hottest spots to shop!
Yuppie Yorkville!
In the mood to splurge?! Come on down to Yorkville! If you’re looking for exquisite designer handbags and specialty boutique stores Yorkville is where you want to be! You can find the hottest designer labels such as Dolce Gabana, Gucci, Versace and Prada just to name a few. Yorkville offers you the latest trends and events in today’s fashion. It’s also home to the ever so popular Holt Renfrew. Holts is known to carry every designer name that every fashionista craves! When going to Yorkville make sure to check out the main shopping attractions: The Holt Renfrew Centre, Hazelton Lanes, Manulife Centre, Hudson's Bay Centre and Cumberland Terrace.
Shopping in Yorkville is a treat to many but to some an everyday routine, but keep in mind being a Yorkville addict can certainly take a toile on your wallet. So please shop responsibly.
Quirky Queen St!
Queen st West is Toronto’s hippest, trendiest and one of a kind shopping centres! Here you will find everything from black market shops to big corporation stores (H&M). The price range can vary from affordable to outrageous! If you’re looking to pick up some style tips and you don’t want to purchase a fashion magazine, just take a quick walk down Toronto’s fashion inspiration; Queen West.
Queen st shoppers are young, outgoing and fashion conscious consumers. They know what’s HOT and know where to find it!
Off Price Orfus Rd!
Yes! We said off price! Expect to find everything on Orfus road to be dirt cheap! This is Toronto’s discounted clothing market full of outlets to serve you! Here you can expect to pay anywhere from $1 (t-shirt) to $100 (leather) for all merchandise. Orfus rd consists of outlets and liquidation centers, so the styles might be a few seasons back. If being fashion forward is not a priority for you than this is where you want to be!
You can expect to find labels like Roots, Le Chateau and Bikini Bay here.
Electric Eaton Centre
This is one of Toronto’s biggest attractions, the Enormous Eaton Centre. It has over 230 stores and 1,600,000 square feet of shopping space; you can find everything from apparel to home furnishing. The Eaton Centre offers a convenience of shopping with the latest trends. It has two departments stores connected to it: The Bay and Sears. You will find only chain retail stores here, so if you’re looking for unique styles look elsewhere!
Due to it being a tourist attraction, The Eaton Centre operates on all statutory holidays; expect Christmas Day and Easter Sunday.
Captivating Kensington!
Looking for vintage goods? One of kind pieces? An experience when you shop? Then take the Spadina streetcar to the most diverse hub in the city; Kensington Market! The market is one of the most multicultural nooks in the city, so expect to find pieces that express diversity! You can find a lot of vintage shops, independent designers and clothing from all over the map here.
The main influence of fashion is retro, classic, vintage and funk. One thing you won’t find here is chain retail stores; expect culture and creativity when entering The Market.
Coco and the City
“A girl should be two things, classy and fabulous”, stated the infamous Coco Chanel
A famous fashion mantra that still holds true today. With the recent release of “Coco Avant Chanel”, a biographical movie depicting the early life of the french fashion designer, there has been much hype surrounding the world renowned brand. Coco was known for her simple and elegant taste, as well as being responsible for revolutionizing the way women dressed. Still today, girls everywhere aspire to achieve the “Chanel look”. There are many ways women today can exude the look, while keeping it youthful, modern, and suitable for city living. Whether running off to a meeting, dressing for an internship or getting ready for a night out, you cant go wrong with the elegance of a re worked Chanel inspired look.
A bold monochrome head to toe black look embodies the essence of the classic brand and is the basis for the look. To add some youthful edge, add a subtle pop of color. Maybe in one of this season's hottest shades, such as a deep purple or blue. An eye catching scarf, or bag will break up the look and keep it current.
A Chanel jacket will always be in style. For a more up to date look, ditch the dated tweed for a streamlined, fitted blazer, preferably in a monochromatic color. Blazers are making a comeback this season and work perfectly into this look. A tuxedo jacket can also be worn in it’s place for night. Coco loved anything with a slightly androgynous edge.
“Fashion is architecture, its a matter of proportions” Coco once said. One of the main keys to modernizing this look is to play with proportions. Take for example, the classic Chanel pairing of a button down shirt and fitted pants. To revamp it, try tucking the shirt into super high waisted pants, or wearing an oversized mens shirt with the ensemble.
Chanel preferred classically shaped heels and menswear inspired boots. Try wearing a tall equestrian boot with skinny black pants for daytime. For night, girls today can get away with pairing sky high heels with a Chanel inspired little black dress.
Coco detested frou frou. She was endlessly inspired by menswear and thought that overly girly touches made an outfit vulgar. Despite this fact, pearls and bows have become synonymous with the brand. Avoid looking overdone by picking one to accessorize with. A pearl necklace or a bow adorned headband for example. Top the look off with a purse influenced by Chanel. Look for anything quilted with a chained strap.
Our world is constantly changing and fashion changes right along with it. The trick to keeping any look alive is to allow it to evolve with the times. Iconic looks can sustain in present day as long as they are constantly being infused with new and modern ideas. After all, fashion should be a reflection of society and the world around us. As Coco Chanel herself once said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
Systematic Spending
Systematic Spending
A Girl’s Guide to Surviving the Season in Style
Maybe Scrooge was onto something. Nowadays, the holidays can seem more like one giant expense than ‘the most wonderful time of the year.’ Not to mention, the combination of shopping for others as well as outfitting yourself with enough getups for all those holiday events is nothing short of a your Visa bill’s worst nightmare. What if I told you there was a way to survive these holiday humps and still have some room left over for style, would you read on?
Now as much as we still like to get into the spirit of giving we can’t forget about the spirit of style come this holiday season. After all, even Santa makes sure to don a snappy suit in loo of the holiday season despite providing gifts for all. One shouldn’t have to stress about getting caught in the same cocktail dress twice. Really, the question is: How do I budget?
First and foremost, like any future plans in life, we must set goals that are defined by realistic outlines and limitations. For example, I have X amount of dollars to spend this holiday season and Y amount of people to purchase gifts for. Now, because foregoing the LBD in French Connection or the faux fur at H&M is not an option we need to figure out how much we can afford to spend on ourselves.
So, multiply 15% by X to get Z (Z = the amount of money you are allowed to spend on yourself). Now, subtract Z from X and divide Y by Z to get W (W = the amount of money you should spend on the gifts needed for others). I know this may be confusing but once you figure out the math it really is quiet simple.
Here’s an example budget. I have $500 to spend and 10 people to buys for.
Now I divide 500 by .15 and I get 75. I now have $75 to spend on myself (Yahoo!). The remainder, 425, divided by 10 leaves me $42.50 to spend on those 10 people.
Obviously, if Z represents thousands of dollars then immediately stop reading this article and head right over to Holt Renfrew on Bloor and indulge in the finest of Toronto fashion. However, for the others not to fret because we shall find some steals so scandalous they seem worthy of a lump of coal in your stocking.
So, go on and spend your ‘Z,’ whatever dollar amount it may be. At least this way you didn’t blow through your savings and have still added a little holiday cheer to your wardrobe. And because advice is always free, sequence tops, lace, leather, or fur are four ways that can ring in the holiday and New Year at multiple price points with great style. Happy shopping and receiving.
Winter Wonderland
`Tis the season to avoid…the freezing, never-ending winter weather!
This season, we’ll give you the run down of the key pieces you’ll need amongst those extra layers for winter.
The Essential: It’s all about keeping warm in this classic military inspired fashion statement. This piece shows a sense of confidence yet elegant and sexy. Falling well past your knees with buttons trailing to your neck (double-breasted or single); the coat is bound to get you set for those frosty nights!
Where to buy: Aritzia is one of Canada’s trendy retailers that carry exclusive labels such as Wilfred, which is currently selling their wool/cashmere blend, double-breasted coat that come in traditional hues such as black, beige and grey. These are great colours for this season -- they just never go out of style! Price $375
How high are your boots? – Casual or dressy, flat or heeled. What would winter be without boots? Making them the hottest shoe trend for women this season, over-the-knee boots are dramatically tall boots that reach up to your knees. They can be worn with your faux leather leggings, dark-wash skinny jeans, a pair of shorts or a full skirt.
Where to buy: These daring over-the-knee boots are sold at Nine West; one pair in particular come in a taupe and black suede with a laced tassel design at the back rim of the boot. These sassy kicks can give your simple, casual look a little va voom! Price $149
Strut those legs: This key piece is definitely a must! Leggings now-a-days are available in all kinds of patterns, fabrics and colours. We decided that black faux leather leggings gives an outfit that edgy and bold look that we love! For a girl’s night, slip them on with a pair of your killer boots that rise halfway up to your thighs and adding on sequenced tunic or wear them during the day with a loose v-neck, bright coloured pumps and a pair of dark shades. This season is all about showing off your striders!
Where to buy: American Apparel sells fabulous faux leather leggings that also come in different textures such as classic cotton spandex, nylon tricot, faux denim, satin, and even in eel (just the feel of it!) Price: $32 - $46
Get even comfier! : Can’t get any warmer than this! If comfort and warmth is the ultimate luxury during this wintery weather, what could be better than a put-it-over-everything knitted cardigan? The boyfriend look would be better to consider just because it’s a piece that can make your whole outfit look effortless but yet city/casual.
Where to buy: It’s best to look for an over-sized knit cardigan that contains a wool blend; just so you can keep that body of yours warm and cosy. Zara carries great wool blend knits that offer gorgeous styles and textures. F.Y.I, their thick knitted cardigans are so in for this season. Price: $39 - $59
Winter Wonder-Wow!
Love the season’s trends but don’t love having to retire them after 2 months? Here are five trends that will have you looking fabulous no matter what the season.
Denim Today, Denim Tomorrow
Snag a pair of the seasons raw denim. With no whiskers, fading, or distressing, these must haves will keep you chic (and warm) amid winter winds. Pair with boots and a sweater for day or killer heels and satin top for nightlife. An alternative to dresses; go for a skinny or straight leg cut to keep it modern. Deliciously dark and fabulously fresh, you’ll be wearing these denim duds well into the New Year.
Cozy for Cashmere
The lush feel is a seasonal favourite that can also carry your wardrobe into those chilly Spring days. Basics like cardigans, sleeveless dresses, scarves and even leggings are good investment pieces. Layer a cardi for winter and then wear with a lighter tee or tank for the spring and plush leggings will protect your gams through any weather. Go for a neutral colour for an easy transition from season to season.
Glove Love
Slide on the sexiest gloves of the season. The perfect finishing touch to your winter wardrobe, these gloves are equal parts practical and polished giving your paws a pop of colour. Warm enough keep out the winter cold, yet light enough to sustain the spring winds; you can sport them for a lighter look. The bright candy colours also make them ideal for both seasons, adding a pop of colour to your wardrobe. Soft leather and in oh so many mouth watering colours your only problem will be choosing just one.
Hats On
Keep your noggin numb free and stylish in Winters coolest wool hat. Essential for the season, this knitted baggy beret easily completes any winter look. Pair with your parka or peacoat for a classic look with added edge. So easy to throw on to keep luscious locks in check, you’ll never want to take it off. The lightweight fiber is perfect for those cold winter days, but also necessary for that unpredictable Spring weather. This hat will transition seamlessly into your Spring wardrobe, pair with a leather jacket and ballet flats for a look that exudes urban coolness.
Bootie and the Chic
Every girl needs a little black something in her wardrobe, and this season it is the little black bootie. Claim it in paten, leather or suede, it doesn’t matter, these killer heels will have you strutting your stuff in style. Throw them on with skinny jeans and a sheer top for a winter night on the town. Or pair open toe booties with opaque tights and your favourite party dress to beat the chill. For more fling in your Spring, keep the dress but ditch the tights. These booties won’t be going anywhere, and you won’t want them too.
The Great Dame Meets The Femme Fatale
Attention fashion lovers! If you're ticked off about the expiration date stamped on each season's 'it look' then you're in luck. Here are the top four trends that will have you looking ravishing from season to season. Whoever said rebellion chic and feminine opulence did not match was sadly mistaken!
Pearly Whites
Audrey Hepburn, circa 1961. The epitome of class and elegance. Simple white pearls paired with a classic black dress. Daphne Guinness, circa 2009. Satin black dress matched with an oversized pearl necklace. From classic to modern chic, the evolution of pearly whites has definitely transformed into something of pure contemporary opulence. From day to night, this transitional piece has become a representation of true glitz and glamour. So whether you're going for the simplicity of a pearl studded satin sandal or the excitement of an oversized pearl trim necklace, be prepared to be stopped! Because girl, you look fabulous!
Lace du jour!
Traditionally, lace has been the staple of absolute femininity. The delicacy and softness that each intricate detail of fabric brings creates the desire of romance. Taking a turn for the modern edge, lace has reinvented itself into one fierce must-have. Whether it is through unexpected shapes and trimmings of a classic lace dress or the soft use of lace piping on your favorite pair of black trousers, this trend is defiantly here to stay. So those of you who want to add a punch to that classic look, go explore the modern twist of lace-mania!
Blackography
The perfect staple item in any woman’s wardrobe, the little black... something. From runway chic to the street, black has definitely become a predominate wave in fashion. Transitioning that classic blazer for that black silk blend jacket paired with a quilted pencil skirt, how could you go wrong? Since the dawn of time, black has been the go-to color. By adding your personal flare and style to the once traditional hue, there is no telling where you may end up! So whether you're paired with an embroidered black satin skirt or a more traditional wool cardigan, you're sure to look ready and fabulous for any occasion.
Beauteous Leather
Leather has unquestionably entered the world of fashion in full force! We're talking, the leather biker jacket, the cheeky embossed leather bag or the classic leather dud. We have seen the once bulky leather jacket transform into a downright sexy but sophisticated look. Faced with classic stream lines, ornate detailing and modern trims, leather has come back with a zest for flare and glam. So whether your a modern maven or classically elegant, dive into the wonderful world of leather with no fear!
Attention fashion lovers! If you're ticked off about the expiration date stamped on each season's 'it look' then you're in luck. Here are the top four trends that will have you looking ravishing from season to season. Whoever said rebellion chic and feminine opulence did not match was sadly mistaken!
Pearly Whites
Audrey Hepburn, circa 1961. The epitome of class and elegance. Simple white pearls paired with a classic black dress. Daphne Guinness, circa 2009. Satin black dress matched with an oversized pearl necklace. From classic to modern chic, the evolution of pearly whites has definitely transformed into something of pure contemporary opulence. From day to night, this transitional piece has become a representation of true glitz and glamour. So whether you're going for the simplicity of a pearl studded satin sandal or the excitement of an oversized pearl trim necklace, be prepared to be stopped! Because girl, you look fabulous!
Lace du jour!
Traditionally, lace has been the staple of absolute femininity. The delicacy and softness that each intricate detail of fabric brings creates the desire of romance. Taking a turn for the modern edge, lace has reinvented itself into one fierce must-have. Whether it is through unexpected shapes and trimmings of a classic lace dress or the soft use of lace piping on your favorite pair of black trousers, this trend is defiantly here to stay. So those of you who want to add a punch to that classic look, go explore the modern twist of lace-mania!
Blackography
The perfect staple item in any woman’s wardrobe, the little black... something. From runway chic to the street, black has definitely become a predominate wave in fashion. Transitioning that classic blazer for that black silk blend jacket paired with a quilted pencil skirt, how could you go wrong? Since the dawn of time, black has been the go-to color. By adding your personal flare and style to the once traditional hue, there is no telling where you may end up! So whether you're paired with an embroidered black satin skirt or a more traditional wool cardigan, you're sure to look ready and fabulous for any occasion.
Beauteous Leather
Leather has unquestionably entered the world of fashion in full force! We're talking, the leather biker jacket, the cheeky embossed leather bag or the classic leather dud. We have seen the once bulky leather jacket transform into a downright sexy but sophisticated look. Faced with classic stream lines, ornate detailing and modern trims, leather has come back with a zest for flare and glam. So whether your a modern maven or classically elegant, dive into the wonderful world of leather with no fear!
What’s you pussycat?
From high style to your style we look at how you can achieve a top model look of your own.
Off the catwalk and onto Main Street
What looks good on those girls on the catwalk might not work for your evening out on the town. We all love admiring fashion on other people, but how do we know what we will like on ourselves. Those ripped-to-shreds jeans that your best friend looked stunning in last night might not look as stunning on you. Admiring fashion on the catwalk is one of my favourite hobbies, but that is a different story from realizing what works for my life. So how do we figure out what clothes will make us feel like a top model and be done with those pocket breaking shopping mistakes? Here are some simple suggestions to finding your true style.
Watch and wear
Take cues from someone in your life that you admire and who you think embodies perfect style. It can be anyone. For me it is my parents’ eccentric friend who has never shared her true age and has only admitted to three marriages. Our friend, Sherry, embodies true style. Her fashions are a mix of vintage finds and extravagant designer labels that I can only dream of ever owning. At the age of 15, in New York for the first time, after being sent out to purchase an appropriate evening dress, she ended up on Saks Fifth Avenue buying a little black cocktail dress that cost an undisclosed amount. And it is every bit as amazing as it sounds and still hangs in her closet. She is an inspiration to me and I hope that I will learn to embody style half as well as she does.
Inspiration – Imitation
One of the most useful ways of realizing what you are drawn to is by focusing your inspirations. Tear out pictures of celebrities, fashion shows, friends, prints, colour combinations and anything else that grabs your eye. Once you have gathered enough pictures, find the common style elements. These elements are things you should look for when shopping; they are the things that you are instinctually drawn to. Maybe it’s a colour, a look, e.g., layered or very feminine; it could be shape, e.g., volume or streamlined. Use these style cues when you are shopping and you will avoid that dreaded buyer’s remorse.
Making a case for your closet
Very few of use can afford a full re-do of our wardrobes. This step looks at what you already own. Anything you have not worn in two years or anything that is damaged should be donated. If you haven’t worn or fixed them, you never will. Pull out items you have worn and felt great in. Make it a point to keep these items at the front of your closet - anything that makes you feel good you should wear more. After you have gone though your closet, you will have a better idea of its gaps. You might feel your work wardrobe needs some refreshing, or maybe you need more looks for a night out. Once you have identified these gaps you can go shopping with a purpose, keeping your style cues from your inspirational pictures in mind!
What's In Your Closet?
The Modern Day Woman's Love For Shoes...
There are millions of women on earth, all different personalities, different hopes and dreams, cultural backgrounds, beliefs and values, but, one thing women around the world have in common: Our Love For Shoes! It’s something men don’t understand and women have hundreds of different excuses for. There is not one reason for the excessive amount of footwear we have in our closets; each carefully selected pair has their own reason for being there. Whether it is sky-high Manolo Blahniks or five different pairs of air force ones, we all have our reasons for spending a large majority of our disposable income on shoes.
The most common answer when asked why ladies love our shoes, is most often that it makes us feel sexy, sophisticated, and over all confident! Shoes will never turn their backs on us, not that we don’t love our clothes, but if we gain that 5-10lbs over the holidays we won’t have to jump into our shoes like we do our jeans, they just slip on and still look fabulous. When we go shopping and haven’t gone to the gym in a few months, there’s no awkward size battle, because your feet always stay the same size. Shoe shopping can do wonders for our emotional-esteem and physical-esteem, therefore creating wonderfully high self-esteem!
As in the past shoes are still interrelated with social-standings. In the medieval times, large buckles meant you were a very wealthy citizen because you could afford to buy your footwear with such fancy decorations. Some buckles were so large they would cover a person’s entire foot. Around that same time, women in Europe were distinguishing their social class by the height of their shoes. Known as Chopines or plat-forms, these shoes would range from around 7-inches to 30-inches, women walking in these extraordinarily, unnecessarily high plat-forms would sometimes need servants to help them move around. Now, some girls may still need servants to help them walk in their heels, it’s more about the brands that separate the rich & powerful, from the regular everyday girl. For some strange reason putting on our most expensive pair of kicks causes a light to go on inside us and we feel like a whole new woman. Bringing us closer to celebrity status one dollar at a time, it’s no big deal though, as long as we don’t shoe –shop ourselves into debt shoe shopping can be a hobby.
“I like to literally put women on a pedestal” Vivienne Westwood claims, and she is exactly right, when wearing a favourite pair of shoes we are the centre of the universe, nothing can bring us down (that’s how we feel at least!). Marilyn Monroe says “ I don’t know who invented high-heels, but all women owe him a lot” and she is right, so Mr. shoe man, Thank-You, you have given us a love, that even if it goes wrong, we can pay to replace or fix.
The most common answer when asked why ladies love our shoes, is most often that it makes us feel sexy, sophisticated, and over all confident! Shoes will never turn their backs on us, not that we don’t love our clothes, but if we gain that 5-10lbs over the holidays we won’t have to jump into our shoes like we do our jeans, they just slip on and still look fabulous. When we go shopping and haven’t gone to the gym in a few months, there’s no awkward size battle, because your feet always stay the same size. Shoe shopping can do wonders for our emotional-esteem and physical-esteem, therefore creating wonderfully high self-esteem!
As in the past shoes are still interrelated with social-standings. In the medieval times, large buckles meant you were a very wealthy citizen because you could afford to buy your footwear with such fancy decorations. Some buckles were so large they would cover a person’s entire foot. Around that same time, women in Europe were distinguishing their social class by the height of their shoes. Known as Chopines or plat-forms, these shoes would range from around 7-inches to 30-inches, women walking in these extraordinarily, unnecessarily high plat-forms would sometimes need servants to help them move around. Now, some girls may still need servants to help them walk in their heels, it’s more about the brands that separate the rich & powerful, from the regular everyday girl. For some strange reason putting on our most expensive pair of kicks causes a light to go on inside us and we feel like a whole new woman. Bringing us closer to celebrity status one dollar at a time, it’s no big deal though, as long as we don’t shoe –shop ourselves into debt shoe shopping can be a hobby.
“I like to literally put women on a pedestal” Vivienne Westwood claims, and she is exactly right, when wearing a favourite pair of shoes we are the centre of the universe, nothing can bring us down (that’s how we feel at least!). Marilyn Monroe says “ I don’t know who invented high-heels, but all women owe him a lot” and she is right, so Mr. shoe man, Thank-You, you have given us a love, that even if it goes wrong, we can pay to replace or fix.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Schools Out! ...Now What?
School’s Out! ...Now What?
How to Find a Job in Fashion
It may seem like a long way off right now, but before you know it the school year will be over and suddenly it will be April. Some of us will be graduating, others taking the summer off in preparation for another school year, but many of us may be left wondering, “Now what?” The prospect of finding a job in the fashion industry can be intimidating. You may not know where to look for jobs or what jobs are right for you. The pressures to find a job can be overwhelming. However, given the right resources, finding a job in the fashion industry does not have to be as daunting a task as it seems. Read on for tips on how to prepare and where to look for fashion jobs in Toronto.
Research... One of the most helpful things to do before you start to look for a job is to get an idea of what is out there. Think of what areas of work interest you and then research companies that specialize in these areas. For example, if you are interested in event planning or PR, look up recent events that have happened in Toronto and find out who was involved. Research those companies to get an idea of what they do, and what kind of positions might interest you. Even if they do not have any jobs available, you will understand more about the market you want to enter.
Resumes... It is important to have an up-to-date, organized resume. Start out with a basic resume that indicates your objectives, a profile, and education and work experience. Once this is compiled, have someone with experience check it over for you. This may be a friend, a contact in the industry, or someone at the George Brown Career Centre. A second opinion can help you tidy it up, reword, and make it more professional. After you have a basic resume completed, you can begin to tailor it to match the job descriptions you are applying for.
Networking... By now everyone knows the value of networking when searching for a job, but this tool can often get overlooked. Sometimes shyness or not knowing where to look can get in the way of putting networking to use on the job search. But for students starting out, networking can include things like staying in touch with your classmates and exchanging job information. Stay in contact with teachers, and make use of events and courses at the George Brown Career Centre. Take another internship with an interesting company. Networking is about meeting people and learning about different resources, and it can even be fun if you have the right attitude about it.
Resources In Toronto... Here are some resources to have at your finger tips when looking for a job in Fashion:
http://gbcareers.georgebrown.ca/home.htm - GBCareers provides access job listings to match your search, manages resumes and cover letters, information about job fairs and events.
http://torontojobs.ca -Search for jobs online, attend events in your area, find detailed information about recruiters, interview advice and networking.
http://www.linkedin.com - Online networking site that allows the user to connect with contacts in the industry, stay in touch, and gain information about opportunities.
http://www.fashionincubator.com - Stay informed about the local fashion industry, and find helpful information in its resources sections, such as a fashion search engine and fashion placement agencies.
http://canadianreatil.com -Search engine listing hundreds of job opportunities with Canadian retailers, from accounting, to buying, to store management positions.
How to Find a Job in Fashion
It may seem like a long way off right now, but before you know it the school year will be over and suddenly it will be April. Some of us will be graduating, others taking the summer off in preparation for another school year, but many of us may be left wondering, “Now what?” The prospect of finding a job in the fashion industry can be intimidating. You may not know where to look for jobs or what jobs are right for you. The pressures to find a job can be overwhelming. However, given the right resources, finding a job in the fashion industry does not have to be as daunting a task as it seems. Read on for tips on how to prepare and where to look for fashion jobs in Toronto.
Research... One of the most helpful things to do before you start to look for a job is to get an idea of what is out there. Think of what areas of work interest you and then research companies that specialize in these areas. For example, if you are interested in event planning or PR, look up recent events that have happened in Toronto and find out who was involved. Research those companies to get an idea of what they do, and what kind of positions might interest you. Even if they do not have any jobs available, you will understand more about the market you want to enter.
Resumes... It is important to have an up-to-date, organized resume. Start out with a basic resume that indicates your objectives, a profile, and education and work experience. Once this is compiled, have someone with experience check it over for you. This may be a friend, a contact in the industry, or someone at the George Brown Career Centre. A second opinion can help you tidy it up, reword, and make it more professional. After you have a basic resume completed, you can begin to tailor it to match the job descriptions you are applying for.
Networking... By now everyone knows the value of networking when searching for a job, but this tool can often get overlooked. Sometimes shyness or not knowing where to look can get in the way of putting networking to use on the job search. But for students starting out, networking can include things like staying in touch with your classmates and exchanging job information. Stay in contact with teachers, and make use of events and courses at the George Brown Career Centre. Take another internship with an interesting company. Networking is about meeting people and learning about different resources, and it can even be fun if you have the right attitude about it.
Resources In Toronto... Here are some resources to have at your finger tips when looking for a job in Fashion:
http://gbcareers.georgebrown.ca/home.htm - GBCareers provides access job listings to match your search, manages resumes and cover letters, information about job fairs and events.
http://torontojobs.ca -Search for jobs online, attend events in your area, find detailed information about recruiters, interview advice and networking.
http://www.linkedin.com - Online networking site that allows the user to connect with contacts in the industry, stay in touch, and gain information about opportunities.
http://www.fashionincubator.com - Stay informed about the local fashion industry, and find helpful information in its resources sections, such as a fashion search engine and fashion placement agencies.
http://canadianreatil.com -Search engine listing hundreds of job opportunities with Canadian retailers, from accounting, to buying, to store management positions.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Re-Work it, Girl!
Re-Work it, Girl!
Five great places to shop vintage in the city
The face of vintage shopping has changed in
69 Vintage + Buy the Pound
69 Vintage is a whole new thrifting experience with locations at
Vintage Nouveau
Vintage Nouveau, a large warehouse space on Queen just west of Spadina, doesn’t seem extravagant at first glance. Their simple set up, with no great visual displays or dazzling interiors, is a bit industrial and mundane. However, upon closer inspection, hundreds of clothing items make up for the boring store front. Their vintage pieces are organized and the spacious warehouse gives you room o move around and try things on. Most pieces, shoes, blazers and bags included, fall below the $40 mark and their thorough selection will not disappoint. Positive: they support neighboring charities like the daily bread food bank and local schools!
Vintage Depot offers an exquisite collection of merchandise that would both surprise any avid thrift-shopper and delight those who are new to the concept. Pieces you would normally spend hours looking for, amongst racks and racks of clothing, anywhere else seem to magically float upon their hangers with a glimmer of hope that reminds us that shopping vintage doesn’t always have to be like a scavenger hunt. Fifty per cent of the items at Vintage Depot are fabulous finds, in trend, and easy to spot. Their prices are reasonable, about $10 for a cute beaded tunic and $25 for a great tweed blazer, and they are one of the few spots in Kensington Market who have not yet raised prices due to the popularity of ‘thrift’ becoming ‘vintage’. Hint: pay in cash- it’ll cost you less than any other method.
Common Sort is an interesting thrift store with a less-than common concept. They offer a buy, sell, trade environment where customers can trade in their gently used brand name clothing for a credit to purchase new items. The merchandise buyers on duty will asses your clothing, choose what they wish to buy from you, price them accordingly, and give you 50% of that in a credit to be used within the store! Or, if you don’t want the store credit, they can hand over 25% of the total in cash on the spot. The great thing about Common Sort is their merchandise selection. Every piece is looked over by the merchandise buyers, as well as the owner Nina B. herself, so you know you are getting quality picks. It is an innovative, new spin on an old favourite.
Extoggery
1640 Avenue Road
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