Thursday, September 11, 2008

Suggestions For Oh, George! Fall/Winter

  • Have more editorial photo shoots
  • More photos
  • Better quality pictures (Some are too dark in previous magazines)
  • More art influence
  • Interesting photography (artistic)
  • More pictures/graphics/drawings
  • Eye-catching cover
  • More interesting background for each page of the magazine instead of just white
  • Publish ads that push borders
  • Keep content fresh by publishing stories that are unique
  • Innovative pieces
  • Good writing; quality over quantity
  • Good number of readers
  • Push writers to go out on a limb and make BOLD predictions of future fashions/trends
  • No extras ie. horoscopes, quizzes etc. and fill with more pieces by students
  • Really geared towards market; more interviews with young designers, entreprenuers, bands
  • Local designers
  • Interview with Dagg and Stacey-Fashion Editorial
  • Interview Peter Papateau/Serge Icerbel (Lush magazine fashion director)
  • Interviews with new, Canadian designers
  • Interviews with students from George Brown
  • Promote GB fashion students within our programs and community
  • Promote GB students who have started their own clothing and jewelry lines
  • Music Section- ie. bands, CD reviews; music with fashion tie-ins
  • Reviews of fashion shows
  • Neighborhood Spotlights- ie. stores that are lesser known in the Annex, Yorkville, etc.
  • Local finds, shops, gems
  • Toronto style hotspots ie. discovering the city; toronto fashion map
  • Local Toronto fashion scene
  • Comparing fashion in Toronto to fashion in an other city ie. Tokyo
  • Fashions in Korea (will be traveling there in Oct.)
  • Travel
  • Seasonal trends- ie. XMas fashion
  • Perfect drinks/coctsails for Christmas season
  • How to throw an awesome party
  • Makeup and hair matching your outfit
  • Top ten trends and how to work them
  • ‘Must haves’ from Fashion Week or for the season
  • Advice column about common fashion problems
  • ‘Fashion Police’ but choose stylish people and comment on why they look good
  • Interview people on the street about how they would describe their style
  • ‘What’s in your Bag?’- popular magazine in Japan
  • Look into different parts of the fashion industry; different genres
  • Grunge vs. Luxe inspiration
  • Incorporate many different fashion styles in to the writing ie. grunge, hippy, etc.
  • Environmental issues

Monday, March 10, 2008

Oh (No!), Canada

By Emily Felker

Canadian fashion is on the slow decline. With our homeland brands selling out to American powerhouses, we are losing our fashion identity and becoming more and more dependent on America for our fashion requirements.
This past year marked another tragic decline in Canadian fashion. We began to lose one of our most successful companies to an American super seller. Lululemon Athletica is on the road to selling out. Lululemon was smart brilliant in finding their niche market, and then was able to appeal to the masses.
Undergoing enormous expansion from their one store in Vancouver to over 120 stores in North America, Japan and Australia lead to the inevitable, and merging with American investors. Lululemon sold to a US private equity firm, Advent International, for an estimated $225 million, giving Advent International 48% share of the name, later dividing this into public shares. Although Lululemon is commendable for keeping the slight majority Canadian owned, they did however begin to take the dive into giving up their Canadian status. They had the opportunity to rebuild a name for Canada, and put a brand out internationally that would remind the world that Canada still exists in the fashion world. We are losing our reputation in fashion and becoming the northern part of the USA, instead of distinguishing ourselves apart from them.
But retailers are not the only ones selling themselves to the States. We are the consumers are as well. Even though our market has been penetrated with many American retailers, we ourselves are taking our money to States where we can get more bang for our (high Canadian!) buck.
But it is ever so tempting to shop in the States. Markdowns are unreal, and merchandise is readily available and in a greater variety then we are used to. And pumping out fast, inexpensive fashion is not just a niche market, but a booming business taking over. There is much more variety and assortment, and many items that the Canadian market does not offer.
Even with regular priced merchandise Canadian shoppers will find a huge difference in price. Mark-ups in Canada can be as high as 60% on merchandise, whereas the USA usually averages in at 30%. One prime retailer guilty of this is Abercrombie & Fitch. In Canada items can be up to $20 more than if purchased in the USA. so really, if you can make the trip across the border to make these purchases, why wouldn’t you?
Most retailers (Victoria’s Secret, Macy’s, Dillard’s and many more) in the USA offer their own credit card, which in turn gives you a discount on your first purchase, and sometimes all to follow. So if you were sign up while shopping with the intentions of cancelling the card right after, you can save even more on your shopping trip. Caution: using the card may inhibit you to spend more than planned, this tactic is only for the strong willed.
American retailers will give you any reason to stay in their stores and shop. Service is much better in their stores, and with them throwing added discounts at you, it becomes harder to turn down and not to spend more.
While America bombards us with their brands, it does become a rarity to see Canadian merchandise in their stores. A certain smugness and prides comes with seeing Canadian designs present in their department stores. For instance, in Strongsville, Ohio Dillard’s has a large women’s section dedicated solely to the Nygard collection. It is complete with LCD monitors showing his designs as well as an impressive photo of Peter Nygard himself. There is Canada, making its stand. And in a big way. And let us not forget Lida Baday, who was able to make her stand in the American market.
But is there a consumer consciousness that will prevent us from shopping in the States? And do people really care whether or not they support Canadian fashions and retailers?
Unfortunately, I don’t think so. At the end of the day, it all comes down to the almighty dollar. If people can spend less and buy more, they will do so. Just seeing the price differences in the States are eye opening. And if people can shop there easily why not do so for the lower prices? On the other hand, seeing the differences in prices can cause frustrations in Canadian shoppers about their home shopping, because they don't understand why there are drastic price differences. Even with our dollar higher it has been in a long time, Canadian prices are hardly being adjusted. Some retailers (like The Bay) claim to be lowering their prices to accommodate our dollar, but it has been hardly noticeable.
The Canadian market needs to accommodate to our new-found higher dollar, and make the prices we pay for our merchandise more reasonable in comparison to the States. Our own fashion industry which although small but mighty, needs to be cultivated, in order to provide for Canada. We cannot completely ignore American fashion but it should supplement instead of supply our industry.

Monday, March 03, 2008

Dollars for scents…make sense?

Is it aromatic sense or perfumed poisons? Be aware, care and bare your identity in a whiff.

Working in a clothing store in Toronto, I have experienced perfume departments wafting through the racks in the form of customers, brusquely demanding service through their clouds of odour repellant. All that I can think is, “What are you trying to hide?”

It is a democratic world; anyone who's anyone can put out a scent. In 2006, department stores carried 1,160 different fragrances for women compared with 756 in 2002, according to NPD Group, a market research firm that tracks consumer product sales. Along with another zillion other perfume home products, we are living, breathing pungent bouquets of aromatic scents.

All these synthetic scents have billions of dollars of advertising behind them to tell us what these smells mean and would mean to other people. Although the messages can be varied-- from Latino superstar to underage nymphomaniac--one message is clear. Own a piece of aspiration—security, fame, wealth and/or sex appeal—in a bottle.

The science of smell is deeply rooted with our ideas of self. According a summer 1995 article in Brain Briefings by the Society for Neuroscience, olfactory information travels up to the brain where memory, emotions and conscious thoughts are processed. By taking advantage of this, advertisers have slapped on brand identities to scents to appeal to the customer—you.

However, underlying these intentions is that we can understand our identities by the choices of our consumption. And by buying (or not) into these products, we define ourselves, without saying a word, where we stand in mainstream culture.

The same NPD survey in 2006 also found that a growing number of women are choosing not to wear fragrance, largely due to fragrance fatigue as well as the worry of the effect of perfumes on others. Many people are concerned that their scents were leaving bad impressions or even causing allergies.

However, even if one chooses not to buy into the commercial perfume industry as a social concern, the real issue here is that scented products can be dangerous to health. In the Renaissance, perfumes were worn to cover up body odour. Today, fragrances are added to bad smelling toxic poisons to increase their appeal and thus their usage. An example is a product like Lysol bathroom spray. On the bottle it clearly states that it is toxic and that it should be inhaled directly. Scratching the surface a little deeper, doesn’t it seem a little incongruous that an air freshener should not be inhaled? What about over continuous usage over time?

According to the October 2007 Journal of Chromatography, the increased use and production of synthetic musk compounds, used to mask unpleasant odours, are being detected in the environment like lake trout and in human breast milk. Not only is synthetic musk unable to biodegrade, it accumulates in the food and reproductive cycle. In 2005, two Stanford researchers Luckenbach and Epel, have shown these musks have the potential to compromise the body’s immunity system over time. With growing concern especially from European public interest groups, some countries have banned the use of certain musks e.g. Japan.

An additional problem in body products is the use of perfumes. The perfume industry is highly secretive in order to maintain competitiveness. Government regulations require only the listing of chemicals that may be toxic. Although certain chemicals are under toxicity regulations, it does not take into consideration a person’s combined diet of perfumed products. In addition, if the ingredients are not known, how does one decide if it is toxic?

The health issues associated with scented products are immense, and some problems outlined above are the tip of the iceberg. If you still cherish the waft of a fragrant toss of hair, major supermarket chains have dedicated organic and natural areas in urban centres, while natural and organic stores are growing. Unfortunately, many ingredients listed on the back of many products do not denote if they are truly natural or synthetic.

If the product is organic, another guideline is to check for the certifying organization. Generally, according to a SPINS survey that analysed the growth of organic and natural bodycare products from 2006 to 2007, very few products meet strict USDA organic codes.

A good rule of thumb is that the shorter and simpler the list, the better. Long lists of components generally indicate artificial preservatives, petrochemicals and phtalates.

Instead of choosing a spritzer perfume with preservatives, which could be allergy inducing and react horribly in the sun, why not mix your own? Natural essential oils can be found at most natural food stores and this enables you to alter your scent as the mood strikes. Oils also tend to be subtler in fragrance and can be therapeutic.

Finally, perhaps we should consider the purpose of perfume itself. In most cases, it is a short term strategy to cover up bad odours. However, odours are usually messengers of bad diet, stress and lifestyle. Bacteria on the skin breaking down sweat cause the smells. By covering it up, not only are we absorbing chemicals through the skin, it is avoiding the real problem—an honest change in mindset.

A truthful evaluation of one’s diet and lifestyle may show a high intake of processed foods, insufficient fruits and vegetables or simply not drinking enough water. It could be deep-seated anxieties are not addressed and cause hormonal imbalances that result in smelly toxins.

If there’s one thing L’Oreal advertisers have it right, it’s their slogan, “Because I’m worth it.” Paying attention to diet and lifestyle choices is truly self-respect. Part of the process may be that we should accept ourselves for the way we smell, good or bad, and then work to be healthier and happier. This way to claim individuality definitely requires more work. But the results will speak for themselves and can only make us stronger, both mentally and physically. So I say--this summer, throw your scents out the window and breathe!

Monday, February 04, 2008

Sunless Sunsations







By Emily Felker

Longing for that summer glow, but not the wrinkles that come with it? Sunless tanners are the answer to beautiful, healthy skin to show off all summer long.

Scrub-a-dub-dub

Exfoliating is essential in tanner application. You need your skin to be a smooth canvas for your tan, so put some elbow grease into it, and slough away any dead skin. Body scrubs are a great option, but you can achieve the same results by adding some salt to you usual body wash! Also, shaving your legs helps to exfoliate them and make them oh so smooth.

Choose your weapon

With all the information about the long-term affects of sun tanning, there are many great self-tanners on the market. It’s all about finding the right one for you! Moisturizers with added self-tanner are great for beginners and fair skin, and they allow you to gradually build up that naturally perfect glow. If you're choosing a total self-tanner, one with a bronzer in it is best; it will allow you to see exactly where you’ve applied it. With these tanners it is very important to get the right colour for your skin tone; dark means dark! When using self-tanner on your face, it is vital to use one that is formulated for your face; they are milder and some even have an SPF in them, an added bonus!

Get your glow on

Smooth on your tanner all over in small doses to slowly create your perfect shade. A little bit goes a long way, and too much tanner will cause your skin to look orange and streaky. Remember, you can always reapply. Also, be careful around your elbows and knees; these spots tend to be drier and can absorb more colour and end up looking spotty. Wash your hands with soap and water as soon as you are finished, blotched hands are a tell-tale sign of your sun-savvy ways.

Sit back and tan

Most self-tanners will develop their full colour in between three and six hours. Wait it out, for about twenty minutes after applying before putting clothes on...you don’t want to stain them! Avoid showering or swimming for at least six hours; it may take your tan right off! It is best to put self-tanner on at night; this gives it enough time to work its magic while you sleep. You’ll wake up beautifully bronzed and won’t have to worry about it interrupting your day plans. If by chance any streaks or stripes appear, don’t worry; just buff it up and some of the colour will blend together leaving you just the glow you desire.

Enjoy the afterglow

Keep reapplying until you have achieved the tan you’ve been craving, and moisturize as you go; tanner can be drying! Flaunt that smouldering bronze skin! At night rub some baby oil or bronzing oil on for an extra glimmer of allure. And feel great knowing that your beautiful tan won’t be damaging your precious skin!






Sunday, February 03, 2008

Cheap and chic: Fabulous finds in Leslieville

Cheap and chic: Fabulous finds in Leslieville

Hopscotch Queen East’s hot spots with this introductory guide to easy living in the east. 

Queen East, also known as Leslieville, is rapidly becoming the fashionista’s destination for cool, left-of-the field finds. Art galleries, restaurants, bars and boutiques are quickly taking over grimy auto-repair shops and sketchy local bars.  For the frugal and fashionable budget, here’s a list of must-dos when you find yourself east of Broadview St on the Queen streetcar.

Gold-digging

Value Village, 924 Queen Street East (by Carlaw).

Absolutely one of the best Value Villages in Toronto. Its accessible by the 24-hour Queen streetcar, open till 9pm everyday except Sunday (open till 6pm), and constant raiding by the stylish-in-the-know keep goods fresh. If you like a good rummage this is your zone. It stocks furniture, electronics and tons of accessories in addition to clothing for the whole family. Work your creativity on gently used garments that are cheaper than buying a roll of fabric.

Bonjour mon ami!

Bonjour Brioche, 812 Queen St East (by Winnifred)

Not exactly budget, but quality finds require quality fuel. This French style bakery has potentially the best butter and chocolate croissants in the city at $1.25 each. They also have prepackaged sandwiches for those on the go. My personal favorite, the vegetarian, is a massive, rosemary foccacia bread stuffed with olive pate, grilled peppers and mushrooms, goat cheese on a bed of fresh spinach at approximately $7. They are closed on Mondays and goods sell out by early afternoon.

Sumptious Sushi

Sushi Marché, 1105 Queen St East (by Jones)

A great sushi take-out, known only by word of mouth, lies further east. Chef John Lee has trained under the Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and both Eye and Now Magazines have favorably reviewed Sushi Marché. He doesn’t have a big menu or seating capacity, but his quality rolls and sashimi are worth the little walk over to Greenwood Park (5 minutes) for a picnic bench. A Maki Lunch A will set u back $12, for 12 rolls of salmon and tuna, 1 kamikaze roll and a soup/salad. 

Unfurl your creativity!

Purple Purl, 1162 Queen St East (by Jones)

Knit in the shade of a tree or while you listen to your friend complain (again) about her new man. But first, learn to knit ($50)! Needle-less to say (pun intended), you'll save oodles on new clothes with your crafty new skills. Knit entrélac or even spin fibre into yarn at the Purple Purl. They sell a huge variety of yarns, books, and patterns and have workshops with materials provided. 

Style identity

Identity, 1735 Queen St East (by Coxwell)

In the grey zone between Leslieville and the Beaches, lies a stylish menswear oasis. Identity primarily caters to the stylish street-wise, from skaters to creative artsy types with some money. Carrying brands like Artful Dodger, Ice Cream and Millionaire Boys Club in small quantities ensures you the freshest threads when standing out from the crowd. It also has a womenswear section, but the menswear is where its at. Exclusive lines, limited editions (as in, 250 pieces worldwide) are at decent prices, considering the hard-to-get factor. Identity also has fantastic seasonal sales, at about 40-50% off.  

Stay in Beauty

Stay in beauty
Look Slimmer Instantly Without Dieting!

Most adult females are conscious of their weight, so here are 10 tips to look slimmer without dieting, just being careful with your option of clothes.It is a fact, that people subconsciously do an thought about whom they first run into within 30 seconds.How people perceive you is therefore vital in deriving the upper limit from both your life and calling.In today’s mental image conscious society, we all neediness to look our best and people look at your clothes before anything else by careful cosines ordination you can do yourself look slimmer to anyone’s oculus.

Here are 9 easy tips to lose a few lbs quickly without a diet.

1. One color
Monochromatic dressing brands anyone look taller, slimmer as it does not interrupt the bodyline up and shows a sleek outline

2. Exercise darker colors
it’s a fact that darker colors do you look slimmer than lighter colors do. Blackness is the most popular color and with good ground, its the best for making you look slimmer but other darkness colors work well to

3. Intensity level of color
If you are wearing multiple colors maintain the intensity level between them close. For instance, darkness blue and black or rock and white will be a best option.

4. Wear darker colors on your underside one-half
Darker color at the underside of your body tend to do you looks taller as your hips look slimmer.

5. Wear heels
Wearing high heels with a thin sole instantly do your legs look longer and you as an effect look slimmer.Always wear a neutral color hosiery or friction match your hosiery to the lighter color in the shoes. Never wear hosiery that is darker than the lightest color in the shoes

6. Don’t bisect a fuller fig
Wear a longer jacket or blouse, and wear it un-tucked. This will give a slimmer look, and deflects attending away from the problem waistline country.

7. Don’t exercise heavy cloths
Never wear clothes made out of heavy cloths, they will always do you look fatter. Take finer, silkier thin stuffs.

8. Wear clothes that tantrum
Always wear clothes that tantrum this may sound obvious but many adult females don’t. Don’t endeavor and squeezing into a size 8 if you are a size 10. Accept the size they really are and don’t sap yourself.

9. Wear clothes that balance the horizontal & vertical
you will always look slimmer if you balance your vertical and horizontal proportions of your body type.An adult female who has long body and short legs can wear a short jacket; however, if she has a large breast her jacket should be at least hip length to fend off attending away from her breasts.

By wearing clothes that are in proportion to your body type you look slimmer instantly.Today, many adult females confer with professional mental image advisors who can advice on all the above and a slew more.Not only can you slim your body, you can also slim your human face and present a mental image to affect.

Jungle Fever

Jungle Fever
Add an exotic print to embellish your outfit

I’m Loving the Leopard!
Leopard print is the easiest pattern to coordinate because it is a neutral color combination. Having a marvelous pair of leopard print shoes adds a funky and exotic punch that makes your outfit come together with “pizzazz”. It’s a fabulous pattern to wear when you are dressed in a very simple yet classy outfit. And by the time your eye is drawn to the shoes, “wow” they add that “wow factor” that makes your outfit fun and flirty. Try a red trim and leopard print shoe, it is a great contrast and is so funky. Some people love it, and some people hate it. But no doubt about, it is a fun and flirty look. And to those who are unsure whether leopard print is too “in-your-face,” maybe try a more subtle and darker leopard print shoe, it will add a more sophisticated yet stylish look to any outfit, Whether it is a corporate outfit or a night out. So don’t be scared of being “catty” be brave and try a leopard print.

A Zing of Zebra
Zebra print is a very eye catching print, though not as popular as the leopard print. It tends to be more of a conservative print. Whether it is a larger printed or a more condensed zebra print top. Sometimes Zebra print gives the illusion of stripes, which can horizontally elongate the torso. This is why some people shy away from zebra print. In this case, the sides of this top are gathered and tapered, which allows more shape. If this zebra print top is coordinated with a button down sweater of any color, it adds a “punch” to the outfit. Zebra print is also very versatile, black and white go with every color. It is always nice to have an exotic and stylish article of clothing in your wardrobe for those days when you want to add extra glamour and fun to your day. Zebra print gives you more of an illusion of jungle flavor. Some people might be intimidated by the zebra print in a top but might feel more comfortable wearing it in foot wear. It all depends on each person’s unique style. But I would definitely recommend that there is at least one article of clothing that demonstrates “Jungle fever” in your wardrobe.

Heighten Your Look with Giraffe Print
Giraffe print has become as popular as the leopard print. The caramel and white combination is again, very neutral and coordinates with any color. Leopard print has been a very popular print for the past 3 seasons or so, and many people crave originality. Giraffe print is similar in color scene to leopard print but Giraffe print is distinctively different. This is why when having a big print like Giraffe print on a hand bag is very eye-catching and distinct. Giraffe print resembles polka dots, that’s why it is so neutral and it carries more sophistication. For office wear, you cannot go wrong by walking into work with a giraffe hand bag paired with a black suite, or a brown shirt and a blouse adds elegance to your outfit. There is no doubt that you still have that professional looking ensemble. Day, night or office, try the Giraffe print. You’ll love it!

Denim Goes “Green”

… and we’re not talking those troublesome grass stains.
The biggest concern of eco-friendly alternatives are, the generally higher, prices for the items, but finally an alternative has been made were the price does not range any higher than the brand names you’re already splurging for. Who would’ve thought it’d be jeans to revolutionize this alternative? Now you can get eco-friendly jeans from Sling & Stones, for the same price you’re paying for brands such as True Religion, Rock & Republic, Citizens of Humanity, and Seven For All Mankind.
Denim is made of cotton, which causes great damage to our environment both in terms of water consumption (7000 to 29.000 litres of water for each kilogram of ready garment) and in terms of poisonous substances and insecticides. Cotton fields stand for 25% of all insecticides worldwide! There is a lot of potential in denim production to make a different for the environment.
Sling & Stones takes advantage of that potential by introducing their eco-friendly jeans. Virtually all the jeans they sell are manufactured with this eco-friendly technology. Sling & Stones denim is made of American-grown organic Supima cotton, one of the finest and rarest natural fibers on earth. These jeans are virtually pesticide-free, unlike the average cotton jeans which contain 27% harmful chemicals.
The organic Supima fiber is spun into yarn and then hand-loomed by a small family-run Japanese mill, with some fabric taking an entire day to produce a single roll. The cost of the fabric alone is more than the entire cost of producing most other ‘premium’ jeans. The jeans are dyed with natural indigo and laundered with environmentally friendly ozone washes unlike other indigos that are made from harmful chemicals that emit into the environment.
Together they burn for social change and fashion has become their vehicle. Sling & Stones offers a socially conscious, environmentally responsible denim collection which exemplifies excellence in the everyday; hand constructed pieces featuring progressive fits, world class materials, and everyday versatility. Sling & Stones represents luxury, cutting-edge style and environmental consciousness.
Sling & Stones is setting an example for all other brand name jeans; slowly they begin to join the revolution. Levis’ luxury jeans recently begin selling these eco-friendly alternatives, and are working towards making all their jeans eco-friendly.
Eco-friendly denim is a simple way for a fashion savvy individual to contribute to the well being of the environment; not having to dish-out more of your pretty pennies is also a bonus. So put your other jeans aside, slip into some eco-friendly jeans, and know with each step you take you’re making a difference for the environment.


Fashion Journalism

Feb 3, 2008

Age of the Metrosexual

Eyes coveting. Androgyny gasping. Trend setting men infiltrating the female beauty scene, ensuring a larger market for cosmetics, and redefining the importance of male style.

Where did he come from?

Fly back to the recent past and drive the 401 headed towards Toronto Metropolitan. This is where you first passed him. Spread across the highway billboard, think of his flawless beauty: defined. Against a black and white Calvin Klein underwear Ad, Mark Walberg represented the iconic bad boy with an alluring beauty. It was the end of the disheveled era of Grunge and ‘Marky Mark’ was infiltrating the minds of followers like a storm trooper armored with a futuristic codpiece. The metro sexual was outside and on the scene, causing the bird in flight to take a second look before it stopped to preen.

Who does he think he is?

This shop till he drops girl wannabe is aesthetically pleased by the superficiality that surrounds him. He revels in the idea of sharing a new world Cabernet Merlot at the trendiest Yorkville Supper Club. He can be spotted on the tanning side of the most exposed coffee shop patio, where he sits with impeccable posture as he sips a non-fat, extra foam, hold the whip, soy delicious latte, while reading a so-called hip novel such as: The fight club, starring Brad Pitt. He is the ubermensch in every gay man’s fantasy and a convoluted dream for a lumberjacks sleeping reality. This man shares a woman’s vanity and while the two sit facing the beveled mirror he will ask:”May I borrow your file? I just broke a nail”.

What does he look like?

These men gravitate towards the modern monochromatic. Sharp tailored lines stream down their pinstripe suits as they brisk by busy Bay Street catching an occasional self image from a skyscrapers reflection. While handing a pay stub at the crystal Museum on Bloor, the ticket collector will take notice to the carefully clear coated polish glazed over his manicured finger tips. Sparring application use of hair product is applied by carefully separating every low light from high. This finishing touch creates envy for every topiary shrub while walking through the vacation destination: English Garden. Pruned, picked and plucked, his low fat, high protein diet creates sleekness to his svelte muscle toned body. He is the Adonis that an obsessive compulsive woman will desire, and the eye of envy on the cover page of Esquire.

How did this happen?

Do not be taken aback by the increasing number of Metrosexuals roaming the downtown streets. They will continue to flock as long as the cosmetic industry pumps products to sustain this desired look. And why wouldn’t they? If men can share the market for cosmetics with women, it would make sense to capitalize on expensive blemish abolishers, anti-wrinkle, age defying night creams, protein rich avocado hair conditioners, quadruple -the -power aerodynamic razors, coal eyeliner, nail polish, super-lash mascara and flawless face cover up! And what is left for the future? Will the bra re-invent itself and become: the bro-zier? Will briefs become thongs? Will panty liners become clarifying facial, toner pads?

Conversely, perhaps the metrosexual is catching up with the modern woman. A woman free to dress, act and work in an egalitarian environment. Is it possible that this form of self-expression is actually the re-birth in gender balance and understanding?

You Are What You Wear

You Are What You Wear
The plain-jane tee has moved aside to usher in a new generation of personal advertisement

Vendors have ultimately given up trying to appease the masses with the same-old, cookie-cutter pieces of clothing. Instead, they’ve looked to personal style and genre to add oodles of character to classic pieces. The traditional tee shirt is no stranger to this and has been revamped to become the voice of a new generation. Here’s a look at some of the companies who have taken the icon of staples and morphed it into a modern day representation of self.

Food for Thought
Found at a large selection of Toronto retailers, Junk Food has made it their mission to put an end to the solid, boring tee by drawing upon famous characters and slogans from an 80s childhood. Taking center stage in the graphic tee department they’ve captured the hearts of everyone from your mom to your boyfriend. Junk Food tees allow you to let the world know who or what you’re feeling that day and the mood you’re trying to channel. From their Little Miss collection to the Star Wars collection, Junk Food acts as a middleman that represents not only your personal style, but also your likes, dislikes, and favorite childhood memories.

Free As a Bird
Alongside the birth of rock ‘n roll was the birth of the graphic tee. Originally worn as statements of rebellion, beliefs, and attitudes, graphic tees have defined the art of style of some pretty famous artists throughout the years. So it seems only natural that Worn Free has made it their mission to recapture some of the greatest defining moments in musical history in the past 40 years. Pulling from 70s and 80s pop culture and the artists who claimed these decades as their own, Worn Free tees have a raw and vintage sex appeal that ultimately sets them apart. By wearing a piece of history made famous by musical legends like Debbie Harry, Frank Zappa, or Joey Ramone, you can showcase your musical taste and the defining moments that have become a part of who you are.

House of the Rising Sun
Is there one album from the past 40 years that just sums you up? For some reason, it speaks to your soul and has become an essential part of your very being? Then show it off with the help of House of the Gods graphic tees. Like Worn Free, House of the Gods centers their tees around the spirit of music and musical legends, predominantly focusing on classic albums that defined a generation. These tees allow you to relive the glory days of blue eyeshadow and Blondie, or feel the beat of the Police emblazed across your chest. The brand sets themselves apart by not only using silk-screening as their main tool, but also relying on sequins, rhinestones and colourful embellishments to amp up the volume on the message you send.

Monday, January 14, 2008

Oh, George! volume 4, number 2

Snappy (clear, direct, concise)
Flow (one common idea?)
Central theme.
Latest hairstyles; men's women's.
Witty, clever elements; humour...
Metrosexualism?
Fun.
Creative.
Keeps me interested.
General arts awareness.
Menswear.
Technical wear; latest textiles.
Planet awareness.
Pictures of what students are wearing around the school. Maybe people in malls, on the streets.
Interview recent graduates.
Photos. Lots of pictures.
More on makeup.
Interior design.

Saturday, December 08, 2007

~The Launch~

Where the magazine will be distributed...
Fashion Teachers = 50
Library(Students)= 100-150
Advertisers/Bands/Designers/Fashion Week = 25
Docks = 50
Class = 50-100

*Cafeteria Equiptment for the Launch*

Music - Songs
- Device
- Outlets

Signs

Food - Cupcakes/Cookies
- Baking
- Coffee
- Pop


*Deidre Tremblay*