Made In China
What is the real cost of a good bargain?
As technology advances, our hunger for the new and exciting item grows. Society has developed a form of “fashion ADD” and it seems that our appetites just can’t seem to be satisfied. With new seasons being created just to keep up with the pace of a never-ending demand, the competition has become fiercer than ever before. Not only have we become seekers of constant change, but also seekers of the lowest price; to compensate, of course, for the fact that there is so much more to buy. So, at what cost really is that great deal? What do we really pay for the ultimate cheap and chic find?
It is no secret that the majority of the clothing, accessories, and even food we buy are manufactured overseas. It is also no secret why. It’s much cheaper. The average North American makes no less than five dollars per hour, and that is not even close to the Canadian minimum wage, whereas in China employees make less than a dollar. The working conditions are primitive in relation to what we consider acceptable in the West. The factories are small, the hours are long and the employees are forced to live far below poverty, simply because it’s better than nothing at all. There have also been numerous accounts of abuse, including physical, verbal, and even sexual. All qualities we would not only never subject ourselves to on this side of the world, but our government as well as various other organizations protect us from such standards. While the labourers suffer, the economy of countries like China benefit from such transactions, gaining control of the international market and creating more companies and more jobs.
By paying these minimal fees, companies are able to make more products at much lower costs, drastically improving their profit and giving us the bargain we hunt for. There are many sides to this debate, especially when it comes to the fashion perspective. The retail industry is one of the leading industries in outsourcing production of its goods. It is also one of the most competitive industries with the most drastic demand for constant change in products. For example, we do not expect the food industry to import oranges from a new country every week, we do not expect a new flavour of ice cream every month, and we do not expect (and probably couldn’t afford) to buy the latest television every few months. When it comes to fashion, however, our demand changes on an almost weekly basis. New clothing companies are popping up at an increasing speed with clothing that costs less and less. We are also quickly bored, and will call an item dated almost as fast as our produce expires.
The speed of our taste is greatly reflected in our ever-changing, rapid-paced society. After all, we in the West like to consider ourselves as being advanced. We are the “free” people. We are the hungry, the rich, the powerful, and we want it all. No task is too great and nothing is inaccessible. This mentality defines the way we live, think, and act. Despite the great rising in social consciousness, our constant desires are hard to contain. We do want to save the world, but only after we pop in to H&M for a quick browse, and possibly a purchase. We want to fight AIDS in Africa, so we buy a “made in China” t-shirt from the Gap. It is a vicious cycle, especially when one is on a budget.
So, what can we do, and are we ready to do it? Without the use of overseas labour, prices would drastically rise. Potential quantity of production would also probably decrease. This is assuming that it is even a possibility. Without a nationwide agreement to end, or control, outsourced production, capitalism will inevitably prevail. The action would have to be made at a global level, so that there are no loopholes and no possibility of any company indulging in cheap labour, which would discard all positive action. Or, companies can pay higher wages to overseas workers. This option opens up a whole new plethora of questions and debate. How will the country react/be affected by such a change. And, why would they not then hire workers in their own country? Are we helping other countries by supporting, though minimally, their economy? Or, are we abusing other countries and taking advantage of the low-costs they provide us?
Ultimately it is up to us (the people, the fashion-lovers, the citizens) to decide for ourselves where we stand on the subject. Though it can often be easy to judge and point fingers, it is a complicated topic with no quick solution. We want to save the world, we want justice and freedom and equality, but we have a price limit. Creating a global change and a “perfect” society takes a lot of personal sacrifice, but we live in a world where we are raised and trained to look out for number one. We have gotten used to the luxuries of the Western world, and it is sometimes easier to turn a blind eye to the problems seemingly far removed from us when it conflicts with what we want. On the other hand, just because we can’t see it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. These problems are real. Unlike Santa or the Easter Bunny, unfair working conditions exist. Everyday people are exploited to support the increasing demand for profit. As much as we may hate to admit it, sometimes when the dress is that cute, it can be really easy to ignore that tag that reads, “made in China”.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Feature Article Assignment
The Reality of it All!
Fame, Fortune or just plain old Fantasy,
What will life on a reality show really get you?
Reality shows have taken over the prime time airways of our television sets, popping out instant professionals on a weekly basis. Shows like Project Runway, Americas Next Top Model and Hell’s Kitchen create instant celebrities out of ordinary people who have yet to make a name fo
r themselves in their chosen field. Although the popularity of these people grow to immense and sometimes obsessed quantities during the duration of the shows running time, what happens to them when their cut from the program or, as said by the host of Project Runway, Iman, they ‘just don’t measure up’? Fame, Fortune or just plain old Fantasy,
What will life on a reality show really get you?
Reality shows have taken over the prime time airways of our television sets, popping out instant professionals on a weekly basis. Shows like Project Runway, Americas Next Top Model and Hell’s Kitchen create instant celebrities out of ordinary people who have yet to make a name fo
How does a thirteen-week stint on a television set actually prepare a person for the demands of the real world? Is it fair to allow these people to propel to fame at the expense of hard-working ‘up-and-comers’ who work for years to achieve recognition for their efforts? How do practiced workers receive these ‘professional wannabes’ when they attempt to begin their post-television careers? How are they able to have a high profile career and yet maintain the quality of their work and the attitudes towards the importance of hard work?
The term “Reality Television” is a very broad name given to television programming, according to Wikipedia.org it‘presents purportedly unscripted dramatic or humorous situations, documents actual events, and features ordinary people instead of professional actors.’ Reality television can then be broken down into several genres of reality programming. There are eight different categories of Reality shows. The two most prominent being Documentary-style shows, and Elimination/Game shows. Documentary style shows are then broken down to programming that includes special living environmens, such as the Real World; celebrity reality shows, such as The Osbournes or The Simple Life; and Professional activities, examples being Cops, LA Ink and The First 48. These types of reality shows basically follow the lives of the characters in the program, and use the entertaining bits captured on film to create a series. Elimination or Game shows use compitition to draw in their audience. There are dating based competitions, as in The Bachelor, or Average Joe; fear-centric games shows such as Fear Factor, and there are job search shows, which are the variety of reality television that produces their version of career celebrities, as in America’s/Canada’s Next Top Model, producing a spanking new supermodel, or Project Runway, which produces the ‘next big thing’ in the fashion design circit.
How does being a contestant on these types of programs prepare a person for the full time career of not only say, designer, but also the celebrity of being a television star? During the months of taping these productions the participating contestants are given a number of tasks to complete, and challenges to surpass. These challenges are meant to simulate problems that may arise in the day-to-day of a careered person in that chosen field. The winner to the challenges is awarded a luxury prize to reward their winning efforts and the rest of the contestents are left with a feeling of self-doubt and lack of worth. Each week a contestant is removed from the competition, and the chance of winning the grand prize, generally being a contract with a top company in the field, exposure in a popular media source, and funding to help jump-start their career. With the offering all of these great gifts for the winner, its a sure bet that these people will be successive, Or is it?
Project Runway Winners, Jay McCarroll (season 1), Chloe Dao (season 2) and Jeffrey Sebelia (season 3) have each gone on to produce post-Project Runway collections, however for Jay McCarroll, it was on his own budget, with his own contacts, and with proceeds going straight back to his wallet. McCarroll decided post-show not to accept the offer of the gifts, when he found that there was ‘a contractual clause stipulating that the Project Runway production company would own a 10% stake of all his professional ventures in perpetuity.’
Chloe Dao and Jeffrey Sebelia took the gifts and are now working on expanding their own businesses, although Sebelia admits that once he paid off the debt he had aquired by creating his clothing label, Cosa Nostra, his winnings were gone and he was flat broke. Currently he is making a living by creating costumes for the children’s movie, Bratz. Something he is fairly embarassed to admit to, but one that pays the bills.
This is just one example of the results of a reality television program, there have been records of success being achieved from these shows, such is the case of ‘The Bachelorette’, Trista Rehn, she went on to marry her Bachelorette co-star Ryan Sutter, and the couple has recently welcomed their first child. Another example is Canada’s Next Top Model, Rebecca Hardy, who can be seen walking all of the hottest runways, and lining all the most fashionable magazines. All of this being post-reality television success. It seems that the end result of these shows can generally be narrowed down to the following: The Fantasy of a career jump-start due to the exposure of the person’s talents performed on the reality show, while also boosting their popularity and reputation within their career’s community. The Fortune they dream of being able the earn by the masses and masses of people who will be interested in the services they provide; and the Fame, being the popularity the show will allow them to enjoy as they soar leaps and bounds above the competition by using dramatic character plots and multiple personalities. Out of these three conclusions of a reality tv show, not a single one seems to hold up much longer then the air time of the programming. Leaving contestants broken and loathing in self pity, trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered careers. So heres my question: Where is the real in the reality?
The term “Reality Television” is a very broad name given to television programming, according to Wikipedia.org it‘presents purportedly unscripted dramatic or humorous situations, documents actual events, and features ordinary people instead of professional actors.’ Reality television can then be broken down into several genres of reality programming. There are eight different categories of Reality shows. The two most prominent being Documentary-style shows, and Elimination/Game shows. Documentary style shows are then broken down to programming that includes special living environmens, such as the Real World; celebrity reality shows, such as The Osbournes or The Simple Life; and Professional activities, examples being Cops, LA Ink and The First 48. These types of reality shows basically follow the lives of the characters in the program, and use the entertaining bits captured on film to create a series. Elimination or Game shows use compitition to draw in their audience. There are dating based competitions, as in The Bachelor, or Average Joe; fear-centric games shows such as Fear Factor, and there are job search shows, which are the variety of reality television that produces their version of career celebrities, as in America’s/Canada’s Next Top Model, producing a spanking new supermodel, or Project Runway, which produces the ‘next big thing’ in the fashion design circit.
How does being a contestant on these types of programs prepare a person for the full time career of not only say, designer, but also the celebrity of being a television star? During the months of taping these productions the participating contestants are given a number of tasks to complete, and challenges to surpass. These challenges are meant to simulate problems that may arise in the day-to-day of a careered person in that chosen field. The winner to the challenges is awarded a luxury prize to reward their winning efforts and the rest of the contestents are left with a feeling of self-doubt and lack of worth. Each week a contestant is removed from the competition, and the chance of winning the grand prize, generally being a contract with a top company in the field, exposure in a popular media source, and funding to help jump-start their career. With the offering all of these great gifts for the winner, its a sure bet that these people will be successive, Or is it?
Project Runway Winners, Jay McCarroll (season 1), Chloe Dao (season 2) and Jeffrey Sebelia (season 3) have each gone on to produce post-Project Runway collections, however for Jay McCarroll, it was on his own budget, with his own contacts, and with proceeds going straight back to his wallet. McCarroll decided post-show not to accept the offer of the gifts, when he found that there was ‘a contractual clause stipulating that the Project Runway production company would own a 10% stake of all his professional ventures in perpetuity.’
Chloe Dao and Jeffrey Sebelia took the gifts and are now working on expanding their own businesses, although Sebelia admits that once he paid off the debt he had aquired by creating his clothing label, Cosa Nostra, his winnings were gone and he was flat broke. Currently he is making a living by creating costumes for the children’s movie, Bratz. Something he is fairly embarassed to admit to, but one that pays the bills.
This is just one example of the results of a reality television program, there have been records of success being achieved from these shows, such is the case of ‘The Bachelorette’, Trista Rehn, she went on to marry her Bachelorette co-star Ryan Sutter, and the couple has recently welcomed their first child. Another example is Canada’s Next Top Model, Rebecca Hardy, who can be seen walking all of the hottest runways, and lining all the most fashionable magazines. All of this being post-reality television success. It seems that the end result of these shows can generally be narrowed down to the following: The Fantasy of a career jump-start due to the exposure of the person’s talents performed on the reality show, while also boosting their popularity and reputation within their career’s community. The Fortune they dream of being able the earn by the masses and masses of people who will be interested in the services they provide; and the Fame, being the popularity the show will allow them to enjoy as they soar leaps and bounds above the competition by using dramatic character plots and multiple personalities. Out of these three conclusions of a reality tv show, not a single one seems to hold up much longer then the air time of the programming. Leaving contestants broken and loathing in self pity, trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered careers. So heres my question: Where is the real in the reality?
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Friday, October 19, 2007
Sartorial group
Hey guys,
Could everyone who's interested in taking pictures please send me your email address so I can send you the permission form, I figure that will be the easiest way to get it to everyone in a timely manner. Take as many pictures as you can and we'll bring them all together the second week back after reading week and decide which ones should be in the magazine. Thanks guys!
Laura
Could everyone who's interested in taking pictures please send me your email address so I can send you the permission form, I figure that will be the easiest way to get it to everyone in a timely manner. Take as many pictures as you can and we'll bring them all together the second week back after reading week and decide which ones should be in the magazine. Thanks guys!
Laura
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Circulation & Distribution
Hey Ladies.....
I was wondering if anyone has set up a circulation team, Im really interested I have some awesome ideas of places. I know there was a post a while ago about circulation, but im not sure whos involved, let me know what I can do, and we can talk next class.
Ashley Soutar
I was wondering if anyone has set up a circulation team, Im really interested I have some awesome ideas of places. I know there was a post a while ago about circulation, but im not sure whos involved, let me know what I can do, and we can talk next class.
Ashley Soutar
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Sartorial group
Hey guys,
This post is for the group who's taking pictures of people with wicked style. I was supposed to make up a permission form to give you guys to have your subjects sign before you take their photo, but I completely forgot...I'm so sorry! I will make that up tonight and hopefully I will see most of you at school tomorrow. Nobody will probably be taking pictures next week since it's reading week, so if not tomorrow, then the first week back I will hunt you guys down and hand them out then. Sorry again friends. Talk soon.
Laura
This post is for the group who's taking pictures of people with wicked style. I was supposed to make up a permission form to give you guys to have your subjects sign before you take their photo, but I completely forgot...I'm so sorry! I will make that up tonight and hopefully I will see most of you at school tomorrow. Nobody will probably be taking pictures next week since it's reading week, so if not tomorrow, then the first week back I will hunt you guys down and hand them out then. Sorry again friends. Talk soon.
Laura
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
The Simple Bare Necessities
Every woman has a closet filled with clothing from throughout the eras, different fads and fashions long passed and current. Why clutter your closet with fashion statements that change as quickly as a woman can change her mind? Why not fill your closet with items that never go out of style. These are the 10 essentials that should complete every woman’s closet.
The Little Black Dress
Sexy, classic, and always in style-these 3 words perfectly define the little black dress. The LBD is essential for an evening out on the town or to be worn to a gala. It is always dependable and always chic.
The Trench Coat
The trench coat is a great way to keep your outfit versatile and polished. Wear it with anything and change your outfit from drab to glam!
The Staple Blue Jean
An absolute comfort pant, the one item you can always rely on. Wear them with heels or running shoes, these jeans are the perfect wash and cut and fit you in all the right places.
The Classic Dress Pant
Smart and stylish is how you would describe these pants. Wear it with any outfit; these pants are interchangeable with any outfit. This is a great look that can take you straight from the office to a night out with your girlfriends.
The Khaki Pant
A little fancier than your blue jeans but more casual than your dress pant, this item of clothing is neutral and can be worn throughout every season.
The Seamless Knee Length Skirt
This skirt can be worn to the office instead of a pantsuit or it can be worn out and about. This skirt can make you feel feminine and sexy without showing off too much skin.
The White Blouse
The white blouse is a classic piece. It can be worn with any outfit and is very versatile. Wear it dressed up or dressed down, accessorized or worn alone. This white blouse always looks great.
The Black Pump
These are an absolute must in every woman’s closet. The black pump is your pair of transitional shoes. They will take you from day to night without ever having to take them off.
The Sneaker
Wear them on a casual stroll or to the gym, this shoe is a great way to look dressed down without looking sloppy. It is a youthful look and finding one to fit your personality will be a cinch.
The Leather Bag
This purse will always look amazing. It can be worn during the day or at night. It is a staple in your closet one you can fit the kitchen sink and more into it.
With this list of items in your closet you should never have a problem finding something to wear. Wear them together or separately these essentials will be in style forever. Reinvent them with accessories and handbags and you will never have a problem staying in style and looking well dressed.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Service Piece
Become a fashion forward fashionista!
Boutiques around Toronto that will have everyone staring-at you!
With so many trend setters, looking chic and original can be a tough job in the city. Look no further for one of a kind and limited edition pieces from the hottest boutiques in Toronto! We have searched high and low for the best quality, styles and looks exclusively for the fashion forward clientele of Toronto. Each boutique offers something wonderful and exquisite to enhance your wardrobe and compliment your style!
Looking for a funky, one of a kind shoe that will have everyone’s head turning? Balisi is the store for you! Only the best in leather and suede from London, Portugal and Spain your feet will thank you for entering one of the hottest boutiques in Little Italy! Carrying brands such as Colcci, Fly London and Portia, fashion and comfort will soon find your feet. Whether you are chic, modern, woman or a student studying to become the next Donatella Versace, Balisi will make your feet sparkle.
Tired of seeing the girl across from you on the subway wearing your same necklace? Look no further! Located on Queen Street West, Made you Look is an independent jewelry making facility with 12 self employed jewelry designers who manufacture on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Offering every piece of jewelry you could imagine, Made you Look has something for every taste, gender and budget. The Jewelry is made from numerous materials including glass, wood, feathers and silver. Not only is this jewelry boutique trendy, it also caters to the classy, business woman. The owners have expanded their sales to the internet and now you can shop in the comfort of your own home for that one of a kind fabulous accessory everyone will be talking about!
Whether you want a party dress or business clothes, Boa is the boutique for you! Opened in 2001 by twin sisters, Boa targets to the fashion forward, price conscious and chic urban female. Their pieces transition from business day to party night. The use of bold prints, satin cocktail dresses and gorgeous wool sweaters are only the beginning to this unique boutique. Their collection comes from Los Angeles, Montreal and they even carry local designers. Impress your colleagues, friends and everyone on the street with this one stop boutique shop!
Handbags anyone? Girl Friday not only carries great clothes, they carry beautiful, unique handbags. Imported from overseas, Girl Friday offers the season’s hottest colors and styles. Stocking limited amounts, you won’t likely see anyone around Toronto wearing your new shoulder candy! Prices are moderately ranged and the quality is exceptional-especially for those fashion savvy students who use their handbag as a book bag! Located on Queen West and in Little Italy, Girl Friday clearly caters to the trendy, stylish and well dressed females of Toronto!
Boutiques around Toronto that will have everyone staring-at you!
With so many trend setters, looking chic and original can be a tough job in the city. Look no further for one of a kind and limited edition pieces from the hottest boutiques in Toronto! We have searched high and low for the best quality, styles and looks exclusively for the fashion forward clientele of Toronto. Each boutique offers something wonderful and exquisite to enhance your wardrobe and compliment your style!
Looking for a funky, one of a kind shoe that will have everyone’s head turning? Balisi is the store for you! Only the best in leather and suede from London, Portugal and Spain your feet will thank you for entering one of the hottest boutiques in Little Italy! Carrying brands such as Colcci, Fly London and Portia, fashion and comfort will soon find your feet. Whether you are chic, modern, woman or a student studying to become the next Donatella Versace, Balisi will make your feet sparkle.
Tired of seeing the girl across from you on the subway wearing your same necklace? Look no further! Located on Queen Street West, Made you Look is an independent jewelry making facility with 12 self employed jewelry designers who manufacture on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Offering every piece of jewelry you could imagine, Made you Look has something for every taste, gender and budget. The Jewelry is made from numerous materials including glass, wood, feathers and silver. Not only is this jewelry boutique trendy, it also caters to the classy, business woman. The owners have expanded their sales to the internet and now you can shop in the comfort of your own home for that one of a kind fabulous accessory everyone will be talking about!
Whether you want a party dress or business clothes, Boa is the boutique for you! Opened in 2001 by twin sisters, Boa targets to the fashion forward, price conscious and chic urban female. Their pieces transition from business day to party night. The use of bold prints, satin cocktail dresses and gorgeous wool sweaters are only the beginning to this unique boutique. Their collection comes from Los Angeles, Montreal and they even carry local designers. Impress your colleagues, friends and everyone on the street with this one stop boutique shop!
Handbags anyone? Girl Friday not only carries great clothes, they carry beautiful, unique handbags. Imported from overseas, Girl Friday offers the season’s hottest colors and styles. Stocking limited amounts, you won’t likely see anyone around Toronto wearing your new shoulder candy! Prices are moderately ranged and the quality is exceptional-especially for those fashion savvy students who use their handbag as a book bag! Located on Queen West and in Little Italy, Girl Friday clearly caters to the trendy, stylish and well dressed females of Toronto!
Friday, October 12, 2007
Music Reviewers Only!!!
Good afternoon people!! I just wanted to let all the music reviewers know about a few things actually.
First off, I got the band to agree that I was talking about. They said, and I quote, "We'd be totally stoked for that. Thanks for thinking of us!" So they're in. Also, I'm getting a picture from them. It's definitely in the works.
Second, in order to get the ball rolling, we need some questions. Just a set of 4 or 5 questions (not unlike the George In The City format) to send out to our respective bands. Now I don't know if anyone's opposed to emailing them, but I'm all for it (seeing as it's the only way I'll get to them in time).
Lastly, I can't remember her name off the top of my head, but there was a girl who wanted to be part of this too, and that's totally great. Basically what we decided was to do a quick interview/review on a band of the underground variety. We're sick of magazines telling us that Justin Timberlake has a new CD out and we need to buy it. Everyone knows!! So we decided we wanted to introduce our readers to a different level of music. So far, I've got a rock/alternative group, Lisa's got a hip hop type group, and I can't remember if Sam told us what she was doing. We're trying to mix it up anyways. The reviews will be about 100 words in length, seeing as we have to fit 4 on one page. :( And I don't know if we'll be able to get 4 pics on the page, but that's what we're aiming for.
So ladies, we need some ideas for questions. ANYONE MAY SUGGEST QUESTIONS however, we will have the final word.
Ciao!!!
Stephanie
First off, I got the band to agree that I was talking about. They said, and I quote, "We'd be totally stoked for that. Thanks for thinking of us!" So they're in. Also, I'm getting a picture from them. It's definitely in the works.
Second, in order to get the ball rolling, we need some questions. Just a set of 4 or 5 questions (not unlike the George In The City format) to send out to our respective bands. Now I don't know if anyone's opposed to emailing them, but I'm all for it (seeing as it's the only way I'll get to them in time).
Lastly, I can't remember her name off the top of my head, but there was a girl who wanted to be part of this too, and that's totally great. Basically what we decided was to do a quick interview/review on a band of the underground variety. We're sick of magazines telling us that Justin Timberlake has a new CD out and we need to buy it. Everyone knows!! So we decided we wanted to introduce our readers to a different level of music. So far, I've got a rock/alternative group, Lisa's got a hip hop type group, and I can't remember if Sam told us what she was doing. We're trying to mix it up anyways. The reviews will be about 100 words in length, seeing as we have to fit 4 on one page. :( And I don't know if we'll be able to get 4 pics on the page, but that's what we're aiming for.
So ladies, we need some ideas for questions. ANYONE MAY SUGGEST QUESTIONS however, we will have the final word.
Ciao!!!
Stephanie
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
How To Dress for Less, Without Breaking the Bank
Doesn’t it seem like these days it is all too effortless to go to the mall and spend way more than you had originally budgeted for, or an outfit that you thought was going to cost half of your pay cheque turns out to be double? If these scenarios seem all too familiar, than you need to put down your credit card and forget your debit pin for a few minutes and take the time to read this article and let us help you stop breaking the bank and to start dressing for less, while still keeping in touch with what is the latest trend.
We are constantly being influenced from what we see on TV and in magazines to the enormous; in your face billboards of what are currently trendy in today’s fashion forward society. Trendsetters from actors to musicians are constantly setting the bar of what is currently popular and what we should be wearing, everywhere from their jewelry to their shoes. But why can’t we look the same without putting a huge dent in our chequebooks? The answer is we can. With a generous amount of time and a trained eye for bargains, any fashionista is capable of finding the trendiest look for a fraction of the cost.
A handbag to a woman is like a hockey stick to a game, it is an essential key component to an outfit. Handbags, such as the classic clutch are what every girl needs to add that va-va voom to their outfit. Sienna Miller was recently spotted with a jewel embedded black clutch, retailing for approximately $400, however you can get the exact same look from Aldo Accessories for $40 and still have money left over to buy it in more than one colour.
For the cooler days of the fall, every girl must be seen with a Miss Porter’s Peacoat. Nothing says “Fashion Forward” more than the comfortable, yet sleek look, of a confident woman, bundled up in her fall attire more. Urban Outfitters carries the latest trends found in all the up-to-date fashion magazines and the Peacoat is defiantly a fashion must for their fall selection. The jacket fits “true to size” and comes in a variety of shabby chic colors, retailing at $125.
The crew neck sweater has gone and come back for this seasons look once again. Angelina Jolie was spotted walking in Central Park, cozied up in her earth tone, oversized sweatshirt from Channel. The exact same sweater, in the exact same color is available at Old Navy for $29.99 and looks fabulous paired up with a long-dark pair of skinny jeans of your choice.
And finally, a fabulous boot is the best way to rev up your shoe closet this year. Last week, on the runway of Dolce & Gabbana nothing was bolder than the antique military style boots, with doubled-sided decorative ‘DG’ embedded buttons up the side of the boots. Nine West has an exact replica of the same boot costing ¼ of the price, featured online and also available in stores. But girls beware; one step in that store and you may splurge on more than you bargained for.
As you can see with a little bit of help and a push in the right direction, any girl is capable of dressing her best without having to break a sweat over it. Shopping should be a form of relaxation, instead of a pain in the butt. Take the time to shop around and give yourself enough options to compare prices instead of signing your life away. And trust me, if the celebrities weren’t so famous, I bet they would be reading this too! Shop ‘till you drop!
Doesn’t it seem like these days it is all too effortless to go to the mall and spend way more than you had originally budgeted for, or an outfit that you thought was going to cost half of your pay cheque turns out to be double? If these scenarios seem all too familiar, than you need to put down your credit card and forget your debit pin for a few minutes and take the time to read this article and let us help you stop breaking the bank and to start dressing for less, while still keeping in touch with what is the latest trend.
We are constantly being influenced from what we see on TV and in magazines to the enormous; in your face billboards of what are currently trendy in today’s fashion forward society. Trendsetters from actors to musicians are constantly setting the bar of what is currently popular and what we should be wearing, everywhere from their jewelry to their shoes. But why can’t we look the same without putting a huge dent in our chequebooks? The answer is we can. With a generous amount of time and a trained eye for bargains, any fashionista is capable of finding the trendiest look for a fraction of the cost.
A handbag to a woman is like a hockey stick to a game, it is an essential key component to an outfit. Handbags, such as the classic clutch are what every girl needs to add that va-va voom to their outfit. Sienna Miller was recently spotted with a jewel embedded black clutch, retailing for approximately $400, however you can get the exact same look from Aldo Accessories for $40 and still have money left over to buy it in more than one colour.
For the cooler days of the fall, every girl must be seen with a Miss Porter’s Peacoat. Nothing says “Fashion Forward” more than the comfortable, yet sleek look, of a confident woman, bundled up in her fall attire more. Urban Outfitters carries the latest trends found in all the up-to-date fashion magazines and the Peacoat is defiantly a fashion must for their fall selection. The jacket fits “true to size” and comes in a variety of shabby chic colors, retailing at $125.
The crew neck sweater has gone and come back for this seasons look once again. Angelina Jolie was spotted walking in Central Park, cozied up in her earth tone, oversized sweatshirt from Channel. The exact same sweater, in the exact same color is available at Old Navy for $29.99 and looks fabulous paired up with a long-dark pair of skinny jeans of your choice.
And finally, a fabulous boot is the best way to rev up your shoe closet this year. Last week, on the runway of Dolce & Gabbana nothing was bolder than the antique military style boots, with doubled-sided decorative ‘DG’ embedded buttons up the side of the boots. Nine West has an exact replica of the same boot costing ¼ of the price, featured online and also available in stores. But girls beware; one step in that store and you may splurge on more than you bargained for.
As you can see with a little bit of help and a push in the right direction, any girl is capable of dressing her best without having to break a sweat over it. Shopping should be a form of relaxation, instead of a pain in the butt. Take the time to shop around and give yourself enough options to compare prices instead of signing your life away. And trust me, if the celebrities weren’t so famous, I bet they would be reading this too! Shop ‘till you drop!
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Horoscopes and/or Fashion do's & don'ts
Hey everyone,
I am very interested in doing horoscopes and/or fashion do's and dont's for the magazine. Let me know what you guys think. Also if anyone else is interested in helping out please let me know! I would love the help.
Thanks,
-Sam.
I am very interested in doing horoscopes and/or fashion do's and dont's for the magazine. Let me know what you guys think. Also if anyone else is interested in helping out please let me know! I would love the help.
Thanks,
-Sam.
WOOFing GOOD
WOOF-ing GOOD!
How to get your PAWS on the perfect pet-wear.
Finding pet-wear for your dog can be a challenge, especially with all of the choices available in an ever- growing market. Although many of these pieces are extremely eye-catching, the practicality and safety features of the item should be taken into account when making a decision about what to put on your pet.
Fabric and Function
The first thing that is an attention grabber when it comes to doggie jackets is the overall appearance of the piece. Finding an appropriate fabric to put on your pet is the first thing to consider. Is your pet sensitive to the elements? Do they have allergies to anything? If the materials used in his new digs irritate Rover’s skin, chances are they wont stay on for long, and if they do, you may be looking at vet bills to clear up his itchy skin. A good route to take when looking for pet-wear is to look for natural fabrics, such as cotton or wool, on the inside layer of the clothing. This will ensure ventilation and breath ability while still focusing on insulation. By having a natural fabric on the inside, virtually any fabric can be used as an outer shell, increasing the options for patterns and adornments. A water-repellant type of fabric is a good option, especially for a dog that doesn’t enjoy the rain. Ensuring the jackets main properties are practical makes it easier on the dog, and gives you plenty of ways to show the world the personality inside of the pooch!
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are important to consider when picking out the perfect outfit. You want to make sure that the dog has enough room to move around comfortably without tripping, and that he has a proper opening for him to ‘relieve himself’ when need be. By properly measuring your pet beforehand, you will be able to find something that they will like to wear just as much as you like to see it on them.
Measuring Guide
Here is a quick guide to measuring your dog for a garment. (#1) Back length. Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. (#2) Neck circumference. Measure around the base of the neck, where the collar sits. (#3) Chest circumference. Measure around the chest at its widest point. (#4) Chest front. Measure across the chest, shoulder to shoulder. (#5) Waist Circumference. Measure around the dog’s waist, just below the ribcage.
By having accurate measurements, you are much more likely to end up with a final product that fits your dogs needs, as dog shapes vary to an extreme degree.
Pet Safety
One thing people tend to overlook when playing ‘dress-up’ with their pets is safety. Dogs do not have the ability to undo latches and get themselves out of sticky situations, so before you purchase an item, consider a few things to ensure your dog will be able to avoid choking or another deadly situation. Start by looking at the openings of the garment. They need to be big enough for your dog to easily slip its head and paws through for a quick escape. The other thing to look at is the closure type. Is it a zipper? Dogs can’t undo them if you’re not around. The best way to go is a strong Velcro, or a fit that enables the dog to slip out of the jacket to avoid strangulation. Be cautious when purchasing your pets new clothes. It could mean life or death to your cherished pet.
Although there are tons of options and lots of things to consider, dressing up your dog can be fun as well as practical. Who doesn’t love to be warm and cozy in the middle of winter, or be able to stay dry while playing in the rain? Not only is pet-wear cute, but also it is a must for the Canadian climate. So get out there and GO FETCH!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)