Green...The New Black?

Taking a look into the
trend of ‘going green’

Eco-chic. Green fashionista. All-natural. Biodegradable. These have all become common terms and slang in today’s eco-conscious culture, what with the growing awareness –and, quite frankly, popularity- associated with ‘going green’ and saving the planet (which isn’t a bad thing!). So to all of you environmentally-conscious fashionistas and trend setters alike, I’ve got to ask…how green are you really?
Some people may respond with a passionate ‘very much so’, others might reply somewhere on the other end of the spectrum. So you don’t wash your jeans that often- conserving water, you may say- but do you know how that t-shirt of yours was made? Exactly.
It’s chic to be green, and don’t we all just want to fit in, but how do you really define the term?
Green. It can be described in many ways, and as many different things. To be ‘green’ is to be eco-chic, or rather to be environmentally-conscious, while maintaining style. Everybody has their own definition of it though, from living a completely eco-friendly life (also known as ‘being green’), to the colour some people turn while at sea, it can vary depending on who you are talking to.
According to a 2009 report by Ottawa-based TerraChoice,an environmental marketing firm, the average number of ‘green’ products on store shelves in Canada and the U.S. had almost tripled from 2006- 2008. That’s quite a short amount of time. This increase is most likely caused by society’s trend to be eco-friendly, and the increasing demand that consumers have for these types of products, which in turn would lead companies to produce more products with a ‘green’ label.
Our society today is so obsessed with trends and the latest ‘it’ style, and ‘going green’ is no exception. Although some people might be missing the bigger picture at hand, and are more interested in the idea of being eco-friendly or sporting environmentally-friendly fashions than they’re interested in the actual purpose of it all. We as a society have adapted to following trends like we follow the latest celebrity gossip; ‘being green’ may be just another way of conforming to the latest fad. And when you are more concerned with the latest trend- in this case being considered a ‘green’ member of society- it could take the focus away from the cause itself, and although you may think you’re doing your part in the green movement, if you take a step back you just might realize that you aren’t as environmentally-friendly as you thought you were.
Carrying reusable bags and bringing your own travel mug versus the plastic and paper versions respectively, is a good thing, yes. It might even get you a nod of approval from most who respect the conservation of resources. However, purchasing clothing and accessories that have been produced using harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, were manufactured using excessive amounts of water and chemicals, and have been transported inefficiently may be counter-acting your efforts with that bag and cup of yours.
By purchasing products that were made in not so eco-friendly processes, such as in factories that irresponsibly dispose of their waste water, or have excessive amounts of waste materials left over, you’re almost supporting the anti-environment group. Being misinformed is just as harmful to the environment, as it can lead you to buy what is believed to be environmentally safe or produced sustainably, but which in fact may have no supporting evidence. Greenwash or greenwashing, known as ‘a superficial or insincere display of concern for the environment that is shown by an organization’, according to the Collins English Dictionary (2009), is something that you need to be aware of as a consumer. False eco-friendly claims or inaccurate environmentally-safe practices by companies are something you want to avoid.
To ensure you’re sporting responsible fashion, check your labels or do your homework on the company. If it has a BCI (Better Cotton Initiatives), FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council), or EcoLogo certification, you’re one step closer to becoming a ‘green’ shopper!
Following the craze of ‘going green’ doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your style or succumb to the hippie-esque methods of personal hygiene though. It used to be tough for consumers to find stylish, environmentally-conscious clothing and accessories at an affordable price. But don’t fret! This is no longer the case! Many of today’s retailers are making the decision to practice more sustainable processes of producing and supplying their products.
Take H&M for example. Their Conscious* line, featuring recycled polyester shirts and dresses, woven organic hemp and silk shoes, and organic cotton skirts are all as on trend as the next poly blend dress out there. American Apparel, another favourite of many, also carries a
sustainable line ‘Sustainable Edition’, which uses 100% organic cotton. And for those of you that really like to see results, check out Levi Strauss & Co.’s Water For those of you looking for a cosmetic fix, bath and beauty favourites Burt’s Bees and Lush are also committed to producing all-natural products that are produced in sustainable ways.
So, dear stylish one, are you as green as you thought? Have you checked your labels lately? Or are you just taking part of the ‘green’ trend because it’s simply that, another trend? Here today, gone tomorrow, respecting the environment and making responsible (and fashionable!) choices is something that we all need to be more aware of, before these valuable resources
are just that: gone tomorrow.

Developing a Fashionable Moon

An interview with young, Business Development Manager, Corey Niddam.

Corey Niddam, a 23-year old aspiring business developer, came to working in the family business of fast-fashion. Being cousins to the Mimran family, Corey shares his experience as a Production Manager for Alfred Sung International Sourcing and tells us a little bit about his new position as well as the competition that is dealt when up against other relatives

Oh, George: Describe your position.

CN: I work with a team of merchandisers. Currently working as the lead-on for Moon’s Men line at The Bay as well as working with moon ladies. My first season was last Holiday. It’s cool to see!

OG: What is a typical day like for you?

CN: I’ll usually start with development first, looking at fabric swatches approvals, any outstanding approvals, clearing out any outstanding things to do. We live and die by the ‘work in progress report’ which is basically an internal report that has a status of all of the things we need to keep track of in terms of development and production. So, that’s available on one paper that we need to update constantly. Then, we go into production. In terms of production, we need to make sure everything is on time. Ensuring our Q.C’s (quality control) are in the place they need to be and most importantly, to ensure we meet our ship dates and our obligations to our retailer which is, The Bay.

OG: What are some assets one must possess to be successful in this position?

CN: Good communicator, problem solver, quick on your feet. I can’t stress being a clear communicator enough. You need to know what you’re talking about and how to direct people to what they need. You need to be able to translate information, process it and, send it out but as clear and concise as possible. Being a big team player is huge. If you can think you can do it on your own, it is impossible. To have a good general background of the industry from your Fashion Management program will also definitely help you. If you’re passionate about it, it is the place to be.

OG: What are some of the advantages of working with a smaller company such as the Moon line?

CN: Having to work with a close group, you get feedback and a chance to make mistakes. They obviously oversea a mistake before it grows into a larger one but, I’d say having to work in the environment I’m currently in, I get to not only see everyone else's perspective but actually work in other areas as well. It’s valuable to be able to add versatility to your work ethics and that’s one part of the job that I love most.

OG: You grew up in a very entrepreneurial environment. Tell me a bit about it.

CN: I’m very fortunate to have a very entrepreneurial family. I love business. I took business courses and blended it with other courses, taking what I wanted and needed to know from University rather than focusing in on a specific. If I couldn’t find a job, I’d make my own job!

OG: Was it known from the get-go that you’d be a part of the family business?

CN: I had a choice as to what I wanted to do. This really interested me because moon the line was very young and it was a chance to be a part of something at the inception. I’m not going to say I’m a ‘fashionista’ by any point, but I do like the business in terms of the sourcing and working overseas and going to seeing factories. I’ve been around that for a long time. My family is all in international business, sourcing. My cousins started Joe Fresh and done Club Monaco so I’ve been around this for a very long time. If you were to ask me 5 years ago if this is what I thought I’d be doing--probably not. It’s been a very rewarding experience, I’m glad to play an instrumental part in putting someones’ vision of making something reality.

OG: What would you recommend one to do to better themself and eliminate competition?

CN: If you’re really serious, learn Mandarin. It is so important and respectful to be able to communicate with the people you are working with. Cultural literacy is very important for the business. They’ll respect you for formal things to do and not to do. I went with my dad across seas for the first time and got to learn. Don’t be afraid to do your own research and of course excel in school. Think outside the box, that’s what people need. We live in a very exciting world with many different outlets whether or not you can find a job, create your own job!

OG: Explain how team work is crucial in your business.

CN: Its multiple teams. Your team needs to be able to communicate with other teams. Communication is very important and just hard work. Especially now, there’s a ton of people who are willing to do what you want to do so when you are fighting for experience, you need to embrace as much as you can and show them that you are willing to do whatever it is that you can possibly do and you’ll get rewarded.

No one respects you if you go into work with a superego. My cousins are the designers and I am constantly having to prove everybody else wrong since I’ve been fortunate enough to have this opportunity but it has been a lot of hard work.

OG: What advice would you give someone that is interested in the fashion industry?

CN: Be persistent. A lot of people are going to tell you to help yourself or initially give you the helping hand you need but if you are a) patient and b) very persistent and show them that you are committed and if given an opportunity, don’t let it go to waste. Don’t be discouraged. You do a lot of hard work and it seems like it’s never ending which, in fact, it isn’t. Be determined and don’t hold back and be willing to work long hours and earn your strips because that’s the only way to be respected. A lot of people in the industry have been doing it for a long time and you need to be able to go above and beyond. Don’t expect people to be rubbing your back every two minutes--stick to your goals. If they see you’re willing to put in the effort, people will come help you. I’ve seen people be pre-Madonna like and they don’t make it.

FASHION JOURNALISM FEATURE ARTICLE ASSIGN. FALL 2011

COPY CAT
Buying fake designer merchandise leads to enormous savings versus actually splurging on the real-deal. But are you actually paying the cost in the long run?

LICENSE TO SELL
I’m sure we all ponder this question when either shopping for real or fake designer goods; if it was possible, should selling counterfeit merchandise be legal? It would help our taxes, everything would be documented, there would be legalized factories to undergo the production, and for those less fortunate, they could have the imaginary luxury of owning a “designer” item for less then half the cost. If that was the case, the government could have a strong grip on the knockoff production, making them tweak labels, structures and designs so there not entirely copying the original in the first place. For example the 20th century has been big on “fast fashion” a term used for any retail or production company who mimics the way a certain style is on designer runways, then sells it for less than half the price of the original in their stores. If fashion is all about copying one another and stemming from each others ideas, then why isn’t it legal to make knockoff products?

DECEPTIVE DESIGNS
Designer brands are labeled on everything (literally, everything!). From purses, to sharpie markers to iPods - the temptation of wanting a designer product is etched in your mind; along with the question, is it real or fake? Buying knockoffs these days are so good, not even some of the pros can tell if it’s real or fake. With so many counterfeit products ranging from sneakers to iPods, it isn’t helping the actual designers coming up with their designs as well as our economy. Buying counterfeit merchandise is a bad idea in many ways. According to an About.com article titled “Faking it - Counterfeit fashion” by Cynthia Nellis, it gives reasons as to why you should think twice about buying counterfeit merchandise, here are some examples:
The tax we pay each year? The people selling counterfeit merchandise not only get away with not having to pay taxes but also robbing our economy more than $1 billion dollars each year.
It is said that counterfeiting is linked with gangs and terrorists. Sometimes knockoff handbags will be lined with drugs that they can smuggle into countries and sell.
The knockoff products such as electronics or toys can be unsafe, using the cheapest way to produce the items can cause harm to anyone, falling apart easily and leaving little pieces around for small children to choke on them.
Counterfeit sunglasses shatter easily and may fail to provide UV protection against the sun like it says.
It is also said that selling knockoffs, especially handbags, increases the price of the actual designer handbag due to the company’s lost sales. Counterfeiting isn’t made with high quality goods as you may all know. Many people just want the designer look for less and will stop at nothing to get it.

I FOUGHT THE LAW.. AND THE LAW WON
Both the United States and Canada have created laws to minimize counterfeit selling and production. Under the Trade-marks Act and the Anti-Counterfeiting Consumer Protection Act of 1996 they included laws such as criminal infringement of copying a product, trafficking goods, services and labels, allowing law enforcement to take counterfeit products as well as shutting down where they make there goods, and many more. Depending on how real the knockoff looks to the designers product, a person can get charged with selling knockoffs of up to $1,000,000! (Now how many designer handbags would that get you?)
HANDBAG HIATUS
Although the idea of legalizing knockoffs has its benefits, the term to counterfeit means to illegally copy something. Knockoffs are illegal in the sense that they are trying to sell as the real product. There have been incidents where the people who produce counterfeit merchandise will buy a real designer bag, make a replica of it, and return the fake bag in for another one and the sales associates don’t even notice. So even if you are the type of person to buy real designer goods from the stores, make sure you really inspect the bag your buying, and that goes for every other product you want to purchase as well.



SPOT BEFORE YOU SPEND
As read above, spotting fake products can be very difficult to tell the difference as to what’s real and what’s fake. Keep in mind when shopping for designer merchandise how to spot a fake by using a few of these clues:
Most importantly, note the price - is it increasingly lower than what other retailers sell there merchandise for? For example if its a Chanel handbag selling for $150 - it’s fake. Chanel purses usually retail anywhere from $700 and above.
Where are you buying it from? More than likely if its being sold in a back alley way or out of a trunk of a car, then ladies - its not real, sorry!
Point of origin tag. Noticing where its from is highly important. If it’s “Made in China” then it probably isn’t real.
With it being the 20th century and all, the internet is a huge part of retailing. If your one of those people who loves to shop online rather than waste your time at the mall carelessly walking around, keep in mind that counterfeiters do sell online as well. A few hints to look for when browsing online:
Notice the description they give. If they overkill on words such as “authentic” “genuine” and “real”, then the site you’re on is a fraud.
If you read into the description carefully the knockoffs sometimes will have “this design is inspired by..” showing that it is in fact a knockoff.
And of course as said above, note the price. Price is always important!
Overall if you want a real designer bag, and not a knockoff, your best bet is to go to the company’s store or department store that sells designer goods. If you’re the online shopper, most designers sell directly to the public on their own sites which would be the most surefire way to get the product your looking for. So ladies, let us try and minimize even more our want for designer knockoffs and try to save up for the real deal! It’ll help out our economy and environment by not having to throw away your knockoffs after two short years of usage, and also keep your fashionista status at a high with a real designer bag! (Ou la la!) Everyone will be envious, and that’s what a girl who’s fashion forward wants, right?

Service Pieces

Eye-conic Lashes by Gia Arcos
Lucky Teeth by Catherine
Snap Sparkle Pop! by Junior
Nailed It! by Paige
Create a Chic Style... by Michael (?)

Snap, sparkle, pop!

Snap, sparkle, pop!

Five wardrobe staples that could become statements just by adding a bit of colour.

Foot Flash (Shoes)
A lady should know a thing or two about these wonderful creations already but with a bit of colour a whole new world can be created, one maybe even worthy of some camera time.

Boom Box (Bags)

In the modern day world a bag isn't just a utility item, it could be the piece that makes or breaks an outfit so why not get loud and make everyone else dance to the beat of your drum.

Candy Coated (Coats)

Whether it be the harsh winter weather or the spring or the fall, there is no real need to blend in with the environment. See your investment as you would if you were a kid in the candy store and reach for the brightest treat.

Spray Painted (Dress)
A good fit is a necessity when it comes to choosing a great dress but with a little colour, headlines will be yours and that little black dress will become nothing but a backup plan.

Hot Cakes (Jeans)

Fresh out of the oven and onto the streets, the latest is a jean with a top layer of coloured icing. It could be wide leg, skinny fit or just plain regular jeans, indulge and let your sweet tooth guide you to the many different flavours of denim.

Lucky Teeth

An orthodontist's nightmare.

For years our parents have been frivolously spending thousands of dollars on pricey, yet painfully embarrassing, orthodontic contraptions for those of us unfortunate enough to have been born with a mouthful of unruly choppers. But in the past few years, from covers of Vogue to haute couture runways a new discovery has been made: the allure of the gap-toothed bombshell.

The chic gap between the two front teeth on a model is certainly not a new trend; supermodels like Brigitte Bardot and Lauren Hutton have paved the way for newcomers with spacey smiles to grace the fashion scene, but this rediscovered trend may be the beginning of a gap toothed craze. It seems almost impossible to flip through the pages of any magazine and not find at least one; almost every elite modeling agency has made it their mission to sign one of these beauties and they are muses to countless designers. Editor in chief of W magazine, Stefano Tonchi, describes the lust for the gap as a “love for the imperfect, and authentic [...] values that are more and more important for younger generations,” adding that they show “originality [and] authenticity... in a world that is more and more digitally enhanced”. Whatever the justification for the fad, it certainly has heads turning and people talking. Our word of advice? Flash 'em if you got 'em ladies and gentlemen, because in the topsy-turvy world of fashion this season's must is next seasons' faux pas.

Whether you love them, hate them, or wish they would just get braces like the rest of the world, the girls who chose to skip those awkward metal-face days in order to rebel (orthodontically speaking) by showing off their bridge-worthy pearly whites are on the spotlight, and it's paying off!


THE ORIGINAL GAP SMILES:

Brigitte Bardot
D.O.B: September 28, 1934.
ON THE MAP: Paris, France.
NICKNAME: BB.
BIG BREAK: Cover of Elle Magazine [March, 1950].
BEST KNOWN FOR: Film “And God Created Woman” [1958].
FAV. QUOTE: “I am really a cat transformed into a woman… I purr. I scratch. And sometimes, I bite.”


Lauren Hutton
D.O.B: November 17, 1943.
ON THE MAP: South Carolina, U.S.
NICKNAME: Lauren [ full name: Mary Laurence].
BIG BREAK: Playboy Magazine [1963].
BEST KNOWN FOR: Face of Revlon Cosmetics.
FAV. QUOTE: “If the accident of genes has put you in a place where you can be a role model, then be somebody!”



THE NEW GENERATION OF GAPS:


Lara Stone
D.O.B: December 20, 1983.
ON THE MAP: Geldrop, The Netherlands.
NICKNAME: Fashion's It Girl.
BIG BREAK: Vogue Paris Spread [March, 2007].
BEST KNOWN FOR: First modern gap-toothed super model.
FAV. QUOTE: “I figure out what they hate most, then I do lots and lots of that.”


Linsey Wixson
D.O.B: April 11, 1994.
ON THE MAP: Kansas, U.S.
NICKNAME: The pout.
BIG BREAK: Vogue Italia Spread [June, 2009].
BEST KNOWN FOR: “Bee-stung lips” look.
FAV. QUOTE: “Real success is not, like, materialistic. It's being where you want to be when you want to be…”


Georgia Jagger:
D.O.B: January 12, 1992.
ON THE MAP: U.S.
NICKNAME: Jagger.
BIG BREAK: British Vogue cover [November, 2009].
BEST KNOWN FOR: Her "Jagger Swagger".
FAV. QUOTE: “I would always style my mother and tell her, if someone asks you who styled you, say Georgia!”


Jessica Hart:
D.O.B: March 26, 1886.
ON THE MAP: Sydney, Australia.
NICKNAME: Jess.
BIG BREAK: Vogue Australia cover [March, 2008].
BEST KNOWN FOR: Her long legs and athletic physique...and you guessed it. Her teeth.
FAV. MISSION WORK?: Her clothing line, Neon Hart, from which she donates a percentage to charity!

Trends-Form

How to Reinvent your style, Give your style a fashionista make over for the New year!


How often do you stare into your closet full of overflowing clothes and realize that you still have nothing to wear? From past experience it happens a bit too often, especially during the times when seasons are changing. Celebrities are always trying to switch up and revamp their fashion styles and now it's your turn! Here are some tips to help you jump onto a fresh start during the chilly months and the new year!

Fur is definitely the big "in" this year. It has been on all the runway shows from designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors, and Christian Dior just to name a few. If you don't have this in your closet already this timeless piece adds great depth to your wardrobe! Fur is great when it comes to adding a 'texture overload' to your style. Being able to stay warm in the cold months but still looking like your fabulous self isn't a hard thing to do. By adding a fur scarf or a fur hat to your outfit, gives you an ultra luxurious look while giving you that layered feel. You could also go for a purse with fur detailing or even a fur vest to pick up your outfit a bit. Just try not to over load on the fur, picking one or two pieces will help put together an outfit, but wearing too much fur? Might make you look like a walking animal. Against wearing the real thing? Not to worry, you can find a lot of faux fur pieces these days in retail stores and at a cheaper price. It's a win-win situation!

Another great thing to look for while you're shopping for new pieces is to look for a vintage-inspired floral print. You may think floral prints are only for the summer months, but a lot of designers are now trying to tie in the floral print with fall/winter pieces to give a soft, feminine silhouette. By keeping a soft elegance feel to it, you can find a floral print shirt or a silk dress and pair that with nylons and cute little ankle boots. Throw over a wool trench coat and your set to hit the city streets! One thing to keep in mind when buying floral prints for the fall/winter seasons is to keep the colour either neutral or soft and stay away from bright and vibrant colours.

Last but not least the last trend would be the more structured pieces that have an androgyny feel to it. Designers such as Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Stella McCartney are coming out with pieces that have more of a tailored built. More women are striving to get this look because it empowers a strong woman. Look for structured and tailor pieces such as shirts, blazers, boots and hats. These items would give you more of a polished look for days at the office or an important meeting, either way you'll look trendy and sophisticated!

A Striking Smash

Proving art is all about creativity get cracking and turn a boring old mirror into stylish wall art.

What I did...The idea came from an episode of Sex and the City where there was a mirror on the wall that looked like it had been broken. I was able to duplicate the mirror by using basic materials such as plywood, paint, glue to turn an old mirror into an edgy piece of art.

Home Depot to Good Will

First decide what size you want your art piece to be. I went with 2 x 4 because my mirror was 3 x 3. It depends on the amount of space you have on your wall and the size of mirror you can find! Next, gather the materials you need:

· ¼ inch thick plywood

· Paint

· Mirror

· Adhesive

Look around the house or ask friends if they have any of the materials lying around. If that proves to be disappointing you can get plywood, glue and paint from home improvement stores. Thrift stores are great places to find inexpensive mirrors.

Smoothing With Sandpaper

Plywood is rough, so you will need to sand down all your edges and each side of the wood. It doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth, but you don’t want splinters coming off your wood! Then roll on your paint making sure to cover the edges. I used black for the background colour because it is what was used in the inspiration; also I liked the statement the mirror made against the black. If you want another colour to match your decor, I would go for either dark vampy colours or super bright colours. That way your mirror pieces can really pop!

All That Shatters

Forget the seven bad years of luck, smashing a mirror is a superb way to let out some anger and to score your mirror pieces. Smash your mirror on a concrete floor, I suggest using the garage floor. Safety first, wear protective goggles and gloves while doing this. Use a mallet and start in a corner trying to break off large chunks. Depending on the thickness of your glass, you may have to hit it more than once really hard. After your mirror is smashed, separate the small and large pieces.

The Puzzles People Play

Keeping the gloves on, arrange your mirror pieces over your board. Start with the large ones placing them together like a puzzle creating a college. You want them to be close together but not touching; don’t worry about making sure every piece is evenly spaced, it is supposed to be broken. Once the big pieces are placed, fill in the gaps with the smaller pieces until the entire board is covered. Keep all the pieces inside the edges of the board; you do not want to have sharp edges poking out. When all the pieces are arranged to your liking, start gluing them down.

Clean a Little Talk a Little

After you have waited the allotted time for the glue to dry, you can polish your mirror pieces and clean up the glue. Still wearing the gloves use any glass cleaner for the mirror pieces. If you used glue that dried opaque and got some on the board, just dip a small paintbrush into your paint and colour over the glue. For mounting your finished art piece you will need steel mirror support hangers or clips. When getting the clips take into consideration the length, width and weight of your art for how many clips you will need. I would suggest 2 or 3 on the top and bottom and 1 on each side.

Now you can enjoy your unique and trendy piece of art you’ve created!

Mix and Match

New ways to colour your life and satisfy your wardrobe with all the latest wants, needs and desires.

Be Jeweled – It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 Gold!

Gold has reign the top choice for many avid jewelry connoisseurs, but beware folks, rose gold has entered the competition. Now more accessory lovers can happily adorn their bodies in favourite precious metal. For the classic type, sporting a monochromatic scheme is safe and sultry. A delicate necklace tied in with small studded earrings and a plain band on one finger, all in the same gold. While fashionistas boldly mix yellow and white gold, layering different lengths/sizes of textured necklaces, ornate dangly or hefty earrings, and let’s not forget a statement ring or two! Such combos are a never–fail and always on point trend. Now enters the newly sophisticated and unexpected rose gold; for those who dare to be different, this blush-coloured metal rises on the popularity list. Because of its unique tone, it is best to use rose gold as an accent piece or let it stand on its own .Whether deciding to choose to mix all lustrous colours, harmonize two or simply dress one at a time, makes us all winners.

Denim to Dye For

Jeans are an easy way to experiment with colour blocking, a huge trend for spring. Match a bold pair with a solid top in a complementary hue: yellow with purple or peach with bright blue. You can also go the classic route and partner any of these jellybean inspired jeans with a crisp white dress shirt.

Floral and Leopard and Stripes Oh My!

Remember the days when choosing one pattern packed much of a statement? Bold just got bolder with these standout combinations, a sure way to never get lost in the crowd. Pretty pastels or intense bright florals, sleek palettes of black, red, blue and white stripes and loud leopard prints can easily translate to savvy chic. The easiest way to showcase the looks are by choosing two patterns at once and pairing with a neutral (shoes, bags or trousers). But for those who live by “two is swell, three is better”- indulge yourself in all riveting contrasts. Done correctly and with the right proportions, anyone who wants attention should take note; try a black/white nautical striped tee tucked in a floral formfitting pencil skirt with leopard peep-toe stacked wedges. For a subtle approach, a black lacy floral top with boyfriend jeans, a satin multi coloured ballet flat and a leopard clutch will do the trick. Get excited and combine things your own way!

You Got Nailed

Those subtle nudes are nice and all, but these days dark to bright choices and the wild-pattern craze are all the rage. Short nails adorned in glossy jet black polish are far from gothic. Deemed cool and glamorous, black has become and continues to be the go-to colour for all ages and wearers. More importantly, it is often chosen for formal occasions to either offset the attire or provide impact for subdued looks. Classic reds are by far the most flattering ranging from candy apple, scarlet, burgundy to blackberry. Red has become the leading staple for every nail addict out there and remains the most coveted. Nowadays, more and more are gravitating towards the neon fuschias, hi-liter yellows, seafoam greens and cobalt blues. And finally lace, zebra, leopard and high voltage metallics are definite eye catchers. Paint each nail a different colour or try a bright striped French manicure…polka dots anyone? For endless possibilities and those on a budget, these flattering and impressive choices are affordable, providing an instant update to any wardrobe.

DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY

How to survive the upcoming holidays without having to check into your local psychiatric ward. (And if you're lucky you might make it into the New Year!)

In & Out

Step one: breathe in. Now breathe out. Repeat. You already feel better don't you? Yes, this is a stressful time of the year, what with all of the parties, dinners, shopping trips and organizing to be done. But by taking a few minutes out of your day to take a few deep breaths and calm down, you can really change your outlook.

Excess Baggage

We know you like to have a good time. And we know you've got a daily planner jam-packed with parties...but that doesn't mean you have to be at all of them! Try not to overload yourself with too many events and get-togethers, you social butterfly you. Narrow down the invitation list to the truly important. Packing your schedule may provide a plethora of fun, but it also packs on the stress levels. Don't wear yourself too thin by being everywhere and doing everything; you'll thank yourself later. (Plus you'll avoid that tired, worn-down look that comes along with stress...who wants that in their pictures?)

Tic-Toc

Time flies! So make the most of it by taking the time to get yourself together. Brush the dust off of that organizer you swore you would use (but have yet to open), or make the most of the daily planner in that smart phone of yours and get organized! One of the best ways to handle stress is to be prepared, and by knowing exactly what's going on and when, you can better brace yourself for it. Schedule your time- it can help you avoid stressing situations (two events on the same night!) and keeps you aware of everything that needs to be accomplished, and when.

Burn, Baby, Burn

You want to avoid that. Unless of course it's because you look smokin' in that party get-up of yours (which, in fact, is perfectly acceptable). Burnout, however, is not. It is quite common for people to over-stress themselves this time of the year, be it by taking on too much, trying to put on the 'perfect' occasion, or simply by never taking the time to slow down. So do just that and take a 'me' break. Read a book. Have a nap. Go for a run. Do whatever it is you need to do to take your mind off of things for a while. Even a few minutes each day of just sitting and taking a breather can help you avoid succumbing to that dreadful b-word.

You Only Live Once...

..So embrace it! Yes, there is a lot going on, but you need to try and remain positive when faced with your holiday schedule. If you treat each occasion as something else on your list of things to do, you'll never be able to fully enjoy them. Learn to live in the moment a little, and appreciate each special event while it's happening. You'll be able to look back on your holidays with pleasant memories, instead of those filled with negative thoughts and stress-induced hair pulling.

Animalistic Instincts

Wild Child:

No need to rush to the salon to get the hottest nails this season, now you can do them yourself in the comfort of your own home! Sally Hansen’s Salon Effects nail strips in ‘Wild Child’ are zebra print and absolutely to-die-for. The package comes with a variety of strips in different shapes and sizes. To apply, start by removing the white piece of plastic from the back of the strip, to expose the adhesive. You then position the strip on your nail, lining it up with your cuticle, and then press down starting in the center and working towards the sides to make it stick. Once that is done you can remove the top layer of plastic from the strip and simply bend the strip at the tip of the nail so that any excess will rip off. The strips are made so that they are easy to tear and can be shaped perfectly to fit your nail. Repeat these steps for the rest of your nails and then, using the nail file provided, file down any leftovers that you don’t want, and ta-da, you’re all finished! No topcoat needed! The nail strips can last up to 10 days.

Venomous Veneta’s:

Snakeskin boots have been all the rage this season, and Bottega Veneta's cowboy-style ones are no exception. These round-toe, platform boots come in black, making them easy to pair with any outfit. For a casual outfit you could pair these boots with dark wash skinny jeans, and a button up blouse in a bold colour, such as red. For a night out you could wear these boots with a sharp dress that cuts just above or below the knee.

Quick Fix:

There is no better way to turn up the heat than with a cheetah print scarf. They can be worn with almost any outfit to add a little something extra. If paired with a blazer and jeans, a cheetah print scarf could be worn all day long, whether you’re inside or out. Just wrap it around your neck once or twice and you will stay warm and stylish all day. Louis Vuitton came out with a cheetah print scarf that really caught my eye. One of my favourite ways to make use of this beautiful accessory is by wearing it with a pair of high-waisted black pants, a neutral or light coloured tank, a jean or leather jacket, and some killer pumps. Heck, you could even add some cheetah print heels to the outfit to bring everything together.

Latch Onto This:

What better way to accessorize your outfit than with an alligator clutch? Alligator products do come at a steep price, but in the end they are worth it. Burberry has an alligator clutch that is my personal favourite. Not only is it visually appealing, but also it has four separate compartments in it, perfect for all of your personal belongings. An alligator skin clutch can be used with pretty much any outfit. Since it is so chic and professional, my advice would be to pair it with a blazer and high-waisted skirt. Pick a blazer in a nice colour such as forest green or plum. Nothing too bright and bold as you don’t want the clutch to go unnoticed. As for shoes a pair of neutral or black heels will do just fine.

Fashionable Feline:

No wardrobe is complete without an assortment of pretty belts. Since animal prints are all of the rage right now you can buy a belt in almost any animal print you can imagine. In order to keep things interesting, it’s good to own a leopard print one, as it stands out. A great thing about belts is that they can be worn in a couple of different ways, whether it’s around your waist, hips, or somewhere in between. The sky is the limit! One of the best ways to wear a leopard print belt is with a pair of low-rise jeans in your choice of wash, a sheer, button-up, white blouse, and knee-high dark brown boots. Add some gold jewelry and your outfit is complete. Michael Kors has an amazing leopard print belt.

Animalistic Instincts

Wild Child:

No need to rush to the salon to get the hottest nails this season, now you can do them yourself in the comfort of your own home! Sally Hansen’s Salon Effects nail strips in ‘Wild Child’ are zebra print and absolutely to-die-for. The package comes with a variety of strips in different shapes and sizes. To apply, start by removing the white piece of plastic from the back of the strip, to expose the adhesive. You then position the strip on your nail, lining it up with your cuticle, and then press down starting in the center and working towards the sides to make it stick. Once that is done you can remove the top layer of plastic from the strip and simply bend the strip at the tip of the nail so that any excess will rip off. The strips are made so that they are easy to tear and can be shaped perfectly to fit your nail. Repeat these steps for the rest of your nails and then, using the nail file provided, file down any leftovers that you don’t want, and ta-da, you’re all finished! No topcoat needed! The nail strips can last up to 10 days.

Venomous Veneta’s:

Snakeskin boots have been all the rage this season, and these cowboy-style ones by Bottega Veneta are no exception. These round-toe, platform boots come in black, making them easy to pair with any outfit. For a casual outfit you could pair these boots with dark wash skinny jeans, and a button up blouse in a bold colour, such as red. For a night out you could wear these boots with a sharp dress that cuts just above or below the knee.

Quick Fix:

There is no better way to turn up the heat than with a cheetah print scarf. They can be worn with almost any outfit to add a little something extra. If paired with a blazer and jeans, a cheetah print scarf could be worn all day long, whether you’re inside or out. Just wrap it around your neck once or twice and you will stay warm and stylish all day. This particular Louis Vuitton scarf really caught my eye. One of my favourite ways to make use of this beautiful accessory is by wearing it with a pair of high-waisted black pants, a neutral or light coloured tank, a jean or leather jacket, and some killer pumps. Heck, you could even add some cheetah print heels to the outfit to bring everything together.

Latch Onto This:

What better way to accessorize your outfit than with an alligator clutch? Alligator products do come at a steep price, but in the end they are worth it. This Burberry clutch is my personal favourite. Not only is it visually appealing, but also it has four separate compartments in it, perfect for all of your personal belongings. This clutch can be used with pretty much any outfit thanks to its colour. Since it is so chic and professional, my advice would be to pair it with a blazer and high-waisted skirt. Pick a blazer in a nice colour such as forest green or plum. Nothing too bright and bold as you don’t want the clutch to go unnoticed. As for shoes a pair of neutral or black heels will do just fine.

Fashionable Feline:

No wardrobe is complete without an assortment of pretty belts. Since animal prints are all of the rage right now you can buy a belt in almost any animal print you can imagine. In order to keep things interesting, it’s good to own a leopard print one, as it stands out. A great thing about belts is that they can be worn in a couple of different ways, whether it’s around your waist, hips, or somewhere in between. The sky is the limit! One of the best ways to wear a leopard print belt is with a pair of low-rise jeans in your choice of wash, a sheer, button-up, white blouse, and knee-high dark brown boots. Add some gold jewelry and your outfit is complete. This Michael Kors belt is perfect as it has a gold tone buckle that will match the jewelry.