Fashion - More

Anna Sui GG outfits Leaked!

2009-06-27T17:41:00.016-04:00

My last post was talking about how designer Anna Sui has teamed up with target to create a line that was inspired by Gossip Girl. A few looks from a look book have been leaked so here they are!

Serena looks 1 and 2

Serena looks 3 and 4

Serena look 5

Vanessa looks 1 and 2

Vanessa looks 3 and 4

Jenny looks 1 and 2

Jenny looks 3 and 4

Jenny look 5

Blair looks 1 and 2

Blair looks 3 and 4

Blair look 5

Anna Sui for Target

2009-06-10T13:56:00.001-04:00

Target has officially teamed up with a well known designer: Anna Sui. The line will debut September 13 in Target stores. Interestingly enough, the line will be inspired by the cast of the CW show Gossip Girl.

“When I was in Asia last year, all the young girls kept asking me about the different locations in New York City where the characters from ‘Gossip Girl’ live,” Sui told WWD. “I liked the idea of creating a collection reflective of each characters’ style, sensibility and unique approach to fashion. By combining the elements of art, city, spirit, punk and glamour, we created a collection that exudes New York City fashion.”

I'll keep you posted!

Stripping Down the Controversy of the Fur Industry

2009-05-05T11:42:00.014-04:00

*NOTE: There are pictures in this article of caged animals but none are gruesome.*

Centuries ago it was very common to wear fur, especially in cold climates because of its excellent insulation properties. In the 19th century European men ventured into the North American wilderness in hunt of the fur of animals such as beaver, wolf, marten, mink, fox and lynx. The men went up the Saint Lawrence, over the Great Lakes, through the Canadian Plains and north to the Yukon in search of these animals. The first fur farms in North America appeared in the 1860s. A fur farm is the practice of breeding or raising certain types of animals for their fur. Some economic historians and anthropologists say that fur farms and the fur trade played an important economic role for many countries. Fur was in great demand especially back in Europe and fortunes were made in the fur trade industry.

Back then it was acceptable to kill animals and use their fur because they didn’t have a lot of fibres and fabrics we have now. They had to use what was available to them. However, now there are more fibres (natural and synthetic) that are available for us to use so we can keep warm. The demand of fur has gone down because of these newer fibres. Starting in the later half of the 20th century, producers and wearers of fur have been criticized because of the perceived cruelty involved in animal farming and trapping.

So the debate is: Is it humane in this day and age to kill innocent animals to wear fur? Yes, some find it fashionable but is there a price to be paid, that has nothing to do with money, for this fashion statement? Let’s look at where these fur clothing items come from and what goes on in the fur industry.

The manufacturing of fur clothing involves obtaining animal pelts where the hair is left on. Fur processing involves an array of chemicals from soaking and degreasing agents, to enzymes, oils and greases, bleaches, dyes, reinforcing agents, toners, tanning and finishing chemicals. To kill the animals without damaging their fur, trappers usually strangle, beat, or stomp them to death. Animals on fur farms may be gassed, electrocuted, poisoned, or have their necks snapped. According to the International Fur Trade Federation in “Fur Farming” 2006, eighty-five percent of the fur industry’s skins come from animals living captive in fur factory farms. The animals—who are housed in very small cages— are known to develop physical and psychological problems. Zoologists at Oxford University who studied captive minks found that, despite generations of being bred for fur, minks have not been domesticated and suffer greatly in captivity, especially if they are not given the opportunity to swim. Life in a cage leads minks to self-mutilate — biting at their skin, tails, and feet — and frantically pace and circle endlessly. Foxes and other animals suffer equally and have been found to cannibalize each other as a reaction to their crowded confinement. According to the International Fur Trade Federation, seventy-three percent of fur farms are in Europe, 12 percent are in North America, and the rest are dispersed throughout the world, in countries such as Argentina, China, and Russia.

The animals most commonly killed for fur trim are foxes. 90% percent of the foxes raised on fur farms are killed for the fur-trim market. Arctic or blue foxes are the primary type used, followed by the silver or red foxes. As of 2000, the total number of foxes killed on fur farms worldwide was 4.3 million.

In the countries like the United States and China there are no federal laws governing the care, treatment, or killing of animals on fur farms. There are countries that have banned fur farming or made laws on how to run a fur farm. Fur farming was banned in England and Wales by the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Act 2000 and in Scotland by the Fur Farming (Prohibition) (Scotland) Act 2002. Fur farming is banned in Austria and in Croatia starting January 1, 2007, with a 10 year phase out period.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) are known for going after celebrities who wear fur.

PETA has recently dubbed the Olsen twins Hairy-Kate and Trashley Trollsen.

Ultimately it is your decision to wear fur or not. If you have no problem with it and want to wear clothing that has fur there is nothing stopping you. If you want to find out more feel free to search and find out more about the fur trade or fur industry. PETA’s website is http://www.peta.org/

This article stated facts in an unbiased way.

Payless Helps Plant Trees

2009-04-22T12:24:00.002-04:00

The Nature Conservancy’s goal is to plant 1 billion trees in The Atlantic Forest of Brazil. The forest is in trouble; only 7 percent of the forest is left from its original size. It is considered one of the world’s most endangered tropical forest. Coastal development, urban expansion, agriculture, exotic plantations, ranching and illegal logging have all contributed to the depletion.

This forest helps regulate the atmosphere and stabilize global climate. Forests are needed to store carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air for us to breathe. The Atlantic Forest alone provides clean water and hydro energy to 120 million people in Brazil. It is also home to 23 species primates, 1000 species of birds and over 20 000 species of plants; many are found nowhere else on Earth.

The Nature Conservancy is working with local partners and government officials to restore 2.5 million acres of land and planting 1 billion trees over the next 7 years. This reforestation effort will not only help fight global warming but it will also remove 10 million tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere each year. At this moment according to their website, so far they have planted 1,565,279 trees.

Payless Shoe Source has teamed up to help! Payless ShoeSource® will contribute $1 to The Nature Conservancy's Plant a Billion Trees Campaign for each resuable bag purchased from 4/13/09 to 12/31/09. Payless ShoeSource® will make a minimum total contribution for 2009 of $100,000 from the sales in 2009.

To learn more about the Plant a Billion Trees Campaign, visit The Nature Conservancy's Plant a Billion

Celebrities Wearing the same Outfits

2009-04-17T12:33:00.003-04:00

You decide who you think looks best.

Taylor Swift is L.E.I Gorgeous

2009-04-01T11:58:00.005-04:00

Taylor Swift has teamed up with L.E.I. (Life Energy Intelligence) and produced a line of sundresses for Wal-Mart. “I love dresses,” Taylor told PEOPLE. “And I have always had this dream to make an affordable sundress line.” She first teamed up with L.E.I. last year to star in their denim campaign, and now the Wal-Mart brand has released her dresses on February 1st.

The singer, who also stars in the ads, looked to her own life for inspiration when it came to design. “I started brainstorming what I would wear this summer, on tour or hanging out at festivals when it’s hot outside,” Taylor says. The result: a collection of lightweight jersey dresses in bold colors and girly prints for just $14. “I was totally adamant that I wanted [the dresses] to be affordable. With my headlining tour, we are offering $20 tickets everywhere we go and I wanted to approach the sundress line in the same way,” says Taylor. “To have cute dresses under $20 is something I am really proud of.”

Each dress style comes in a variety of plain colours as well as coloured prints. What I am showing are just a few. I actually really like the dresses. The “Cindy” is gorgeous. Unfortunately I’m pretty sure Canada doesn’t sell L.E.I.

The “Nicole” is a print cotton-blend jersey. It has an eyelet bust and eyelet hem; smocked in the back, scoop neck and empire waist. The spaghetti straps are adjustable.

The “Miley” is a cotton jersey dress with adjustable spaghetti straps, empire waist and flounced hem. The scoop neck has an eyelet-trim inset to make it look like there is layering.

The “Cindy” dress has a square neckline and cap sleeves with elasticized cuffs. The back is cut out and has sash ties at the neck.

Pictures courtesy of http://taylorswiftweb.net/ and Walmart.com

Valentino

2009-03-18T12:36:00.010-04:00

Valentino Garavani, best known as Valentino (born 11 May 1932) is the Italian fashion designer who founded the Valentino brand and company. His fashion house is among the world's most famous haute couture and ready-to-wear fashion empires.

Valentino studied fashion design and French at the Accademia dell Arte in Milan - he then went to the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. While still a student, he was awarded a prize for fashion design by the International Wool Secretariat (later won by both Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld).

Valentino became known for his red dresses, in the bright shade that became known in the fashion industry as "Valentino red".

During his 45 years of designing he dressed many celebrities including Jackie Kennedy and even designed her wedding gown when she wed Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis.

On September 4, 2007 Valentino announced that he would retire fully from the world stage after his last Haute-Couture show in Paris. He delivered his last women's Ready-to-wear show in Paris on October 4. His last haute couture show was presented in Paris at the Musée Rodin on January 23, 2008. At his final show he received a standing ovation from the entire audience, which included hundreds of notable names from all areas of show business. Many models returned to show for Valentino's last haute couture show, including Eva Herzigova, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, Karolina Kurkova and Karen Mulder.
Valentino was presented with the Medal of the City of Paris the following day Thursday January 24, 2008 for his services to fashion in the city where he was educated.
The new designer at Valentino's brand is Alessandra Facchinetti, the former designer at the House of Gucci.

Valentino movie - "Valentino: The Last Emperor"
Valentino: The Last Emperor, a feature-length documentary on the designer premiered at the 2008 Venice International Film Festival. Produced and directed by Matt Tyrnauer, Special Correspondent for Vanity Fair magazine, the film follows Valentino and his inner circle throughout various events, including last year's anniversary show celebrating his 45 years of career. In production from June 2005 to July 2007, the filmmakers shot over 250 hours of footage with exclusive, unprecedented access to Valentino and his entourage. "We were let in to the inner circle, but we had to stick it out for a long time, practically move in, to capture the truly great moments", says Tyrnauer. "Valentino is surrounded by a tight-knit family of friends and employees, but, eventually, their guard came down and they forgot there was a camera crew in the room."
The film had its North American premiere at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival.

As of late, Valentino has been making his rounds among the media including Oprah and The View to promote the documentary. It is open in select theatres this week.

Spring Preview

2009-03-11T15:08:00.004-04:00

With the arrival of March, there is also an arrival of lots of new stock in shops. So what are the spring must haves? Let’s begin!

Colours That are Making a Splash

Oranges

Pinks

Corals

Black and white combinations

Nudes and Blushes

Stone Grey

Greens – hunter green, Kelly green

purples

silvers and other metallics

yellows

Pattern Making

Animal prints from leopard to python – especially in the Springs hottest colours

Florals

Ombre (going from the light hue of the colour to the dark hue gradually)

Shaping Up

voluminous skirts – almost shaped as a bell

boyfriend jacket – slouchy and a bit oversized

bondage dress – super tight and makes you looked wrapped in a bandage

Notable Mentions

bows

distressed denim

big earrings

skinny belts

This skirt is voluminous and has a bow on the back.
Bell Skirt with bow: yellow + more colours, DELiA*s $28.50- $30.50 USD

Very colourful skinny jeans and sweaters.
Skinny Jeans: 11 colour options, DELiA*s $49.50 USD; Sweater: many colours, DELiA*s $44.50 USD; Shoes: many colour options, DELiA*s $34.50 USD

This is what ombre is. going from one shade of the colour to another.
Sweater: ombre cherry + more colours, DELiA*s $44.50 USD

Oscars 2009

2009-02-25T11:26:00.007-05:00

I know I'm a couple days late... (don't forget you can make the pictures bigger by clicking on them)

Pale colours were all over the red carpet.

Jennifer Aniston in Valentino

Marisa Tomei in Versace

Miley Cyrus in Zuhair Murhad

Penelope Cruz in ?

Sarah Jessica Parker in a "barely mint" Dior Haute Couture

Anne Hathaway in Prive

Thanks to JustJared.

Grammy 2009 Faves

2009-02-09T15:26:00.007-05:00

With so many stars looking great for last night's Grammy's, it was hard to choose my favourite. My top two would be Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus. Both wore black floor length gowns.

Miley wore a black Herve Leger by Max Azira dress and her accessories were a Max Azria Atelier bag, BCBG heels, and jewels from Mimi So and Atelier Swarovski.

Taylor Swift wore a Ultra Fine Italian Tissue Weight Jersey Dress from Kaufman Franco with wrap around patent leather strapping. She accessoried with Rene Caovilla shoes and Lorraine Schwartz jewels.

Other faves include Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry and Kim Kardashian

Pictures credited to http://taylorswiftweb.net/ and http://justjaredjr.buzznet.com/ and

fashionism.ca

Confessions of a Shopaholic

2009-02-03T11:40:00.009-05:00

This film is an adaptation of the novels The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic (Confessions of a Shopaholic in US and Canada) and Shopaholic Abroad (Shopaholic takes Manhattan in US and Canada) by British author Sophie Kinsella, using the novel's American title Confessions of a Shopaholic. The movie will definitely be different than the book series so if you love the novels don't go to the movie expecting it to be amazing like the books. The movie is based in New York instead of London with pretty much all of an American cast. I have also heard that the movie is the first and second book combined.

This is what it is being describes as:

A college grad named Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher) moves to Manhattan to nurture her shopping addiction and get involved in the New York magazine world. Though she is up to her neck in debt, Rebecca becomes a financial advice columnist and even manages to fall for a wealthy entrepreneur.

With the geographical difference I hope the movie doesn't ruin the essence of the novels series. It just seems it would be too much of a difference. I definetly didn't see Isla Fisher as Rebecca, but I like that they casted Krysten Ritter as Suze. Make your own decisions and see the movie if you want to.

Japan's Hime Gyaru Fashion

2009-01-28T13:01:00.004-05:00

Japanese teens always have some out there kinds of styles. There are many different styles that each teen chooses to follow. One of the latest ones getting major buzz is the Hime Gyaru. From what I gather Hime means princess and Gyaru means gal.

What’s Hime Gyaru look like?

Complexion: slightly tanned to fair
Clothing Colours: mostly pinks and whites, sometimes red and black and any pastel colours, flower designs, etc. Almost anything frilly or lacy.
Hair: long-roll curly hair, sometimes bleached blonde or shades of burgundy, sometimes bee-hive hairstyle
Nails: fingernails caked in glitter and imitation precious stones.
Jewellery: Lots of bows (ribbons) and crystals or fake diamonds. Lots of jewellery, faux fur and lace. Brooches and bracelets designed like kitties, clowns and ice-cream cones.
Mobile phones: jewel stickers to make cellphones look like gaudy national treasures.
Shoes: Cinderalla high-heels, see-through stilletoes, shoes with lots of glitter or 3-dimensional flowers. Another playful version of the Hime Gyaru wear knee-high stockings and flat ballet-inspired shoes.
Other accessories: Lacy gloves, lacy or cutesy or over-sized ribbon head “gear”, lacy gloves and lacy umbrellas, lace cuffs (for wrists).

Bondage Dress

2009-01-16T15:06:00.003-05:00

Trend Watch!

Lately in the past few months there have been many celebrities wearing the bondage dress. The dress is super tight and looks like you have been wrapped in a bandage. Unfortunetly it's not the greatest dress for all body types.

Golden Globes 2009

2009-01-12T14:56:00.005-05:00

Last night was the Golden Globes. I noticed a lot of pale colours on celebrities and darker blues. There were also many that has ruffles and romantic, flowing gowns. Here are a few pictures thanks to JustJared.com

Vanessa Hudgens in Alberta Ferretti

Miley Cyrus in Marchesa

Even Rachel Wood in Elie Saab

Blake Lively in Nina Ricci

Beyonce in Elie Saab

Angelina Jolie Pitt in Atelier Versace

America Ferrera in Oscar de la Renta

Saving Money Tips

2009-01-07T13:40:00.001-05:00

Whether you gave a lot or received a lot of money throughout the holiday season, you may want to start saving money. With the economy and stock markets taking a hit all over the world, money may be getting tight for some of us. It doesn’t matter your budget situation or the reason why, you can still look great and keep your style without spending a load of cash.

Tip 1: Used Clothing Stores

Honestly, there is nothing wrong with many second hand clothing stores. Look for quality pieces that are in good condition and that fit properly. I personally have this one used clothing store where I buy most of my jeans. Sometimes when I go, they don’t have anything that fits; sometimes that is the case. It’s all about luck. I recommend you take a look at used clothing stores near you; they may surprise you. The store I go to even sometimes has brands like American Eagle and Roxy. There has been a few times where I find jeans that would be worth five times more at a regular store.

Often used clothing stores will take your old clothes, if in good condition and even give you a small amount of money or store credit for them.

Tip 2: Shop Smart

Do I really need this? Do I have anything in my wardrobe to wear it with? Ask yourself questions. Sometimes I see something and think ‘oh my god I love this’ but the truth is I have enough jewellery like it or that I would probably never wear it because they are heels and I feel weird in heels. Thinking about it thoroughly sometimes can change your mind. If you need and want it bad enough, then get it.

Tip 3: Read the Flyers
Know what is on sale. If a store is having a sale on something then go! What are you waiting for?! See tip 2.

Tip 4: Opt for local or National when online shopping

Online shopping can be great but depending on where you buy from can influence the cost. If I was to buy something online from a U.S site I would have to pay around an extra $20 USD just for shipping it to Canada – not to mention dollar conversion costs. I would rather opt for ordering from Canadian sites where I can buy from and that offer much less shipping costs and that sell great things too. Know the policies of that online store and remember about shipping fees and dollar conversion costs.

Hope these tips helped!

Dressing for the Right Holiday Event

2008-12-23T14:23:00.000-05:00

Sometimes certain holiday parties call for a certain type of dress code. Here is what you need to know.

Black Tie / Formal

A Black Tie invitation calls for formal attire. Men wear tuxedos, women wear cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates.

Semi-Formal
Semi-Formal or After Five means that tuxes are not required, nor are long dresses. An evening event (after 6 PM) would still dictate dark suits for him, and a cocktail dress for her. Daytime semi-formal events mean a suit for him and an appropriate short dress or dressy suit for her.
Business Formal is the same as Semi-Formal for him, but for women it suggests that women opt for more tailored dressy suits and dresses (nothing too slinky or sexy).

Cocktail Attire
Cocktail Attire means short, elegant dresses for her and dark suits for him.

Informal
Informal is often interpreted as the same as Casual but it actually calls for the same dress as Semi-Formal -- dark suits for him, short dresses for her.

Festive Attire
Festive Attire is usually seen around the holidays, with the mood of the party being Informal or Semi-Formal. For her, it means to choose looks with a bit of sparkle or (i.e. a beaded sweater with black pants, a red silk blouse with a black skirt).

Casual
Dressy Casual calls for dressed-up versions of casual looks. Jeans, shorts, T-shirts and other casual looks are not appropriate for Dressy Casual.
Casual generally means anything goes.

Eco Friendly Fabrics

2008-12-08T12:19:00.001-05:00

We all hear about the benefits of organic, recyclable and eco friendly materials, but how much do we really know about eco friendly fabrics? Interested in learning more about them? Read below on organic cotton, bamboo fabric and fabric made with hemp.

Cotton Vs. Organic Cotton
Cotton is one of the most popular fabrics in the world. It has traditionally been grown with mass use of pesticides, chemicals, and water. The chemicals used in conventional cotton account for up to ½ of the worldwide pesticide use. Organic cotton is cotton that is grown without chemical pesticides. Fertilizers that are used include compost, manure, naturally derived mineral and plant fertilizers. Insect controls involve the use of beneficial insects and natural pesticides certified for organic crops. Organic cotton is also processed without oils, chemicals, and pesticides. Organic cotton feels softer, smells cleaner, and is less likely to trigger allergies. The sustainable farming practices used to grow organic cotton do not pollute groundwater, surface water, soil, or air.

Bamboo
Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of the bamboo grass. Bamboo grows quickly; it is biodegradable and is naturally regenerative. Bamboo is a fast growing plant, with shoots averaging 24 to 36 inches or more in a 24 hour period. Bamboo fabric is naturally anti-microbial, hypoallergenic and thermal regulating. It is also resistant to mold. After multiple washings, over 70% of the bacteria cultured on bamboo textiles are destroyed by the fiber. Bamboo breathes and wicks moisture away due to its porous nature. The fabric made from bamboo is extremely soft and comfy (I have bought bamboo jersey material and made some t-shirts to wear so I know this for sure).

Hemp
Hemp, a cellulose fiber is one of the longest and strongest fibers and therefore it does not require any pesticide, insecticidal or herbicidal use. Hemp does not exhaust the soil and enables sustainability by leaving the soil in excellent condition for any succeeding crops. Hemp is an extremely durable fabric, and it has eight times the strength of cotton. Hemp outwears cotton and other natural fabrics. Hemp is also more insulating, absorbent and improves with washing and wearing. I personally have never used or felt anything made with hemp so I am not sure about the feel.

There are a lot of stores and brands that are starting to make eco friendly clothing and bags. It can be a little hard to find these types of items, but it is not impossible.

2008 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

2008-12-01T15:46:00.009-05:00

Tune in December 3rd at 10/9C on CBS or check your local listings to see the show. Here are pictures

thanks to fashionism.ca for most of the pictures.

AMA Trends

2008-11-25T15:02:00.003-05:00

The AMAs (American Music Awards) were on this past Sunday. The trends on the red were lots of beading (whether a lot or just a little), a-semetrical necklines and romantic ruffles. Most of the dresses ended above the knee but there were some full length ones. Here are some pictures thanks to JustJared.

Cute as a Button

2008-11-22T19:44:00.005-05:00

Claire's Stores are full of accessories and fun stuff, including these pieces. Buttons seemed to inspire the designer.

(it's a pin)

Totally Out There Holiday Items

2008-11-11T13:55:00.008-05:00

Fred Flare is known for its crazy items sometimes and the holidays are no exception! Here are some items I thought I would share with you.

This Christmas tree magically sprouts to life for your enjoyment! Kit includes "magic" water to help you grow your own crystallized holiday decoration!!
$9 USD.

Just as Olive is no ordinary reindeer, this is no ordinary advent calendar!! Featuring a pop-up of Santa’s castle in the center, this calendar has a fun surprise under each window – a cute stand-up pal to welcome the season!
$10.95 USD.

Nyokki means “grow” in Japanese and that’s exactly what these cute ceramic friends will do! Made by hand in Japan then filled with rye grass seed, simply add water and set upon window sill to sprout in no time. Each sold
separately. $14 USD each.

It’s c-c-cold outside… so why not warm up with Snoopy and the rest of the gang!? This exclusive hot cocoa set from Good Grief Café includes smores, candy cane, vanilla and hazelnut flavoured cocoa mixes. Pack of 4. Just add water and enjoy! Yum!
$10 USD for the pack of 4.

No need to proceed gingerly... This candylicious felt giftbag will make any present you stash all the more special! Makes a terrific goody bag for your Holiday party. 6”x6”x2.5”
$10 USD.

Rudolph and buddies bring you the sweetest stocking stuffers from the North Pole! Set of 4 delish flavoured lip balm includes Blueberry Blast, Rockin’ Raspberry, Peppermint Twist and Berry Bubblegum! Each contains 14 oz. Yum! Set of 4 is $12 USD.

Let Andy Warhol help you to celebrate the season in purrfect style! Set of 12 cards w/ envelopes in two colors. The cat with wreath says “Happy Holidays” and the blue kitty on red background reads “Merry Christmas”. 5.75”x4.25” Set includes six of each in folded box. $12 USD.

Red is a great color on Rudolph and will also be on you. Time to get festive with a playful compact of cherry-flavoured lip gloss that features that famous blinking nose. A great stocking stuffer! About 3”.
$8 USD.
Have a blast celebrating the festival of lights all while keeping your wine nice and fresh for that party later! Menorah acts as a cork and fits secure into any sturdy bottle. Safe and sturdy menorah is perfect for 8 nights of fun!! Candles not included. Measures about 11”x3.5”
$15 USD
If you consider the years we have enjoyed A Charlie Brown Christmas, Snoopy and the gang are practically extended family! This 18” replica of the tree featured in the film makes a nostalgic decoration for any room or office cubicle. Adjustable wire branches, plastic needles and tiny wood base. Includes one ruby ball ornament. In a reusable box.
$20 USD.
Junkfood brand. Green is women's $24 USD. Red is men's $28 USD.

Real porcelain. Comes in a set of 4 includes pocket watch, key, shoe and
pipe. $100 USD.
Well I hoped you enjoyed them. There is actually a few more I did not show. Check out the store for more stuff!

The Little Black Dress

2008-11-02T12:20:00.039-05:00

This article was inspired by one of my favourite movies; Breakfast at Tiffany’s. This movie is known for the little black dresses the character Holly Golightly (played by the always fashionable Audrey Hepburn) wore throughout the film.

So what is a little black dress (LBD)? A little black dress is a simple evening or cocktail dress. Often, but not always does the LBD have a short skirt. The little black dress was originally made popular in the 1920s by the fashion designer Coco Chanel. She wanted to create a dress that outlasted trends, was versatile, affordable and accessible to a wide variety of women. The colour black is a neutral colour so it just fit in simply.The little black dress can be dressed up or down to accommodate the occasion. All you need is the right accessories.

Dressing Down:
Boots
Flats
Bolder heels
Pops of colour in accessories
Bigger, funkier bags
Colourful tights

Here’s an example:

Dress: Delia’s, $39.50; boots: Alloy, $39.50; Bag: Alloy, $34.50; Earrings: Alloy, $14.50.

Dressing Up:
Simpler accessories
Dressier shoes
Plain tights in mainly black, skin colour or white
Small bag; clutch if possible

Here’s an example with the same dress:

Dress: Delia’s, $39.50; shoes: Alloy, $29.50; tights: Alloy, 2 for $7.50; clutch: Payless, $14.99; Necklace: Fred Flare, $10.

See it’s as simple as that. You can dress up or dress down, just think about the accessories and the occasion. Have Fun!

Dresses:
(Please note that for many of the dresses shown here, they can come in other colours.)

Dress 1: Lulu’s, $64; shoes: Lulu’s, $29.00; Dress 2: Lulu’s, $44.00; shoes: Lulu’s, $106.00

Dress 3: Alloy, $36.50-38.50; Dress 4: Alloy, $42.50-44.50

Dress 3: Delia’s, $39.50; Dress 4: Delia’s, $44.50

Dress 5: Delia’s, $44.50; Dress 6: Delia’s, $44.50

Shoes and Accessories:

Shoe 1: Payless, $38.00; Shoe 2: Payless, $19.99

Shoe 3: Fred Flare, $28.00; Shoe 4: Alloy, $39.50

Shoe 5: Alloy, $34.50; Green Bow Purse: Fred Flare, $14.00

Key necklace: Fred Flare, $12.00; Watch Locket necklace: Fred Flare $22.00

Black headband: Delia’s, $8.50; Purple headband: Delia’s, $9.50

Save the Whales!

2008-10-27T11:54:00.002-04:00

This is not fashion related but I just wanted to ask you to join SocialVibe.com and sign the petition to save the whales.

The goal is 1,000,000 signatures on SocialVibe.com for the exclusive Whaleman Foundation petition. The goal is to stop all commercial whaling and lethal scientific research whaling by Japan, Norway, Iceland, and to enforce the current global whaling moratorium. This petition will be taken to the June 2009 meeting of The International Whaling Commission.

It's easy, free and you are actually doing something!

So please join and save the whales.

Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel

2008-10-26T13:23:00.002-04:00

I have mentioned Chanel numerous times but never gave her biography- until now.

Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel (August 19, 1883 – January 10, 1971) as born the second daughter of traveling salesman Albert Chanel and Jeanne Devolle in the small city of Saumur, Maine-et-Loire, France. In 1895, when she was 12 years old, Chanel's mother died of tuberculosis and her father left the family a short time later because he needed to work to raise his children. Because of his work, the young Chanel spent seven years in the orphanage where she learned the trade of a seamstress. When Coco turned eighteen, she left the orphanage, and took up work for a local tailor.

In 1913, she opened up her very first shop which sold a range of fashionable raincoats and jackets. Situated in the heart of Paris, France it wasn't long before the shop went out of business and Chanel was asked to surrender her properties. This did not discourage Chanel; it only made her more determined. During the pre-war era, Chanel met up with an estranged and former best friend of Étienne Balsan, Arthur "Boy" Capel, whom she soon fell in love with. With his assistance, Chanel was able to acquire the property and financial backing to open her second millinery shop in Brittany, France. Her hats were worn by celebrated French actresses, which helped to establish her reputation. In 1913, Chanel introduced women’s sportswear.

All her clothes were emblazoned with the famous Chanel symbol, the interlocking "C"s. This, however, was not her own design. The symbol was given to her by the owner of the Chateau de Cremat (a Chateau on the outskirts of Nice in the south of France). Chanel always kept the clothing she designed simple and comfortable and revealing. She was instrumental in helping to design the image of the 1920s flapper, a "new breed" of young women who wore short skirts, bobbed their hair, listened to jazz music, and flaunted their disdain for what was then considered acceptable behavior. The flappers were seen as brash for wearing excessive makeup, drinking, smoking, driving automobiles, and showing a lot of skin.
In 1939, at the beginning of World War II, the designer closed her shops. She believed that it was not a time for fashion. 1954, was the year she returned to the fashion world. Her new collection did not have much success with the Parisians because of her relationship with a Nazi spy during the war; however, it was much applauded by the Americans, who were to become her most popular buyers.

Long after her death, the Chanel empire still carries on. The German designer Karl Lagerfeld has been, since 1983, the art director of Chanel, both for the haute couture and prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear).

Patterns and Textiles

2008-10-08T15:32:00.020-04:00

When someone says something like 'houndstooth' do you know what they are talking about? Well here are some patterns and textile names with pictures.

Houndstooth (also known as houndstooth check)

- seen in fashion

Tweed

-seen in fashion and home decor

Herringbone

-seen in fashion and home decor

-also a type of brickwork pattern

Gingham

- seen in fashion and some home decor

Damask

-seen in home decor (painted on walls, on wallpaper or in actual items like pillows)

Tartan (also known as plaid)

-seen in fashion

Toile (pronounced twall)

-used with home decor

Paisley

-used in fashion (men's ties included)

Toilet Paper Dresses for a Cause

2008-09-29T13:00:00.011-04:00

You probably have seen Cashmere's commercial on their toilet paper dress.

There have also been many magazine advertisements showing dresses constructed out of Cashmere's toilet paper.

More recently, eight leading Canadian designers designed their very own toilet paper dresses to raise breast cancer awareness.

The one-of-a-kind show is entirely crafted from 100 per cent soft and luxurious sheets of bathroom tissue. This year’s collection also includes new, limited-edition Pink Cashmere, Canada’s first coloured bathroom tissue in a decade. Twenty-five cents from the sale of every package will go to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

Stella McCartney

2008-09-24T15:53:00.003-04:00

The fashion designer, Stella Nina McCartney, was born in 1971 and is the daughter of Beatle Sir Paul McCartney and his first wife Linda McCartney. Stella studied fashion design at Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design in the early 1990s and graduated in 1995.
At the age of 25, in 1997, her first big break was succeeding Karl Lagerfeld at the French fashion house Chloe. McCartney left Chloe in 2001 to set up her own label in partnership with the Gucci Group. Stella was praised for capturing the imagination of ladies like herself with the sexy girliness of her designs. However, she was also criticized for collections that were uneven and creating a few pieces that had rather racy phrases on them; “Keep You Bananas Off My Melons” was printed on a tee for example.
No matter the controversy for some pieces, this designer is a favourite for many.

“When I was younger, I used to think that, if I left school and got a job, I would have everything figured out. Then, I left school and realized I was still trying to figure things out. Now, of course, I understand I’ll never figure it all out.”
“I’m so sick of this ‘my parents’ thing. It’s not my fault. It’s been that way my whole life. When I would make a good drawing in primary school, it was because my dad was famous. Or if I got a part in a school play, it was because Dad was a Beatle. What do I do? Do I become a smack-head and live off my parents’ fortune or do I have my own life?”

Credit goes to Wikipedia and Flare magazine September 2008 issue.

Pictures are of Stella’s Fall 2008 collection.

Fall/Winter 2008 Fashions

2008-09-23T15:33:00.013-04:00

Fall is now officially upon us, so here are the trends for this fall and winter:

Plaids are still in but you can branch out to more bold plaid prints. The choice is yours with how bold you want your plaids.

It may be the fall but florals are still in, but mostly as small prints.

Animal prints have become bolder with bright colours, although you can still stick with the natural animal print looks.

Girly, cutesy prints are still in (hello kitty, bunnies and such) so don’t throw away those pieces from your wardrobe.

Cable knits will keep us warm; one sweater from Alloy gives this classic a new vibe by having the sleeve ¾ long. Don’t be afraid of ¾ sleeves, you can choose to wear long sleeve shirts underneath.

You don’t always have to go dark in the fall/winter; bright blues and other bright colours can be found all year round.

Prepster looks are huge thanks to the Gossip Girl characters. You don’t have to go all out prep school chick, just a preppy sweater with virtually any top underneath and a pair of jeans can look good.

With the weather getting colder in the Northern hemisphere, hats and scarves become major staples in outfits. We also begin to wear tights more and more. This year opaque tights can be found in tons of bright colours. There are also tights that have patterns.

Those are the basics!

Designer Bike

2008-09-14T13:38:00.008-04:00

I recently came across these two items on a great site; http://www.purseblog.com/.

Chanel

This Limited Edition Chanel Bike is the ultimate in two-wheeled novelty. Includes quilted leather handles, seat, pant guard, even the bike pump is covered in Chanel’s signature quilted leather. The bike also features two quilted flap bags and a jewelry roll behind the seat, all of which are detachable and can be used as individual shoulder bags.

With only 50 made and less than 20 available in the US, this creation retailed for $17,000, with reseller markups hitting $28,000 already.

Hermes also has a bike too. You can see it and read the article by clicking on the link below.
http://www.purseblog.com/hermes/the-hermes-bicycle.html

Original Chanel bike article is here:
http://www.purseblog.com/chanel-bags/the-17000-chanel-bicycle.html

DKNY Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear

2008-09-10T10:30:00.004-04:00

Here are my favourites from the Fall 2008 RTW line from DKNY.

Gucci Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear

2008-09-09T10:01:00.004-04:00

Here are my favourites of the Fall 2008 line from Gucci.

Chanel Fall 2008 RTW and Couture

2008-09-04T12:27:00.004-04:00

Here are my favourites from Chanel's fall 2008 collection in both Ready-to-Wear and Couture.

Ready-to-Wear:

Couture:

Liquid Leggings: Celeb Trend

2008-08-31T14:19:00.009-04:00

For this year it seems that liquid leggings are a trend of celebrities. From the girls of Gossip Girl to Miley Cyrus, it seems that many are taking a liking to these leggings. They are shiny and to me look like they don't breathe very well. Every celebrity has their own way of rocking them; from wearing them with heels to wearing them with sneakers.

Do you really think they will take off in the real world?

Gossip Girl Tributes to Audrey Hepburn

2008-08-22T16:49:00.008-04:00

The character Blair Waldorf on Gossip Girl loves Audrey Hepburn. In the first season of Gossip Girl, Blair had two dreams that were her versions of two scenes from Breakfast At Tiffany's.

The above is from the episode Bad News Blair

The above is from the episode The Blair Bitch Project

Blair's bedroom also has this picture of Audrey framed.

The Christmas episode was called Roman Holiday. Blair's father and his boyfriend (Roman) come for Christmas. While they were they her father told her that they got a cat and named it Cat for for (the cat in Breafast at Tiffany's was named Cat)

This season coming up (second), there will be a bit on yet another Audrey film; My Fair Lady. Pictures of Leighton Meester (Blair) and Blake Lively (Serena) are from http://justjared.buzznet.com/.

I'm sure there will be mentions of Audrey and maybe even more bits that tribute to the great Audrey Hepburn.

Thanks to:

http://www.gossipgirlonline.net/ for the Gossip Girl pictures (other than the two from JustJared)

http://www.fabaudrey.com/ for the Audrey Hepburn pictures

Eye Catching Bags

2008-08-22T16:20:00.021-04:00

You can easily make a boring outfit pop with a great eye catching bag.

Designer bags:

Chloe, Kerala Bag $1070

Emilio Pucci, Sundial Canvas Beach Bag $795

Fendi bag $1860

Chloe full on leather tote $720

Stella McCartney Velvet clutch $695

Mulberry Poppy $1195

Marc by Marc Jacobs unknown price

Marc by Marc Jacobs Faridah $450

Marc by Marc Jacobs oversized tote $190

Marc Jacob Blake Classic Tote $1195

Mulberry Milton $1595

Bags from stores that are more affordable:

Rue 21 Store $16.99

Rue 21 Store $14.99

Rue 21 Store $16.99

Roxy $25.50

Payless Shoe Source $14.99

Payless Shoe Source $19.99

Roxy $42

Fred Flare $18.00

Fred Flare $45.00

Colourful Tights

2008-08-15T12:03:00.005-04:00

The first season of Gossip Girl (dvd set comes out August 19) inspired me to talk about one of the main fashion staples that kept on showing up in many episodes; lots of bright colour tights. It first started with Blair early on in the season but then branched out to Jenny and then to everyone- including females who watch the show and beyond! This fall colourful tights can be bought at many stores near you and in a massive variety of colours.

Nature Inspired Shoes

2008-08-10T12:38:00.005-04:00

Spring 2008, Prada came out with what I think is very original; flower heels. They have a couple types and come in many colours.

For Fall 2008, Chloe showed off their take on nature inspired shoes; this time it's leaves.

Different veiw:

There are more like this Chloe shoe and in other colours.

With one do you like better? I kind of think the first two Prada shoes are quite ugly but the last two are better. Chloe's shoes seem interesting and kind of pretty.

Mischa Barton's Bag Line

2008-07-30T15:08:00.004-04:00

The 22-year-old former O.C. star has a fourteen bag collection with prices ranging from $43 for a clutch to $323 for a leather satchel. Mischa’s signature emblem is a a clover with cut-out heart designs.

http://www.asos.com/Women/Brands-At-Asos/Mischa-Barton/Cat/pgecategory.aspx?cid=5153

Rachel Bilson's Edie Rose

2008-07-30T14:59:00.004-04:00

Rachel Bilson has teamed up with DKNY Jeans to create her very own clothing line.

What is interesting is that Bilson contacted DKNY Jeans, and not the other way around. “Fans of ‘The O.C.’ really like DKNY Jeans, and I know they make great stuff, so I thought it could be good,” she explained.

Set to be called Edie Rose for DKNY Jeans (named after her grandmother and a family friend) the collection will be a fashion forward junior sportswear line set to hit stores this September. Consisting of 15 sportswear pieces, it will include button-down tops, sweaters, jackets, T-shirts, dresses and straight leg and skinny leg dark denim jeans. The mostly black and white colour palette will be offset by pops of yellow, said to be inspired by a yellow scarf Bilson owns.
“I have a yellow scarf that I love and I was really inspired by it,” Bilson said. “This line is my main focus right now,” she said. “I can’t draw at all, so I won’t be doing any sketches, but I am learning to sew. I think it’s important to know more about the whole process of making clothes.”
The Edie Rose for DKNY Jeans collection will be between $19.50 and $49.50 per piece.

Joined by models, Fabienne Vanderhaeghen, Regina Feoktistova and Giedre Dukaskaite, Bilson was photographed by Mikael Jansson modeling a chic black dress belted down with a red belt with a funky vest. At first glance, the line is edgy with Bilson’s relaxed style showing through in each of the pieces.

The collection will launch in the beginning of September in stores like Macy’s, Dillard’s and Nordstrom.
“I want people to see these clothes for what they are, not just another line designed by another celebrity,” she said. “I want the line to be taken seriously.”
“I am just amazed at how the team at DKNY Jeans were able to listen to my ideas and come out with exactly what I was talking about. They literally brought my ideas to life,” Rachel added. “I also want to show people that you don’t have to pay a million dollars for clothes that look good. For me, I love vintage clothes and I shop vintage all the time. It’s fun to play and put things together. You don’t have to spend a lot to get a great look.”

Grace Kelly

2008-07-18T14:25:00.004-04:00

Born (November 12, 1929) and raised in Philadelphia, Grace Patricia Kelly grew up in a wealthy family. Growing up her father considered the runt of his off springs because she was shy, delicate and had asthma. Her siblings were very much unlike Grace so she often felt excluded. Grace began to blossom as attended Raven Hill Elementary school. Grace ended up be very rebellious growing up. She graduated Steven School, a high school, in 1947.
Not long after her graduation, Grace went to New York City for an acting audition, but they told her to get rid of her twang. Grace ended up mocking an English accent to do this and ended up with an accent that was pretty much considered her signature.
At the age of 20, Grace stumbled into modeling while pursuing her acting career in New York. She made her Broadway debut in 1949 and soon began to make appearances on television dramas. In the summer of 1951, Grace moved to Hollywood and joined the MGM family. She had a small, but breakthrough role in ‘High Noon’. She went on to work with Alfred Hitchcock in ‘Dial “M” for Murder’ and ‘Rear Window’.
After a few films Grace came across Country Girl’s script. She wanted it because it portrayed an amazing, but unglamorous lead character. MGM did not want Grace to play the part but Grace convinced them. She ended up winning an Academy Award in 1955 for the film.
While at the Caned Film Festival in 1955, Grace was invited and reluctantly agreed to meet the Prince of Monaco. They had a photo session as the Prince gave her a tour of his home. There seemed to be a spark between them and once Grace returned back to the States they kept in contact. For Christmas Grace invited him to her family home. After 24 hours they decided to marry. Not long after Grace had a physical to make sure she would be able to produce an heir.
High Society was Grace’s first musical and the Prince said it would be her last film. Years later she would be asked by Alfred Hitchcock to make a fourth film with him but she had to decline because the people of Monaco did not approve.
On April 4th 1956, Grace took a boat over to Monaco and was bombarded by press. The Prince and Grace were married on April 19 1956. They experienced a massive media assault and Grace hated her wedding because of it. Grace became HSH Princess Grace of Monaco. The Prince’s family snubbed her and Grace had a tough time adapting to Monaco. Nine months after the wedding, Grace gave birth to daughter Caroline and a son later on. After that she has a few miscarriages but in 1965 she gave birth to another girl, Stephanie.
Grace missed acting and she would often read poetry. She even narrated a film in the 70s.
Grace began complaining of frequent headaches. On the morning of September 13, 1982, she drove herself and Stephanie from their country home to the palace. Unfortunately, the road was a very bad and full of sharp turns. They went over a cliff. Stephanie survived but Grace was put into a coma. After taking x-rays, the doctors found she had two brain injuries. One was the cause of a stroke and the other was because of the crash. Grace stayed in a coma for 24 hours before the family said their goodbyes and she was taken off life support.

(Audrey Hepburn is the woman in the background)

Cyd Charisse

2008-07-09T16:21:00.004-04:00

Charisse was born on March 8th 1922 as Tula Ellice Finklea in Amarillo, Texas. Her nickname "Sid" was taken from a sibling trying to say "Sis"; was later spelled "Cyd" at MGM to supposedly give her an air of mystery. She was a sickly girl who started dancing lessons at six to build up her strength after a bout with polio.

She joined a dance company and soon travelled all over performing. At one point during a European tour, she met up with Nico Charisse, a handsome young dancer she had studied with for a time in Los Angeles. They married in Paris in 1939 and Cyd gave birth to their son in 1942. Nico and Cyd divorced a few years later in 1947 and Cyd remarried singer Tony Martin in 1948. Tony and Cyd were married almost 60 years when Cyd died. (Picture of Tony and Cyd below)

She starred many films including The Band Wagon (1953), Silk Stockings (1957) and Brigadoon (1954).After the decline of the Hollywood musical in the late 1950s, Charisse retired from dancing but continued to appear in film and TV productions from the 1960s through the 1990s.

In her eighties, Charisse made occasional public appearances and appeared frequently in documentaries spotlighting the golden age of Hollywood. Publicist Gene Schwam said Charisse was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, on June 16, 2008 after suffering an apparent heart attack. She died the following day,June 17, aged 86.

Scene from The Band Wagon.

Cyd made a brief appearance (just this scene) in Singing in the Rain.

What is Haute Couture?

2008-06-25T11:49:00.001-04:00

Haute couture (French translation means "high dressmaking") refers to the creation of exclusive custom-fitted fashions. The term haute couture is a protected name by law that can be used only by firms that meet certain well-defined standards. However, the term is also used loosely to describe all high-fashion custom-fitted clothing, whether it is produced in Paris or in other fashion capitals such as Milan, London, Rome, New York and Tokyo.

The Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de states that only "those companies mentioned on the list drawn up each year by a commission domiciled at the Ministry for Industry are entitled to avail themselves" of the label haute couture. The criteria for haute couture were established in 1945 and updated in 1992.

To earn the right to call itself a couture house and to use the term haute couture in its advertising and any other way, members of the Chambre syndicale de la haute couture must follow these rules:
~Design made-to-order for private clients, with one or more fittings.
~Have a workshop in Paris that employs at least fifteen people full-time.
~Each season (i.e., twice a year), present a collection to the Paris press, comprising at least thirty-five runs with outfits for both daytime wear and evening wear.

The term haute couture has been misused by successive ready-to-wear brands and high street labels since the late 1980s so that its true meaning has become blurred with that of ready-to-wear fashion in the public perception. Every haute couture house also markets ready-to-wear collections, which typically deliver a higher return on investment than their custom clothing. In fact, much of the haute couture displayed at fashion shows today is rarely sold; it is created to enhance the prestige of the house. Falling revenues have forced a few couture houses to abandon their less profitable couture division and concentrate solely on the less prestigious ready-to-wear.

In the 1960s a group of young designers who had trained under men like Dior and Balenciaga left these established couture houses and opened their own establishments. One of the most successful of these young designers was Yves Saint Laurent.

Thanks Wikipedia for the information.

R.I.P YSL

2008-06-09T16:13:00.013-04:00

Yves Henri Donat Mathieu Saint Laurent (August 1, 1936 – June 1, 2008) was a French fashion designer who was considered as one of the greatest designers to date.

Saint Laurent left home at the age of 17 for Paris to work for the French designer Christian Dior. Following Dior's death in 1957, Yves, at the age of 21, was put in charge of the effort of saving the Dior house from financial ruin.

Hard Times
Shortly after this success, he was conscripted to serve in the French Army during the Algerian War of Independence. After 20 days, the stress of being hazed by fellow soldiers led the fragile Saint Laurent to be institutionalized in a French mental hospital, where he underwent psychiatric treatment, including electroshock therapy, for a nervous breakdown.

The Beginning of Something Great
In 1962, in the wake of his nervous breakdown, Saint Laurent was released from Dior and he and his lover, Pierre Bergé, started their own fashion house with funding from millionaire J. Mack Robinson. The couple split romantically in 1976 but remained business partners.

Many Firsts

Through Yves career he set many trends.

~He was the first to take works of art and interperate them in fashion.

~He inspiration from other cultures (Russia, China, Africa are just a few examples)

~His recreation of silhouettes from the 1920s, '30s and '40s were the first 'retro' looks.

~In 1966 he was yet again the first to popularize ready-to-wear fashion.

~He was also the first to create a classic tuxedo suit for women in 1966, the line being called Le Smoking.

~Yves was also the first designer to use black models in his runway shows.

~In 1983, Saint Laurent became the first living fashion designer to be honored by the Metropolitan Museum of Art with a solo exhibition.

His Honour and Retirement
In 2001, he was awarded the rank of Commander of the Légion d'Honneur by French president Jacques Chirac. He retired in 2002 after about 40 years in the business and became increasingly reclusive. He created a foundation with Pierre Bergé in Paris to trace the history of the house of YSL, complete with 15,000 objects and 5,000 pieces of clothing.

A Legend Has Died
He died on June 1, 2008 from the effects of brain cancer, at his residence in Paris. YSL is buried in Marrakech Morocco.

Canada Olympic 2008 Fahions

2008-05-30T12:52:00.003-04:00

On April 30, 2008 a fashion show was conducted with the models wearing a selection of the Bay's Olympic apparel line that Canadian athletes will be provided with for the Beijing games.

For consumers, the Bay design team has played with bold patterns and graphics in an ebullient mix of Canadian and Chinese icons and colours. Much of it is produced in super-light, silky fabrics, and eco-friendly materials

Most of the collection, which has taken a year to complete, was made in China. In a news release Hbc executives insist all factories producing merchandise "were audited and, where needed, improvements were made in the factories in order to comply with Hbc's longstanding Code of Vendor Conduct."
Prices range from $20 for a white Ming cadet cap to $40 for a polo and $140 for a rolling upright suitcase.

Each athlete receives 25 pieces from the collection.
Colour figures prominently in the commercial collection.
They started with an examination of both countries' dramatic landscapes and ultimately narrowed the palette to colours that reflect the five Chinese elements of astrology – fire, wood, water, earth and metal. Canadian and Chinese symbols are mixed in a chinoiserie motif in "Great Lakes" blue and "jade" green, for example. "And not just any blue – a beautiful tealy-greeny blue," qualifies Timmins. A tattoo design features a prominent red maple leaf surrounded by brilliant green and blue swirls and waves of colour.
As well, the number "8" is a recurring theme throughout the collection – in a fine repeated lattice print or stacked graphically as a tape down the outside seam of track pants. (The Olympics officially start on the eighth day of the eighth month at the eighth hour.) "Eight is a very lucky number for the Chinese," says Timmins.
They learned lessons from the past. For example, "the athletes melted in Athens," Timmins recalls, so everything designed for the Beijing Games is super lightweight. "It could be 45 degrees in Beijing in August."
Designer Ly says various fabrics have "built-in cooling factors, moisture-wicking technology and are UV resistant." As well, for environmentalists, some fabrics are created from bamboo and organic cotton.

Women's Short-Sleeve Canada Tee $25

Women's Cross Back Dress (Fire) $45

Women's French Terry Full Zip Hoodie (Tapestry) $65

Creepy Head Bags

2008-05-18T13:56:00.004-04:00

This Head Hand Bag was created by designer Yael Mer. It's creepy and controversial. Apparently, the biblical story about Judith and Holofernes and its visual representation from the Renaissance were inspiration for the design of the bag. I wasn't able to come across the price, although I did indeed try. Oh, and it comes in three colours. I personally, being white, would be afraid to carry the brown one. I would never buy this bag anyways.

Lego Accessories

2008-05-09T15:12:00.003-04:00

I saw this on Flare.com and thought it was interesting!

The Spring 2008 Marc by Marc Jacobs show thought outside the toy box by featuring Lego block barrettes, belts and necklaces. A brilliant homage to geek chic, the accessories are at once nostalgic, futuristic and a whole lot of fun. For a more accessible version, check out Thera's new collection of Lego rings on http://www.therajewellery.com/. Priced at $160 each, the Toronto based bauble brand reclaims the toy blocks and fashions them into a sweet eco-chic alternative.

The Hills Girls Get Clothing Lines

2008-04-25T13:53:00.005-04:00

First Lauren Conrad announced she was developing a clothing line, then it was ex-friend Heidi Montag and now Whitney Port has announced a clothing line fo her own. So who's line offers what?

Whitney’s new party wear clothing line, Eve & A, is a seventeen-piece collection featuring convertible dresses, tops and jackets priced $40 to $250. Not too much said yet about it and no pictures are yet available.

Lauren's line is high-end fashion with many items over $100. She has always wanted to be a fashion designer and seems to be getting positive reveiws from many.

http://laurenconrad.seenon.com/

Heidi's line called Heidiwood and the items retail for around $10 to $60. Let's just say many think the items are horrible fitting, made with cheap fabric and are kind of skanky (and this is being nice!).

Best Earring Styles for Your Face Shape

2008-04-15T13:26:00.004-04:00

You don't actually have to abide by these rules it's just sometimes helpful.

Round
If your face is round, you would do well to avoid large circular earrings, because they will only accentuate this feature. Stay away from hoop earrings for the same reason. To give your face a little more angle, try a long earring with a slight curve or a square or rectangular style.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Oval
An oval face shape is said to be the most ideal because it works with most hairstyles, jewellery and makeup. If you have an oval face, you have a lot of freedom when it comes to choosing earrings. Anything from tiny sparkly studs to spiral dangles will look great on you. The one type you might want to avoid is extremely long earrings that will elongate your face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Heart
A heart shaped face is characterized by a wide forehead that tapers into a tiny narrow chin. The type of earrings that will work for these people are the exact opposite shape of their face. Look for chandelier or teardrop earrings. Steer clear of heart shapes or triangles with the wide part at the top.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Square
With this face shape you’ll want to avoid anything that adds extra edge to your already angular face. So obviously, square and rectangular shapes are out. Anything with curving lines will help soften your face.

Edith Head

2008-04-08T12:52:00.007-04:00

Edith Head (October 28, 1897 – October 24, 1981) was an American costume designer who had a long career in Hollywood that garnered her more Academy Awards than any other woman in history. She graduated from university in 1919 and became a school teacher at Bishops School in La Jolla, California.

With no experience, Head answered an advertisement to work for Paramount Pictures in the costume department. She borrowed another's sketches and passed them off as her own. She began designing costumes for silent films and by the 1930s had established herself as one of the leading designers. She worked at Paramount for 44 years until she went to Universal Pictures on March 27, 1967, possibly prompted by her extensive work for director Alfred Hitchcock, who had moved to Universal in 1960. During her long career she was nominated for 35 Academy Awards, including every year from 1948 through 1966, and won eight times, more Oscars than any other woman has won. She was responsible for some of the best-known Hollywood fashion images of her day, with her costumes being worn by the most glamorous and famous actresses in films seen by millions. Head's influence on world fashion was far reaching, especially in the 1950s when she began appearing on Art Linkletter's television program and writing books on fashion. In 1967 she left Paramount Pictures, and joined Universal where she remained until her death in 1981.

Head was a very private woman, a trait well illustrated by the dark sunglasses that became her trademark. Originally the lenses were blue, but later they were increasingly dark shades of gray. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6504 Hollywood Blvd.

Why the World is Coming to an End:The Expantion of Crocs

2008-03-28T13:40:00.013-04:00

MTV Live (Canada) says there are signs that the world is coming to an end. The main one; Croc heels. Yes. Crocs have expanded to heels, wedges, shoes and more.

There are crocs for the sports fans, children and men!

Even Skechers has jumped on the band wagon and has its own live of these shoes.

Yes, those are rhinestones.

Introducing Abbey Dawn

2008-03-23T15:07:00.014-04:00

Avril Lavigne will be launching her own juniors clothing line in July (2008). It will consist of apparel and jewelry that are feminine and flirty, but with the rocker edge Lavigne is known for. The brand will be available in Kohl's stores only in the U.S. Abbey Dawn does not yet have a Canadian retailer finalized but will BEFORE the July launch. Abbey Dawn is apparently a nickname that Lavigne's dad gave her. The threads (ranging from $24 to $48) mimic the singer's signature skater-girl-chic style and include hoodies, jeans and tees in bright colors and skull and zebra patterns. Lavigne, who had a hand in everything from choosing fabrics to collaborating on designs, plans to wear the line during her Best Damn Tour, which just recently launched this month.

Avril has recently said, “a lot of hot pinks and blacks and stars and purple and zebra. Basically, everything I wear. I have a very particular style. I want it to be available to a lot of girls, and I want it to be affordable. I walked through (a Los Angeles) Kohl’s the other day and said, ‘Oh, when my line is here it’s totally going to stand out.” Avril added, “I actually am the designer. What’s really important to me is that everything fits well and is well-made, so I try everything on and approve it all. I’m making sure that I think people in their 20s are going to wear it because it’s going to be a sexy fit, not just, ‘Oh, T-shirts and hoodies.’ The hoodies are slimming. It’s not a thick, bulky material.”

Here are two pictures from the tour. She is wearing Abbey Dawn tops:

Adore Dior?

2008-03-16T13:30:00.008-04:00

Christian Dior (January 21, 1905 – October 23, 1957), was an influential French fashion designer. He was born in Granville, Manche, Normandy, France. Dior flagship boutiques are found in Paris, London, Milan, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Las Vegas, and San Francisco.

Acceding to his parents' wishes, Dior attended the Ecole des Sciences Politiques from 1920 to 1925. The family, whose fortune was derived from the manufacture of fertilizer, had hopes he would become a diplomat, but Dior only wished to be involved in the arts. After leaving school he received money from his father so that in 1928 he could open a small art gallery, where he sold art by the likes of Pablo Picasso and Max Jacob. After a family financial disaster that resulted in his father losing his business, Dior was forced to shut down the gallery. In the 1930s Dior made a living by doing sketches for haute couture houses. In 1938 he worked with Robert Piguet and later joined the fashion house of Lucien Lelong, where he and Pierre Balmain were the primary designers. In 1945 he went into business for himself, backed by Marcel Boussac, the cotton-fabric magnate. Dior's fashion house opened in December 1946, and the following February, he presented his first collection, known as Corolle. It was more famously known as the New Look. The actual phrase the "New Look" was coined by Carmel Snow, the powerful editor-in-chief of Harper's Bazaar. Dior's designs were more voluptuous than the boxy, fabric-conserving shapes of the recent World War II styles, influenced by the rations on fabric. He was a master at creating shapes and silhouettes; Dior is quoted as saying "I have designed flower women." His look employed fabrics lined predominantly with percale, boned, bustier-style bodices, hip padding, wasp-waisted corsets and petticoats that made his dresses flare out from the waist, giving his models a very curvaceous form. The hem of the skirt was very flattering on the calves and ankles, creating a beautiful silhouette. Initially, women protested because his designs covered up their legs, which they had been unused to because of the previous limitations on fabric. There was also some backlash to Dior's designs form due to the amount of fabrics used in a single dress or suit--during one photo shoot in a Paris market, the models were attacked by female vendors over the profligacy of their dresses--but opposition ceased as the wartime shortages ended. The New Look revolutionized women's dress and reestablished Paris as the center of the fashion world after World War II.
Credit Wikipedia

His company still lives on without him and to this day is adored by many fashionistas.

Dior Gipsy Ruffled Medium Hobo
$1,755.00

Cannage Patent Bootie
$690.00

Small Flower Earrings
$210.00

Chrisitan Louboutin

2008-03-04T15:56:00.011-05:00

Christian Louboutin with Ashley Olsen

Cristian Louboutin was interested in women's fashion since he was a small child. In 1979, as he was walking alongside the streets of Paris, he noticed a billboard that instructed women tourists not to scratch the wooden floor in front of the Museum of Oceanic Art. Louboutin felt personally bothered by this sign and, as a consequence, he would draw shoes with compressed buckles and with soles. He admits to having spent a lot of time as a teenager drawing these types of shoes in his school notebooks. These shoes would become the base of Louboutin's sales as a designer.

Later on, Louboutin began attending parties and dance halls in Paris, offering his shoes to women at these events and venues. Most of the ladies rejected his shoes, claiming to have no money.

Louboutin then decided to attend various designing schools, such as Chanel's and Saint Laurent's.

Louboutin later opened a boutique shop in Paris; his store became distinguished not only because of his clientele, but also because he offered free coffee to shoppers. Such other sellers as American company Neiman Marcus began to sell Louboutin's designs. Louboutin shoes also have a trademark red leather sole, making them instantly recognizable. He got the idea from one of his employees. During a runway show Louboutin felt the shoe was missing something and saw that one of his employees had red Chanel nail polish on, and instantly, he felt that it would complete the shoe if he painted it on the sole of his shoe. Since then it became the signature of his shoes.

credit to wikipedia for this information

Prices for shoes shown here range from $500 and up.

Oscars 2008 Trends

2008-02-25T14:14:00.031-05:00

Yesterday was the 80th Annual Oscars. I noticed two trends that dramatically stood out. The colour red and mermaid style gowns.

The former supermodel and host of Television’s Project Runway, Heidi Klum, rocked the runway in a dramatic John Galliano gown.

Katherine Heigl of Grey’s Anatomy proved the colour trend for the night was red, the Emmy-winning actress brought back some old Hollywood glamour in this beautiful Escada gown.

Anne Hathaway looked fantastic on the Oscar red carpet in this stunning crimson draped one shoulder Marchesa gown and 10-carat Harry Winston diamond earrings.

Julie Christie looked not so good wearing this questionable crimson red dress. The worst part is how she accessorized with pink pumps and pink velvet gloves.

Helen Mirren seems to have been put on many people's worst dressed list this year. The dress was a custom-made Georges Chakra satin gown with Swarovski crystal sleeves.

Miley Ray Cyrus on the red carpet in red Valentino chiffon gown with bow detail and a bronze lizard clutch with Swarovski crystals by Mary Norton. She is wearing Sergio Rossi shoes.

This looks like it would be a hard dress to pull off but Best Actress winner Marion Cotillard took a fashion risk and maked it work. This mermaid gown by Jean Paul Gaultier.

Jennifer Garner looked glamorous in an Oscar de la Renta gown. Garner's black dress was truly over-the-top with a bottom that is resembled a flamenco-style skirt or a mermaid vibe.

Hilary Swank looked simply amazing in this dramatic one-shoulder mermaid Versace number.

Penelope Cruz wore a strapless, black, mermaid style gown. Sorry I do not know who it's by.

Amy Adams on the red carpet in Proenza Schuler.

Audrey Hepburn - Her Life Before Fame

2008-02-21T15:06:00.015-05:00

I've recently been trying to see some of her films (although as of right now I have not really seen any). She is a style icon and seems to have led a very interesting life even before her fame. All this information is from Wikipedia.

Audrey Hepburn (May 4, 1929–January 20, 1993) was an Academy Award- and Tony Award-winning Anglo-Dutch film and stage actress, fashion icon, and humanitarian. In 1999, she was ranked as the third greatest female star of all time by the American Film Institute. She also served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and was honoured with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work.

From 1935 to 1938, Hepburn attended a boarding school for girls in Kent. In 1935, her parents divorced and her father, a Nazi sympathizer, left the family. (Both parents were supposedly members of the British Union of Fascists in the mid-1930s and a follower of Adolf Hitler.) She later called her father's abandonment the most traumatic moment of her life. Years later, she located him in Dublin through the Red Cross. Although he remained emotionally detached, she stayed in contact with him and supported him financially until his death. In 1939, her mother moved her and her two half-brothers to their grandfather's home in Arnhem in the Netherlands. Audrey’s mother believed the Netherlands would be safe from German attack. Hepburn attended the Arnhem Conservatory from 1939 to 1945, where she trained in ballet along with the standard school curriculum. In 1940, the Germans invaded the Netherlands. By 1944, Hepburn had become a proficient ballerina. She secretly danced for groups of people to collect money for the Dutch resistance.
After the Allied landing on D-Day, living conditions grew worse. During the Dutch famine over the winter of 1944, the Germans confiscated the Dutch people's limited food and fuel supply for themselves. People starved and froze to death in the streets. Hepburn and many others resorted to making flour out of tulip bulbs to bake cakes and biscuits. Arnhem was devastated by Allied artillery fire that was part of Operation Market Garden. Hepburn's uncle and her mother's cousin were shot in front of Hepburn for being part of the Resistance. Hepburn's half-brother Ian van Ufford spent time in a German labour camp. Suffering from malnutrition, Hepburn developed acute anemia, respiratory problems, and oedema (swelling of an organ to put it simply).
In 1991, Hepburn said "I have memories. More than once I was at the station seeing trainloads of Jews being transported, seeing all these faces over the top of the wagon. I remember, very sharply, one little boy standing with his parents on the platform, very pale, very blond, wearing a coat that was much too big for him, and he stepped on to the train. I was a child observing a child."
Hepburn also noted the similarities between herself and Anne Frank: "I was exactly the same age as Anne Frank. We were both ten when war broke out and fifteen when the war finished. I was given the book in Dutch, in galley form, in 1946 by a friend. I read it – and it destroyed me. It does this to many people when they first read it but I was not reading it as a book, as printed pages. This was my life. I didn't know what I was going to read. I've never been the same again, it affected me so deeply."
"We saw young men put against the wall and shot and they'd close the street and then open it and you could pass by again. If you read the diary, I've marked one place where she says 'five hostages shot today'. That was the day my uncle was shot. And in this child's words I was reading about what was inside me and is still there. This child who was locked up in four walls had written a full report of everything I'd experienced and felt." These times were not all bad and she was able to enjoy some of her childhood. One way in which Audrey Hepburn passed the time was by drawing. Some of her childhood artwork can be seen today.
When the country was liberated, United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration trucks followed. Hepburn said in an interview she ate an entire can of condensed milk and then got sick from one of her first relief meals because she put too much sugar in her oatmeal. This experience is what led her to become involved in UNICEF later in life.

Swarovski Crystals

2008-02-16T14:12:00.009-05:00

Swarovski crystal was first created when Daniel Swarovski invented an automatic cutting machine in 1892. In 1895 the Swarovski company was founded when he established a crystal cutting factory in Wattens. Here he could take advantage of local hydroelectricity for the energy-intensive grinding processes he had patented.
Swarovski crystal contains approximately 32% lead to maximize refraction. The Swarovski Crystal range includes crystal sculptures and miniatures, jewelry and couture, home decor and chandeliers. They also sell beads and rhinestones, encouraging other manufacturers, artists and consumers to create their own designs.

In 2007 Swarovski formed a partnership with electronics giant Philips to produce the "Active-Crystals" consumer electronics range.

Sparkling products that are labelled 'Made with CRYSTALLIZEDTM - Swarovski Elements' guarantee the originality of Swarovski crystals used in creations of international fashion houses and designers.

Thank you Wikipedia for information on Swarovski (I heart wikipedia).

Linea-Pro’s Swarovski Crystal Encrusted flat iron Price tag $600. Seriously this is so over the top I can't put it into words.

There are so many things that don't need to have these crystals all over them. Here are more items with Swarovski crystals:

Swarovski crystal dog collar, $250
As my brother put it "now Fido can be bling blinged".

Someone spent one year covering their Hello Kitty bike in Swarovski crystals. Literally thousands of dollars were spent and it has approximately 50,000 crystals on it.

1920's Women's Fashion

2008-02-15T15:52:00.011-05:00

The picture below is one I recently came across of my great grandparents and two friends. It inspired me to write a little about women's fashion in the 1920s. My great grandmother is the woman in the hat and my great grandfather is the man on the right.

When we think of the 1920s we think of the “roaring 20s”. Strongly independent women were dubbed "flappers". The flappers had a lifestyle like no one had seen much of before the 1920s. In actuality flappers did not truly emerge until 1926. A fashionable flapper in the 20’s had short sleek hair (like the bob), a shorter than average shapeless shift dress (dubbed the flapper dress by many), a chest as flat as a board, wore make up and applied it in public, smoked with a long cigarette holder, exposed her limbs and epitomised the spirit of a reckless rebel who danced the nights away in the Jazz Age. In fact, the slender flat-chested, tanned body and face of a 15 year old became the desired silhouette of the bright young things of the 20s. Big busted girls turned to bandaging their breasts flat, but many adopted the Symington Side Lacer, a bra that could be laced at both sides and pulled and pulled in to flatten the chest.

Picture above is of actors Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford wearing fashions of the early 1920s.

Actress Alice Joyce in a straight evening gown with a sheer beaded overdress, 1926.

Pictures (excluding the one of my grandparents) thanks to Wikipedia.

Most of the information thanks to http://www.fashion-era.com/

Dear by Amanda Bynes

2008-02-07T14:52:00.000-05:00

It was around May (2007) when Steve & Barry’s announced that Amanda Bynes would be designing a line for them. The fashion line was named ‘dear’ and hit stores that August. It has now been a few months and some good hype about it so I will be featuring it in this month’s column.

I think that Amanda has always had great style but she wasn’t overly known for being a fashion icon. I was excited to see what the items would look like and I wasn’t disappointed when I did.

Amanda Bynes describes her line as “Fashionable, affordable and fun… (It’s targeted) at girls in school and then girls in college.”

For anyone who can get their hands on pieces from the line I must point out that every piece in the line is priced at $19.98 or less. Alright, so what’s the catch with a line that has nothing over $20 (U.S.)? I honestly do not know since I live in Canada (the line is only sold in America unfortunately). The press releases say it’s a high quality line but sold at low prices. How? “Steve & Barry's has revolutionized retailing by eliminating costs from every aspect of the business, including marketing, production, store operations and corporate expenses. For example, the company relies on word of mouth marketing vs. traditional advertising, analyzes the smallest details such as how to pack a truck to the most efficient ways possible, sources in non-traditional regions of the world, and eliminates luxuries other businesses take for granted.

More information about the Dear, or to see more outfits, go to the official sites: http://www.dearbyamanda.com/

27 Dresses

2008-01-30T15:20:00.000-05:00

I have not seen this movie as of yet, but I thought I would post this due to there being a lot of focus on fashion. From the trailers and stills there are some crazy bridesmaid's dresses.

27 Dresses is a 2008 romantic comedy film directed by Anne Fletcher and written by Aline Brosh McKenna. The film stars Katherine Heigl as Jane and James Marsden as Kevin. It opened on January 18, 2008

Plot Summary: Katherine Heigl (Knocked Up, Grey's Anatomy) is always a bridesmaid but never a bride in the romantic comedy "27 Dresses." From the screenwriter of "The Devil Wears Prada," "27 Dresses" centers on Jane (Heigl), an idealistic, romantic and completely selfless woman…a perennial bridal attendant whose own happy ending is nowhere in sight. But when younger sister Tess captures the heart of Jane's boss – with whom she is secretly in love – Jane begins to reexamine her "always-a-bridesmaid..." lifestyle. Jane has always been good at taking care of others, but not so much in looking after herself. Her entire life has been about making people happy – and she has a closet full of 27 bridesmaid dresses to prove it. One memorable evening, Jane manages to shuttle between wedding receptions in Manhattan and Brooklyn, a feat witnessed by Kevin (James Marsden), a newspaper reporter who realizes that a story about this wedding junkie is his ticket off the newspaper's bridal beat.Jane finds Kevin's cynicism counter to everything she holds dear – namely weddings, and the two lock horns. Further complicating Jane's once perfectly-ordered life is the arrival of younger sister Tess (Malin Akerman). Tess immediately captures the heart of Jane's boss, George (Edward Burns). Tess enlists her always-accommodating sister to plan yet another wedding – Tess and George's – but Jane's feelings for him lead to shocking revelations... and maybe the beginning of a new life.

Eco Friendly Shoes

2008-01-26T11:36:00.001-05:00

I saw an article on this shoe company in the Toronto Star (Friday January 25, 2008 issue) and thought it was very cool. Right below is a scan of the shoe they included in the article. Written below is my summary of the article.

Italian-based shoe company U Roads is using a familiar logo on its shoes, one that symbolizes being Eco friendly: Reduce, reuse, recycle.

All of the soles on the shoes are made with recycled tire. Some detailing also uses recycled tires. This is why most of the shoes have the embossed or engraved reduce, reuse, recycle logo.

Unlike many shoe companies, who have their products made in China or third world countries, U Roads shoes are handcrafted in Italy as well as Spain.

U Roads offeres modern and sleek runnners, flats, heels and dress shoes for men and women that range from $160 to $240.

The brand may not be 100% organic, but it is the only shoe company recognized by the United Nations Environmental Programme because the products are made with post-consumer recycled materials. Even the packaging is made from recycled paper.

For those who do not wear leather, there are styles that are made from canvas.

Now here is where I start to question the part about U Roads offering modern and sleek for men and women. I search U Roads websites collection and noticed that most of the shoes don't overly look like the one featured in the article. Many runners look rather... clunky and cheap. The article even boasted that while other brands that use recycled materials sacrifice style for the environment and produce chunky, clunky lace-ups and sandals, U Roads does not. I don't think that is 100% true. You decide what you think. Below are three shoes I've decided to include that I got from their website.

Kuromi - Watch out Hello Kitty

2008-01-21T14:16:00.000-05:00

If the Hello Kitty character is a little too cutesy for you, you're in luck! Kuromi is the new, adorably mischievous Sanrio character that seems to be stealing the hearts of many girls/ young women.

Kuromi is the rival of My Melody from the anime Onegai My Melody, was created by Sanrio, and voiced by Junko Takeuchi. She is a white rabbit-like creature, wearing a black jester's hat with a pink skull on the front and a black "devil" tail in the place of a normal rabbit's tail. Kuromi's appearance also looks similar to those of cartoon characters from the 1920's and 1930's.

source for this paragraph: Wikipedia

Kuromi product example:

Stores will probably be picking up this character too. Will Kuromi be a bigger hit than Hello Kitty? Only time will tell.

Rachel Bilson Fashion Icon

2008-01-16T14:41:00.001-05:00

Rachel Sarah Bilson (born August 25, 1981)is an American actress. After growing up in a California show business family, she made her television debut in 2003 and subsequently became well-known for playing Summer Roberts on the prime time dramedy series The O.C.

Rachel Bilson has been recognized by several media sources as being a "fashion junkie" She has described herself as having a "vintage" sense of style, and noted Kate Moss and Diane Keaton as inspirations. Her favorite designers are Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs and Chanel.

source: Wikipedia

I personally think that Rachel has amazing style. She takes risks and is often sporting new trends before anyone else. She seems to know how to work her short, tiny frame perfectly and can pull off many styles.

Necklace Trend Watch

2008-01-13T16:55:00.000-05:00

The most recent trend in necklaces is chains that have many charms and pendants on them.
Here are two examples:

I have noticed two trends recently and thought I would post my findings.

Crowns:

My cousin received a necklace with a 3-D crown being the pendant this christmas. I also noticed in a magazine i was flipping through there was a keychain that had a crown charm. The two examples below are the just a couple that I have come across. These ones are very glitzy though. The ones I've noticed are more rustic almost with a hint of goth.

Strawberries:

Recently, when I was at Zellers I noticed many pretty necklaces with strawberry pendants on them. They all seem to have little jewels to make it look like seeds of a real strawberry.

Moschino Fashion Lamps

2008-01-12T15:58:00.000-05:00

Moschino (usually a fashion designer) has breezed into the world of interiors with definitive epic-chic lamps: the boot, the bag and, my favourite, the bustier.

Seriously how gorgeous is the bustier lamps? I want both white and black, thank you!

Prada Pencil Case

2008-01-08T13:49:00.000-05:00

Yes, Prada has come out with a pencil case. It is designed with red leather and gold hardware and comes with two designer pencils. Price $205 (US).

SERIOUSLY!? $205 for a pencil case? Try buying one at the dollar store and then (if your so set on spending $205) donate $204 to a charity of your choosing! This is just ridiculous.

Metallic Jeans

2008-01-01T15:11:00.000-05:00

I've noticed that 2007 had just a few (more like a million) items that were metallic. Was it just me that noticed this - are metallic jeans trying to come out? Old Navy featured a commercial a couple months ago with a pair of jeans that had a "metallic sheen" to them.

I remember shiny jeans. My best friend had a pair when we were in grade 4 (about 1999). They were something like 'liquid jeans'. Blue jeans that had a liquid sheen to them.

Not quite sure shiny pants will catch on but Hilary Duff kind of had a pair on in February (2007).

I personally would never wear shiny pants or metallic jeans. It's cool if you want to. Whatever floats your boat. I also don't think they will catch on but I can be wrong.

Classic Denim Styles

2007-12-18T13:24:00.000-05:00

It seems that this spring will be flooded with all kinds of denim. Elle.com has put up a scrapbook of styles we wear today that were all the rage in other decades as well. Here are a few that they featured.

THE WIDE LEG Farrah Fawcett’s sex appeal ruled the '70s, and it didn’t hurt that she could also look every bit the tomboy. Kate Bosworth’s modern version of the wide-leg jean looks very now with a fedora and simple white tank. Wearing wide-leg jeans should be a play on volume—big on the bottom, teeny on top—to avoid looking lost in them.

Farrah Fawcett (top) and Kate Bosworth (bottom)

THE SKIINY JEAN You can thank Miss Moss for the skinny jean revival. Her signature stovepipes can make any woman look slim, especially when they're paired with an elongating heel.
Brooke Shields (top) and Brigitte Bardot (bottom)

THE DENIM DRESS The denim dress isn't just a schoolgirl staple. In fact, it can look incredibly sexy (Exhibit A: Brigitte Bardot, at left) when worn in the right context. Pair it with tights and statement-making boots for a go-anywhere casual look.

THE DENIM JACKET Nearly every bad boy in history has had a denim jacket to call their own, starting with cowboys and continuing through Madonna's '80s-punk phase. Roll up the sleeves, let your shirt hang out, and revel in your rebelliousness.
Madonna (top) and John Lennon (bottom)

Clear Converse Shoes

2007-12-13T11:29:00.000-05:00

Yes it's clear sneakers! You can now show off your oh-so-stylish socks. Ok, this is weird. No offence, but it is so weird. I'm sorry but I don't like showing off my socks or feet. I love flip flops but these are sneakers. I just don't get the point. Maybe it's because many of my socks are black and boring. I prefer sneakers that aren't plastic and see through. To each their own i suppose.

The latest from L.A.M.B and Heatherette

2007-12-11T14:56:00.000-05:00

Recently, there have been fashion weeks held in cities all over the world. I have picked 2 designers to show. L.A.M.B, and Heatherette.

http://l-a-m-b.com/ There seems to be a lot of black and white shown. The patterns on the items are very interesting.

The way the checks are on this outfit end up having the focal point right at the chest in the middle.

It’s the same with this outfit too with the almost like bulls eye effect. It also seems to be see through lace (or at least the black lace is). I’m not a big fan of either of these.

I personally love the first dress. The over-sized gingham is fun and the tulle underneath adds volume as well as girly-ness.

I don’t get this outfit. I’ve noticed those bottoms before, and they also appear in Michael Kors collection (but in lime green). I have no idea what they are and were anyone would wear them, but I guess that is runway fashion for you. Some outfits shown on runways have no place to wear them.

This last look I have chosen to show from L.A.M.B is gorgeous. It looks like it would have a lot of movement at the bottom.

http://www.heatherette.com/ The runway seems to be very playful in the background with the American flag and butterflies.

It’s a very interesting dress. It’s a great colour palate they used.

This dress is busy but not in an over the top kind of way. The colours are great but it’s very short (or the model has extremely long legs).

The dress in the first picture is very old style homemaker wife. That’s the first thing that comes to my mind is old advertisements with a perfect housewife with a perfect smile and the perfect dress. This is like the modern version.

I am slightly speechless with this outfit. Is that a one piece with pant? I just really do not like it. It seems one pieces with pants have been on the runway with other designers too like Stella McCartney.

This last one is very 4th of July. It’s a red, white and blue outfit. There are the high waist bottoms that seem to be in many lines.

I would definitely say L.A.M.B is my favourite out of the two. Heatherette does seem to be showcasing outfits that are more high fashion. Remember these are only two designers I chose to show and these are my comments on what I think.

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2007

2007-12-06T16:38:00.000-05:00

It was taped about a month ago but it is just airing now on T.V. I like to watch it because it's interesting to see how creative the designers get. There are themes and of course wings on some of the angels. Here are some pictures from the show.

Seal performed twice (the seond time with Heidi--awww) and also Will.i.am and the Spice Girls(Stop right now..thank you very much).

The Simpsons Couture

2007-12-02T13:09:00.000-05:00

From Bazzar in August 2007 were these Simpsons ads with the characters dressed in couture clothing. The one character in the brown bob hair cut is Linda Evangelista (she's a famous model). I find these ads very cool.

Lanvin, Chanel, Versace

Jean Paul Gaultier, Louis Vitton, Viktor & Rolf

Designer Purses, Why so Much?

2007-11-27T13:10:00.000-05:00

Alright, a question that I haven't found the answer to yet is 'why are designer purses so much money?' I know they use really great fabrics and have the best people/machines to put them together but why SOOO much money? I would love a Chanel bag but no way am I paying over $1000 for a purse!

Below is a Chanel bag that i love but definitely can not afford.

Luscious black lambskin leather defines the Chanel Ultimate Soft Medium Handbag. Silver hardware and quilted leather are the perfect combination for this mod bag that is nothing short of exquisite. The silver chain shoulder strap has a leather top and there are two side pockets. Contact your nearest Chanel boutique or Chanel retailer via department store to nab this beauty for $1475.

$1475?! You have to be kidding! Oh why, oh why are designer purses and clothing so much money...

Chocolate Fashion!?

2007-11-24T15:29:00.000-05:00

Chocolate and fashion. Two of my favourite things have come together. Cadbury's annual Chocolate Couture Collection Fashion Show combines Canada's best design talents with the most delectable of treats. November 20th event displayed of ten one-of-a-kind fashions created entirely with Cadbury chocolate. The catwalk show presented everything from a Marie-Antoinette inspired chocolate gown from designer Pat McDonagh to a super sweet cropped swing coat with chocolate hand beading from new-comer designer Phoebe Gao. Sunny Choi's created a chocolate leopard print ensemble, complete with a caramel poodle, and Izzy Camilleri's designed a Vegas show girl outfit. How they manage to make the outfits? I don't know, but they look great.

We Need a Change

2007-11-22T14:45:00.000-05:00

What is with the media today!? We make it so hard that everyone feels like they are never enough. There are girls starving themselves and guys trying to get abs to make girls like them..Its ridiculous! The fashion industry is coming very slowly around. I wish the fashion industry would change quicker. They think clothing looks better on skinny models but it really doesn't. Those girls have no curves. We need girls that aren't so skinny. What have we done? Why all of the sudden did we think they looked better than a real woman?

Vera Wang

2007-11-21T12:25:00.000-05:00

Vera Wang (born June 27, 1949) is an American fashion designer based in New York. She is known for her wedding gown collection, among other specialties.

As a girl, Wang trained as a figure skater, and competed at the 1968 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. When she failed to make the U.S. Olympic team, she entered the fashion industry. Wang was a senior fashion editor for Vogue for sixteen years but left in 1985 to join Ralph Lauren as a design director for two years. In 1990, she opened her own design salon in the Carlyle Hotel in New York which featured her trademark bridal gowns. She has designed costumes for figure skaters, including Nancy Kerrigan and Michelle Kwan.

Wang has expanded her brand name through her fragrance, jewelry, eye ware, shoe and house ware collections. On August 24, 2006, Kohl's announced that it would carry clothing, accessories, footwear, and linens designed by Wang.
(information from Wikipedia)

This is the reception dress that Vera Wang made for Avril Lavigne's wedding.

Fall / Winter 2007

2007-11-16T15:14:00.000-05:00

It's now well into fall so I have decided to talk about what trends we are seeing.

~Dresses are still around (scroll down to see how they are worn this fall)
~denim jeans are MASSIVE (different cuts, colours and styles)
~There seems to be a lot of quilted shoes
~Ugg-like boots are back and many are quilted as well as in colours
~Flats are still huge
~With jackets there are different styles like petticoats, trenches, and bomber jackets
~The colour purple is suppose to be a hit
~To balance out dull colours like grey punches of bright and rich colours will be incorporated with outfits

Dresses
Dresses can be worn on their own, with tights or with leggings. There are also many different styles of dresses. Some even come with pockets.

Jackets
Bomber jacket are back in a fresh way, trench coat and petticoat are still going strong.

I personally love all of these (how adorable is the plaid bomber jacket) but I'm a puffy coat kind of girl.

Denim (pants)
There is a wide variety of cuts this time in denim. Skinny jeans are still in, but so are wide legged jeans. There are so many styles and colours available.

Shoes
The UGG like boots are back in. (for me they never went away) Some are the classics but others are new styles - like the quilted ones. Ballet flats are still huge, but obviously we can't wear them when it's freezing and snowy out.

The Foundation of Leggings

2007-11-11T16:04:00.000-05:00

We’ve seen leggings worn as pants in the 80’s but this time around it’s a lot cuter. I personally don’t own legging and probably won’t wear them but in many cases I find them cool.

Leggings in the form of skin-tight pants made its way into fashion in the 1960s and were worn with a large belt and slip-on high heels or ballet flat-styled shoes. Of course the 80’s and early 90’s had leggings as pants or even under something like shorts (see Beverly Hills 90210’s first episodes). In 2005 leggings began to make a "comeback" into the world of high fashion by pairing capri-length leggings with mini skirts with this resurgence continuing into 2006. They are also now popular to wear with oversized, long sweaters. Also, tight leggings began to merge its style with denim, spawning the high fashion design called the "skinny jeans".

Leggings can be worn different ways:

1. Shirt, mini and leggings
2. Tunic and leggings
3. Leggings under dress
4. Extra long sweater and leggings
5. Dress and leggings

Now if you’re small like me, be careful because some ways can make you look very short. It’s due to the outfit being broken up with a long shirt, a mini and then capri length leggings that makes your body look shorter then it actually is.

We’ve all seen leggings in solid colours but they can be striped, plaid, animal print and even with graphics like skulls. There are so many to choose from and only seven days of the week to wear them.

Celebrities and runways have been showing leggings since early 2005. Right now they seem to be huge everywhere with regular teens. Is this fad going to last? I give it at most two more years but that’s just my opinion.

Crazy Laws

2007-11-09T14:42:00.000-05:00

Well obviously it's not fashion but whatever...

In Massachusetts, it is illegal to go to bed without first having a bath. (However, another law prohibits bathing on Sunday)

In Switzerland, it is illegal for a man to relieve himself while standing up after 10pm.

In Louisiana, biting someone with your natural teeth is considered "simple assault," but biting someone with your dentures is "aggravated assault."

In France, it is against the law to sell an "E.T" doll. They have a law forbidding the sale of dolls that do not have human faces.

In Devon, Texas, it is against the law to make furniture while you are nude. - well that's no fun

In Salt Lake County, Utah, it's illegal to walk down the street carrying a violin in a paper bag. Umm, what about a plastic bag?

In Florida men seen publicly in any kind of strapless gown can be fined. - this one has to do with fashion

In Pennsylvania, it's against the law to tie a dollar bill on a string on the ground and pull it away when someone tries to pick it up.

Denim What?!

2007-11-08T15:49:00.000-05:00

Denim is forever. The newly launched Di-Amanda collection by Toronto-based jewelry brand D&D Creations has denim in the pendants. How odd right? Above are pictures. Everything else is made of sterling silver and around the denim is diamonds. I must say this is very inventive. I honestly don't know if it will catch on... it looks rather cool.

Converse Shoes

2007-11-03T15:20:00.001-04:00

Here's a breif history of how they came to be:
Converse is an American shoe company (now owned by Nike) which has been making shoes since 1908.
Chuck Taylor All-Stars are obviously made by Converse. They were introduced in 1917 as the "All-Star". Converse was trying to produce a shoe that the basketball teams would use. They didn’t hit it big until basketball player Chuck Taylor started wearing them all the time. He loved the All-Star shoes. Chuck gave some tips to the company about altering the shoe a little, and soon the name Chuck Taylor All Stars came about. After that the shoes were expended to other types of fabric (denim, suede for example), and many different colours.

This is who they were popular with through out the years (other than in basketball):
In the 1950s the shoes became popular with ‘greasers’ (Side note: I love the Outsiders book). Since the late 1970’s, fans of punk rock have worn them, as well as followers of the grunge culture in the 90’s. Chuck Taylor All-Stars are pretty much a cult classic these days.

Back to the 70's

2007-10-30T13:53:00.000-04:00

1970's

In the early 70’s the Victorian style made an appearance with items such as long skirts, blouses with frills and laced boots.

Designers were also borrowing other country and cultures’ styles of fashion. They would be interpreted them in their own way. Long, loose garments inspired by India, the far East (such as China) and Southern America were first adopted by hippies. Later on the fashions and the jewelleries became mainstreamed.

The 70’s is where punk, almost goth, started. Their hair was spiked and dyed. Body piercing became common with teens just like it still is now (they would use safety pins to make the holes.-Please DON’T do this!) Black tattered clothed were decorated with metal studs and chains.

Disco fashion was also huge. Colour coordinated outfits, heels for men, and strappy heels for women were huge in the Disco glam movement.
Out of these styles, the Disco glam did not last. In my opinion I am thankful!

Some more styles from the 70’s:

60's Back in Time…Fashion Style

2007-10-26T14:50:00.000-04:00

Many of us weren’t born in the 1960’s so we don’t know too much about the fashion. Welcome to Fashion History class. The styles may be very weird to you now but it was normal back then. Imagine what teenagers 40 years from now will think about the clothes we wear.

1960's

The 60’s had lots of colourful pieces that expressed what the public wanted; outfits that weren’t drab. They wanted fun. Just like now, the celebrities of that time were gratefully influencing what everyone else wore.

The miniskirt was introduced in the 60’s. Girls were starting to show a lot of skin.

Remember bell bottoms that were reintroduced in the mid to late 90’s? Well, the 60’s is where it all started. Originally bell bottoms started out as NAVY issued denim pants for sailors. They became so popular that the manufacturers began making them.

The bikini made its debut in the late 1960’s which caused uproar or social issues.

Stiletto heels were an essential in women’s wardrobes.

The 60’s is also when Twiggy (world wide known super model) came out and made the thin look ‘in’. More and more teenagers started to have eating disorders and because of this clothes were altered to fit the girls who were slim.

Some more fashions of the 60’s:

This reminds me of the wicked witch that was killed in the Wizard of Oz. You know the one who was squashed by a house.

Aren’t these weird? Those beige parts would stick to the bottom of your feet and that’s how they out stay on

Avatars - Fashion

2007-10-20T11:52:00.000-04:00

Coco Chanel Quotes

2007-10-18T15:35:00.000-04:00

I personally love the brand Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel created. She came from nothing, just an orphan and rose up to be this legend. Who doesn't know the Chanel brand? Best known for the quilted handbags I love to drool over. Too bad I cannot afford them. Anyways here are great quotes from her:

“Fashion fades, only style remains the same.”

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.”

"In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”

"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.”

"As long as you know men are like children, you know everything!"

"Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

"Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions.”

"Since everything is in our heads, we had better not lose them.”

How to get the right fitting bra!

2007-10-18T15:02:00.000-04:00

What Bra Size Are You?
Here is how to measure to get the best fit

Though many countries use the metric system (cm) to measure things typically measured in the customary system (in), the majority of these nations still use inches to determine the under-band size of the bra itself.

There are several methods which may be used to provide an approximate size by taking measurements. However, bra sizing systems differ widely between countries, between manufacturers, and between brands and designs, which can create many problems >Also: NEVER assume your swim wear size based on your lingerie sizing.

Step 1: Band Size –(example: 32, 34, 36, 38) Wrap your measuring tape snugly around your rib cage. The measurement needs to be taken from directly under the bust. If the measurement is an even number, add 4 inches or if it is an odd number, add 5 inches. Example: if your rib cage measured at 30`` + 4 = 34 band size

Step 2: Cup Size – (example: A, B, C and so on) Measure loosely around the fullest part of you bust. Then subtract the cup size from the band size. Example: if your bust measurement is 36``, you wear a B cup.

See Size Chart:

Difference - Cup Size Is

0 - AA

1 - A

2 - B

3 - C

4 - D

5 - DD

and so on…

I tried my best to find ones that would relate to everyone around the world. Here is link to a site that might help if the above directions do not: http://www.frenchknickers.com/measure.aspm European sizes (English, French and Italian)

Or you can always go to a search engine and look up how to measure your bra size. >One of the resources I used for bra information was Wikipedia

If you are a non-believer in bras I am sorry if I offended you in any way!