Sequins, Boots and Morsal

In the last three years, I've never seen this girl dressed-down. She's always on the top of her game-no fashion faux pas here. Last week we were at a restaurant and I loved her look. It made me think of variations of her stylish outfit. When going out, keep in mind that context is key, please be cognizant of where you're going and what you'll be doing before you get dressed. A huge part of fashion is function. Don't be like the girls in those Reitmans commercials -whack! With that, I find that sometimes people overdress, or accessorize too much and it really confuses their outfits, making them look too busy and all over the place. In contrast, I think Morsal did an amazing job dressing for the occasion, keeping in mind that people can't dress like it's a club opening everyday. Under different circumstances and perhaps a venue change, she would look amazing in Gucci's 'Division' high heel over-the-knee platform boot paired with a sequined mini dress or a loose fitting top - the pants would be up to her (I trust her judgment).

-Pri

Joe Fresh!

Most high profile fashion lines are not always sold at grocery stores, but such is the case with Joe Fresh. Mr. Mimran’s highly attractive and highly affordable spring line was more than what we expected from this Canadian label. The show began with a bang as Keith Richards youngest daughter Theodora came storming down the runway , followed by Canadian supermodel Taryn Davidson. Immediately we noticed a Dutch farm girl vibe, from the blue checker patterns to the clogs. The neutrals mixed with delicious shades of pinks, yellows and blues to accommodate the significant amount of white used in the clothing. Some of our favourite pieces included a chiffon pleated skirt (in each colour of course), a women’s ¾ length rosette coat and a white men’s cardigan.





We had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Mimran after the show to congratulate him and hear what we had to say about his show.





FAY: “First off, we would like to congratulate you on the show; we absolutely loved the entire collection! Could you please tell us a bit of the background of the collection and what inspired you?”





Mr. Mimran: “Thank you! Well, nudes were very important-legs were really important. It was about this whole innerwear/outwear thing. It started with a shear blouse, which immediately set it off. Then it became a matter of what to wear with it-what shoes. Well, if you put them in high heels they tend to look a bit sireny. We chose clogs because it drills the look down a bit and can make it look a certain way, which can look a bit farm girl. But, when the girls wear them with their long legs it can look very sexy and very chic-something that represents the Joe Fresh brand. And then the rosette thing, I love rosette’s-I did something with them last season. I really wanted to experiment with it, but hopefully it came across with a certain vibe."





FAY: “What was your favourite piece of the collection?”





Mr.Mimran: “God! That’s tough! I would probably say the rosette coat; it was definitely one of my favourites!”





FAY: “Can you tell us what it is like to be a Canadian label within Canada? And what is it like competing with other international labels?”





Mr. Mimran: “I think that it’s difficult because you have brands around the world that have huge leverage, and huge quantities. They come in this marketplace and they get instant recognition from the consumer. I think that we have to work even harder to try and get our piece of the pie. But i’ve always been a big supporter of Canadian talent and saying that we can make it happen from here, and we know we can make it happen from here. You know we’ve got to preserve it, the minute the international guys come in you don’t need our designers, and you don’t need our creative marketing people-who cares, right? I think it’s really important that we continue to make it happen!”





FAY: “And lastly, would you be able to give any advice to members of our fashion association?”





Mr. “Mimran: Well I think you have to be passionate about what you do and don’t give up - and believe in your dream, be realistic and have a real business mind.”





FAY: “Thank you very much, we loved the collection and enjoyed the show”





Mr. Mimran: “My pleasure, thank you!”

For more pictures, see: http://www.fashionmagazine.com/blogs/fashion/at-the-shows/2009/10/22/toronto-joe-fresh-style-spring-2010/

Jimmy Choo for H&M

Ladies and gents alike mark your callenders for November 14th and take the subway down to King. Jimmy Choo's for H&M for Ladies and Men will launch early November at the Eaton Centre. Arrive early as I'm sure the line up will be out the door, as it should be - this line is very fashionable and quite affordable: http://www.hm.com/ca/#/jc_preview/

I personally like the idea of big timers in fashion teaming up with stores like H&M. Though some feel as the 'elite' feeling of owning a coveted Jimmy Choo shoe is diminished when launched in department stores, in a way, the line are still exclusive. Rather than all H&M locations carrying the Choo line, it is only the Bloor location (and thats only while quantites last)!

Let us know if you are going to the launch and what goodies are there!

- Vanessa

The Holy Week...

Reading week is over. I for one am swamped in assignments. The winer bitterness is definately approaching. But today I woke up with a smile on my face.

This could only mean one thing...

TORONTO FASHION WEEK

Quite possibly delivering joy beyond having your birthday, Christmas and winning the lottery all in the same day for an entire six days.

Today's itenerary is as follows...

MONDAY By Invitation Only
OCTOBER 19, 2009
4:00 PM
VAWK by Sunny FongArt Gallery of Ontario
5:30 PM
Holt Renfrew Media Cocktail 50 Bloor St. West

OPENING NIGHT WEAR LOVE ALIVE 1030 King Street West
8:30 PM
Cinematic Style: LG Product Launch Fashion Environment
9:00 PM
ON THE RUNWAY..... 100 years of Beauty by L'Oréal Paris FDCC Designer Development Fund Announcement Stratford Shakespeare Festival "Wear Love Alive"

Nathon Phillips Square will be busy all week with fashion shows and after parties so try to RSVP and experience Fashion Week.

Expect frequent blogging this week as many of the FAY members will be attending the event.

Street Style: Kris Van Assche Kicks

There are so many times that I wish I had my camera on the way to lecture or coming back from Scott. I always see such well put together people who you can tell, just love fashion- it makes me so happy lol. I was walking through Vari Hall last week when I ran into Alvin. Luckily I had my camera- and a patient friend who could do without her coffee for 2 minutes as I spoke to Alvin.
Alvin's jeans are APC, his high tops are by Kris Van Assche, he's wearing a jacket from Bauhaus, an American Apparel scarf and a plaid shirt from H&M.
Alvin's inspiration for this outfit came right off of Kris Van Assche's runway (FW10). A staple in Alvin's closet would have to be his white canvas shoes- they go with everything. He believes an essential part of every outfit is how you carry yourself, confidence is key and the right accessories are crucial.

I've been seeing a lot of plaid and bomber leather jacket combo's recently- It's a wicked look, however I think you guys have to keep it new and exciting with your own personal style. Alvin's got the raw straight-leg APC's gathering at the knees and by the ankle- perfect for showcasing those amazing contrasting high top shoes which in my opinion, totally make this outfit!


-Pri

Street Style: Boyfriend Blazer

I walked past Sarah and did a double take- Suzy Shier boyfriend blazer, Bebe Harem pants, Gucci frames and a patent leather Michael Kors handbag- I need your picture!
She's a perfect example of balance; sophisticated yet comfortable, sensible yet stylish, high-end and affordable. I love the mix of labels, styles and just the overall look. Sarah's advice was to never overdo it- balance is key. Wise words.

-Pri

Street Style: Erica

I ran into Erica who was also at York Fest. She's wearing a black silk skirt and brown wrinkled leather boots (Urban Planet), a white cardigan (Sirens), a plain white t-shirt (Wal-Mart), her cross-body leather bag and scarf that she's beautifully incorporated into her outfit are both from Value Village. Erica stood out to me, possibly because as simple as her outfit was, I knew she had an eye for detail. I also really liked the proportions she used; a high-waisted skirt with a loose-fitting t-shit and a long cardigan over. Erica is a prime example of how you don't have to spend a lot of money on brand name clothing, labels and luxury goods- and still look like you did.

-Pri

Street Style: Jorge

I caught up with Jorge during York Fest at the Fashion Association at York (FAY) table.
He's wearing a cable knit sweater (Ralph Lauren) paired with simple above-the-knee shorts (H&M) and chocolate brown leather deck shoes.
The simplicity of his outfit was what struck me most about him, with the unpredictable weather we've been having lately, it's definitely a good idea to mix up bulky sweaters with lighter shorts.

Priyan's Q&A with Jorge (herein P & J)

P: What stores do you frequently buy from?
J: Topshop, Uniqlo, J.Crew and Zara.
P: What was your inspiration for this outfit?
J: GQ Magazine's pictures and articles.
P: What is your staple piece of clothing, something that you can't live without?
J: Comfortable boxers.
P: In your opinion, what makes an outfit?
J: It's all about attitude and confidence.


-Pri

Trend Alert

Just wanted to quickly blog about two of my FAVOURITE trends for this season because they could not get any better. I am a huge fan of big, statement pieces that define an outfit and these two are clearly up there.

The Chunky Necklace - done in everything from thin metalics to pearls, this season remember to layer, layer, layer! Most neck jelwery is coming in multiple layers sold as one so the oh-so-kind stores are doing most of the work, its just up to you to incorperate it into your wardrobe. I think the best way to wear a chunky necklace is to go simple with the top, like a silk cami and throw a blazer over it. Here are three of my favs...

Over The Top Boot - Literally. This season, boots are going over the knee. With so many boots in stores this season, make sure the boot is right for your height and doesnt go too far up the leg which will shorten your whole torso. Wear these boots with a pair of tights or cigarette pants and avoid short skirts for a very chic look this season

Thanks to everyone who made an effort to drop by our Fashion Association table at Yorkfest. Be sure to sign up with the FAY for club events, e-mails and latest! Check out the offical FAY website at www.yorku.ca/fashion

The Fashion Icon

Genius. Insanity. In life there seems to be a small divide between the two. There is not much seperating ideas that seem impossible and a miracle and so of course is the same in the world of fashion. To me, being a fashion icon means your individual style embodies your entire being while being imitated but never duplicated, the pieces you own are always envied but often untraceable and your image is pure poise. Lady GaGa is one of the style icons of our time where we have seen her rock no pants, head scarves and even landed a beautiful spread in V magazine.

But it is not without downfall that Lady GaGa has been photographed. She sure does like to push the envelope, but how far is to far? For me, this is just WAY too far. GaGa is wearing Jean-Charles Castlebajac's Kermit the Frog outfit - hes known for his animated, wild and questionable designs and this definately hits all three. Sadly, it does seem animals were harmed in the making of this garnment.

Of course Lady GaGa was not shy to wear the overthe top outfit but it makes me question "is this just too crazy?". As a style icon I think this was a wrong choice, and the title of a style icon should mean 24/7. Though I understand celebrities and fashionistas alike want their downtime and need some rest and relaxation and may want to step into a pair of joggers, I think a style icon has to do it in a way that is still fashionable. Lady GaGa may have an outfit like this to get attention - but get our attention in a GOOD way because any attention this would have gotten could not have been that great.

Though Lady GaGa's outfits are questionable and her title as a style icon has raised some eyebrows, its safe to say that todays "fashion icon" is leaps and bounds different from the traditional icons such as Kate Moss, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly.

Must Haves!

While the summer weather most of us York students hasn’t been too hot, we know we can always count on fashion to deliver some drool worthy pieces when all else fails. Since the outdoors haven’t been delivering tan-worthy weather, this summer I’ve made the shopping world my Summer getaway and picked up on the trends that should be in everyone’s closet this season. Between Queen Street West and Younge Street I found my favorite pieces from Forever 21, Aldo’s and Urban Outfitters.

In the Nude…
It is very clear that one color that is in for the season is almost no color at all: nude! Any color close to a woman’s natural skin tone including flesh, sand, and caramel will compliment any outfit’s color pallet and elongate your leg. When your carry your natural skin color into a similar hue on the shoe the visual line is therefore much longer and flattering. For the end of summer try the Slagel sandal from Aldo’s on sale now for only $31.98, Jolly sandal for $55.98 or the Segura platform pump for $100.
Tailored to a Tee
To toughen up any soft playful look and add a pop of flare, this season’s must haves is a blazer. We saw it first with the oversized boyfriend blazer but as there have been plenty of different varieties; you will surely be able to pick out your perfect signature jacket. Try the cap sleeve blazer with belt from Forever 21 for $22.88, Silence & Noise White Double Breasted Blazer from Urban Outfitters for $88.00 or Silence & Noise Floral TT Blazer as a statement jacket for $78.00 from Urban Outfitters. The great thing about these blazers is that they can be worn with skinny jeans, tulip skirts, tube dresses – anything in your closet!
Flower Power
This season make sure you have flowery accessories in the form of earrings, necklaces, rings or broaches. These girly pieces will add a feminine touch to your outfit and give you a fresh look. Forever 21 has a huge line of accessories that will surely bring your outfits to life. When picking accessories with floral print, skip the bangles with silkscreen printed or painted flowers and pick a ring or necklace with metal detail that outlines the actual flower and gives a 3D effect –this will give your outfit texture. For those who adore vintage, many of the flower accessories from Forever 21 had the antique feel. Try Forever 21’s floral cluster necklaces if you are wearing a strapless dress or top that is very large and encrusted with jewels that act as an entire neckline. Try one of the rings, bracelets, earrings or necklaces like the ones pictured below from Forever 21, all for under $16.98.
Nude shoes, blazers and flower accessories can all come together this season to create a statement outfit that will surely be turning heads wherever you go. Remember, to feel like a million bucks you don’t have to spend it – just shop smart! As a student whose love of fashion is of more value than her bank account, shopping at places like Aldo’s, Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters is a happy compromise. Happy shopping!

WHY I LOVE SUMMER

With the warmer weather, and us Yorkies almost being done school (FINALLY), summer is just around the corner. This means free time, BBQs, frozen drinks, pools, flowers, beaches and so much more good stuff. Of course summer also means a change from our outfits that try to keep us warm to an effortless wardrobe. I mean how easy is it to slip on some shorts and a tank?

My favourite fashions of summer include:


AVIATOR SUNGLASSES- these fun sunglasses add a touch of cool to any outfit. Grab them while you are walking out the door on a sunny day to protect your eyes and add a touch of fun to your outfit. I picked up a great pair for 6 bucks at Forever 21.


FLIP FLOPS- say goodbye to running shoes and boots for the season. It’s time to slip on these comfy shoes. Flip flops are my favourite because they come in any colour imaginable, with any pattern or print, and of course they are super cheap so you can buy a pair for every outfit.


SUMMER DRESSES- I am loving dresses right now, so I love when summer comes around because I don’t need any special occasion to wear a dress. A pretty floral dress can take you from the beach to the club with minimal outfit changes! They are also so flowy and comfortable.


BATHING SUITS- I know a lot of people get intimidated by bathing suits, but I love them.
There is something about their cool patterns and bright colours that have me addicted to buying them. I usually buy at least one bathing suit every summer, so my collection is pretty big right now and my bathing suit can change depending on the occasion. Last year I splurged on a metallic gold one and I love it, I wear it all the time; it was definitely worth the money.


DENIM SHORTS AND SKIRTS- these two bottoms might just be my favourite pieces of summer, but it’s hard to say. There is something about denim shorts and skirts that scream summer to me. They go with any possible shirt you want to wear and are great to wear over bathing suits too. I know I will certainly be adding a few more of each to my closet this summer.


BEACH BAGS- these huge bags can hold anything. Most of them are made from durable materials so you can pack way more than what you would actually need for a day on the beach. I love that you can match them to your bathing suit or outfit too, playing with colours and patterns is some of the fun of summer.


Those are some of my favourite summer fashions, what are some of yours? Remember summer is the time when you are free, adventurous and wild, so apply this to your clothing as well. Don’t be afraid to take chances when it comes to colours, cuts or styles. If you think you can pull it off then you can! It’s pretty hard to have a fashion faux pas in the summer; however I’m telling you now leave the socks and sandals at home.

10 ITEMS THAT SHOULD BE IN ANY GIRL'S CLOSET

We all know that there are staples of any wardrobe. Some are specific to the individual while others would look great in any closet. Something they all have in common is that they are always comfortable, fashionable, timeless and can complete an outfit. Here’s a list of some great pieces of any wardrobe (or dresser—for those accessories).

PLAIN TANK- a solid ribbed tank is the perfect thing to wear when you happen to be in a rush or want a laidback look. They are also great to wear under sheer shirts, or if you want some added length for your shirt. Get a bunch of colours and layer them!

SUNGLASSES- find a great pair of sunglasses that you can’t leave home without, and splurge if you have to. Sunglasses are an instant touch of glamour and can really add something to your outfit. Depending on the pair you choose your outfit can look glam, rock, retro or preppy.

LITTLE BLACK DRESS- it’s cliché, but that’s because it works. It is important to have this piece in your wardrobe because you can wear it to any event. The neutral colour allows you to change your outfit completely with different shoes and jewelry.

QUALITY JEANS- jeans are what most of us are wearing on a day-to-day basis. They take us from day to night, casual to a little dressy so it is so essential to have a great pair of jeans. A darker wash can help you turn your outfit to nightwear. Go to the fitting rooms and try some on, ask for help, do research until you have found the perfect pair. This is the place to splurge because feeling great equals looking great.

FLATS, PUMPS, BOOTS- these three are placed together because they all fit the shoe category and you probably have them all in the same place in your closet. The key rule for all of these is that they fit and are comfortable. If you are on your feet all day let your shoes do some of the work. Flats are great for both a casual and elegant look when the right ones are paired with the right outfit. For the heels try something different, go with a classic toe, not so pointed but not too round. Finally the boot, it’s up to you whether it has a heel or not but black or brown leather makes for a stylish pair.

SIGNATURE PIECE OF JEWELRY- by this I don’t just mean a string of pearls (however they certainly work) but instead something that is all your own and that makes a splash. This might end up being a piece of costume jewelry and there is nothing wrong with that, in fact some of the best pieces of jewelry are costume.

HEADBAND OR HAIR PIECE- it’s important to have a hair accessory that you can just slip in when having a bad hair day. The right hair accessory can fix a bad hair day. I’m really liking peacock feather headbands right now—pick one up or try making your own!

POLO- again a polo is one of those pieces that can carry you over from different events just with a change in accessory. There important to your wardrobe because they can be worn with just about anything and create totally different looks. Experiment by layering with other shirts of different colours, and if you have to layer your polos, please no more than two!

Fashionese, The language of the Fashionista

Fashion seems to come with its own set of rules and policies, if you will, but it also comes with its own language. There are many words that we use strictly in the context of fashion and there seems to be more of these words being used everyday. The following is a list and definitions of some words commonly used in relation to fashion.

A la mode- fashionable look, in style
Anti fashion- nonconformist, anti establishment look, going against current trends
Avant garde- the characteristic quality of pioneering a look in any particular period
Blasé- boring, dull
Chic- stylish
Demi mode- boyish look
Demure- calm or reserved in manner and look
Faux pas- a fashion mistake
Haute couture- high fashion
Item du jour- item of the day, something that is “now”
Made to measure- made to fit exactly
Modernism- modern, a look reflecting the times
Passé- a look that is past its prime
Piece de resistance- the most important piece of an outfit
Preta-porter- ready to wear
Recessionista- a girl who dresses well on a budget
Risqué- a risky or daring look
Swagger- to walk self-importantly
Trendy- fashionable, follows trends
Vogue- prominent place in popular fashion

Check out this site for more definitions than you could ever imagine
http://www.geocities.com/bill_brettschneider/

These sites are great for a glossary of clothing types
http://www.dressking.com/search/glossary.htmhttp://mallyonline.com/glossaryofterms.aspxhttp://resources.alibaba.com/topic/28252/A_to_Z_of_Fashion_Terms.htmhttp://www.snapfashun.com/stylopedia/http://www.karurexports.org/index.php?option=com_glossary&func=display&Itemid=38&catid=18

By: Michelle Buziak

Words From the Wise

“Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.” Oscar Wilde

“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.” Coco Chanel

“Fashion is what you adopt when you don’t know who you are” Quentin Crisp “Fashion is all about eventually becoming naked” Anonymous

“Please do not have a fit in the fitting room. Your fashion life begins there” Florence Eiseman “Fashion is architecture; it’s a matter of proportions” Coco Chanel

“Fashion is so close in revealing a person's inner feelings and everybody seems to hate to lay claim to vanity so people tend to push it away. It's really too close to the quick of the soul.” Stella Blum

“The only rule is don’t be boring and dress cute wherever you go. Life is to short to blend in” Paris Hilton

“I don’t do fashion, I am fashion” Coco Chanel

“While clothes may not make the woman, they certainly have a strong effect on her self-confidence — which, I believe, does make the woman." Mary Kay Ashe

“The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.” Hubert de Givenchy

“Today, fashion is really about sensuality-how a woman feels on the inside. In the '80s women used suits with exaggerated shoulders and waists to make a strong impression. Women are now more comfortable with themselves and their bodies-they no longer feel the need to hide behind their clothes.” Donna Karan

“About half my designs are controlled fantasy, 15 percent are total madness and the rest are bread-and-butter designs.” Manolo Blahnik

“When in doubt, wear red.” Bill Blass

“Now is the most exciting time in fashion. Women are controlling their destiny now, the consumer is more knowledgeable, and I have to be better every single day.” Oscar de la Renta

“Fashion is very important. It is life enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well.” Vivienne Westwood

By: Michelle Buziak

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BARBIE!

Happy Birthday to Barbie!

The classic plastic toy that so many girls grow up with turns 50. That’s right Mattel’s Barbie has been around since 1959. She is a chameleon taking on any job, or even any outfit that she wants (most of us can only wish for the closet she owns).
Barbie is certainly a style icon and in celebration of her 50th birthday 50 designers created one of a kind looks for a runway presentation held during New York fashion week. A sequined body suit, a pink and gold prom dress and of course the original Barbie outfit all grazed the runway in designs inspired by her ever growing closet and created by some of today’s best in fashion.
She has been through five decades meaning she has seen her share of styles, and certainly has the wardrobe to match it. Barbie has participated and rocked outfits from the hippie style of the 60s, the disco fashion of the 70s, the neon trend of the 80s, the grungy style of the 90s and uses all of that fashion experience to keep her style evolving into the 2000s.
Barbie has been styled by the best including Dior, Versace, Armani and Givenchy, something any girl could only hope for!

For more pictures check out:

http://www.courant.com/features/la-ig-barbie-0308-pg,0,5400303.photogallery

http://www.latimes.com/features/lifestyle/la-ig-nyfw-barbie-pg,0,5260511.photogallery?index=1

By: Michelle Buziak

Red Carpet Fashions of February 09 Best Worst

WORST
M.I.A- (Grammy’s) Appearing at the Grammy’s on her due date was a bold choice; another bold choice was her outfit. M.I.A is known for her quirky style that pushes the boundaries, but this one was just a little too strange.

Estelle- (Grammy’s) Estelle looks like she belongs in the Jetson family with this space aged outfit. The dress makes her shoulders look too broad and the matching shoes are no help. She’ll have trouble finding an “American Boy” let alone any boy in this outfit.

Blake Lewis- (Grammy’s)(American Idol Runner Up) This outfit has way to much going on in way too many shades of grey. The colour makes for a boring outfit. A good way to add a punch to this outfit would have been a grey suit, and colourful accessories.

Heidi Klum- (Right) (Oscar’s) Normally always the one to wear a knock out dress this time was different. The supermodel’s outfit was too matchy matchy, the red dress, shoes and clutch were boring. The dress also didn’t have much shape and looked like it was just thrown on her.

Red Carpet Fashions of February 09 Best Dressed

February brings more snow, cold air, and of course award season. This means plenty of amazing outfits but some that are not so amazing. Here is a list of some of the best and worst looks from the Grammy's and the Academy Awards.

BEST

Duffy- (Grammy’s) a little black dress, with a few extra touches. The sheer overlay and jeweled neckline took this dress from simple to stunning, and lands Duffy on the best dressed list. Dress by Alberta Ferretti.

The Jonas Brothers- (Grammy’s) always known for good style the trio did not disappoint. The brothers looked in style but remained tasteful in classic black suits.

Whitney Houston- (Grammy’s) looking better than she has in a long time, she definitely needs to be acknowledged for her great outfit. The colours looked amazing on her, and she’s tastefully showing a bit of leg!

Anne Hathaway- (Oscar’s) Anne truly shined in her sequined dress. The light colour complimented her fair skin and the diagonal pattern on the skirt accented her curves

Alicia Keys- (Oscar’s) she looked stunning. In an Armani dress that hugged all the right places. The lilac colour was phenomenal and the slit in the leg and strapless top allowed Alicia to show off some skin.

Mark Jacobs Interview on Steven Sprouse!

Fabulous Coulours, and Designs! Street wear meets high fashion! Check it out! Love it!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSravknSO3M





Cristina La

CK "We are One" Spring/Summer 09 Campaign

Check out the new CK Spring/Summer 09 Campaing! The new limited edition CK, unisex fragrance, One bottle with MP3 speaker was introduced on January 20th! An all-over body spray was also launched (a lighter version of the fragrance). It's an interesting twist for a fragrance that has been historically in touch with younger consumers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7I_CyeNhUUU

Cristina La

Fashion vs. Style

Fashion and style are words that go together, they are often used interchangeably without even thinking about it but there is a big difference between fashion and style. There are so many different ways that each of these words can be explained, and each person has there own definition of each but for the most part these definitions are quite similar. Simply put fashion is about the clothes, and style is about the person wearing them.

Fashion is…About cycles. The clothes will change every season, and with it fashion changes. In fashion nothing stays the same and often times they changes can be drastic. Fashion is influenced by designers and large companies, they try to set trends to for us to follow all in the hopes of making a profit. It is mass produced often times not unique and just another copy of many of the clothes already on the market. Fashion is influenced by celebrities and designers, it is predetermined for us.

Style is…Timeless. It is how you wear the clothes. Style does change however for the most part it matures and evolves, it is not often drastic changes but small changes over a period of time. It is influenced by a variety of things such as age, gender, culture and subculture, interests and location just to name a few. Style is about being fearless, experimenting and taking chances. It is about creating your own look, and influencing other people with it. It is as unique and individual as the wearer. Style is chosen for you by you, you as the wearer determine your style.

“Fashion fades, style is eternal” Yves Saint Laurent
“Style is an expression of individualism mixed with charisma. Fashion is something that comes after style.” John Fairchild
“The difference between fashion and style is quality” Giorgio Armani

In the end however both these words are interchangeable because they work together, they need eachother. There cannot be fashion without style, and there cannot be style without fashion. So remember that it is okay to follow trends, and dress like celebrities, but don’t let them be the only influence to what you wear, follow your heart and choose outfits you love and that make you feel confident!


Michelle Buziak

Get your nails done the Barbie way!

This is a product that is very useful for girls of all ages! It is easy to use, and multiple designs can be printed on to your nails, it is amazing! Check out the demonstration!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT-pmNm3NEY&feature=related

Cristina La

Sizzling Trends!

We’re a month into the New Year and now is the perfect time to review the top styles of the year past, and the predictions for what will be the top trends this year. We are going to take a look at the styles we didn’t stop seeing in 2008 and the ones that look like they’ll be popping up everywhere in 2009.

2008 was the time to be confident. Daring prints and styles were seen everywhere this year and confidence was certainly needed to pull off some of the greatest styles of the year.

Animal print was everywhere in 2008, including zebra, giraffe and especially leopard. This is a great pattern because its fun but it can also be dressed up very sophisticated. This look was available in every colour on every garment. Animal print shows confidence, and confidence sure seemed to be everywhere.

Metallics, yet again another confidence piece. Gold, bronze and silver were catching eyes everywhere this year. These colours can make an outfit. They were usually seen on accessories like shoes and bags but not limited to them; some statement pieces like metallic leggings were also certainly in during 08.

Statement Tees. Messages about voting, peace and environmentalism were seen plastered across tons of T-shirts this year. Not only were people making a statement through Tees but the messages were often seen on buttons and bags. The great thing about fashion is that it is an excellent way to display what you believe in.

Scarves. Light, airy scarves were gracing the necks of many in 2008. These accessories came in any colour, any print, any pattern, which makes it easy to understand why so many people were seen sporting them. They made a great trend for the spring time because many of the scarves came in pastel colours perfect for the season.

Sequins were seen on everything this year. For the most part sequins were another trend that displayed confidence. Wearing an outfit that had some sequins on it made sure that the wearer stood out. Sequins were available in all colours and looked great on small accessories or even larger pieces like dresses as long as the rest of the outfit was simple!

Other Great Styles of 08: coloured jeans, tights and leggings, high waisted skirts and jeans, pencil skirts, oxford shoes.

The styles of 2009 seem to be less daring and more feminine. The styles we are seeing will still make the wearer feel confident, but they give off a more flirty and romantic look as opposed to the wild and risky we saw in 08.

Printed Hosiery. Tights and leggings were the look in 2008 and will continue to be in the New Year however they are going to have a different look to them. A trend of 08 will be revamped this year with subtle prints, like florals, which brings us to our next upcoming look.

Florals. These are the essence of girly and romantic. However floral prints will not be as bold this year, but they will be delicate, even watermarked. If you want a bold look with floral try an accessory such as a hairclip or a necklace.

Peacock Feathers are going to be seen on a lot of accessories this year. They looks great on hair accessories and can quickly spark up an outfit creating quite the conversation piece. Not only will peacock be seen on accessories but the beautiful colours will be seen on plenty of garments.

Checks. Plaid and gingham, it’s the one not so girly trend on this list but that certainly doesn’t make it any less trendy this year. It’s the alternative to the flirty look; pairing it with different accessories can create many different looks. Pair a check dress with rocker boots and you have a rocker style. Choose to match a plaid button down shirt (leaving a few top buttons undone) and a waist belt can create a more feminine look in this hard print.

Ruffles are another feminine trend. They are going to be everywhere this year, from a slight peek on hems to full out on collar lines. This is a look that plays up the area it is located. Make sure that when wearing ruffles the rest of the look is simple and elegant.

Other Fine Trends of 09: butterfly, lace, jewel encrusted, single-shoulder pieces, neon

Michelle B.