Super Into This

"With a motorbike made of jealously"

2011-12-15T11:51:00.000-08:00

That happens to be one of my favourite come-backs of all time. It doesn't work out of context, but that isn't really important. What is important is the author of that quote is Noel Fielding. A surrealist in all his forms, he's an artist, comedian, actor, writer and general stylish, cool guy. His approach to creating is very inspiring to me. After watching a short video of him painting I got my own paints out and jazzed up this old white t-shirt.

Halloween Redux...

2011-11-05T12:06:00.000-07:00

Halloween is one of my favourite holidays for obvious reasons. I have an excuse to use my creative skills and showcase my creations.
This year I did not have the resources that I normally have, so I had to find a way to cut costs.
Most of my ideas require a lot of time and money to execute. I was left feeling like I wouldn't be able to live up to my reputation as a costumer.
Then Betsey hit me.
I already had items of clothing and accessories of her design. Maggie generously donated a black tutu to the cause. I already had a blond wig from my Lady Gaga costume from four Halloween's ago (See Figure 1) .
But I don't half-ass things. If I couldn't make the entire costume from scratch, I was going to make sure the details were perfect.
Betsey Johnson's trademark (aside from her flamboyance and cartwheels) is her exposed hair extensions.

So I hacked up the pristine blond wig, adding make-shift extensions and darkening the roots.

Next, I had to further customize this look. Leopard print was a must. I had some left-over spandex leopard print from my Kat Von D costume from a couple years back(See Figure 2). I used a leather tag that came on my Betsey Johnson purse as a belt buckle and whipped up a quick belt.

The final look was completed by her bright red lips and black eyes.

Figure 1. Halloween 2008

Figure 2. Halloween 2009

The Dog Days of Summer Are Over...

2011-09-15T14:11:00.000-07:00

The hottest days of Summer are done. Labour Day's chilly weather and Tuesday's return to class effectively ushered in a new season.
The calender dates are a mere technicality for me, the weather dictates the season and consequently the wardrobe.
Perhaps because I went to a uniformed High School, I always associate a more conservative look with scholarly pursuits.

Silk/Cashmere Sweater: Vintage
Collared Shirt: Le Chateau
Pleated Skirt: H&M
Knee-high socks by 'Hue': The Bay
Necklace: Forever 21
Glasses: Vintage
Book: The Ethics of Ambiguity by Simone De Beauvoir

Old, new, borrowed, blue...

2011-08-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

I could not be happier for my dear friend Kristina, who was married this past weekend.
She looked stunning as always and there was so much love in that room.
For her wedding I decided to design and make a dress for myself.
The original design is something I created over a year ago and had been looking for an excuse to bring into reality.
From sketch to dress here is a little chronology of my design.

Made from Swiss cotton, the dress has a bit of sheen but is not heavy like a satin. The fabric is all cut on the bias, giving it the draping effect on the skirt, and the well fitting bodice.

Hot days, Cold drinks...

2011-07-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

In the summer there is nothing quite so fine as a frosty beverage.
I love to make drinks as much as I love to consume them and since acquiring a blender there is no limit to what I can make.

Here's a recipe I threw together today.

Frozen Raspberry Lemonade

1 Lemon
1 cup frozen raspberries
1/2 cup coconut water
1 tbsp icing sugar
1/2 cup ice
Optional:
1 1/2 oz. of Vodka

Cut the ends off the lemon and slice off the rind. Cut the sections of the lemon, so that only the flesh will go into the drink. The reason for icing sugar is that it dissolves in cold liquid better than granulated sugar. The coconut water is perfect for this because it's sweeter and slightly more viscous than regular water, so it adds to the drink instead of just diluting it. Put the ingredients in blender, then garnish with fresh mint.

I like this recipe because it's not too sweet. It's so refreshing, with the sugar and coconut water slightly cut down the sour lemon and tart berries.

City of Colour...

2011-05-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

I just got back from New York and I already can't wait to go back. My third time in that city and I'm still in awe of it.
The amount of truly inspired art that exists in that city is enormous in quantity and variety.
I cried when I saw a Jackson Pollack at the MoMA.
I cried when I saw brilliant actors perform in The Normal Heart.
I tried to keep my sobs quiet at the sight of Alexander McQueen's work at The MET.

New York makes me want to be colourful and open. This seems to be at odds with the consensus that this city is unfriendly and will harden you if you stay too long.
When I look at New York I don't see cold, unfeeling skyscrapers. I see trees and beautiful architecture, old and new.
I see ideas and spirit.
But then again I'm a tourist, not a New Yorker.

Outfit worn to see The Normal Heart.
Vintage scarves fashioned into top:
Courage My Love.
Vintage green dress:
My Mother's
Vintage Earrings:
My Nana's

A Recipe for Summer...

2011-04-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

How to make Summer:

-1 part heat
-a handful of care-free friends
-a patio
-as many frosty drinks as needed
-a fresh batch of summer songs
-a pinch of unrequited love as a garnish (substitute lust if you prefer)

I absolutely cannot wait.

Urban Garden...

2011-04-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

Humble beginnings of hopefully a very fruitful garden.
Planted from seed just over a week ago.
To watch a form of life unfold is an amazing thing.

Necessity...

2011-02-26T10:56:00.000-08:00

The past two months have not been all that inspiring.
After spending the better part of January moving to a new apartment, dealing with my ex-landlords and going to school full time I was feeling drained. January left me kind of empty, and my body promptly got sick. So now I've spent the better part of February being ill and tired, only now am I starting to recover.

In order to feel your best, you can't neglect your needs whether they be physical, emotional or mental. I was not taking care of myself in any of these ways, and the most neglected were my artistic needs.
Having a creative outlet is a necessity for me.

Yesterday, while I was avoiding school work, I was hit with some inspiration.
I dug into my scrap fabric and knocked out a dress design in about 10 minutes.
It is incomplete, but it felt so damn good to create something tangible.

2010 Style Stars...

2010-12-29T09:15:00.000-08:00

The year is winding down, and as per usual there is a flurry of "Top" lists. As useless and inaccurate as those lists may be, I love to read them so I'm contributing my own.

Top 5 Stylish Male Stars:

5.Kid Cudi- For his laid-back yet well-fitting style, he's one of the few guys in hip hop to not look contrived.

4.Marc Jacobs- He wears kilts in a non-Scottish, non-ironic way and makes it work. Plus his tattoos look great in his greased-up ad for his fragrance Bang.

3.Mark Ronson- While constantly wearing suits, he manages to look anything but stuffy. He's got an unassuming vibe about him, but a style that really makes a statement.

2. Scott Schuman- Otherwise known as The Sartorialist. He deserves a spot on this list not just because he looks great, but because he is trying to bring great men's fashion into the mainstream.

1. Noel Fielding- My number one pick is this British comedian. His style may not be palatable for some people, but I can't get enough of him. Beside his outrageous wares, he's got cheek bones for days. He is keeping the rock and roll style alive.

(Photo Cred. Exposay.com)

Top 5 Stylish Female Stars:

5. Paloma Faith- This quirky singer has a great voice. Her style is hard to describe, it's how an eccentric Old-Hollywood actress might dress in 2010. But that description doesn't really do her justice.

4. Christina Hendriks- Representing a different body-type, and the media admitting that it's sexy is pretty cool. She's a real person, who has helped to bring back a more demure attitude to the red-carpet.

3.Willow Smith- For the sole factor that she is cooler and more talented than I am, she deserves a place in this list. Very few 10 year olds can pull off her look.

2. Lady Gaga- Kind of an obvious choice, but I had to include Gaga. She is committed to fashion in a way that no one else is. She sees it for the art is really is.

1. Robyn and Lykke Li- Tied for first place are my two favourite Swedes. Both these women are gorgeous, talented and different. They have an effortless, quirky style that challenges standard ideals of beauty. They both have physical attributes that, had they been American pop-stars, would have probably been altered by surgery. These perceived physical flaws are what make them so stunning. Robyn has amazing hair and Lykke Li has amazing eyes. But aside from all of that, both ladies just know how to dress.

Honorable mentions: Common, for his facial hair and commitment to hats and Anne Hathaway for being so sweet and always looking fantastic.

Knit-picking...

2010-11-23T15:06:00.000-08:00

The decision to start knitting again was easy. I was in the Dollar Store picking up supplies for a night of crafting with Laurie and I saw a few balls of surprisingly pretty yarn.
At a $1.00 a piece I couldn't resist getting the yarn.
The only thing I really know how to knit is a scarf.
I did knit a sweater vest a couple years ago, but the knowledge, with which one would knit a sweater vest, no longer exists in my brain.
So I knit a long, comfy circle scarf. Although I look super serious in this photo, I'm actually pleased as punch to have finished the scarf.

Hallowe'en!

2010-10-31T10:01:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of my favourite times of the year. Hallowe'en is a time when I really feel like I get to use my creativity and skills. I get so jazzed up!
My costume choice: Beetle Juice. I chronicled the process of making the costume.
This is how I do Beetle Juice.

I designed and sewed everything myself.
Here's a video with the pictures of the process.

I used Spirit Gum to attach the Rhinestones, which were meant to mimic the rotting flesh/moss on Beetle Juice.
I coloured the wig with green, white and a bit of brown paint.
The make-up was simple enough. I made my skin pale and used purple, gray and navy eyeshadow to contour my eyes and cheeks. Gray eyeliner was used to fill in my brows. Lots of black eyeliner and false lashes defined my eyes.
I decided to wear a black satin corset to go along with the rhinestones and create a more glam version of Beetle Juice.

The final product!

1 year Blog-iversary...

2010-09-29T17:34:00.000-07:00

One year ago today I posted my first blog.
A lot has changed, and in many ways things have stayed the same.
I don't have a new style picture to show you, my mind has been on so many other things.
I decided I should post an old picture just to demonstrate how much has changed over, not just the last year, but the last 3 years of my life.

This is the dress I wore to my High School prom.

I designed and made my dress. I still love it, but it is most definitely not what I would design for myself today.
I'm still fundamentally the same person that I was when this photo was taken, just with a different perspective.
The girl in the white dress had a blinding hope for the future and big dreams.
The girl writing today has smaller, but in some ways more important, aspirations.
I've learned a lot about myself over the last couple years and I think your experiences also have a hand in informing your style.
Right now I'm wearing black, but it is not a sign of mourning.
I just happen to be trying on something I bought today.
As much as style can be a fantasy, we need to be grounded in reality.

Fall into me...

2010-09-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

...Or rather I am into Fall.
Fall could be seen as the hangover to Summer's good time.
I prefer to see it as an opportunity to change. My life has drastically changed with the start of University.
We've left behind our bikinis and wrapped ourselves in scarves.
I love summer, but most of the time I am wearing the least amount of clothing I can, without being indecent. The cooler weather gives me more options.

Here is one option:

Leather Vest: Vintage
Checked Shirt: Winners
Black Skirt: H&M
Tights: destroyed by my own hands
Shoes with leather and patent detail: A little Italian shoe store in Greenwich Village, NYC

Most plentiful time of the year...

2010-09-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

It is somewhat of a good sign that I have not posted a blog in a while.
I've been preoccupied with lots of different things (some fun, some tiring).
Last week I was able, for the first time this year, to go to the Riverdale Farmer's Market.

Though the market runs from late spring through the summer and into fall, I always view this time of year as the most fruitful.
The end of summer and beginning of fall signals the beginning of the end for fresh, local produce.
Soon we will also be celebrating the proverbial harvest when we celebrate Thanksgiving.

Following the ritual of the harvest, I went and picked out some amazing vegetables.

In there we have rainbow carrots, yellow beans, white turnips and some beautiful tomatoes.

I also realize that I have not done a style post in a while. I've been a little distracted lately, not having enough focus to sit and take pictures of myself.
A post on fall fashion and back-to-school wares will be coming soon.

Hometown Glory...

2010-08-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

I went back to my hometown for an evening.
It was for a birthday celebration for someone very special.
Accordingly, my outfit had to be special.
We had dinner at Del Dante's, where I dined on one of my favourite things :
Red wine and thin crust pizza.

The dress code for this event was 'Sex and the City' inspired glam. SATC is styled by the always out-there Patricia Field, known for her unorthodox pairings. I used Pat's style philosophy as inspiration.

Outfit:

Gold and Silver Matte sequin top by Scala
Pink Silk Chiffon Cumberbund is off a Vintage bridesmaid dress
Grey Pinstripe Shorts from Anthropologie
Black Suede Ankle Boots from Nine West

Body Talk...

2010-07-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

One quality that all people with great style share : a certain amount of confidence.

This is not to say they are without insecurities, but they are usually fairly comfortable in their bodies and their choices. The way we present ourselves has a lot to do with our bodies, not just our clothes.

Our posture, walk and attitude contribute to the way people perceive the clothing we are wearing.
The sidewalk is my catwalk and I never walk, I strut. Although, confidence is not always strong and sassy, it can be quiet or coy.

And sure, there are aspects of my body I am not particularly fond of, but I am not ashamed of my shape.

Great style knows no shape.

Finding comfort in your own body is no small feat for many people.
My advice is unapologetic: Fake it 'til you make it.

It has been proven that if you smile, even if the smile has not arrived on your face via a genuine cause, your mood improves. The same can be said for frowning and a worsening mood.

Walk with confidence, and use physicality to change your mentality.

Summer Jams...

2010-07-06T16:12:00.000-07:00

Music always plays a very important part in most people's summer experience.
I am no different.

I am kind of scattered when it comes to the playlists that I create. The different genre's aren't always cohesive, but as a whole the songs seem to make sense, to me at least.
I wanted to share some of the songs that I will be playing this summer.
Some of these songs have been on rotation for a while, or were my favourites from last summer.

I tried to keep it short.
(In reality, pretty much the entire Miike Snow album is on almost every playlist I make)

Here is the list:

1. "Soft" - Kings of Leon
Such a fun party song. A rock song that I can dance to.

2. "Sleepyhead"-Passion Pit
Another kind of old song, but one of my favs.

3. "Little Bit" - Lykke Li
It was hard for me to choose which Lykke song to put on the list, but I think this one has a good mix of beat and proper summer mellow-ness.

4. "Show Me a Good Time"- Drake
I've jumped on the Drake train. But this song encapsulates a lot of what summer is about : having a good time.

5. "Africa (Mothership Connection)" - DJ Cam/Inlove
This song is a complete 180. It's slow, smooth and sexy. This song is a perfect song for a heatwave.

6."New in Town"- Little Boots
The summer is all about road trips and discovering new places to eat and drink.

7. "Ambling Alp" - Yeasayer
I love walking down the sunny street with this one my ipod.

8. "Clap Clap" - The Waking Eyes
This song actually sounds similar to "Soft". Just realized that. With a song about a hot summer in the city, and getting sweaty on the dance floor you can't go wrong.

9. "Window Seat" - Erykah Badu
This is another slow one. The incredible Ms. Badu singing about needing to get away from this all.

10."Lust for Life"- Girls
Not a cover of the song of the same name. Just a happy day-dreaming song.

11. "Dancing on my Own" - Robyn
How many times do you go out with high expectations for a fun summer night, but end up dancing alone. At least you can dance to Robyn's sick beats.

12. "Back of the Van (Fred Falke mix)" - Ladyhawke
This is one of my favourite dance tracks.

13. " Deadbeat Summer" - Neon Indian
I'm obsessed with this song. The lyrics are a narration of a perfect summer.

14. "Memories" - David Guetta feat. Kid Cudi
A great dance track, and summer is all about the memories you create.

15. "Burial" - Miike Snow
This is probably my favourite song by them.

16. "1901" - Phoenix
Just a feel good, electric song. Driving with the windows down.

17. "The High Road"-Broken Bells
Back to the more mellow side.

18. "Islands" - The XX
Continuing on the quieter side, this song has such a sweet simplicity. Another heatwave song.

19. "Electric Feel" - MGMT
This is a song of summers past, and I've played it to death but I still immediately think of good summer times when I hear it. I still love this track with my entire body and soul.

So everybody make a playlist, grab the ipod speakers and let's dance on the beach.

The Boys of Summer...

2010-06-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

I find that quite a few men (young and old) become a little lost when it comes to summer fashion. What they are doing often isn't absolutely awful, but it could use some work. This fact is hit home when I see an impeccable summer outfit on a man.

A few weeks ago I saw a man who had my idea of perfect summer style. Absent were the awful Velcro sandals, ill-fitting shorts and t-shirt, in their place was a sophisticated yet casual outfit.

I wish I could have taken a picture of him, instead I used my memory and drew up a quick sketch.
He was dressed so simply, but the style, fit and his general confidence made me stop in my tracks. He was wearing a crisp, but not starchy, white shirt rolled sleeves. On the bottom perfectly fitting rolled up khakis.

But what made his outfit interesting were his accessories.
He was wearing my favourite summer shoe for males : The deck shoe (also called Boat/Yacht shoe) without socks.
Statement glasses are also one of my favourite kind of pieces.
I was also very drawn to his tattoos. His outfit could be an (admittedly chic) uniform but the tribal tattoo on his chest, and a sleeve of tattoos under his shirt sleeve made this look his own.

By no means should ALL men dress like this, because great style is about dressing to suit your own look and personality.

But there is no excuse for Velcro 'Sport' sandals.
What kind of sports are you doing in sandals?
None.

Back Broke and Dancing...

2010-05-19T10:46:00.000-07:00

Steph and I got tattooed on Monday.
I got the lyrics 'Back Broke And Dancing', from one of my favourite Swell Season songs. This is a song about how even when you are broken down the love in your life can make you happy and keep you going.

I came home Monday night from my trip to Ottawa to find a response from Ryerson about my application to the Fashion program.

Wait-listed.

For the third time I find myself waiting, with only a sliver of hope of getting into this program.
It feels as though my tattoo was a bit of a prophecy and I am finding a little bit of comfort in it.

I have been planning to post pictures from my portfolio since I made it, but I wanted to wait until I received an answer from the fashion program.

Here are some pictures (I submitted better quality photos) of two of the garments that were in my portfolio:

Some dreams are not meant to be. Even though my dream of studying in Ryerson's fashion program most likely will not come true, does not mean I will give up my dream of working in fashion.
Trials and heartache are a part of life. I will keep dancing.

La vie en Rose...

2010-03-31T17:47:00.000-07:00

This past Monday was my 21st birthday.
I realized how lucky I am to have some truly stunning people (inside and out) in my life.
Monday morning I was surprised with flowers and gifts from my roomie Steph.
She delights in making other people happy.
Then Maggie, my kindred spirit, came over with a Soy Latte for me. Brilliant, she knows what my soul needs.

We three divas went to pick out a cake from Daniel et Daniel.
D et D is a fabulous bakery/fine food emporium in Cabbagetown.
Keeping with the french theme, I met up with the rest of my soul mates at Jules Bistro for authentic french cuisine.

Every person who spent my birthday with me (and a few that couldn't make it out) are absolutely amazing people, who I can't thank enough for understanding, loving and supporting me.

Of course everyone looked gorgeous at my dinner, and I felt pretty snazzy myself. I went for a more subdued outfit, inspired by the chic simplicity associated with french fashion.

Outfit:
Wide Leg Trouser Jeans by Simon Chang
Black Linen Blazer by Sinequanone
White V-neck from H&M
Pink skinny belt from H&M
Gold bracelet with pink and white gems from Bloomingdales

Viva(Glam) La Revolution!

2010-03-04T16:47:00.000-08:00

Steph and I modeling VIVA GLAM GAGA

M.A.C's VIVA GLAM campaign is always a really big deal. Since it's birth in 1994 many celebrities have lent their image to the campaign such as Missy Elliot, Pam Anderson, Dita Von Teese and the ladies of 'RuPaul's Drag Race'. The money from the sale of VIVA GLAM shades I through to VI goes to M.A.C AIDS Fund, and is used to support women, men and children affected by HIV/AIDS.

This year, I am definitely more interested because Lady Gaga is involved. Gaga, along with icon Cyndi Lauper, has contributed her own lip stick to the collection. Needless to say, I bought it. Although I am a Lady Gaga fanatic, I did not buy the lippy just because her signature is on it. I bought it because it is a gorgeous lipstick, and also because it supports a cause I feel strongly about.

Ok fine, part of my motivation is because of Gaga, but that is the smallest part. But really, does it matter what the motivation is behind buying the lipstick? The purpose of marketing, and getting these stars involved is to get the word out there about HIV/AIDS and bottom line: it's effective. With every penny from the sales going to the cause, you can't complain. I'm hoping that with all this publicity, it might spark a safe-sex revolution.

One thing I like about this campaign is that it is raising awareness here in North America. So often with many charity causes, they show us pictures of ailing people in a country half way around the world. While the plight of the poor, third world countries is most definitely important, many people dismiss it because it appears as though it is not affecting us. The M.A.C AIDS Fund helps people worldwide and makes sure to let us known that this is a problem here too, in a way that is enlightening, fun and non-threatening.

I also like that Lady Gaga who projects a sexual image to the public and her many young fans, is taking responsibility to promote safe sex.

Maybe this isn't the most conventional way to donate to charity, but with over $160 million (U.S dollars) raised to date, it's hard to argue against it.

If you want to know more about M.A.F go to http://www.macaidsfund.org

'Fash' Foward...

2010-02-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Yes, she's wearing a purse on her head.

It's not even spring yet, but fashion is already in fall/winter again. The industry moves at an quicker pace than us, it needs to. Though my blog is mostly a personal style blog, I can't help but talk about what we are seeing from Moschino's 'Cheap and Chic' Ready-to-wear for F/W '10.
Not only did the models have a good time, the clothes were cool, and nicely styled.

I love this look for a few reasons: Lace, white tights, and the classy version of the 'work boot' heel. As well, the jacket is awesome, and you can't go wrong with gloves.

I'm really digging the mix of pattern and colour. The jacket is sophisticated and fun. I'm dying for these boots. There is something about the 'steel toe' look. I have a pair of stilettos with the same concept, I find it incredibly sexy.

You have to love leather and lace. Especially when the leather is entirely studded. I like that they are round studs and very neatly placed, so its not as hard or DIY looking as those jackets punk kids wear.

So those are some looks that I'm excited about for fall. There are so many more things from other designers that I'm absolutely in love with. This collection just seems more accessible to me, and a more realistic way for normal people to dress in their day-to-day lives.

Remembering McQueen...

2010-02-11T21:25:00.000-08:00

Alexander McQueen and
Philip Treacy at the show they
dedicated to Isabella Blow

A lot has been, and will be said about the death of Alexander McQueen. There is no point in rehashing the facts or speculating. I'm not quite sure how to go about grieving the death of someone I have never met. I've been saddened by other celebrity deaths, but to me this isn't the same. McQueen was not a celebrity to me, he was a man, an artist that changed me and helped me to become the person and artist that I am today.

I am still in shock, not quite believing that never again will Alexander McQueen create. I've had many life-changing fashion moments and I'm inspired by many designers. I can say that I remember the first time I saw a McQueen design, it was also the first time that I fell in love with his genius. I cannot say that for any other designer. The catwalk was white, and there was a huge screen with tonnes of lights. I saw a fantastic multi-layered, multi-coloured dress walk down the run-way. It was by far one of his more subdued designs, but it was undeniably theatrical, daring and visionary.

Since then, he has been one of the most inspirational designers for me. His fearlessness and limitless creativity leaves me in awe. Today is a very sad day for me and his many fans, but especially his friends and family. With the death of his mother just a few days ago, that family has gone through a lot of loss. I will be mourning his death, and paying my respect by wearing a black rose until he is laid to rest.

It's a beautiful day in the neighbourhood(s)...

2010-01-14T14:01:00.000-08:00

Today was an absolutely gorgeous day, sunny with above average temperatures for this time of year.
So I met up with Maggie for Coffee in Yorkville as we often do. We did our usual perusals of Anthropologie and Holt Renfrew ( sadly we can now confirm that our favourite Bond no. 9 sales associate is no longer working there).
Being as today was such a beaut, we kept on walking along.
We made it to another of my favourite neighbourhoods, The Annex.
I hadn't been that way in a long time and it was great to be back.
Of course we made stops at BMV, and my favourite lingerie store Secrets from your Sister.
We even made it into Honest Ed's.
Every time I go there I am convinced that I need to buy various gadgets that I will never use, because they are SUCH a good deal!

All in all, today was beautiful, wonderfully spent with great company. A big thanks goes out to the weather for allowing me to dress nicely, and walk about in this outfit without being cold.

Outfit from the bottom up:

Zebra print tights: Betsy Johnson
Grey pinstripe shorts: Anthropologie
Silk Blouse: Club Monaco

Twas the morn' before Christmas...

2009-12-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

Twas the morn before Christmas and no one was home.
I sat, drinking coffee, at the table alone.
When it hit me so sudden, like the crack of a whip:
What will these people do if I don't tell them what's hip!?!
Snatching up my laptop, I began furiously writing.
After the post was done, I felt something missing.
I looked around at all the cheesy decorations
and realized, Christmas isn't about looking hot.
It's a time for family, friends and for celebrations.
And just like all good things in life, great style can't be bought!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I'm a Fame Monster...

2009-11-27T20:34:00.001-08:00

This is my Pre-Gaga post. I'm sure I'll post another one after the concert tomorrow.
I saw Lady Gaga perform last year, during her Fame Ball tour, in a little club in Kitchener.
Now her Fame Monster tour is taking her to the ACC and I can't wait.
So in honour of My Lady, I've picked out a little monster outfit.
It's not the most outrageous, but I think it's got the Fame Monster feel to it.

This is the outfit that I'll be wearing to the show.
If anyone has been following all the Gaga-gossip, they'll know that she held a contest for fans to make a video of their take on
'the apocalypse'. She'll use bits and pieces of their videos in her concerts.
I guess this is my comment on the apocalypse. We won't go down in flames, the credits will simply roll and this world as we know it will be over.
The End.

Proceed with Caution...

2009-11-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

Cutting one's own hair is not for the faint of heart.
I don't necessarily condone it, or recommend it, but I do it.
I cut my own hair for a few different reasons.

1. I have control issues when it comes to my appearance.
2. Why pay $50 for something I can do myself.
3. The urge to change my hair usually comes on quickly, and I just need to cut my hair right then and there.

So, after having long hair for quite a while, today was the day. I cut off quite a few inches.
And here is how you can do it too.

This technique was taught to me by one of the only other person who has ever cut my hair. She was my hair stylist for my whole life until she got out of the game to become a nurse. So proud of you Andrea!

Step 1.

Put all of your hair in a ponytail on the top of your head.
You can do this wet or dry, I prefer damp.

Step 2.

Cut!

Sounds easy right?

Well yea, it's pretty easy, it's the perfect way to get layers. But it only gets you one style, at whatever length you want it.

You can always do your own finessing after, which I like to do.
Add more layers or bangs if you dare.

This is the final product. It's not that drastic, but considering I've had looooong hair for soooo long, it's definitely a change.

[Edit: I got a little scissor happy and ended up cutting more off, so now it's shorter and a little asymmetrical. I'm a lot happier with it now]

New Beginnings...

2009-11-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in ages, because my trusty ol' lap top has quit this life in favour of greener pastures.
But I have a shiny, new black lap top that I'm now going to take better care of than I did Ol' faithful.
So now is a time for new beginnings.
I've decided on a new favourite nail colour (In case you were wondering my former fav was bright red).

Midnight Madness from Nicole by O.P.I

I orginially bought it for Hallowe'en, because I wanted a dark nail but black nail polish is just not my style.

I've now been wearing it consistently since Hallowe'en, and may just continue to wear it every day until I fall in love with a new colour.

What I love about it, is that it's dark but it's really a navy blue with a sparkle. It feels a little bit gothic, but oh so chic as well. Kind of a Rock Star edge, but a little softer.

I love Rock N' Roll...

2009-10-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me well, will know that I adore going to concerts.
And if the cliche of rock stars dating models is any indication, music and fashion were meant to be lovers.
The rocker style often brings up bad feelings.
Acid wash, white leather and teased hair from the 80's...it's enough to make anyone go and buy a 3 piece suit.
Or what is even worse is the Avril Lavigne post-punk disaster. I'm gagging.
BUT, there is hope because there are some really cool designers and some really cool people who can do the rocker look and it can be really sexy.

Ann Demeulemeester has some really cool pieces that are gothic but not the typical big-baggy-black-jeans-with-chains items that are often associated with that style.

But I digress, I went to a little show for StereoGoesStellar and decided to go with a Rocker Chick look.To me, this outfit is sexy, edgy but not obnoxious.
Wow, that seems to be my style mandate:
"Be stylish, Not obnoxious"

Break it down now:

Stretch satin Bustier from H&M
Brown Leather Vest is vintage
Jeans from Le Chateau

Oh, and I'd like to put in a special mention for these jeans. If you are a girl with curves, but still love to wear skinny jeans, these are THE best skinnies for curvies.

I'll take that as a compliment...

2009-10-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

I had taken approximately 12 steps out of my house when I saw him, and he saw me. He had just left another house on my block, bidding his friend Adieu. I could feel him looking at me as he crossed the street in my direction.
So I gave him one of those "Can I help you?" looks.
He smiled and said:

"Purple pants and Turquoise shoes. wow. I must compliment you on that combination."

I replied with "Thanks".

"Are you on your way to a...a.. Bejeweled convention?", he smiled at me.

I decided not to ruin his joke by pointing out the fact that I wasn't wearing anything 'Bejeweled'.

"Actually, I'm going to the bank."

He laughed, " Even better!"

I made the choice to take his comments as compliments, even though I wasn't sure if he was making fun or not. His tone didn't sound condescending, and I'll take compliments where I can get them, even if I'm snatching them from the claws of a mocking stranger with curly brown hair.I wouldn't exactly call my shoes Turquoise, but close enough buddy.

Oh, and if you're curious, both the pants and the shoes are from H&M.

It may be fall, but it's getting hot in here...

2009-10-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

It was my friend Kristina's Birthday this past week. It was also a little bit of send-off, as she has left Toronto for Niagara-on-the-lake. So accordingly I needed an outfit that was suitable to see my lovely lady.
It was a dreary Friday night, but I was determined to turn the rain into steam!
I love this outfit because it is sexy, but not raunchy. There are some key details that make it!

The top is a sheer fabric, and the top and skirt are joined by a band of black lace. The cream, pleated, slinky, silky skirt of this dress falls so nicely. It's a one of kind, hybrid dress made from different pieces of vintage fabric. And you can't see my shoes, but they are fabulous high-heeled ankle boots.

I'll break it down now:

Vintage dress from Courage My Love
Black shrug from Forever 21
Black opaque tights by Betsy Johnson
Black suede ankle boots from Nine West
Silver locket is vintage

Memories of Summer.

2009-10-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

So as I sit here bundled up in my bed wishing I had a warm tea (but not willing to brave the cold to get it) I think back to a few short weeks ago. It was summer, and it was tank-top-short-skirt kind of weather. I've also had to retire some great summer clothes and I miss some of them already.

This is one of my favourite pieces of the summer:

Photo courtesy of Etalk/Ctv.ca

My banana skirt, with the Andy Warhol banana on it. Overall the outfit I'm wearing is pretty much my ideal summer outfit, complete with my favourite summer accessory: an Iced Americano from Starbucks.

I have a few things to say about Tracy Melchor's outfit, but I really did like her sunglasses.

And props to my cousin Josh for rockin' his look.

The lowdown on this summer outfit:

Andy Warhol skirt was made by me, and credit for finding the fabric goes to my mom.
White lycra tank top from RK (no longer in business)
Black belt is vintage stolen from my mom
Blue crocheted scarf from Madewell
Silver Sandles from Naot
Red Sunglasses are from stand in Kensington
Black Leather bag from Roots

First Outfit of Fall, and a trip for my ego.

2009-09-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

Not that anyone cares, but I love fall fashion. For some reason when the weather starts getting a little crisper, I get hit with the urge to look different.

I know blogs are mostly narcissistic, but no one is forcing you to read this, so don't complain about how shallow or egotistical I am. So, without further justification here is my first new look of this Fall season.
The quality of the photo isn't that great. My camera is in one, my friend and my enemy.
Here's a close up.And here's the low down on where all the pieces are from.

Vintage red lace and fringed dress from Courage my Love
Brown cardigan from H&M
Dark wash skinny jean from Le Chateau
Flat ankle boot from Le Chateau
Locket is vintage, stolen from my mother, or grandmother
Sunglasses from Aldo
Brown leather belt from some store in Stratford that I cannot remember the name of.

So whenever I'm feeling the need, I'll post something fashion related.