The FASHION Blog - April 2009

[4.30.09]

Colour Me Jet Set

Luxury luggage gets a much-needed refresh in kaleidoscopic colors this spring. Prada’s updated travel line, fabricated in their trademark saffiano material, fuses high quality with high fashion. Ditch the dreary black canvas case that you and every other tourista hunts for at baggage claim, and trip the light fantastic this season in shades of indigo, papaya, berry or ochre.
-Fiona Green

[4.29.09]

Designer Donation

Half off designer digs for a cause? You don¹t have to tell us twice. This year¹s annual aWEARness shopping event will include designer items for women, men and children as well as accessories and bridal wear from names such as Elie Tahari, Theory, Michael Kors and Vera Wang at discounts of at least 50% off regular retail prices. The event, which will be held on May 3 at the Liberty Grand Exhibition Place, will raise funds for Princess Margaret Hospital for ovarian cancer research. For a list of donors visit www.awearnesscanada.com.
—Emily Huggard

[4.29.09]

Waist Not

Does the thought of baring all in a tank top this summer enough to make you long for winter sweaters again? Then worry no longer with these genius tops. Yummie Tummie offers shapewear that whittles your waist but in stylish styles and prints you can wear all on their own. So long to nude body stockings. Here’s your right to bare arms.
-Elisa Kosonen

[4.28.09]

Noteworthy Unmentionables

Vying for a chance to represent Canada at the Triumph Inspiration Award International Finals in Milan during fashion week, 30 George Brown Design students showcased their lingerie creations today at the Design Exchange in Toronto. Flare’s Editor in Chief, Lisa Tant joined the judging panel to choose the winning look. The second year students were tasked to create a lingerie look inspired by a personal icon, which led to some particularly inventive perspectives strutting out on the runway. Gandhi, Prince and even Princess Diana were just some of inspirations chosen. Rosie the Riveter, complete with a bandana and 40s high-waisted panties, and Lucille Ball, in a look straight from the chocolate factory episode, were crowd favourites. But it was Andrea Tucker’s Art Deco-inspired design that took the grand prize home. Her silver and black satin bra and panty set complete with a theatrical and glamorous feather boa-trimmed cape, was the ultimate crowd-pleaser and landed her a trip to Milan to compete in the finals this September. Congrats!

[4.27.09]

Photo: Paul Toogood

New Label Love

Congratulations FAREN! The brand new label, designed by Faren Tami, took home a prize package valued at $25,000 at the TFI New Labels design competition. Toronto’s Fashion Incubator (TFI), the ultimate source of support for burgeoning designers, hosted the gala event this past Saturday at the historic Carlu. Faren was one of four designers picked to go head to head in a runway showdown for the grand prize. Her collection, titled Futurology and inspired by futuristic eco buildings from around the world, was full of sharp structured coats and draped frocks in shades of black, grey with pops of steel blue and marigold. Thieves by Sonja den Elzen, Jody Leigh and GushueSwim (who surprised the audience with a performance by Rio showgirls before her collection show) rounded out the list of new talent.

[4.27.09]

Get Dressed

Trousers have had their day. Come summer it’s all about getting out your lovely pins and rocking the perfect dress. And for that, Le Chateau is way ahead of us. Their new summer collection of effortless dresses, think juicy colours and pretty detailing, will hit stores in May. Plus, the new range offers styles that flatter all ages, from 20s to 50s. This isn’t your little sister’s Le Chateau anymore.
-Elisa Kosonen

For more great style at every age click here

[4.26.09]

FAT – Toronto’s Alternative Fashion Week

Another day, another fashion week. It’s true what they say! Fashion doesn’t sleep. So this week I’ve been checking out avant garde and up and coming design talent in the beautiful Distillery District here in Toronto. Every night there is a jam-packed schedule of performance art, fashion runways shows, live music, cool DJs and video installations.

Tuesday began the week with a Home theme featuring designers who are exploring familiar things such as culture, romance and domesticity. Loved Diepo’s take on lingerie with wearable jersey and satin pieces perfect for any 40s pin-up wannabe. A black velvet strapless number channeled Veronica Lake perfectly. Vesture’s hobble skirts and sculptural nun habit pushed the limits in a provocative way.

Wednesday was all about Earth Day and showcased designers influenced by nature and evolution. The highlight of the evening was Cherry Blossom’s eco-friendly wares. Ripped jeans, Rodarte tights and a cool tulip dress were personal favourites. The evening ended with quite the spectacle with Too Hot Too Wet Too Dangerous. Tequila shots were passed around and then dancing polar bears took to the stage. That’s right, guys in polar bear suits hip hop dancing on the runway to a beat box performer. Entertaining? Totally. Fashion? Not at all.

Thursday was titled Gutter, with the intent on delving into the extreme. The designers didn’t really follow this to a tee and much of it felt like Halloween costumes, but Tassoni Brasil’s first line of clothes – cute knitwear, fun bikinis and flared skirts – was a colourful, wearable hit. Breeyn McCarney, a Central Saint Martins alum, showcased cool frocks.

Today’s closing night held a few surprise hits. The evening was all about going Beyond. Wasn’t sure what to expect as there have been surprises and random perspectives abound each day, and certainly boundaries have been pushed to the extreme. But Heidi Ackerman’s sculptural knits and Christabel Couture’s Gareth Pugh-esque take on fashion proved to be more than intriguing. But my favourites had to be the most wearable of the bunch, hardly going beyond. Lovas by Wesley Badanjak showed office wear in simple shifts, satin blouses and slim trousers. His mentor is David Dixon and it’s almost a little too obvious in his designs, but it’s clear he’s learned from a master. Salvador was a cute collection of knitwear dresses in scuba style seams and paneling. Loved the mesh blended with jersey and linen as well, but the embroidered flowers let the collection down.

All around it’s a fun week. Friends come out to cheer on and it’s an opportunity for artists and designers to go all out with their designs to a warm and supportive crowd. The next all-star designer may not be backstage here, but a bunch of imagination is. And there’s no reason not to celebrate that.

[4.25.09]

Aloha Miu Miu

As if we needed another reason to dream of an island getaway. Miu Miu has just opened their first Hawaii boutique in Honolulu’s answer to Holt Renfrew, the Ala Moana department store. To commemorate the opening, this sweet limited edition quilted handbag is up for grabs.

[4.24.09]

Shop for a Worthwhile Cause

On your next visit to Winners or HomeSense for affordable chic, make sure you grab a tote or t-shirt by Shelter From the Storm too. The national campaign, launched by the Canadian Women’s Foundation, is dedicated to ending violence against women. Net proceeds limited edition products, on sale until May 10th, will benefit more than 455 women’s shelters and community programs across Canada. Go to shelterfromthestorm.ca for more information on how you can help end violence against women.

[4.23.09]

Feel the love...

Anthropologie, the softer, sweeter sister of Urban Outfitters, has opened its first Canadian store in the hip new outdoor mall enclave, Shops at Don Mills. With its eclectic mix of earth friendly frocks, girlish separates by hip labels Odile and Leifsdottir, and colorful baubles, it’s not your regular mall haunt. Things to lust for? Their fabulously pretty mix of hostess-y housewares gifts like Tokyomilk and Mistral soaps for under $15, not to mention the adorable print beddings and delicate guest towels.
- Tammy Palmer

[4.22.09]

We knew we were in for something special when we saw the massive lineups down Bloor Street… Last night Nicole Richie, our favorite reformed celebutante, turned up at Holt Renfrew to launch her new jewelry line House of Harlow 1960. The collection, not surprisingly, have an easy breezy glam sensibility to them – think statement necklaces, bold bangles and even headpieces a la Lord of the Rings. What is surprising however is how sophisticated and affordable the pieces are - prices start from a mere $25! Last year's shoppers snapped up the entire collection with online pre-orders before it even hit stores—so judging by the turn out last night we suggest you head over to Holt’s before it's too late!
- Aya McMillan

[4.22.09]

Cool Threads

Earth Day is a lot like Valentine’s Day. We shouldn’t use just one day to show our love to the environment. So for an eco choice that will wear all year long, check out the Rethread Collection. Newly launched by celeb beloved label Thread Social, the line offers cocktail dresses and ladylike skirts cut from excess fabric. Plus, with prices under $225 it flatters our thread-bare wallets, so you’ll be saving cash and the environment in style. www.social.threaddesign.com

[4.21.09]

A New York Minute with Gap

Leave it to Patrick Robinson to take Gap’s ever evolving jeans to another level with a fresh re-imagined look for Fall. Last night in NYC, I was with the dashing designer for an exclusive preview of "1969", his new men’s and women’s premium denim collection for the ubiquitous brand. The classic blues have been reworked, restyled, re-jigged, right down to the zippers and thread. The result? Directional styles that rival hip labels, super soft denim and amazing fits - all for a mere $79.50. “We dedicated ourselves to perfecting a variety of iconic shapes, one of which will appeal to each and every person,” Robinson said, clearly keeping his eye on style for the masses as always. Come August, get ready to your own perfect fitting pair. Keep your eyes out for the Always Skinny, with cool brass button ankle closures that you can unbutton to slide over the tops of your heels, the Boyfriend jean, faded blue with a slouchier, softer look, and a personal fave, the Chambray quilted vest.
- Tammy Palmer

[4.21.09]

SUSTAINABLE SPORTSWEAR

“We are trying to design a company that is inherently self-sustaining and not at the expense of the environment” says Icebreaker CEO Jeremy Moon. Based in New Zealand, Icebreaker creates edgy outerwear from renewable and biodegradable merino fiber. The brand has always been committed to sustainability and ethical manufacturing. But their new program, Baacode, will allow shoppers to see just how they put their claims into action. Each item has it’s own unique Baacode, which customers can enter online at www.icebreaker.com/baacode. By entering the code, shoppers are given the chance to trace the production process of their specific garment from premium fiber to sleek athletic gear.
-Erica Cupido, FLARE Intern

[4.20.09]

Top Design

Who needs reality TV to participate in a design challenge? Holt Renfrew has teamed up with L.A. streetwear label Modern Amusement for a t-shirt design contest exclusive to Canadians. To enter create an original graphic featuring their signature crow and submit via email by May 15th. Thirty of those designs will be chosen to compete in the online challenge at www.holtscontemporary.com where the public will cast their vote to narrow it down to three finalists. The grand prize winner, chosen by Holts and Modern Amusement, will be sent on a three-day trip to L.A. to witness their t-shirt being produced. The winner’s design will be sold exclusively at Holt Renfrew. Fashion fame could be yours.

[4.19.09]

Photo: CARAS/iphoto

Definitely, Maybe

Some designers wait years to dress a star on the red carpet. But for Sarah Catalfo, the honour came just after her 20th birthday. The up and comer’s gown from her Toronto-based label Maybe by Sarah Catalfo was worn by pop sensation Lights at this year’s Juno Awards at which the songstress won Best New Artist. When it comes to Catalfo’s future in fashion, maybe isn’t likely to be the operative word. www.myspace.com/maybebysc

[4.17.09]

GIRL ABOUT DOWNTOWN:

Canadian designer Erin Kleinberg is bridging the gap between edgy and eco-friendly. Her designs offer an effortlessly cool aesthetic (think neutral colour palettes, luxe organic fabrics and glam embellishments) that have become a favorite of socially conscious shoppers and Hollywood’s cool girl contingent alike. Want proof? Rock royalty Theodora Richards (Keith’s kid don’t ‘cha know) is fronting Kleinberg’s fall look book, and features the downtown muse in a mix of tailored blazers and oversized tees. “I chose Theo because she really represents what the brand is about,” says the Toronto designer. “She is so naturally beautiful, easy going and sophisticated.” erinkleinberg.com
-Erica Cupido, FLARE Intern

[4.16.09]

Prada skirts from Spring and Fall 2004 and Spring 2006.

SKIRTING THE ISSUE

Season after season, Miuccia Prada wows us with her ever-evolving and iconic skirts. Waist Down, the house’s traveling exhibition devoted to the style essential will this year hit its new venue, The Prada Transformer, in Seoul from April 25-May 24 featuring skirts and mannequins designed by fashion students from eight design programs in Seoul, hand-selected by Lady Miuccia herself.
-Emily Huggard

[4.15.09]

HOUSE OF DENIM

They’ve been flared, studded and ripped, but jeans have never been reworked quite like this. Project Denim is a four-day denim drive beginning at noon on Wednesday April 22, 2009. All of the donated denim will be recycled into eco-friendly home insulation, which will be used in Habitat for Humanity’s first Mississauga home. But before breaking ground, Square One is commemorating the event with a denim retrospective that looks at the way we’ve worn jeans since 1940. Project Denim is also going to be influenced by Toronto’s LG Fashion Week, as show producer Erika Larva coordinates the “Still Modelling” show. “Still Modelling” will be presented twice daily throughout the drive in Square One’s Centre Court. Habitat for Humanity is set to break Mississauga ground this April, just in time for a fashionable Earth Day.
-Erica Cupido, FLARE Intern

[4.14.09]

WORK IT

No hard working career girl is complete without classic accoutrements – and Tommy Hilfiger is doing its part. Proceeds from the sale of their limited edition scarf, $30, benefit Dress For Success, a non-profit organization that provides professional attire and career support to disadvantaged women. We can’t think of a better reason to rock business attire.
-Erica Cupido, FLARE Intern

[4.13.09]

We Heart Daria

Frolicking in fabulous clothes on a stunning white sand beach is all in a day’s work for this Canadian model. Daria Werbowy will be starring in the H&M ads for the new Matthew Williamson collaboration collection, which launches later this month. To shoot the campaign she headed to Mexico with the designer himself for a little fun in the sun and, in this behind-the-scenes sneak peek, it looks like the perfect backdrop for the exotic clothes. Next up, the British designer will take a turn on the other side of the camera and star in the ads for the menswear portion of the capsule line. Be sure to check out our May issue read our exclusive interview with Williamson.

[4.09.09]

Barely There

Wear white pants and skin-thin tees with your head held high this summer thanks to My Skins. The seamless bra and panties are available in 20 skin-matching shades that will match just about any skin tone – perfect for those cool almost sheer slouchy tops. Plus you can wear the thinnest of materials without revealing that dreaded underwear line. Makes us realize how much we heart fabric technology.
—Laura Flanagan

[4.08.09]

Scene Stealer

Did you notice the über-cute lime-green tote on Gossip Girl last week? We did too, and being the enterprising ladies that we are, we tracked it down. Turns out it’s the Alexa bag by Calgary-based label Kara James, available in green, white or all-purpose black with interchangeable straps. The line is making waves south of the border – Jill Biden took hers on the journey to the White House – and has just added a luxe croc-embossed collection. We think the next cameo appearance should be in our wardrobes. www.karajamesbags.com.
—Laura Flanagan

[4.07.09]

Pretty Prize

What better way to usher in summer than with a brand-new frock? Perhaps with one that’s free? Montreal designer Stacey Zhang is giving away a 100% organic, custom-made dress to one lucky contest winner. Visit www.staceyzhang.com for details and to shop the new online boutique for Zhang’s Spring ’09 collection, full of easy dresses, jumpsuits and sexy men’s tailoring.
—Laura Flanagan

[4.06.09]

Green Tee

With Donna Karan on board (she’s quit fur for good) ethical fashion just keeps getting better. To start, the iconic American designer is putting her own stamp on the ubiquitous eco-friendly tee. Working with Urban Zen, a foundation she co-founded, Karan has designed four t-shirts exclusively for Tonic. 10% of proceeds will benefit each organization. Available now at Tonic.com

[4.04.09]

Cartier Love bracelets, $42,000.

A Sparkling Affair

To celebrate the re-opening of Cartier’s flagship boutique on Bloor, they rolled out the red carpet last week for an evening of champagne and diamonds. Could it get any better? Greeted by red uniformed bellboys and a live jazz band, we toured the gorgeous baubles and the exquisite Haute Joaillerie collection which was flown in for the occasion. The boutique has expanded to nearly twice the size of the original location – which means twice as many jewels – and boasts a gleaming 40 foot bronze façade which packs glamorous punch on the busy street. This is the first of its kind in North America and inspired by the Cartier Mansion on Rue de la Paix in Paris. Be sure to take your own tour of the luxe boutique by April 20th – the Haute Joaillerie collection will be on display until then.

[4.03.09]

View Slideshow »

Gucci Benefits Dignitas International

It was a full house at the Gucci boutique on Bloor last night when the glitterati packed in to fete the new renovation. Guests sipped on Kir Royales while touring and shopping the wares and checking out the Spring/Summer 09 collection as showcased by models doing their best impressions of mannequins. The expanded space has a Gucci-worthy sex appeal with mirrored bronze panels, smoked glass and rose gold details with an Art Deco feel. To commemorate the renovation Gucci made a special contribution to Dignitas International, a Canadian-based medical humanitarian organization which helps children affected by HIV and AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, and donated 10% of sales from the event.

[4.02.09]

Shop Talk

Looking for a little sartorial patriotism? Then head to Simon Chang's first signature store at the Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket. But don't expect the standard generic mall experience. The Vancouver-born, Montreal-based designer wants shoppers to get creative. "I call it "think outside of the closet" because that is something that we should think of. You know, experiment," he says. "I'm trying to really emphasize that to my customer. I say, be different, individual, be memorable." With a store that boasts colourful and detailed dresses, work wear and casual separates, plus his new range of shapewear, it won't be difficult to expand our horizons. Next up, Chang has more stores in the works and a line of home décor.
– Elisa Kosonen

[4.01.09]

Campaign Star

Canada’s designer twins want your vote! Dan and Dean of DSquared2 are keen to secure a spot on the Canadian Walk of Fame and are campaigning to be the next talent to ‘cement’ their star status. Love their glamazon collections and consistent nods to Canuck roots or just in the giving mood? Then head to www.canadaswalkoffame.com/nomination before April 30th to place your vote.