Beauty

Montreal Alert

By


Montreal Alert
June 2008

Janna Zittrer,
Montreal Correspondent

ALL THAT JAZZ There’s nothing like Montreal in June, when you can spend your nights under the stars toe-tapping to the rhythmic beats of brilliant musicians from around the world at the Festival International de Jazz. Just as its moniker suggests, there’s plenty of jazz to be had, but not to worry if that ain’t your bag—the fest also features plenty of blues, reggae, salsa and world music, so throw on some hot heels and prepare to dance the night away.

HOT TALENT Score major bragging rights when you see living legends Leonard Cohen (June 23–25), Al Green (June 28) and James Taylor (July 6) live on stage. For some guaranteed “You go girl!” moments, catch Aretha Franklin (July 3, 4) and Les Nouvelles Divas (June 25-July 5), a new series featuring fresh female talent. For more information, call 514-871-1881 or visit montrealjazzfest.com.

COOL COCKTAILS A quick jive will take you over to Phillips Lounge. With its long, lit-up tables, tempting “tapatizers” and eye-catching art, it’s the perfect spot to chill out over cocktails while recounting your favourite boogie-woogie numbers of the night. 1184 Phillips Square.

HOT FROCKS Turn heads in notice-me-now dresses designed by Montreal’s own Céline Vautour. Her whimsical debut line, Wa’Ou, features funky frocks and one-of-a-kind designs made with appliqués and embroidery so unique, you can be sure you won’t see your carbon copy in the concert crowd. Available online at etsy.com and at Local 23 (23 Bernard O.).

COOL CLOTHES Check out PointZero’s new pop-up store, where you’ll find the locally based line’s easy-on-the-eyes (and easy-on-the-wallet) summer collections, including playful print tops by Nicole Benisti for PointZero and super-cute separates and dresses from Nicky B—all perfect for getting your groove on. And stay tuned for a PointZero flagship store, set to take over the same space this winter. 1285 de Maisonneuve O.

HOT SHOP Got a hot date to see De La Soul (June 28) but nothing to wear? Don’t panic, just head to downtown’s new Diesel store for all the edgy apparel and accessories you’d expect from the Italian fashion house, plus the new Black Gold collection, a laid-back-luxe line featuring sophisticated takes on the brand’s signature streetwear. 2114 de la Montagne.