Toronto Alert

MOST COVETED There’s only one cure for the holiday blues and that’s a trip to new denim spot Covet + Crave. Owner Kim Roberts has a hankering for premium denim that fits jean shoppers on the hunt for everyday ease. Lust for trouser and stovepipe cuts by Fidelity, Hudson, J Brand and a long list of other desirable labels. And don’t forget to top your new slacks with one of Roberts’ equally enviable t-shirts or knits. 789 King Street West, 416-860-9898.

SHAGGING FOR SHIRTS Fresh shags? 3-Somes? What sort of shop is this? It’s Green Shag where Toronto guys go for custom shirts and novelty cufflinks. Fresh shags refers to an always evolving line of dress styles and button downs cut from striped, polka dotted and solid shirting. The 3-some (shown) is a trio of shirts that take your guy from the boardroom to casual Fridays to after work drinks. And those cufflinks? Stuff your man’s stocking with studs shaped like hockey rinks or squares of American dollar bills. 670 Queen Street West, 416-360-7424.

EVER GREEN Green gifts galore are up for grabs at Hazelton Lanes’ Organic Lifestyle boutique in Yorkville. Tie up Tassar silk scarves ($69) in earth tones and rainbow stripes or keep cozy in spa-soft organic cotton robes ($129). For the kiddies, there’s colourful HABA rolling turtle toys ($29.95/set of three) made from eco-friendly maple and beech wood. 87 Avenue Road, 416-921-7317.

SPA SEASON A trip to the Amazon for some rainforest rest and relaxation would feel marvelous in the middle of this holiday hoopla. But if you’re sticking close to home this season, the Stillwater Spa’s Rainforest Rejuvenation package ($295) is the next best escape. The two-part treatment includes a stress busting Rainforest Oxygenating Facial and an Amazon Aqua Journey massage where two therapists stretch out Christmas kinks while your body is suspended in a 97 degree water bath. We’re mellowing out already! Park Hyatt Hotel, 4 Avenue Road, 416-926-2389.

ABSOLUT-ELY FABULOUS Holiday party people don’t usually need much incentive to get into a seasonal spirit but, just in case, spread some cheers with this fabulously festive find from Absolut. A limited edition sleeve stitched with three thousand-plus sequins zips up the back of Absolut’s classic vodka bottle. Now you and your hostess gift can arrive at Christmas cocktails looking equally glam. $26.95, LCBO, lcbo.com.

WIN A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA In celebration of Baz Luhrmann’s new movie, Australia, FLARE and Tourism Australia are sending one winner and a guest Down Under. Enter at www.flare.com/australia. Contest closes January 11, 2009.

FLARE VOLUNTEER AWARDS Each year FLARE honours six of Canada’s most outstanding volunteers, and this year – our 13th annual awards – we are also looking for Canada’s best teenage volunteer. Help the volunteer in your life receive the recognition she deserves and nominate her today. For an official nomination form visit: flare.com/volunteer

GIVE FLARE AND WIN! For every FLARE magazine gift subscription you give, your name will be entered for a chance to win a 60″ freshwater pearl necklace with signature clasp from Birks. Enter here!