Stella was a diver and she was always down

hot sh*t

2005-04-28T00:07:00.000-04:00

I've found some impeccable purses that, if you can afford the investment, will stand the test of time. Everyone should have a purse that is both funcitonal and fashionable, suiting your daytime efforts but we all NEED a bag that is truly an embellished work of art. I've included both so take notes.

Gucci's mini flap bag
It's embellished with velvet and crocodile and it just screams modern goth in the most lavish way possible.
$3790 USD

Riviera straw clutch by Kate Spade
It's summer, it's sophisticated...it's simple. You could always find a use for this year after year and the price is amazing.
$175

Marc Jacobs calfskin bag
So functional and so beautiful it effing hurts. This is the bag I lay awake at night crying over because it remains for me financially elusive.
$795

Valentino's small jewelled hobo
Delicate & reminiscent of prom...and coral is THE color for me this season. I have a coral chiffon skirt just a tad darker than this b*tch. It would be truly heaven to sport that over-the-top combination.
$940

Bargain brags: Two pairs of Seven Jeans for $80 CAD and a white leather Michael by Michael Kors belt for $20 CAD.

Bargain tip: If you live in a metropolitan area, it is worth the ghetto bus ride out to the sticks to comb over their local discount designer stores. You'll find that these stores aren't nearly as picked over as the number of Fashionistas per capita greatly diminishes as you head away from the hustle and bustle. On the flip side, I can only find (on occassion) Valentino & Versace downtown. WTF.

some shoes for you...

2005-04-10T20:37:00.000-04:00

Wow, April has to be the worst month for us Uni students. But somewhere between work, school and shopping I've found some cute shoes from Neiman Marcus (of course). I wish I could afford these but I blew all my extra cash at the Bobbi Brown counter at Holt's. Her stuff is so great for girls with problem skin such as myself. Anyhow, on to the shoes.

Manolo Blahnik's Patent Mary Janes in Lime.
So bright, so shiny - you'll definitely get a lot of attention in these. I have a lime terrycloth Juicy Couture skirt...would that be too much lime?
$485 USD

Ankle-wrap Espadrille, Candy Check by Burberry.
These are too sweet for words. I'd love to wear them on the patio up at the club sitting next to the 18th hole green. How bourgeois.
$245

Floral Brocade Slingback, Manolo Blahnik.
Floral print - that's hot. These slingbacks scream "Sunday brunch".
$525

Hollywould's Beaded Sandal.
These make me think of my Mum. She loves anything beachy with seashells etc. And she looks hot in heels but convincing her to wear them is difficult. She's getting there though. Last time she came to town she was like, "Where can we find those Man-o-lo..What are they called?". My heart jumped!
$535

Happy 21

2005-03-28T18:15:00.000-05:00

birth wishlist

2005-03-27T22:32:00.000-05:00

With one day left until the big 21, I thought I'd go along with PinkMirage and post some birthday wishes.

Cole Haan's Suede Mary Janes
I know these are sporty BUT I think the use of suede cancels this out. And, as a work shoe they would be perfect because they have "Nike-Air technology" - making them super comfy.
$155 USD

Emilio Pucci Printed Bag
This silk bag is a of a decent size to carry a full wallet, phone, digital camera and makeup - everything necessary. And it's mod. I'm going to go searching for this at Holt's tomorrow.
$220 USD

Lulu Guinness Embroidered Wedge Sandals
These are just so sweet. It's important to have shoes that make you feel dainty and elegant.
$260 USD

Valentino Tropical Floral Dress
If I had a year's tuition to throw away, I'd wear this out tomorrow night.
$6780 USD

update: AA

2005-03-14T19:51:00.000-05:00

I think I somehow forgot to mention that you don't have to vist the US to experience the glorious American Apparel. Simply visit these fine cities to get yourself started:

London, England
Paris, France
Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt or Koln, Germany
Mexico City or Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, Edmonton or Kingston, Canada

and of course LA, NY, Portland, San Diego, Seattle, Miami, Key West, Boston, Chicago, Baltimore, San Francisco Bay Area, Las Vegas, or Phoenix

American Apparel

Allow me to introduce you two!

2005-03-10T21:59:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard of this company yet you may be living in a hole (possibly) because American Apparels are popping up left, right and center.
From the outside it may appear like an edgy GAP but that couldn't be further from the truth. It may also look like simple t-shirt shop - well, that's only half true.
And at this point I feel I should say how utterly biased I am as I work there.

WHY YOU SHOULD SHOP HERE

Besides the fact that the company is sweatshop free & it supports fair labour/wages - the clothes are the most versatile out there. There are no logos and loads of colours & styles. This means that you can go in and really create your own look or at least find something you love. Not to mention that all the cotton is of super fine quality and you can print on every item (even the undies!).

CHECK OUT

A. the Yoga Pant: you must have this. Spandex cotton, tight yet slightly flared pant with no elastic waistband bullshit. It is the most comfortable pair of pants I have ever encountered. One of the bigwigs at AA here in Toronto wears hers with a pair of Marc Jacobs rubber boots. So Chic.

B. the Hot Shorts: once you wear them you will never wear any other panties again. And yes, you can get them in rainbow stripes.

Oscar critique

2005-03-03T00:12:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been a while ladies & gents...the last couple weeks have been filled with illness, ex-sex, Valentine's Day fights with THE ex and (gasp!) work. But I'm back in the blog saddle as it were and have been putting together my thoughts on Sunday's fashion disaster called the Academy Awards. But blast those clever web designers because I can't sucessfully steal any copyrighted pictures for you. I'm just going to list off my insults to save time.

1. Natalie Portman: That dirt-coloured dress constructed of some sort of netting didn't work at all. The braided straps were so thick on her...they stood up. I dislike her anyhow, but really...this was not a good look for anyone.

2. Renee Zellweger: She shouldn't be a brunette - plain and simple. The dress itself was stunning but the complextion her hair gave her was less than radiant.

3. Giselle: I didn't HATE the muu-muu deal. She's pregnant, right?

4. Kate Winslet: That horrid colour aside, didn't the style just speak "80s, off-the-rack"?

5. Hilary Swank: It's not a secret that I dislike her BUT this dress just screamed "Star Trek: Voyager". It was so bizarrely tight that I was uncomfortable.

6. Cate Blanchett: I liked this muted yellow gown but her pink lipstick just ruined it.

7. Scarlett Johansson: Oh, what a shame this was. I liked her crimped hair but not the pink, flowered jewellery in it. Very reminiscent of Drew Barrymore a few years ago. But the dress/outfit deal...she made it herself, right?

There were so many more sheer disasters but I don't want to bore you with my bitchiness. But did you notice the overall trend in hair? It was the dirty, day old look...but the "I actually didn't shower today" look. Unappealing! Messy + volume + cleanliness = sexiness. Flat + product + televised globally = sad.

BEST DRESSED: Beyonce (on the red carpet) was perfection. Her well-cut black dress gave her an amazing figure and the earrings were great.

HONOURABLE MENTION: Maggie Gyllenhaal. Her dress was unconventional yet cool without being bizarre. Ladies, take note.

in love

2005-02-10T01:56:00.000-05:00

I can't help but post my loverly new purse from Banana Republic. It's decadent and it makes me want a huge, 40s style skirt & hat. Not to mention how it doubles my urge to take an extragant boat ride across the Atlantic a la Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

discounter

2005-02-10T01:28:00.000-05:00

I don't claim to be a super discount shopper by any means...maybe I just get lucky BUT I do follow some loose rules to successfully discount shop.

1. Know where to go & go regularly. Sometimes it takes sheer luck to find the right spot to get cheap stuff year round but going in a few places that you would usually pass up because of their exterior or word of mouth can be rewarding. And to keep on the ball, go in all the time. Find out when they get their shipments (in Canada Winners gets about bi-weekly shipments) so you can have the freshest pick of discounted designer pieces.

2. Know your sale seasons. Off season though highly un-glamorous IS the most fruitful time to shop. Buy a winter coat in January & a swim suit in September - again, un-glamorous but if you want a suit that will last a couple seasons buy something classic at discount prices.
ps: right now & March are great times to shop...so is like, November.

3. Try on EVERYTHING even if you know it will fit. Ugly things tend to look pretty on a rack when they are Versace and discounted. Just because it has a great label doesn't make it right for you. And try on things that look ugly on the rack because you just never know.

4. Think about whether or not you would buy it at full price. Some people (cough, InStyle) say as a rule you shouldn't buy something if you wouldn't pay full price for it. I disagree when it comes to uber-trendy pieces meant for a season or two (CAUTION: usually if it's discounted it's already had its season to shine so beware).

5. And again, go all the time. You'll get discouraged because not every time you go will you find a steal...but if you put in the effort you'll be rewarded.

My favourite recent finds: I found a Valentino bra with chiffon trim at Winner's for $40 CAD
Mother got a purse and wallet yesterday at Furla for $300 CAD
And a just got a black leather skirt by Mendocino's house label for $45 CAD (black leather is almost too naughty for public)

shopping spree

2005-01-31T21:07:00.000-05:00

Last Friday I went on a mini shopping spree which of course was brought on by more bs from more asshole ex bfs. Anyhow, my emotional pain was balanced by sheer luck as I happened upon some great finds. I only have pictures for a few things as discount shopping always leaves you with oddly great pieces from indistinguishable seasons...

Juicy Couture jeans from Winners ... approx. $57 USD

Kenneth Cole pink ballet flats from Winners ... approx. $33

Lux Cap Sleeve Chiffon Tie Neck shirt from Urban Outfitters ... approx. $12
This photo makes the shirt look ugly (no offense to the model, it's not your fault) as the shirt is actually form-fitting & sheer on me.

Lux Chiffon Tiered Cami ... approx. $8

I also bought some regularly priced makeup from Sephora...not a steal but wonderful regardless.

Bunny Balm by Too Faced: self-proclaimed "seductive lip balm" - it definitely puts you in the mood

Color Frequency Eyeshadow in "Progress & Perspective" by Tony & Tina (not the shade pictured): the duo I purchased are shimmery caramel shades - they're great, warm tones

update: best of the flats

2005-01-30T21:33:00.000-05:00

Well, I travelled to Urban Outfitters to see these flats first hand and it was quite unfortunate. The embellished ballet flat is just too darn big and they didn't have any smaller sizes. Quite disappointing.
My shopping trip wasn't a completely loss though. Once I come home from well, home I'll put up my beautiful catches.

best of the flats

2005-01-28T01:15:00.000-05:00

Even though I'm a short girl (just 5'4") I do so enjoy my flats. I think it's partly because I spent most of my adolescence wearing plats until I blistered and maybe because I live in a metropolis where I must walk everywhere but now nothing makes me feel cuter than little pair of sweet ballet slippers or mary janes.

Yes, these are all on my birthday list...

Burberry Check Ballerina Slipper, Novacheck...$250 USD
NeimanMarcus.com

Kate Spade suede ballerina...$265
NeimanMarcus.com

Embellished Ballet Flat...$28 USD
UrbanOutfitters.com

Macrame Skimmer...$18 USD
UrbanOutfitters.com

I was going to put on some of Lacoste's mary janes but really they are too sporty. "Sporty" is not a look - it should be left at the gym. All of the flats on here are delicate & sexy which is the way it should be.

atomic

2005-01-22T20:45:00.000-05:00

Last night my fabulous roommate and I headed over to Lee's Palace just after midnight and were suprised to find no lines at the door. The sudden mini snow storm made for an interesting evening at the dance cave to say the least...

Usually mid-January, you can expect to wait in the freezing cold for at least 20 minutes to get in, especially if you're arriving after midnight. The trick is actually to go early even though it means enduring an empty club and bad dancers taking up the entire floor.

The music is generally quite good if you're looking for the essentially hipster mix but the djs do insist on playing the ridiculously popular (currently that includes The Killers which of course is unfortunate).

The only horrid drawback is that you can expect to wait a half hour (at least) to get a drink as there are only two bartenders for the entire upstairs. Of course, get doubles when you do finally make it.

Tonight we are off to Cobalt on College St. and luckily it's only three blocks away as the whether here is dangerously cold. Cobalt has quite possibly the best selection of cocktails in the area and the martinis are STRONG. If you go, get the Vespa - it's better than a Cosmopolitan.

Lee's Palace

Jennifer Garner

2005-01-18T17:09:00.000-05:00

I think Jennifer Garner was by far the prettiest at the Golden Globes. I don't know who she's wearing here but oooh so lovely.

ps: I'm biased.

pink

2005-01-17T19:58:00.000-05:00

Looking for a quick mood-booster, I headed over to NeimanMarcus.com and came across some beautifully delicate pink pieces. As a saucy brunette I've always admired that almost dusty, antique shade of pink. It helps me recall my innocence or rather creates some wonderful delusions...

Here's what I would like someone to buy for me:

by Chloe

by D&G

by Tracy Reese

travel, travel

2005-01-16T02:44:00.000-05:00

How is it that I find myself on an overnight excursion and I've managed to pack five tops?

It's quite silly really but I simply am THE worst packer in the history of people packing things.

I once lugged a four piece sound system (in my suitcase) to the Royal York for a one night stay and somehow I forgot my goggles (lunettes) and I didn't even like any of the outfits I brought with me. I don't think there is help for people like me.

the do's & don'ts of dating the dj

2005-01-14T18:31:00.000-05:00

I am feeling rather Viceland-ish today and thought I'd create my own little list of do's and don'ts for the girl who has wound up on the arm of the DJ. I've dated a couple in my short existence and there are plenty of oddly sticky situations that you will encounter.

DO show up to his big night as he of course wishes you to be his biggest fan. But DON'T feel obligated to show up when he does and spend your entire evening there (especially if you have class in the morning or even worse, a job).

If you choose to linger, DON'T spend the entire night hovering 'round the booth as you will inevitably distract him and cause him to f**k up. That is his worst nightmare.

DO socialize with his supporters and employers. This will look good on you and he'll know he doesn't need to babysit you.

DON'T be catty with his female supporters. Yes they are b*tches and have no right to grab his ass while requesting a song but you must be their better. And trust me, they'll be eating their hearts out later when they see you leaving with him.

DON'T get moody when he spends most of the night mingling with people you've never met - it is part of his job.

DO offer to stick around until he's done (if you have no morning commitments). He'll love you for carrying his vinyl. Just don't drop it.

And DO request your favourite song as chances are he'll actually play it for you.

through with cool

2005-01-13T13:03:00.000-05:00

If you're in the Toronto area visit the Chelsea room tonight as my bf and his friends are dj-ing tonight. Obviously, it will be great.

another birthday wish

2005-01-13T01:58:00.000-05:00

I know I'm jumping the gun a bit here as my birthday is still two and a half months away (Pinkmirage & I will be 21 in March!) but this is my latest addition to my birthday wishlist:

Isn't she stunning? And at a mere $1200 USD, I'm sure in a couple years you'll pay off that bill. Just think of all the Visa points you will amass making my dreams come true.

You can visit her at Gucci

guy time

2005-01-12T16:28:00.000-05:00

My descent into full girly blog journalism continues as I was reminded this afternoon about the difference in time perception between lasses & lads in regards to one another.

Example: Your boyfriend goes away for a while (whether it be charity overseas or partying in hipster meccas) and doesn't call because he's busy and when he gets back he's not in a rush to find you. Obviously, you think he couldn't care less about you.

And this is where guy time comes in. Apparently in guy time, it's only been about two seconds for him. There's lots of time to call you and see you. But in girl time, it's been a few years and you're probably pissed.

Why must it be like this? Granted, I should have come to these conclusions in high school like every other girl but I was a dateless wonder in high school. Clearly I've blossomed since (and how!) but I'm still getting used to this part.

I don't know why it has to be difficult like this. I think sometimes I understand guys less and less. And I think the more inherently feminine you are, the worse off you'll be in trying to understand them.

The more I pick up my InStyle, the more I'm thinking, "Why the f**k don't you call me?"

I bet she's waiting for her date to show up...

have some Dessert

2005-01-12T01:19:00.000-05:00

My ABSOLUTE favourite lip gloss right now is from Jessica Simpson's line, Dessert. Every item in the line tastes and smells sumptuous. It's all edible and clearly aimed at recreational use, but even if you're alone you'll have fun tasting your own lips. I have her "deliciously kissable plumping lip fragrance gloss" in "luscious" (which, by the by, is THE best flavour as it is a buttercream frosting flavour...). As a testament to this fragrance gloss' tastiness, my vegetarian, oddly anti-sweets boyfriend couldn't resist my lips after I put it on. Clearly, I cannot wait to get every single thing she has to offer.

Suprisingly, Toronto just got a Sephora store. The Dessert line is one of my favourites there along with Hard Candy & Cargo. Sephora is what I would imagine Heaven to be like if I were a Christian.

This is what I want for my birthday:

eat dessert here

trend whore

2005-01-11T18:29:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that the appeal of keeping a fashion blog is beginning to overtake me but I have not the time (nor the genius) to come up with something comparable to what is already out there. At least not at this particular time. I haven't come across a fashion blog with a Toronto slant just yet. I may just be the right authority for such a device...
Actually, that idea has got me excited. Maybe if I'm a good girl and do my reading on the Northern Renaissance, I'll whip one up...

Jan Van Eyck was here...

over-sleeped

2005-01-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

My roommate Nevena helped me rearrange my entire room last night so as to optimize it's organization...So my bed is now in the apse of my room (yes, I have an apse in the west) with my desk & dresser on either side. It's a bit of a tight fit where the desk is concerned but luckily I'm a tiny girl.

Morgan commented last night that because of the position the bed is in, all we have to look at is all of my clothes & storage instead of the nice art above my desk. It does kind of suck...but maybe this way I'll keep that area tidy.

The apsal-bed layout works though because now I don't hear anything & everything that everyone is doing in this damned house. I didn't wake up when everyone left for work this morning...it was nice.

I made this picture last night in honour of this new blog:

new year, new blog

2005-01-10T01:10:00.000-05:00

My friend Yang sent me a link to her new blog today and I must admit, I was quite envious.

After many years I have decided to lay to rest my livejournal and exercize this "blogger" deal. It's pretty seamless...I'm liking it a great deal so far.

I wrote this great post a minute ago but I accidentally deleted it and now I don't have the energy to retype my personal revelations.

So here is a picture from New Year's at the El Mocambo for Ukula.