Sex and the City!!

I am so excited about the Sex and the City movie on Friday. It's probably so overrated, but I can't get enough of it. SJP looked.. nice.. at the NYC premiere today. All other things aside, she would have rocked it (although I wasn't loving the hair & make-up, the gown by Nina Ricci was gorgeous). I thought she would have gone sexier though. But who the hell thought it would be Jennifer Hudson showing her up at her own movie?? JHud does have a small part in the film though so hey, she had a right to shine. Her style choices just keep getting better with time. Tonight's choice was a body hugging Peter Soronen. She really knows her body and what makes it look best (whoever's styling her does anyways). The colour is amazing on her. I'm loving the new hair cut. The belt is perfectly cinching in her waist. And love the shoes! There's nothing about this look that I don't like. Even her make up is flawless. I'm not even gonna talk about her two prominent "accessories".. Damn mama, do your thing.

*Update*

Here's Jennifer still looking lovely at the SATC after-party (thanks to concreteloop.com for the picture):

Style Star

I don't usually write about men's fashion because it's not really my forte, but since some of the style conscious men in my life are too shy to do a guest entry, I thought I would try it. This wasn't a conscious decision, but rather one that was inspired in my sociology class, of all places.

Now I'm not saying University of Toronto students are not fashionable, but.. let's just say that there's a lot of sameness on campus. I must admit though that some of the younger girls have made things a little interesting - but this isn't about females. Guys on campus don't even seem to try (sorry boys). So I was really impressed when I saw Jordan DeWitt sitting in my lecture hall.

It definitely helps that this political science major is tall and pretty easy on the eyes, but his ensemble was so fresh and so not Toronto that I had to share. He reminded me of summer vacation in the Hampton's, maybe? Resort wear is on the top of my list for girls so it was pretty cool to see a guy rocking this laid-back look. Definitely makes a guy stand out in a sea of baggy pants and t-shirts (btw, why haven't they gotten the memo that tailored is the way to go?).

The graphic tee and sport coat are old news. If you don't own these items and you're a man then you're way out of the loop. But the white pants, genius. Very in this spring. The slip on canvas shoes are back this spring/summer as well. Add a fedora for some fun, and you've got a great look. I love the splash of colour and "funkiness" that it brings to this white and black outfit. That's where his personal style really shines. I wouldn't say this is universal by any means (read: I'm not recommending this outfit to all guys), but Jordan serves as my first style star because he reminds me that men's fashion can actually be pretty interesting, and dare I say, fun.

More Retro

Rihanna isn't the only celebrity to make a hot retro fashion statement. Only God must know how Alicia Keys got "in those jeans" so to speak, but she is my celebrity pick for best coloured denim.

Picture from thederrtytruth.com

For some reason, tourquoise seems to be the favoured colour among celebrities, but I actually really like the light purple jeans as seen on Jessica Alba below.

Although I didn't buy any myself while in New York, I'm loving the look. It's been around since at least last summer, but it's showing some endurance since it hasn't really hit mainstream yet. I just hope that girls won't flood the street with them this summer, effectively giving this trend the kiss of death. I really think that this is one style that people will hesistate on, at least in Toronto, so if you're the bold fashion-forward type, get yours early.

You can find a variety of colours at american apparel (above) for $75, which I feel is a little pricey for the brand, especially for some jeans you may be packing (read: throwing) away as early as next summer. But you can also try these Erika super skinnys (below) for only $38.30 at Forever 21. They also have the Danica style if you prefer a slightly looser fit.

Also, these jeans are selling at Sirens for only $25.50. Sirens' Seduction jeans are the best fit for skinny's in my opinion. They are super stretchy, so they're comfortable, and they hold out pretty good. They offer both the really tight fit, and the more straight leg fit. So if you can stand to not be so label conscious, I definitely recommend that you pick up a pair and save your money for bigget ticket items.

And We're Back..

I've gotten some complaints about the lack of posting, and upon seeing the date of my last post, I am actually a little shocked. So I apologize for being MIA. But I promise that you're in store for some great stuff. I just got back from a trip to New York, which was amazing! I must say though, Toronto has definitely stepped up its fashion game vis-a-vis New York in my opinion. The prices were good, but not crazy good. And the styles were pretty much the same, although there's a huge army trend in NY right now. Perfect time to introduce my military jacket that I got for $16 at Kensington market this past winter! More on that later.. The best deals were definitely on the shoes. And lo and behold I found the Reebok Kool-Aids, but mine was the ONLY size they didn't have. They were only $50 (!) if I remember correctly. But I have some new loves. These Nikes that my cuz bought - neon (various colours) and black. They are ridiculous. I also got a new cam, which means it's about to get real personal around here. I'm loving this summer..

Besides the army, the next biggest trend in the NY stores were coloured jeans. The 80's/early 90's are really making a comeback aren't they?
I'm not so sure that I can get down with the obnoxious bamboo gold earrings (yet..they're growing on me), but I think that a little retro is a good thing. Please note that when it comes to the retro look, a little goes a long way. I've seen it done to the extreme at some of these retro/sneaker parties, but I'm really interested to see how the look will be updated for today, in a way that's less costume-y. I pick Rihanna as the style leader in this category, with the below nod to the 90's. The hair, the scarf, and the yellow/purple combination are subtle, but sufficient. Remember, the idea isn't to look like you were in a time machine, it's to take elements of the past and incorporate them into today's fashion.

If you like Rihanna's style, try one of these banana flavoured jackets to get yourself started:

Liz Claiborne $84.99

Guess $88.00

Honourable Mention

Somehow Thandie Newton in this stunning Chanel dress slipped through the cracks when I was reviewing the costume gala. I mean, are you kidding me? I love Thandie's style, as ecclectic as it may be, and I think she's a beautiful woman. Chanel does it again.

The MET Costume Institute Gala 2008: Superheroes Theme

I'm a little late on this one, I know. So even if you've seen these pictures, I still need to make my opinions on the gala known. And without further adieu, here are my pics for best dressed:

Christina Ricci definitely came out on top for me. I thought she looked absolutely amazing in this pink and red Givenchy dress. I've been in LOVE with this girl's style for quite some time now. I know that she gets some respect in the fashion world, but I think she is one of the most underrated "fashionista types" in Hollywood. Look at that clutch! It seals the deal for me. Bonus points for dressing the theme! A++

Gisele Bundchen. I mean damn. She's wearing Versace *heart*. That's all I have to say. I once questioned how hot this girl was. I take it all back and repent for my sins.

Eva Longoria looked ravishing in this plum Marchessa gown. Isn't it gorgeous? I noticed that not many seemed enthused with her choice, but I think it's a beautiful dress. The rouching is so well done. And how amazing does she look in it? It really comes close to rivaling Ms. Ricci's dress for me. But Christina wins with style points.

I will forgive Diane Kruger for the beehive hair (it's 2008!) because that dress is beautiful. And it's Chanel! Oh how I love Chanel. The designs are just so feminine and really beautiful in a classical way. A woman just can't not feel glamorous in Chanel. And I love the pairing with the bright pink heels (I guess she does know it's 2008). I also love that she brought Pacey! That was a genius pairing also :)

And look, it's Joey! Katie Holmes is really growing on me. She has absolutely no personality, but she can put together a mean outfit. I loved her Wonder Woman inspired choice. I don't necessarily love this Armani dress, but the hair, the shoes, and the fact that it's on theme does make it one of my favourite looks of the night. Posh better watch out. Looks like the student is now schooling the teacher (hated Victoria's dress).

Ziyi Zhang looked perfect in her black Armani gown. This was my personal favourite Armani to hit the red carpet. The intricate design is lovely, and Ziyi looks so adorable in it. Isn't she a cutie? Black really works for her although people love to grown about black on the red carpet. She worked it out.

Last, but not least, is Michelle Trachtenberg in vintage Yves St Laurent. She looks stunning and so sophisticated. It's a much simpler look than the extravagant gowns opted for by many of the attendees, and I think it works really well. She looks like a Greek goddess. I love the little beaded clutch and the gold sandals also. You can't go wrong with gold. Love it!

So there you have it. I couldn't rank them because I really do love them all, and for different reasons, but let me know what you guys think of the picks. Also, if you think I've made a mistake and would like to make a nomination or lobby to get someone pulled from the list (how dare you undermine me by the way!) then feel free to leave a comment. Ciao for now.

As promised...Ed Hardy Swimwear

I excitedly mentionned my discovery of Ed Hardy swimwear a couple of entries back, but I'm undecided on my feelings.. sure I like the designs, but really it's just the t-shirt in swimsuit form. I did, however, think that Christina Milian in Ed Hardy swimwear made the suit something special. Maybe it's just her abs, or the fact that she's gorgeous, or the way she's wearing jewellery in the water (candid my ass), but it just looks right. So with that said, if Christina is not a spokesmodel for the brand, she should be!

What I do like about the suit is the edgy and casual style that it brings to beach. Most swimsuits tend to be overtly sexy whereas this one is more subtle. And when you have a body like that, you might hurt 'em with the sexy! Imagine dressing down a bathing suit - making it approachable and comfortable, but with style and sex appeal. I'm kind of into it. In fact, I've been looking at it for 10 minutes now and I actually really like it. As I mentionned before, I'm really into the sneakerhead look because they just know how to freak out an outfit. I've seen girls wear t-shirts with baggy jeans and ball shoes and look sexier than ever. It's just too fresh. Everything is coordinated down to the nail polish, hair colour, eyeglass lenses.. Street style is about taking the most normal pieces, putting them together, and making it look hot. It's about really knowing how to dress. I like that Ed Hardy is bringing that same spirit to the swimsuit.

What are your thoughts?? Cute or overrated?

Get it for Less

I'm loving the canvas bag look for the spring/summer season. Since everyone is concerned with "going green", this casual, dressed down, earthy look is all the rage (minus the bohemian influence). Yet even though this look is supposed to celebrate minimalism, it can still cost a pretty penny to look that casual. While some pieces can become wardrobe staples, it's not a good idea to spend too much on a trend that focuses on simplicity. Luckily for us, these types of trends are the easiest to "get it for less".

Exhibit A

InStyle Magazine: Rafe New York Floral Canvas Clutch (big clutches this spring ladies! if you don't know, now you know). Originally $245.00; now on sale for $146.99


MY Old Navy Burnt Orange Clutch Purse. Originally $14.99; on sale now for $6.99!

Sorry my pictures don't really do justice to the Old Navy bag...but don't be fooled by the magazine magic (i.e. great lighting) behind the Rafe bag! Trust me, the Old Navy clutch is just as cute, and you can decorate it with buttons (as above) or patches, or hell fabric paint, if you want. Just have some fun, be stylish, and save some cash.

A Guide to High-Waisted Denim

Apparently high-waisted jeans make your butt, thighs, and hips look huge. For some of us, that is good news! I know that the skinny bias in fashion is well-pronounced and that some women do not want to hear about the woes of the thin, but petite girls have troubles too! I hate the phrase “normal body types”, which is usually used to describe a woman who is thicker than model thin. But I’m a naturally small woman, and I consider my body type to be just as “normal” as anyone else’s. I hate that people attack the clothing that looks good on our body types, in favour of something more flattering to the “average” woman. One trend that has gone under attack recently is the high-waisted jean; and don’t get me started on the high-waisted SKINNY jean – that could get physical. Photo: Anna Sui S/S 2008.

But the truth is that individuals just need to learn to dress their body type! Whatever you look like, there is a style that is flattering to your body. Embrace that style, and work it. The offerings for "plus" sizes are growing everyday, and you’d be surprised what a little tailoring can do. I’m sick of these fashion critics saying that what looks good on the runway doesn’t always translate to real life. I personally love the high-waisted look, and when worn in the right way, by the right woman, it is hot.

For those who are considering the look, please take heed. Unless you’re tall and thin, the wide-legged look is not for you. You will end up looking like you’re wearing mom jeans, with a diaper. Try a tailored straight leg instead. Curvy women should try the style in a pair of trouser shorts or a fitted pencil skirt. It will take in your waist and accentuate your hips, giving you a lovely hourglass shape. On the other hand, to camouflage wide hips, choose a style with detailing on the front (buttons or pockets) to break up the wide piece of fabric. If you’re petite, then the high-waisted skinny jean is actually the perfect choice for you.

Above are some candids of two of my style icons, Kate Moss and Janet Han of GetJanet Productions, rocking this style. Cute right? So as a final note to you nay-sayers: the skinny and high-waisted jean are far from dead. Get over it.

Sale Reviews

Even though the rain threatened to ruin my shopping extravaganza, I did manage to make it downtown today. With the all-day rain, the fashion district was quiet, so that allowed me to take my time examining the various sales. Since it was pouring most of the day, I only stopped into a few shops. I made it a priority to hit up Jones and Vero Moda, who were both having samples sales. The sales were actually quite good! Jones is a smaller location so it was easier to rummage through the clothes. Vero Moda, however, had racks upon racks of clothing.

Both stores are European-owned and offer brands from all over the world. There was this amazing brazilian brand (the name slips my mind), but size small for them was like a large here, I swear. Everything I picked up looked like it was huge. That was my major problem today: finding things in my size. So ultimately, I left empty-handed. I must admit though, the prices varied widely. Most of the really cute stuff was in the $75-110 range, which isn't much of a deal, but there were many a reasonable priced item, especially at Jones.

I also got a chance to head over to the DC sample sale. I was wrong; it was not an equal opportunity sale. The men's side was MUCH better. For the girls, there were a few Ed Hardy shirts, and that was about it for tops. The denim options were much better, but most were in the $95 range. Of course, these were on jeans that retail for $200, so in context, that's a deal. The men's side had a lot more to offer. In particular, I really liked the Affliction pieces that they had. I think I like it better than Ed Hardy if I may say something so blasphemous. Although, I recently saw some new Ed Hardy swimsuits that are super cute...especially on Christina Milian! Will post soon.

I just missed RYE market, unfortunately. I made it out to the Trilogy booth for a bit, and then it really started to pour so everyone started packing up. My cute little leopard flats were completely soaked! All in all, I give my big sale weekend a B-, even though I didn't buy anything.

But some good news! Yours truly was stopped to take a picture for another fashion blog. How cool is that? Will post a link once the pictures are up. So excited!

Prada Fever

I've been on hand bag watch lately, and I think I may have found the most gorgeous bag of the season already. Surprisingly, it's from Prada. I mean, Prada makes great bags, but I've just never been that into them (and not just because of the price tag!). But their new nappa leather striped purses and wallets, especially the multi-coloured sets are so fun and they just scream spring. So for now, I have donned this THE must-have bag for the spring. Unfortunately, the small hobo bag, featured at the left, carries a $1495 price tag, available at Saks. It's still nice to dream though, right?

Queen Street West Sales Starting Today

Click the flyers for details