Canadian | Style Blog

Holidays 2011: Last Minute Gifts from The Bay

Back in July, I attended The Bay’s Holiday 2011 Preview, showcasing amazing gift ideas for the holidays. Now that the holiday season is actually upon us…and Christmas is but 6 days away, I thought I’d share some last-minute gifts that you can easily pick up at The Bay store near you. From colorful Toy Watches, to Lucia mini soaps, to Polaroid cameras, to all things HBC Signature (coats, doggy sweaters, snowman kits, travel pillows…), you can find a gift for anyone and everyone! Seriously, these beat any gift that you can find at the gas station on Christmas morning. Hands. Down.

As for me…I think I might actually be done! Started a bit late this year, but nevertheless, have managed to pick up prezzies for everyone on my list. Feels good to be done. And if you’re still searching, shopping, and trying not to lose any remaining bits of holiday cheer (and sanity) - I wish you short line-ups, huge discounts, and bundles of patience. You’ll need it.

For more gift ideas, check out our Gift Guides!

More photos after the jump!

What I Wore: Tweed and Snakeskin

Finally got to take a photo of my new obsession – no, not the Joe Fresh snakeskin shirt (even though I do looove it). My new obsession is this simple, classic, and (me thinks) flattering tweed skirt from JACOB. It fits like a dream, looks great at the office, but doesn’t make me feel like I should be picking up my kids from soccer practice. You know what I mean? It’s still youthful, and work-appropriate…and I oh-so-love it!

Speaking of JACOB! In case you didn’t know, the store is having a Christmas Stocking Promotion! There are $290,000 in instant prizes (stuff like a wardrobe full of JACOB clothes, valued at $10,000!) to be won at check-out at any store – all you have to do is print out a Christmas stocking from their site.

And if that wasn’t enough of an incentive, for each stocking brought in store, JACOB will donate $1 to Goodwill and Renaissance, non-profit organizations whose mission is to facilitate the social and occupational reintegration of women experiencing difficulties. For an additional chance to win a $10,000 wardrobe, all you have to do is share it with some friends. Sharing is caring, right? You can enter here: http://surprisesjacob.ca. And if you end up winning, don’t forget to share the love!

I Wore: Shirt – Joe Fresh; Skirt – Jacob; Necklace – Forever21; Leggings – Target; Boots – Proenza Schouler (The Room); Bag – Prada

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Style Blog, December 16th 2011 | Tags: Canadian, Forever21, Freebies, Good Cause, Goodwill, Holidays, Holidays 2011, Jacob, Joe Fresh, Prada, Proenza Schouler, Shopping, Target, The Bay, The Room, What I Wore
Posted in Fashion, Freebies, Shopping, What I Wore

Shopping: Ela Spring 2012 Collection

I’ve been a huge fan of Ela Handbags ever since I’d met Ela Kowalewska and Martin Aldorsson at Lainey Gossip’s Smut Soiree earlier this year, and since then have been seeing her gorgeous pieces everywhere I looked. And for good reason – from the stylish (and practical) M.I.L.C.K. Clutch (starts at $280), to the lovely Lady Bag (starts at $480) - all Ela Handbags are designed and made in Canada, using highest quality Italian materials (aka the best of both worlds).

Last month, the ladies (and gentleman) of Ela Handbags stopped by my blog office…errmm…table at Marche, to bring their travelling Spring 2012 trunk show to me (sweet, non?). And though I already liked the gorgeous Ela clutches, after being introduced to the poppy bright colors of the upcoming collection – it was no longer casual…it was love.

Ela Handbags Spring 2012 Collection is full of colors, suede, and happiness. I dare you to pick just one! Double dare you, actually! Right now, I’m hemming and hawing between cobalt blue, fuchsia, red, and yellow. Or maybe orange…or purple. I think I might need help. Which one would you choose?

To see more photos from Ela Handbags’ Spring 2012 Collection Preview, please visit our Facebook Page.

Photo Credits: Kaeru Communications

OBJECT by George Antonopoulos for Danier Spring 2012 Preview

The wait is finally over! Last week, I attended the Spring 2012 preview of OBJECT by George Antonopoulos for Danier Leather!!! And please excuse the higher than normal number of exclamation points in this post – but if you couldn’t tell that I am excited about this one, well, now you certainly can…because George…he’s done it again!

As promised, OBJECT Spring 2012 collection was full of color, classic silhouettes, and this time, not only leather, but also suede! At the preview, I once again found myself oohing, aahing, and making mental lists of what I MUST BUY once the collection hits the stores. Some of my must-buys included a grey suede shift dress, perforated suede tank top, blue (!) leather (!!) pants (!!!), pink leather skirt, brown leather shorts, yellow leather/suede combo dress, and finally one of those amazing oversized clutches in bright orange. Judging by the high quality of OBJECT Fall 2011, I know that these pieces won’t disappoint even the pickiest of shoppers, and judging by how fast the inaugural collection sold out, you too should start making your spring shopping list right now.

Overall, I found OBJECT Spring 2012 to be very wearable, modern and trendy, yet classic enough to be worn season after season. It was a definite departure from the moody blacks and greys of Fall 2011, but a welcome one at that – who wouldn’t want to inject some color into their spring wardrobe? And if like some of my readers, you missed out on the last collection, make sure to keep tuning in, as I will try to update you on when this collection will be available in stores.

What do you think of OBJECT by George Antonopoulos Spring 2012? Are there any pieces that you can’t wait to get your hands on? Share in the comments.

Check out more photos from the preview on our Facebook page!

LG Fashion Week: Pink Tartan Spring 2012

I can’t believe it’s almost December, and I am still posting LGFW reviews! At least, as with other spring previews, it gives you (and me) something to look forward to this winter. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

So, on to Pink Tartan Spring 2012. French tunes leading the way, attendees were in for a Riviera-inspired treat. Chic black and white frocks, striped jackets, and cigarette pants were all perfect for trotting the streets of Nice, looking like you belong.

My favorite pieces included anything striped (obviously), shiny red (or blue) pants (so fun!), and dresses that looked office-appropriate, yet dressy enough for a night out on the town (best combo ever).

Overall, Pink Tartan Spring 2012 certainly wasn’t a groundbreaking collection, but I loved it nonetheless. Most pieces had a timeless feel (save for the shiny red pants) that I’ve been needing to infuse into my own wardrobe. In my opinion, the more wearable, modern classics, the better.

What do you think of Pink Tartan’s spring collection? Let me know in the comments.

Photo Credits: Jenna Marie Wakani via Toronto Life

Shopping: Joe Fresh Holidays 2011

Have you seen the latest Joe Fresh lookbook photos? They are so fun and colorful – my two favorite things. Right now, I am coveting the above hand-beaded mini in blue or yellow, the black and white striped skirt, and a python-print button-up. These would be just perfect for my glam holiday cravings.

What do you think about these pics? Share in the comments.

Photo Credits: Joe Fresh

LG Fashion Week: Caroline Neron Spring 2012

Even though I got to check out Caroline Neron’s Spring 2012 LGFW pre-show walkthrough, nothing could prepare me for the joy that was about to follow. The joy of a campy, yet gorgeous spectacle of floating chiffon, cascading body jewels, and ethereal headpieces, with models sauntering and gliding down the runway - giving Victoria’s Secret models a run for their money.

“Spring/Summer 2012 collection emerges from the divine nature of water, air and earth. Silk, leather, wood, metal and crystals come to life in a modern and sophisticated alliance, designed by Bijoux Caroline Neron“. As I shared with one of the ladies at the show - this is how I want to look at my wedding – dripping in diamonds, while a wind machine gently tousles my hair. Ok, not really…but the look of a shimmering goddess was so tempting, that I seriously wished I had more occasions for this kind of opulence.

As some of you already know, I am a huge fan of Caroline Neron’s jewellery line. The one piece by Neron that I own, never fails to get me a compliment, and a “where did you get it?”. Well, pretty soon, the brand will have 14 stores across Quebec, with plans to expand across Canada and internationally (in 2012-2013), so more people can get in on the action. And after attending her Spring 2012 show, I seriously cannot wait until we (the shopaholics of Toronto) get a store of our own.

For the video of the show (and trust me, you want to see it), please go to the FDCC website. Enjoy!

Rehearsal photos after the jump!

Style Fille: Julia Seidl

Today’s Style Fille is a lovely Canadian stylist/blogger/Jane-of-all-trades – Julia Seidl of Stylehog.com. I met Julia at one of the many blogging events (what feels like ages ago), and I’ve been admiring her style ever since. This photo was taken at the Barbara Bui event at The Room, and I absolutely loved the simplicity of her chic ensemble – it literally looks like she just threw it on without much thought, and came out looking like a million bucks! Well done, Style ~~Hog~~ Fille!

What do you think of Julia’s effortlessly chic look? Share in the comments.

Shopping: STYLEXCHANGE | Little Burgundy

Last week, STYLEXCHANGE and Little Burgundy held an awesome Original vs. Fake party to preview their new arrivals, as well as Spring 2012 collections. Guests were treated to an abundant candy bar, stocked with my fave bad candy ever – Charleston Chew! So artificial, yet so delicious. Apart from the candy bar, there were fun moustaches and wax lips to play with, fake eyelashes to bat, DJ Miss Cotton from NYC spinning clubby tunes, and of course…a lot of eye candy for the shopaholics in attendance.

What I learned that night, is that Little Burgundy is chock-full of amazing shoes! With brands like Ash, Jeffrey Campbell, Hunter, TOMS, Dolce Vita, and so many more, the selection is straight up heavenly. You literally cannot choose just one pair…and I am still drooling over a few Spring 2012 pairs myself.

But it’s not all about the shoes at STYLEXCHANGE…obviously. The store carries Canadian outerwear brands like Mackage, Numero, Pajar, Moose Knuckles, and Canada Goose, making it a prime destination for winter coat shopping. And has a vast selection of denim, from Blank Jeans, to Hudson Jeans, to True Religion, to Miss Sixty, to J Brand for both guys and girls. Finally, a shop you can ~~drag~~ bring your boyfriend to, without feeling guilty that he’d be bored.

Have you ever shopped at STYLEXCHANGE | Little Burgundy? What are your favorite brands at the store? Share in the comments.

More photos after the jump!

Giveaway: One of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale

One of a Kind Christmas Show 2011 is coming to town at the end of the month, and I seriously cannot wait to check out my favorite artisans, and to discover some new ones. Especially, since this year, I am all about collecting unique trinkets for our wedding. If you are on a hunt for amazing Christmas gifts, I know you’ll be able to find them at the One of a Kind Show! Seriously, that place is a gold mine (of presents). And to help you out, I will be giving away a pair of tickets to the 2011 Christmas Show and Sale in Toronto to one lucky reader!

Here’s what you have to do to win:

1. Leave a comment (1 per person, please)

2. Tell me which artisan(s) have you intrigued

3. For extra entries, please RT the following: “@styleblogca I’d love to win @OOAK_Toronto tickets! http://wp.me/p1WxbY-3bL #OOAKX11”

4. You don’t have to be a follower, but it’s always appreciated

5. This giveaway is open to Canadians only. Transportation to and from Toronto not included.

6. C’est tout

~~This contest closes on Thursday, November 10th at 11:59pm. Good luck!~~

And the winner of a pair of tickets is…drumroll…JennC! Congrats!!! I seriously wish I could give each and every one of you a pair of tickets, but if you didn’t win this time, check back, as our Style Days of Christmas are starting, and you really wouldn’t want to miss it!

LG Fashion Week: Joe Fresh Spring 2012 Collection

If I had to use one word to describe the Joe Fresh Spring 2012 collection it would be…awesomesauce. Because it was!

I know that I mostly stand alone, when I say that summer is my fave fashion season. Most people prefer fall with its abundant layering possibilities, but for me, especially in mostly fall-less Toronto, summer clothes rule! Which is why, although I loved last season’s Technicolor neoprene coats (which should be available this month btw), my fave Joe Fresh collection to date is Spring-Summer 2012.

So what caught my eye? Almost everything. But especially the honeymoon-appropriate breezy dresses (which I sincerely hope will be available come May – fingers crossed), the fancy pants that I so dearly love, classic black and white essentials with a twist (leather collared white shirt, anyone?), and fun menswear pieces.

Come to think of it, those printed menswear pants and blazers were so damn good, that I actually wish that they’d made similar versions for the ladies. But given the great womenswear selection, I’m not one to complain. I’ll happily take those green and blue printed pants instead, thankyouverymuch.

Overall, I loved the Joe Fresh Spring 2012 collection! Lots of fun pieces to dream about all through this cold and dreary season. And at Joe Fresh prices? You know you’ll be able to buy it all. Off the runway, and into your closet, without having to take out a second mortgage. And that, my friends, is awesomesauce!

Do you like what you see? Share your thoughts on this collection in the comments.

Photo Credits: Jenna Marie Wakani via Toronto Life

Wishlist: HBC Canadian Olympic Team Replica Apparel

Earlier this week, HBC unveiled its 2012 Official Canadian Olympic Team replica apparel…and I want it all! Especially the three pieces above: denim jacket with Canadiana patches, the 2012 version of this Cowichan sweater, and of course a pair of red mittens to show my rah-rah patriotic support (and to keep my mitts warm!).

I really can’t get enough of those retro patches. I would seriously wear this jacket all the time! Not to mention every time I travel…which is soon! Ok, I just decided…gotta get this jacket stat, before they are all gone! So much for my spending ban.

Have you had a chance to take a look at The Bay’s selection of Olympicswear yet? If so, what are your fave pieces?

More photos after the jump!

LG Fashion Week: Sears Attitude by Jay Manuel Spring 2012

My very first LGFW show of the season ended up being Attitude by Jay Manuel. Having skipped Day 1, I was really looking forward to hitting the tents, and soaking up the excitement and the buzz surrounding each show. And was there ever buzz for Jay’s Spring 2012 collection! There were rumours that Tyra Banks was planning an appearance, that ANTM model-wannabes were going to be strutting their stuff…there were rumours, but none of them were true.

Instead, we got to see a solid summer collection, full of covetable resortwear pieces, separates for the working girls (not those working girls), and lovely prints. Styled by the multi-talented George Antonopoulos, the show was cohesive, and actually a lot of fun (complete with dry ice, and a psychedelic runway). And though I wasn’t a fan of Jay’s Fall 2011 effort, this collection had me ooh-ing, and aah-ing (and making wishlists) all through the show. Printed pieces had me at hello, as did the pink pants (above), and the sleek trenches. But the object of my desire this time around was definitely the printed jumpsuit (below)! I hope it looks as good on me, as it does on that leggy model.

So tell me, did you like Jay Manuel’s Spring 2012 collection? Share in the comments.

Photo Credits: Jenna Marie Wakani via Toronto Life

Toronto Fashion Week: Greta Constantine Spring 2012 Collection

It feels like just yesterday, I was excitedly waiting for the Greta Constantine Spring 2012 show to start (fashionably late, of course), anticipating the next slew of gorgeous frocks that I will be sure to covet. Was it worth the wait? Most definitely!

So what should you anticipate next spring? Vivid jewel tones, moody greys, blacks, and whites, as well as the designers’ signature draping, ruching, Grecian silhouettes…and leather! Surprisingly for me, although I really liked the colorful jersey dresses, the ones that stood out this time, were the simpler monochromatic pieces. Wrapped in those gorgeous leather vests, skirts, and shrugs, you get what I can only describe as urban warrior princess’ uniform. A mix of fierceness, and vulnerability.

As always, Kirk and Stephen did not disappoint, and showcased a beautiful, wearable collection, for a modern woman. And this modern woman would like one of each, please and thank you.

What do you think of Greta Constantine Spring 2012 collection? Is it something you’d love to wear? Let me know in the comments.

Photo Credits: Jenna Marie Wakani via Toronto Life

Ashley Rowe Sample Sale!

Remember that dress I wore for Flare’s Wear Canada Blogger Edition? Well, it was by a Canadian designer Ashley Rowe, who is hella talented. And if you were looking to inject some Canadian style into your wardrobe, you’re in luck. Ashley Rowe will be holding a sample sale/pop-up shop on November 3rd – 5th at 198 Walnut Ave in Toronto. And we hear, the deals are going to be amazing…aka nothing over $100! Sounds damn good to me! See you there?

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