Fall 2010

Zara November 2010 Lookbook – Evening Collection

30 November, 2010 Nelia

Ok, so even though I am on a strict self-imposed no-purchases-until-after-Christmas shopping ban, I couldn’t help but long for a few of the items in this Zara Evening Collection lookbook. Namely the red shift and the lovely rosette dress.

Though with my luck (or lack thereof), both items will probably be sold out by the time I venture out to the store. But if you’re still looking for something fun to wear this Holiday season, perhaps Zara is worth checking out this month? What do you think?

Photo Credits: Zara

Pink Martini Fall 2010

9 November, 2010 Nelia

Have you heard about Pink Martini? Until a few weeks ago, I had no idea what that brand was. Strange, considering its popularity in the US. Luckily, I was invited to check out Pink Martini’s Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 collections at their showroom.

What I found, were racks upon racks of fun, wearable designs with lovely detailing. And though I can only share a tiny sneak peek of Spring 2011 collection with you (all the way at the end), you can check out some of the coats I got to play with.

My favorite coat was definitely the yellow one in the first pic: super cozy, with an adorable bow detailing at the back, and a cute hood – this coat is sure to keep its owner happy and warm all through the fall. I also adored the chunky knits, including some colorful circle scarves, and wraparound sweaters that I did not want to take off.

Keep an eye on Pink Martini, lovelies, come spring, you’ll fall in love with their beautiful cocktail dresses, funky rompers, and intricate tops…oh, my!

What I Wore: Unbelt My Heart

14 October, 2010 Nelia

These photos were taken a while ago, actually. Back when wearing a jacket wasn’t really necessary, but I did it anyway, because I missed wearing jackets, after an entire jacket-less summer. I got this one from Gap a few years back on sale, and I’ve loved it ever since. Military is, of course, a pretty big trend this fall, but I like this jacket in particular because it fits so damn well, it’s lightweight and comfy, even when I don’t have to wear a jacket. Is that confusing you? Sorry, it’s been a tiring week.

Also, I think this was the first time I ever wore a belt with a jacket. I kinda liked it aesthetically, but it’s the most awkward thing when you have to take off your belt in order to take off your coat inside a sushi restaurant. I mean, it actually felt as if I was taking off my pants, or something. And then, once the belt is off, where do you put it??? Do you just hang it on the back of your chair? Or do what I did, and roll it up in a ball, and stuff it hurriedly into a jacket pocket? I don’t know the rules of jacket+belt wearing, but I do know that perhaps in order to avoid seeming gauche, it’s best to just keep the darned jacket+belt combo on the entire time? What do you think?

What I Wore: Plaid Shirt, Belt – H&M; Long Tank Top – Forever21; Leggings – Aritzia; Boots – Zara; Jacket – Gap; Bag – Prada; Sunglasses – Ray Ban

Yorkdale Shopping Centre Fall 2010 Campaign

8 October, 2010 Nelia

It seems just yesterday, I found out that I, along with nine other lucky ducks, won Yorkdale’s Yorkdale is Me contest! It was an awesome and memorable journey, and it was an honor to be able to participate in the mall’s Spring 2010 campaign. Well, it is spring no longer, and Yorkdale’s Fall 2010 campaign is now out – and I love it so hard!

The thing that definitely drew me to these is their aesthetic. Totally inspired by Tommy Ton photos, no? Love that the campaign focuses on the many different styles and price points the Yorkdale stores carry. And since I’m an H&M junkie, I love that items from my fave store are featured a few times (can you spot them?). Overall, I find that these photos are very different from other malls’ advertisements, as well as compelling enough to make me want to go hunting shopping for those sweet camel-colored boots…now!

What do you think? Are you loving this campaign as much as I do? Let me know in the comments.

Photo Credits: Yorkdale

The Bay West End Shop Fall 2010 Menswear Preview

6 October, 2010 Nelia

Last week, The Bay unveiled Fall 2010 Menswear Designer collections at its West End Shop with a little help from Steve Yzerman and Alex Bilodeau. With brands like Hugo Boss, Armani Jeans, Diesel, Ben Sherman and many others, all neatly located on the second floor, The Bay on Queen St. has become a premier shopping destination for high-end brands. And who better to be the face of the shop, than the hockey legend Steve Yzerman himself?

When le boyfriend first heard that “Yzerman” was going to attend, there was no doubt he wasn’t going to miss out on this opportunity. And by the look of the lineup to shake hands with the former Red Wings captain, he wasn’t the only one.

After Brian Williams interviewed both Steve and Alex in front of the stylish attendees, both men helped pick out Hugo Boss and Strellson raffle winners (someone next to me was excitedly hoping to get the Hugo Boss suit Steve was wearing).

West End Shop itself is a large bright open space, full of well-displayed mix of brands – definitely a lovely spot to do some shopping for your guy, be it for casual clothes or high-end suits.

I love the recent overhaul The Bay has undergone, stores are getting renovated, layouts are easier to navigate, and with ever-expanding brand selections, the store is a pleasure to shop at. If you haven’t been recently, you really should see the difference for yourselves.

Sasha Pivovarova for H&M Magazine Fall 2010

24 September, 2010 Nelia

I went to H&M the other day (no surprise there), and picked up my copy of H&M Magazine. Truth be told, I do think that H&M Mag is oftentimes better than some “real” magazines out there – the stories are interesting, the clothes are affordable and accessible, and editorials, like this one with Sasha Pivovarova, are inspiring and super wearable. I want to copy almost every single look in this spread, and it isn’t difficult, since most pieces are already in my closet.

Do you read H&M Magazine? Do you like it? Share in the comments.

Photo Credits: H&M

Shopping: First Dr. Martens Store in Canada

24 September, 2010 Nelia

Fall is upon us, and just like many others, I am embarking on a new footwear search. This year I vowed to buy something practical for Toronto winters, something sensible, with a stylish kick. And after visiting Canada’s first standalone Dr. Martens store at 391 Queen St. West, I think my search is over.

The shop’s walls are lined top to bottom with different styles and colors of the iconic grunge-fave shoe, and the whole feel is like being in a candy shop – just take your pick. There are girly shoes – with floral and paisley designs (my fave), the “originals”, the “Made in Britain” pairs, and some not-so-Doc looking Doc Martens. I was also told that most styles available worldwide will be sold at the Toronto store…all neatly lined up under one roof.

I also got to see the Spring 2011 lineup of Docs, which included the below pony hair leopard print styles, which I believe were made in collaboration with Opening Ceremony, some cute pastel ones…even gladiator wedge Docs! It’s pretty safe to say, that if you’re looking for a specific pair of Dr. Martens shoes, the Queen St. store will have them.

Most shoes retail between $100-$200, which is not a high price to pay for a comfy, well-made, classic boot. The company is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, so make sure to pop by and say “Happy Birthday!”.

Shopping: Fall 2010 Essentials

21 September, 2010 Nelia

Here in Canada, we’ve been royally spoiled this summer – endless summer days, warm patio nights, trips to the lake, and finally some sort of resemblance of a tan! I don’t think we’ve ever had a summer this amazing! But as they say, eventually all good things come to an end. And here we are, going into another fall season, pretty hopeless after completely blocking out what it feels like to walk through slush and hurricane-like freezing winds (or is it just me?).

So in order to get excited about the inevitable chill, I thought I’d share some of my Fall 2010 Essentials with all of you (if you want to see my Fall 2009 essentials, click here). Read about them after the jump!

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Billabong Fall 2010 Preview

2 September, 2010 Nelia

Billabong – the name is almost synonymous with surfer clothing, no? Apparently – wrong. After attending Fall 2010 preview at the Yorkdale store last week, I realized that Billabong not only caters to surfer dudes, it has a fashionable side as well!

The first thing that caught my eye as I entered the store was a multi-color Portola cardiganwith fringe detailing – a super amazing boho piece, perfect for wrapping oneself during the cold winter nights. I knew I had to have it. Throughout the store, I spotted a few other cozy-looking cardigans, faux leather jackets, super cute black dresses, and a ton of on-trend accessories. Wait, at Billabong? Yup, at Billabong.

Other than Billabong, The Yorkdale location carries brands such as Element, TOMS, Nixon, Von Zipper and Dakine.

And of course, there are rows of bikinis. Bikinis and shorts that are available all year-round. So if you’re looking for one in the middle of January, Billabong is definitely a safe bet.

For guys and boys, the collection seemed to be a bit more grown up from what I remember. There are still plenty of hoodies and t-shirts to go around, but there are also classy button-ups and sweaters available for the dressier occasions. Another cool thing that Billabong store carries is Saxx underwear. It’s pretty great to see a small company with a great idea represented at a bigger store. Plus, guys seem to looove Saxx. If you don’t believe me, get it for your man, and see him rave about the…ahem…extra support.

Overall, I was pretty impressed with the Fall 2010 collection, and having worn my new cardigan around the house, I can’t wait to take it out for a spin in the real world! I’m definitely packing it for my upcoming trip and will share some pics after I come back. You may see more Fall 2010 pieces on Style Blog’s Facebook Page HERE.

Now what about you, lovelies? Do you shop at Billabong? Let me know in the comments.

Huge thanks to Micki Benedetti for the invitation!

EDIT by Jeanne Beker Fall 2010 Preview

31 August, 2010 Nelia

We live in a world where celebrity clothing lines are dime a dozen. And while I have no idea who in their right mind would ever even consider buying something with Heidi Montag’s name on it, when The Bay invited me to attend an intimate preview of Jeanne Beker’s new clothing line EDIT, it really made sense. After all, Jeanne is an iconic figure of Canadian fashion with an immaculate sense of style and an immense knowledge of the industry – who better than her?

And though Jeanne didn’t design the collection herself (“I’m not a designer!” – she exclaimed), she did have a hand in editing the collection to create a selection of simple, yet timeless pieces, ranging in price from $79-$195 and sizes 2-16. There’s a classic pencil skirt, a structured blazer, crisp white button-up, ubiquitous LBD – all staples in any working woman’s closet. My favorite of all was the cozy cape ($195), that came in grey and camel colors – such a versatile and fun piece to rock for fall – definitely a must-have on my list. But EDIT is not just for the ladies at the office – available are also Jeanne Jeans and Jeanne Jeggings, with portion of sales going toward Dress for Success.

The launch of EDIT not-so-accidentally coincides with the 25-year anniversary of Fashion Television, which drove Jeanne to do something a bit more personal to share with the world. The collection consists of 25 pieces, and will be available at 65 Bay stores come September.

To see some of the looks modeled by Jeanne Beker herself, check out Style Blog’s Facebook page here.