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You Are Invited: TIFF Soirée with Michael Fassbender

30 August, 2016 Nelia

TIFF time is the best time to be in Toronto, and what better way to kick off the festival than at TIFF Soirée on September 7th with actor extraordinaire Michael Fassbender as the guest of honour?! In case you’re not familiar with what TIFF Soirée is all about, I asked maxine bailey, the Vice-President of Advancement for TIFF, to share her thoughts on what to wear to this gala and why TIFF Soirée is a not-to-be-missed event this September.

Q: What is your inspiration for this year’s TIFF Soirée Outfit?
A: Comfortable Glamour. Is that a thing? If it is, I’m going for it. TIFF Soirée is ALL about dressing up, but making sure my feet comfortably make it through the following 11 days. Lashes, big hair, sparkles and glitter, AND, comfy shoes. After all, this is the launch of our 41st Toronto International Film Festival and a fundraising gala to support our year-round outreach activities the other 354 days.
Q: Does the choice of a special guest influence your style decisions for the event?
A: I believe, most of the men and women in attendance, will be dressing for our fabulous guest of honour, Mr. Michael Fassbender. I mean, who wouldn’t. Mr. Fassbender makes you want to up the ante!

Q: What makes TIFF Soirée one of the best galas of the festival?
A: It’s a fantastic kick-off to the Festival, it gives you a sense of all that is to come for the next 11 days! And, much more importantly, funds raised from this event enable TIFF to reach out to youth in under-served communities and provide access to high-quality opportunities to learn about and engage with film, bringing film screenings, director discussions and workshops to community partners across the city FREE of charge through our outreach programmes. Our core outreach programs (Pocket Fund, Special Delivery, Reel Comfort) emphasize access, inclusion and diversity.
Q: Is it important for you to incorporate Canadian-designed clothes into your TIFF Soirée look?
A: Absolutely. For the 7th year in a row, I’m working closely with my lovely co-designer, Susan Dicks, who makes the bulk of my Festival clothing. It’s important for me to feel and look good as we race through those 11 action-packed days so leading up to the Festival, I scour fabric stores and land on the doorstep of Susan’s studio with ideas, Pinterest pics, and tons of ambition.

And there you have it, if you love Michael Fassbender, would like to contribute to future TIFF initiatives, and can’t wait to dress up to celebrate the 41st Toronto International Film Festival, then you should definitely attend the TIFF Soirée on September 7th. The evening will start with an exclusive onstage conversation at TIFF Bell Lightbox, followed by a rooftop cocktail party…and of course, Michael Fassbender will be there too. Tickets are still available and can be purchased HERE. See you there?

More photos from past TIFF Soirées after the jump!
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You Are Invited: Best Buy Life & Wearable Tech Expo and Fashion Show

23 August, 2016 Nelia

Sponsored Post
Do you remember The Jetsons? I used to watch that cartoon as a kid, dreaming of flying cars and helpful robots, thinking that it was all just a far-fetched fantasy. Well, in many ways, the future is here. Though we still don’t have flying cars, and only some people have robots in their houses, wearable tech is everywhere from smartwatches to wearable cameras, to virtual reality headsets – there are gadgets out there that we could only dream of just a decade ago. And if wearable tech is something that interests you (and if you live in Toronto), you should definitely stop by the Best Buy Life & Wearable Tech Expo and Fashion Show at Yonge and Dundas Square this Thursday. The expo is a full day interactive event, showcasing the latest wearable tech available at Best Buy.

I’m already a huge fan of Fitbit Alta, but I can’t wait to learn more about gadgets like Muse Brain-Sensing Headband, iON SnapCam, and Smart Rope! The event will include demos, panel discussions, a fashion show, and some cool surprises. If you can’t attend in person, make sure to follow hashtag #LifeandTech on Twitter. See you on Thursday!

EVENT: Best Buy Life & Wearable Tech Expo and Fashion Show
WHERE: Yonge and Dundas Square, Toronto
WHEN: August 25th, 2016 11am-9pm

Photo Credits: Best Buy Plug In Blog

Yayoi Kusama Exhibit is Coming to Toronto’s AGO in March 2018

16 August, 2016 Nelia

When I first read the press release, March 2018 seemed much closer than it actually is…but no matter, 1.5 years is a small price to pay to finally have a proper showcase of Yayoi Kusama’s art in Toronto. Yup, a Yayoi Kusama exhibition is coming to AGO in March 2018, and I can’t wait!

“In March 2018, this exhibition will offer a unique opportunity to experience six of the renowned artists Yayoi Kusama’s most iconic kaleidoscopic environments at once, alongside large-scale, whimsical installations and key paintings, sculptures and works on paper from the early 1950s to the present. It also marks the North American debut of numerous new works by the 87-year-old artist, who is still actively creating in her Tokyo studio.

Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors makes its ONLY Canadian stop at the AGO from March to May, 2018. A selection of more than 60 paintings, sculptures and works on paper will also be on view, showcasing many of Kusama’s lesser-known collages, made after her return to Japan in 1973. These works trace the artist’s trajectory from her early surrealist works on paper to recent paintings and soft sculptures, highlighting recurring themes of nature and fantasy, utopia and dystopia, unity and isolation, obsession and detachment, and life and death.”

This is a big deal, and mark my words, in our age of selfie sticks and Instagram stories, this exhibition is going to be EVERYWHERE – in people’s Facebook profile photos, on Snapchat, and obviously all over your Insta. Kusama’s art is colourful, fun, and highly photogenic…so mark your calendars and get your credit cards ready – you don’t want to miss this one!

More about the exhibition after the jump!
[Read more…]

You Are Invited: Power Ball 2016 – Pleasure Principle

26 May, 2016 Nelia

We are less than a week away from Power Ball XVIII: Pleasure Principle aka one of the best art parties of the year in support of The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery. If you know me, you know that I do not enjoy most galas, but Power Ball definitely falls into the DO NOT MISS category. Last year’s Power Ball XVII: Appetite for Excess was ridiculously fun – with over-the-top food displays (think story-high pastry towers, humongous loafs of bread, octopus chandeliers, and white-gloved hands popping up from tables to feed the attendees), colourful ball pits, and so many more exciting art installations. This year’s theme invites guests to explore their desires through various art-filled spaces at the gallery.

“VIP ticket holders start the evening at 7 p.m. with modernist cocktails prepared by BarChef, and a special production by New York-based artist Ryan McNamara. Remaining spaces open at 9 p.m., showcasing work by several Canadian artists including an opium den installation by Karen Tam and an exploration of (over)stimulation and sensuality by Laura Kikauka, among many other works. Chicago house music pioneer DJ Mark Farina and two of Toronto’s most talked about DJs, Teo Nio and CRSB, will provide musical entertainment throughout the evening. Max Mara will also have an on-site presence throughout the event with visual installations that represent the brand’s heritage, as well as performances by contemporary ballet dancer and choreographer Javon Jones, winner of the Max Mara Young Visionary Award for the National Young Arts Foundation.” Sounds pretty amazing, non?

Considering this year’s theme, I feel like I can probably get away with wearing the same dress I wore last year…and while I am certainly tempted, I am still on the hunt for something else to wear. Right now, I am thinking feathers, velvet, chokers, body chains and sexy heels. If you’re stumped for ideas, I put together a list of my fave Power Ball-inspired pieces below.

Tickets are still available HERE, and if you’ve never been to Power Ball before, I highly recommend this event as a date night, girls night out, or just a fun and fancy outing on a Thursday night. Pro tip: make sure to take Friday off, because going home early is not an option. See you there?

WHAT: Power Ball XVIII: Pleasure Principle
WHEN: June 2nd, 2016 at 7pm (VIP), 9pm (General)
WHERE: The Power Plant, 231 Queens Quay West, Toronto
TICKETS: www.thepowerplant.org

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You Are Invited: Operanation 2016 – Queen of the Night

3 May, 2016 Nelia

Last time I wrote about the annual Operanation party, I proclaimed it the “Met Gala of Toronto fashion”, and with good reason – I’ve never seen so many impeccably-dressed people in one place. Well, this year’s theme is Queen of the Night, and I just know it’s going to be a night to remember.

Canadian electro-pop band Dragonette is slated to collaborate with soprano Ambur Braid and the COC’s Ensemble Studio artists for an intimate performance. Other highlights will include open bar and culinary delights, a massive chocolate display by Brandon Olsen, live art installations by Gillian G, as well as custom-designed “Queen of the Night”-themed temporary tattoos and colouring books.

Following the on-stage performances, partygoers will be able to dance the night away to DJ Diego Armand or step into the Four Seasons Centre rehearsal space for live band karaoke with Toronto fave Good Enough Live Karaoke. I am not sure if I’ll be brave enough to follow in Dragonette’s footsteps by singing karaoke in front of a bunch of strangers, but perhaps after a few drinks, I’ll be slightly more daring? Either way, this year’s opera party promises to be an epic night of indulgence and wicked fun. Will you be there to enjoy it?

WHEN: Thursday, May 19th at 9pm
WHERE: Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
145 Queen St W, Toronto
TICKETS: $150 per person
DRESS CODE: Queen of the Night

All funds for the 12th annual event go directly to supporting the COC Ensemble Studio, the nation’s premier training program for Canada’s young opera professionals. Tickets for the party portion of Operanation: Queen of the Night start at $150 per person and are available online at Operanation.ca or by calling COC Ticket Services at 416-363-8231.

You Are Invited: Mademoiselle Privé CHANEL Exhibition in London

28 September, 2015 Nelia

If you’re a hardcore CHANEL fan like me, fascinated by Coco Chanel, and have always dreamed about getting a behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s origins and craftsmanship, then you MUST visit the upcoming Mademoiselle Privé CHANEL Exhibit in London! To be held at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery from October 13th – November 1st, this event promises to deliver an intimate and fascinating journey for all CHANEL obsessives.

The exhibition will “highlight the Haute Couture, the re-editions of the High Jewellery “Bijoux de Diamants” collection created in 1932 and CHANEL No5. Opening the doors to reveal a dazzling experience and immersion into the origins of CHANEL’s creations, “Mademoiselle Privé” will capture the charismatic personality and irreverent spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld.” With complimentary workshops four times a day, visitors will learn about Lesage embroidery, Maison Lemarié feather and flower creations, as well as the iconic CHANEL No5 perfume and its ingredients. Tickets to these workshops can be reserved in advance, starting October 7th, so mark that date on your calendars.

Even the setup of the exhibition sounds magical – starting with a contemporary English garden, that will lead into the gallery reminiscent of Gabrielle Chanel’s apartment, and several rooms, each representing symbolic places, such as 31 rue Cambon and the Place Vendôme in Paris. The “Mademoiselle Privé” exhibition will end with a ‘Jardin à la Française’ – 18th century garden, inspired by the interlocking C’s that Mademoiselle first saw in the stained-glass windows at Aubazine orphanage. This garden will combine “the symbols of Mademoiselle’s childhood, the enigma and the mystery of her years at the orphanage, with Karl Lagerfeld’s knowledge and passion for the French 18th century garden.”

More after the jump! [Read more…]

You Are Invited: Hermès Canada Charity Silk Sale in Toronto

6 April, 2015 Nelia

Amazing news, guys! Hermès Charity Silk Sale is coming to Toronto on April 23rd, and if you’re a fan of the brand, you won’t want to miss it! In the past, merchandise included scarves, ties, bracelets, and small leather goods, with really good discounts offered. The sale will be held in support of Multiple Sclerosis Research at St. Michael’s Hospital, so it’s for a good cause too. Not much else to say, except…see you in line?

WHEN: April 23, 2015 8am-7pm
WHERE: Metro Convention Centre
255 Front St West
North Building, Room 201
ALL SALES ARE FINAL

You Are Invited: Grand Re-Opening of Gap Store at Yorkdale!

7 November, 2014 Nelia

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After a couple of months of renovations, Gap Yorkdale is finally ready to unveil its shiny new store, and you’re invited to celebrate this special occasion on Thursday, November 13! To make this party truly special, Gap is going all out with yummy treats, fun giveaways, discounts, mini makeovers, and a DJ spinning fresh tunes. Seriously, guys, this party is going to have EVERYTHING!

So on November 13th, grab a few friends, and stop by Yorkdale Shopping Centre to check out the new Gap store. You may just score a Mystery Gift Card Makeover…and we’ll bond over our mutual love of stripes. See you there?

COME CELEBRATE THE NEW GAP STORE
YORKDALE MALL – 3401 DUFFERIN STREET
HOSTED BY NELIA BELKOVA OF STYLEBLOG.CA
DJ + FASHION + REFRESHMENTS + GIVEAWAYS + DISCOUNTS
THURSDAY, NOV. 13TH, 5PM – 9PM

You Are Invited: ALDO A-LIST Party at Yorkdale!

2 May, 2014 Nelia

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Sponsored Post

If you missed the last couple of ALDO A-List parties, don’t fret, because I’m hosting another fun-filled ALDO event, and YOU ARE INVITED! On May 11th, bring your mom, your friends, your boyfriend, and join me for a morning of shopping, discounts, brunch bites, and surprises at the ALDO store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre! The new Ostwald Helgason x ALDO Rise collection will be available, and if you still haven’t seen those shoes and bags in person, now’s your chance!

Don’t forget to RSVP, and bring your dance moves, because it’s going to be that kind of a party. See you there?

WHAT: ALDO A-List Party (DJ, discounts, drinks and treats provided, gift card giveaways)
WHERE: ALDO Store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre
WHEN: May 11th, 2014 10am-1pm
RSVP: http://aldo-alist-yorkdale.eventbrite.ca

You Are Invited: Blogger Beauty Brunch at Do My Hair!

10 March, 2014 Nelia

Exciting news, lovelies! Right in time for Toronto Fashion Week, my blogger friends and I will be throwing a fun Blogger Beauty Brunch at Do My Hair salon on Mt. Pleasant! Join us for an afternoon of pampering, light refreshments, and fun. The salon will be offering complimentary haircuts, blowouts, and make-up applications, to get you ready for fashion week, or to just treat yourself, because spring is coming, and we all could use a little TLC!

But that’s not all! If you attend our event, make sure to post some photos, using hashtag #beautybrunchTO for a chance to win a makeover valued at up to $500! Pretty awesome, right?! Oh, and did I mention gift bags? We’ll have those too! So if you are interested in getting pampered and joining us at the Blogger Beauty Brunch this Sunday, check out the details below and don’t forget to reserve your spot! See you there!

WHEN: Sunday, March 16, 2014 10:30am-2:30am
WHERE: Do My Hair, 583 Mount Pleasant Rd
WHAT: Choice of a complimentary haircut, blowout, or make-up application (spots are limited!)
WHO: Style Blog, The Backseat Stylers, The Souls of My Shoes
Call 416-544-0505 to book your appointment!