Fashion: Razzle Dazzle 'Em

Sequins have made a dazzlingly sophisticated comeback. The pieces we are seeing are much more chic and versatile then in the past; thus allowing the conventional woman to incorporate some sparkle into her everyday life.

People generally equate the shimmering sequins with red carpet or holiday attire – but a little goes a long way. This time around we have the option to dress our sequins up or down. Of course there will always be the glitzy party dress that is just for the party, but we’re also seeing sequin tanks, t-shirts, and skirts being integrated into daytime ensembles. That is the charm of this new and improved gem of a trend.

The key is to pick one sequined piece at a time, letting it be the focal point of the ensemble, by keeping everything else simple. One sequined piece can add immense vivacity to a winter wardrobe not to mention a little glamour to everyday life. For some brilliant inspiration, check out the celebrity looks below.

(Sequined crepe dress By K Karl Lagerfeld, $440 at: www.net-a-porter.com)

Lifestyle: In like a Lion

(Photo courtesy of the restaurant.)

Manhattan has a roaring new hotspot. John DeLucie has taken time off as Chef at one of my favorite New York restaurants, Waverly Inn, to open his own rendition of a famous 1960’s restaurant: Lion.

The place where Bette Midler and Barbara Streisand launched their singing careers, was revived last spring, in the exact same Greenwich Village townhouse. Once again the venue has become a favorite amongst celebrities; yet, this time around, regular Joe’s are also welcome to part-take in a delectable dining experience, as celebrities are said to be kept hidden upstairs in the “secret library.” (A dining room on the balcony in which you may catch a glimpse of people coming or going from the general dining area.)

The menu is less intimidating than other upper-scale restaurants in its class, offering mostly American comfort dishes, with a delightfully, tasteful twist. For an additional $100 per person, you can shave white truffles on anything you desire – taking your yummy $25 pasta to a delicious, yet pricey, $125 to-die-for dish.

Whatever you decide on, just be sure to save room for some cheesecake in a jar and do compliment it with a glass of Noble Semillon Viu Manent Chile, 2008, dessert wine - absolutely scrumptious!

Beauty: Mauve Over Black....

Shades of Mauve, Gold, Gray and Navy are stealing the show this fall when it comes to nailing polish trends.

I'm currently obsessed with a shade by ESSIE called Merino Cool(as shown in photo). It works with virtually everything in my closet and makes me feel pretty and polished for any occasion.

If you can't decide on just one color - try two! Do a navy nail with gold or silver mod design. An inverted french tip-where the tip is at base of nail is tres trendy! Enjoy - Xo

Fashion: Fur-ociously Fabulous

It’s clearly getting colder and the only thing exciting me about this sudden change in temperature is: it’s time to bring out the furs!

On a runway high for the last few years, fur is hitting the streets in a fierce way this fall/winter season and the good news is it isn’t just for the uptown girl. Use your imagination and fur can work anyway on anyone. It can look cool or Glam; dress it up or dress it down; wear it out for a walk or for a jaunt on the town. The possibilities are endless....


(Halston Heritage faux goat fur vest available in an a variety of colors at: www.singer22.com)

Shop the Look: Hitchcock Heroine

Sophisticated and pretty with a touch of sass is the perfect way to describe the mood of one of the hautest trends fashion experts are referring to as, Hitchcock Heroine. To achieve this look, one must embrace the 40’s simplicity and modishness; opt for slim cut suits and well tailored dresses. A nipped waist is essential, so don't hesitate to cinch that dress with a skinny belt. Handbags are structured and luxe while shoes are lady like, yet sexy. Leather driver gloves are a chic fall must-have and jewelery should exude a simple, ladylike, elegance. As for outerwear, hunt for the perfect statement swing coat or cape. Keep in mind, there is no need to wear these all at once. Make it your own, by picking and choosing pieces that capture your personal modern interpretation of the trend. Need inspiration? Channel Grace Kelly: the epitome of polished and elegant; a true Hitchcock Heroine.

(This Oscar de la Renta cocktail dress is perfect Hitchcock attire for a dressy event or party and is available at www.saks.com)


(These Aldo Balschner satin shoes compliment the mood and fabric of the dress perfectly - they are available for approximately $70.00)


(This Stephen Webster Mother of Pearl and clear Quartz, Sterling ring is just enough bling to accent this uptown girl ensemble - approximately $335.00 at www.saks.com)



(A silver clutch like this classic and chic YSL version adds just enough pop to this steamlined silhouette and neutral palette - also available in gold at www.saks.com)

(This Tahari Sheath is the perfect go-to dress - a classic wool and Jersey blend in one of fall's hautest colors, camel - this dress will last for seasons - approximately $368.00 at Robert Simmonds in Fredericton, New Brunswick or online at www.saks.com)

(The Leopard print on these classic Jimmy Choo stilettos add just the right amount of sass to this chic, yet, conservative ensemble - available at www.saks.com)

(The Hitchcock woman wouldn't be complete with out a structured handbag like this Valentino patent style available at www.saks.com for $1895.00)


(Today's Hitchcock Heroine would store her chunky watch and wear something a little more feminine and modern like the one above by Philip Stein- $440.00, available at www.saks.com)


(To complete the look - these 18k Gold Tiffany & Co earrings give a nod to both the past and present day Hitchcock Femme, accenting the look fabulously - available at www.tiffany.com)


(When stepping outside, take direction from this gorgeous Cashmere AKRIS swing style coat above - available at www.saks.com)


(Last but not least, driver gloves like the ones above, are very on trend with or without your jacket - so be sure to include a pair on the fall shopping list - available at www.victoriasecret.com)

Lifestyle: The Cove Resort

Atop and two of the stunning Paradise Island, Bahamas, sits a stylishly dynamic 22-story luxury hotel: The Cove. Inspired by Vegas Hipsters and located in the exciting world of Atlantis, this "resort with-in a resort" offers the best of both worlds: tranquility and a vibrant social scene. With no shortages of indulgent experiences, including gourmet cuisines, high-end shopping, an amazing water park and a world-class casino, it's no wonder that guests have been known to rub elbows with celebrities such as, Julia Roberts, Katy Perry, Kim Kardashian and Carrie Underwood.

Rooms present ocean views of breathtaking pink and white sand beaches against crystal clear turquoise waters. Guests of The Cove resort also receive total access to the exclusive Cain at The Cove; an adults-only pool area where the vibe is trendy and the energy is high. Guests can feel free to try their luck at any 5 gaming tables surrounding chic infinity pools; indulge in a massage while chillin' in their lounger or soak up the sun on a day bed sipping fancy cocktails with friends - all while the DJ mixes the coolest beats.

Only in Nassau for the day via cruise or renting a condo with friends? Then be sure to purchase a day pass to Cain at The Cove – it will give you a little taste of the resort and trust me – it’s totally worth it!
(The Cain at Cove, Atlantis, Bahamas)

Spotted: Untamed Fashionista's

For decades fashionista’s have been tastefully incorporating animal prints into their wardrobes (key word being – tastefully). This season designers, such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Michael Kors and Lanvin went wild for Leopard prints; since then these sexy spots have been making a fierce comeback. Whether worn as an accent or statement piece, adding just a spot of leopard will undoubtedly add personality to an otherwise basic ensemble. Pair this print with excessive bronze and gold jewelry to channel some frisky 70’s Glamour (think heaps of bangles, oversized earrings and one big statement ring) and be sure to perrrrr-fect the look with a sexy pair of vintage inspired shades – meow.

(Burberry animal print fur trench coat available at: www.burberry.com)

Lifestyle: Spice in the City

Spice Market, originally uploaded by luckyfish.

In the city where dreams are made of and there is nothing you can’t do, buy, try or eat, exists an unbelievable establishment that continues to remain a popular choice to dine amongst an array of old and new restaurants in Manhattan. Located in the heart of the oh-so-hip and trendy Meat Packing District, Spice Market, has become a staple restaurant to celebrities and the masses.

Owned by one of the world’s most famous chefs, Jean - Georges Vongerichten, who delivers his remarkably exotic menu by traveling throughout South East Asia sampling street foods then translating them into his own delicious masterpieces.

Portions are made to share and all dishes are equally mouth-watering, however, I recommend the grilled strip steak with garlic coriander and sesame, with an order of green curry vegetables and ginger fried rice (to-die-for). If the mood calls for appetizers and drinks, there is an array of small dishes to whet your appetite; my personal favorites being the chicken skewer with lime dipping sauce or to satisfy that super spicy craving, opt for the spicy Thai fried chicken wings with mango and mint - yum!

Beauty: Slick & Stylin'

Men’s hair trends for 2010 are numerous and diverse, with something to satisfy all male hair types, face shapes, personalities. We are seeing a return to classic philosophy in all ventures, creating an ‘out-with-the new’ and ‘in-with-the-old’ mind frame. In the hair department, the resurrection of the slick back (that sexy and stylish hair style sported by the suave and handsome Cary Grant) is a prominent example of this philosophy.

Since appearing in 2008/09 designer fashion collections, the look has been gaining much momentum and has since been flaunted on the red carpet by fashion icons like George Clooney; helping to popularize the slick back look amongst the masses.

The slick back is a classic yet modern hair trend not to be confused with the "comb over." If unsure how to create this look, take direction from the pictures shown or check out Ralph Lauren’s male catalogue models at: www.ralphlauren.com

With the real decision being to part or not to part the hair; keep in mind both looks are on trend, so it basically depends on which one better flatters the facial structure.

Tamper around with different variations and side parts to see what works best for you. As for hair product, there is no need to break the bank - keep strands in place while achieving the classic, wet, slick look with some good, old fashioned Brylcreem.

(Hair & photo compliments of emersonsalon.com)

Lifestyle: Magnificant Music

Dead Letter Chorus & Jonathan in Chippendale, originally uploaded by Shoot The Player.

Dead Letter Chorus, an indie folk band hailing from Down Under, is a musical force to be reckoned with. With intensely addictive tunes, it's no surprise they're capturing fans from all over the world. The dynamic band consisting of five members have just completed a tour across Canada, promoting their latest album: The August Magnificent. It features a unique and sweet mix of vocals, deep lyrics and shifting tempos; backed by truly amazing instrumentals. Often compared to the talented Canadian native band, The Arcade Fire, DLC’s August Magnificent has been receiving rave reviews with critics giving them four stars and calling it “epic.” Be sure to check them out!

http://www.myspace.com/deadletterchorus

Beauty: Mane Priority

Shiny and healthy hair should always be a priority; however it's not always easy to keep up with new color trends and styles and maintain your mane's ultra healthy condtion. With healthy hair being the top hair trend for 2010, it’s no surprise many of Hollywood‘s A-Lister's are ‘going back to their roots'; turning heads with their Au natural take on tresses.



Some trendy salons are opting for alternative techniques, as opposed to foiling, in order to achieve this natural lightening effect. A very low maintenance French technique that has become a big deal in the world of fashion is called “Balayage.” This involves the stylist applying a lighter hair color in a sweeping motion, freehand, with a brush to hair strands of choice (mostly toward the ends). The end result: sexy sun kissed hair with more natural re-growth.



The “Ribbon” technique is another very similar way to get natural highlights. Created by Jo Hansford, a stylist also known as, the “first lady of color." The trick to this technique is to paint 2cm “ribbon” sections of hair from under the part with the lighter hair color; thus creating a peek-a-boo effect with the highlights. The end result: very multi-dimensional hair color, similar to foiling, but much less maintenance and more Au natural.



Another technique that is as easy on the bank account as it is the hair is some good old fashion lemon aid. Next time you’re out pick up some organic lemon juice and save a trip to the salon. Apply it freehand to strands you wish to lighten for a tres Au natural lightening effect. Some salons are actually offering a similar service to this DYI highlighting technique. First they bathe hair in organic lemon juice. Then more lemon juice is applied to various sections or strands of hair to create a highlight effect. This might be one of the oldest highlighting tricks in the book; however, it appears to work best on naturally blond or light brown manes.

Shop the Look: Cocktail, anyone?

Cocktail rings, like this Black Onyx & Sterling ring by Judith Ripka, are elegantly dramatic pieces reminiscent of the Art Deco Era (ring shown, available at www.saksfifthavenue.com for $468.50 CAD).

Originally they were designed during prohibition to be worn at underground Cocktail parties. While underground may no longer be the trendy venue of choice - the Cocktail ring endures, remaining a true staple. With bold statement jewelry hitting ample trend status in the last couple years, Cocktail rings are no longer just for fancy parties. It's now tres chic to flaunt your rock as an everyday piece, making it more justifiable to splurge on this versatile piece, that looks equally haute dressed up or down!


(John Hardy Sterling Silver & White Topaz dome ring - $723.57 CAD at www.saksfifthavenue.com)

Saks Fifth Avenue offers a wide range of beautiful Cocktail rings like the ones shown. There is a price to fit everyone’s pocketbook and you can now order online from Canada too! Don't stop there though, as you never know where you may find your Gem. Other places to keep an eye out are estate sales and jeweler auctions. With vintage jewelry being so high in demand right now, it might even be worth checking thrift stores, consignment shops and your grandmother's jewelry box!


(David Yurman, Citrine Diamond & 18k Yellow gold ring - $4112.38 CAD at www.saksfifthavenue.com)

Either way - when you find a Cocktail ring you love don’t hesitate – buy it! You can never go wrong with something that makes you feel as beautiful and elegant as a one of a kind statement piece. Besides, there will always be an event where one will find them self holding a champagne or martini glass; so why not do it in style!


(Kenneth Jay Lane Faceted Crystal ring - $93.70 CAD at www.saksfifthavenue.com)

Lifestyle: Intoxicate your Senses

The Cliff Barbados, originally uploaded by Adam Miller.

Heading to the Caribbean for a hot spring-get-away? If so, be sure to check out the beautiful Island of Barbados and dine rail side over candle light at a spectacular open air restaurant ranked as one of the 50 best restaurants in the world: The Cliff.

This elegantly casual restaurant offers a modern and creative international cuisine; professional and friendly service and not to mention an ambiance that will literally take your breath away. The restaurant is situated on top of a coral cliff on the Platinum coast in St. James Parish – home away from home for many of the world’s rich and famous. The Cliff may be one of the most romantic restaurants in the world. You will admire an intoxicating view over-looking the Caribbean Sea and may just want to pinch yourself (I did!).

Be prepared to spend around $500US on dinner for two, plus an additional charge for a decent bottle of wine and of course to indulge in some pre/post drinks in their trendy lounge upstairs (with another astonishing view). Fish is the Island’s specialty, but if you’re a beef lover, I recommend the beef tenderloin and truffle French fries. For an additional supplemental fee, you can go with the always popular Kobe beef or similar world class morsels. I will advise however, that all dishes on the menu are equally delicious and that the upgrade in price did not provide that much different of a gastronomical experience!

P.S. - Be sure to look down and check out the massive stingrays swimming below!

Beauty: Perfectly Polished

Muddy lacquers made their debut on the spring 2010 runways, causing fashionistas to go nutty for all shades of putty. Taupe-ish neutrals like the shade above were most popular on the Chanel runway, however, don't hesitate to experiment with a wide range of always classic neutrals, including dark, rich browns!


For something more vibrant, opt for a sunny shade of coral. This hue looks especially haute when it comes time to bare those freshly manicured toes; while taupe's look elegant on fingers, flattering any jewelery piece or ensemble.

Either way, whatever your fancy, have no fear; both color trends will work with almost any skin tone.


(item above is available at www.sephora.com)

Fashion: Romp Around

(Erin Wasson)

Fashionistas are getting a romp on what is perhaps this season's hautest trend: the Romper.

Like it's cousin, the Pantsuit, the Romper has been accompanying fashion diva's on the best dressed list for decades. This time around, designers are romping it up a notch, creating an abundant amount of variations. Each look respectfully giving a nod to the past, while embodying a fresh and modern look that screams now - in more ways then one!

(Rochas)

Fuss free and super versatile, the Romper is a fabulous alternative to the mini-dress, looking equally stylish with wedged or flat sandals for day and sky-high platforms for night. This makes it a "must" item when trying to pack light for that upcoming spring vacay or weekend get-away!

(Twenty8Twelve)

Perhaps my favorite thing about this one piece garment is that it's monochromatic simplicity begs for accessories, so don't forget the icing! Try huge earrings, an over sized Cocktail ring and lots of arm candy!

(Charlotte Ronson)

Whether it's casual Friday at work; a sunny day of window shopping; a lunch date with a special boy or painting the town red with your BFF's - from size double zero to extra, extra lovely - shop around and you'll be sure to find a Romper that is a perfect fit for your unique figure and personality!

(L'Wren)

(Images courtesy of www.style.com)

Fashion: Slouch in Style

(Roland Mouret)

Slouchy posture may always be a faux pas, but this season slouchy silhouettes are another story.

(Stella McCartney)

Effortless slouch apparel was a dominant trend on the spring runways in spring '09 with some of my favorite designers, Chloe, Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs as front runners in getting the look right. Since then, celebrities have been getting their slouch on, and this trend has been gaining momentum on the streets, making it hotter than ever this spring and summer.

(Stella McCartney)

To rock it like a pro it's important to be able to define the fine line between slouchy and sloppy. It might be a no fuss, no muss look, but every fashionista knows it always takes effort to look effortlessly chic!

(Isabel Marant Slouchy Jumpsuit)

Look for loose fitting pants, tops, jackets and dresses in a relaxed yet sophisticated style. Pieces should loosely drape your frame. Try to avoid looking like you're drowning in them. Balance is key (although a little je ne sais quoi never has never hurt!). Choosing proper proportions can make or break any ensemble there are no exceptions to this rule when pulling off the slouch balancing act. If unsure, it's always best to focus on one area to avoid looking like a fashion train wreck.

(Dries Van Noten)

For instance, try tucking a loose tank into a skinny jean or fitted skirt OR try a slouchy bottom with a fitted top. If up for more of a challenge, feel free to take on bigger risks, and try to work several slouchy pieces. Keeping in mind that it's important to add a shape with the clever use of accessories.

(Givenchy)

Actually accessories are very much getting their slouch on this spring and summer and are a great option for people who don't feel slouchy clothing works well for their figure (trust me; it's not for everyone!). Over-sized slouchy hobo purses or an over-sized slouchy scarf always look chic and are a great way to get in on this trend!

(Images courtesy of www.style.com)