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)