Monochromatic

Guess Who's Back!

2011-01-10T13:19:00.003-05:00

Hello dear readers!

Well, it's been a while hasn't it?

Let me begin by wishing you all a Happy belated New Year! May this year bring you health, love, happiness, prosperity, and success. I hope you all had a good one!

I, as per usual, overindulged and unfortunately, my sensitive tummy paid a hefty price. I saw my bed more often than I desired. Why you ask? Well, I was relegated to the foetus position as a lay there in pain for the better half of the day following Christmas, damning that scrumptious ~~boxes~~ box of Scottish caramel shortcakes I decided to gulp down, as if the elaborate Christmas four-course meal (and seconds) I savored the day before hadn't been enough! Worst of all, being the glutton for punishment that I am, no sooner did I recover from my digestive malaise that I was back at it again, sucking up those addictive caramel-y pieces of heaven! And, well, you all know what comes next, so onto the actual subject of this post!

As promised, today I bring you the new and improved( well, you be the judge) Monochromatic! As of now, for regular updates on matters of fashion and style, interspersed with my neurotic penchant for rumination and interrogation (like a member of Parliament during Question Period minus the unruliness of course!), please go to:

lemonochromatic.com.

I do hope you've enjoyed this blog so far, and hope you will enjoy the new site even more, so much so that you'll keep coming back!

I bid you adieu Monochromatic, and look forward to a new year of blogging at Monochromatic 2.0 (I think I love the word monochromatic too much. I must have mentioned it a trillion times by now!)

See you all on the other side, (a pity I can't bring the gorgeous and stylish beach-goers pictured above. I'll miss you, you sexy hatted specimen you!!)

Bisou

K

Monochromatic on Hiatus

2010-12-10T13:52:00.001-05:00

Hello dear readers,

Please note that Monochromatic is on hiatus as of today, during which time, it will undergo a much-needed makeover. While turning this blog into a bigger, and better platform for all matters of fashion and style has been a hair-pulling exercise thus far (html, css, what?!), I assure you that the new Monochromatic will be up and running within a month's time. Yes, I'll be working on this baby during the holidays! Please stay tuned for more fashion news, tidbits, analysis, and discourse to come in January 2011. In the meantime, I wish you all a great holiday season, full of cheer, love, happiness, plus succulent, sugary, fattening, tooth-decaying treats (just kidding!), and of course...fashion!

Bisou,

Katia

2010-12-06T00:03:00.005-05:00

White walls, white curtains, and a white gown. Here, the color white comes to symbolize death. Interesting how symbolic representations of clothing of any one color sometimes differ from one culture to another.

The Unwritten Law of Dry Cleaning (Needs to be Rewritten!)- UPDATE

2010-11-23T20:00:00.005-05:00

Alas, the unwritten law of dry cleaning remains, and while my local dry cleaners failed to retrieve my missing skirt, they reimbursed me for it, at which point I quickly joined one of my girlfriends for a shopping jaunt downtown and snatched up a cute black pencil skirt with a faux-leather waistband. But classic, layered skirt, you won't soon be forgotten...

Fashion as Art?

2010-11-10T13:55:00.009-05:00

Art: n. A visual object or experience consciously created through an expression of skill and imagination. (Encyclopaedia Britannica)

Is fashion art? If we base ourselves on the above definition, then it is safe to surmise that yes, it is. While traditional definitions of art have been challenged over time to include contemporary forms of art, namely video, and installations, if there is still any doubt as to whether fashion deserves inclusion into the spectrum, the gradual increase of exhibitions showcasing the work of couturiers here and abroad testify to its legitimacy as an art form.

It's certainly refreshing to see renowned art institutions pay tribute to the aesthetic contributions of the fashion world, whether it be a retrospective of Yves Saint-Laurent's career spanning 40 years, a showcase of the wardrobe of one enduring 1950s style icon, Grace Kelly, or a melding of fashion and architecture, as shown through the recent exhibition of the intricate works of Quebec fashion virtuoso Denis Gagnon. And with more exhibitions of the like to come- the MBAM is slated to showcase Jean-Paul Gaultier next- is it still necessary to ponder the question of whether fashion is art?

photos via montrealgazette.com, and froufrouu.

The Unwritten Law of Dry Cleaning (Needs to be Rewritten!)

2010-10-28T16:15:00.005-04:00

The unimaginable has happened! Never did I fathom this could be possible, but then again, we're talking about me here. Hapless is my middle name!

So, the other day, I head to my local dry cleaners to retrieve two silk blouses and my favorite, yes favorite black layered skirt, which I dropped off the week before. My jaunts to the laundromat have become an almost weekly affair, since, judging by the recurring food stains on my silk blouses and shirts, it seems as though, at the not-so-young age of 27, I require a bib in order to eat without splattering my clothes chock full of teriyaki sauce, and ham bits! Enough said.

I receive my blouses, leave and go about my day. Later on that evening, while walking back to the subway, I stop in my tracks when I realize that, why oh my, I didn't get my skirt! As you can imagine, I laid awake all night, wondering if it had fallen out of my bag or if I'd simply forgotten to grab it along with the rest of my clothes. Alas, the next morning when I returned to the dry cleaners, I was sadly informed that my precious, classic, and most practical skirt wasn't there! Now, I know I brought it in, which means that there are only one of three possible explanations for its whereabouts at this present time: either it's been misplaced, lost, or worst of all, another customer may have gone home with it!

Larry David sympathizes with me, I'm sure. Now, it's no Joe Pepitone jersey, so I don't think I'll be fortunate enough to run into the new proprietor of my beloved skirt and attempt to yank it off their person (or have my own trusty Leon volunteer to do it)!! Sucks to me be right now.

The Psychology of Style

2010-10-17T09:00:00.015-04:00

Photo: Getty Images, featured in Style Book: Fashion Inspirations by Elizabeth Walker

Fashion. Style. Are the two synonymous? Interchangeable? Can the latter exist without the former?

It's sometimes difficult to make the distinction, what with the inundation of periodic trend forecasts, dictates on the latest must-haves, and the ever changing state of prêt-à-porter. It seems as though the lines are blurred.

While fashion makes constant reference to the outside world, with designers taking cues from art, architecture, history, and culture, style is a reflection of oneself, thus stemming from within. The field of psychology offers tremendous insight on the subject. Below are three noteworthy articles on the debate of fashion versus style, courtesy of Psychology Today. They're oldies, but goodies!

The Style Imperative

The Value of Style

How to Have Style

What is your take on fashion versus style?

And Then Came Denis Gagnon

2010-10-09T22:18:00.011-04:00

Photo: Julien Faugère

Decidedly, 2010 is Denis Gagnon's year. From his recent collaboration with mass retailer Bedo, to the documentary film of which he is the subject, Je m'appelle Denis Gagnon (My name is Denis Gagnon), which premiered earlier this year at the International Festival of Films on Art, this designer is generating some major buzz. This leaves me incredibly embarrassed to admit that I'd never heard of the bespectacled fashion maverick before now! These days, the fashion cognoscenti have one more reason to celebrate Gagnon, with the much-anticipated retrospective of the designer's work at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts this month. The first of its kind, the exhibit, aptly titled, Denis Gagnon s'expose (Denis Gagnon shows all) will showcase the work of the homegrown couturier spanning the course of his illustrious decade-long career. And here's my opportunity to school myself on Montreal fashion's darling enfant terrible (I'm still so embarrassed)!

Denis Gagnon s'expose, at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
from October 19th, 2010 to February 13th, 2011

Je m'appelle Denis Gagnon, special screening at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
October 19th, 2010, 6pm

Montreal Fashion Week SS 2011

2010-09-22T21:55:00.005-04:00

The monster event that is New York Fashion Week has come and gone, its British counterpart wrapped up just yesterday, and now the glitterati of the fashion world are indulging in all the fashion and frolic Milan has to offer before setting sails for Paris. Meanwhile, Montreal is preparing for the 19th edition of Montreal Fashion Week, to be held at Marché Bonsecours from September 27-30th. Okay, so it's not exactly a week, but sure to be filled with Montreal's particular brand of glitz and glamour.

While shows are for the eyes of buyers, industry insiders, and media only, last minute tickets can be purchased on the day of the show through lavitrine.com. Luckily, MFW organizers have not forgotten the populace, and have made certain events open to the public, namely Le Showroom, where buyers and designers converge under one roof, enabling designers who aren't showing their wares on the runway to put their Spring/Summer 2011 collections on display, as well as Tendances SMM-19 vues par Yso, the closing runway show, complete with highlights of each designer collection courtesy of Yso, the stylist to Quebec darling Denis Gagnon. For the full schedule of events, please visit montrealfashionweek.ca

Heartbeats, vintage and more vintage: Is it too much of a good thing?

2010-06-23T00:08:00.023-04:00

I went to see Xavier Dolan's highly-acclaimed second feature, Les Amours Imaginaires the other day. Rarely do movie posters in the metro pique my curiosity, but this one, I thought, was etched with mystery, and as such, warranted a closer look.

The story behind this highly-stylized cinematic offering is simple: Francis and Marie are good friends, and Nicolas is the apple of their eye. Both compete for Nicolas' affection, and the ensuing battle is at times comical, at times painful to watch, and for the most part, a mirror of our own intricate and inexplicable love and lust relationships.

In this film, vintage shares the stage with our protagonists. Marie wears vintage from head-to-toe. All day. Everyday. In a room full of hipster club kids, she is the throwback to another era. At a party, one night, she is slighted by another woman for her way of dress, and complains to Francis, who then sums up beautifully how I felt about her accoutrements since the opening credits, "Ce n'est pas parce que c'est vintage que c'est beau!"

Ouch!! But, oh so true. Francis' blunt observation is apropos, in a world where we value the treasures of decades past, it's important to add a touch of modernism to our vintage ensembles, lest we want to resemble a relic of the past. Just as we mix high and low, the way to successfully execute a vintage look is to add a modern twist to it. Now, I won’t tell you if Marie heeds her best friend’s words of wisdom. You’ll have to see the film, and find out for yourself.

Les Amours Imaginaires- official website

Remembering Grace Kelly

2010-04-21T02:19:00.005-04:00

The late Princess of Monaco, Hollywood actress, and style icon Grace Kelly graces the cover of Vanity Fair Magazine's May 2010 issue. If you can get passed the ridiculous article about Tiger Woods, followed by an even more ridiculous photo gallery paying hommage to his concubines, the article, written in light of an upcoming exhibition showcasing Ms. Kelly's style at the Albert and Victoria Museum of London, is worth reading, if only for the images of Kelly's effortless chic and enduring style. But beware, the author, in her adulation of Grace Kelly, may leave some readers somewhat annoyed (however iconic, she was human after all- why is it so difficult to fathom that Kelly enjoyed sex just like the next person??)

Read the article here.

Inspiration as of Late II

2010-02-23T12:40:00.020-05:00

photo via Garance Doré

Big skirts, cinched waists, classic trench coats, and high collars.

photos via style.com

ZARA: Budget Chic

2010-02-09T20:54:00.009-05:00

I discovered Zara at a time when less than desirable circumstances had left me in a financial bind where I felt relegated to a life of cheap sartorial frills. Yes, I was quite the snob, and once held only a niche of mid-range to high-end boutiques in high esteem, where I would shop exclusively while actively dismissing others I assumed couldn't possibly carry items of the style and quality I grew accustomed to.

The bad news is that I'm still pinching pennies, but the good news is that I've gotten off my high horse and come to appreciate the European retailer, which carries classic, and elegant pieces that have all the appeal of chic designer wares at only a fraction of the price.

Amen!

photos via Zara.com

Luxe Arm Candy

2010-01-16T14:21:00.005-05:00

Chrome Hearts black diamond cuff. The perfect adornment for a seductress in a little black dress (how naughty)

via luxuryculture.com

C'est bien beau

2010-01-11T14:50:00.005-05:00

Taupe military jacket, colorful scarf, plaid shirt, and gaudy jewelry. Exquisite!

via Brook&Lyn

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T23:13:00.004-05:00

Thank you Professor Sanders.

The Art of the Trench: Burberry Embraces Web 2.0

2009-11-24T21:29:00.019-05:00

The trench coat is one of the few enduring fashion staples of our time. And now Burberry, the London Fashion House behind this belted classic, has recently launched artofthetrench.com, an online photo album dedicated to the timeless trench and the people who wear it.

Why the sudden revival? Well, Burberry is hoping to tap into the online market, and bring the trench to a whole new generation of consumers. And in this brilliant marketing strategy, the luxury brand has commissioned none other than famed blogger/streetstyle photographer Scott Schuman, better known as The Sartorialist, to shoot the first 100 photographs. Burberry also invites members of the global creative community to submit portraits of themselves clad in a Burberry trench to be added to this interactive photo mosaic where people can rate, comment on, and share the images via Facebook Connect. The site also features a section entitled, "Story of the Trench", a visual timeline of the trench starting from the 1910s to the present, complete with images, newspaper clippings, and videos illustrating the evolution of the ageless garment throughout the years.

As the first luxury brand to create a social media network of its own, melding the work of leading image makers with crowdsourcing to create a visually breathtaking tribute to the trench, Burberry has set a new standard in online marketing, one which will prove difficult to beat.

For more info, please visit artofthetrench.com

Just Perfect

2009-09-12T10:15:00.006-04:00

Yasmine Sewell...This woman is the epitome of chic. If only I could attain the same degree of sophistication, believe you me, I would die a happy gal!

via Garance Doré

Inspiration as of Late

2009-09-05T19:58:00.019-04:00

via Garance Doré

Jewelry by A(r)mor

via Jak and Jil

Veda

I Want Her Hair

2009-07-25T17:17:00.003-04:00

Pictures via the Cobrasnake

Somewhere in SoHo

2009-07-13T18:54:00.004-04:00

Random Recipe

2009-07-09T00:38:00.007-04:00

This band performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival last Saturday, and I was simply hooked! I just cannot believe that they are still unsigned.

Bookworm

2009-06-27T20:08:00.013-04:00

While some people may struggle with lack of closet space, or counter space, my problem has always been insufficient book space. As I was searching for book storage ideas online, I came across all sorts of innovative, and quirky bookcases, all of which have their very own practicality issues, but the ones below win hands down for being most aesthetically pleasing, and for the guest-oohing they will undoubtedly produce!

Magnetic Modular Shelving

Alog Modular Shelving Unit

The Invisible Bookshelf

The Invisible Stackable Bookshelf

The Floating Bookshelf

The Ubend

The Multi-Functional Shelf

Geometric Modular Shelving

See more bookshelves at the Web Urbanist.

Easy...Breezy...

2009-06-17T21:01:00.007-04:00

Beautiful.

Photo via O.M.O. writes

La Vie en Rose

2009-06-12T22:07:00.003-04:00

I usually hate anything pink, but I can't help but be enamored with this woman's bubbly pink salon.

photo credit: Nast

Noir

2009-05-30T19:00:00.006-04:00

Jewelry by Noir. I think that black and gold make the perfect pair, but I'm partial to the smoky glass ring in this case. Simply divine!

Return of The Ghost

2009-04-22T23:25:00.012-04:00

Oh dear readers, (the bulk of which I believe comprises of my lil' sis, Jeanne, Ev'Yan and my dear bf! Not sure if there are any others, but either way, apologies for such irresponsible behavior are in order!)

I'm so sorry for not having posted anything in nearly two months! I think that this inadvertent hiatus on my part came about at a time when inspiration was at an all-time low, coupled with my inability to figure out exactly what I want to bring forth with this blog, and lastly, good old life stressors thrown into the mix to keep me at an unusual distance from the things that I love and enjoy.

Now, I know that personal style statements I will showcase no more given that many do a much better job than I could ever manage to do in a billion years. Safe to say I will leave that up to the experts from now on (who do an excellent job, might I add!). I much prefer to be an observer rather than a trendsetter when it comes to matters of style, keeping to my minimalist way of dress, which I know does not dazzle as much as '80s revivals and bright-colored cyber jumpsuits, for instance! And that's a-ok with me.

Unfortunately, while I do know what I no longer want to feature on this blog, I have yet to figure out what I do want to showcase. I've realized that while I set this up as a fashion blog, I've wanted on many occasions to discuss things that do not fall within the realm of fashion per se, but quickly realized that it wouldn't be possible without a complete revamp of this blog.

Perhaps then, a revamp is in order so that this blog may finally encompass everything that I believe would be of interest to you readers, all the while keeping with a given theme.

So, as I get to work on this (it may take me a little while. I'm more of a turtle, you see!), do stop by whenever you get a chance, and I hope to have something new that you will enjoy, and that, sooner than later, I hope :)

Bisous,

P.S. Recently stopped by the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Montreal for Imagine: The Peace Ballad of John and Yoko exhibition. Not my cup of tea, but interesting and visually titillating nonetheless. Imagine runs until June 21st, 2009 and admission is free.

Shimmer

2009-02-26T17:53:00.004-05:00

Man about Town

2009-02-21T22:52:00.003-05:00

Sheer Madness

2009-02-18T20:21:00.010-05:00

I'm in a fashion funk. Bored with some ensembles, unsure of others, and desperately seeking to dazzle myself again (which I equate with buying new things, but I feel overwhelmed and simply don't know where to start).

A new dress? A tunic maybe? Your leggings are getting pretty dusty. New shoes to prettify your feet? No no no! Accessories are the way to go! A new purse will do the trick. No, it's outerwear of course (it's still cold outside, and besides, who cares about what's underneath!?).

Ugh, help!!!

Breakfast of Champions

2009-02-14T11:43:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

The Living Library: People on Loan

2009-02-08T19:12:00.021-05:00

Sunday mornings are pure bliss for many reasons, namely sleeping in, eating breakfast in bed, and not having a care in the world (which unfortunately never lasts very long). But best of all is tuning in to CBC News Sunday. Perhaps it's the boyish charm of co-host Evan Solomon, but a huge part of the show's appeal derives from the informative news bits, factoids, and features about innovative projects and social initiatives which would otherwise completely pass us [me] by.

This Sunday, we were introduced to the Living Library, a social initiative which aims to break down stereotypes by promoting dialogue between individuals who stereotype and people (or advocates for people) who are the object of stereotypes. The concept is simple: people stand in as "books" on loan that "readers" may afterwards "borrow" during a 45-60 min talk in order to gain more insight into, and a better understanding of who a person really is. "Books'' discuss anything from ethnicity to religion, touching on adolescence, homelessness and obesity, to name a few, with the ultimate goal being to challenge the most common prejudices.

Now, as I was watching this, the first thought that came to mind was that if I were a "book" on loan at this library, I would choose to be a "fashion" advocate, and I would attempt to dispel stereotypes about fashion-conscious people. It is my experience that people who take a strong liking to fashion, who like to dress well, who invest in clothing, and build a collection of garments, and accessories to match are automatically labeled as superficial, frivolous, self-indulgent compulsive shoppers. The same is never said about other enthusiasts, like collectors of vinyl records, stamps, comic books, sports memorabilia, epicureans, video gamers, or people who like to modify their cars, for instance. It's all the same, isn't it? It boils down to nothing more than taste and preference.

After years of criticism, and judgment by others, I am officially annoyed with having to constantly defend my frequent perusal of shops and boutiques, my regular, yet far from compulsive purchasing of clothes, and the attention that I reserve to the way I dress before walking out of the door.

No, not all fashion lovers have maxed-out credit cards. Not all fashion lovers are narcissistic and self-indulgent. Not all fashion lovers spend money carelessly. Not all fashion lovers have nothing to talk about besides fashion!

Fashion lovers simply enjoy fashion, and think twice about what they put on because looking good boosts one's confidence, dressing is a form of self-expression, and the mere act of dressing can make or break a first impression. While others collect stamps, vintage records, baseballs or video games, we collect clothes, and certainly not at the expense of our rent, and basic necessities! And in the face of the economic crisis, fashion lovers have a right to continue collecting, only we have to think twice before purchasing that which we covet. But last time I checked, I'm still breathing, and as such no economic crisis will stop me from living!

And God forbid, if I get hit by a bus (or a snow removal truck, which seems more likely in Montreal) next time I cross the street, I would like to go out in style!

Photo credit: Living-library.org

Oh My!

2009-02-04T19:21:00.006-05:00

This handmade skirt by Montreal based label Norwegian Wood is a peculiar yet very attractive number! When I see beautiful designs like these, I painfully yearn to turn back the hands of time, and return to Home Ec, master the art of sewing so that maybe today, just maybe, I too could have magic fingers that turn the most whimsical, unique style confections my mind can conjure up into a palpable, and wearable reality. Oh well...

Grace Jones: On the Prowl

2009-01-30T21:29:00.011-05:00

photo credit: Fashionation

This Just in...

2009-01-26T09:38:00.013-05:00

In Milan, Models Still Come in Only One Color. In this recent New York Times Magazine article, writer Greg Trebay talks about the lack of minority representation at men's wear shows in the fashion capital.

Now, while I applaud consistent efforts to bring ethnicity issues to the fore in light of the recent appointment of America's first African American President, why is it that some people believe that the latter, albeit an historical moment in itself, will somehow automatically reverse decades of systematic discrimination? And why must it take the inauguration of the first Black president for these very issues to take precedence? Is it not wishful thinking on our part to expect a change of mentality, and consequently the end of racist, and discriminatory practices to take place overnight?

And while the burgeoning discourse on the matter, as the NYT Magazine article exemplifies, is definitely a good place to start, why aren't concrete measures being taken to make Milan's runways less bland? And by concrete, I'm certainly not referring to the all-black issue of Vogue Italia, which, while it may have been produced with the best intentions in mind, simply comes off as nothing more than a band-aid solution all the while foolishly exposing the racist practices of the industry (seeing as Vogue Italia didn't have any trouble finding black models to populate every single page of the magazine, while designers and casting directors still claim that black, or any non-white models for that matter, are simply not available).

photo credit: The New York Times Magazine

Simply gorgeous

2009-01-22T08:37:00.009-05:00

General consensus as of late is that fashion publications leave much to be desired. It is said that editorials lack novelty, and whatever passes for avant-garde designs and whoever is crowned fresh-faced style icon of the day boils down to nothing more than imitation of the trends and trendsetters of yesteryear.

While I share the same sentiment as many, if not most fashion consumers, enthusiasts, and aficionados, isn't the reemergence of trends/style muses reminiscent of the iconic figures before them simply a natural by-product of the cyclical nature of fashion? And while I'm not exactly dazzled nor swooned by the current offerings of the fashion world, is it necessarily bad to revel in past trends that are (if at all) coming into prominence once again?

I suppose that the issue does not lie in novelty, as I do agree that fashion magazines fail to offer up anything remotely innovative these days. Rather, it is how fashion publications are taking these antiquated ideas and labeling them as "new" and "of the times". My guess is that until the fashion industry can come up with something truly groundbreaking, the taste makers behind the advertising of the trends, styles, and fashion references of yesteryear should see them for what they are, and label them as such, instead of passing them of as novelty.

On a related note, independent designers never fail to impress. While perusing the web, I came across these beautiful vintage creations by Edmdesigns for which I have no words to describe other than...Simply gorgeous. The person behind these watch movements from bygone eras mounted on everything from rings, to pendants, and cuff links rightfully deserves, in my opinion, the award for artistic innovation.

Lolita Lempicka, I Adore You...

2009-01-20T21:20:00.012-05:00

For you created "L", a delightful fragrance that perfectly captures the whimsical world which lies beneath. A treasure bestowed by the sea, your heart-shaped aqua blue bottle adorned with a starfish caught in its golden net releases an intoxicating and bewitching sweet and spicy aroma, which always fills my heart with glee. Mille fois merci ma chère Lolita Lempicka.

Staying In

2009-01-16T11:53:00.037-05:00

Keeping my new year's resolutions is proving to be more difficult than I initially thought. To my utter disappointment, I was unable to register for the spinning class I desperately wanted to take as it was already full! I reluctantly placed myself on the waiting list, but I figure I should begin looking at other options given that I doubt anyone will be giving up their spot anytime soon.

Also, seems like I'm prolonging the holidays, as I've been indulging in pastries and cakes galore!! Why must my last bite of dinner always be followed by: "What's for dessert?" I'm beginning to realize that my gluttony is simply filling the void for other activities I much rather engage in, namely shopping, but am unable to, or rather refuse to for one and a million reasons, one being -28 degree weather which makes the acquisition of beautiful, life-enhancing, stylish things not even worth venturing out into this "arctic abyss of death" (I must credit my good friend Simon for coining the phrase which so perfectly describes Montreal in the winter)!

Hence, while I dream of beautiful shoes and frocks, and save my pretty pennies until Mother Nature grants us milder conditions so that I may peruse vintage shops and boutiques (I hate mall shopping!), I choose to showcase the style of yet another member of my circle, namely my younger sister. A style maven in her own right, lil' sis sure has made good use of all those hand me downs! My trash has indeed become her treasure. It's funny how it never once dawned on me to experiment with my old garments the way that she has. She never ceases to amaze me. And with her, accessories take center stage and always add a touch of vibrancy to her more casual ensembles.

A New Year

2009-01-07T19:38:00.016-05:00

"A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other."- Unknown

As tradition would have it, the start of a new year calls for the making of many resolutions, resolutions that we actually hope to keep. But hope, like beauty and so many other things in this world is fleeting, and consequently, only a few weeks into the New Year, my resolutions usually meet their inevitable demise at the intersection of Life and Other Commitments Deemed More Important but Simply Disguised as Effortless Trivial Pursuits!

Nevertheless, I’ve recently pledged to actually follow through with my resolutions for 2009. Perhaps it’s the ephemeral quality of time that my 25 year-old self feels more than ever, and which weighs heavily on my heart and mind like a boulder. Yes, at the risk of sounding like a whiner to my older peers, I still feel that my age marks a crossroads of sorts at which time, from here on out, passes at supersonic speed.

Hence, 2009 is the year where I will make (and try really, really, really hard to keep) serious life-changing commitments because ultimately, I’m not entirely convinced that I have my whole life ahead of me. If anything, I feel like I’ve wasted so much time on the assumption that I could always accomplish whatever it is that needed doing at a later time. Now, I simply don’t want to postpone anything any longer for fear that death may beat me to it!!

So, without further ado, ladies and gentleman, I bring you my list of resolutions, which most probably resembles yours in some respects, but can do no harm, if not good, as I’m sure many (health professionals, fitness experts, and self-help gurus alike) wouldn't mind that I stress the importance of certain "applicable-to-all" items ( which this list also includes, of course):

Speaking of Old Hollywood style, seems like the boyfriend has been doing some channeling of his own, looking like quite the dandy in this dashing wool coat which, had it not been for yours truly, would’ve never made its way into the closet of this debonair young man. (How selfish of me to take all the credit!)

Happy belated New Year!

All the best of the best for 2009 and hope (however fleeting) that you can keep some, if not all of your resolutions for this year!

P.S. My apologies regarding the technical issues with the photograph. To enlarge it, simply click anywhere in the text.

One too Many Embarrassments

2008-12-23T16:02:00.019-05:00

Why is it that I always perceive my ensembles to be right on key, only to be brutally reminded that I tend to overdo it, and that, after parading shamelessly in public for all to see? I know fashion mishaps are part of the game, part of finding one's true personal style, but I can't help but wish my mirror would talk back to me and tell me when I've gone too far, at least until I develop a more discerning eye.

On a separate note, I have to say that this poor plant has tremendously suffered under the care of yours truly. If only I had watered it regularly, and given it the required amount of TLC... It is with much shame and embarrassment that I admit that I haven't the faintest clue when it comes to caring for these space-beautifying living organisms. I watered it today, secretly hoping that this much belated act may miraculously revive my living room companion. Alas, that remains to be seen.

Merry Christmas!

Baby, it's cold outside

2008-12-12T19:42:00.013-05:00

Oh, Lady winter, you brazen one! You've huffed, and you've puffed, until you blew all of the snow down on us mere mortals. And winter hasn't even begun!

Coat: "Luzia" slash-pocket wool coat by Mackage

Jeans: Second

Boots: Jump

Gloves: Tristan

Renaissance

2008-12-11T00:27:00.007-05:00

What's in Your Wardrobe?

2008-12-04T14:40:00.016-05:00

If I were asked this very question, I wouldn't know what to answer. Despite the fact that I don't own that many clothes to begin with (the amount of clothes I give away being highly disproportionate to the amount of clothes I acquire), I still never seem to be able to remember what fills my tiny wardrobe. And given that I no longer want to collect "orphans", which would without a doubt end up on the next giveaway pile (here comes Santa!), I've recently somewhat reorganized the closet (it's a work in progress) in order to get an actual, tangible idea of what's in there, but most importantly in order to explore uncharted stylistic territories in the hopes of curbing unnecessary, impulsive spending.

I was pleasantly surprised to discover hidden gems amid the small barrage of garments (excuse the oxymoron), as well as novel combinations which had never caught my eye until now.

In the first issue of Luxury Report Magazine, Montreal-based image expert Monica de Liz provides five helpful tips on how to reorganize your closet in order to optimize your current wardrobe. Read the article here.

Problem Solved

2008-11-26T22:15:00.013-05:00

"It is only shallow people who do not judge by appearances. The true mystery of the world is the visible, not the invisible."- Oscar Wilde

I certainly don't waste any time (that's not necessarily a good thing!), having solved my navy blue dilemma by racking up more credit card debt with this cream wool shawl I purchased just today. Yikes! A bittersweet victory, I assure you.

In the Navy

2008-11-25T17:01:00.017-05:00

What's up with the color navy blue? I think I have a love-hate relationship with good ol' bleu marine at this very instant.

There's apparently no consensus on whether navy blue can be worn with black, with some stating that the pairing of these very similar hues simply looks horrible while others contend that the latter is acceptable provided that it is done correctly.

But how do you know if you've done it correctly?

I, for instance, have innocently paired navy blue tops with either a black cardigan, or black cozy, or black blazer, what have you, while never giving it a second thought. I simply went with what I owned. Now, some combinations did seem off-putting after the fact, but others did not appear to break any stylistic rule in my eyes. It worked! And I didn't know that navy blue and black was a supposed no-no back then!

In spite of this, I must admit that I've recently been avoiding the few navy blue items in my wardrobe due to the fact that I no longer want to pair them with black. And because I somewhat now agree with this fashion rule (although rules of any sort are meant to be broken!) But, the truth of the matter is that even with a colorful belt, the navy blue seems to simply fade into the background when paired with black (trust me, I've tried it!).

But if I've got nothing but black, what is a girl to do?

Well, while doing a bit of research, I found out that navy blue can be matched with lighter colors such as white, off-white, beige, cream, gold, light grey, yellow, red, green, and brown. While I don't agree with all of these pairings (green?!), I definitely see how most of these colors could add more vibrancy to a navy blue outfit than simply black. And I suppose that that's the idea, to be a bit more experimental and bold with our pairings of garments in order to create stylish, sophisticated, and memorable looks, such as these:

Navy blue has never looked so good!

If it wasn't hellishly cold in Montreal, I would have no problem sporting a look like the one above, not having to fret over what color to wear over my navy blue. But, that just isn't the case!

I like the idea of pairing navy blue and brown, but I suspect that it might not work with my dark complexion. A variation on the color brown might suit me better, such as mocca, a muted moss green, or my all-time favorite taupe, but I find it difficult to find these specifics hues when perusing boutiques and department stores.

And most importantly, I wonder: Is it worth purchasing a cardigan, cozy, shawl, cozy or blazer in any one of these colors simply to match it with a few navy blue items that could simply be worn alone once Spring rolls back into town? Hmm...

Pictures via The Sartorialist

Guilty as Charged

2008-11-20T13:27:00.022-05:00

I'm usually one to easily dispense advice without once thinking of applying it to my own life, but I can proudly say that I've recently followed all three sound pieces of advice which I cited in my previous post, namely taking advantage of sales, planning shopping trips so as to only purchase what will complement what I already own, and finally, being creative and exploiting the versatility of my clothes. Now, while the results are in no way mind blowing, avant-garde statements of style (I'm more of a minimalist in any case), putting together these ensembles was indeed an exercise in discipline, restraint, and ingenuity.

Exhibit A: Being creative

Now, this may not seem like a creative pairing in any way, shape or form, but as one with an unwavering allegiance to black, this little outfit above clearly demonstrates how I stepped outside of my comfort zone by not only choosing to wear a bold color like indigo, but also pairing it with something other than black! Now imagine if that grey top had been yellow. Whoa! I wonder if I could pull that off?!

Exhibit B: Exploiting the versatility of clothes

I purchased this little tube top during the summer, and would usually wear it alone with a pair of shorts on sizzling hot days, but here I decided to wear it over a basic grey t-shirt, and black jeans, which I recently purchased on sale. I also think that this black tube top would look good when worn alone with a cinching belt around the waist.

By the way, I must say a few words about these Second "yoga" jeans, which are by far the most comfortable pair of jeans I have ever worn! These jeans fit like a glove, and feel like you could do anything from cartwheels to downward dog in these babies! Hence, why they were baptized the "yoga" jean, I think!

Exhibit C: Something old with something new

I paired this new grey tunic sweater bought on sale with an orangy belt (ok, so I cheated a bit. I purchased this belt at regular price, but in my defense, I bought it at Winners, and everyone knows that Winners is the discount store par excellence!), and I topped this ensemble with an old blazer, which I've managed to revive after a year of it standing idle in my closet. And to think that I was ready to get rid of it! I think that my giving away clothes is a sickness. While other women now strut around in my old clothing worn in far more creative ways than I could ever imagine, I stand here scraping by with the few clothes I wasn't crazy enough to part with! I must stop this insanity!

Now, I hope to be able to create more new ensembles by pairing garments that I never thought to put together in the hopes that doing so will curb my spending, at least for a little while. And it is definitely uplifting to see that thinking a little bit outside the box can incidentally breathe new life into clothes we initially no longer believed to be useful. Here here!

Watchful Eye

2008-11-08T18:31:00.010-05:00

Although the current recession has yet to travel north of the border, experts argue that an economic slump is imminent, and as such, this girl is very worried! Pinching pennies isn't exactly my strong suit, but it's a skill worth honing for the difficult times to come. Exercising restraint, as well as making far more calculated, rather than impulse purchases are now on my agenda. The question is: How can we all save money without forgoing our pursuit of chic? While pondering this very question, I came to these obvious, but well worth repeating solutions.

- Take full advantage of sales, which are bound to happen as consumers' fear of spending will drive retailers to slash prices.

- Just as you would prepare a grocery list, make a habit of planning your shopping trips, thus only stocking up on much-needed items, rather than purchasing unnecessary things.

-Finally, be creative. Be-be-creative! Desperate times call for desperate measures. Learn to create new combinations, and make an effort to expand your existing wardrobe by exploiting the versatility of clothes.

Oh Boy!

2008-11-02T18:36:00.031-05:00

"Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society."- Mark Twain

My boyfriend Nemanja is many things: cute, charming, educated, selfless, energetic, sweet, polite, funny, athletic, positive, loving, and oh so wise. Unfortunately, I find that most often than not, his clothes do very little to emphasize his many positive traits. To my utter discontent, he walks around in ill-fitting jeans which he constantly has to pull up, horrendous shapeless white tees over which he wears nothing but hoodies, and he tops off this look with oversized baseball caps!!! There's one cap in particular, a turquoise and purple monstrosity that I loathe so much that I once hid from him for days before he found it in my bottom drawer! I just find that the style he's adopted does not suit his personality, and I've mentioned it to him on several occasions. What I've come to realize is that sometimes, there's a huge disparity between how we dress and how we wish we could dress.

Nemanja is a case in point.

Like many people, myself included, my boyfriend attributes his lack of chic to a virtually empty piggy bank. Now, while it is true that shallow pockets may prevent one from dressing at one's best, it certainly doesn't mean that you can't find frugal ways to express your personal style. Patience is key in this process. While something may seem out of reach at first, always remember that clothes go on sale at mid or end of season. If you just can't wait to get your hands on that which you covet, I suggest doing the rounds of cheaper retail stores which will most often than not carry a less expensive "knock-off". After all, it is a known fact that retail stores simply duplicate runway looks. Until you can get your hands on the real deal, just fake it (but don't buy cheap knockoffs from street vendors-not cool!).

Sadly for me, Nemanja isn't entirely convinced. He still seems to believe that his true personal style is unattainable as long as money remains an issue. I suspect that the lack of good old dollars bills is used as an excuse for simply not really knowing where to start. I haven't told him this, of course, but instead took him on a couple of shopping trips in order to observe him in the act of perusing the shelves. What I've noticed is that the items I secretly desired for him to pick out would naturally end up in his "shopping cart"! When the "tab" would exceed his intended limit, but the item was a must-have, I volunteered to pick it up for him (that's what lovers are for, after all. You scratch my back, I scratch yours!). Now, I can proudly say that his wardrobe has somewhat evolved to one that is representative of the man I have grown to love. He looks dashing in his crisp shirts, striped sweaters and cardigan, baseball caps nowhere in sight. Yes!! But most importantly, his look speaks volumes about the personable individual that he is. It makes him seem all the more approachable and less threatening, all the while retaining his playful nature.

But old habits are hard to kick, and so Neno still wears his shapeless white tees, his ill-fitting jeans, and vehemently refuses to tuck in his shirt when wearing a sweater over it. It drives me insane, but I have not lost faith. He may not realize this now, but clothes are not just what we use to cover ourselves up. The clothes that we chose to wear become an extension of how we view ourselves, and consequently how others see us. There's a reason why people are elated, or even get emotional after a drastic makeover: the change it brings forth is not only visible on the surface, but it is skin deep. A makeover not only fashions a new look, but the new you, which incidentally represents the real you.

Untitled

2008-10-25T19:22:00.002-04:00

Can't Find the Words to Say...

2008-10-25T17:56:00.024-04:00

I'm at a loss for words. Maybe these ensembles are nothing more than ensembles, which do not merit any accompanying commentary whatsoever. Perhaps, I should let pictures speak for themselves, let them say whatever it is that they wish to say, simply because there is no story behind them from my point of view. Hence, I leave it to you to conjure up whatever narrative these images stir up in your imagination...On my way to a job interview, a formal affair, a secret rendez-vous, perhaps...Far more interesting than whatever bit of backstory I could possibly provide for this choice of attire.

Not sure what it is I want to say... Actually, a fellow blogger echoed my sentiments exactly, and expressed them in such a direct manner.

I feel as though personal style cannot be discussed with the same intensity and verve used to discuss the world of fashion in general, which encompasses a history, a social phenomenon, ethical boundaries, an economy, and a business perspective. What is to say about one's personal style? I'm not sure any engrossing dialogue can come of it, and that ultimately, our display of our personal style choices for the world to see can only do so much. It may inspire, garner praise, or criticism, and finally serve as a compass for our own evolution. Other than that, why should people care about what I chose to wear? And truthfully, my sparse fashion snapshots simply do not lend themselves to the kind of writing that I wish to do. I originally thought they could, but I now realize that I was wrong. Again, I could not have said it better myself!

I am beginning to feel that what I view as my somewhat narcissistic contribution to the blogosphere is doing nothing more than polluting it. It is time for me to shift my focus. It's time for me to join the discussion, in the hopes of bringing something new to the table, like this for instance. So, from now on, I think I will let the pictures speak for themselves (perhaps serving as an online lookbook that I can refer to), until I can figure out how to contribute to the vibrant discourse on fashion, a world defined by far more than the simple act of dressing up.

The Beauty of Trench

2008-10-20T20:23:00.006-04:00

Introducing "Harajuku Lovers" Fragrance- A Fatal Attraction to Cuteness

2008-10-18T17:30:00.044-04:00

"A woman who does not wear perfume has no future."- Coco Chanel

Perhaps these words spoken by the late Coco Chanel are a bit of the extreme, but nonetheless, yours truly wholeheartedly believes that perfume, much like diamonds, are a girl's best friend- that is, unless your natural scent is like that of an aphrodisiac so powerful that suitors line up at your front door like stubborn bargain hunters on Boxing Day! Now perfume is in no way mandatory, myself having gone without it for years, but a little mist here and there has certainly served me well once I adopted this most pleasant daily ritual.

My fragrances of choice usually fall along the lines of sexy, feminine, and elegant scents such as Insolence by Guerlain, or Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel, but when the Toronto-based marketing firm Matchstick asked me to review Gwen Stefani's fun new fragrance Harajuku Lovers, this perfume aficionado in training just couldn't say no!

Harajuku Lovers fragrance comprises 5 different scents which embody the unique personalities of Stefani and the members of her Japanese performance quartet. Dubbed "Baby", "G", "Lil' Angel, "Love", and "Music", these fragrances are an ode to cuteness, made evident through the packaging and marketing of the product. If cuteness is the name of the game, well there's no doubt that Harajuku Lovers hits a home run!

Of the 5 fragrances, I was given the 10ml retail format "Lil' Angel" fragrance for review. Very cute packaging, the plastic figurine so evocative of those Russian stacking dolls that all of us have enjoyed playing with at least once in our lives, except that in this case, you only have one under which is placed the fragrance. Incidentally, "Lil' Angel" happens to be my favorite of the entire bunch. It is a strong, but not too strong concoction of fruity floral scents. I like the fact that I can't quite put my finger on the ingredients used to create this one, which I find adds an appealing shroud of mystery to it.

Following closely behind, "Baby", like the name so appropriately denotes, is a powdery whiff truly evocative of sweet, refreshing baby powder. Oh, how I wish I could turn back the hands of time!

"Love" is a sweet and sensuous aroma. Perfect for a special rendez-vous! It will certainly do when your more sophisticated fragrances run out!

"Music" resembles "Lil' Angel", but is a more delicate version. Subtle in effect.

Finally, "G" happens to be my least favorite. I liked it at first, but I soon realized that it is too strong, too sweet, and too engulfing a scent. The smell of coconut takes center stage in this production, and for someone with an intense aversion to anything coconut flavored, I must give "G" a thumbs down.

Hence, Harajuku Lovers is a winning fragrance in as much as it offers perfume lovers a choice of five different scents introduced in an inventive, cute, and playful package. Yes, each fragrance is cute, but in my opinion, cute is the prerogative of tweens, exuberant and young-spirited folks, and Gwen Stefani (she does cute very well!) I'm definitely not cute anymore, nor do I wish to be because frankly, everyone knows I'm just an old nana masquerading as an energetic 20-something! (just kidding- I have plenty of energy, I assure you!). While this fragrance is not for the likes of understated folks like myself, it would make the perfect gift for a teenage girl, or the more flamboyant, bold style experimenters within your circle of friends. These scents are tailored to the cute, bubbly perfume lovers in your life, which they will surely enjoy!

Thank you Matchstick!

P.S. For anyone interested in getting samples of these fragrances, simply contact me by e-mail.

At Midnight

2008-10-11T13:29:00.012-04:00

"The trench coat is the only thing that has kept its head above water."- Jack Lipman

Mother Nature gave all of us in Montreal a little break this week, as temperatures reached highs of 15-20 degrees, enabling me to swap my wool coat for something lighter.

Thank you Mom!

The big-collar trench coat shown above is a creation from Montreal label Soia & Kyo. I cannot believe that I actually contemplated getting rid of this jem a few weeks ago! I get easily bored with clothing, which is why I initially wanted to give this one away and get my hands on a more conventional black trench. But looking at these images, I'm glad that I chose to keep it. Now, if only the weather would remain this mild for a little while longer so that I can keep sporting my favorite (well...my only) trench around town. Mother Nature, would you be so kind to grant me this one wish ?

Summer's End (Of course-It's October!)

2008-10-04T21:13:00.015-04:00

"Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it."-Russell Baker

I know that summer officially ended on September 21st, only to give way to fall in all its splendor, but the sudden drop in temperature we've experienced in Montreal this past week has got me cranking up the heat in the apartment while I yearn for lazy days on the beach, and picnics in the gardens. Alas, as I painfully try to recreate somewhat of a tropical summer using the electrical heating system of this "Park Ave. Penthouse", I now leave you with fond memories of delectable summer days gone by (sigh).

Bejeweled

2008-10-01T18:54:00.030-04:00

"It is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure."- Coco Chanel

What adorns my hairy, ill-manicured hand, you ask? Well, it's none other than a custom-made ring bracelet, which I've coveted for the longest time! My tendre moitié "surprised" me with this beautiful piece of jewelry on my 25th birthday. I haven't worn it since, as this delicate treasure would most definitely not survive the rough, hands-on nature of my hurried, hectic, and, most often than not, bumpy day-to-day, but in the meantime, I save it for the special occasion which calls for an understated yet elegant accessory to accompany, well... an understated, yet elegant ensemble!

Disheveled

2008-09-20T13:06:00.023-04:00

"The finest clothing made is a person's skin, but of course, society demands something more than this."- Mark Twain

I didn't have very much luck at the shops this week, so I'm not at the top of my "sartorial game", so to speak, as I'm struggling with the remnants of my wardrobe from my merciless closet purge a few days ago. But I believe that I'm getting close by sporting more neutral and dark colors, like dark blue, grey, and my all-time favorite, black. I've been told that indigo really suits me, and I've noticed that myself, which is why I've extended the olive branch to this bright color, and have consequently incorporated it into my very "colorful" wardrobe!

A new acquisition of mine is this gorgeous short-sleeve black bow top. I really, really love it. I paired it with a grey cardigan since it was a bit frisky that day. Two things I would have done differently though, is wear a darker or black pair of skinny jeans, and a black trench instead of my H&M cargo jacket for a more sophisticated, less casual look. Oh well, there's always next time. You live, and you learn!

By the way (I'm sorry for always plugging Montreal, but I do live here after all!), if you happen to be in the city, do pass by Le Jardin Botanique de Montreal for the exquisite "La Magie des Lanternes" exhibit in the Chinese Garden. The show runs until October 31st, and I highly recommend it, especially for a casual night out with boyfriend in tow!

Renewal

2008-09-17T20:41:00.026-04:00

"In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock."- Thomas Jefferson

Ever since I turned 25, I've felt the sudden need to make drastic life changes. I suppose that it's because I've finally crossed over to the 25-49 year old bracket, and am now a quarter of a century old (Yikes!). This akward yet welcomed event has prompted me to relinquish all things of youth (well, just the foolish things of course, like whining, fussing, and fretting over the small stuff), and take possession of the future, instead of waiting for someone else to do it for me. And oddly enough, I've decided to begin my purge of all things youthful in my wardrobe of all places!

Hence, a few evenings ago, I stood before my closet, staring blankly at what I would describe as a bevy of way too colorful and girlish clothes, uncertain of where to begin. Fortunately, my boyfriend-who had voluntarily agreed to help me sort through this monstrous heap-was patiently waiting on the bed for me to commence my one-woman show!

And so, I tried each and every piece of clothing I already intended to rid myself of, parading before my audience of one, impatiently awaiting a "yes", "no", or "maybe" answer.

After this extremely painful and long exercise, the bulk of my wardrobe ended up in the "no" pile. A couple of items made their way back to the closet, while I carefully placed the "maybes" in a separate drawer for use as items to wear indoors on cold winter nights.

How did I feel afterwards? Well, I certainly began to hyperventilate when I saw how sparse my closet had become! I mean, there was so little left that I could see the other side of the wall through my thinly dispersed clothes! But I don't know why I feel this way given that I had already stopped wearing most of what I had just gotten rid of. Needless to say, I felt apprehensive about the future, as I became well aware that I would struggle even more each morning with coming up with new, and stylish outfits to wear. However, I also feel excited about this opportunity to restock my wardrobe with clothes that I will actually want, need, and wear! No more impulse buys (I hope!), no more orphans (clothes that never see the light of day given that they still hang in your closet with the pricetag attached!), no more trendy purchases for trends' sake! No more!! It's time for the clothes that I wear to reflect the person that I am, here and now, 100%.

This week, I gave all of my unwanted clothes and shoes to a friend of mine who absolutely loves frilly, bright-colored things. I'm more that happy to see that my "trash" will become someone else's treasure, and serve them well.

As for me, I'm off to the shops, as I've got a lot of work to do, and now, more than ever, time is of the essence!

My Fashion Inspiration

2008-09-08T19:57:00.011-04:00

"Fashion is very important. It is life-enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well."- Vivienne Westwood

My friend Melanie has always had an impeccable sense of style. Back in our college days, she always dressed to impress, and seemed to do so effortlessly. Since then, her style has significantly evolved, especially given her recent leap from university grad to career woman, but her signature has remained the same.

I've learned quite a bit about finding my own stylistic voice while on our many spur-of-the-moment shopping trips between classes. Mel has taught me how to choose the right cuts for my body type; she's given me an extensive pool of knowledge on pairing garments, and she's the undisputed expert on what I like to call "investment pieces", classic garments that are worth the price tag given their versatility, high quality, and practicality.

Hence, a little tribute to the chicest girl I know, a modern-day Grace Kelly; one with a mindful eye on fashion trends while unconsciously setting some of her own.

One and the same

2008-08-31T19:30:00.024-04:00

"Your dresses should be tight enough to show you're a woman, but loose enough to show you're a lady."- Edith Head

The Little Black Dress- I wonder how I managed without it for so long! I wear this little number often, but I pair it with different accessories and shoes, which breathes new life into it. Whether you're going for a casual or more classic look, the little black dress is a no frills, sure way to go. It is an indispensable addition to any wardrobe, a timeless piece and well worth the investment.

The one above is from Complex Geometries, an independent Montreal label, while the belt is a vintage find from Maskarad.

The truth is, although I absolutely adored the cut, I had my little black dress slightly altered to make it more practical given my unusual case of the shivers (it originally had a fairly longer, and more intricately woven sleeve than the other, which made it rather difficult for me to wear a cardigan, or a blazer over it). Fortunately for me, the finished product isn't a far cry from the original!

So, how do you wear your little black dress?

Less is more

2008-08-27T11:51:00.011-04:00

"Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity."- Plato

This, to me, is a winning look for so many reasons, namely the unique cut of her blazer; the cool leopard print lining; the contrasting turtleneck, the eye-popping necklace, and finally, a touch of red to add vibrancy to an otherwise neutral ensemble. Her look exemplifies just how little is needed to make a powerful statement. Well done, wouldn't you say?

Procrastination

2008-08-22T21:30:00.009-04:00

"Procrastination is the thief of time."- Unknown

While dutifully procrastinating, I stumbled accross this telling short film about - you guessed it- Procrastination!!!

Enjoy ;-)

All Hail Stripes?

2008-08-15T22:20:00.030-04:00

"Once you can accept the universe as being something expanding into an infinite nothing which is something, wearing stripes with plaid is easy."- Albert Einstein

Now, I've always loved stripes. And, as such, striped garments have always made up a significant part of my wardrobe. In my eyes, a striped sweater or blouse can look quite flattering, refine one's appearance, and provide just the right touch of ornateness without going over the top.

Although many people, namely fashion experts and critics, greatly discourage wearing stripes (of the horizontal variety, specifically), stating how unfashionable, and unflattering they are, I can't help but adore them, and swear allegiance to them. I've noticed that I do not own many clothes with vertical stripes (the slimming kind-which are seemingly not frowned upon, but rather encouraged), while horizontal stripes permeate my wardrobe (the ones touted as bad, very very bad).

And while I understand why many would advise against wearing horizontal stripes, as they apparently can make the wearer look wider, I believe that it isn't so much the sporting of stripes themselves, but rather the execution, which in the end really determines whether the overall look is a "hit" or "miss". And judging by the recurring presence of stripes in boutiques, stores, and on the runway, I figure that they must have a certain appeal in order to have garnered such staying power within the ever-changing world of fashion.

Yana Collection: The Epitome of Chic

2008-08-10T01:45:00.017-04:00

When I first stumbled upon Russian-born Chicagoan Yana German's Yana Collection, I immediately exclaimed, "This is it! This woman gets it!" Former ballerina and ballroom dancer turned independent high-end designer, German channels the style and elegance of Old Hollywood, keeping the modern woman in mind, to create truly feminine pieces which epitomize classic chic in the purest sense of the word.

This relatively new designer's Fall 2008 collection exemplifies everything that I've always believed modern classic chic should be, that is, well-structured, perfectly tailored garments with curve-defining lines, adorned with beautiful chiffon and lace, and made of soft, luxurious, and sheer fabrics, which will not crumple at the slightest lift of an arm! Sophisticated clothing enabling women to glam it up, look sexy, and exude confidence, all in good taste and always with class...and mostly in black! The classiest color there is! (I'm elated, can't you see?!)

In sum, German is one progressive designer who understands the concept of elegance, and tailors it to fit in with modern times, and as such, her signature line of business casual feminine clothing is one that I hope to see flourish in the years to come.

Yves Saint Laurent: Une rétrospective au MBAM

2008-08-07T20:17:00.022-04:00

"Chanel a donné la liberté aux femmes. Yves Saint Laurent leur a donné le pouvoir."- Pierre Bergé

If you live in Montreal, or happen to stop by, do take the time to check out "Love: Yves Saint Laurent", an exhibit showcasing the groundbreaking work of the late designer. A most fascinating look at 40 years of innovative fashion by the man who has revolutionized womenswear, and redefined femininity through unprecedented creations imbued with his unique vision. The exhibit is currently presented at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal until September 28th, after which it will move on to the Young Museum of San Franscisco. A show not to be missed!

Erdem Moralioglu

2008-08-04T21:45:00.019-04:00

Just the other day, I discovered a fabulous designer while chatting with a friend of mine.

While Erdem Moralioglu hails from Montreal, the Royal College of Art graduate now works out of London, fashioning the most whimsical yet elegant and sophisticated creations in womenswear today. Here is a peak at my favorite pieces from the Fall 2008 collection, which (no surprise here!), I would describe as the most classic, understated, and chic pieces of the lot. But one need not worry given that this highly creative and imaginitive designer also has something for the likes of fierce, eclectic, and exuberant dressers alike.

The Power of Dress

2008-07-31T17:42:00.011-04:00

"Look for the woman in the dress. If there is no woman, there is no dress"- Coco Chanel

For as long as I can remember, I've always shied away from wearing skirts, especially dresses, which I consider to be the epitome of feminine elegance. Instead, I've almost always sported jeans, and pants with the ultimate goal being not to draw any attention to myself. I simply wanted to remain anonymous, and I've always associated very feminine clothing like the dress to be highly conspicuous (I was young and foolish-what can I say?!). Fortunately, as I've gotten older (and wiser, I hope ;-), I've realized that my refusal to wear dresses stemmed from a lack of confidence, to be frank. I simply never thought that I was beautiful enough, nor worthy of wearing such beautiful and enhancing clothes.

At 24, although I have yet to accept to register as a full-fledged adult in society, dodging the many bullets of responsibility (career, financial, personal ;-( ), I surprisingly feel the urge, the desire, and the need to show the world ( and prove to myself, really) that I am no longer a child, but a woman coming into her own, and I've come to use the dress as my instrument of choice. I feel that the rest will follow once I present myself in the way that I should be perceived-as I am.

Although an expensive impulse buy (it's a funny story, actually. I misread the price tag, and was too embarrassed not to go through with the sale, so I bought it and took it home- My bank account said Ouch!!!), I've fallen in love with this number. The light fabric (Baumwolle cotton), so comfortable yet chic, while the cut mirrors the shape of my body to a t. When a piece of clothing fits that well, I can't help but exude confidence in it. There's something empowering about clothes that are perfectly tailored to you, like a super hero costume. The dress then serves its purpose-it reflects who I am, enables me to show the world what I'm really about.

I find that this dress perfectly represents me. Myself, while in it declares: "World, here I am- woman, soft-spoken, simple, yet sophisticated, smart, down-to-earth, let me show you what I can do!

Une Femme Tout de Noir

2008-07-29T22:52:00.005-04:00

"Style is primarily a matter of instinct"- Bill Blass

As simple as it appears, this predominantly black outfit is one of the few stylistic concoctions in my meager wardrobe that I truly adore. I feel almighty and powerful, like nothing can stop me in this monochromatic getup! I feel sexy, playful, mysterious, and I think that it has a lot to do with the spontaneity behind this look.

When I woke up the morning I first donned this ensemble, I felt the way I always feel when I come to the unfortunate conclusion that I've worn everything that I own, and simply cannot think of a novel combination suitable enough to deceive the eye of those who have already seen me in, well... everything that I own!

In an utter state of despair, I simply began by putting on my favorite items (you know, the ones that are in constant rotation!) in sequence, beginning with my American Apparel leggings, followed by my Bleu Marine off shoulder body-hugging tunic, my striped Costa Blanca halter top, and finally, my H&M cargo jacket. I donned my JUMP boots, and before I knew it, I was out the door in a new combination I had never thought of before-silly me!

Looking back now, I think a nice finishing touch would have been a cinched belt, or on second thought, maybe a belt would have been too much. Either way, my closet always so lacking, I don't doubt that the opportunity to wear this impromptu number will come up again, and quite often, in the near future.