Igloofest 2012 Jan 01 2012

80s Igloofest Time Machine, we took over the Sapporo one piece contest!

Music, Music, Music!

PETA please don’t email me I’m just a blogger….

Even his faulty zipper can’t kill his swag

“My name is Hooooov!” For those that don’t know, that’s Jay-z, just saying….

From Russia with Love

Sapporo seems to have made alot of people happy that night

Jungle Fever

Friday the 13th, literally

Happiness

Cool runnings!

We’re with the DJ…ok?

And now for a fun post. When I moved to Montreal, I heard what I believed were Urban Myths of girls running around in short dresses without stockings in the winter, people jogging in -20 and snow storms that can wipe out smart cars (ok that’s a bit of an exaggeration). I have made it a point to prove to myself how tough I really am by slowly accumulating to this dreadful cold. What better way than attending a huge, outdoor music show that takes place over 3 weekends called Igloofest. Apparently, this is a yearly staple of the Montreal nightlife and I was ready to get initiated. Fully equipped, in 80s snow bunny attire with my elegantly neon’ed out friends we went….and conquered. I didn’t even notice that my hands were a  nice shade of barney purple, proof of the good time going down. The DJs were perfect, Germany’s Tiefschwarz rocked what could of easily been a crowd of 2000 in front of the main stage while the rest of the happy kids were either in the Virgin Mobile Tent (my favorite place), downing Sapporo Beer like it was water or participating in the one piece contest. Did I mention the people watching is amusing enough in itself?

I’m officially a convert and going again next Friday to check out the dj’s and maybe dance a bit…just maybe…

Check out www.igloofest.ca for more info and a sampler of last week by Virgin Mobile below


Tagged , , , , , , , / Leave a comment / Igloofest, Igloofest Montreal, Sapporo Canada, Virgin Mobile
Lor G:Jewellery Dec 12 2011

Steven Dahan Owner -Designer and his faithful companion

Unisex woven skull bracelets

Cufflinks for the edgy bunch

My perfect girls set

Custom Necklaces

Sleek…..

When I walked into Steven’s office, I knew there would be some cool pieces I was about to get shown. Not only does he design Lor G and boho-rock inspired jewelerry line that can easily be unisex with almost every piece but he’s also an artist (see the paintings in his portrait pic). The pieces created specialize in materials like sterling and oxidized silver, semi-precious stones, steel and leather. The inspiration for the line gave birth from the unique combination of medieval England, infamous biker gangs and my favorite band of all time, Guns n’ Roses. What’s even cooler is that the line is created, manufactured, distributed and HANDMADE in Montreal, Canada (go local talent!)

In addition to Lor G, Steven’s latest line Mahayana Jewels which is inspired by Buddhist Monks is also stirring quite a fashion buzz…

For info on picking up some pieces or custom requests email him at: steven@lorgold.com and check out www.lorgjewellery.com


Tagged , , , / Leave a comment / Lor G Jewellery, Montreal Fashion, Montreal Jewellery, Montreal Shopping, Montreal Street Style, Montreal Style
Varvatos:Montreal Dec 12 2011

One of the coolest brand tags I’ve seen in a while

Wall Art

Industrial feel of the furnishings really fits the brand image

Ty Kaui, the Varvatos Quebec PR rep and my fab host!

The Dream Rock N Roll Library

Stompin’ Around in Style

I would make this unisex….

Texture

Accessories Table

In stores right now…..

The Varvatos Man

Varvatos office in Montreal? What! For anyone that really knows me, can tell you that I have quite an obsession with men’s fashion and Varvatos being in my top 5 (not to mention the wonderful scent of their colognes gentleman!).

Back to the office, I had the chance to meet Ty their Quebec PR girl. I clearly wasted no time inviting myself over to check out their coveted space right across the Bell Center. The building itself is quite historical, bricks, industrial loft interior…very New York…very style….very Varvatos.

The showroom opened in August. The walls are covered in Rock-N-Roll artwork which by the way Varvatos bought into the right for quite a bit of it. Not only is rock-n-roll exemplified on the walls, but in the collection itself. Stunning leather pieces, military boots, raw denims – pieces with an edge but that can be worn very easily at the same time. This to me represents the perfect men’s line: quality, flare and wear ability.

Montreal is such a key city in the Canadian fashion industry that opening this showroom was the right next step in bringing in retailers to the cutting edge of fashion. The lucky company that gets to run this is Throat Threads. Varvatos must really believe in these guys when he said “”I am very excited to partner with Russ Fearon and his team. They are the best of the best. Canada has always been an important market for John Varvatos, and this gives us a much better service level and an opportunity to grow.”

Welcome to Montreal John and here’s a little rock tribute:


Tagged , , , , / 4 Comments / John Varvatos, Montreal, Montreal Fashion, Montreal Style, Runway, Showroom Montreal, Styling, Throat Threads Apparel
RSVP Mag Launch:2 Nov 11 2011

J’adore swings and glowing trees

Brahm Mauer always providing the best bar services in town

Arm Candy

Olivier Gagnon from www.galeriemx.com

How pretty are these!?

All that glitters is gold

Rafael Estrella Dunn (St. Laurent Spa Owner)

Alexander Wang, Emily Deane & Thomas Savas

Don’t Tell My Booker (Stevie B. Hamron & Brahms Yaiche)

Maya Sardouk & Carolina Gallo from RSVP Magazine

Arnaud Ferrand (www.ateliersetsaveurs.com) & Josh Silver

Caroline Theoret makeup station provided glossy lips and sparkly eyes all night

Styling ladies Annie D. & Fafa Khan

Tuesday night was host to the launch of the 2nd issue of Montreal’s Society Magazine RSVP. The location was quite hidden, in an empty larger loft space called WAVE. I had my doubts at first as to how the setup would be like but was very pleasantly surprised. The lighting and decor were ideal to match the industrial feel of the space. Brahm Mauer services setup the bar area perfectly as it became the center of all the socializing and gathering of the night. The touch of the Caroline Theoret makeup stations to blot all the “glowing” faces and add a bit of blush was a clever idea and was fully taken advantage of by me and the girls. I was too busy mingling to try the hors d’oeuvres provided by Le Pois Penche but by their presentation there was no doubt the taste must of matched the look….

Good looking crowd, great music, and representatives from pretty much every industry in the city made it an enjoyable night out in a distinct space. The magazine is now out in some of Montreal’s hottest spots and I managed to contribute some of my photographic eye to a few of the spreads in there as well, check check them out :)

www.rsvpmagazine.ca for more info…..


Tagged , , , , / Leave a comment / Brahm Mauer, Le Pois Penche, Montreal, Montreal Events, Montreal Fashion, Montreal Style, RSVP Magazine, fashion
Marche : Mackage Oct 10 2011

Pyramid Studding at its finest

Gloves Galore

The “Oceana” leather

A sea of studs….!

Tre-Bz8 Blazer, one of my favorite items at the sale

Girls, bring your guys…

The Big Fashion Quebec Designer Sale (yes that’s what its called) or Braderie De Mode Quebecois in French is one of Montreals most sought after sample sales. Racks and racks and lineups and lineups were encountered when I popped by on the vip opening night on the 19th. One of the favorites of course is Montreal raised and bred Mackage and for some reason I was in the mood for studs, I think the 80s child in me came out full force that night. So many great pieces and accessories studded in every way possible. Jackets, gloves, dresses, tops….Michael Jackson would of been proud! If your not a big fan of the edgier side of things, theres hundreds of pieces that literally suit every taste and yea, the deals are pretttty good. (High five to Elly for the photo help!)

The sale runs until this Sunday, for more info go to http://www.braderiedemodequebecoise.com


Tagged , , , , / Leave a comment / La Braderie De Mode Quebecois, Mackage, Marche Bonsecours, Montreal, Montreal Events, Montreal Shopping, Old Montreal, Soia & Kyo
V Hazelton Oct 10 2011

While I was brunching in Yorkville’s “One”, I noticed V Hazelton, a very cool men’s boutique across the street. What was even more eye catching were the 3 gentleman standing in front in slick suits, smoking cigars & wearing these Italian made beautiful dress shoes (only $1800…..only…) Whatever the price I love them, the European in me got giddy!

Enjoy….


Tagged , , , , / 3 Comments / One Yorkville, Toronto Fashion, Toronto Shopping, Toronto Style, V Hazelton, Yorkville Shopping
Nuda Salon Sep 09 2011

NUDA Magazine

Stephane Azoulay (Nuda Hair Stylist), Elly & Owner Leroy Williams

Twizzies!

Back in Black

Saint Crystal – Sparkly!

Sinks In Style

So luxe! Evgeny Loukianenkov for www.evgenycosmetics.com

The People

Yes I want to bathe in these Oysters!

Models & Models & Models

Coco like…..

Anthony Atiyeh

It’s layer season….

Oliver Czap

My first ever Bixi Bike ride in what else but bright red platforms took place making my way to Nuda Salon’s Exclusive Art Book launch. It represented 9 years of collaboration and inspiration with top fashion people in the industry featuring photographs from 5 of the cities top photographers.

A staple on the Avant Garde salon circuit, I was nothing short of impressed. A sleek minimalistic interior with jet black sinks and specifically styled for the salon wall posters that had a very editorial feel. Aside the regular salon essentials, you can also find Evgeny Cosmetics luxury crocodile skin makeup bags and Kissette cashmere brushes. Overall the whole concept really feels high end, owner Leroy Williams clearly has a sense of aesthetic borrowed from his work travels to Paris, New York and London. The event boasted white tents set up on the street with hair whippin’ music, a bathtub filled with oysters, great people watching and designer heels to easily fill a walk in.

Check Checka www.nuda-online.com to book your appointment or just hang out…


Tagged , , , , , / 1 Comment / Hair Salon Montreal, Montreal, Montreal Events, Montreal Fashion, Montreal Street Style, Montreal Style
MFW 21 : Soia & Kyo Sep 09 2011

Pre-Show socializing

Elly Savas in Mackage

MFW crew and friends

Fashion = Happiness

Makeup-Hair-Action

Last minute touchups

70′s Vibe…

Rock n Roll Ballerina, one of my favorite combos

Soft color tones on men

Glamoured down….

Legs & Coats

Slick!

I think this skirt might become a staple for stylists….

Lights, camera………

Finale

Soia & Kyo designer Ilan Elfassy

Go Green!…..This baggie kept all my little belongings in check all night

Elly – Laura – Annie, the three soia-ka-teers

For this season, Soia & Kyo brought out their fashion needle & threads and impressed with their ready to wear. As always however, coats & outerwear were the main focus point, perfectly paired to mute the sparkle and feather showcased on the runway. The theme varied between 70s daytime glam and retro cuts and colors, a refreshing spin on alot of darks that I was seeing from previous MFW show images. Soia & Kyo might be a little under the shadow of big sibling Mackage but seeing them growing up from just creating basic, attainable coats, shows that S&K is taking risks and doing it well. On top of that, they are pro green and staying sustainable (bonus!).

Check out www.soiakyo.com for updates and their newest collection.


Tagged , , , , , / 2 Comments / MFW 21, Mackage, Montreal, Montreal Events, Montreal Fashion, Montreal Fashion Week, Montreal Street Style, Montreal Style, Old Montreal, Runway, Sensation Mode, Soia & Kyo
MFW 21: Day 1 Sep 09 2011

Marche Bonsecours in the Old Port

Yes for the bowtie/pocket square combo! Always an eye pleaser if done right

Simon Belanger & Jose Manuel St-Jacques from UNTTLD

Cdesign’s M De Latour air kiss

Bbm, facebook, twitter, text? Me at my usual blackberry keypad routine

Cary Tauben…..nothing to say but that I adore every time I see him owning it

These ladies got it right on with their mix of materials, colors and prints

TEXTURE

Robyn Chalmers in a sea of chaos

Melissa Nepton Showcase

Nice silhouettes and drapey fabrics

Eye on detail

Safari Chic

Dimitri Chris

A jumpsuit can be sexy and fashionable

Montreal Fashion Week this season came at the worst time for me. It is hands down the busiest work month of the year and long days at the office have made it impossible for me to see and capture all the shows. In fact, I was only able to attend the last two on Day 1, and the Soia & Kyo show on Day 2. As much as I wish I could post images and share my feedback on all the shows, its true what they say, fashion and inspiration comes from the streets. Just like last season, there was no shortage of the artsy, the cool, the eccentric, the style savvy, the classic and most of all the COLORFUL. Fans, supporters, friends, industry heads came out rocking some pretty stand out pieces. A plenitude of visionary stimulation in street style was seen in the Old Port that night. On another note, I was quite impressed with Melissa Nepton’s showcase. She had a great mix of textures that flowed perfectly on the runway with a beautiful neutral palette….it had an eclectic safari feel to it. Last show of the night belonged to Dimitri Chris…think yacht…South of France…easy to wear…a European men’s flare with some very nice women’s pieces in the mix, a good end to the night. A big “Hurrah” to Sensation Mode for the organizational factor…go Canada!

Next up coverage of the Soia & Kyo Show……


Tagged , , , , , , / 2 Comments / MFW 21, Montreal Events, Montreal Fashion, Montreal Fashion Week, P&G beauty, Runway, Semaine Mode Montreal, Sensation Mode
GUCCI : BIRKS Sep 09 2011

Birks launch for the Gucci timepieces & jewellery partnership with the Recording Academy

Gucci Timepieces & jewellery marketing director Joseph Facchinei & Birks PR Eva Hartling

Josh Silver, Dax Giunta & Rachelle Segal laughing out loud….clearly

Carrie MacPherson from zurbaines.com in Costume National Booties!

Denis Gagnon in his trademark glasses…

Reds and polka dots

The Gucci/Grammy’s collaboration showcase

Man Gossip…..

Really enjoyed her take on a cocktail dress with paired down army boots

The Recording Academy’s brief history of music

Daniel Azoulay

Duc C. Nguyen’s ideal “Little Snake Book”

Liked her easy no frills style, that’s all

Can’t ever go wrong in all black…ever

Lauren Ashley and her crew of fashionable men leaving the event….

This past Thursday, Birks and Gucci hosted the launch of a special collaboration featuring timepieces & jewellery by Gucci for the Recording Academy (think Grammy’s!). I was quite impressed with a dedicated section in this beautiful space showcasing the history of the academy and some classic guitars assuming that they were once held by some legendary music figure.The collection features fun, younger modern pieces including a color variety of dog-tags and a special edition I-Gucci armed with a Grammy encrusted strap and 2-time zone dial. Spotted on the premise was Gucci’s timepieces & jewellery marketing director Joseph Facchinei (yes he has a dream-job) and Montreal Birk’s own PR leading lady Eva. Of course where there’s champagne, fancy macaroons and a one of a kind launch you’ll find great outfits, accessories and my favorite: shoes galore!

I’m getting camera ready for Montreal Fashion Week coming up shortly, meaning starting tonight….posts and updates coming very soon! Goodnight…


Tagged , , , , / 1 Comment / Birks, Birks Cafe Montreal, Gucci, Montreal Events, Montreal Shopping, Montreal Style