Booyah! Kate Middleton wears Christopher Kane for the first time (as predicted!) at an Olympic reception at Buckingham Palace | Hollywood yohana




Well, we can check one prediction off our lists. We guessed that the Olympics would be time for Kate Middleton to finally break out the Christopher Kane, and it looks like she’s done it! At a reception at Buckingham Palace earlier today, Kate donned a custom Kane coatdress to greet foreign leaders and diplomats (Michelle Obama included). While at first glance it doesn’t look like a typical page out of Kane’s book, the colour is right in line with the minty fresh wears he’s made for both spring and resort. Her clutch was relatively tried and true: a beige Alexander McQueen clutch in hand (come to think of it, how does she shake all those hands?). As for that glass of champers? Looks like you can cross those pregnancy rumours off your list, for now at least.
UPDATE: Kate wears the same get-up to the Opening Ceremonies. Way to go Kane!

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Forget about K.Stew, here’s all the info and images we could scrounge up from Liberty Ross’s amazing fashion career! | Hollywood yohana




While our reaction may not have been quite on par with Nutty Madam’s (please do yourself a favor and watch her “HOW COULD YOU DO THIS KRISTEN?!” video), we were definitely all taken by surprise when revelations of Kristen Stewart’s affair with Rupert Sanders, her much older, married-with-two-kids Snow White and the Huntsman director, came to light on Tuesday.
While we’re obviously feeling for poor, beautiful Robert Pattinson during this tumultuous time, it’s Sanders’ wife Liberty Ross who has emerged as the most sympathetic and interesting figure out of the entire debacle. Aside from a bit of cryptic social media usage, the polished Ross has remained completely mum about the whole affair so far, which of course means we’ve had to go digging on her.

So who is Ross exactly? Well, she’s a famous British model, whose long and successful career has taken her everywhere from Burberry ads with friend Kate Moss to being the face of Dior Addict Parfum’s racy, body-baring ad campaign. A favourite of Mario Testino’s, Ross was (and still is) one of the best-known models to have come out of Britain. Her many editorial appearances alongside Moss, her nab of the “Model of the Year” award at the 2000 Elle Style Awards and landing glossy covers ranging from British Vogue to French L’Officiel are just a few of her many fashion accolades. In fact, she was the one with all the star power in her and Sanders’ relationship up until very recently—SWATH was his first venture into blockbuster films.
For those of you who have been living under a rock (seriously, it’s hard to navigate the web right now without seeing some mention of Robsten), here’s a quick recap of the scandal:
Stewart (who we will forthwith only refer to as K. Stew) was captured by Us Weekly on Monday night canoodling with Sanders in an abandoned house (interesting choice). The next day, K. Stew released an uncharacteristically emotional apology to Pattinson, closely followed by a more restrained public apology from Sanders to his wife and children.
Ross, who played K. Stew’s mom in the film (we know, this story just keeps getting weirder and weirder), tweeted “Wow” just a few hours before the story broke, then de-activated her account soon after. She also allegedly instagrammed an image of a crying, alcohol-chugging Snow White with the caption “Not so pretty or pure afterall …..” (though it hasn’t been confirmed if that is indeed her account)

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California here we come! Our guide to 5 of the best places to shop in SoCal, from designer sample sales to vintage finds | Hollywood yohana





Be it a weekend at Coachella, a trek out to Orange County or a desire to live in the Hollywood Hills, it seems like there are endless reasons to head to Southern California. And given just how popular the golden state has become, we thought it was high time for a SoCal shopping guide. Our in-depth research was done during Fashion Week L.A.—or Style Fashion Week, as it’s referred to locally—and we toured the best shopping districts this booming, ready-to-wear region has to offer. From vintage finds to designer sample sales, here are five L.A.-area retail spots you can’t pass up next time you fly south.


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Get the Look: Channel Kristen Stewart’s Comic Con look with 15 trendy sneaker picks under $150 | Hollywood yohana




With the explosive popularity of Isabel Marant’s heeled sneakers, Pierre Hardy’s colour-blocked high tops and various high-fashion collabs in the works with iconic sportswear brands like Nike, Adidas and Keds, it’s clear that sneakers are having a moment. We’ve spotted some seriously stylish kicks about town — from Toronto sidewalks to the cobblestones in Paris — and we’re loving the sporty vibe these comfortable shoes bring to any outfit.

Take a lesson in style from the likes of Kristen Stewart at Comic Con and Man Repeller’s Leandra Medine by pairing high-tops with your favourite T-shirt and jeans combo, or go tennis club prepster by wearing a bright pair of sneakers with a crisp white dress. Whatever your style, we’ve got the perfect pair of sporty kicks for under $150.


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Joe Fresh hits the US big-time: The brand to open 700 shop-in-shops in J.C.Penney next spring | Hollywood yohana




Joe Fresh certainly made its New York statement with its select standalone stores and Fifth Avenue flagship, and now the brand is going for the American big-time with its just-announced partnership with J.C.Penney. Next spring, Joe will open 700 shop-in-shops inside J.C.Penney’s countrywide. Penney, which has been struggling in the last few years within the US market, obviously sees potential in Canada’s biggest brand for boosting their own standings. “We are extremely proud to partner with one of America’s most iconic department stores, especially as they embark on a retail transformation” Joe Mimran said via press release.

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Here’s a peek at what Team Canada will be wearing to the Olympic opening ceremonies tonight! | Hollywood yohana



Looks like Team Canada will be keeping it pretty cool and casual at tonight’s (today’s in time warp terms?) opening ceremonies in London. The Bay has just released a sketch of the official uniforms which features red and white colour blocked “Canada” zipped sweater over white button downs—the women’s, with traditional plaid on the placket, and the men’s with plaid ties—as well as tailored khakis and Converse-like kicks. The looks seem straight out of the Bay’s retail Olympics collection, so if you dig ‘em, you best head to the mall and pick something up while they’re hot, or enter our one-day-only contest to win!
“We want our athletes to walk in the parade wearing a stand-out piece that reflects the Canadian spirit and who we are as a nation,” said the Bay’s SVP and fashion director, Suzanne Timmins, via press release. “The Canada Parade Jacket was a natural choice and it captures Canada’s love for the outdoors. It is also practical and versatile—two characteristics we wanted to highlight when designing the look.”


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Azealia Banks is Alexander Wang’s new T girl, obviously | Hollywood yohana

It comes as no surprise that rap-loving cool kid Alexander Wang has nabbed everyone’s favourite rapper du jour Azealia Banks as the face of his latest T campaign.

The Fall 2012 campaign, which was directed by Daniel Jackson and styled by Alastair McKim, went live today exclusively on Style.. The mostly black-and-white advert shows a pouty-lipped Banks whipping her hair and flashing her amazing smile while rapping through “Van Vogue,” a single off her recent EP 1991.
“She exudes a certain rawness that makes her a very unique talent,” Wang told Style.com. “I loved working with her on this video for T Fall 2012, and think the collaboration captures a collision of energies.”
Aside from having become the next big thing in music, Banks is cementing her role as a fashion darling too. She accompanied Wang to the Met Gala this year, sparking rumours that the two had a collaboration in the works, as well as providing him with music for his Spring 2012 AW campaign featuring Liya Kebede. Wang’s not the only designer who’s taken note of her either: Karl Lagerfeld wrangled Banks into doing a private concert at his home too.
Not only does this campaign have us excited for all of Wang’s latest covetable T offerings, but it gets us even more excited about Banks’s September release of her debut album Broke With Expensive Taste!


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Go for the gold! Enter to win a Team Canada prize pack from The Hudson’s Bay! | Hollywood yohana

Go for the gold! Enter to win a Team Canada prize pack from The Hudson’s Bay!


If the popularity of the infamous Vancouver “Canada Gloves” is any indication, the Bay’s Team Canada merch is sure to sell out in a hot minute. Get your hands on this covetable prizepack featuring a Team Canada T-shirt, tank top, sweatshirt, track jacket, towel, sunglasses and of course, teddy bear!

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Kate welcomes the Olympic torch to Buckingham Palace in her own take on Team GB’s uniform (It looks perfect, of course) | Hollywood yohana




Well! In a stylish turn of events, Kate opted to save her sporty attire for this afternoon’s celebrations, which welcomed the Olympic torch to Buckingham Palace. First thought: she really has an eye for colour! You would never guess that those cobalt blue skinny jeans are not Team GB issued, but they are, in fact, Kate’s own pair from Zara. (Barefoot is one thing, but a royal in track pants? Never!) Her polo shirt is official though, part of the Adidas line of London 2012 merchandise. Kate also chose to wear wedges for the second time today, opting for an often-worn pair by Stuart Weitzman. We’re obviously into her take on Team GB’s uniform—it’s simple enough that there will surely be many Olympic attendees copying her style. So to everyone heading to tomorrow’s opening ceremonies: we’ll be watching!

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A non-Olympic reason to head to London ASAP: Chanel has opened a pop-up beauty boutique and Sophy Robson is doing manicures! | Hollywood yohana




If you happen to be in London for the Olympics, we’re warning you ahead of time: your bank account is in danger of serious depletion. Chanel is the latest label to jump on the pop-up shop bandwagon, joining the likes of Opening Ceremony by descending upon Covent Garden. (It will also be the French fashion house’s first U.K. location dedicated only to beauty and fragrance.)
The sleek, two-storey shop, which is sparingly adorned with a mosaic of Chanel beauty products and a powder-pink interlocking Cs logo, features a makeover station and manicure salon on its main floor. Though dates and details have not yet been confirmed, Sophy Robson, the go-to manicurist for fashion labels such as Louis Vuitton and notables like Kate Moss and Alexa Chung, is rumoured to be one of the featured artists on hand. She’s dropped quite a few hints about the collaboration on Twitter and often incorporates the interlocking Cs into her nail art designs, so we’re prone to believe that whatever she has in store for Chanel customers will be worth booking a ticket to London.

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Fashion news: Generra’s Pina Ferlisi to McQ, Tilda Swinton’s “dog paw” scent and see Madonna’s new clothing line | Hollywood yohana

 


Ferlisi, Toronto expat and former designer for Generra, is taking over design duties for the house’s licensed McQ line.  Read our interview with Ferlisi from our February 2008 issue.
Madonna and Lourdes’s juniors collection for Macy’s reminds us of that time we dressed up as the Material Girl for a skit in elementary school. [Racked]
Gawker‘s current…war? exposé? drama? with American Apparel continues. The website has apparently obtained a confidentiality agreement that states that employees who talk about their time at the retailer are responsible for US$1 million in “liquidated damages.”
“Yes, there’s dirt, vetiver, which is that greenhouse smell. There’s also bread, and at one point I remember asking, “Would it be possible to get a dog’s paw in there?” And so they did dogs’ paws,” says Tilda Swinton, talking about her new fragrance, Like This.
Tavi Gevinson will be guest blogging for Jezebel.
Care to see another of Tavi’s outfits from her Toronto jaunt? Check it out at the link. (Two words: Space shorts!)
Cleaning sponges are not fashionable enough, at least according to O-Cel-O, who has hired Project Runway winner Christian Siriano to give their sponges a makeover.


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Olympians descend upon Vancouver’s Omega boutique to celebrate the London Games while being ogled by mere mortals sipping champagne | Hollywood yohana




With the London 2012 Olympics kicking off this Friday, Omega (official timekeeper of the Games since 1932, FYI) warmed up for the big event by hosting a British shindig at its downtown Vancouver boutique. The English-inspired evening included faux—yet no less unflinching—Queen’s Guards posted at the entrance and better-than-mum-ever-made Yorkshire pudding appetizers whipped up by Hawksworth Restaurant.

Our slice of the Commonwealth was also well represented, with Canadian super athletes on hand. Local golden girl (golden as in Vancouver 2010 ski-cross gold medalist, and, well the hair too) Ashleigh McIvor brought her boyfriend Jay DeMerit, captain of the Vancouver Whitecaps soccer team. A 10.0 dive into the gene pool for those two. Other Olympians in attendance included five-time Olympian Charmaine Crooks, track and fielder Gary Reed and 2008 Beijing rowing gold medalist Jacob Wetzel, who brought his Olympic bling along with him.
The rest of us mere mortals threw back champagne, admired the new Seamaster 1948 Co-Axial London 2012 limited edition watch and mumbled under our breath about “working out more.”

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Nail Corner: A colourful-to-the-point-of-distraction stripe and zig-zag manicure | Hollywood yohana



 Created by arts organization No.9 and Toronto-based artists Jennifer Marman and Daniel Borins, Art Train Conductor No.9 is more than just a wrapped GO train—and it’s also the first time I’ve felt envious of commuters! (If you are a Toronto-area commuter, the train is currently running on the Lakeshore line, but is moving to Barrie as of July 31.) The whole design is beyond visually stunning: from blown-out multi-coloured pixels to bold zig-zags of black and white, there’s a lot going on. So when translating the train into nail art, the biggest obstacle was figuring out which elements to use and which to ignore. After drafting a few different ideas, I decided the best route was to focus on using similar colours and mimicking just a few repeating shapes. The result is a graphic set of striped nails that could serve as a great distraction during any commute home.

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Hedi Slimane’s new logo for Saint Laurent Paris is hated on Facebook but loved by Karl. What do you think? | Hollywood yohana




After the hate-athon that ensued after Yves Saint Laurent unveiled a photo of its revamped Saint Laurent Paris logo, two fashion heavy-hitters have come to the defense of creative director Hedi Slimane.
Both Karl Lagerfeld and Arizona Muse have given their stamp of approval to the new fuss-free, sans-serif logo, which was pictured atop two black boxes stacked on white marble on the brand’s Facebook page Monday. The logo, which is a nod to the brand’s Rive Gauche era back in the ‘60s, is the exact opposite of the swirly Yves Saint Laurent font that’s been a mainstay for the brand up until this point.

At the launch party of Lagerfeld’s new Olympics-themed collection at Selfridges, the ever-opinionated designer told British Elle that the new logo injected something fresh into the label.
“All of them, Dior and Hedi at Saint Laurent, are friends of mine, so I think it’s a very good thing,” Lagerfeld said. “Paris needs some new things, some stimulation . . . I love the idea. I think it’s interesting and it’s important. Something fresh was needed.”
Muse, who was the face of the label’s Spring 2011 campaign, agreed that it was a wise idea to change it.
“People who aren’t in the fashion world might not know that a new designer has joined the brand, so this is a clear way of signifying that there’s been a big change,” she told British Vogue. “It’s the sort of thing everyone will notice, not just fashion people.”
Their praise of the logo is definitely a different tune than the hostile comments many Facebook users were leaving below the logo image. Here are a few examples:
“Everybody with Microsoft Word could have “designed” that logo[.]”
“Guess you’ll just delete posts you don’t like, just like you did with Yves huh?!” (Aggressive.)
“This is so boring and genuinely disappointing. You have one of the most beautifully designed logos and now your [sic] settling for what almost looks like a cheap stamp. This is a classic mistake of re-branding gone wrong and I think everyone can agree, a bad move.”
Though the public might not love it, the support Slimane’s new direction has received from a number of fashion industry insiders seems to indicate that he’s doing something right. We’re waiting to judge until this fall, when his first collections for the legendary French fashion house will be unveiled.

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Karl’s latest and greatest comments on Kate (divine silhouette), Posh (unpretentious) and Choupette (hates anything attached to her body) | Hollywood yohana




Karl Lagerfeld descended upon London for the launch of his Olympics-inspired collection (as well as a men’s and women’s collection) at Selfridges yesterday, showing up a fashionable two hours late to a fête in his honour. However, as is often the case with Lagerfeld, it was well worth the wait, given that the always-quotable designer soon started spouting off about everything from his Olympics-themed collection (it’s “opportunistic”) to the royals (Kate Middleton’s figure is “divine”). And, of course, no conversation with Kaiser Karl would be complete without mention of the “great beauty” Choupette, who we happened to have the great pleasure of speaking with earlier this month (not face-to-face in case you were wondering—she sent us her answers via her ever-present iPad).

He admitted to Grazia that Choupette’s skyrocket rise to fame might one day leave even his own popularity in the dust.
“She’s like a huge powderpuff with blue eyes. People are stunned by her! I’ve done stories about her with Harper’s Bazaar, V Magazine with Laetitia Casta and for W Magazine. I think it’s fun. Soon people will talk more about Choupette than about me!”
When asked if he’d ever design for the kitten (whose eyes purportedly inspired his spring 2012 couture collection), he adamantly turned down the prospect.
“She hates anything attached to her body, not even her neck. Nothing! No, No. Her fur is so beautiful.”
As for Victoria Beckham, who recently tweeted images of herself in Coco Chanel’s apartment for a Lagerfeld-lensed shoot, the Chanel designer only had good things to say about her and her son Romeo, who came with her to the shoot.
“I’m a great admirer of hers. She’s a great example to tonnes of women; to have her four children, an incredible look and she’s clever. I know her from her days as a Spice Girl. Her designs are not bad at all, they’re good. She’s totally unpretentious. She brought one of her sons with her [on the shoot] and he was the sweetest boy, because often children of celebrities aren’t pleasant. This boy was perfection.”
He also had high praise for the royal set, saying the always-lovely Kate Middleton has yet to make a sartorial misstep.
“She knows pretty well what to wear and what to do. She has a divine silhouette so she can wear anything. She has a sense of what’s right for the moment because you can not dress like a mad woman in those situations.”
Another day, another set of memorable Karlisms.

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ant a Beyoncé-approved manicure? Check out Lisa Logan’s new Minx nail decal collection! | Hollywood yohana




With a client list that includes Beyoncé, Katy Perry and Madonna, it’s safe to say that Lisa Logan is a bona fide expert when it comes to the art of nail design. (Need more proof? She was the nail genius behind this Vogue Italia shoot.) Her latest partnership with Minx, the nail decals seen on fashion runways and stars like Rihanna alike, is yet another example of her always colourful and eclectic design aesthetic. The vibrant set of eight designs ranges from ‘90s-esque neon tribal print to a heart pattern initially designed for Suri Cruise. Most salons that carry Minx will have the set, but if you’re in New York you can get them done by Logan herself, at her soon-to-open salon. Oh, you bet our fingers are already crossed that you’ll get an appointment at the same time as Beyoncé.

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Beauty Fix: Lash-enhancing serums, the best eyeshadows for green eyes and how to master the art of contouring without looking like a Kardashian | Hollywood yohana




Are eyebrow-lengthening serums safe to use? Curious about mastering the art of contouring without looking like a Kardashian? Can the same tricks that keep your face looking young also help your hands? From grooming to makeup, there’s an endless amount of questions that can arise when considering how you take care of you face. But don’t fret—Beauty Fix is here to help! This week we’re taking on these questions and more to keep you looking your best all summer long.

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Thompson Toronto teams up with Greta Constantine to create a sexy new Lobby Bar uniform for its staff | Hollywood yohana




Toronto’s Thompson Hotel shares our love for all things Greta Constantine. The super sleek hotel chain is making sure their staff is up to snuff by teaming up with the label’s designers, Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong, to create a new chic staff uniform. Check out the sketch for the design above, and read up on the collab on torontolife.

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Crystal Renn outposes in V, McQueen shoes are even scary for models, a B.O. fragrance and more | Hollywood yohana

Photo by Terry Richardson for V. Via Models.com


Shots from V‘s upcoming and already over-hyped “plus-size issue” are out. Terry Richardson’s “One Size Fits All” features side-by-side shots of Jacquelyn Jablonski and a not-really-plus-sized Crystal Renn in the same pose in the same outfit. It’s worth noting that Renn out-vogues Jablonski at every turn. [Models., via Fashionista]
Fashion stylist is apparently the when-I-grow-up job of the aughts. Except for celebrity stylist, which according to 10 editor Sophia Neophitou is “something you just don’t want to become.” Take that, Zoe-ophytes.
Abbey Lee Kershaw and Natasha Poly reportedly took one look at the anteater shoes they would have to wear for Alexander McQueen’s Spring 2010 show, turned tail and ran. [Frockwriter, via The Cut]
Kate Moss‘ daughter, Lila Grace, takes after mummy in the fashion department. Says Moss: “Lila’s already got a great handbag collection! She’s got a mirrored Fendi bag and she’ll say things like, ‘I’m not going to wear that anymore.’” She’s seven. [Fashionista]
Diddy provided Madame Tussaud’s with a bottle of his I Am King fragrance in order to douse his newly-unveiled wax figure. That’s how people will know it’s fake, because we all know that Diddy’s “secret”: “I put on Unforgivable first, then I top it with I am King.” Details, Tussaud. Details. [Spoiled Pretty, via Jezebel]

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Behold: Coco Rocha’s wedding dress | Hollywood yohana





Now, two months after Coco Rocha married James Conran, she’s finally, FINALLY tweeted a full-length photo of the wedding dress. We knew it was Zac Posen, and we knew what the top half looked like, but behold the mermaid skirt in all its glory. Thank you Coco, for putting us out of our misery.


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They said/We said: The beginning of the end for Vena Cava? | Hollywood yohana




In news that is not totally surprising but sad nonetheless, Vena Cava is reported to be in extreme financial trouble, and on the brink of collapse. After the design duo of Sophie Buhai and Lisa Mayock didn’t show in Spring 2012 fashion week, except to a small gathering of friends and family, rumours swirled of financial difficulties and the effect of the ambiguous and negative reviews by the likes of the New York Times that their past collection received.
Reports are saying that negotiations with a major investor broke down earlier this month, leaving their financial state “drastic” and in need of saving. At this point, the company needs an angel investor (who would need a halo, for sure) or partner to bail them out.
So far, everyone is staying as positive as they can. “We love what we built with Vena Cava and are dedicated to seeing it thrive and grow. We have had some very positive talks from potential partners and feel confident about moving forward,” Mayock stated, and the company still has a deal with T.J. Maxx in the works. Fashionologie, though, is reporting that, “According to a source close to the situation, the label moved out of their Soho headquarters this week and laid off a lot of staff.” Hopefully they’re just getting rid of some overhead, and will pull through these tough times.
THEY SAID…
The Cut: “The Barneys website currently offers only one item by the label — a black dress marked down by over 50 percent. … Hopefully holiday sales will prove strong and a new investor will help the company sort things out.”
Racked: “Well, we have no problem doing our part to help, which includes buying this, this, and definitely this.”
WE SAID…

Randi Bergman, online editor: “While this might have been brewing for a while now, I can’t help but be shocked by the duo’s so-called demise. It was only a few years ago that Mayock and Buhai were the bright young things on the scene, and I really find it hard to believe that all that positive energy and attention is just going to wash down the drain given how wearable and seriously It girl their clothes are.”

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Style Snaps Trend: 25 shots of polka dots on ladies and kiddies on the Toronto streets | Hollywood yohana




Just like last week’s style snaps stripes post, polka dots are a standout graphic element that have become as neutral as a simple white tee. Need proof? Just take a look at these 25 awesome shots of men, women and even the kiddies donning dots and specks on the Toronto streets.


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Nudity in the cemetery? This image must be from Carine Roitfeld’s new magazine… | Hollywood yohana



Condé Nast blockade or not, the hype surrounding Carine Roitfeld’s forthcoming publication CR Fashion Book is showing no signs of flagging, especially after the big unveil today of the glossy’s first full image.
The much-anticipated image went live on the magazine’s home site this morning and shows Dutch model Juliet Ingleby striding through a cemetery in a billowing lavender veil, sparingly accessorized with red stilettos and a purse. A trio of black-clad attendants morosely brings up the rear, walking behind their colourful leader in Roitfeld-esque leather boots. Like all the other sneak peeks from CR Fashion Book so far, the shoot was styled by none other than Roitfeld herself, and shot by photographer Sebastian Faena.
If you can’t wait until the mag hits shelves on September 13, you can pre-order the print edition for $15 or the digital edition for $5 on the magazine’s site. In even more exciting CR-related news, WWD has also confirmed that the former Paris Vogue editor-in-chief will be hosting a launch party during New York Fashion Week; if Roitfeld’s past fêtes are anything to go off, the event won’t disappoint.

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It’s official! Fashion’s Night Out is coming to Toronto and we’ve got the scoop | Hollywood yohana




After months of speculation, its finally official: Fashion’s Night Out is coming to Toronto! The New York-based fashion street fest launched in 2008 to help boost the US economy is heading north, with retailers across the city set to take part on the evening of September 6, 2012—the same night as New York City’s FNO and the first night of TIFF. The one-night-only citywide block party sure to be a glittering affair with several events already in the making around Queen Street West and King Street West, and the stylish gals over at Rac Boutique and Peacock Parade on board to help with the night’s planning. We’ll keep you abreast of the plans as we hear!


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Style Panel: 7 unique ways to make summer’s bright lip pop, no matter your style | Hollywood yohana




Bright lips are another one of those things that was once seen as statement, but has now made it mainstream. Despite its popularity from the runway to the red carpet, though, some still find the colour pop hard to do. To help, we asked the ladies of Style Panel for their unique tips on how to dress for their favourite shades. New this week, we’ll be hearing from beautiful Montreal-based blogger and vintage maven Élodie Parthenay, the latest addition to the panel.

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Alexander McQueen and Kenzo duke it out in the battle of who’s video will get you high first | Hollywood yohana

Apparently both Alexander McQueen’s and Kenzo’s creative teams have blowing our minds on their agendas today. In their latest videos, McQueen’s for fall and Kenzo’s for pre-fall, the brands’ latest collections are presented in equally frenetic videos.
McQueen’s, directed by David Sims, stars Suvi Koponen (who is also the print campaign’s star) as some sort of intergalactic being traveling through the net/space/a video game/your solarized subconscious as she takes her visor sunglasses on and off.

On the flip side, Kenzo’s vid, directed by Quentin Jones, slices and dices its model into puzzle pieces that dance around the locker room and hop to and fro with a hula hoop. It kind of reminds us of what Winona Ryder‘s videos were turned into by Ben Stiller’s television dweebs in Reality Bites, but without the insult.

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They said/We said: Katie Holmes’ fashion line sales have increased since her public split from Tom Cruise | Hollywood yohana





When Katie Holmes first announced her divorce, we were all shocked by the move: up until a month ago, she seemed every part the dutiful wife, playing a supporting role to Tom Cruise’s megawatt presence. What we didn’t realize at the time was just how much Holmes would shatter that old image in the weeks to come.
Since that announcement, Elle’s oddly prophetic and impossibly well-timed feature on Holmes went viral across the web, Holmes’ legal team managed to pull off what must be one of the fastest settlements in celebrity divorce history (two weeks…two weeks!), Holmes snagged sole custody of Suri, taped an appearance on Project Runway and managed to make a series of almost daily public appearances around her home in New York City, looking impeccably put-together and serene each time (in other words, not acting or looking like someone who was going through a painful divorce).
What’s particularly admirable about these appearances though is the discrete marketing tactic implicit in them: with hoards of paparazzo clamoring for a picture outside her door every day post-scandal, Holmes very wisely chose to almost exclusively don none other than Holmes & Yang, her own line with former Cruise stylist Jeanna Yang, for her jaunts about town. As the New York Times puts it, the paparazzo shots have become “a stealth ad campaign,” one that’s been put into motion right before the brand’s first-ever showing at New York Fashion Week come September.
“The way she’s getting photographed today, she’s in a position to get more exposure than ever before,” Robert Burke, a former Bergdorf Goodman executive and fashion consultant, told the New York Times. “She’s not waiting for fashion editors and stylists to come and pull her clothes.”
Whether it’s a strategy or not, it’s worked: Holmes & Yang sales have skyrocketed at retailers like Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys. Whatever your feelings about the former Mrs. Cruise are now, you have to give it to her: she’s not the brainwashed sidekick we once thought she was.

THEY SAID…
Jacob Bernstein: “It all seemed a bit too calculated . . . did Ms. Holmes really need to run out for milk on a recent day when dozens of paparazzi were outside her door?”
Benjamin Wallace: “Holmes, unable to get the kinds of roles she wanted, realized she could cast herself in the part of a lifetime. […] She knew a good third-act twist when she saw one.”
WE SAID…
Bernadette Morra, editor-in-chief: “Katie’s positive publicity bonanza will likely be studied by public relations students for years to come. This appears to be a masterfully executed plan leaving nothing to chance—even her daily “walkabouts” for the cameras. Whether the plan was hers or not might never be known. But even if it wasn’t, she is clearly smart enough to have heeded expert advice. Without question, the Holmes & Yang show will be the hottest ticket of NYFW.”

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FASHION designer giveaway: Enter to win this dress by Paul Hardy | Hollywood yohana

FASHION designer giveaway: Enter to win this dress by Paul Hardy


2012 marks FASHION Magazine’s 35th Anniversary! To celebrate, each issue, we’re pairing up with a different Canadian who is also celebrating a milestone. We invite our readers to enter for their chance to WIN the designers’ featured show pieces. Good luck!


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ELIE SAAB Multi Strap High Heel Sandal

ELIE SAAB Multi Strap High Heel Sandal100% Leather upper, inner and sole high heel sandals. Upper has cross-over suede straps and wrap ankle strap, secured with adjustbale buckle. Hell is stacked and platform has stacked and suede covered detail. Availavle in Nude.
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Brian Atwood Yvesse Patent Leather Peep-Toes

Brian Atwood Yvesse Patent Leather Peep-ToesNeon yellow patent leather peep-toes. Overlasted platform. Almond toe. Covered flared heel. Leather insole and natural sueded leather sole. Upper: Calf leather. You walk on 110mm-4.25" 140mm-5.5" heel. 30mm-1.25" platform. Designer color name: Yellow.
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Peter Jensen Simple White Heeled Sandals

Peter Jensen Simple White Heeled SandalsPlatform sandals by Peter Jensen . Featuring a leather t-bar design with cut-out detailing to the sides, peep toe styling, an adjustable ankle strap with a rose gold-tone pin buckle fastening, a padded platform design with a leather sole and a chunky high heel. ABOUT PETER JENSEN Renowned for his offbeat cool, Danish designer Peter Jensen celebrates individuality with his vibrant designs. With his signature use of eccentric detailing and vibrant colors, Peter Jensen injects a sense of humor into his collections. Expect an eclectic aesthetic that sees bold use of color-blocking, ruffle embellishments and energetic prints across a range of knitwear, shift dresses and footwear, including two exclusive colourways for the heart color-block ballet pump. ABOUT ME Upper: 100% Leather Sole: 100% Leather Heel Height: 10cm/4"
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Dune Anise Sweetheart Platform Court Shoes

Dune Anise Sweetheart Platform Court ShoesCourt shoes by Dune . Featuring a shaped low cut vamp, suede uppers, a chunky platform sole and a high, stiletto heel. ABOUT DUNE Following fashion with an individual edge, Dune offers luxury across their collection of glamorous shoes. Defining their customer through attitude rather than age, Dune’s in house design team look to fashion capitals for originality and detail. Luxe finishes meet sculptural shapes across a range of heeled shoes, embellished ballet pumps and jewel hued wedges. ABOUT ME Upper: 100% Leather Sole: 100% Plastic Heel Height: 12cm/5"
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Dune Blightly Lace Platform Shoes

Dune Blightly Lace Platform ShoesPlatform court shoes by Dune . Crafted in lace with a contrast nude underlay. Featuring tiny studded jewel embellishments, an almond-shaped toe, a thick platform sole and a slim high heel. ABOUT DUNE Following fashion with an individual edge, Dune offers luxury across their collection of glamorous shoes. Defining their customer through attitude rather than age, Dune’s in house design team look to fashion capitals for originality and detail. Luxe finishes meet sculptural shapes across a range of heeled shoes, embellished ballet pumps and jewel hued wedges. ABOUT ME Upper: 100% Textile Sole: 100% Plastic Heel: 13.5 cm/5.5 inches
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Vancouver’s red carpet | Hollywood yohana

 
 
 
“In a notoriously laid-back city, it’s nice to see a bit of red carpet glamour,” said Maggie Langrick, the new arts editor at the Vancouver Sun and my co-judge for this year’s Best Dressed on the Red Carpet at the Leo Awards. We were being asked what was the best part of being asked to present this award, and her words were spot on.

The red carpet event took place at the Westin Bayshore on Saturday, May 24, and not surprisingly, some of Vancouver’s best and most established designers dressed some of the lovely nominees. Vicky Mackie, the Leo Awards publicist, looked stunning in a Chloe Angus (chloeangus.) two-piece silver and blue number with a dazzling belt, while Jo Bates, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actress by a Female in a Feature Length Drama, wore a floor-length turquoise and brown silk burnout dress by the same designer. Corner Gas actress Gabrielle Miller wore a knockout silver-sequined mini by Jason Matlo (jasonmatlo.), an outfit that garnered her the Best Dressed on the Red Carpet honour.
As for me and my co-presenters, who also included Citytv’s Dawn Chubai, we wore outfits provided by Teenflo, which just opened its first retail location outside Quebec on the upper level of the Pacific Centre. Since our goal was to judge the stars, not upstage them, Dawn chose a black, yellow and white skirt—a signature look from Teenflo’s spring collection, Maggie went with a classy white pantsuit, and I picked a magenta sheath dress and paired it with a statement necklace from the new H&M flagship.


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Montreal shop notes: 5 minutes with Renata Morales | Hollywood yohana

Renata Morales


The unique style of designer Renata Morales has earned her props from art-loving fashion circles, including Grammy-winning Canadian band Arcade Fire. Here, she shares her favourite shops and the story behind Denis Gagnon’s infamous eyewear.
You’ve moved from prêt-à-porter to designing exclusively for private clients?
“That’s what I enjoy doing. It’s more elaborate stuff, where all the work is really ornate. I’ve also done costumes for [Oscar-nominated film director] Denis Villeneuve’s short, Next Floor.”
How cool is it working with Arcade Fire?
“I work with them because we’re friends. It’s not costume-oriented, except those Tron suits they wore on SNL.”

How has your style evolved over the years?
“One main evolution for me is lightness. As decorative as my clothes may be, I like clothes that are so light you forget about them.”
What’s coming for fall?
“I’m working on a contrast between moss and metal—metal that looks light.”
Where do you shop?
“I’m very excited about Denis Gagnon’s new boutique in Old Montreal. We’ll be neighbours again.”
He told me his signature frames came from you.
“They used to be mine. He kept saying to me, ‘Those glasses look horrible on you.’ Finally, I called him up and said, ‘ok, Denis, you can have the glasses.’”


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Excessorize Me | Hollywood yohana

 
 
 
Mark Twain may have said that “clothes make the man,” but any clever kitten knows that accessories make the woman.  After all, judging from the parade of exotic plumes and precious sparklers spotted at fashionable fetes across the city, ’tis the season to sparkle and shine.

Ah December! That delicious time of year when excess is not only expected but also accessible to the masses–the sultry, smoky eye palettes, the high-watt window displays and the tantalizing treats piped to sweet perfection. It is certainly a maximalist’s dream come true–a dream that includes both sugar plum fairies dancing in one’s head and rock candy rings dancing on one’s hand.
With all of the festive frivolity kicking into haute gear, now is the time to strike that over-the-top balance of lavish loot – whether it be bags, beads or bows.  Lovelies take note: when it comes to accessorizing, the key word is excess.  Draw your style inspiration from film stars and First Ladies who wowed with their enviable mix of beauty and bijoux: Jackie O’s enamel Jean Schlumberger bangles, Liz Taylor’s statement necklaces and cuffs in Cleopatra, and Audrey Hepburn’s twinkling tiara in Breakfast at Tiffanys. Just remember, my darlings, the bon mots of Christian Dior: “It’s not money that makes you well-dressed, it’s understanding.”
What does excessorizing mean to you?
Chunky strands of costume jewelry layered around your neck?
A gob-stopper sized rhinestone ring passed down from your grandmother?
Stacks of exotic gold bangles collected from your travels?
A sexy panther hanging from a long, gold chain?
A pink feathered evening bag with an elegant bejeweled clasp?
Happy holidays to stylish snow angels everywhere!
Wishing you and yours a very FASHIONable new year.
Shown: Le Chateau dress, $90. 


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Let the games begin! Get into the competitive spirit with 18 amazing Olympics-inspired collections | Hollywood yohana




We’ve officially reached the one-week countdown to the London Olympics, which can only mean one thing: the Olympics have hit their peak, leaving no one (not even the fashion industry) untouched in their wake. From the Canadiana-themed the Bay collection to one of Opening Ceremony’s covetable collaborations at its temporary pop-up OC London store, there is so much amazing Olympic-themed fashion at our fingertips that even the least athletic of us can confidently get their sportif chic on. We’ve got a lineup of the most stylish Olympic-inspired collections for your viewing pleasure, as well as a few staple sportswear pieces should you be inspired to get a sweat going yourself!

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One fine photo: Photographed by Chris Nicholls for FASHION’s February 1989 issue | Hollywood yohana

One fine photo: Photographed by Chris Nicholls for FASHION’s February 1989 issue



“Many of the interesting shapes featured in this photograph are duplicated,” says FASHION’s current art director, Maarten Sluyter. “The model’s hair mimics the volume of her skirt, and the V shapes are repeated. There’s a lot of contrast in this image—it’s stark white and jet black with very little grey. It makes me think of classic Man Ray or Herb Ritts photography. The model’s pose has a timeless, sculptural quality—it’s graceful, almost ballerina-like. Here, form takes the spotlight.”

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Traveling beauty: The world’s best hotel amenities are worth slipping into your bag upon checkout | Hollywood yohana

Beauty travel



One of the best perks of checking into a hotel is rushing to the bathroom to see what kind of products await. Some offer perennial favourites like Kiehl’s or cool niche brands such as Malin + Goetz, but others commission beauty brands to create exclusive items, making them that much more likely to disappear upon checkout. Herewith, our picks for hotels that provide the squeal factor when it comes to travel-size toiletries. 

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Saskatoon It girl: Jacqueline Conway | Hollywood yohana

Saskatoon It girl: Jacqueline Conway


 Prairie belle Jacqueline Conway is the owner of Trend Blazer Marketing and a jazz, tap and lyrical dance teacher. But that’s not all this 27-year-old mover and shaker choreographs; she’s also the brains behind the Saskatoon Fashion and Design Festival (she’s the executive director) and Mix & Match Marketplace, a designer trade show for Regina and Saskatoon artists that targets the province’s nouveau fashion crowd. Conway relies on labels like Club Monaco and Rachel Roy for classic everyday staples and Zac Posen and BCBG Max Azria when she’s looking to create a little after-hours sizzle. Local labels Rebecca King and Laurie Brown—among those Conway has selected for pop-up shops and fashion shows—have found their way into her closet amongst her Joe Fresh and H&M finds. “Retail therapy is the best solution to a stressful workweek,” she says.
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First look: Jason Wu ventures into contemporary fashion with his new line, Miss Wu | Hollywood yohana





Next January, Jason Wu will add his name to the long list of designers that have forayed into contemporary fashion when he unveils his diffusion line, Miss Wu. The collection, which Wu describes as “slightly more downtown, and with a more relaxed attitude” than his signature line, is sure to garner a loyal following amongst trend-savvy women who like their fashion feminine and classic. Timeless ‘60s beauties—think Marianne Faithfull and Jane Birkin—served as inspiration for the Miss Wu’s 40-piece Spring 2013 line-up, which features mod silhouettes, groovy graphic prints and covet-worthy floppy hats. Wu, who gained experience designing affordable fashion with his Target capsule collection, told WWD that Miss Wu isn’t just about doing ‘Jason Wu-for-less.’ “I always see Jason Wu [the collection] as my aesthetic, my design sensibility,” the designer said. “Miss Wu is my personality.”

Miss Wu will be available exclusively at Nordstrom’s until January 2014, at which point Wu plans on globally expanding the line. Fingers crossed for a couple of Canadian locations!

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Q&A with Dan Levy and Jessi Cruickshank | Hollywood yohana

 
 
 
Just days before the highly anticipated premiere of part two of season three of The Hills, FASHION sat down with The Hills Aftershow hosts Dan Levy and Jessi Cruickshank to discuss the upcoming episodes, their fashionable lives and what they’re wearing this spring.
Are you two as excited for the new eps as we are?

Jessi: Yeah! Dan: There’s not much that we know, though. Usually we’ve seen a couple of episodes and know what’s going on, but they’re really not giving us anything. Jessi: We’re going in starting from scratch like everybody else, which is really exciting.
What are you most interested in seeing, from what we know from the trailer?
Dan: Well, Lauren and Whitney go to Paris to work with the Crilleon Debutante Ball, which should be, I’m hoping, a funny situation. I think there may be a problem with them not being famous over there. I don’t think [Parisians] really care. I think it might be the first situation that Lauren’s been in outside of the States where no one thinks she’s a big deal. Just seeing how that plays out…I think a lot of the show at this point is based on the fact that she’s now a celebrity. Jessi: Then there’s the Brody Jenner twist. I think it will become more clear what they were before, because they were never together, they were just friends, but they were making out. I think Lauren’s reaction to Brody having a girlfriend will be very telling.
Lauren’s new roommate, Lo, recently said that Lauren should be dating former Laguna Beacher Stephen Colletti. Thoughts?
Dan: I think Lauren should find someone outside of The Hills and Laguna Beach. Jessi: I think if she were to stay in that realm, Stephen would be the best for her, but I agree, she needs someone new.
Enough about The Hills – let’s talk about you two! How has your style changed since becoming successful television hosts?
Dan: I always liked to dress up. I respect the fashion world. Jessi: You know, you’re on TV and you can do some weird things with clothes. They won’t necessarily look good, but I’m willing to take that risk and learn from it.
What are your favourite shopping destinations?
Jessi: We have an amazing seamstress here, so I now have the luxury of going to Kensington Market or 69 Vintage and finding something and having her tailor it. Dan: Marc by Marc Jacobs is the one place that I know, if I go, I will always find something. Might not be able to afford it, but I’ll be able to find something and like it. New York and London, I visit all the time and I think in terms of fashion, particularly men’s fashion, they are up there. I cannot be more vocal about the state of men’s fashion in Canada. Shawn Hewson and Ruth Promislow from Bustle, and Philip Sparks are both doing a great job at making Canadian men’s fashion a little more progressive and European.
What are you dying to pull out of the closet once spring finally gets here?
Jessi: Footwear. I don’t even have socks – I have six pairs of socks and I don’t want to buy more ’cause I think the snow is going to melt. I can’t wait to show my little feet, ’cause I have cute feet. I’m looking forward to gladiator sandals. I’ll definitely buy a couple of pairs of those. Dan: I’m really into a cropped pant for summertime. I’m not really into shorts, because I’ve always had the weird view that my legs are too hairy. Maybe you can judge? What do you think?
We think you’re OK. They’re manly!
Dan: ’Cause I think they can get really offensive. So, cropped or cuffed pants without socks, with really great low-top suede loafers.
OK, maybe one more Hills-related question! What are your opinions on the Spencer-directed Heidi Montag video?
Jessi: I think it was the least sexy thing I’ve ever seen in my life. I felt a lot of secondary embarrassment watching it. I don’t think I ever actually saw the entire thing. Dan: I’ve been thinking of a polite way to handle the situation. It’s just…If that’s what you’re going to release, then why release anything? “I’m just trying to make it” is what Heidi said. But that’s not the way to launch a career. It almost looks like the beginning of a sex tape.



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The Stay: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver | Hollywood yohana




The Olympics may be over, but the feverish rash of hotels and restaurants are here to stay in the city that was once all mountains and granola, but is now more known for its vibrant foodie scene and growing list of luxe accommodations. The latest five-star to enter the posh pillow list is the Fairmont Pacific Rim (fairmont.com/pacificrim) where I got to escape to for a night during a recent sojourn on the West Coast. Now, I’m not much of a nature girl, but the first thing that strikes even the most hard-hearted of urbanites is the stunning unobstructed views of the North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park and Coal Harbour.
The Pacific Rim’s schtick (there are 3 other Fairmont properties already in the city) is a West-coast-meets-Asia vibe in honour of B.C.’s spot on, well, the Pacific Rim—get it?!—and they manage to pull it off with nary a cheesy tea light in sight. Everything from the décor—lots of wood, stone and airy spaces, complete with not-hitting-you-over-the head images of B.C. throughout—to the menu—marquee restaurant Oru features a smorgasbord of pan-Asian dishes, and there is a raw bar in the lobby—is a thoughtful blend of Canadiana and Asian chic. The 15,000 square foot Willow Stream spa, with cozy blankets and a stone fireplace feels like your rich friend’s cottage, and the treatments—like the oh-so-Canadian Great Canadian Facial or the Maple Sweet Body Treat include access to a private 2,500 square foot outdoor deck with meditation pods, cabanas, and Jacuzzis. (Well, actually, the outdoor deck wasn’t built yet when I was there but I could see the construction workers and they were working really, really hard!). Insider tip? Book a room on one of the Fairmont Gold floors. With a price difference of as little as $100 a night, Fairmont Gold offers a private check-in, an exclusive lounge with free newspapers, magazines and internet access, concierge and butler services, an everything-you-could-wish-for breakfast buffet, canapés over cocktail hour and free transportation in the downtown core.

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Kate Middleton looks Olympic-ready in a blue Stella McCartney shift dress | Hollywood yohana



Our favourite royal was out and about this morning, visiting the National Portrait Gallery for the opening of an Olympic-themed photography exhibit. (A perfect event, considering that Kate’s both a patron of the gallery and an Olympic ambassador.) The pieces included commissioned photographs of Britain’s athletes getting ready for this summer’s games, a picture of Kate herself with the GB field hockey team and perhaps best of all, a photo of David Beckham sleeping topless. Proving that she does indeed let the occasion at hand determine her style, Kate was wearing a shift dress by Stella McCartney in a shade of blue that looks like it was plucked right off McCartney’s Team GB uniforms. But that wasn’t her only Olympic nod: Kate’s statement necklace—a Cartier Trinity necklace from her own wardrobe—was apparently worn thanks to its similarity with the Olympic rings. Oh, what other sartorial goodies will Kate bring out while attending the games in the coming weeks? We’ll keep you posted.

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Twihards join Degrassi kids, Fefe Dobson and Bella’s dad at the New Moon premiere | Hollywood yohana

nov09newmoon8_lg


Team Edward and Team Jacob came out for premiere of The Twilight Saga: New Moon at Toronto’s Winter Garden Theatre last night. The crowd ranged from tweens in kitten heels and crinolines (Suri Cruise in five years) to TwiMoms in satin and sequins. The accessory of the evening wasn’t sparkly jewels reminiscent of Edward’s sun-touched skin, but feathered headpieces that were more posh than goth. But back to the boys!
See photos from the New Moon premiere after the jump.

Sasha Valsamis, a fan who’s read the books a few times, said emphatically, “Team Edward all the way, because he’s really hot.” While she admitted to being into Harry Potter than Twilight, Degrassi: The Next Generation’s Charlotte Arnold was firmly on Team Jacob: “I like vampires, but I’ve had my fill of Robert Pattinson, he’s everywhere, and werewolves are cool.”
Adding further star power to the premiere were Billy Burke (Charlie Swan, Bella’s dad) and Justin Chon (Bella’s friend Eric), who spoke to the audience about their experiences working on the Twilight series. Burke let everyone in on the joke that resulted in the mustache he sports in the films, and showed little fear of fan backlash when he noted that he still hasn’t read the Stephenie Meyer bestsellers. The stylish Chon, who spends his time off-set at his two shoe stores, joked that in the third film we can look forward to more of his cafeteria scenes.
No stranger to premieres, Canadian actress Natalie Brown, whose first viewing of Twilight was just last week, was excited to see how the film would “shape up” prompting much tittering about Taylor Lautner’s abs. And yes, when they made their first appearance the crowd did cheer, though the camera’s first slow motion pan of Edward got considerable more noise, answering which team comprised a majority of the audience.
The fun of the film over, guests mingled over cocktails and snacks, while playing armchair critic. The evening ended with Band of Skulls playing their track from the New Moon soundtrack–just the kind of music a moody Bella would love.


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Inside Saturday night’s PARKSHOW: Calgary’s hottest up-and-coming designers step it up on the well-dressed runway | Hollywood yohana




After months of buzz and a few blizzards, Calgary’s top fashion and arts non-profit organization, PARK (Promoting Artists, Redefining Kulture), threw its fourth annual PARKSHOW event to a sold-out crowd of over 350 people at the contemporary Palliser South Tower on Saturday night.
With a mentality to match the Mercedes-Benz Start Up program (plug alert: we’re scouting in Edmonton this year), PARK routinely pulls in a substantial fashion-savvy audience (this time, the demand for tickets was so high it warranted a second night’s showcase) and offers emerging designers a well-dressed runway to showcase their designs at no cost.
“As an emerging designer, one of the biggest challenges is to get the best possible exposure while working with a very limited budget,” says Aleem Arif of Bano eeMee, whose Gucci-inspired jackets had us drooling. “For me personally, PARKSHOW has provided an opportunity to network and connect with other amazing people who really care about what I do.” A few more stand-outs from an altogether inspiring and upscale two-part show was Saskatchewan-native, and now Calgary-based designer Rebecca King, as well as bags and scarves from Hoakon + Helga and asymmetrical designs from KARA by PARK’s own president and our March issue It girl, Kara Chomistek.
Hanging artwork from 16 local artists pieced together this year’s event theme of “Fragmented Geometry.” Next to PARK’s characteristically cool brigade of stylish and ladylike organizers, Calgary sure does look like one pretty young thing.

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Inside Fashion’s Night Out’s pre-party in Vancouver: Jason Matlo’s stellar fall showcase, stylish partygoers and more! | Hollywood yohana





Vancouver announced it’s coming out of the closet and into the streets and stores to throw its own official Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) on September 6 of this year. The invite for the launch-come-fashion show decreed “afternoon elegance” as the dress code to suit the Shangri-La Hotel location, and most attendees obliged.
At the press conference, details of the event were announced by Vancouver Fashion Showcase, the licensed local organizer of the global initiative instigated in 2009 by Anna Wintour, and advisory team Alexandra Suhner Isenberg of Searching for Style and designer Jason Matlo. The September event is expected to include the participation of 90-some fashion and beauty retailers, as well as restaurants.

Since press conferences aren’t exactly titillating, there were pre-cocktails and an après fashion show for Matlo’s Fall 2012 collection (he’ll show his Spring 2013 collection on the evening of FNO). Guests that heel-shuffled from lobby to front row of the outdoor runway included actress Carly Pope, stylist Leila Bani, and FASHION Style Panel contributors Alicia Quan of Alicia Fashionista and Niki Blasina of A Haute Mess. Fittingly, some of Matlo’s black over white lace overlays seemed to create a cityscape outline. Perhaps that’s what we’ll wear to shop till we drop come September.

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Get ready to squeal: We’re obsessed with the sartorial style of Logan, a toy-poodle gentlepup | Hollywood yohana




Local gentlepup Logan is a toy-poodle with some extreme sartorial savvy, showcased on his lifestyle and fashion blog, Logan’s Look. Take this post with a grain of salt or, heck, an entire saltshaker, but his blog is genius. Wearing a mix of children’s clothing and doggywear, Logan (with the help of owner Julianna Le) puts together some super stylish outfits that would look just as good on any two-legged companion.
He also has a penchant for Canadiana, often posing in Hudson’s Bay Company signature stripes as well as wearing a denim-on-denim Canadian tuxedo. The best part, though, is that this puppy offers clever, informed fashion advice that all men (dog or human) should follow.

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Love, Loss and What I wore | Hollywood yohana



I confess that when I first got the invite to the Toronto premiere of Love, Loss and What I Wore (Panasonic Theatre, 651 Yonge St., lovelossonstage.ca), I was scared. Awash in bad Vagina Monologues flashbacks (I’m sorry. Hi. That play sucked) and memories of my years as an ever-empowered 1990s feminist undergrad, I was worried that I was in for a long night of cloying female bonding and treacle-y ra ra lady feel-good times. I was very pleasantly  surprised. The fact that Nora Ephron and her sister Delia are the writers behind this alternately funny and touching show (based on a book by Ilene Beckerman) about women’s life stories—all built around scrapbook tales of pieces of clothing, the bra, the prom dress, the Kelly bag—should have been my first clue that the right note was going to be struck.  Performed by five actresses who all sit on the stage consulting scripts as needed, the show’s current Toronto cast includes a perky Paula Brancati (Degrassi, Being Erica), Sharron Matthews, Mary Walsh–yes, that Mary Walsh—and the always-classy Louise Pitre, who all turned in solid performances. But my favourite was funny girl Andrea Martin, who could make even the most basic of lines giggle-worthy. The current cast will perform until August 7. The new cast, which includes Cynthia Dale, Wendy Crewson and Degrassi‘s Lauren Collins, performs from August 10 to September 4.

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The culture club: Top 6 things to do on a lazy Sunday afternoon | Hollywood yohana




The work week is over, weekend chores are done, and if you’re one to engage in festive merrymaking on Saturday evenings, Sunday afternoons are usually reserved for repose. However, with the promise of summer sunshine peaking out from just around the bend, Fellow Culturite and intern at The Society Global, Nicole Schaeffer, has recommended her leisurely activities to get you off the couch and out of the house!
An occasional serving of even the trashiest, most self-indulgent, excessive of tabloids can be a healthy break from navigating through office memos and monstrous reply-all threads. Spending an afternoon cloistered in a book shop is a fine way to spend a rainy Sunday. Honestly, is there anything better than cracking the spine of an unopened book? If you’re looking for something meatier than US Weekly, Culturites are currently reading Vicky Ward’s chronicle of the end of Lehman Brothers, The Devil’s Casino.
One part childhood nostalgia mixed with one part sangria seems to equate to an afternoon of juvenile delights. Delving into some basement boxes should yield a variety of options to engage in a round of board games with buds. Remember Gumdrop Mountain from Candy Land? Or Miss Scarlett from Clue? In fact, we spent last Saturday night (and early Sunday morning) playing Trivial Pursuit at Julie’s Snack Bar (202 Dovercourt Rd., 416-532-7397, juliescuban.) over a feast of Cuban food and mojitos!
Two is the new four where wheels are concerned, and what could be more happy-go-lucky than a breezy spin through our urban playground? Picture it now: the wind in your hair, cute linen pedal pushers, and a jaunty smile on your face. So carefree and so laidback, you are perfectly insouciant and the envy of all those suckers getting around on foot. Check out the stylish Batavus bikes we covered last week.
With its vintage style electric sign and manually-updated marquee, an afternoon spent in the darkness of The Royal cinema (608 College St., 416-466-4400, theroyal.to) will transport you to a more classic era of refinement in film. The theatre showcases a variety of indie and art flicks that you aren’t likely to encounter anywhere else in the city. This weekend, check out the Ryerson University Film Festival (imagearts.ryerson.ca/ruff), which showcases the work of the school’s crop of graduating filmmakers.
What could be better than combining two things as wonderful as finger foods and the great outdoors? Leisurely snacking on a cozy blanket while gazing up at lush summertime foliage in Trinity Bellwoods or High Park is guaranteed to alleviate stress and induce dreamy contentment. Menu suggestions include crusty baguette, soft cheese, grapes, potato salad, sliced tomato with feta and basil, and a sparkling beverage of your choosing. We love to hit St. Lawrence market on a Saturday to stock up for the weekend on yummy tapas and family-style goodies!
With beach volleyball courts as far as the eye can see, sandy toes, a sunburned nose and the tune of the ice cream trucks wafting in the background, a day at The Beach is truly a little slice of heaven. Treat yourself to a languid stroll down the promenade and have a little frolic barefoot and fancy free while chasing some gulls across the shoreline. There’s also an abundance of public tennis courts should you want to showcase your athletic prowess. We recommend doing so in a white pleated mini with pink sweatbands so that even if your backhand isn’t up to snuff, you’ll at least be the most stylish player on the court.


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Gallery: Natalie Portman and Lisa Kudrow at Love and Other Impossible Pursuits | Hollywood yohana

FMtiff09love8


Natalie Portman (in bright pink Lanvin) and Lisa Kudrow were in Toronto yesterday for the world premiere of Love and Other Impossible Pursuits. Check out our red carpet pics after the jump.


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By now, stripes have become just about as neutral as a white T-shirt, with everyone embracing the once sailor-specific look into their everyday wardrobes. With such popularity, the Toronto summer streets were just ripe for the stripe pickin’. Check out 38 of our favourite takes.

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