be-spoken

Their Perfume, My Life

2011-03-30T16:26:00.001-07:00

Last week I stopped a woman at an event and asked her what perfume she was wearing. I tried guessing: “Eau Du Soir by Sisley,” I ventured. “No, Aromatics Elixer by Clinique," she replied. “Everyone asks me that when I wear it.” I don’t know this woman very well, but I will always remember her by that scent.

My earliest perfume-related memories are provided by my mom. Her dressing table was always filled with several exquisite glass bottles of iconic scents: Calvin Klein Obsession, Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds, Chanel No. 5, and Christian Dior Poison, but the scent she wore regularly, year after year, was Oscar de la Renta Oscar. I have a picture of her in my head: She’s picking me up from school wearing a fur coat in our larger-than-life Cadillac. I step into the car and it’s filled with that dewy, sweet concoction. I’m so proud to hitch a ride with my glamourous mom.

Going Gluten-Free

2011-03-23T17:37:00.001-07:00

I’ve been on the hunt for coconut flour ever since I found out there was such a thing as coconut flour — it’s quite hard to find, especially in small quantities. So you could imagine my joy when I discovered what is destined to become my go-to source for gluten-free baking essentials: Bulk Barn.

Guilty Pleasures

2011-03-16T08:51:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I make a discovery so epic it makes me giggle. So you’ll understand why my giggle turned into full-out laughter after I bit into my latest pastry obsession from Safeway.

It’s taken me a long time to organize my thoughts for this blog post because I want to get this description right. Imagine the lightest, flakiest croissant you’ve ever bitten into (well, maybe that’s a stretch — humour me) and the most unhealthy, sugary, glazed Krispy Kreme donut you’ve ever ingested. Now morph them into one delectable treat. Then drizzle it with chocolate. My heart races with anticipation as I write; or perhaps my arteries are clogging up. It’s exciting either way.

I’ve always believed in restraint when it comes to guilty pleasures, even though I’ve never practiced it. In fact, I relish in those simple, guilt-inducing foods, rituals and music I’ve indulged in ever since I was a kid. It’s funny, when you’re growing up in Saskatchewan, drinking instant coffee laced with Coffeemate with your grandma is a pleasure. Once you grow up and start to move in more sophisticated circles it gets demoted to a guilty pleasure. For the record, I still love instant coffee. My current fave is Nescafé 3 in 1 (which is available at my local Superstore).

Five Things I Can't Live Without Right Now

2011-03-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

I’m forever making up lists in my mind: top five spring fashion trends, top five hairsprays, top five moisturizers, top five fragrances... you name it, I’ve made a top five for it. So it seems perfectly natural for me to share five things I can’t live without, as of March, 2011.

My Nespresso Essenza

I love coffee. I’m proud to say it’s one of my vices. I recently told a friend that if I had $20 to my name I’d spend it on a one-week supply. At least I’d enjoy a daily moment of pleasure while I figure out how to make more money.

Admittedly, this machine is a little pricey, but it makes the most divine coffee. It’s easy to use, too. You just pop a specially designed pod (my favourite is Indriya) into the loader thingy, press a button and presto: a perfect shot of espresso topped with a rich layer of créma that will rival anything made in a fancy café. (Nothing against fancy cafés.)

Come to think of it, if I had $20 to my name I should consider selling my Nespresso machine. Never!

Dear Calgary Weather

2011-03-02T05:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Calgary Weather,

You’re slowly turning me into a raisin. I know it’s not your fault, per se; however, could you please back off the extremely cold temperatures? Could you also inject some moisture into the atmosphere while you’re at it? I’d be ever so grateful.

I know, I know, I was born and raised in Saskatchewan, so I should know how to deal with dry weather, but I guess my time spent out east in the sweltering humid summers (and bone-chilling damp winters) made me complacent. Remember that Vaseline Intensive Care commercial where the woman scratched the word ‘dry’ into her skin? This morning I scratched ‘help’ into mine.

A Place to Call My Own

2011-02-23T07:17:00.003-08:00

It’s official: I have a new apartment. After months of living with benevolent friends and family while I transitioned from Toronto to Calgary, I finally have a place to call my own — which brings along a wealth of challenges and new discoveries.

Let’s start off with the challenges: my apartment is virtually empty. Some people might look at my place and think: college student. I look at it and think: blank canvas. I can feel my decorating impulses start to kick into high gear. My Toronto apartment was a continual work in progress. It was about 100 years old, so I worked with the built-in charm to created a space that was comfy and elegant (in my opinion):

How I fight aging — and it's not all about the product

2011-01-26T08:15:00.000-08:00

I’m at that age when my birthday cake arrives with one candle on it as a sort of “you-know-what-we-mean” gesture. Hey, I’m always happy when cake is involved, but boy do birthdays lose their lustre past the age of 12.

To make matters even worse, I was born in January, painfully close to Christmas. Kids don’t see the common sense in combined Christmas/birthday presents.

I’m happy to say that I had a great birthday this year. The day started out wonderfully, in fact. My mom took me to Avenue Diner for an amazing lunch — what a great spot! Then later that day my friend Natalie and I went to loungeburger. After dinner we decided to go see Black Swan. I sat enthralled as I watched Natalie Portman twirl, leap and go crazy right before my very eyes. Psychosis aside, she looked great in her lightweight cotton dance gear and over-the-top Rodarte tutus. I noticed that there were lots of close-ups on her face — that woman has great skin. When I got home I inspected my own face for any new signs of aging.

Check out my first blog as City Editor at sweetspot.ca

2011-01-19T17:43:00.000-08:00

Hi there, I am so happy to announce that I'm the new Calgary Editor at www.sweetspot.ca. I absolutely love working for this amazing site and the amazing group of people that make it happen. Here is my first blog entry:

"Picture this: I’m driving south on Macleod Trail in my brother’s 1998 Grand Marquis to meet my friend Shauna at Canyon Meadows Cinemas. It’s dark and snowing lightly. (Please note that I’ve never been fully convinced my night vision is very good.) The low fuel light flashes on and I begin to weave my way into the right hand lane; however, the fast-moving bumper-to-bumper traffic makes this impossible and I decide to fill up after I pass Glenmore.

My eye starts to twitch and I instinctively rub it. This causes my contact lens to slide into that mysterious place it sometimes goes behind my eye socket. But it doesn’t come back! My depth perception fades and I start to white knuckle it as I roll my eyes upward, coaxing my contact lens to return to its rightful home on my cornea. I think to myself, “This would never happen in Toronto.”

Five beautiful gifts for your father—(not so) Rich Man’s Edition

2010-06-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

A beautiful watch—Timex SL Series Automatic

I don’t think you can get a nicer watch for $275—trust me, I have one!

www.timex.ca

Beautiful design: All ten Wallpaper City Guides for the iPhone

Think of how handy these apps will be for your world-traveling dad. New York, Milan, Berlin, Los Angeles, Paris, Barcelona, London, Amsterdam, Rome and Tokyo—$3.99 each!

www.phaidon.com/travel

A beautiful bike: Gary Fisher Simple City 8

This beautiful bike has all the charm of the Pashley Guv’nor for half the price. Bonus: it’s a Gary Fisher, so you know it’ll last a lifetime.

www.fisherbikes.com

A beautiful guitar: Yamaha F310

I think this is the #1 best-selling guitar of all time. That’s not surprising considering it sounds great and is priced at around $200.

www.yamaha.ca

Beautiful cuff links: Tiffany & Co. Barbell cuff links

These sterling silver beauties are minimal, elegant and $180 CDN.

www.tiffany.ca

Five beautiful gifts for your father—Rich Man’s Edition

2010-06-13T13:28:00.000-07:00

A beautiful watch: Baume & Mercier

Baume & Mercier Classima Executives Magnum XXL Chronograph (#8852). $4,590 CDN

Baume & Mercier Classima Executives Magnum XL Chronograph/Dual Time (#8851). $3,790 CDN

Giving a man a beautiful heirloom-quality watch is the equivalent of giving a woman diamonds. DIAMONDS!

May I suggest a Baume & Mercier watch for your father this year. This fine Swiss watchmaker dates back to 1830 and has been making some of the most exquisite timepieces ever since. In 1921 Baume &Mercier was awarded the prestigious poinçon de Genève (Geneva hallmark) by the Geneva Watchmaking Senior Committee.

Today the company is still turning out some of the most desirable timepieces in the world. And here is why I suggest this brand for your father: it’s not the obvious choice.

In this price range there are a few other options from different companies; however, when your dad’s jacket falls ever so slightly to reveal a Baume & Mercier watch, those who recognize top-notch quality will be impressed. And every time your dad checks the time, he’ll be impressed too. (And he’ll think of you.)

Note: be sure to engrave your gift with a meaningful message or simply your father’s initials.

www.baume-et-mercier.com

A beautiful guitar: Martin Signature Series D-28

Martin Signature Series D-28. From $3,000 USD

Chances are your dad either knows how to strum a few chords or appreciates those who can. In either scenario he’d appreciate owning a fine guitar.

I think the Martin D-28 would do quite nicely. Since its introduction in 1931, the D-28 is the standard to which all large-bodied steel-stringed guitars are based. Its large “Dreadnaught”-sized body is the most widely imitated guitar model in the world.

Family sing-alongs will never be the same!

www.martinguitar.com

Beautiful design: An iPad with Phaidon Design Classics Preinstalled

If your dad appreciates good design, chances are he wants an iPad. Sweeten the pot by installing Phaidon Design Classics on it so he has something cool to test out when he turns it on.

Actually, at $20 the app is quite the deal. The three-volume hard copy sells for almost $700, about the same price of the 16 GB 3G iPad model. Basically a 2 for 1 deal—get one for yourself, too!

www.phaidon.ca/phaidondesignclassics

Beautiful cuff links: Paloma’s Marrakesh cuff links

Paloma's Marrakesh cuff links, Tiffany & Co. $5,300 CDN

The mere fact that your dad needs cuff links—in this increasingly uncuffed age—qualifies him as being elegant enough to deserve these exquisite specimens. And let’s face it, men love getting something in a Tiffany box, too.

I recently found myself in one of those last-minute panics while dressing for a wedding. Everything was perfect: suit freshly dry cleaned and ready to go, perfectly tied tie, sparkling black patent shoes... Only one element was amiss. I forgot to pack my cuff links!

Gruesome images of me arriving with garbage bag twist ties holding my shirt together crept into my head. Luckily my host provided me with a beautiful pair of sterling silver Tiffany cuff links for the evening just seconds before I was conjuring a full-blown adult tantrum.

And then it struck me—every man needs to own a pair of Tiffany cuff links.

I love these ones because they’re exotic and will go with anything your dad could possibly pair them with. Made with 18K gold and black enamel, they are sophisticated enough to wear with a tuxedo, but quirky enough to pair with jeans and a blazer. Now that’s jewelry your dad can put to good use.

www.tiffany.ca

A beautiful bike: The Guv’nor by Pashley.

"A good day to ya!"

A few years ago I did a story about high-end bikes and I fell in love with the Guv’nor by Pashley. For obvious reasons! Everything about it screams “Guv’nor,” from its gold-piped black rims to its Brooks saddle seat to its handmade leather grips. This is a beautiful bike.

Based on the 30s-era Path Racer by Pashley, the Guv’nor is suitable for both city paths and cobblestone street. In either context onlookers are sure to tip their hats in approval.

www.pashley.co.uk

Colognes for Father's Day

2010-06-09T09:08:00.000-07:00

What type of Dad do you have?

I think shopping for Father’s Day can be one of the most challenging of tasks. The old standby is cologne, but do you know what your dad likes? Or, perhaps it’s time for an update. Here are a few of my suggestions:

Manly Dad

Polo by Ralph Lauren

If your dad drinks JD for breakfast and wrestles wolverines for fun he probably doesn’t wear cologne, but if he would rather don a plaid shirt than a suit chances are he’d like Polo. It’s a 80s classic that has—in my opinion—gotten a bad rap since its heyday. I really do need a bottle of this stuff! So does your dad. Notes: Pine, Basil, Geranium, Oakmoss and Leather.

www.polo.com

Refined Dad

Infusion d’Homme by Prada

A few days ago a very well-dressed, elegant man walked by me at Starbucks. And as we passed, a trail of Infusion d’Homme followed him. It was a great coincidence because I too was wearing that wonderful scent. It’s a light and somewhat powdery cologne that is perfect for summer days and nights. Your father will be oh so refined wearing it. Notes: Mandarin Orange, Neroli, Iris, Benzoin.

www.prada.com

Worldly Dad

Terre d’Hermès by Hermès

How many times will I blog about this cologne? I could write a book about how much I love it. Obviously I’m lumping myself into the worldly category here, but I do feel a sense of adventure when I spray it on. If your dad is equally comfortable in a boardroom as he is on a yacht, this fragrance is for him. The best part about Terre d’Hermès is that over time his suit jackets—or yachting-wear—will start to become infused with the scent. It lasts forever on fabric! Notes: Orange, pepper, cedar, vetiver, bay rose and benzoin.

www.hermes.com

Jazzy Dad

Havana Vanille by L’Artisan Parfumeur

Havana Vanille is my latest fragrance addiction and definitely my next purchase. If your dad sports a straw hat and smokes the occasional Romeo y Juileta while listening to Latin Jazz, this could very well be his next go-to cologne (made easier if you buy it for him, of course). The concept is brilliant: a masculine Vanilla scent that manages to be sweet without being gourmand. Notes: Mexican Vanilla, Clove, Narcissus, Rum and Leather.

www.lartisanparfumeur.com

Hip Dad

Commes de Garçons (self-titled)

To be honest, I don’t know too much about this cologne other than the fact that the art director at the magazine I used to work at wore it. I always thought it was a great fashion-forward, edgy scent. He always smelled masculine-yet-cool. If your dad hasn’t lost touch with his fashionable side or wears ironically studious-looking glasses (that are indeed ironic—you know the difference) then consider this scent for him. Notes: Labdanum, Cedarwood, Black Pepper, Honey, Rose, Incense, Sandalwood, Nutmeg.

Available in Toronto at Nomad.

www.nomadshop.net

Here are some other matches:

Hippy Dad: Muscs Kublaï Khän by Serge Lutens

A real musk for the man who is unafraid of his animalistic side. Notes: Musk, Vanilla

www.sergelutens.com

Old-School Dad: Colonia by Acqua di Parma

This scent is a true original. As crisp as a freshly pressed Italian linen suit. Notes: Citrus, Lavender, Rosemary, Vervain, Bulgarian Rose.

Available at Holt Renfrew.

www.holtrenfrew.com

Drugstore Dad: Old Spice

This is one of the “cheap” colognes that I’d gladly wear any day. Originally created in 1937, this old staple is really quite a nicely constructed scent. Plus the bottle is actually quite cool. Notes: Orange, Spices, Carnation, Jasmine, Vanilla, Musk.

www.oldspice.com

Barbershop Dad: Aveda Pure-Fume Tonic for Men

Spraying on this cologne is like spraying on that lingering scent you experience at an Aveda salon. I, for one, am a fan. And if your dad is a salon-loving kind of guy, he’ll be a fan too. Notes: Lavender, Citrus, Bergamot.

www.aveda.com

Are you getting your dad cologne for Father's Day? If so what kind.... Or, what kind of cologne does/or did your dad wear? I'd love to know!

La Mer and Oceana for World Oceans Day

2010-06-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to write to you about a special topic that is close to my heart. Today is World Oceans Day—a day for us to take stock of—celebrate and perhaps mourn—the state of our saltwater. Originally started in 1992, and officially declared by the United Nations in 2009, World Oceans Day seeks to bring attention to the sea’s vital ecosystem to help preserve its delicate habitats and wildlife.

To commemorate this day, my favorite skincare company, La Mer, has released a special limited-edition, 100mL World Oceans Day “blue” Crème de la Mer jar and will make a $200,000 donation to Oceana, one of the world’s leading ocean advocacy organizations. This is the first time the company's iconic jar has been altered since it was originally created by founder Dr. Max Huber!

La Mer’s reputation as one of the world’s finest skincare brands is built on its proprietary “miracle broth” formula, which is derived from a rare sea kelp harvested off the coast of California. Who better to align with Oceana to raise awareness and spread the message to their many, many customers.

And now, more than ever, the message needs to be spread.

It seems as if no matter what media outlet we turn to right now we are faced with disheartening images of contaminated ocean, oil-drenched birds and once pristine beaches covered in a slick, tarry coating. This is truly our wake up call to take action and help protect the world’s seas.

Yes, England is facing a one trillion-dollar debt, North America is only now showing signs of economic recovery, and even China is getting nervous about its economic outlook, but for obvious reasons the world’s spotlight has been thrust onto the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. When it really counts, we instinctively know that money woes dwarf in the shadow of an environmental disaster.

But there is still hope. Organizations like Oceana are dedicated to providing real, scientifically-based and measurable solutions, and their efforts are felt all around the world. In their five-year partnership with Oceana, La Mer has donated over $500,000 to the organization’s sea expeditions, studies and preservation efforts.

This year’s sizable donation will help support Oceana’s expansion into Belize. As Oceana CEO Andrew Sharpless explains, “Because Belize has the second largest Barrier Reef in the world and is one of the jewels of the sea, anybody who thinks about the world’s oceans from a global perspective thinks about Belize.”

La Mer is also sponsoring a deep sea dive with Oceana’s spokesperson, January Jones. Please watch the video below to see the astonishingly beautiful waters of Belize and to learn more about the work that is being done there:

I am a firm believer that cosmetics companies such as La Mer can make a real difference. Beauty is not merely the effects of a creme (however amazing they might be), it is also core values and ethical practises. This special blue bottle will be your daily reminder that your purchases can help support good causes. There is no need to abandon luxury, but there is a need to support luxury that gives back.

Available in Canada exclusively at Holt Renfrew.

www.theoceanproject.org

www.oceana.org

www.cremedelamer.com

www.holtrenfrew.com

Salade Niçoise

2010-06-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had the most glorious Salade Niçoise. It’s so amazing how simple and easy it is to eat elegant meals every night. I feel like I’m eating better than I ever have before, and I’m actually spending less doing it!

This salad is perfect because it brings together the best of the season while also providing lots of protein. I can’t wait until I can raid the farmers markets this summer to make it taste even better. Hint: Buy a bottle of Bonjour Brioche's salad dressing. It is AMAZING! (www.bonjourbrioche.com); however, if you want the best restaurant version, go to Patachou (1120 Yonge Street, Toronto, 416-927-1105).

I Want, I Need

2010-06-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

Paper-thin cotton cardigan

Harder to find than you might think. I want a cardigan that is light as a feather. Ironically the price tag rises the thinner you go. I love this cashmere (no it’s not cotton, I know) option at Ralph Lauren Black Label, a steal at $399 USD:

Cashmere cardigan by Ralph Lauren Black Label

This much less expensive option from American Apparel is great, too (is this company bankrupt?):

Unisex Tri-Blend Fine Rib Cardigan in Athletic Grey by American Apparel

Beat up camouflage cargo shorts

I love the idea of wearing a rugged pair of camouflaged cargo shorts with other more preppy items. I might have to pick up this pair from Old Navy ($20!):

Cargo shorts in camo by Old Navy

Geeky knapsack

How ridiculously amazing is this leather backpack from UK-based leather retailer Grafea? I absolutely love it—not only for its vintage good looks, but also for its obvious versatility. Backpack and briefcase AND messenger bag? I will own it:

Postwar backpack by Grafea

Birkenstocks

Flashback to good times. A must have!:

Arizona sandals by Birkenstock

Perfect white t-shirt

Obviously the trend these days is everyday items made luxurious. How about these two options:

Short Sleeve V-Neck by James Perse

Pima Cotton T-shirt by T by Alexander Wang

I Love Buffy Sainte-Marie

2010-06-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

I can think of no other artist whose music is so honest, raw and original. In my opinion, Buffy Sainte-Marie deserves icon status right up there with the grand dames of diva-dom.

When I was a teenager I listened to music as if I were an active participant in the creation of the sound. It meant so much to me—possibly because the experience was as much a self discovery–process as simply an aural one.

I don’t know when my undivided attention to music tuned out, even if there have been bright spots along the way (Robyn, Tori Amos, Regina Spektor, Feist, Carla Bruni—KATE BUSH); however, Buffy reinvigorated my sense of music and discovery. It’s been quite a challenge to round up her old recordings, but little by little I’m getting it done. Look at some of her stunning album art:

It is hard to describe Buffy Sainte-Marie’s style. At any rate, it’s progressive, odd, political and original. Born in Saskatchewan on the Piapot Reserve, she was raised by distant relatives in the US and gained prominence as a singer-songwriter during the folk movement of the ‘60s. Perhaps this is where my affinity for her music comes from: a genetic attachment to Saskatchewan.

I think I started to cry when I first heard her song “Qu’appelle Valley, Saskatchewan.” It’s as if the lyrics are my own. It makes me homesick. Here’s a challenge to my Saskatchewan-born readers, listen to this song and tell me if it doesn’t capture the feeling you get when you enter the valley:

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Sainte-Marie’s career is her ever-evolving style—she is able to transcend genres and be a pop star, folk-scene mover and shaker, educator, activist, American, Canadian, painter, singer/songwriter, and probably lots more. Her song “Universal Soldier” became an anti-war anthem of the ‘60s, yet her song “Till It’s Time For You To Go” —which was written in the same era— became a standard for Elvis Presley, Barbra Streisand and Cher. She took a 16-year hiatus from recording after her 1976 album Sweet America, however during that hiatus she won an Academy Award for writing “Up Where We Belong” for An Officer and a Gentleman.

Here’s my dream Buffy Sainte-Marie playlist (most songs are available on iTunes):

“Now That The Buffalo’s Gone,” It’s My Way (1964) This song packs so much information into just a few minutes. I challenge you to listen to it and not be outraged at the treatment of aboriginal people in North America.
“It’s My Way,” It’s My Way (1964)
“Until It’s Time for You To Go,” Many a Mile (1965)
“Little Wheel Spin and Spin,” Little Wheel Spin and Spin (1966)
“My Country ‘Tis of thy People You’re Dying,” Little Wheel Spin and Spin (1966)
“Summer Boy,” Fire & Fleet & Candlelight (1967)
“97 Men in This Here Town Would Give Half a Grand in Silver” Fire & Fleet & Candlelight (1967)
“Lyke Wake Dirge,” Fire & Fleet & Candlelight (1967) This arrangement just goes to prove that Buffy is a touch crazy. It’s wacky, and very trippy at the same time—hard to believe it was recorded in the mid-1960s.
“I’m Gonna Be a Country Girl Again,” I’m Gonna Be a Country Girl Again (1968) Perhaps one of the best country songs ever written. I can’t believe it hasn’t been covered!
“The Piney Wood Hills,” I’m Gonna Be a Country Girl Again (1968)
“God is Alive, Magic is Afoot,” Illuminations (1969) Apparently Buffy simply freestyled the guitar arrangement while singing the lyrics to this Leonard Cohen poem. It’s truly one-of-a-kind.
“Better To Find Out For Yourself,” Illuminations (1969)
“Adam,” Illuminations (1969)
“She Used To Wanna Be a Ballerina,” She Used To Wanna Be a Ballerina (1971)
“Song of the French Partisan,” She Used To Wanna Be a Ballerina (1971)
“Now You’ve Been Gone for a Long Time,” She Used To Wanna Be a Ballerina (1969) The emotion in her voice in this recording is astounding. In the last refrain she slows down her vibrato to sync with the rhythm of the song—unusual and effective.
“He’s an Indian Cowboy in the Rodeo,” Moonshot (1972)
“Moonshot,” Moonshot (1972) Perhaps the most beautiful strings arrangement ever recorded.
“Native North American Child,” Moonshot (1972)
“For Free,” Quiet Places (1973)
“Just That Kind of Man,” Quiet Places (1973) This song really captures that enraptured feeling you get when you’re in a very robust physical relationship.
“The Jewels of Hannalei,” Quiet Places (1973)
“Can’t Believe the Feeling When You’re Gone,” Buffy (1974)
“I’ve Really Fallen For You,” Buffy (1974)
“(Hong Kong) Star Boy,” Buffy (1974)
“Can’t You See The Way I Love You,” Changing Woman (1975) Listen to this song on headphones if possible; the vocal recording is amazing. And the lyrics: “Pheasant wings I sew to every memory; Every place you've touched me is embroidery." Wow!
“Mongrel Pup,” Changing Woman (1975)
“All Around The World,” Changing Woman (1975)
“Sweet America,” Sweet America (1976)
“Look At The Facts,” Sweet America (1976)
“Sweet January,” Sweet America (1976)
“Qu’appelle Valley, Saskatchewan,” Sweet America (1976) Perhaps the best song ever?
“I Been Down,” Sweet America (1975)
“Starwalker,” Coincidences and Likely Stories (1992) I like this version better than the one on Sweet America. So much energy!
“The Priests of the Golden Bull,” Coincidences and Likely Stories (1992)
“Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee,” Coincidences and Likely Stories (1992) I get a lump in my throat every time I listen to this song. I think it's one of her best.
“To the Ends of the World,” Running for the Drum (2009) I am planning on making a cover of this song. It's an instant classic, almost Morrissey-esque.
“Still This Love Goes On,” Running for the Drum (2009)

Buffy Sainte-Marie was honoured last week with a Governor General’s Award for the Arts. I can think of nobody more deserving of this honour. And at age 68, she looks better than ever! PLEASE MAKE SEVERAL MORE ALBUMS, BUFFY!

www.creative-native.com

Current Obsession: Panna Cotta in a Fancy Cup

2010-06-04T11:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my latest obsession: Panna cotta. I made this delectable dessert last night. For some reason I doubled the recipe and ran out of ramekins, so I reached for whatever other vessel I had available. Luckily my roommate J owns two almost Rococo tea cups. What a perfect combo—a rich dessert in a gilded cup.

For those of you who’ve never made panna cotta, it truly is the most elegant and easy-to-make dessert in the world. I served mine with basil puree and rhubarb sorbet, however it goes with just about anything (chocolate, any fruit, caramel, etc.) Here is the recipe I used:

3 cups heavy cream

1 package of gelatin

1 vanilla bean

In a medium sauce pan, sprinkle gelatin over one cup of the cream and let stand for five minutes. Turn the heat to low and stir the mixture until the gelatin completely dissolves (3-5 minutes). Add the rest of the cream and the vanilla bean (scraped out seeds plus the bean) and continue to stir over medium heat until steam begins to rise from the mixture. At this point, remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. (The top might set up a bit during this time, so give the mixture the occasional stir.) Transfer to ramekins and refridgerate until firm. And enjoy!

Summer of Salads, day 2

2010-06-01T22:46:00.000-07:00

On today’s menu:

Field greens+hearts of palm+Bonjour Brioche dressing+caramelized onion, herbes de provence and garlic roasted mushrooms, and brie de chèvre=divinity

Summer of Salads

2010-06-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

I am lucky enough to live in the same building as four of my closest friends. We have been known to indulge in the finer things in life (fondue, caramel corn, high-fat sushi); however, this summer we have made a pact to strive to maintain our gourmand integrity while celebrating the produce of the season. This is our summer of salads.

The idea came to me when one of my culinary idols, Mark Bitman, wrote this amazing story, entitled “101 Simple Salads for the Season”, in the New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/22/dining/22mlist.html

Who doesn’t want to eat like that? I do admit that in the past year I’ve redefined my diet—and as a result I have lost several pounds. And the key to my success is primarily salads for dinner. I make it count, which means no skimping, but when I’m done my salad—save a glass of wine or a coffee in the evening—I’m done eating for the night. If I go to be a little hungry, so be it.

So, the transition to exploring creative salad options for the summer is not far fetched. It just takes a little bit of planning. I recommend buying enough salad ingredients for a week’s worth of meals. Having to pick up missing ingredients is a motivation killer. I also recommend going all out. Eat lots. Lots of good stuff is simply lots of good stuff.

Last night we made a divine salad—it might not exactly qualify as diet food material, but it was delicious:

Spinach+poppy dressing+green apples+red onions+cranberries+toasted walnuts+brie de chèvre= amazingness

I’ll document our journey, and please share your own salad recipes with me, I’d love to try them out!

Current Obsession: Cole Haan

2010-05-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

This weekend I stepped into Cole Haan to take a quick gander at their summer offerings, and, to the surprise of both me and my very discerning fashion friend, I fell in love with the American-classic styles and very affordable price tags!

Take a look at these very tempting current offerings:

Air Grant. An amazing driving shoe, light as a feather and well priced at under $150.

Air Yacht Club Boat. I love this washed-out dove grey colour. Looks like you've had them for years.

Air Yacht Club Canoe. All-American classics call for all-American colours.

Air Colton Saddle. A classic saddle shoe with the added comfort of Nike Air soles—what more could you want?

High Hat. There is something very Rockefeller about these boots. Walking sticks and top hats extra.

Woven braces. I don't have a nice pair of braces. These would be a good start.

Portage Shaving Kit. I'm always on the lookout for a great toiletries bag—this is so chic!

And the pièce de résistance:

Canvas and Leather Tote. Perfection.

Side view. Slim enough to fall nicely on your side. Large enough to carry whatever it takes to get you through the day!

Dear Canvas and Leather Bag,

I will take you everywhere I go this summer. You’re the perfect bag because I can carry my gym clothes in you, or my laptop, or even groceries when I forget to take a reusable shopping bag.

I love your colour and the fact you have handles and a shoulder strap.

Yours truly,

Ricky from be-spoken

p.s. go on sale soon

Classy? The irony is killing me!

2010-05-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

You’d be hard-pressed to find a classier guy than Derek Blasberg. He’s smart, funny, handsome, a snappy dresser and a great host (if his mingling skills at the party recently thrown for him at The Bay’s luxury shopping mecca The Room are any indication). And with the recent release of his new book entitled—fittingly—Classy: Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady, he is the authority on good behaviour.

Buy it HERE

Enter Ricky, the authority on embarrassing behaviour: The day got off to a shaky start. At around noon I decided to smear a layer of self tanner onto my face, just like they to in Hollywood! It should be known that my bathroom is fully stocked with every kind of beauty product you could ever hope for: eye creams, hair tonics, bronzers, soaps, lotions. You name it, I’ve got it. Except recently purchased self tanner! Instead running to Shoppers Drug Mart to buy some L’Oreal Sublime Bronze (my go to) I rummaged through my stuff and found a tester of Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Golden Perfection Selt-Tanning Lotion for Face. This is actually one of the best self-tanning products on the market; however, when I squeezed it into my hands the consistency was runny and it smelled a little chemically. Did I turn back, wash my hands and forget about it? No. I continued to slather it on. And wait to see what happened.

Luckily, it turned out ok. I really should go buy some of that stuff. If it worked after sitting on my shelf for a year, imagine what a fresh bottle could do!

So, my face turned out relatively bronzed and ready to go. Then the big dilemma arose: What to wear (c'mon Torontonians hardly ever get a chance to dress up), ! I chose one of my favorite combos: bright shirt, bow tie, dark jeans and a blazer. Simple, classy and very much ME. As I tied my bow tie, I looked at myself in the mirror and thought, “Classy, very classy indeed.” My pride quickly faded, though, as I boarded a streetcar and chugged along to The Bay while warding off stares of dismay from my local Leslievillians. Apparently nobody around here has ever seen a man wear patent leather shoes.

Fast forward an hour or so to the actual party. For those of you who haven’t been to The Room at The Bay, you really are missing something spectacular. It’s truly one of the best shopping experiences in Toronto, if not Canada... if not THE WORLD. Nicholas Mellamphy, The Room’s artistic director, has created a little piece of fashion heaven. Naturally, the party was a success with all of Toronto’s fashion heavy hitters—including Stacey Kimmel and Suzanne Rogers (and me)—present swirling around in luxurious couture. My two friends, J and G looked amazing in their towering heels and perfect hair and makeup. We saw several people we knew and began to mingle.

But I hadn’t eaten all day. And several glasses of white wine mysteriously found their way into my hands.

One glass of wine—I start to unwind. Two glasses—I start to get socially lubricated. Three glasses—I start to think I’m hilARious. I’m pretty sure I was well into my third glass by the time I met Derek. Needless to say I attempted several jokes to varying degrees of success, all the while not trying to spill my wine onto Mr. Blasberg’s nice suit. I told him that I needed a cute name, even cuter than Ricky. He suggested substituting an “i” for the “y.”

My claws are grasping at this book like I'm scared it will be snatched away by the swag thief

After meeting the lovely Byrdie Bell and Lyle Maltz, my friends and I decided to go home. But before we did, we made sure we said goodbye to our host. “Derek, we’re leaving," I said, "but before we go, I want your final verdict. Classy or trashy?”

“Ricky,” he replied (remembering names at parties is essential to being classy). He pointed at J and G. “Classy.” Then he pointed at me.

I interjected, “Trashy, right?”

Derek nodded yes. I knew it! Thankfully I now have his perfect little robin’s egg blue manual to educate me on how to go from this:

To this:

Current Obsession: Fratelle Carli Saponetta

2010-05-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

It’s really important to love your soap. It’s one of those daily necessities that can turn a routine into a ritual. For this very reason, I have secured a few months supply of my favorite soap—Fratelle Carli Saponetta:

Now I buy it by the box!

I came across this wonderful lemon, herb and olive oil–scented soap quite by accident several years ago while rummaging through a sale area of a local Italian supermarket. I was instantly addicted to its amazing scent—which, incidentally, is how I think all men should smell after a shower—and used it up very quickly. Unfortunately, the supermarket I bought it from was out of business when I went back to stock up! So, like any obsessed consumer, I kept the wrapper in my dresser for years to help me remember the brand if I were to see it again.

Fast forward a few years: While browsing the amazing produce at Harvest Wagon in Rosedale and as if I was a bloodhound in search of the fallen rabbit, my nose lead me to my beloved Fratelle Carli Saponetta! It could have been the happiest day of my soap-loving life. Never again would I have to smell mass market.

I hope you have a soap that gives you this much pleasure on a daily basis. If you do, could you tell me what it is? I’d love to know.

www.harvestwagon.com

www.oliocarli.com

Five things I WISH I Couldn't Live Without

2010-05-21T06:07:00.000-07:00

Yoga. I WISH I liked yoga more than I do, because I have a vision of me decked out in Lulu Lemon drinking lemon water and talking about my core to a woman named Lemon. And in this vision I always have a great body. It’s not that I dislike yoga, I just get easily discouraged and intimidated by the scene—ironically, it’s the same scene that attracts me, too. I have been checking out unlimited monthly packages at various establishments (if I go for it, I’ll submerge myself immediately) and 889 Yonge in Rosedale looks amazing! www.889yonge.com

That should be me

Vitamins. I recently had the chance to learn about a great new brand of health products launched at Shoppers Drug Mart called Bodylogix. Their vitamin lines are gender specific and contain AM and PM formulas. How ingenious! And the list of ingredients is a who’s who of the nutrient world, with guest appearances by saw palmetto, pumkin seed and pygeum bark extracts, green food concentrates, enzymes and lots more. Unlike other vitamins that tend to make me feel nauseas, these ones go down nicely with hardly any after taste. So why don’t I take them? I always forget! Bonus: When you buy any Bodylogix product you receive a pin number that gives you access to their amazing website, where you can find customized workouts and diet menus—I have no excuse. www.bodylogix.com

Paper correspondence. I buy stationary all the time. And then I watch it disintegrate. I have every intention to be that person who sends letters, postcards and writes thank you notes. Unfortunately, to this point in my life, I’m not him.... yet. I think part of my problem is email: it’s just sooo easy to stay in touch digitally. Luckily I have found a wonderful website that incorporates the look of tradition stationary with the ease of email (they also sell the old-fashioned stuff, too... I can’t wait to order my customized letterhead asap): www.iomoi.com

Porter Cooper must be a classy man, but so am I! I need a calling card asap.

My own calling card design not yet in production

Last week my friend Amy sent me the most beautiful letter all the way from Australia. It was so nice to receive something other than a bill in the mail—I really love the retro envelop, too. I vow to write her back (and use up some of my stacks of beautiful paper).

Tea. I like tea, but I wish I LOVED tea. I love coffee and need it at regular intervals daily, but I really wish I loved tea just as much. And just like my stationary, for some reason I have a massive collection of beautiful teas on my shelf that I never use. One canister contains black tea spiked with lavender and rose petals! I even have the most gorgeous jasmine flower tea that unfurls from tiny balls into full blossoms. Do I drink them? NO. I didn’t even know a dedicated tea drinker until I moved to Toronto—where I come from it’s coffee, coffee, coffee. That being said, so far my favorite places in Toronto for a hot pot o’ tea are Moroco (if I can resist their sipping chocolate), Nadège (for their macaroons and Kusmi tea) and Red Rocket (for their Chantilly Grey by Tea in the Sahara).

A book a week. I used to read every day. I used to devour books. I now can’t even concentrate long enough to read a magazine article! I’ve gone down from a book a week to five books a year, if I’m lucky. This doesn’t stop me from browsing Chapters and buying the occasional novel, nope. So what’s the disconnect? I break it down to two factors: my favorite authors don’t put out too much material and I spend too much time on the computer. (Actually there is a third reason: I’m constantly looking for that “aha” moment in a book. I start so many that I never finish because I simply don’t feel like it’s going to move me in any way—damn you Book of Negroes for being so memorable, you make the other books quake in your presence.) I will solve this problem in a few way: first, take a book with me wherever I go and retrain myself to read in my downtime when I’m out and about; second, read before bed; third, try to get my book club going—I’m in the midst of organizing a good old-fashioned book club replete with fabulous members, amazing books, really tasty treats and good wine. Here are a few books I’m interested in reading this summer:

I've started this one before, but didn't finish. I love Roberston Davies, and LOVE a good trilogy!

What are some things you wish you couldn’t live without?

Ten things I can’t live without, as of May 13, 2010

2010-05-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

Coffee, more specifically the Nespresso system. I need a cup or two each morning, and since this stuff is expensive, fancy and tailor-made for single servings, I don’t over-caffeinate. Favorite varieties include Fortissimo Lungo and Indriya—both are bold, spicy and perfect for Americano-sized cups.

Mac. Let’s face it, I’m glued to my iPhone and MacBook, not to mention Pages, Logic Pro and iTunes. These guys do it right. Next purchase? The iPad. At first I wasn’t convinced, but the more I think about it, the more I truly believe this machine will revolutionize the way people get their information. It puts the glossy back into glossies.

Twitter. It took me a while to realize how useful Twitter really is. This is the best way to filter information and feel linked to sources you want to be close to... like Rachel Zoe. I’m more of a follower than a leader. That being said, I really should actually “tweet” more.

Fragrance. I need to smell like something other than me (not like I smell terrible or anything, though). Like slightly rotten oranges (Terre d’Hermès), or an aristocratic lady on a horse (Daim Blond by Serge Lutens), or a Cuban jazz singer (Havana Vanille by L’Artisan Parfumeur). Other favorites include Infusion d’Homme by Prada, Lime Basil & Mandarin by Jo Malone and Beach by Bobby Brown. (This category includes candles, because I need my home to smell great, too. I LOVE French Lilac by Pacifica, Fraser Fir by Thymes and anything by Jo Malone.)

Clinique Skin Supplies for Men Non-Streak Bronzer. I’ve often thought about what my desert island cosmetic essential would be, and I always considered this item... but then I realized that I’d probably develop a pretty good tan on a desert island, thereby rendering a gel bronzer quite obsolete. Oh, those scenarios are so complicated, and I take them so seriously! I do wish this product contained sunscreen, though.

Baléa 3 in 1 Cleansing Cloths. I recently came to terms with my lazy nature. Turns out I’m not as high maintenance as I once thought. The fact is I HATE washing my face at night! I know, seems terribly shameful for a beauty junkie, but it’s the truth. I keep a box of these amazing face wipes by my bed and “wash” my face with them as I lay in a semi-comatose state. They leave my skin clean and fresh, and they’re cheap!

Gillette Razors. The best a man can get, enough said. (I will be blogging a bit more about Gillette’s new Fusion ProGlide razor in a day or two—it’s really good!)

My Vespa and my bike. Seems as if I’m a two-wheel kind of guy. I’ve had my Vespa for a few years now and I absolutely love zipping around town in it. I truly think low emission scooters should slowly replace five seater cars holding one passenger. Just makes sense, right? Last year I bought a vintage Eaton’s Glider bike made by Raleigh and I LOVE it.

(note my glamorous lifestyle: bike indoors, garbage can, recycling with high-sugar cereal in it)

My apartment. I absolutely love my imperfect apartment. It’s old and somewhat dingy, but it’s also charming and the consummate city residence. For every bad feature (questionable plumbing, cheap tile in the kitchen, there’s a good feature (high ceilings, big windows, lots of room). There’s something about the energy in my apartment that makes people want to convene there. And that makes me very happy.

My niece Versailles and my nephew Jacob. These two kids bring endless amounts of joy to me and my family. They are a constant source of laughter, wit and love. Versailles is currently very much into American Girl dolls (and her Cabbage Patch Kid named Sadie) and Jacob is a budding comic artist. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for these two!

Runners up: Red wine, Club Monaco, bagged salads, olive oil, perfect omelets, macaroons

Flower Power

2010-05-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

I once said, “There’s nothing in the world I love more than fresh cut flowers.” Perhaps a bit of a hyperbole, but there’s a lot of truth in that statement.

Freshly cut flowers enliven any home. They are a true reflection of the season. Tulips, lilies, lilacs and peonies in spring, then lavender, freesia and sunflowers in summer.... the list goes on.

Sometimes I splurge on my flower purchase, but most of the time I buy a simple bouquet from my local florist, scrap the greenery and baby’s breath and create elegant little vignettes like these ones:

Here are some beautiful blushing pink hydrangeas I just had to have:

Of course, nothing compares to experiencing living flowers in nature, but then again, nothing compares to a wide array of cut flowers inside, too!

Vintage Style

2010-04-21T20:22:00.000-07:00

Find the fashion lover in this photo: An easy task, given that my wonderful grandma Angela Zayshley is front-and-centre sporting a black-and-white dress, flat shoes and her trademark bright red hair. She is standing next to my grandpa and my dad on his wedding day. You can see tell-tale signs that this picture was taken in a small Saskatchewan town, from the festively decorated car with a plastic swan on the roof, to the expansive sky, to the grain elevator looming in the background.

I guess you could say my grandmother—she refused to be called “baba,” the typical name for a Ukrainian matriarch—went against the grain. Her husband was a working man who preferred to live on his farm; my dad was a sort of Rockabilly guy replete with sideburns wearing a... what kind of collar is that? But my grandma was pure glamour. Even with a limited budget and not much access to great shopping, she turned out Fifth Avenue-worthy looks no matter what the occasion. Her sense of colour and adventure was truly original. It wasn’t odd to see her wearing hot pinks, glaring yellows and shimmering golds—maybe even in the same outfit. We’d often scratch our heads and wonder, “where did she buy that?”

I have always been enthralled with her love of fashion and she inspires me to dress well every day. Many other people found her form of self-expression irresistible, too; however, several of her fellow small-town residents didn’t understand it. She dressed elegantly to replicate on the outside her inner joy and love of life; I don’t think many people around her loved life as much as she did.

My Grandma Zayshley just turned 93 this year. She still has red hair, and she still lives alone, keeping herself busy by caring for her immense wardrobe. If I were to knock on her door right now she would most definitely be wearing an unexpectedly chic ensemble. I once asked her who inspires her to dress the way she does. Her reply? “Me.” A true original.

Here are some more of my favorite pictures of my grandma:

This is my grandma and me Christmas 2008

This is a painting I did of my grandma. She's a saint to me.

Thank you Moroccanoil Light Oil Treatment and Luminous Hairspray

2010-04-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

Moroccanoil Light Oil Treatment for Fine and Light-Colored Hair will make you wish you'd never set eyes on Alberto VO5 Hot Oil Treatment. Click here to find out more.

I just experienced a hair miracle of the highest order. I know I should downplay this since it’s Easter, and we all know that was a huge miracle, too. But I’ve pondered the mystery of Jesus for decades and I’ve only had good hair once. Here’s how it went down:

I am constantly on the look out for new hair products. Most styling aids simply don’t work for me. Like my mother, I have baby-fine hair—the bane of our existences. Here’s what I/we need in a hair product: it has to be volumizing, it must give me texture and definition, it has to impart a healthy shine, it must create a lived-in look on clean hair and it has to smell good.... and it has to hold my style all day.... and not flake between washes. Simple, right? I’m just a regular guy.

My friend G. was raving about Moraccanoil the last time I saw her, and I’ve been obsessed with trying it ever since. I am skeptical about putting oil in my hair, though; My hair and deep conditioning do not mix. (I once deep conditioned my hair with coconut oils then washed it with a coconut shampoo before I had to sing an aria at a friend's wedding. I looked like Squiggy from Laverne & Shirley.) But when I saw that Moroccanoil is now offering a hairspray and a light oil formula I decided to give them both a try.

Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Strong Flexible Hold is infused with argon oil and truly gives your hair weightless hold! Click here to learn more.

I dabbed a small amount of the Moroccanoil Light Hair Treatment into my hands and applied it to my washed and towel-dried hair. Nice smell. Not too greasy. So far, so good. I blow dried my hair the way I normally do. (This is when the miracle started to begin.) As I dried my hair, I noticed it taking on a heavenly sheen and other-worldly body. It was the best blow-drying experience of my life. Even better than the ones Sharon used to give me at Partner's in Yorkton. My style was truly enlightened. I looked like an 80s movie star—the look I am currently going for.

As I ran my fingers through my hair—perhaps a little too sensually—it fell into place exactly how I wanted it to. I nervously reached for the Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray and started spraying for my life. “So this is what a luxe hairspray is supposed to be like,” I thought to myself as a superfine-yet-powerful mist coated my locks. Now the true test began—how long will this all last. Some miracles are but an illusion.

I constantly checked in on my hair through the day. Ran my fingers through it. Gave myself flirty eyes. It held up. If anything it somehow improved! But here is when I knew I had a bonafide miracle on my head. The next morning I woke up, dragged myself to the bathroom and expecting to see my usual cross between Alfalfa and the guy from Flock of Seagulls:

Only to find I was still more like Ted McGinley.

Somehow my style held up through the night. That never happens to me when I have longer hair. Amazing!

So this is two miracles for me (I kept on waking up in third year university with stigmata). Now with this latest hair-related miracle I only have one more to go before I’m up for canonization and I’m really nervous about it. Talk about a big step in life. But, if anything, my newfound good hair might open up a host of miraculous activity in my life. And when Pope Benedict XVI kisses my head to congratulate me, he will bury his nose in my soft voluminous coif, breathe deeply and say, “do you use Moroccanoil by any chance?”

To find out more about Moroccanoil, or to find the nearest salon that carries it, visit www.moroccanoil.com

Did someone say cheesecake? Golden Girl Style

2010-03-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

This one’s for the girls. The Golden Girls, that is. I apologize for not writing too much about women’s fashion lately—I get so excited about menswear it sucks up all my time and energy. So to get back to my roots as a women’s fashion enthusiast and former Barbie and Cabbage Patch Kid stylist, I would like to impart a few of my thoughts about how I think women should be dressing right now. And those thoughts revolve around one main source of inspiration, The Golden Girls.

That’s right, Blanche, Dorothy, Rose and Sofia really knew what they were doing when it came to self-expression through fashion. Blanch the seductress, Dorothy the intellect, Rose the romantic and Sofia... Well I’m not sure if this post will reflect Sofia’s personal style choices; however, I think everyone should own at least one rattan handbag. And while I’m be honest here, I’ll admit that this post will not reflect Rose’s style, either. We all know that Dorothy and Blanche were the fashion icons in that house. But what would they be without the other two? Like, what would Carrie have been without Miranda?

Blanche Deveraux

Blanche knows sexy. If you could see yourself lounging on a lanai wearing the piece in question, then BUY IT. This means watercolour prints, caftans, silks, luxurious cuts, flowing robes and over-all prettiness. Chanel, Erdem, Miu Miu and Ralph Lauren are all over this. Even consumer-level retailers like Club Monaco and Zara are picking up on the trend. Just remember to wear these items on the correct occasions. If Blanche was going sailing she wore a sailing outfit, if she was going out dancing she wore a dancing outfit, if she was sipping iced tea on the lanai she wore a sipping-iced-tea-on-the-lanai outfit. Simple! Nothing annoys me more than to see people wear loungewear out at night just because it’s in style; Same goes for evening pieces during the day.

Chanel Spring 2010 RTW

Erdem Spring 2010 RTW

Miu Miu Spring 2010 RTW

Ralph Lauren Spring 2010 RTW

Etro Paisley-print silk-chiffon kaftan

Dilemma: Big Daddy just called. He's in Miami and will be coming over in five minutes. What do you wear to look more sweet as cherry pie? Easy, slip on this Chloé linen and cotton maxi dress.

Club Monaco Spring 2010

Zara Spring 2010

Club Monaco Spring 2010

Show some cleavage—especially if you have perky breasts like Blanche. Donna Karan lamé cross-front top

Just add wicker. Marc Jacobs Printed crepe silk shorts

Wolford Chiffon-tie 66 denier leggings

An icon. Chanel Classic Flap Bag

Blanche's little black book probably looked more like this. Erdem notebook for Smythson

Classic nude pumps go with everything. Buy them now. Christian Louboutin Simple 70 leather pumps

And a pair in black. Christian Louboutin Simple 70 leather pumps

Dorothy Zbornak

Dorothy knows sophistication. If there is one thing an over-achieving substitute teacher should master, it’s the art of layering. Layers are good. Even if you shouldn’t faithfully recreate and wear one of her outfits piece-by-piece, Dorothy has the right idea. The trick is to play with proportion and colour. Where Dorothy might be billowy from head-to-toe, you shouldn’t be. Try to pair a slouchy t-shirt and cardigan or cape with leggings and flats. She also pulls off the androgynous look very well, too. Can’t you see yourself in a tailored blazer, boyfriend jeans and booties? Chloé, Stella McCartney, Donna Karan, Alexander Wang and Celine (Phoebe Philo!!!!!) do this very well. So does Club Monaco, so there’s no excuse pocketbook-wise. Side note, for now and always, buy yourself an iconic Hobo bag. Spend the money, get the look. Wear it forever. Be Dorothy Zbornak.

Phoebe Philo is a genius. Celine Spring 2010 RTW

Celine Spring 2010 RTW

Hello class, my name is Dorothy. I'll be your substitute teacher today. Chloé Spring 2010 RTW

Club Monaco Spring 2010

Zara Spring 2010

Diane Von Furstenburg Short Didi sequined jacket

See by Chloé Crepe boyfriend-fit blazer

Stella McCartney Studded cotton sweater dress

T by Alexander Wang Classic jersey tank

Alexandar Wang Zip-front stretch leggings

Stella McCartney Tapered linen-blend pants

Levi's 501 boyfriend jean

Virginia Johnson beetle-print merino wool scarf

The natural, budget-friendly choice for a substitute teacher. Bottega Veneta Intrecciato leather shoulder bag

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hillier hobo bag

Delightfully elfin. Somewhat Ballet Russes. All Dorothy. Newbark Love lamé leather shoes

Slouchy and sexy. Brian Atwood Studded Ankle Boots

Rule of thumb: Blanche is more spring/summer and Dorothy is more fall/winter. That doesn’t mean you can’t layer it up for summer, you just have to choose the appropriate fabrics. Same goes for florals and watercolours in the winter—nothing is more welcome than a pop of colour on a drab November day. So have fun, watch some old episodes of The Golden Girls and start channeling your inner senior. You’ll be surprised at how modern you’ll look.

Smell Amazing! Jo Malone Vitamin E Body Balm

2010-03-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

I just had the most delightful experience, and I owe it all to Jo Malone. Have you ever put on a new fragrance or fragranced product, forget you’re wearing it, and then look around to find the person who smells so good? That just happened to me.

As most of you should already know, I’m a huge fan of Jo Malone’s amazing line of fragrances and candles—I wear Lime Basil & Mandarin every time I need a pick-me-up. So when I quite literally got my hands on their new Vitamin E Body Balm I figuratively jumped at the chance to test it out. (I might have literally jumped at the chance; I’m easily excited when it comes to new products.)

The first thing I noticed about the balm was its very silky texture. It feels like it’s lighter-than-air. And, as all high-end products should be, a little goes a long way. The second thing was its divine scent. Im not sure what exact notes are in the Vitamin E Body Balm, but to me it’s a mixture of chocolate and clover honey. Unexpectedly intoxicating. (And it can be worn underneath any fragrance in the Jo Malone line, which is a bonus.)

There is something special about using a well-formulated, luxury body cream. It really does feel different from the everyday lotions I usually slop on. My hands felt instantly transformed into the soft hands of an aristocrat. My roommate J and I have had long, unnecessarily articulated conversations about how amazing it is. Ok, I usually initiate and lead the conversation while J stares at me and nods.

To anyone who likes to smell good—and especially anyone who lives in dry-air climates like Calgary—do yourself a favor and pick up a bottle of Jo Malone Vitamin E Body Balm. And while you’re at it, check out the rest of their iconic Vitamin E skincare line—it’s really amazing stuff! Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and the addition of shea butter, cocoa butter and wheat protein help form a protective layer to help lock moisture in the skin.

Some people might gripe at the $90-a-bottle price tag, but here’s my justification. This is a product that will bring you a little joy every day. And a little joy every day adds up to lots of joy over the lifetime of one jar of body balm. Besides, having supple skin and being the best smelling person in the room is priceless.

Available in Canada at Holt Renfrew.
www.holtrenfrew.com
www.jomalone.com

Spring is Busting OUT All Over!!!

2010-03-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Perhaps it’s the recent spike in temperature that makes me want to plan my spring wardrobe, or maybe it’s my insatiable need to shop. Whatever the reason, I can’t stop thinking about what I will be wearing (or coveting) in the months to come. Here are a few of my top picks!

Suits

I am going to throw out a few names: Brooks Brothers Black Fleece, Thom Browne, Etro, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Tom Ford, Paul Smith.

Brooks Brothers Black Fleece Seersucker Classic Jacket

Etro stretch cotton suit

Paul Smith wool-cashmere blazer

Tom Ford Spring/Summer 2010

Now I will go shopping at: Club Monaco, H&M, The Bay and try to recreate, to the best of my ability, these looks for less. Rest assured, now is a good time to be in the market for an entry level suit. Men are now very well educated when it comes to style, and those boxy, unflattering fits of yesteryear just don’t cut it anymore.

Club Monaco recently hired Timothy Farah as their head menswear designer. Before heading to CM, Farah worked on Brooks Brothers’ Black Fleece line alongside Thom Browne. He has brought that same modern sensibility to Club Monaco’s latest offering of suits. They are reminiscent of classic 1960s tailoring, but add a perfect dose of fashion forwardness. For example, you could hem the pant length to the ankle and get away with it.

Club Monaco Spring 2010. Not a suiting, I know, but doesn't this look modern? I wonder how tall this model is

Club Monaco Spring 2010. Again, this looks very current. Worn with confidence, it could compete with the big boys. I love the monochromatic feel

I’d love to own tasteful seersucker and canvas suits this summer. Nothing too light in colour, though; I’m scared I’ll look like I should be carrying a tray of ice cream cones to Big Daddy’s birthday party. Instead, I’ll look for a navy pinstriped seersucker and medium beige canvas.

J.Crew Italian chino Ludlow suiting. Like Club Monaco, J.Crew is giving the American classic brands a run for their money with nice tailoring like this. This suit can easily be worn together or as separates

Outerwear

Light grey hoodie

A classic BUNNYHUG from University of Saskatchewan. I love it!

I don’t think there is a more versatile piece of clothing in a man’s outerwear repertoire than a light grey hoodie. It looks equally as good over a shirt and tie as it does with jeans and a t-shirt, and it is easily layered under a jean jacket, puffy vest or trench coat. On a side note, I would love to go for a jog wearing a pair of matching sweat pants on a crisp spring day (like Oprah when she means business). If I exercised.

I’ll check out Ralph Lauren, American Apparel or UofT (even though I went to Ryerson); however, I’m not opposed to Old Navy, the Gap or H&M—as long as it looks right, right?

Gap t-shirt hoodie. This piece looks like it could be the perfect summer hoodie. I have yet to see it in person, but the lightweight look could give it a very high-end feel

Jean jacket

Levi's Trucker jean jacket. Note: I tried this on yesterday, and while the jacket is nearly perfection, I seem to be in between sizes. I don't know if I could buy it snug or a little roomy. Suggestions?

I’ve been thinking of getting a jean jacket for a few years now, and I think this just might be the year to make it happen. I’ve flip flopped about what brand to get and it’s held me back a bit. The decision is easy, though. You can’t go wrong with a classic Trucker Jean Jacket by Levi. The original. Now I can’t decide what colour to get.

Classic trench coat by Burberry

Burberry Cropped Trench Coat

I have several great trench coats—I like to think I’m known for them (even though I know I’m not), but I’ve never owned this iconic Burberry plaid-lined classic. Of course, I would belt it to give me a shapely figure and wear it with the collar turned up. I will also wear it to spy on people sitting in the park while pretending to read a newspaper.

Shirts and such

Chambray shirt

Club Monaco chambray shirt

I am in love with chambray (don’t say chambray too many times or else it starts to lose all meaning). Since it is very trendy right now, every major retailer is doing a version. I quite like what Club Monaco has in store, and their price is right, but I’d like to stick to American classic brands like Brooks Brothers or Ralph Lauren when investing in an American classic look. I could see myself wearing a nice chambray shirt tucked into white denim accented with chocolate brown leather accessories. Top all that off with a pair of Club Master Ray-Bans and I’ve got myself a look that I probably wouldn’t look good in. But I can hope it pans out.

Brooks Brothers Black Fleece button-down oxford shirt. I know it's not chambray

Crisp white shirts like Colin Firth wears in A Single Man

Brooks Brothers Black Fleece spread collar shirt

I can’t begin to express how much A Single Man changed my way of looking at fashion. I now want to solely exist in 1962 so I can dress like Tom Ford’s slightly skewed vision of men in the 60s. Let’s face it, there is no way someone could be as perversely perfect as Colin Firth’s character; however, I can sure try. And when I say try, I mean likely fail miserably... but in Toronto failing miserably at a lofty look often puts you head and shoulders above everyone else. So I’m not really worried.

Jon Kortajarena and Corlin Firth in A Single Man. Sigh

I loved the crisp white shirts worn in A Single Man. I loved how carefully they were treated—they were almost another whole character in the movie. Tom Ford was robbed at the Oscar’s. Why wasn’t this movie nominated for Best Costumes?

Note: An Education also made me weak in the knees for 60s-inspired fashion.

The cast of An Education

Navy blue cardigan

Polo by Ralph Lauren cashmere v-neck cardigan

I really miss my perfect navy blue cardigan. It went with everything and I fully intend on replacing it this spring. H&M has a nice cotton-linen blend version for $24.95 that I think I’ll snap up. For one, I love cotton and linen blends—perfect for summer— and I also love the price. I hope it fits well. (My main gripe with H&M.)

Pants and such

White jeans

Levi's 501 jeans in Gesso

I have no idea what brand or cut of white jeans I will buy, but I’ve been flirting with the idea of white pants of some sort for quite some time now. I will have to bring an honest friend along when shopping for this item because I have to find the perfect pair, or else it just won’t work. Maybe 501s? I don’t know.

All I do know is that white jeans will play perfectly into most of the schemes I have concocted for this spring and summer. Chambray shirt and white jeans. Check. Cable knit sweater and white jeans. Check. Navy blazer, colorful shirt and white jeans. Check. Endless options.

Red chinos

Polo by Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Eaton Wash Jean

Look at this picture. Don’t you want to be THAT PERSON? I know I do. I remember when red jeans were all the rage in 1990 or so. I didn’t follow the trend then (I did have a pair of forrest green Girbaud jeans, though), but I’m ready for it now... I think. There is something so bold and brash about brightly coloured pants. I think the key—as always—is to find the perfect fit. I am on the hunt!

Tastefully distressed light denim

Levi's 1947 501 Exile jeans

Investing in the perfect pair of tastefully distressed light denim jeans will make my pants trifecta complete. Like the white denim and the red chinos, these jeans will go with every outfit I could see myself wearing this summer. They will look especially good as I ride my cruiser bike up and down the street. I usually stick to rigid dark denim, but I’m ready to shake things up. The problem is, it’s HARD to find the perfect wash. I think these Levi’s 1947 501 Exile jean from J. Crew are complete and utter perfection; however, I’m happy to report I found a pair of considerably cheaper (and somewhat comparable) Levi’s 514s at The Bay. I am going to go try them on today, in fact. Wish me luck.

Levi's 514 jeans. I originally like the wash and detailing, but they didn't really fit. They weren't "the ones"

Shoes

Loafers in every colour

Tod's Gommino loafers with ties. Aren't they the cutest things you ever saw?

As per usual, I am obsessed with the latest colourful offering from Tod’s. I’ll wear them with everything. Do you see a theme developing?

Note: no socks in the summer, please. Thanks.

Canvas shoes in navy and white (and maybe red)

Ked's Champions in navy. Over priced, but a classic nonetheless

I have a distinct memory of my grandma wearing canvas shoes while gardening or running to get the mail. She would buy them from the local corner store in our little Saskatchewan town. These are the classics, in my opinion. And I will be on the look out for the closest thing. Of all places, Urban Outfitters came close last year when they offered cheap pairs of canvas oxford lace-ups held together by plastic thread (the hallmark of cheap footwear). My grandma’s version came in a box, though.

Update: I might have to go with Keds Champions, even though they really lost the spirit and fun of buying cheap shoes by charging over fifty dollars for a pair!

A fancy-yet-sensible pair of brown wingtip shoes

Loake wingtip shoes. Low and behold, I went back to the Bay to find these again, but the display had vanished

I have a few really nice pairs of wingtip shoes, but I don’t own a pair of fancy-yet-sensible ones—the handmade, last-a-lifetime variety. Personally, I’d skip the “Made in Italy” stamp and look for a Canadian, American or British variety. I was recently in The Bay, perusing their (somewhat dismal-but-promising) shoe collection when, like a beacon of light, a display of British-made Loake shoes caught my eye. They’re far and away the most expensive line in the Bay’s shoe section and they have the look of extreme high quality. I’ll start saving now.

Honorable mention:

Chocolate brown boat shoes

Cole Haan leather driver shoes. Well, they kind of pass for boat shoes to me

Accessories

This is the category I invest most of my money in—you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Ties, ties and more ties

Rugby by Ralph Lauren Newburry Unlined Madras Tie

Land's End tie with ant design

Land's End seersucker tie (on sale for $10!)

My favorite way to stock up on ties is to go to Holt Renfrew Last Call and peruse the Polo Ralph Lauren offerings. I’ve found most of my best ties this way. This year I’m on the hunt for lightweight cotton ties and whimsical all-American types to add to my growing collection. I recently discovered the wealth of affordable-yet-high quality ties at Land’s End. I’m not a snob—I just want to look good! Here are a few examples of what I love:

A tie dye tote (like the one I saw the most elegant man in the world carrying in Milan)

Marni shopping bag. This is in no way the tote I described, but I went to the Marni website and kind of fell in love with it.

I have no idea who made this bag, or where I’d find it (although a voice in my head keeps whispering, “It’s a Marni”). I saw a man in Milan carrying a somewhat effeminate colourfully printed tote on his shoulder and I can’t stop thinking about it since. It was one of those perfectly lived in looks. That’s what I loved about the men of Italy. They were well dressed and so up-to-date, yet it looked like their clothes were well-worn. Nothing looked particularly crisp or brand new. Rather, it looked like they quickly threw together the most elegant looks just before they left the house. I, on the other hand, looked like I’d planned my outfits for days (which I did). Decidedly much less cool.

A canary yellow scarf

I should have picked this item up when I saw it on sale at Club Monaco.

Honourable mentions:

The perfect gym bag—the inspiration I need to go to the gym. Could this be the year I re-buy the Gucci duffle?

Gucci large collapsible carry-on duffel

Tortoiseshell Wayfarers

Simple collection of cotton pocket squares

If I have to wear socks, they will be brightly coloured

Selection of socks by Calvin Klein at the Bay

Tom Ford spectacles

Have I inspired you to shop for your new looks this spring? What are YOU interested in buying to wear in the warmer months?

Tea in the Sahara

2010-01-27T13:59:00.000-08:00

I’ve already gulped down several coffees today. And being an avid coffee enthusiast, I’ve enjoyed them all. Immensely. However, as I sit at Red Rocket Coffee—my local coffee shop—I am compelled to pass on the second Americano and get a pot of piping hot tea.

I’m definitely in luck here, because Red Rocket’s tea of choice (and mine) is from Toronto-based Tea in the Sahara. My favorite is 100 Mysteries, a delicious blend of coconut, ginger and cinnamon, but I am currently drinking Busy Being Blue—blue flowers and berries—and I must say it’s one of those rare occasions in tea drinking where the brewed tea tastes as delicious as it smells. Kudos to Tea in the Sahara.

For a full line up of their offerings, visit www.teainthesahara.ca

Check out my local Leslieville coffee shop—and Tea in the Sahara seller— at www.redrocketcoffee.com

p.s. a selection of these teas, which come in beautiful tin boxes, and a bag of Tea in the Sahara’s pretty silk tea bags makes a thoughtful and chic hostess gift. Or, at least I think it does. G, did you like it?

Everybody looks good in white!

2010-01-19T12:08:00.000-08:00

I’d like to devote this post to a wonderful charity that I think my readers should be aware of. It seems that every year a major catastrophe makes us sit up and take notice of how fragile the world is. In 2004 it was the tsunami in Thailand and this year the earthquake in Haiti. As a Canadian sitting back in the comfort of a middle-class existence, sometimes it’s hard to empathize. Sympathy comes much easier.

As you give generously to the relief efforts in Haiti, please consider another charity that will affect people much closer to home — Wear White 4 Windfall.

Each year this anti-poverty and public awareness campaign collects and delivers NEW clothes and essential items and delivers them to people in the Greater Toronto Area who need them most. I’m sure there’s no need to mention that poverty affects people all over the world, but maybe we need to be reminded that could be affecting your neighbour or friend.

On January 28, Wear White 4 Windfall encourages all Torontonians to wear white and donate $4 dollars to the charity. It’s a small way to make a big difference to people in need.

There are several other ways to show your support. Daniel Espinosa designed an exquisite sterling silver charm especially for this year’s campaign.

It can be purchased for $24 and is available at the Daniel Espinosa store at 21 Avenue Road or at ww4w.ca.

If you’re wondering what piece of white clothing you could wear on January 28, Canadian designer Franco Mirabelli provides a fitting option — a chic white tee-shirt.

Here’s a picture of Jonathan and me at the poster and charm launch party at the Daniel Espinosa boutique in Yorkville.

I thought it would be fitting to wear white for the occasion. And, of course, nobody else did. I’ve also cropped the photo because even after all these years of having my picture taken at events, I still don’t know how to pose. I stood with my hands hanging like dead weights facing the camera dead on. But this isn’t about me... it’s about WW4W!

For more information please visit ww4w.ca