Shoe O'the Day

Style Icon: Eva

It is exciting to see individuals who have an original voice that emerges through their personal style. Eva, a favorite subject of photographer Scott Schuman, is one such person. She combines dashes of the unexpected with contemporary silhouettes, always managing to looking unique without the slightest bit 'done' or costumey. She is also a beautiful subject; she radiates a nature beauty and ease in her own skin.

Putting G20 to Rest.

Last night at my 'job' there were numerous televisions playing coverage of the G20 summit riots in downtown Toronto. I believe in freedom of speech- and I am not going to go get into politics but my feeling from watching it all was just how wasteful it was from all ends. So much pointless destruction and violence. I offer up this image to cleanse your mind and heart - mine felt a little heavy after all these visuals. These kittens are dreaming of peaceful, thoughtful and constructive protesting.

Going to NYC in about a month. Cannot contain my enthusiasm for:

A) Getting away for a few days.

B) Did I mention it's New York

I know everyone hypes up New York City but it really is that great and there really is an energy about the city. Last time I went was in the fall with my mom (yes, I am very cool and take my mom on all my big city trips) - I was in charge of planning. I would not say I am a natural planner and I would say my mother is um, p a r t i c u l a r. But NY didn't let me down, with minimal planning the trip unfolded and the last night was spent in a Cuban restaurant we stumbled upon with the greatest 3-piece band and one too many mojitos. Oh, man I can't wait ;)

A home of one's own. That is my dream but alas, it will have to wait...for now, I have my very expensive degree to keep me warm at night. In the mean time- one has to become inventive with small spaces (yes, I once used a closet as a t.v/lounge room..third party standing room only). I am all for getting crazy and creating moments in a room...it actually can make a room seem larger (oddly). My beau and I used some patio furniture to create a little chill-lazy space by our front window. It has become a focal point and a functional point. If you have ideas pass them on.

This is one of the out-takes from a recent shoot I did with local photographer- and a very cool lady indeed- Jaclyn Locke. No one was a big fan of this look with the exception of me (haha)... Sure, Sterling (our lovely and talented model) looks a little like a gypsy fruit salad... but that is the idea. Part of the allure of fashion is the charm found in the audacity and outlandishness of it all. Next time you see me I may be wearing a pile of bananas on my head with a quilt draped over my shoulders. One woman's snack is another woman's accessory.

Effortless style for those that find it an effort? Time and money are issues for most of us- we want to look put- together without being a slave to the mirror or debt collectors. Simple rules create the foundation for dressing with ease. The outfit (left) is from Refinery29.com (an amazing reference for fashion enthusiasts). It demonstrates that key pieces can be combined in fresh ways for maximum milage for your wardrobe and no unnecessary cringing when you refer back to photos of yourself in 5yrs. time! Get a great fitting black bottom (the best quality you can afford) and pair it with a neutral topper- skinny belts and interesting small scale patterns on blouses keep it contemporary without looking too trendy.

I have always had a 'thing' for weddings- but I am quick to clarify that it isn't about the perfect groom (sorry) or the all eyes on me moment for the bride (sorry)...It is more the idea of each newly coupled pair hosting such an event and all the little details that reflect their merging as a new couple-culture. Where they hold it- church or backyard. What they wear- red dress //Hawaiian shirts. Food- crab cakes or sushi? Every wedding I have attended has been like a small window looking into what each couple holds near and dear- their likes and dislikes...and no matter what you feel about marriage or weddings... who doesn't like an open bar? I kid. Here are a few wedding snapshots that show the spectrum of beauty in original expression on such a special day.