Holiday Fashionista

What do we think?

Loved it. Owned it.

I know. I haven't been blogging. That said, you probably haven't been reading. You've been as busy as I have, shopping, lunching with the girls (Ingrid), attending the obligatory Christmas parties and the list goes on.

Thank you to all my lovelies who visited the FSC studio to pick up your holiday finery. You all look so gorgeous I can hardly stand it. Especially you vixens who stole away my penguins. I may never forgive.

Digressing.

Was inspired to post these photos of an FSC member looking fine in her Versace sequins!

Hot. And timeless. The shirt's good too.

I'm In Love

Images: ali-ro.com

....with Ali & Ro.

Girls. When you know and love fashion, it's rare to have your "hair blown back". My hair was blown back last Saturday.

Last weekend, Oliver & Lilly's took me to Vancouver to experience their fabulous new boutique and whip up a Saturday fashion frenzy.

Mission accomplished.

Oliver & Lilly's is the only retailer in Western Canada where you will find my new favorite label, Ali & Ro. Think dresses that make you feel like a lady. Think separates that are ridiculously chic and (gasp!) comfortable. I know. I couldn't believe it either.

So my Saturday consisted of the following:

• trying on the entire store, loving everything
• eating sushi snacks courtesy of, the always cheeky, Darren
• admiring the fabulous customers who actually arrived with new shoes to try with O&L styles (LOVE that)
• dishing with Jen about how amazing the clients looked (it's so much fun helping people shine)
• watching Leighann work her special kind of magic - you MUST experience it first hand.
  

A Saturday in Vancity does not get better.

YAYOBA: Train

(You Are Your Own Best Accessory)





Definition of the verb "train" from Merriam-Webster.com

• to form by instruction, discipline, or drill
• to teach so as to make fit, qualified, or proficient
• to make prepared (as by exercise) for a test of skill
• to aim at an object or objective

I lazily refer to any of my gym time, work out classes or personal training, as "training". Some smarty recently called me out on this reference and asked "What are you training for?" My answer? "Life."

You don't have to train for marathons.

Train to perform better under duress.
Train to climb stairs faster.
Train to play with your grandkids longer.
Train to catch yourself when you're falling.

Training=Discipline=Proficiency=Preparedness

Seoul Style

Images: Jade Lake

Love these cool shots, taken by the lovely Jade Lake, in Seoul, Korea. Some very unique looks and some very stylish ladies. Certainly not afraid of color are they?

Coming Soon: FSC Stylist

You are NOT going to believe this. I used all my powers of persuasion, strong-arming and general bribery to bring this man to Calgary.

Some of you are already familiar with his stylistic-wizardry. For the rest of you, Tim Kenny is an incredibly talented (how long is the list?!): hair stylist, Kundalini yoga teacher, spoken word artist, friend. If you attended the June FSC soiree, Tim needs no introduction.

So, look forward to Tim bringing his razor-sharp style sense (and scissors) to 2009 FSC events. AND, he is pre-booking (tim@fashionistasocialclub.com) Calgary client hair consultations. The line-up starts behind me - sorry girls.

Never Shop Alone. Never Shop?

Let's make this upcoming holiday a little less stressful, shall we? Let's not go shopping on December 24th. Or how about not shopping at all?

If you're not good at, or don't enjoy an activity, outsource it if you can. This is where I come in.

Let FSC do the holiday shopping for you. Give me the low-down (your budget, who you're buying for, what their interests are) and I'll do the rest.

FSC members - did you absolutely love something and not buy it because you were being "practical"? Pass my email on to the gift-buyer in your life. I'll set you (and them) up.

Never Shop Alone - Captured

Many new members attended October's FSC event. You're all too fabulous for words.

Thanks to the brilliant Carla Fedje for the great photos!

Are you feelin' the love? I am.

Shoe Slave: The Red Shoes

Today is a very good day. My quest for the perfect, patent, red shoe is over.

You know I've been obsessing for awhile. Ever since last summer, when I was transfixed by the Marc Jacobs pair.

Since then I've pursued, unsuccessfully, many pairs of red patent shoes. FSC members are the fortunate benefactors of this quest. Specifically, the gorgeous Via Spigas that simply did not fit me. These beauties are still waiting for an FSC member to give them a home.

Back to me.

My search efforts were rewarded today when this pair of Cole Haan pumps arrived. Fit? Perfect. Style? Classic.

And bless the marketing genius at Cole Haan who came up with the Nike Air partnership concept. Cole Haan quality with Nike Air comfort. A match made in Shoe-Slave heaven.

It will be hard to save these babies for the holidays. Will try to control myself.

Image: Still from The Red Shoes

Happy Halloween Sweater Girls!

You're never too young to rock a great sweater.

Case in point, Miss M sporting her Ralph Lauren sweater in the pumpkin patch.

I'm an obnoxious Auntie. I know you don't mind.

Cocktail Anyone?

Trends come and go but true style transcends the trendy. I consider the cocktail ring a timeless element of personal style.

I've always been a fan of the cocktail ring. Perhaps it's because I have (what many would consider) man-hands. If I'm wearing a ring, it has to be BIG and borderline obnoxious.

This season has brought a bounty of cocktail ring options and they truly are a must-have for the holidays.

You don't have to break the bank for these beauties. I've brought in a wide selection of fabulous cocktail rings for my fashionistas - affordable, fun, fabulous sparkles!

Thanks FSC Members!

Image: FSC Member as photographed by Carla Fedje

I love that FSC members are getting to know one another. My girls are so savvy! You remember what each other tried and took home (at previous events). So much fun.

Photos, by the always fabulous Carla Fedje, will be posted soon. If you weren't able to attend last Saturday's event you're in luck. The Fashionista Social Club will reconvene on Saturday, November 15th. I know you need something shiny and new for the holidays and you're way too smart to get "Mall-ed".

Sweater Girls Tomorrow!

Getting everything ready for tomorrow's event.  So much to do!

While you're selecting gorgeous prezzies for yourself - remember it's never too early to shop for Christmas gifts and....

friends don't let friends shop at the mall.

Congrats from FSC!

An original FSC member and good friend recently married the love of her life.

Congratulations Amber and Gerald. Glad you are enjoying some (well-deserved) vacay time in Hawaii.

On a separate note, does it get any more gorgeous? Outside and in.

Sweater Girls News

Knits, knits and more knits. So many options this year with heavy emphasis on cashmere and embellishments.

Julie Gilhart and Simon Doonan discuss one of the season's biggest trends.

Too Many Coats? Never!

Image: AliRo

Awhile back I promised a blog entry on my recommendations for selection of that VERY important wardrobe item, the coat. So here it is, just not on the FSC blog.

Check out my guest post at Oliver & Lilly's for the details. And if you're in Vancouver, set yourself up with some outerwear-finery from O&L's (like the unbelievably adorable coat featured above)!

Fashion Quartered

Mini clothes are just about irresistible. Which is why I HAD to purchase two of this season's biggest trends for Miss M last weekend. It's so easy to indulge someone other than yourself.

Here's Miss M rockin' an animal print dress with a black petticoat. Clearly I'm biased but I know you agree - it doesn't get cuter.

So, the grown up application of these trends are as follows:

- animal print is fabulous in small doses. Unless you're a rock star.
- black is always stylish but keep it current with interesting details.

This outfit was purchased at Pink and Blue, baby couture in Calgary. Sweet service, beautiful clothing and (BONUS) candy for the grown ups. LOVE it.

FSC Event: Sweater Girls

We must, we must, we must increase our...winter wardrobe. The bigger, the better, the more cashmere sweaters!

Loads of beautiful knits plus:

• promotion-worthy career separates
  
• gorgeous coats to make the season transition tolerable
• flattering pants – for real
  
• sparkly things to take your mind off the frost!
  

Need we go on?

Saturday, October 18th - watch for your invite.

Shameless Self Promotion

Image: oliverandlillys.com

Oliver and Lilly's is a new, and totally fabulous, boutique in Vancouver.

I recently had the chance to catch up with O&L's owner, Leighann Boquist, who picked my brain about all things FSC.

Read the interview here.

Autumn Means Cashmere

So excited about the gorgeous cashmere that arrived this afternoon. I had to share a few shots with you - even if the light was all wrong.

Don't fight ladies. These gorgeous sweaters will be available for sale at the next FSC event (October 18th). Or, if you're already a client, you always receive first "dibs". Call me.

Shoe Slave: It's All About The Shoes

Images: Bill Cunningham for the New York Times

The faithful readers of this blog are already aware that SHOES have replaced the 'it' bag. So, the rest of the fashion world is catching up with us.

Watch and listen to Bill Cunningham's gleeful take on New York fashion week and the spectacle of footwear that stole the whole show. If you're a regular listener of Bill's, "On The Street", you will get a kick out of how EXCITED he is this week. Love it.

A few pointers for those who dare-to-wear sky-high heels, here's a refresher from previous posts:

1. Don't wear them if they hurt (or if you're not woman enough to grin and bear it).
2. If the shoes hurt a wee bit - NEVER admit it (this is April's commandment and it's absolutely accurate). Let people admire your footwear. If you admit the shoes are killing you, you look like an idiot. A fashion victim. This is not stylish.
3. It's always prudent to pack a second pair of shoes (in your stylishly oversized bag). This does not mean flip-flops (as featured in BC's photos) or trainers. This means stylish, comfortable shoes that coordinate well with the outfit you're wearing.
4. Stand up straight. Rock the height and revel in your fabulousness.

I practice what I preach. Below are a few of my recent addictions. I mean, additions:

We Belong In The City

Thanks LB for this cute little quiz. Evidently, I belong in London.....so far from Calgary.

You Belong in London

A little old fashioned, and a little modern. A little traditional, and a little bit punk rock. A unique soul like you needs a city that offers everything. No wonder you and London will get along so well.

What City Do You Belong In?

FSC For The Boys

A lot of people ask if I provide personal shopping and fashion assistance for men. The short answer is "Yes". The long answer....is a little longer.

Most of the beautiful clothing I purchase and inventory is for the ladies. So boys, unless you're a drag queen, you won't find any duds in my studio. However, I do work with male clients individually.

The photo above is my friend and client who lives in Victoria, BC. He attended a "White Wedding" (guests were asked to wear white attire) last weekend and was at a loss for fashion alternatives.

We discussed his preferences and sizes and came up with a look for the event. I then shopped the outfit and individually purchased each piece, primarily online. My client picked up the footwear and the white dress shirt.

Needless to say, I was VERY excited to see the entire outfit pulled together. As quite clearly, it was a roaring success. A few words from the well-dressed gent:

"When my friend added a requested dress code to her wedding, I was almost brought to tears of stress and agony. But I consulted with FSC master stylist, Laura, and through the technology of the web she was working her magic from 100's of km's away."

Ginch Gab: She Really Likes Her Underwear

Image: princessetamtam.com

I found this hilarious ad in "Best of Craigslist". Now this is a woman who is SERIOUS about her underwear. I can relate to her attachment.



MY BRA- I'D LIKE IT BACK. NO DATE REQUIRED. - w4m
Date: 2008-08-02, 11:10AM PDT


ok. so i don't know really how to go about this.

basically, i was your one night stand last night and need my most important idem of clothing back--> my bra.

so yes, i was totally fine with the fact that when i left this morning we didn't exchange phone numbers (or names...); no big deal. but once i got home and sobered up, i realized, that we maybe should have because i left my bra at your house.

first off, i want to get something clear. this is no victoria secret-esq type bra. this is an imported good were talking about. princess tam tam-french lingerie.

ok. specifics about you. (what i remember.) they are not going to be too specific because my friends are on this all the time and think i took a cab home last night.

you are:
1) outrageously tall and good looking.
2) a commercial real estate broker from the san jose, but lives in the financial district in the city with an asian friend whom i believe, was celebrating his birthday.
3) going to slide saturday night.
4) really into golf, in fact went friday.
5) a fan of red gumm y bears.

i am:
1) someone who obviously loves her underwear.
2) obsessed with french everything.
3) not really into children. something we have in common.
4) occasionally from time to time caught wearing my clothes inside out.
5) "anna"- (my name.)


so, where to go from here. basically, i'm willing to do whatever it takes. i can come pick it up, you can mail it to me, i can just have you leave it outside your building at a certain agreed upon time. what ever.

i hope to god you don't feel weird about this, because i don't. i obviously didn't leave it there on purpose. like i said, i'm not looking for you to take me out or call me. for god's sake, i'm resorting to craigslist for a grey bra. it's just a super cute one and i want it back. plus, it doesn't seem like you'll use it. you just didn't come off as that type.

please people. if this is you, or sounds like someone you know who fits this "john doe" profile, please contact me.

Rave Reviews For Sunglass Hut

Image: my current faves modeled by a client's baby brother

So my FAVORITE sunglasses of the season fell apart in my hands the other day. The arm literally fell off while I was gently cleaning them.

I was dreading returning them to the Sunglass Hut. Firstly, because I hate the mall. Secondly, because I was expecting a return, or repair, debacle.

Let's just say the return experience was the BEST I have ever had.

The salesperson, who was the only person on the sales floor:

• juggled multiple customers
• looked up my purchase on the computer (I didn't have the receipt with me)
• examined my broken sunglasses and,
• handed me my glasses back - fixed!

Stupefied, I asked "How did you do that so fast?" She answered, "It's a brand new pair."

As I returned to my vehicle, dazed and confused, I had two thoughts:

"I can't wait to get out of the parkade to put these babies on."
"I can't wait to get home and blog about this service."

Announcing: Oliver and Lilly's

Oliver and Lilly's is now open for business in Vancouver!

Check out the rave review this lovely boutique received in today's Sweetspot. An excerpt:

"We've always dreamt of having a stylish best friend's closet to delve into when our own wardrobe went dry (you know, about a week after our latest shopping spree). Her place would be bright and spacious, and she'd be warm, smiley and always happy to help us find the perfect piece.

Or we could skip the inevitable you-stretched-my-sweater drama and head straight to Oliver & Lilly's, a charming boutique just opened last Friday by the lovely Leighann Boquist."

Make sure you check out Oliver and Lilly's when you're in Vancouver.

Shoe Slave: Strength In Numbers

FSC members love a deal. Almost as much as we love our shoes. This is why we share our fab-finds with one another.

Pictured above are the shoes purchased on the latest FSC shopping expedition in Quebec City. Notice the focus on "practical" footwear (we were on a sporty vacation). Notice the many multiples. What are the odds of actually wearing the same shoes as your friend on the same day? Even if we did, does it really matter?

The ladies didn't think so, and I agreed.

Dress Code

Image: Calvin Klein Tuxedo Trend Fall 2008

The next FSC event will feature great pieces for fall, with a strong focus on career wear. You know, my favorite kind of work clothes - the ones you can wear on the weekend too. Great blazers, interesting pants, cool accessories and much more.

I've brought in a number of tuxedo blazers (a hot item for fall) that are perfect for work and look great with jeans too. Event announcement coming soon.

Until then, here's a funny take on dress code from richstevens.com:

Dress Code:

You are advised to come to work dressed according to your salary.

If we see you wearing Prada shoes and carrying a Gucci bag, we will assume you are doing well financially and therefore do not need a raise.

If you dress poorly, you need to learn to manage your money better, so that you may buy nicer clothes, and therefore you do not need a raise.

If you dress just right, you are right where you need to be and therefore you do not need a raise.

Shoe Slave: The Search For Navy

Image: Net-a-Porter.com

Image: Gothamcityonline.com

Any woman who works in an ultra-corporate environment, probably has a navy suit hanging in her closet. I have a few. The problem is this: how to find a fashionable, professional, navy shoe?

I do enjoy matching my footwear to my pantsuit for a conservative and understated look. Alternatives to the navy shoe are black, brown or ox-blood. I'm partial to the ox-blood option, which is what I currently wear. A few other footwear choices would be nice though.

I found this ridiculously gorgeous pair of Marc Jacobs at Net-A-Porter. Sadly, they are not within my budget, even on sale. But they are dreamy, aren't they?

The sequined, Jill Stuart navy shoe is also gorgeous but not really appropriate for day-wear.

So, if any of you ladies out there can find an ungranny, high-heeled, navy shoe....bring it. My search continues.

The Latest in Cuff-Wear

Apologies for not blogging this week. I'm currently sporting some immobilizing wrist braces to heal my strained wrists.

Note To Self: Less Sporty-Spice, more Posh.

NAPs Top 20 For Fall

Leopard Sunglasses from Anthropologie

Roots French Cafe Tote

Net-A-Porter published their top 20 "must-haves" for fall.

A couple of highlights, and some of my personal favorites are:

• The Shoe Boot
• The Sweater Dress
• Animal Prints (yes leopard print - love it)
• The Day Tote (big bags that hold everything from lap-top to lipstick)

Shopping for fall and winter is so much fun! Layers, gorgeous fabrics, boots, scarves and hats. The bag and shades above are more affordable examples of NAPs trends. Love the Roots bag.

Let's Discuss: Coats

Image: Always my fave - trinaturk.com

Yes, I realize it's the end of July. In Canada, this means it's time to gear up for winter.

The most important wardrobe item this, and every fall? The coat.

I am a life long lover of the coat. My closets are full of them. Different options for every season. Fall coats, deep-dark-winter coats, formal coats, just-running-to-the-store coats - you name it, I've got it. It's not my shopaholic tendencies that have filled my front hall closet with coats - it's laziness.

You see, a great coat covers a myriad of evils. A great coat is the piece people notice when you're running errands in your painting clothes. A great coat, along with your most fabulous shades, will disguise your no makeup day and you'll look fabulous.

So now I have you thinking about coats, watch this blog for what to look for when buying one. Hint: start looking (and shopping) now.