Currently viewing the tag: "Fossil"
Hello darlings (dah-lings), as the Brits say.
{ White linen blouse from Brooks Brothers – have you seen their blog?? You must! - Zara skirt, vintage Pierre Cardin clutch, Zara flats & Fossil watch }
Dressed and en route to dinner in Chelsea with my girl friend’s family who live here in London. They took us to Bluebird, a fabulous spot in the Chelsea area that was quite a “see and be seen” kind of place (a fashionista’s favourite). Everyone dining there was very smartly dressed, from their designer shoes to their coiffed hair and perfectly casual rolled up shirts on the men. Men take note: the Brits have one over on you in style; everyone wears a nicely tailored colourful shirt (pastel shades), tucked into classic dark denim, suede loafers, a gorgeous leather belt and some sort of smart hair style, usually a side part. It’s all very dapper here in England. (I must make a note though, that my boyfriend also dresses this way and so for that I swoon and say thank goodness and lucky me – a Vancouver man who really knows how to dress. Let’s go off on a wee tangent for a moment: last Saturday night boyfriend, a.k.a. George, picked me up to go to Joe Fortes for dinner wearing slim dark denim, a white collared shirt under a grey sport jacket complete with a slim back tie, black leather shoes and a roly. I died. So, so pleased!)
We are currently staying in London’s Kensington area where you find rows upon rows of gorgeous white town house with black gates and fresh flowers. It’s really quite a beautiful spot of London, we’re lucky to be staying here!
Xo StyleStruck
Sunday morning I met my man, George, and my Mum for breakfast at Savary Island Pie Company across the Lions Gate Bridge in West Vancouver. It’s just a short couple of bus rides away from my home in the West End, and so worth the journey. The cafe (at 15th and Marine Drive), is packed with oddly matched tables and chairs, lamps and collected pictures and decorative bits. It is also home to the best muffins, pies and pastries in Vancouver (my opinion). And what a delight to park yourself in the sunny window and gaze out onto Marine Drive while sipping a vanilla latte – which is what I did while I waited for my company. Afterwards, we went for a stroll along the Ambleside Pier and George snapped a few blog-worthy pictures for me. I’ve been dying to blog about this new skirt that I recently picked up at Zara. It is, to me, my own little piece of Jil Sander, S/S 2011. However, my mother referred to me as “bohemian” (eeeeek! The antithesis of my style!) and my boyfriend referred to my skirt as “my gown.” But I love it, I think it is perfectly casual. I look forward to pairing this skirt with my Chanel platforms and a crisp white button-down shirt.
Wearing: Zara jacket, Guess cardigan, H&M tank, Zara skirt and sandals. Tiffany’s heart bracelet, and other bracelet by an unknown designer – I picked out the pieces at a shopping fair at Heritage Hall on Main St. years ago (previously seen here), Stella & Dot rose gold and silver stackable “Eternity” rings, vintage pearl ring and Fossil rose gold watch. Gianni Chiarini leather carry-all.
H&M sunnies and pearl earrings from who-knows-where. Spending time back in West Van was wonderful, it is so beautiful, particularly in the summer.
Xo StyleStruck
This past weekend my man and I ventured down to Seattle for a little get-away, and a little shopping. Between enjoying deliciously flavored coffees from the original Pike Place Starbucks (mmm cinnamon dolce latte that I couldn’t keep off my new white blouse), sight seeing and changing shoes (I brought 5 pairs for two days), I found a few treats to bring home:
A “candied cherry” scented L’Occitane candle. It’s official, I am obsessed with scented candles. As seen here, and here.
My cognac-colored leather passport holder by Danier. Not new, but it was the first time in many months that I was able to use it.
A new, gloriously sparkly, Chanel lipgloss from Macy’s. The last time I purchased a Chanel gloss was last August from the Chanel on 5th Ave in Manhattan (wearing my Chanel sandals, of course). That one lasted until this past week, so of course I was due for a new one. Chanel Levres Scintillantes Glossimer #119. Be warned: give a man a kiss while wearing this, and he shall be left covered in sparkles, long after he wipes it off. Hehe.
I mentioned to boyfriend while eyeing a pair snakeskin peep-toe Christian Louboutin pumps in Barney’s that I adored a snakeskin shoe, and look what he picked out later that day: snakeskin printed leather Via Spigas. Fabulous taste. I wore them to dinner later on at the waterfront with a pinkish, nude-colored mesh skirt and white military inspired blouse. (Below)
Happy feet! And this was the only picture I got of this outfit (skirt and blouse by Express). Very sadly we forgot to have our picture snapped at dinner Sunday evening, and he did look so handsome, shame.
Strawberry gelato in Pike Place as a refreshing pick-me-up mid-shop. Wearing: Tommy Hilfiger blouse, Fidelity denim, Zara flats and Kate Spade tote. Fossil watch.
This triple-strand of green beads from Macy’s for a knock-your-socks-off price of $8. I love sales. And toting Kate around (my yellow tote), that also made/makes me happy.
The entire trip was wonderful and delightful and I can’t wait to run off to someplace fabulous again. Speaking of which, I’ve just booked an international flight. I’ll be blogging to you direct from Paris this summer! Je dois apprendre le français rapidement!
Au revoir mes belles!
Xo StyleStruck
Monday morning and I’m up at 8:15 getting a report into work (via email – which meant I got to do my work whilst wearing PJs). A quick breakfast run around the corner to Safeway and Starbucks, clad in sneakers (Coach), flared, faded jeans (Citizens – from twelfth grade), and an easy military jacket (Talula), and I’m back home whipping eggs and milk into a frenzy, pre-heating the stove and grabbing the syrup, cinnamon and butter. Mmmm french toast and caramel coffee.
Soon enough my morning escape was over and it was back to the computer to return emails, make appointments and do work-related research. Finally, in the late afternoon the sun decided to peak out of the clouds and I felt brave enough to don spring sandals – pre-loved, Christian Louboutin gold and cork sandals.
Something about this stealth panda said to me: designer sandals. I dig a mix of casual and fabulous.
Wearing: Zara leather bomber jacket, gifted Ebon Aves t-shirt, Odyn denim, H&M clutch, Fossil rose gold watch, rose gold bangle from Blue Ruby and Christian Louboutin sandals.
Stories: Clothes come to me by way of friends, family, blogging, splurging and searching. This leather jacket has been one of my staples for years now. I think it gives denim a James Dean feel and dainty floral skirts an edge. One night not too long ago I thought it was stolen at a party, I nearly lost it. What is a girl to do without a leather jacket?? And you know how hard it is to find just the right one! This t-shirt is a new addition to my closet courtesy of Ebon Aves, (pronounced eh-bon ay-veez), a local graphic apparel company that creates wittily printed t-shirts. This particular design said something to me, something along the lines of: I am a cheeky panda. What’s not to love? Odyn jeans are not easy to find, and I first found this pair at (212) in Gastown one afternoon just before a big trip to NYC in 2008. I used to rock them with cool sneakers, now in my old(er) age, I opt for heels. The Louboutins are a Christmas gift from my sister, another piece of her Holts collection that has found a new home in my closet. These shoes, which were not produced as part of a Christian Louboutin collection, were designed and made specifically for a Diane Von Furstenburg runway show a few years ago and then later sold through Holt Renfrew. I wonder which model wore them before I did… interesting past life for a pair of sandals! The clutch was a birthday gift from a good friend, a friend with great taste!
By late afternoon I was also ready for another caffeine fix in the form of a London Fog (above), though, Starbucks doesn’t make them like Delaney’s does. Not enough vanilla I suppose. That, and I’m partial to the local coffee shops – proximity won this time.
Note: I often do posts about my apartment and I am a little embarrassed to show you how lame my baseboards are, but those are one of the things you can’t change in a rental unfortunately. For now, do me the courtesy of ignoring their hideousness. Thank you.
If you’d like to check out more t-shirt designs by Ebon Aves Apparel, click HERE, or visit Lüt Boutique at 4219 Main St. in Vancouver.
Wearing: Simply Irresistible Leopard print sweater, Dynamite white tank, studded leather belt from Zara, Fidelity black waxed denim, Steve Madden patent leather buckled boots. Fossil watch, vintage ring from NYC. Pink MAC lip colour seen here.
This morning I woke up to the smell of fresh sheets, it’s one of my favourite things ever. Last night I crawled into bed and lit a delicious Soapology candle, with a scent called “morning dew,” making my room smell even more delicious. (I also watched The Bachelor as I enjoyed the romantic candle-light with Marie. I’m a sucker for that show.) I did a little work from bed, oh the luxury of a lap top and working from home, and then finally got on with the day, starting with a few pictures. Leopard and leather called to me this morning. Now I must be off to run around town checking errands off my list!
What little things make you happy on these never-ending cloudy days?
Xo StyleStruck
The sun was shining brilliantly today so I haaadd to break out a Spring piece – this light, white jacket. I love white on the Summer time, also apparently in the Winter! With all it’s black detailing this jacket felt right for a sunny day in February. With thigh-high boots, naturally.
Wearing: Zara jacket, BCBG sweater vest, black turtle neck from years ago, brand unknown, Zara pleated leather skirt, H&M tights, Aldo leather boots, Fossil rose gold watch, aviators from an NYC street stand ($3). And that sweet kitten is Marie!
Xo StyleStruck
Certain people in your life influence you in ways you do not notice. Like when I started layering sweaters over collared shirts, I’d say that was because I used to spent a lot of time around a young man that liked to dress that way. I’ve left him to the pocket squares and loafers, though. Heels for me, please. Just after Christmas I went for a family lunch with my mother, her two cousins (one 61, the other 80), and my grandmother (90). For such an occasion I felt it was appropriate to dress conservatively, only to be told by my charming sister later that I looked like I was 40. Well, then fine. I look like I’m 40, and I’m happy about it.
Wearing: Ralph Lauren Sport cable-knit pull over, Zara button-up shirt, Fidelity denim, Rockport boots found at Winners. Fossil rose gold watch and $3 aviators purchased from a street vendor in midtown Manhattan.
I later went to Guilt & Co. in Gastown in this outfit, doesn’t everyone go out in a collared shirt?
Xo SS
As you can guess, today I spent the day at the office, writing pitches, researching meeting new faces and best of all, learning. This lovely soft grey top I’m wearing is courtesy of a lovely LA based PR lady from itgirl public relations, representing the Momentous Moments collection by ANAMA. The ANAMA collection pieces are luxurious and extremely eco-friendly, the fabric is an all-natural cellulose fiber made from beech wood. This also means that the fabric is so soft and comfortable.
My skirt is a project from my twelfth grade sewing class, we had to design our own skirts and then draft the patterns. I’ve always had a soft spot for tweed, so I chose this powder blue version, I still remember sewing the panels together. Now I’m getting nostalgic for my sewing days… or years rather, (I spent much of 2004-2007 sitting at a sewing machine). Boots are again the Sirens faux leather boots with my no-name tights and Fossil rose gold watch. MAC Lustre lipstick in Blow Dry. Oh, and just below is little Marie, how I love that fur ball. New blonde high lights done at Suki’s – love Suki’s for their great customer care and oh-so-fabulous head massages at the washing basin.
I better run, I’ve got to pack (and who knows how long that’s going to take!), before going out for dinner this evening. And must be to bed early tonight, 7 am flight to Toronto tomorrow morning! EAST COAST HERE I COME! Eeeeee!
Xo StyleStruck
That’s what the weather man reported for today’s weather! I LOVE IT. I finally get to pull out all my winter coats and accessories and have them put to good use. Last year I was DYING to wear this cape and my new fur earmuffs, but it was too warm all the way up to November! Then I went to NYC, and of course packed lots of coats, only to arrive to t-shirt weather. FINALLY! COLD! Sorry to all those who can’t stand this weather, but perk up, get yourself a holiday coffee and enjoy this crisp air while it’s here.
Happy Mittens. Wearing: Vintage plaid wool cape, H&M scarf, 525 America ribbed sweater, Target black tank, vintage faux leather pants, Report suede and leather boots, Fossil rose gold watch, Francesco Biasia leather bag, aviators from an NYC street vendor, Talula wool mittens. 
I wore this outfit today to do a little errand running. Stop #1: HomeSense for a new bed throw – last night I was so chilly I could barely sleep. I didn’t find one I liked, though I did see one at Hermes yesterday that I quite liked, and it was only $1200. I’ve decided to purchase one in Toronto,that way I can bring home something fabulous for my apartment. Stop #2: IGA Marketplace for an apple strudel-for sustenance. Stop #3: Chintz & Co. Chintz used to be more fun, but now everything is so darn overpriced! I saw my lucite chairs, mirrored table, place mats and candlestick holders all there all for at least double what I paid, either at The Cross, Urban Barn or HomeSense. Geez Chintz. Stop #4: The Cross for white and blue silk ribbon – you’ll see what I’m using it for soon! More festive decorating!
Last week while perusing Twitter I noticed that Stuart Weitzman was holding a Twitter contest to win SW high heel paperclips. All you had to do was be the first person to retweet their tweet! Yayy! I was the first! Yesterday I received my very stylish paperclips in the mail. Follow @Stuart_Weitzman here for your chance at one of their fabulous contests!
Must be off to accomplish real work now, and decorate, and feed Marie, and nap.
Ta ta,
StyleStruck
I leave you with a cute Christmas song…
This morning I woke up to the most annoying sound: my alarm. I hate that thing. But, I must obey its command, otherwise I’ll be late. Since the beginning of September I spend every Tuesday morning at Best Buy Canada‘s head office working in Corporate Communications. My job there being part time, I do the rest from home. But on these days when I do the hour long commute to the office, I like to dress the part. Luckily for me, the dress code at Best Buy Canada’s Head Quarters is quite relaxed, so denim is okay. Here’s what I wore today:
Sitting in my living room wearing an H&M ruffled cardigan, H&M scarf, Dynamite white tank, Fidelity Denim black waxed skinnies, Marc by Marc Jacobs patent leather mary-janes and my Fossil watch. Bag displayed under the coffee table is Kate Spade.
On my way home, I stopped at Metrotown and picked up a very cute hot pink work-out zip-up hoodie that I plan to wear as I ascend the million steps on the Grouse Grind tomorrow afternoon. But not before I hit Skoah for a facial, I think when asked what time we should do the grind I told my friend, “Um, well I have an appointment in Yaletown in the morning…” Those are my favourite kind of appointments. ; )
Xo StyleStruck
Brittany Yu and I at Opus, holding two drinks for the sake of a party photo. (Wearing: Vintage sequin jacket, H&M oversized tee, Fidelity black jeans, vintage ring, Fossil watch and I have no idea who made my leather bracelet. Oh, and I had on my nude Stuart Weitzman pumps!)
Thursday night Opus played host to a very stylish group of fashion enthusiasts celebrating Obakki and Painted Rock Winery. There were Chanel shoes, sequin skirts, velvet jackets and endless high heels. I attended with friend Brittany Yu, one half of Stiletto Marketing, a local PR, social media and marketing agency. The wine was fabulous, the Obakki models beautifully dressed and the crowd happy. All in all, a very fun night out! The party benefitted the Savong School and Orphanage in Cambodia.
The party was so fun in fact, I forgot to take pictures. Luckily a few others snapped a few!
An Obakki model on display.
Operation Style‘s Jillian Crago and Anthony Sedlak.
Plaid and sequins.
Xo StyleStruck
Can you tell I’m having a french moment? It’s because I am absolutely DYING to go to Paris. DYING. I am in the midst of trying to learn a little french, hence my integration of the language in my blog posts. Plus, what is chicer than french? (By the way, “Style frappé dans le village ouest” means “StyleStruck in the West Village,” a.k.a. Greenwich!)
Saturday morning I headed out of the hotel in search of breakfast nearby. Strolled down a few blocks and ended up, by accident, exactly in front of the Empire State Building! Quelle chance! Fabuleux! In all my time in NYC, I’ve never been up the Empire State Building! Breakfast was put on hold as I wanted to check it out. (If you’re going to do the Empire State Building, I highly recommend going early in the morning, I was there around 10 am and for once, there was no line! I’ve seen the line go around the block, and then what you don’t know is that once inside the building, there are several floors with ropes set up like mazes designed for more waiting. It could take hours.) The view was breathtaking, I’m so glad I did it!
Oooh squinty sun! Wearing: Sirens ruffled top, Talula spandex tank, vintage Levi’s cut offs, Zara leather flats, Fossil watch, bracelet from a SoHo street vendor, Gianni Chiarini leather carry-all.
At the tip there, that’s downtown Manhattan. With the Hudson River on the left, and the East River on the right, (I think).
Looking at the Upper East and West Sides, with Central Park in the middle!
The Chrysler Building!
Off in the distance is the Brooklyn Bridge. If you go to NYC, I highly recommend walking across the bridge, it is such a wonderful experience and view is incredible!
After breakfast I went off to the West Village to do a little sight seeing and shopping! The West Village is home to the 4 or 5, I can’t keep count, Marc Jacobs stores, with most of them being on Bleecker St. If you walk further down Bleecker, you come to Jane St! And right near Jane St. is one of my favourite New York City stores, Darling.
This is the shop, called Darling, where I purchased my favourite vintage rings, and going back again did not disappoint! This time round I picked up a vintage silk scarf with navy and purple lions and a vintage pony hair leopard print belt.
After darling I visited a shop called Soapology, where I found the most delicious soy candles and walnut face and body scrub.
After shopping and sight seeing, (Carrie’s apartment on Perry St!), I took myself for lunch at The Pink Tea Cup. A small restaurant where the servers wear all black with touches of hot pink! The perfect place to order a glass of pink champagne.
Okay that’s it for now! Stay tuned for Part II of Day IV! It features the wedding and a couple fabulous designers you may recognize!
Friday morning I awoke with a mission: do not let last night’s festivities affect today’s adventures! I feel as though I was rather successful. I don’t have a picture of my outfit for the day, so I’ll just tell you what I wore. A bright peachy orange dress-jumper from French Connection with white leather Zara flats and a sequin purse with a chain strap. And biiig shades to cover my tired eyes! (3 pairs of aviators, the only style of sunnies I like, for $10!) We hopped in a taxi to SoHo where we found a very quaint and charming restaurant serving breakfast sandwiches on fresh croissants and mimosas. Sooo good! After breakfast I was left on my own to shop around, and boy did I do that. First to TopShop where I found a great Rodarte-esque cardigan and 6″ platform heels with a great floral pattern. I also picked up a bracelet and three adorable old Vogue images, with mattes and frames from street vendors. A very successful shopping day! Afterwards I went along home to take a nap before heading out for a big dinner downtown. Here’s what I wore:
Matthew Williamson for H&M wrap dress, Guess by Marciano gold hoop earrings, Marc by Marc Jacobs clutch, Aldo elephant ring, Fossil watch, Stuart Weitzman nude pumps.
After dinner there was no hope of rallying for a second night out, off to the land of dreams back at the Ace.
- End of Day 3 -
Monday morning I arrived back in Vancouver after a very long and grueling 22 hours of traveling, (darn weather caused us to miss a connecting flight leaving us stranded at the SeaTac Airport at 12 am, how ultra glam). But I’d like to start this fashion story at the beginning! So here we go, with Day 1 of the NYC 2010 trip:
Sitting on the floor at the Minneapolis airport waiting for the connecting flight to JFK. Just flipping through Marie Claire when I saw THE KENSIE AD! Gorgeous! Faithful readers may remember I was behind the scenes at this photo shoot, seen here.
We had to get up at 3 am last Wednesday morning to catch the flight to Minneapolis, which explains my “look.” Although I was proud of myself for getting a bit of a tan before we left, (usually I am the palest of pale). My girlfriend Steph and I spent the day at English Bay on Tuesday… I really enjoyed the slide. (Wearing a Victoria’s secret bikini).
Finally we arrived in New York, at the JFK airport in Queens. The drive into Manhattan was absolutely gorgeous and was a brilliant welcome to the city!
About 8:30 pm we checked into the Ace Hotel in Midtown. I LOVE this hotel, if you’ve been reading Vogue the past few months, you know of the Ace. Alexander Wang has been featured there for his latest work, as well as countless other mentions in the various columns of the magazine. Clearly, Anna is a fan of the Ace.
Even after a long, long day of traveling, when you are in New York, you do not sleep, you go out! So we re-dressed and grabbed a cab headed for the Meatpacking District in search of a fabulous dinner. Just casually strolling through the Ace hallway en route to the elevator…
Wearing: Vintage black chiffon blouse over a Talula spandex tank, Zara leather skirt, Zara faux snakeskin heels, vintage Pierre Cardin snakeskin clutch, white enamel bangle from Macy’s and a rose gold Fossil watch.
Tommy picked the restaurant for the night, which was the Old Homestead Steakhouse, keeper of the most delicious sirloin I’ve ever tasted. As well as a knockout cosmo. Full and happy, it was back to the Ace for some much needed rest!
- End of Day 1 -
Woke up one day last week, checked my day timer and saw that I had a couple appointments for the day. One casual, a lovely brunch with a girlfriend who I spent time galavanting around Manhattan with a couple years back, (actually, you may have seen her on this month’s Vancouver Magazine cover! The gorgeous model in the black one-piece; Andrea Milner!) Then an appointment with local boutique Invito Couture to check out the new fall collection.
Wearing: Blouse brand unknown, Sirens spandex tank, Zara leather skirt, (as seen here), Fossil rose gold watch, H&M bracelet and an Italian leather bag, brand unknown, shoes, (which you can’t see yet, are Nine West).
With Invito Couture co-owner Yeliz Delaney in front of their Tinseltown store.
The owners of Invito Couture invited me down to their shop to become better acquainted with their merchandise and have a look at what’ll be hitting their racks in the coming fall months! The store boasts a fantastic selection of evening gowns and party frocks, but also a wide array of cocktail dresses, some casual enough for a dinner date. The line is brought exclusively to Canada by Prahlad and Yeliz from Turkey, where the dresses are designed and made. Upon close inspection of the garments you can tell there is a lot of passion and care behind each piece as there is great attention to detail and a lot of integrity behind the label. Something you might find interesting is that Yeliz and Prahlad only bring in one or two dresses of each design, meaning you’ll be guaranteed to avoid those awkward, “Oh my gosh, we’re wearing the same dress!” moments we all cringe at. I bring you a look at some of my favourite looks from Invito Couture, and invite you to check out their store in the Tinseltown mall!
Co-owner Prahlad Delaney shows off a silver satin number.
I was admiring the studs on this Fall 2010 dress…
So naturally I had to try it on! And then another…
Everyone needs a gown in their closet, we ought to all get fabulously dressed up more often, don’t you think?
Thank you to Yeliz and Prahlad for having me to their store! Check them out here and visit them in Tinseltown!
Now I must be off, the final touches must be put on my packing before I can leave for New York City in the morning! (This is why I’ve been slacking a bit on the blog posts!) Expect a FULL report when I get back!
Xo StyleStruck
Last night, Chanel hosted a cocktail, (or champagne), party at their new beauty and fragrance bar in Holt Renfrew. The space is GORGEOUS! It is truly a Chanel wonderland of sparkly lip gloss, perfume galore and the latest Shanghai collection of nail polish. I’ll have to be careful about going near it, as I know I’ll be bound to find a few, or a lot, of things I just have to have! The party-goers last night were an eclectic mix of local celebrities, (Erin Ireland, Elisa Estrada), Chanel clients, beauty gurus, PR pros, bloggers and people from the office of Chanel.
Niki Blasina, of A Haute Mess, and me at the event! Love this girl’s style, and fierce boots!
With Ryan Bazely, of PINQ.
DJ Blondtron, a.k.a. Samantha Mathews spinning for Chanel.
Maria Jose Hernandez Cos and Nadia Chu of String Magazine with Marilyn Wilson of Vancouver Fashion Ezine.
The fabulous Niki and I went for a little Granville stroll after the party.
Wearing: BCBG Max Azria silk top, B.B. Dakota skirt, Chanel sandals, Marc by Marc Jacobs clutch, Fossil watch.
Thank you to the PR & Event team at Holts and at Chanel for putting on such a wonderful party, and for inviting me! And THANK YOU for the swag bags!! Eeee CHANEL USB STICK! Best thing ever!
Now off to play in the sun!
Xo StyleStruck
Blogger’s Disclaimer: These are my thoughts. I may be ridiculous, I may be brilliant, (it has yet to be determined), but I’m on the road to figuring it all out, and this post is part of that. So I ask that you read this post as though you and I were having a conversation, a casual discussion of a current topic. Thank you in advance. And please do leave your thoughts below in the comments section!
Sitting on a Yaletown patio, (Starbucks), thinking about biz. Notice, I’m wearing a collared shirt, which is obviously very professional and pretty much makes me a bonafide business woman, (insert touch of sarcasm). (A Tommy Hilfiger collared shirt. From Winners. Love Winners.)
Today I’m thinking about perceived value, and how you can create that in the way you establish your own personal brand. Recently BC Business published a blog post on their site about perceived value, from blogger Tommy Humphreys, author of The Shift Key, and it made me re-think my strategy in terms of how I position myself as I build my career. Being a blogger, or a “fashion blogger,” as I’m often introduced as, (I prefer: “fashion, lifestyle and PR blogger,” but no biggie ; )), it can be tricky deciding who and what I should and should not align myself with. This is true with every single brand, and I think every organization really has to think and do their homework to make sure that when they do choose to partner with another brand, that their ideals, goals and values line up. If they don’t, the brand value can be damaged. What I’m aiming for, in terms of brand perception, and this is a lofty goal here, so get ready, is to be perceived as a luxury brand, like a Chanel, or YSL blogger. I don’t say this because I literally have hopes to work with such luxury brands, (though, wouldn’t that be a fierce job!), but I mean it in the sense that I hope for my brand to hold serious cred in the minds of those in my industry. Take Chanel for instance, we all want a piece of it. We love Chanel for the craftsmanship, the quality, the sense that it is special and limited in quantity and of course the fact that it is indeed, very top shelf. (I’ve got Chanel on the brain as I am currently wearing the CC sandals.) The ideal situation for a blogger is to be taken seriously, to be understood and of course, to be wanted. What I’m trying to get at, is when you are building a brand, and trying to create a strong, positive perception around that brand, how do you know when an opportunity to work with a company is a good or bad choice for you? I’ve asked around and put together a short list of check points that should align when such a relationship is considered:
1. Values: Is there a shared set of values? Think community involvement, philanthropy, treatment of employees, quality of life and quality of work.
2. Goals: Are you working towards common goals? When thinking about a brand partnership, consider what kind of relationship you’d like to create with the potential partner, is it short-term or long-term? And does the potential partner want to create short or long-term relationships with their clients? (The obvious answer is of course long-term, but many companies do not operate this way. As I’m sure you’ve noticed when you didn’t receive good customer service at that restaurant you visited recently when they forgot your food and then it was cold. Just an example.) Do their financial goals match with yours in terms of budgets and what kind of money each part of the budget is worth. Example: Is having an influential host at your event worth paying for? (Answer: Probably. It pays, literally, to have a job well done.)
3. Mission: What are you working towards? Does this potential partnership aid in growing your biz/brand? Do both brands hope to make a difference in society through their work?
4. Target Market: So important! Are you and your potential partner selling to the same market? This is an easy one to figure out, and it’s a deal breaker. If your markets align, then fabulous, if not, what is the point of such a relationship? If you want to be the Chanel of your industry, align with companies who also strive to be at the very top of their game, with brands of value.
I shall now take my own advice and (try to) apply it to my own decisions. Tell me what you think.
- SS
And what I wore while I wrote this business-themed post: Tommy Hilfiger striped collared short, white denim Trina Turk shorts, Chanel platform sandals, rose gold fossil watch, vintage bling, H&M sunnies and a tan leather Makowsky bag. Laptop by Apple. Just another day at the office!
This morning I put together a little photo shoot wearing a DIY project I did a few weeks ago. I had a leather jacket from Zara from years ago that needed a little love, and a fur caplet I purchased at a vintage store some time ago with plans to turn it into a muff (obviously that never panned out). Then recently I thought, maybe this leather jacket could use a little fur trim, and sewed the caplet right onto the shoulders of the jacket and PRESTO! Insta-Fendi! Or something vaguely resembling a Fendi style jacket. I think Karl would approve, despite his very odd penchant for faux fur these days. (Worst collection, ever. Dear Karl, what was he thinking).
And here is an outfit to go with my fabulous new jacket, I felt a bit Amelia Earhart, probably because my pants could be from the 40s, and the leather jacket felt like a pilot’s coat from the 40s. Now I just need a leather cap and some goggle-tastic flying glasses.
{Wearing: DIY Zara bomber w/ vintage fur, white Sirens T, DIY navy wool trousers, (these were made at fashion school years back) and white leather Zara flats. And of course my rose-gold Fossil watch.}
LOOKING FOR A HIP AND STYLISH EVENT TO ATTEND THAT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THOSE WINTER GAMES? Look no further!
VancouverisAwesome.com and Shine Nightclub present “An Awesome Showcase” of local Vancouver talent. A little excerpt from the organizers:
The three part visual arts show will feature Vancouver’s top established and up-and-coming artists, photographers and designers throughout the entire two weeks of the winter games.
Running from February 12 – 28, the show will be viewable to the public throughout the daytime and will offer visual displays for the night scene as well. When taking in the art works, daytime guests are also invited to slip into Shine’s cocktail lounge to relax and sip on tasty libations.
Each day for the duration of the showcase, Vancouver Is Awesome will be blogging live from the venue, giving the public up-to-date information on the event’s happenings and sharing favourite Vancouver stories from the people who visit the exhibit.
Tuesday evening was the launch party of this fabulous event, which was put together in part by DelaCruz PR firm. The launch party was a gathering of Vancouver’s most artsy, from photographers, graphic designers and artists to bloggers, public relations people and various other reporters.
The curator of An Awesome Showcase, Randy Laybourne and I. (I’m wearing: Bebe mesh and sequin top, Zara leather jacket, black ripped Sirens jeans and rose-gold Fossil watch).
I can’t think of a better venue for an exhibition like this, the art was displayed so effectively against the lit-up walls.
Four of the featured artists.
Kelly Litzenberger, photographer and Editor/Art Director at Concrete Skateboarding Magazine with one of his pieces.
When I asked Kelly what his reasoning was for placing two panoramic images together, Kelly replied simply, “I don’t have a deep reason for doing this, I just thought they looked good together.” To me, this is art at its best. I’m not one for drawn out lengthy and philosophical meanings behind art. It’s either aesthetically pleasing to you, or it isn’t. And Kelly’s piece is! (Two panoramic images of the pond and path near it at Granville Island, taken from above on the Burrard St. Bridge).
Left: Another piece of panoramic photography by Kelly Litzenberger
The vibe in Shine was amazing, low lighting and lots of great people to meet, not to mention very visually stimulating, (I’m talking about the art. Although, for all the single ladies out there, this type of event was a prime spot for mingling).
STYLE at An Awesome Showcase:
Vancouver entreprenuer and Lily & Jae designer Jude Feller. It was a pleasure to meet this woman. Jude, Niki, (Blasina, of A Haute Mess) and I engaged in a very interesting discussion about Vancouver’s fashion industry, not only are these events fun, but also insightful.
I have one word to describe photographer Christine McAvoy: adorable. And sweet, so maybe two words. Here Christine stands with one of her photographs. Christine will be blogging daily from the exhibit at Shine for the duration of the show, Feb.12-28. Check out here work here!
Fabulous PR woman, Melania Dela Cruz of Dela Cruz PR.
Stylish Bloggerina, Niki Blasina of A Haute Mess. I had the pleasure of spending a good part of my evening viewing the exhibit with Niki, the girl is smart and will definitely go far in her chosen career of PR.
And just a little reminder, this exhibit is running from February 12-28 at Shine Nightclub! Enjoy!
XO StyleStruck
Well, that day of all things mushy, red and lacy is almost upon us. Have you made your Valentines plans yet?? If not, I have some Valentines Day suggestions!
Because February 14th is one of those days on which most people strive to impress, here is a list of 5 of my top romantic spots that will be worth the $$$ spent:
1. Cioppino’s in Yaletown – 1133 Hamilton St. 604 688 7466 $$$
Cioppino’s is a classic Italian and Mediterranean restaurant situated along the cobble-stone like brick sidewalk, (girls in stilettos beware!!) of Yaletown. If you plan to eat here, I recommend requesting a table in the Enoteca room. The main room of the restaurant is lovely, but this back room is beautifully lit with candles at night and is very romantic. Lining the walls of the room are the restaurant’s supply of wine which adds to the Italian charm of Cioppino’s. Highly recommended.
2. Bacchus at the Wedgewood Hotel – 845 Hornby St. 604 689 7777 $$$
I have never seen as decadent an interior as the one in Bacchus. Many of the seats are done in plush velvet and there are huge flower arrangements surrounding the tables. The environment is decidedly luxurious, with a bit of an old world feeling. I have only been to Bacchus for brunch and for drinks so I’m not able to comment on the food, but I have only heard great things! Note to guys: this place will most definitely impress any lady!
3. Yew at The Four Seasons – 791 W. Georgia 604 689 9333 $$$
If you’re looking for a restaurant that is contemporary yet warm, Yew is the right place for you. The interior is gorgeous with a lofty 12 ft ceiling, rich wood panelling and a floor-to-ceiling sandstone fireplace. The menu features items from “the Pacific region,” as they say on their website. I have never had a bad dining experience at Yew. Sometime last year I enjoyed a dessert for two that was something like a sundae in a huge martini glass, now I’m not sure if they still serve this, but if they do, indulge and let me know so I can say “I told you so!” Note to girls: On Fridays Yew hosts “Dive Fridays” from 2:30-10:00pm when ladies wearing pink are entitled to a free appy!
4. Bridges on Granville Island – 604 687 4400 $$$
I’ve never seen a view like I have from the upstairs patio at Bridges. It was a warm summer evening when I was there, but even in the winter with the sun setting the Burrard Inlet is nothing short of gorgeous. Bridges is the House of Switzerland during the Olympic games and so for the two weeks there is a separate Swiss menu to choose from for both day and night. One item in particular from the day menu caught my eye; Macaroni with ham, potatoes, onions and cream with a side of apple sauce, ($17). Talk about comfort food! And for dessert, Swiss carrot cake! Why not make this a destination dinner with a walk along English Bay’s seawall and then a boat ride over to Granville Island? (Boarding is just under the Aquatic Centre at the end of the sea wall when walking east). Two can ride the cute little boats for $5. Adorable.
5. Sandbar on Granville Island – 1535 Johnston St. 604 669 9030 $$
Another fabulous date spot! Sandbar has a very cozy atmosphere with excellent staff who are ready to recommend a brilliant wine to pair with your fish, steak or pasta. The year-round patio is heated and has a lovely view of the water, very romantic! Sandbar is an excellent choice if you are looking for seafood. Ask the server what their feature dish is, each night the restaurant will prepare a list of meals only available for the evening prepared fresh that day!
AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO TIP YOUR SERVER. No one likes a stingy date. It’s just as bad, or worse than a date with bad breath. On that note, carry extra mints. Here to help. ; )
Also, obvious, but worth mentioning, CALL AHEAD FOR RESERVATIONS!
And now for some pictures:
This is me in all my casual-Valentines-Day-inspired-outfit-glory. 2nd pic from bottom: Trying to get the shot, I fell -whoosh!- backwards. I try so hard for you readers. Wearing: Lips printed top from the Patricia Field shop in NYC, Zara jeans and Miu Miu pumps with rose-gold rolex, just kidding! Rose gold Fossil watch.
HAVE A LOVELY VALENTINES DAY!!
XO StyleStruck
