Fira&Capa

Nivea Haus

2011-07-21T16:00:00.001-04:00

Come have some fun at the Nivea Haus "pop-up" centre on Queen West!

In celebration of NIVEA’s 100 year anniversary, consumers are invited to enjoy a world-class skincare experience at the NIVEA Haus:

•Take an interactive skin test to learn about your skin type and receive a personalized skincare regimen
•Strike a pose and have your photo taken in a retro-style photo shoot
•Receive a complimentary 5x7 photo, NIVEA product samples, promotional offers and more

Until April 5th, 2012
Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m
361 Queen Street West (Queen and Peter)

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Fiber Living Opening

2011-07-21T09:10:00.000-04:00

The Store

King Street East has added yet another upscale furniture store to its line-up. On Thursday, July 14th, Fiber Living held its opening in the King East/Berkeley Street space that doubles-up as a private event venue available for rent.

The store carries a wide variety of high-end indoor and outdoor furniture, displayed in a spacious, loft-style space. The guests were treated to an open bar and catered apps by Marc Thuet – think salmon sliders, foie gras macarons, and dashing young waiters flirting outrageously with female guests.

We are looking forward to attending many excellent parties at Fiber Living – their cool space-for-hire potential is sky-high, given their prime location and casual yet hip vibe. As to the furniture, blogging doesn’t pay well enough for us to afford any of it… yet…

F.

The space

Pulp Magazine Launch

2011-07-19T16:00:00.001-04:00

Pulp Magazine

It’s been almost two weeks since Pulp magazine launched its first print issue and Toronto media outlets are still all over it! Articles about Pulp’s models and photo shoots keep popping up all over the web and the reviews are almost always great. The magazine begun as a web and mobile-based publication, but just after two issues proved itself worthy of being printed and treasured by fashion lovers across Canada. And yes, it is good enough to be a coffee table book!

The launch party was held at the Engine Gallery in the Distillery District and the attending crowd was an electric mix of industry people, bloggers, and friends and family of the magazine’s creators. It was inspiring to see models, photographers, and writers mingling together in the great, airy gallery space. Blown-up pictures of the Pulp’s editorials were admired by all, and the catered appetizers and an open bar were very well received.

As the magazine’s web site states: “Pulp tells stories through images and pushes the status quo”. It is like no other print magazine on the market. It focuses on visual experiences and talks to the reader through pictures and emotions, not through words. It targets primarily industry insiders and fashion enthusiasts and is already supported by a number of internationally-renowned brands like Balmain, Celine, and Prada.

Now you can look forward to Pulp’s 4th issue!

F.

My Luxe Box

2011-07-19T09:00:00.000-04:00

It’s been a little while since I’ve written an article for you. I apologise, my dear readers, Fira and Capa have been too busy enjoying their summer. But don’t worry, we are back on track now and have a whole bunch of fun posts coming up this week!

I’ve been dying to share with you my latest obsession, of which, as you know, I have quite a few): Luxe Box from Loose Button! For $12/month (the annual subscription is $120, so you get 2 months free!) you get a beautiful gift box packed to the brim with deluxe samples, delivered to your door. Even better, some of the products come in full size! Loose Button works with brands like Clinique, Dermalogica, Shu Uemura, MAC, and many more. There is a rumor that we will be able to get discounted products which have been featured in the Luxe Box on their site!

So, last week my first LB arrived! I was so excited and couldn’t wait to open it; it was like getting an unexpected mystery gift from a secret admirer who loved beauty as much as I do!

My little treasure box didn’t fail me! It came with a pretty bow, a mountain of tissue paper, and a personalized card! I also loved the “content inventory sheet” – it helped me get familiar with the products so much faster! Here is what I got:

A full-size Essie nail polish

I am not sure if everyone got the same color this month, but mine #727, In Stitches. It’s a beautiful intense rose with a touch of ochre. It will be perfect come September with its intense colors and romantic-melancholic mood. By the way, please check out Essie’s website – I can’t get over how yummy the animation looks!

Trucco full-size pro-lip pencil

I just realized that the pencil, which came in Cinnamon Stick, would match the Essie nail polish perfectly! Too bad I am not a lip liner type of gal, but my good friend Ruzanna will like it for sure.

Proclaim Argan Oil Hair Treatment

I have to admit, this was my favorite product out of the lot! I love everything that helps my hair look beautiful and healthy, and this treatment does all that, plus smells so good I am ready to eat it! I’ve used it twice so far, once on damp and once on dry hair. The result was amazing both times – no fly-aways or visible hair damage, and the hair looked like it was deep-conditioned just minutes ago. Better yet, this product is only about $7 for a 90 ml bottle, so I think I will be getting it soon!

Stella in Two Peony by Stella McCartney

This was the last product in my Luxe Box, and I was very glad to see - and smell -- it. I love fragrance and can’t imagine my life without new olfactory experiences. This perfume is sweet and intense, reminding me of summer nights, somewhere on a tropical island when the flowers are in full bloom. I am not sure if I could wear it every day, but I would definitely use it when on vacation.

Last, but not least, please be sure to update your profile after ordering the Luxe Box. This will help the wonderful folks at Loose Button to put together the best samples that you will love and enjoy using!

F.

June 2011 Luxe Box

Philip Sparks Summer Sale

2011-07-18T14:19:00.001-04:00

Philip Sparks is having a sale! The city dweller's go-to label is discounted up to 50%. Here are Fira's picks from the Women's collection!

Yellow Plaid Dress, $2212.50, 50% off. Beautiful cotton/linen blend. The added bonus - it's made in Canada!

High Waisted Bleached Denim, $97.50, 50% off! This season's MUST HAVE!

Skinny Buffalo Belt, $55, 50% off. My go-to summer accessory!

Vogue Italia June 2011

2011-07-06T16:03:00.000-04:00

I am absolutely crazy about Vogue Italia June 2011 cover. Thanks to The Sartorialist for sharing this!

F.

Come for Wine to 9 Church St.

2011-07-03T14:56:00.000-04:00

choose from 200 wines! one of the best selections in town.

A few week ago I took my mom and her friend for a light dinner and wine to The Wine Bar on Church st. The ever-changing tapas menu was good for an unpretentious late afternoon meal, but the wine list was a real hit! Over 200 wines are available to meet every demand and budget!

Take a look at the pics after the jump and come for a glass...or two... or three...

F.

I want all this in my kitchen! Love!

Meet Pippa

2011-06-29T11:18:00.000-04:00

Meet Pippa

Last year we were delighted to meet the Pink Martini team and write about them! The trendy affordable line is just perfect for the city girls like us!

This season PM has something new and exiting going on! Meet Pippa, Pink Martini's new paper doll. Pippa was inspired by Pippa Middleton, the gorgeous royal sister.

Designed by a celebrated fashion illustrator Danielle Meder of FinalFashion.ca, Pippa will be in stores and in PM's Fall '11 look book!

Take a few moments to visit Pink Martini's site and browse their current collection! I am absolutely in love with the Soho top! It would be so perfect for the office on a hot Summer day!

Have Fun!

Pippa's Fall outfits

I Got...

2011-06-20T11:53:00.000-04:00

Joe's Jeans black leather sandals, Reg. $145, 50% off

I can't wait for these sandals to come in! ShopBop ships for free in North America!

F.

O&B Canteen

2011-06-06T22:01:00.000-04:00

Meet my latest casual dining crush – the O&B Canteen at the Bell Lightbox. Not only the location is near-perfect, but the food holds up to the highest Oliver & Bonacini standards.

The Canteen is relatively inexpensive compared to the other O&B restaurants and the usual suspects in the King West line-up. A light dinner for two, with wine, will leave you satisfied and will only cost you around $60. The menu is a whimsical whirlwind of French, Italian, and traditional diner foods. It is a little confusing at first, but the once you familiarize yourself with the choices, there is something to satisfy almost any craving, be it mac and cheese or mussels. The wine list is somewhat limited, but affordable. The drinks are served in no-nonsense stemless glasses, quintessential in creating the relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere that makes you want to linger after your meal is finished. The service is friendly and honest the type which deserves great tips and a sincere ’thank you’ once dinner is over.

There are a few items on the menu that deserve special mention. The Chicken Liver Parfait ($8) is lighter than most traditional liver dishes. It is feathery, lightweight yet creamy and served with a baguette and cornichons on a wooden board. The dish was beautifully arranged with flower petals and a little dish of Cumberland sauce.

The French Canadian Onion soup ($7) came in a tiny casserole with melted Gruyère pouring over the sides. The serving was smaller than the usual bowl and left enough room for the crisp and tangy Tomato Watermelon salad ($8), served with crumbled feta cheese and mint. The unusual combination won over my heart and taste buds and the salad will be a staple light meal this summer.

Just before we were done, the Canteens’ executive chef Jason Bangerter offered us the restaurant’s signature desert – a Root Beer Float with vanilla ice cream ($7). It looked delicious, served in a wine glass garnished with a fresh flower, but I was just too full to truly appreciate this diner staple.

Between its great location, price, and menu the Canteen is right up there with the best downtown Toronto can offer. Great for lunch, weekday dinner, or a weekend get together with friends!

Enjoy!

F.

Stratford Shakespeare Festival 2011 season

2011-05-30T12:38:00.000-04:00

Last summer Fira and I had an amazing experience going to Stratford to see The Tempest with Christopher Plummer as part of the Stratford Shakspeare Festival.

The town is couple of hours from Toronto, has a variety of restaurants and little boutiques to help you enhance your "theatrical" experience before or after the play.

You can read Fira's review of The Tempest from last year, that, hopefully, conveys that Stratford Festival truly is a world-class theater event.

The season runs from April till October.
The List of Plays includes, besides Shakespeare's Twelfth Nights and Richard III, more modern classics such as Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath and Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar.

As a part of my grade 12 English summer course, we were taken to see Hamlet "live" at one of the theaters in Stratford. It was an amazing trip. Since then, for many years, Stratford is a part of my summer theater experience.

Check out the website for more info on Stratford Shakespeare Festival.

k.

The Grapes of Wrath

Richard III by Shakespeare

I want...

2011-05-30T10:42:00.000-04:00

Interesting form, great accent colours and all leather even the inside. And, only $90! I WANT!... by ALDO.

On the note of shoe shopping, here is a pair of oxfords I always liked. Comes in brown, black and lighter brown. Now it's on sale for $39.98. by ALDO

Where to go...

2011-05-27T14:11:00.002-04:00

- Doors Open Toronto, May 28-29
is a great way to learn more about the city by exploring it's famous and not so famous architecture. The list of places to see is long and very exciting. Keep in mind that there might be line ups to some places, so do your research and come in advance.
I like the suggestions from blogto.com

- Toronto Clothing Show, May 27-29
At the show you can shop from more than 300 booths from the Local Canadian Designer, Streetwear, Vintage and Sample Sales Sections and find a vast selection to suit anyone's taste.
CNE, $10 at the door

...Coming up

Open Roof Festival June 16 - Sep 1
at the Amsterdam Brewery. Great movies and music outdoors.
Opening with Exit Through the Giftshop. Great and fun documentary about street art.

k.

Capa got...

2011-05-27T13:00:00.001-04:00

I got a small leather cross-body purse. Only $22.49 at Little Burgundy.

k.

Sale on Handbags at Little Burgundy only till May 30

2011-05-27T11:14:00.002-04:00

Click here to go to Little Burgundy website

I Got...

2011-05-25T12:54:00.000-04:00

BCBG shorts, CAD $91 on sale

It was hard to convince my boyfriend that I absolutely need $100 pair of shorts, but he caved in after all... These shorts are great for a stroll in the downtown or even for a casual Friday in the office. They will look great with the season's hottest wedge sandals.

F.

Found! The Perfect Maxi

2011-05-17T12:00:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth and James
Riley Skirt
$165

All my latest obsessions came together in this perfect crepe maxi skirt. I was looking for a maxi for the past two months. I couldn't find any that were both great quality, cut, and color.

I found this skirt on ShopBop.com. It is by one of my new fave brands - Textile Elizabeth and James. It's made out of heavy crepe with lining and has a draw string for extra comfort. Unconditional Love!

F.

Crazy for Shorts

2011-05-16T13:48:00.001-04:00

Elizabeth and James

Jacques Shorts

$295

By Malene Birger

Doina Soft Shorts

$295

These two pairs of shorts are office and downtown-appropriate. I especially love the Elizabeth and James pair that can be dressed up or down with a simple change of shoes. By Malene Birger shorts come in perfect blush color.

F.

Reia Studio Sample Sale

2011-05-12T09:45:00.000-04:00

It's this time of the year again! Reia Studio is having it's semi-annual Spring-Summer Sale!
Make sure to free up some time on May 18 and 19 between 8:30a.m. and 8p.m. and get your credit cards ready!

Oh, and remember that Reia Studio is now located at 63 Wingold Avenue, Suite 200A, 2nd floor.

Follow us on Twitter and find out how to get a VIP pass for a sale preview on May 17!

F.

Recording Arts Canada – Best-in-Class Digital Arts Education

2011-05-11T14:03:00.001-04:00

I’ve always admired people who follow their dreams. Whether they are passionate about photography, dance, or music - such adventurous souls evoke respect and awe for their dedication, persistence, and hard work. There is nothing more courageous then following your heart into the vast and sometimes treacherous world of art!

A few weeks ago I was honored with an invitation to Recording Arts Canada’s (RAC) career day. RAC is one of the most established and recognized digital arts schools in the country. It is inhabited by the aforementioned individuals attracted to the digital arts and the creative opportunities which the cutting-age technology at the RAC has to offer. Both teachers and students alike think that in this day and age their field is the most promising and lucrative with diverse applications across many industries.

RAC was founded in 1984 and has two established campuses in Montreal and Toronto. Their larger Toronto campus is located in the former Technicolor studio in the heart of downtown and boasts an outstanding set of post-production and audio equipment that is fully available for student use. In fact, RAC prides itself with its hands-on, tactile approach to learning and the real-life experience it offers to its graduates. The 1:1 student-work station ratio allows each one of the pupils to be fully exposed to their comprehensive training in the latest sound and gaming technologies by rotating between the different studios. Smaller class sizes ensure that students get individual attention and one-on-one time with their professors, as well as an opportunity for discussions and open forums.

RAC has three faculties: Sound and Music Recording, Digital Media, and Game Design. Each program is crammed with active industry professionals who deliver hyper relevant content in the form of lectures and one-on-one consultations available for students that require a little extra attention or others with in-depth questions. Newly acquired knowledge and techniques are then used in lab work, and often in order to complete assignments and projects. Therefore, attendance and testing are critical components of the fast-paced, 11-month long programs that provide top-class training that can be applied anywhere from home studios to multi-million dollar production companies.

In addition to its seasoned professors, RAC boasts plenty of teaching assistants who facilitate the lab work and help students with various elements of the learning process. They also serve as a bridge between the professors and students, often acting as mediators and helping students with even the most sensitive issues. The majority of TAs are RAC graduates with a proven track record of outstanding academic achievements. Ryan and Joe, two of the lab assistants, both with extensive industry experience, prepared an outstanding audio presentation that showcased the capabilities of the college’s main mixing console. The same console was used in the sound production for The Matrix Reloaded. I later discovered that one of the albums that Ryan worked on was nominated for the Juno awards!

The student body at the RAC is as diverse as its faculty. Successful music artists that have been in the industry for years, gaming enthusiasts, talented high-school grads who are ardent over-achievers are just a few examples of the kind of people you can meet in the lecture halls. The one thing that they all share is a desire to get the best-in-class education which will be recognized internationally. Even though RAC is a private school, it is accredited by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities in Ontario (MTCU) and its corresponding body in Québec. Its students are eligible to receive government financial assistance and the credits earned at RAC are transferable towards post-secondary programs in other schools.

Whether you are into gaming or dream about running your own recording studio one day, RAC is the best place to jump-start your career. You will receive in-depth training tempered by industry knowledge, meet people from across the country, and gain invaluable experience working with world-class, modern equipment. In just eleven short months, you will be that much closer to your dream!

Here are some ways to connect with the RAC

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube Channel

all images courtesy of RAC

Contact Photo Festival is here until May 31

2011-05-11T11:50:00.001-04:00

Voegelin Lindsay DejaVu #3

It's finally spring and our favourite Contact Photography Festival is here again for the whole month of May.
There is so much to see and do that it could become frustrating. The website and phone apps are a great way to start. You can also start with visiting Primary Exhibitions at major establishments like ROM or UofT.
I personally prefer smaller galleries and venues.
My friend photographer Elena Malkova is part of the festival this year with her series "20-30" in the exhibit In Broad Terms at Steam Whistle Brewing. Worth checking out!

k.

Heel Condoms

2011-05-02T15:01:00.001-04:00

My friend Igor send me this link saying it might be useful for the blog. I fell in love with Heel Condoms and it was love from first sight! For about $30, give or take, you can dress up your favorite take-me-anywhere pump to match any outfit! Visit their site for more details and for some gorgeous pictures to inspire you!

F.

Sale Alert - Up to 80% Off - Joeffer Caoc Studio Spring Sale

2011-04-28T10:44:00.000-04:00

388 Carlaw Ave (south of Gerrard St)
Suite 300B (3rd Floor)
Toronto, ON
info (416) 504-6232

Wed Apr 27 2-6pm
Thu & Fri Apr 28/29 12-7pm
Sat Apr 30 12-5pm

Joeffer Caoc.com

F.

Drake Spring Market - This Weekend!

2011-04-27T14:31:00.000-04:00

LGFW 2011 - Pink Tartan

2011-04-27T13:38:00.000-04:00

Images: kkopanygin

It probably sounds unbelievably cheesy, but the Mimran Empire strikes back! Kimberley Newport-Mimran created a collection that I consider her best yet. Sophisticated military chic and confident designs are ideal for the contemporary power woman.

I was also impressed with the absence of the usual pinks and fuascias that, frankly, are not my favorite colors - muted neutrals and army greens appeal to me much, much more. I can’t wait for the pleated a-line skirts and tailored blazers. Most of all, I am craving the gorgeous white feather skirt for all the soirées this fall.

F.

All images: kkopanygin