Solo Lisa

Springing into Summer with Joe Fresh

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Fri, 25 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

I don't know what made me more cheerful last week when I stopped by Joe Fresh for their spring/summer 2012 media preview, the sunny Wednesday morning or the bright blues, oranges, and yellows that greeted me inside the Granville St. store. The sun has since retreated and been replaced by rain and chillier temperatures, but never mind that--summer has officially landed at Joe Fresh. Here's a little peek at what you can find in store right now.

Mix-and-match bathing suit separates for days spent on the beach or your next vacation--with coordinating accessories, naturally.

Black and white never go out of style.

As always, Joe Fresh nail polish shades are on trend and easy on the wallet.

Nautical-inspired pieces are perennial crowd-pleasers.

Neoprene, squared-off white sequins, and a pop of orange give classic outerwear silhouettes a (Joe) Fresh spin.

Despite a reluctance to shop (I need to conserve funds for furniture), I couldn't resist trying on a few things and ended up going home with two of the items pictured here. Try to guess which ones.

A perusal of their lookbook after I got home yielded even more covetable and affordable finds. My favourites were the nautical-inspired "classic with a twist" items and I love the look of the orange and taupe sleeveless silk blouse. I guess this means I'll have to stop by Joe Fresh again sooner rather than later!

Product Review: Mary Kay Botanical Effects Skincare

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Thu, 24 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

With green and organic skincare becoming more popular than ever, it seemed only a matter of time before Mary Kay ventured into this category with their own offering. Mary Kay Botanical Effects launched earlier this year, promising gentle, effective products tailored for each skin type (dry, normal, and oily). The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas are supposed to be ideal for sensitive skin and younger women who aren't concerned about visible signs of aging yet. They also contain botanical extracts like milk thistle and luo han guo.

After taking a quiz that determined I was skin type 2 (normal), Mary Kay sent me the entire Botanical Effects line in the type 2 formulas to try and review. I've been using the products for the last couple of weeks and found them to be hit-and-miss:

The Cleanse Formula 2 ($17) was as gentle, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic as promised, although its consistency felt a lot like Cetaphil--disappointing considering that this cleanser costs considerably more than the drugstore alternative.
Likewise, the Hydrate Formula 2 ($20) is barely distinguishable from Cetaphil's lotion. While it moisturized effectively and didn't aggravate my skin, I didn't see enough of a difference between this botanical-infused formulation and the inexpensive Cetaphil lotion to justify paying more for the benefits.
The Mask Formula 2 ($18) was probably my least favourite product in this line. The granules felt jagged and harsh when I tried to use the mask as an exfoliating scrub as per the instructions.
The Freshen Formula 2 ($17) is supposed to refresh your face mid-day and get rid of oil and shine, but it dried to a sticky finish which didn't feel fresh at all.

Overall, the products disappointed me. What's more, the marketing strategy for this line is just odd. It seems more like hypoallergenic skincare for sensitive types despite the green-sounding name "Botanical Effects." Everything from the sterile white packaging to the equally sterile-feeling formulas seems so much more clinical than luxe organic skincare should be. I say save your money and opt for the cheaper drugstore stuff, or save your pennies and splurge on organic.

Product Review: Lash Love

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Tue, 22 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

When it comes to a simple summer beauty routine, lashes, lips, groomed brows, and healthy skin go a long way. I've talked extensively about lipstick on this blog before, and the SPF products I reviewed last year are still great options for protecting your complexion. Today, then, will be all about lashes.

Give your lashes (and brows) a boost by throwing an eyelash fortifying treatment into the mix. The B. Kamins Eyelash Fortifier ($99 at Spa Boutique) uses a formula full of peptides, plant extracts, and multivitamins to nourish lashes and brows, boost micro-circulation at the hair follicle, and plump up each individual hair. Although $99 seems steep for only 4ml, the unique rubber applicator dispenses only a pinhead's worth of product at a time and applies it precisely where needed, so the pen will last a long time. I've been using it for the past couple of weeks and am pretty pleased with the results. My brows seem fuller (fewer of the sparse spots that Asian brows are prone to) and my lashes look longer and thicker sans mascara. The product does tingle a little when applied, so try not to get any in your eye.

If you have a special occasion and can't wait 4-8 weeks for a fortifying treatment to take effect, Noir Lash Lounge's new line of faux lashes ($11.99 per set) might be just the thing. Because I favour a more natural look, I like the Hidden Lashettes (top), individual lashes that can be trimmed and applied to the outer corners of the eyes for a flirty look. The 'Lashionista' (centre) set would look pretty if one were attending a wedding, while the 'Flirty Little Secret' (bottom) would work well for a glamorous event. Unlike other lash brands I've tried, Noir's has a thinner-than-average rubber strip, which means they blend in more easily and look more natural. If you have shaky hands and can't trust yourself to apply your own faux lashes, stop by one of Noir's locations and let their pros do it for you: $20 includes application and a set of lashes to call your own.

Today's Outfit: Orange and Pleats

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 21 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Banana Republic cardigan and flats
H&M tee
Zara skirt
Ray-Ban wayfarers
Roots bag

With all the talk of wardrobe remixing and shopping-induced debt in the world of fashion and style blogs, you'd think that wearing the same outfit twice is some sort of blogger taboo. Well, I'll confess something: I wear the same outfit more than twice. In fact, when I find a combination that really works, I'll wear it many, many times gladly and feel secure knowing that if my creativity fails me, I can always count on a tried-and-true ensemble to look good in a hurry. This outfit is definitely one of them. Since these photos were taken, I've worn the same pieces all together at least twice, probably more.

I hope my Canadian readers are having a lovely Victoria Day long weekend! You know what long weekends are good for? Leisurely flipping through magazines like the June issue of FLARE.

Cassie Dee Fall/Winter 2012 Presentation

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Fri, 18 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

After interviewing designer Cassie Dee about her spring/summer 2012 collection, I was eager to see what she had in store for the next season. Her fall/winter 2012 presentation (held at the ARC Gallery in East Van) drew its inspiration from an unlikely source: Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet and the oft-forgotten character of Rosaline, Romeo's first love. Dee was intrigued by the idea of Rosaline thriving long after the tragic lovers passed away, and envisioned her as a strong, intelligent woman who boldly made her way through life.

Rosaline's character, as imagined by Dee, translated into a collection that's definitely not for wallflowers. Drawing on a Mondrian-esque colour palette of black, white, and primary colours, the dresses, outerwear, and separates contrasted structured tailoring with fluid draping and movement. The effect was bold and architectural, but with a touch of feminine softness.

Wear Else Spring/Summer 2012 Fashion Show

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Fri, 18 May 2012 03:56:00 +0000

While The Real Housewives of Vancouver were probably getting their drama on for reality television, some of Vancouver's other well-to-do ladies of leisure joined Wear Else at their Park Royal location for a spring/summer 2012 fashion show several weeks ago. The store's devoted clientele staked out front-row seats next to the purple runway by leaving their designer handbags behind as they mingled, sipped champagne and enjoyed canapés.

Hosted by president Zahra Mamdani, the event was a showcase of the latest offerings available from the Vancouver-based retailer. Pieces from the likes of Alice + Olivia, Missoni, Pink Tartan, and Catherine Malandrino were featured alongside local labels like Jacqueline Conoir and Jason Matlo.

The big trend for this season? Colour, colour, colour. Whether in the form of a jewel-toned dress or a brightly patterned tunic top, this is clearly the time to add something vibrant to our closets full of neutrals. Although some of the looks were intended for more mature tastes, there were quite a few cute pieces that could integrate easily into the average twentysomething's wardrobe.

Visit Wear Else at their Park Royal, Oakridge, or West 4th locations or shop online.

Hats Off to Summer

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Wed, 16 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

La Vie En Rose trilby hat (c/o), Madewell dress, Joe Fresh bangles, Zoya nail polish in 'Bevin' and 'Carey' (c/o Spa Boutique)

With all the lovely sunny weather Vancouver has been enjoying lately, I finally had a chance to wear this floral trilby hat that the generous folks at La Vie En Rose sent. Who knew they had a small but decent selection of hats and beach accessories aside from their lingerie and swimwear? Definitely going to have to take a closer look the next time I'm shopping.

Sometimes it's easy to lose sight of how joyful summer is. Goodness knows I've been an anxiety-ridden basket case lately with work and homebuying stuff. And even though I took the week off blogging last week, my email didn't. "Breathe, relax, take it one day at a time" has become my new mantra. Maybe with enough repetition, the anxiety will fade. After all, life's a beach, right? Right.

Mary Katrantzou at The Room

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Tue, 15 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

It takes a rare talent to produce prints that are equal parts unexpected, cerebral, and just plain fun. But that's exactly what Mary Katrantzou has become known for and manages to do season after season. Last week, The Room at The Hudson's Bay Company in Vancouver was lucky enough to play host to the talented London-based designer and offer clients, fashion lovers, and media a preview of Katrantzou's fall 2012 ready-to-wear collection.

Abstract and bold from far away, yet filled with dizzying detail up close, Katrantzou's work is truly a sight to behold. The collection's leitmotif: everyday objects re-imagined and re-examined. The result: a typewriter that becomes a long-sleeved frock with an undulating peplum, a maximalist green print on a coat with minimalist lines, curved pencils adorning a, ahem, pencil-skirted dress (rumoured to be $80,000 and available by special order only).

It was a privilege and genuine delight to meet Katrantzou herself and see her work in person. Thanks to The Bay for the opportunity!

Published in FLARE

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Tue, 15 May 2012 01:14:00 +0000

I'm marking my return to blogging after last week's hiatus with an exciting announcement: I have an article published in the June 2012 issue of FLARE magazine! (On page 136, to be exact.) If you want to flip around and read others before you get to it though, I don't blame you. The issue is filled with fun features like a stylish guide to London by Rebecca Tay, and an exclusive on Chanel's little black jacket and Karl Lagerfeld by Mosha Lundstrom Halbert.

Unlike my last article (which was all about my mother), this one deals with social media and what can happen in online spaces when friendships sour offline. Not a pleasant experience perhaps, but a very universal one as I discovered while writing this story. Major thanks to editor-in-chief Lisa Tant for this fantastic opportunity, former managing editor Catalina Margulis for her thoughtful editorial suggestions, and current managing editor Maureen Halushak for ensuring the article went to press without a hitch. Oh, and another round of thanks to the experts and subjects who graciously consented to do an interview.

It's on news stands now, so pick up a copy today. Enjoy!

Lise Watier Age Control Supreme Winner

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 14 May 2012 04:29:00 +0000

Thanks to everyone who entered my Lise Watier Age Control Supreme giveaway by dishing on your plans for Mothers' Day. I hope your plans went splendidly and the day was even better than anticipated. The winner is...

Kim D.

Congratulations! I'll be sending you an email shortly.

On Hiatus This Week

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 07 May 2012 19:37:00 +0000

The boy and I during an afternoon of realtor appointments. Fun!

I've been tiptoeing toward my goal of buying a home for the past 5-6 years: saving up for the down payment, reading news about the market, looking at realtor listings and dreaming. Now it seems that all the tiptoeing has become a mad dash to the finish line. In the past few weeks, the boy and I have gone to open houses and realtor appointments and we ended up putting an accepted offer down on a lovely place. Hurray!

But anyone who's ever bought a home knows the stress doesn't end with an accepted offer. So I'm taking this week off blogging to handle everything on the homebuying front before our subject removal date. It's just too much to juggle, and quite frankly, my heart's not into blogging about summer sandals and nail polish when I'm preoccupied with something as big as this.

I'll return next week with new posts. In the meantime, wish me luck!

Flower of Tahiti Organic Hair Masque Winner

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 07 May 2012 19:19:00 +0000

The winner of the hair masque is...

Congratulations! I'll be sending you an email shortly with details on how you can claim your prize. Thanks to everyone else for entering.

P.S. If you're bummed about not winning, you can still enter my Lise Watier Age Control Supreme giveaway.

Q&A with Morgan Mallett of DESIGN + CONQUER

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Fri, 04 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Designer Morgan Mallett and her avant garde jewelry line DESIGN + CONQUER have been on a roll since I last interviewed her in 2009. Her bold graphic pieces have earned her well-deserved praise and attention from the likes of Denis Gagnon (who carried her designs in his namesake boutique at one point), luxury retailer The Volts, and the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal. I had a chance to catch up with Morgan shortly before she flew to Montreal to celebrate the launch of The Volts. Let the jewelry and sci-fi obsession chatter commence!

Since the last time we talked, your jewelry has landed in new boutiques and you've been feted with new honours. Can you tell Solo Lisa readers more about what you've been up to?
Yes! Lots has happened since we last connected. I’ve launched three other collections (Tron Expo and Electro), traveled to Toronto and Montréal to shoot collections and videos, showed at Toronto Fashion Week, and have experimented with rapid prototyping manufacturing processes.

I’ve collaborated with New Jersey electronica artist Teeel, and am currently working on a custom design for San Francisco electronica group Stripmall Architecture. I’ve also moved DC to my hometown of Vancouver, and just returned from a trip to Montréal, where I was selected as one of seven Canadian designers to participate in the launch of luxury retailer The Volts. I also had a recent custom design enquiry for a Lady Gaga shoot.

The 'Arcadia' cuff from the Electro collection

Congrats on having your jewelry carried at the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal. How did that come about?
Thank you! We were shooting the Electro collection in Montréal, and a friend mentioned that my designs would work well at the museum. I set up an appointment to show my designs at the museum boutique, and my work resonated incredibly well with the buyers. The boutique currently carries the largest selection of DC designs in Canada.

What are the inspirations behind your current collections Electro, Expo and Tron?
My current collection—Electro—is inspired by electronica music. Each piece in the collection is shaped by a specific electronica track, and there is a playlist for the collection on DC’s YouTube channel, and an iTunes playlist. The designs in this collection are made via a unique 3D printing process.

My Expo collection is inspired by the graphic design, architecture and textile designs from Montréal’s Expo ’67.

DC’s Tron collection is inspired by 1980s sci-fi movies, such as the Neverending Story and the original Tron film.

The 'Daze' earrings from the Electro collection

Tron (1982)

'Tron' earrings

Have you been experimenting with new materials or techniques? (In our last interview, I think DC was all about industrial tubing, acrylic polymers and reusable plastics.)
I really enjoy the experimental part of the design process—seeing how different materials behave, and what concepts are possible to execute. It truly is form of play. My current Electro collection is made via rapid prototyping plastics, and has enabled me to construct designs in three dimensions. My previous collections existed more in the 2D realm, as the materials were layered to create depth, versus printed in three dimensions.

There's always been a futuristic, sci-fi geek element to DC. Care to share some of your latest sci-fi/fantasy obsessions?
I’m currently loving the retrofuturistic imagery and music on musician/designer Scott Hansen’s blog ISO50 (http://blog.iso50.com/). His team often posts on technology—new and old—and offers up diverse electronica playlists. I’m a frequent visitor.

Also, my friend Stephanie Philips—a textile designer in Montréal—has turned me on to the technology involved in the creation of fabrics, and how incredibly creative yet simultaneously scientific that process can be. There is so much possibility when two seemingly different skillsets are used to problem-solve—that’s the main reason why I’m so passionate about collaborating across disciplines with DC.

And speaking of futuristic fantasy, have you seen/read The Hunger Games yet?
Yes! I’m almost through the first book, and saw the movie the other month. I’m typically not attracted to mainstream sci-fi, but the futuristic concepts that author Suzanne Collins explores are alarmingly possible in our current reality. I love how she addresses the cultural as well as the technological aspect of the world she creates. I was also intrigued with cinematographer Tom Stern’s uncomfortable close-ups in The Hunger Games movie: very effective in conveying the suspense and discomfort throughout the film.

Product Review: ILIA Multi-Stick

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Thu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 +0000

I've been a fan of ILIA since trying their tinted lip conditioners more than a year ago, so I was very intrigued to hear that founder Sasha Plavsic was coming out with a slew of new products. Same commitment to good quality colour pigments and organic ingredients, same attention to packaging and presentation, but new products that could be used on the face.

ILIA's new Multi-Stick ($34, available at Kiss & Makeup and BeautyMark) is one of those products, a versatile wunderkind that can be used on eyes, cheeks, and lips. The Multi-Stick in 'All that Jazz' is my first foray into a multi-purpose stick product and I love it. The product's flush pink hue looks great on my lips. It also provides some natural-looking colour on eyelids which, sadly, fades away quickly sans mattifying primer. My favourite way to wear the Multi-Stick is as a creme blush: the colour blends easily into cheekbones for a pretty flush that lasts all day. The product's chubby stick form--encased in ILIA's signature aluminum packaging--makes it a cinch to tote in my purse. A word to the wise though: Because the Multi-Stick dries to a powdery finish, it's not as moisturizing as ILIA's lip conditioners.

Lise Watier Age Control Supreme Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

My newest giveaway comes just in time for Mother's Day, although you don't have to be a mother to enter it. Skincare products always remind me of my mom because she takes her skincare regimen so seriously even though, in her view, it's too little too late. She's always taught me to take care of my skin first and worry about makeup second, a tenet I still follow to this day as I moisturize, cleanse, exfoliate, and apply sunscreen diligently.

For mothers, gorgeous gals with mature skin, and the skincare lovers out there, Lise Watier has launched their new Age Control Supreme line, just in time for the Canadian cosmetics company's 40th anniversary. The star ingredient behind the Crystal Day Elixir ($45), La Creme ($78), and Black Night Elixir ($45) is Labrador tea, a sub-arctic plant and powerful anti-oxidant whose healing and anti-inflammatory properties have been known to traditional aboriginal medicine for ages.

As the Lise Watier publicist explained when I stopped by the launch event, Labrador tea is 20 times more potent than other anti-oxidants on the market like vitamin C, vitamin E, and grape seed extract. Lise Watier spent five years commissioning research and perfecting the special extraction process that preserves Labrador tea at its most potent. (That would explain their wildly successful clinical trials in France.) The rich formulations in the Age Control Supreme line are ideally suited for women 40 and above.

Interested in trying Age Control Supreme (or if you're a younger reader, gifting it to a special woman in your life)? I have the entire line (combined value of $168) to give away to one lucky Solo Lisa reader. To enter, simply leave a comment on this post before Saturday May 12th, 12pm PST, telling me what your Mother's Day plans are; include your contact info (email or Twitter) as any entries without a means of contact will be disqualified. A winner will be chosen randomly. Good luck!

Lisa's Most Coveted List: Spring Beauty Edition

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Phew, I haven't published a Most Coveted list in a while! To reintroduce this blog feature, here's a list of my favourite beauty products for spring.

1. Anything from Consonant Body. Okay, so I'm cheating by including an entire skincare line as my first product. But ever since I first tried their products almost 1.5 years ago, I've been hooked. Their foaming face wash is tops. Their eye creams are great for day and night. I also love their organic soaps: so gentle and never drying. Ooh, and their organic hand lotion. (Clearly, narrowing it down to one product was difficult.) I recently stopped by BeautyMark to restock my Ultra Firming Eye Cream and Ultra Moisturizing Eye Cream ($36 each) and was pleasantly surprised by Consonant's new packaging. The old glass jars have been replaced by pump dispensers--definitely more hygienic than dipping your dirty fingers into the cream all the time.

2. A lipstick/gloss/balm hybrid like ILIA'S tinted lip conditioners ($24). When winter turns to spring, I dryclean and put away heavy wool garments, swap boots for ballet flats and canvas sneakers, and incorporate more colour into my outfits. I also tend to favour lighter lip colours like corals and pinks over saturated matte shades for everyday wear. A pigmented moisturizing formula delivers the best of both worlds by giving me a subtle hint of tint and doubling as a lip balm.

3. Spruce Body Lab Be Smooth Body Scrub ($23). Dry skin shouldn't be a source of anxiety once the winter layers come off and the summer dresses and sandals come out. This dreamy concoction of white sugar, sweet almond oil, blood orange, lavender, and vanilla is the same product that Spruce uses in their incredible exfoliating treatments. Even if you can't afford an afternoon at the spa, you can still pick up this cruelty-free made in Vancouver scrub for some affordable DIY exfolation at home.

4. Shu Uemura eyelash curler. When my cheapie eyelash curler bit the dust, I seized the opportunity to splurge on a Shu Uemura eyelash curler just to see if it lived up to the hype. Admittedly I wasn't very impressed at first, but that had more to do with my poor technique than the curler's design. Once I got used to it though, I found that it delivered an eye-opening but still very natural-looking curl.

5. Curel Advanced Ceramide Therapy Body Milk ($15, available at select London Drugs locations in Vancouver). Ceramides are lipid molecules that occur in healthy skin; the higher the number of ceramides, the softer and healthier your skin looks. Curel's new line of products--originally developed in Japan and now the top-selling sensitive skincare brand there--aims to restore the ceramide balance in sensitive, dry skin. The Body Milk arrived on my desk along with a bevy of other beauty goodies from Curel that I have yet to try. But so far I really like the Body Milk: it's unscented, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing, and it feels like a lotion from a luxe brand rather than a drugstore label.

Your turn! What are your must-have beauty products for spring?

P.S. And speaking of must-have beauty products, have you entered the Flower of Tahiti organic hair masque giveaway yet?

All That Glitters...

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

From left to right: CC Skye 'Love Me Knot' bangle set ($136.66), Charles Albert large titanium quartz cuff ($248.46), Fallon Jewelry 'Classique' bangle ($232.94), House of Harlow 1960 black triangle cuff ($72.47)

...is gold, gold, gold, especially when it comes to bracelets and bangles. Like every other blogger and Pinterest user, I'm warming up to the look of stacked bracelets. While others favour eclectic mixes of neon hues, friendship bracelets, and oversize watches, I love the look of two or three gold-toned bracelets worn together. Particularly if there are contrasting textural details like spikes, studs, and braids.

From left to right: Jules Smith 'Brooklyn' bangle set ($119.06), Orly Genger by Jaclyn Mayer 'Crosby' cast rope bracelet ($132.51), Tory Burch lock bracelet ($191.52), Tory Burch serpent stacking bangles ($201.88)

Is this a look that you're warming up to too? Which bracelet is your favourite?

Product Review: Flower of Tahiti Organic Hair Masque PLUS Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

For some of us (and I include myself here), dry winter hair seems like an unavoidable fact of life. We fight off the worst of the frizzies with deep conditioners and smoothing products. I've certainly tried my share, but the Flower of Tahiti Organic Hair Masque ($22, available at BeautyMark) is probably the first organic vegan formula I've used. Its main ingredient, Tahitian Monoi Oil, is a blend of coconut oils and Tahitian gardenia petals, and has been used by indigenous Polynesians as a skin and hair softener for the last 2,000 years. Flower of Tahiti's creator, Jennifer Pedraza, used a homemade Tahitian Monoi Oil hair masque on herself for many years before she was inspired to package and sell her concoction.

"It is so gentle, being organic and vegan, that anyone can use it really," explained Pedraza when I asked about who would benefit most from using Flower of Tahiti. While the much richer original formula is suitable for those with thick and/or curly hair, the new light formula is ideal for fine/oily-haired gals. How you use it is up to you and your needs. Use it daily as a rich conditioner; use it as an ultra-hydrating treatment by leaving it in for 30 minutes and then rinsing it off; apply it to your hair before swimming in the ocean or the pool to protect yourself from the drying effects of salt and chlorine.

I've been using my review sample as a deep-conditioning treatment and I approve. After washing my hair with 2-in-1 shampoo, I usually work a dollop of the hair masque into my hair and let it sit there while I continue with the rest of my shower, then rinse it off at the very end. Despite its super-moisturizing benefits, Flower of Tahiti is lightweight and non-greasy, and its coconut scent is pleasant without being overpowering. My hair feels soft and frizz-free at the end--no need for silicone-based smoothing products!

Interested in trying the Flower of Tahiti hair masque for yourself? Pedraza has generously offered a full-size masque to one lucky Solo Lisa reader. This giveaway is open to Canadian and US residents. Simply leave a comment on this post explaining what you do to combat dry hair by Friday May 4th, 12pm PST. All entries must have some means of contact (email or Twitter); any entries that do not have a means of contact will be disqualified. One winner will be chosen randomly. Good luck!

Eco Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2012: Prophetik

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

As always, the presentation for Tennessee-based designer Jeff Garner's Prophetik ended Eco Fashion Week on a high note, blending runway and music (in this case, a motley mix of baroque violin, minstrel song stylings, and live folk) into a fashion spectacle. Garner's trademark romanticism, as well as the Victorian and equestrian influences for which he is known, once again play a big role in the underlying aesthetic of the collection. But this time around, his designs were transmuted by a narrative of courtly love: a vision of a young man aspiring to earn the love of a princess.

The provenance of the materials for Prophetik's creations was as eclectic as it was eco-friendly. Plant and earth-based dyes created soft shades of peach, white, pink and red. Hemp/silk blends, hemp wool plaid, and reworked antique quilts (which were used heavily in the fall/winter 2011 collection) were used in gowns, culottes, tops, and jackets.

Indeed, some of the greatest standouts in this collection were the meticulously worked coats and jackets: outerwear that showed off Garner's technique to great effect.

Favourite piece(s): the gold silk party dresses and gowns with a high bodice in the front that swooped to a low backless design in the back. Simple loop-straps that extended from the front of the bodice held the entire dress in place securely. This was quite possibly one of the most ingenious backless designs I've ever seen.

All photos in this post by Wayne Mah.

Weleda Giveaway Winner

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:56:00 +0000

The winner of the Weleda prize pack is...

Leonie

Congratulations! I'll be contacting you shortly. Thanks to the people who entered. For those who didn't win, keep reading: There are two more cool giveaways coming in the next few weeks.

Eco Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2012: Standing Armed

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:56:00 +0000

After meeting designer Lindsay Walsh and viewing the spring/summer 2012 collection for Standing Armed last year, I was eager to see what she had up her sleeve for next season. Her fall/winter show at Eco Fashion Week bore the same hallmarks as her previous collection: it was full of wearable, on-trend separates made in luxe natural materials such as wool and silk.

The show opened strongly with a sleeveless gray wool trench layered over a long-sleeved dress; more covetable pieces just kept coming down the runway after that. A tight white lace dress added depth to the black silk frock with a high-low hemline that was layered on top. More gray wool separates--a bolero jacket, a skirt--followed. With Walsh's designs, the devil's in the details (like an inverted pleat down the front of an LBD).

An abstract watercolour floral in shades of pink, coral, and gray adorned tops and a printed trouser. From far away the print looked a bit like a mottled pink, star-sprinkled galaxy; up close one could see the blooms. "Very cosmic cherry blossom," I had scrawled in my notebook.

My favourite piece: the fluid red A-line skirt with hidden pockets and a skinny belt.

All photos in this post by Wayne Mah.

P.S. Add a touch of green to your beauty routine by winning a prize pack from Weleda. But you better hurry up and enter: the giveaway closes this Friday.

Eco Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2012: SVENSK

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Think bow-crazed Blair Waldorf meets Swedish hipster, and you pretty much sum up the aesthetic of emerging Swedish knitwear label SVENSK in a nutshell. Founded by Diana Svensk in 2008, the line's humble origins lay in the knit hats that Svensk used to make for friends and family as a teenager. One of her girlish chapeaux caught the eye of a store who placed a large order. Realizing she was on to something, Svensk founded her eponymous label, expanding her offerings to mittens, cardigans, socks, scarves, and sweater dresses.

Made from 100% alpaca wool, SVENSK's fall/winter 2012 collection was sweet, cozy, and unabashedly whimsical. The simplistic palette of grey, red, pink, black, and navy blue underlined the half-preppy, half-hipster aesthetic. Myriad bows fluttered on cardigans and scarves, or from the tops of mittens and socks, like dozens of knit butterflies. A tiered gray poncho, and scarf and sweater dress set with trompe l'oeil hearts, deviated from the bow-adorned norm. Knitwear aside, SVENSK also showed a small handful of tailored wool coats and print dresses.

My favourite piece in the show was the short-sleeved peplum sweater: so on-trend and wearable, and let's face it, just plain adorable.

All photos in this post by Wayne Mah.

P.S. Add a touch of green to your beauty routine by winning a prize pack from Weleda. But you better hurry up and enter: the giveaway closes this Friday.

Eco Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2012: The Value of Thrifting

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

As soon as I saw that Value Village PR and communications manager Sara Gaugl was carrying the same navy blue vintage Coach bag that I was, I knew we would hit it off. After the initial exclamations, we asked each other where we'd found our respective purses. Mine: $40 from an Etsy vintage vendor. Hers: $10 from Value Village. Quite the bargain considering the re-issued version of that same bag sells for about $300 brand new.

Hidden gems like mint condition Coach bags, Waldorf crystal vases, and odd teacups and saucers that complete an antique china set keep Value Village's devoted customers returning for more. "What is old for somebody is new for you," said Anny Leclerc, North American supply chain director for Value Village, who also outlined the appeal of thrift stores in a recession for those craving unique style on a budget. "There are authentic and high-quality pieces for any budget. With the economy today, people need to be more creative and define their own style." The 70s, 80s, and Mad Men-inspired 60s looks making a comeback in recent years can be had for a pittance if one has the patience to do a bit of digging. In fact, Gaugl and Leclerc put their money where their mouth was with a runway show at Eco Fashion Week this season, featuring on-trend looks put together only with clothes and accessories from Value Village.

But as Gaugl and Leclerc explained, thrifting does so much more good than just keep dollars in your pocketbook. Shopping secondhand is the original form of eco fashion. After all, every pre-owned piece of clothing that finds a new home is one less garment in the landfill. Plus, Value Village partners with non-profit organizations, who give their donated clothing and household items to stores to sell in exchange for much needed funds. (The Canadian Diabetes Association is Value Village's largest Canadian partner.) Charities and organizations have received over $1 billion from Value Village to date. Save money, save the earth, do good in your community--it's a win-win-win situation.

So do Gaugl and Leclerc have any tips for thrifting newbies? "Buy what you like, keep an open mind, and try everything on."

This post kicks off a week of Eco Fashion Week coverage. Enjoy!

P.S. Add a touch of green to your beauty routine by winning a prize pack from Weleda. But you better hurry up and enter: the giveaway closes this Friday.

Today's Outfit: Iris Orchid Sneakers

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Joe Fresh sweater
Forever 21 shorts
necklace (from Fine Finds)
Kate Spade bag
Converse Chuck Taylor Dainty in 'Iris Orchid' (c/o)

The boy took these photos for me a couple of weekends ago while I was wearing the Dainty Chucks I received from the generous folks at Converse. Their bright purply-pink shade, dubbed 'Iris Orchid', is exactly the same colour as my beloved J. Crew no. 2 pencil skirt. Small wonder then that I've been loving these sneakers and wearing them non-stop. Although they're sleeker and more feminine than a classic Chuck lo-top, they're just as comfortable and versatile.

Lately life seems to be one never-ending to-do list, and quite frankly the endless merry-go-round of work, fashion events, and blogging is taking its toll on my spirits and energy level. What am I going to do when the homebuying stuff starts taking over my life?! This last weekend was supposed to be a weekend of great productivity, but it ended up being just the opposite. I think my body knew I needed rest more than anything else: All I ended up doing was going to yoga, napping, and watching movies. (Winter's Bone was pretty interesting, if only because I got to see Jennifer Lawrence skin a squirrel before The Hunger Games.) Sometimes lazy weekends are exactly what the doctor ordered.

P.S. Have you entered the Weleda prize pack giveaway yet? Do it now! The giveaway closes this Friday.

Product Review: Weleda One Step Cleanser and Toner PLUS Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (lisa) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Since trying out Weleda's Sea Buckthorn Body Oil last summer and learning more about this all-natural skincare company with its 90+ year history, I've been a fan of the brand and what they do. So you can imagine how psyched I was to try their new One Step Cleanser & Toner ($24). Formulated to be gentle yet effective for normal to combination skin, this product promises to cleanse and clarify in a single step--perfect for busy gals who don't have a lot of morning prep time. The olive oil in the cleanser sweeps away traces of dirt and makeup, while anti-inflammatory, astringent witch hazel deep-cleans pores and soothes irritation.

I've been using Weleda's One Step Cleanser and Toner for a couple of weeks so far. On the whole, it delivers on its promises. The heavy blue glass bottle reminds me of a hot sauce bottle: a plastic spout at the top only lets a couple drops out at a time and you have to shake the bottle a lot for a little product to come out. Because I'm so used to having suds and this formula didn't lather at all, I probably used more of the milky, liquidy cleanser than I needed. That being said, it cleanses effectively without drying out or irritating my skin. The fresh citrus scent (courtesy of essential oils), and the knowledge that the product tones my skin without any additional effort on my part--that's just icing on the cake.

Interested in trying it for yourself? Weleda is giving one lucky Solo Lisa reader a prize pack which includes the One Step Cleanser and Toner. Simply leave a comment on this post with your contact info (email, blog or Twitter) and an answer to the question: "What do you do to save time in your busy day?" The giveaway ends Friday April 20th, 12 pm PST. One winner will be chosen randomly. Good luck!