Fashionista Talk.com

Double Take

2010-03-11T16:07:28Z

Hello my lovlies,

I was called in to work on Tuesday to do photo-doubling for Naomi Watts. For those of you who are not familiar with what that would entail, the idea is basically to make me look as similar to the actress as possible. For example, in the event that there wasn’t enough time to shoot wide shots of a scene or they need close up on hands or legs, they call me. While in hair/make-up truck, the only major change was the wig and the wild lipstick. As you can see in the pictures, Naomi’s costume was relatively simple; black skinny pants and a pink cashmere turtleneck. I’m not sure if I would ever wear these pieces in this combination because, quite honestly, it’s a little boring and banal – not an unusual way of describing the work of wardrobe departments on set.

The weather in Toronto is quickly improving; most of the snow has melted and on Tuesday the temperature was about 13 C. Needless to say, I was thoroughly enjoying the sunshine and couldn’t get enough of the freedoms it allowed – mainly the choice of spending time in the fresh air….lol, what a luxury. Anyway, as I was soaking in this beautiful, spring feeling it was quickly crushed when I stepped into the studio. The set was dressed for winter…what irony .

What I’m wearing:

Skinny black pants by “J Brand”
Cashmere turtleneck
Simple long-sleeve undershirt
Leather boots (the ones in the picture are mine; I changed back into them with every chance) (as seen in Nov. 23′09, Mar. 10′10)

A Bohemian Touch

2010-03-12T05:57:05Z

Hello dear readers,

Today’s look-of-the-day is my take on Boho. The aesthetic synthesis we now recognize as the ‘Bohemian style’ has gypsy roots and is often associated with unconventional, artistic lifestyles. Keeping these two facts in mind is particularly helpful when constructing a boho look because they trigger a multitude of mental images and direct associations. Ask yourself the question of ‘what would a gypsy girl wear?’ and you’ll know immediately weather a certain garment qualifies. Their usual characteristics are: (a) loose fit, (b) natural materials, (c) muted tones, (d) flowy silhouettes, and (e) an abundance of accessories.

Now a days, the term ‘Bohemian’ is applied to people who live unconventional, usually artistic lives. Nonconformity is the ever-present undercurrent of this aesthetic movement (if you can call it that), and naturally, the same principal applies in the construction of its looks. Freedom from limits of self-expression is at the heart of this fashion ‘genre’ so explore. For example, play with chunky bangle, large hoop earrings, flowy long skirts and dresses, long tops, flats, or broken in boots. With Boho, fashionable is the anti-fashionable.

What I’m wearing:

Cashmere top by “Michael Kors” (as seen in Mar. 1′10)
Cashmere wrap scarf by “Donna Karan” (as seen in Mar. 1′10)
Simple tank-top by “BDG”
Vintage mini skirt
Leather boots (as seen in Nov. 23′09)
Leather bag by “BERGE” (as seen in Mar. 1′10)
Headband by “Priti Moudgill” (as seen in Vacation Clothes)

HAUS Alert

2010-03-10T05:12:57Z

Hello dear fashionistas,

On Saturday a bunch of us went to a grand opening party for a new store on Bloor St. West called HAUS. It’s “the only concept store where local and international designers and artists alike showcase their pieces through the vision of HAUS.” At the party I had the pleasure of meeting its two charming owners William and Rachel. Rachel told me about the vision behind this cute little shop – most of their clothes being recycled from vintage pieces, and their desire to support local talent. In doing so, HAUS fosters a creative, fashion-conscious community that extends beyond mere consumerism.

When I was invited to this party I didn’t really know what to expect in terms of the style of their clothes but, once we got there, I was happy to discover many interesting, fun pieces that I would love to add to my collection. I tried a few garments on but there was so much commotion from the party that I decided to leave the shopping for another day…and I will be back! I think HAUS will quickly become one of Toronto’s fashion hot-spots. Check it out; it’s on 1265 Bloor St. West. I doubt that you’ll be leaving empty handed.

Click here to view the embedded video.

What I’m wearing:

Silk dress by “Temperley London”
Shoes by “Elie Tahari” (as seen in Jan. 24′10, Feb. 23′10, Mar. 5′10)
Nude tights by “Calvin Klein”
Plastic flower ring (I bought in Cuba for one convertible peso) (as seen in Dec. 15′09)
Gold necklace
Clutch by “Murval” (as seen in Jan. 27′10)

Happy Women’s Day Fashionistas!

2010-03-10T02:28:26Z

Hello dear ladies,

Our day has finally come! We only have 24 hours to celebrate our womanhood so enjoy every second of it. Today’s look-of-the-day is my little gift to you all.

BTW, the last picture is a vintage, Russian, March 8th postcard that says, “Freedom from kitchen slavery.” Amen to that sistas!!!

What I’m wearing:

Silk dress by “NOUGAT”
Silk jacket by “ETRO”
Nude tights by “Calvin Klein”
Crystal ring by “Emporio Armani” (as seen in Nov. 12′o9)
Necklace by “Ben-Amun”

Hush

2010-03-08T00:31:37Z

Hello dear visitors,

I checked out a new play at the Tarragon Theatre on friday night called Hush. It seemed to possess a bit of surrealist and even Freudian thematic undercurrents as it explored the threshold between dreams and reality. This play was the first Tarragon show for my mom and I really wanted her to like it. Ironically enough, at the end of the play, she was the only one fully satisfied with the experience – go figure (nothing can ever bore this woman). Well…overall the play really was good – the cast was strong and the plot kept you wondering the entire time; trying to decipher the possible meaning of the dreams in the context of the characters’ lives. If psychological enigmas are your ‘cup of tea’ you will love Hush, but if not there is always Communion (which I’m planning on checking out next Friday).

This is what I wore to Hush. Admittedly I looked a little overdressed for the event but that was only because most other people were way too underdressed . For example there was a woman, sitting in the first two rows, who had a huge hole in the back of her shirt. It’s theatre for god’s sake, get with it people .

What I’m wearing:

Silk blouse by “ETRO” (My newest purchase. I was itching to wear it and was determined to make it work with something; it didn’t come easy despite its relative simplicity)
Lace and leather mini skirt by “YA-YA Aflalo” (as seen in Jan. 4′10)
Tights by “Givenchy” (as seen in Feb. 12′10, Feb. 13′10, Feb. 23′10)
Shoes by “Guillaume Hinfray” (as seen in Jan. 21′10, Jan. 18′10, Jan. 13′10, Jan. 30′10, Feb. 8′10, Feb. 9′10, Feb. 17′10)
Pearl/gold 5-strand bracelet by “Mirale & Aya” (as seen in Dec. 9, Jan. 4′09, Feb. 9′10, Feb. 28′10)
Silk camisole
Pearl/silver necklaces by “Peyote Bird” (as seen in Feb. 9′10, Dec. 9′09, Jan. 12′10, Dec. 9, Feb. 28′10)
Wild-pearl necklace (as seen in Dec. 9′09, Feb. 13′10)
Short-sleeve faux fur jacket by “Mcginn” (as seen in Gloves)
Vintage ring

With Love

2010-03-08T03:25:11Z

Hello,

To me, March 6th is a special day for a number of reasons. On March 6th (1853) Giuseppe Verdi’s opera, La Traviata, received its premiere performance in Venice. La Traviata is my favorite opera of all time, and after its premier on March 6th the world became just a little more beautiful and brilliant. On March 6th (1869) Dmitri Mendeleev presented the first periodic table to the Russian Chemical Society – bringing us one step closer to the understanding of chemical behavior. March 6th, Larisa Vasilievna Gribanos (now known as Laura Foote) was born. She is a strong, talented, beautiful woman who I have the immense pleasure of calling my aunt. Laura’s limitless capacity for caring, attentiveness, and compassion makes her precious to me.

Aunt Laura knitted me this beautiful blanket you see in the pictures and every time I wrap it around my shoulders it feels like she is hugging me. I feel warmth emanating from the blanky that is a product of something other than cashmere. It’s my dear auntie’s love .

Wonderful things happen on March 6th and the birth of my aunt proves the matter. Thank you so much for knitting me this amazing blanky; I will cherish it always. Happy Birthday our dear “Chica Bomba!” .

Love Lida

What I’m wearing:

A cashmere blanket (knitted by my aunt, Laura)
Nude tights
Patent leather shoes by “Report Signature”

Silk Cello

2010-03-08T00:37:23Z

Hello Hello,

Today’s look-of-the-day carries a musical theme, with an almost romantic air to it. After the Russian sauna, I went to a house party last night. It was being hosted by my brother, Taras and one of his friends – a professional cello player, Min. Wine, cheese, hookah, and heated debates on the topic of ‘free will vs. determinism’ made the party engaging and relaxing at the same time. The apple-pie and mojitos were also a nice touch. Good job guys…’Great Success’!!!

Aesthetically speaking, I thoroughly enjoyed my choice of wardrobe for the night. I was originally planning to wear my Temperley London dress that I haven’t shown you yet. But I am so glad that I didn’t because I would have felt too uncomfortable sitting on the floor in it. This flowy twenty8twelve silk dress made me feel feminine, pretty, and comfortable at the same time.

What I’m wearing:

Silk dress by “twenty8twelve”
Gold heart necklace (as seen in Feb. 14′10)
Nude tights by “Calvin Klein”
Shoes by “Elie Tahari” (as seen in Jan. 24′10, Feb. 23′10)
Gold link bracelet (as seen in Jan. 25′10, Jan. 17′10, Jan. 5′10, Nov. 30′09, Feb. 14′10)
Coat by “twenty8twelve” (as seen in Nov. 12, Dec. 9, Dec. 15′09)

Silver & Green

2010-03-08T03:27:06Z

Olah amigos?

The pictures for today’s look-of-the-day were taken from one of my trips to Santa Clara, Cuba (2008). This is an evening look that I wore to dinner and then to a patio jazz-bar of the resort. With the exception of the accessories, this entire outfit consists of Marciano garments. Generally, a lot of my vacation clothes are Marciano; probably because their style is appropriately loud and bright for the festive atmosphere of resorts and because I wouldn’t worry as much if I were to ruin or lose any of them. I’m obviously hesitant in bringing couture to a place where people get uncontrollably indulgent with mojitos .

p.s. I find that Marciano collections have gotten worse with time. Of course it’s possible that my own style is just changing but every time I walk into their stores, now a days, I can’t imagine wearing any of it. I find that the fabrics and designs of their older collections were more refined and unique. Marciano is becoming a little too mainstream and ‘hoochie’ for my liking.

What I’m wearing:

Silk top by “Marciano” (Japanese inspired)
Shorts by “Marciano”
Wedge platform sandals by “Marciano”
Crystal necklace (bought at the market of La Paz, Mexico)
Chunky silver ring with a large crystal

Development

2010-03-08T03:28:09Z

Hello fashionistas,

I am only posting Wednesday’s look-of-the-day now because I ended up being busier than expected. The beginning of spring seems to be propelling plans into action and turning stagnant procrastinations into developments. It’s the season when new ideas bloom. I’ve always noticed how the energy of the city shift when people begin to sense spring in the air. It wakes Canadians from their winter hibernation and zombie-like state of passivity and indifference. I noticed that as the snow melts and the birds begin to chirp there is an increase in human interaction on the streets and the city begins to vibrate with possibility. I like to think of it as the possibility of change and development; hence this silk Development dress. I welcome this commotion and vibrancy with open arms .

What I’m wearing:

Silk patterned dress by “Development” (as seen in Nov. 17,09)
Leather vintage boots (as seen in Nov. 17, Dec. 9′09, Feb. 13′10)
Silver multi-chain bracelet (as seen in Beaded Dresses, Dec. 21′09,Dec. 20′09, Dec. 7′09 , Feb. 8′10, Feb. 22′10)
Nude tights

Patent It!

2010-03-08T00:38:06Z

Hello my lovelies,

I really patented-it-up for this look-of-the-day. I’ve been waiting to wear this jacket for a while now and today’s decent weather finally permitted the materialization of my modest desire. I generally love large, high collars and I especially appreciate well-constructed ones that stay up as intended. The texture of the patent leather allows the collar on this jacket to stay in place regardless of how high you want it. I paired it with high, patent leather gloves, as I had done in the Gloves video. Once I decided to complete the look with the patent, Pierre Hardy boots, I kept the rest of the garments simple. The shine of patent leather was enough of a statement in itself so I went with a plain sweater and jeans to balance out the glam. That is basically all there’s to my ‘patent’ story .

I wore this outfit for a sushi-lunch (on Queen St.) with a friend that I hadn’t seen in years.

p.s. Thank you for the sweet emails. Your support means a lot to me.

What I’m wearing;

Jeans by “Denim Birds” (as seen in Jan. 1′10, Nov. 10, Dec. 11, Dec. 24, Dec. 28′09, Feb. 15′10)
Cashmere sweater by “Julie & Jack” (as seen in Jan. 13′10, Nov. 25′09, Feb. 15′10)
Patent leather jacket by “Elie Tahari” (as seen in Gloves, Let it Rain (Rain Clothes))
Patent leather boots by “Pierre Hardy” (as seen in Jan. 20′10)
Bag by “Renato Angi Venezia” (as seen in Nov. 10, Nov. 21, Dec. 3,Dec. 4′09, Jan. 8′10, Feb. 22′10)
Crystal heart long necklace by “Cristal de Sèvres” (as seen in Jan. 8′10, Jan. 16′10)
Patent leather gloves by “Fownes”(as seen in Gloves)