Toronto Moda

ENJOYING A PATIO DRINK AT CASEY'S

2013-08-05T22:50:00.000-04:00

No need to hit the Caribbean for that special cocktail, just head down to your local Casey's Grill Bar.

Check out the following traditional summer staples, but with a little fun spin, the creation of Mixologist Nathan Cameron. Whether you decide to make them yourself or enjoy a sunny after or a balmy evening with friends at Casey's, these cocktail, makes getting together unforgettable.

Blueberry Cider Sangria

Shock Top Margarita

Strawberry Cider Mojito

Once you try them I am sure you will be hooked. If you want to enjoy these at home, the Recipes for the above Casey's Summer Cocktails are below.

Carmex - Best Kept Secret, No More!!

2012-11-14T16:36:00.001-05:00

Carmex was created by the founder Alfred Woelbing to relief a pesky condition he had, the cold sore. Today, this product has become a leading lip balm in the United States and an international favourite, available in more than 26 countries.

Carmex lip balm contains a unique blend of ingredients, such as cocoa butter and lanolin. These and other emollients give you healthy restoring lost moisture and preventing dryness and chapping.

As winter approaches, Carmex will provide much needed relief to dry, chapped lips caused by the harsh elements and should be part of your winter beauty and wellness routine. Carmex Lip Balm is a must have for any make-up bag or purse.

Carmex is available across Canada and can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharmasave, Walmart, Rexall, Metro, Safeway, Lawton’s, Sobeys and London Drugs. Carmex is so affordable, priced at $3.49, a great Christmas stocking idea.

RW & CO. and SKYY Present #DOUBLEFEATURE‏

2012-09-04T21:37:00.001-04:00

RW&CO. has created an innovative eCommerce website and partnered with The Coveteur for launch on the cutting edge of online fashion. The Canadian fashion brands' newly designed eCommerce website with innovation that brings shopping ease to you. Known for effortless & original fashions for Him & Her, RW&CO. plans to continue to pay attention to detail that is apparent in everything they do…from fashion to exceptional customer care. Sponsored by SKYY Vodka, the pre-TIFF launch event took place at a private residence in the Forest Hill area last week.

ABSOLUT® Greyhound... Unleashed

2012-07-11T12:42:00.000-04:00

ABSOLUT® Canada has unleashed ABSOLUT® GREYHOUND – its largest-ever cocktail program. And to celebrate, I attended MSTRKRFT show at The Hoxton with Angelique from Flow 93.5/CHUM FM. I absolutely looooovvvveeee grapefruit, and tasting the signature cocktails was heaven.

Fitzroy Boutique Online & In-store

2012-07-10T16:15:00.002-04:00

Launching last month, www.shopfitzroy.com is an online store unlike any other in Canada, offering hard-to-find,high quality independent lines with everything priced at under $200. First launched as a pop-up shop in September 2011, Fitzroy Boutique is a Toronto-based store offering women a curated collection of pieces in their signature ‘boho-glam’ style. Canadian gals can now shop online at www.shopfitzroy.com while those in Toronto can choose to order online and pick up locally for free or simply shop in store at Fitzroy’s permanent “store-within-a-store” location inside BYOB Cocktail Emporium at 972 Queen St. West. Fitzroy also offers free domestic shipping for orders over $150. “While most online stores with similar price points and styles are based out of the States, Shop Fitzroy stands alone in being able to offer these international lines to Canadians without them having to incur the high duties cost to ship them over the border” points our Angela Pastor, Co-Owner of Fitzroy Boutique. Fitzroy continues to carry exclusive and independent lines such as the cutting-edge Aussie lines Bless’ed are the Meek, Pink Stitch and Ladakh and L.A. favourites like Brandy Melville, Show Me Your Mumu and Whitney Eve. “We are so thrilled to be launching our online store and to be able to bring some gorgeous, independent and exclusive lines to Canada at affordable prices” says Julie Buczkowski, Co-Owner of Fitzroy Boutique.

JanSport Sport Bonfire Sessions

2012-07-10T12:41:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago VICE and JanSport rolled up to NXNE and brought the JanSport Bonfire Sessions Toronto with Smith Westerns and Dusted at Artscape Gibraltar Point. The videos of the Smith Westerns performance are live online. Watch the 3-part short doc filmed at the June 14th Bonfire Session, including Part 1: Meet Smith Westerns, as well as live performance footage of "Dreams" and "Gimme Some Time". Watch all 3 parts here: http://jansportbonfiresessions.noisey.com/toronto.php This year VICE teamed with JanSport to work on the third installment of their Bonfire Sessions, the series travels the country putting on free outdoor concerts with complimentary snacks, drinks, and amazing bands. It started in March down in Austin with White Denim, hung out in Palm Springs with Crystal Antlers and then headed north to Toronto for an island rager with Smith Westerns and Dusted.

Art of Fashion - June 16th, 2012

2012-06-09T17:00:00.002-04:00

Be sure to check out Art of Fashion this coming Saturday. Look out for my good friend and Toronto Moda teammate Andrea's line called Andi G., she will be selling leather belts & accessories. Also, my vintage-savvy friend Natasha of Singhnature will be helping out at iMoniq's new jewellery line.

Laya Spa and Yoga Studio

2012-06-09T09:06:00.000-04:00

Laya Spa and Yoga Studio feels like a relaxing escape from the stress of the big city. This beautiful getaway is located in the heart of Toronto’s downtown west end district. Once inside we were greeted with the calming sounds of sitar music and a welcoming smile from the front desk support. The décor was modern and clean with dark wood floors, cream walls and mosaic tiling creating a Moroccan-esque inspired environment. Each room caters to a private service of treatments and the space is made to feel more secluded with its beautiful wooden sliding doors, providing an intimate atmosphere that you share with your technician or instructor. The yoga space steps away from the traditional layouts of mirrored studios and supports the ego free approach to the yoga experience; allowing its visitors to enjoy a more focused, deeper session by dissolving all distractions.

We started the day off with Lilly who gave us the Bowen therapy massage, while being educated on its long lasting pain relief techniques. Having suffered a back injury, where traditional body massages have only temporarily cured my aches, Bowen therapy is an inspiring alternative for a more permanent fix to my alignments. Next we moved on to the Manicure & Pedicure room where Leda treated us to a 15 minute hand massage, amazing! Alessandra De Oliveira the owner of Laya Spa and Yoga truly understands the meaning of a healthy wellbeing uniting the need for relaxation with the luxury of being pampered, a necessary combo in my opinion. We finished our day with some eyebrow threading with the marvelous Leila a wizard in the art of brow shaping. Laya Spa and Yoga has an extensive list of exciting services that can be found on their website at www.layaspaandyoga.com. We had a terrific experience! We love, love, love Laya Spa and Yoga, they definitely have not seen the last of me.

#SkinnygirlTO Summer Cocktail Launch

2012-06-04T00:55:00.001-04:00

Tuesday night marked the tweet-up launch for Bethenny Frankel‘s complete line of Skinnygirl Cocktails in Toronto. The event was held at the Drake Hotel and hosted by Dina Pugliese of Canada’s Got Talent. Skinnygirl Cocktails unveiled their newest line of low-calorie, ready-to-serve Sangria, Cosmopolitans, Red and White wine that will be available in stores this coming summer. The ultra girl's night included sampling the newest of the Skinny Girl collection, hors d’oeuvres, brownie pops by Livi Love Bakery and signature ponytails & manis courtesy of Lux Spa.

2012 Passion for Fashion Awards

2012-04-03T22:08:00.005-04:00

On Monday, April 2, 2012, the third annual Passion For Fashion Awards took place at the Toronto Fashion Incubator (TFI). Out of twelve finalists the three winners were chosen as follows:

Passion For Fashion Award Prize $1,000 cash prize, a TFI Outreach Membership, and 50 hours of business and fashion industry mentorship
Emily Woudenberg

Eveleen Dollery Award Prize $1,000 cash
Dylan Uscher

Eveleen Dollery Award Runner Up $500 cash
Consuelo McAlister

ABOUT PASSION FOR FASHIONBorn from of a partnership between two cutting-edge organizations, A Passion for Fashion marries Youth Employment Services YES’s expertise in youth entrepreneurship with the Toronto Fashion Incubator’s (TFI) success in inspiring new fashion design talent between the age of 16 – 29. Now in its third year, this exciting program gives young fashion designers and entrepreneurs the opportunity to explore the world of entrepreneurship in the fashion industry, for FREE! The program is funded by the Ministry of Ontario's Youth Entrepreneurship Program.

Hair on the Avenue Medulla S/S Trends 2012

2012-04-03T21:51:00.006-04:00

Hair on the Avenue latest short-film has been released. In collaboration with director Peter Tamlin, the team at Hair on the Avenue has put together the most sought after looks of the season in a film entitled Medulla – showcasing the movement and fluidity of S/S 2012 hair trends. See Toronto Moda's post on last year's Hair on the Avenue film launch here

Out of the forecasted trends.. this one holds dear to my heart.

Texture is intrinsic and untamed.
Influenced by tribal trends in fashion, hair is wild and free this season. Nurture the fluidity of your locks and enhance your true texture.
“Recognizing your hairs natural elements will nourish your texture and keep your hair healthy,” says stylist, Anthony Ingraldi, “Embrace your curls and let your waves flow, confidence will ensue,” he adds.

iYellow Wine and World Malbec Day

2012-04-03T21:34:00.008-04:00

iYellow Winter Wine Club has one class for this semester on April 10th, 2012 at Marben Restaurant, the theme will be California Dreams. There is still time to register at www.iyellowineclub.com.

One of my favourite events is nearing is the World Malbec Day, see here for last year's post. This year the event will be hosted by iYellow Wine Club & Wines of Argentina at 580 Lofts on King West on April 17th from 6:30 - 10:30pm. Please see the flyer below for details.

Tickets are avaiable online enter discount code Malbec10 to receive a 10% discount

Essence Launches in Canada

2012-03-08T19:45:00.003-05:00

Essence one of the top European value brand is now available in Canada. an award-winning value cosmetics brand, will enters the Canadian market March 2012. Essence feature funm flirty, and trend cosmetics that range from....get this... $1.49 to $4.99 CAD. Products include trendy lipsticks, eye shadows, mascaras, concealers, powders, nail polishes, and pencils, will be available, exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix, in over 900 stores across the country.
A couple snapshot of myself and Rachel trying out Essence make-up & nail polish.

Silpada at the Oscars

2012-03-01T16:59:00.002-05:00

Once again, Silpada Designs will be in on all things Academy Awards by participating in a pre-OscarsStyle Lounge. As always, we want share all the behind-the-scenes action with our readers.

Kevin Sorbo, asking advise what item

to choose.

Chelsea Hightower of Dancing with the Stars

is not waiting, she is going for the ear ring

Partnering up always helps.

Nice bracelet.

Dove Stylist - Oscar Hair

2012-02-29T21:40:00.000-05:00

84th Academy Awards was Sunday and everyone is eyeing the gowns and hair. Mark Townsend, Dove stylist to the celebrities is at it again, producing flawless style for Elizabeth Olsen and Kisten Wiig. I had the honour of chatting with Mark Townsend last year just before he was jetting off to another award show.

Mark styled Elizabeth's hair for the Oscar party.

Elizabeth Olsen

Mark told me that the dress inspires the hair, he creates the hair so as not to overpower the dress. At the Oscars on Sunday, we see with Kristen Wiig's hair, some might say that it is a bit casual for the event, but in fact, the hair complements the dress, the perfect combination. This is what Mark said when he saw Kristen's dress.

"I was in love with Kristen's J. Mendel dress as soon as I saw it; I was so inspired by the silhouette and colour. We wanted Kristen's hair to be full with voluminous waves and have an edgy and sexy texture"

Kristen Wiig

Visit www.facebook.com/dove to learn more and for additional style inspiration that all women can achieve.

to learn more and for additional style inspiration that all women can achieve.

Vaseline

2012-02-26T14:38:00.000-05:00

The change of weather tends to havoc with ones skin. Many of us have put up with that dry itchy winter skin year after year. Now, Vaseline have added three Total Moisture products to our favourite lotion line to stabilize the skin's balance.

Vaseline's new Total Moisture line in the three varieties arrived just in time for the rescue, the products are available now in grocery and drug stores across Canada.

Vaseline Giveaways! Prize Packs! Spring is around the corner and Toronto Moda wants to make sure our readers welcome Spring with nice smooth skin and Vaseline's Total Moisture is the answer. Send us a note at Tina@TorontoModa.com and we will enter your name into the draw.

Mercedes Benz Start-Up 2012

2012-02-25T06:41:00.003-05:00

Mercedes-Benz Canada and IMG have started their search for the next Mercedes-Benz Start Up recipient. This year the semi-final competition interviews have expanded to four cities across Canada in order to ensure accesibilty for designers coast-to-coast.

For application download and program requirements visit:

www.Mercedes-BenzStartUp.com

An follow @MBStartUp and on Facebook.com/MBStartUp.com to stay up-to-date on news & info.

Fidelity Jeans

2012-02-25T06:33:00.002-05:00

Inspired by rock and roll, the Spring 2012 Fidelity collection takes its iconic styles and updates them in new washes, from ultra soft Jett, to sexy stretch Ginza, to LSD, an acid wash. The collection comes in many different styles, and pants often come in a variety of colours and washes. Made in LA, using a blend of Italian & Japanese denim.

See Fidelity Jeans lookbook here.

Prabal Gurung x Sephora

2012-02-25T06:26:00.003-05:00

Coming this April!

Red Carpet Ready

2012-02-23T22:27:00.000-05:00

Clinique Quickliner for Eyes Intense, the ultimate tool to intensify and amplify your eyes all day or all night long. This launch, came just in time for the Red Carpet event.

Three easy steps to get the look, it is that simple.

Allergy tested and 100% fragrance free, water-resistant. Ophthalmologist Tested, Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. They come in six vibrant shades ranging from deep black, charcoal and brown to a beautiful midnight blue, rich plum and vibrant green.

Last Minute Valentine's Day Ideas.

2012-02-10T04:52:00.008-05:00

The time of year as upon, we either ignore it, embrace it, or ... hate it. Personally, I think all holidays are a great way to take advantage of specials and deals. I bought MYSELF cinammon hearts on sale today. Here's a few ideas of let's call it... things to do or try out over the next few days. ;)

Toula Ristorante & Bar * Valentine's Day Dinner
For all the lovebirds out there (or a group of friends!), a Valentine’s prix fixed 4-course menu is available for $75/person from Feb 10 - 12th, & Feb 14th.

Malpeque oysters w/ Rockford cheese & herbs
OR
in-house cured wild salmon crostini
OR
warm mini potato truffle cake topped w/ caviar

... check the rest of the menu here. My mouth is (literally) watering and cannot finish the typing up tje rest of this
delectable menu.

Apothic Red
A few months ago I tried Apothic Red for the first time, its a full-bodied red that blends the best qualities of Syrah, Zinfandel, Merlot and Cabernet. It pairs PERFECTLY with dark chocolate - grab the fondue (or a pot) and berries. This is the ultimate three-some.

...or a neatly packaged fragance from Thomas Sabo - Charm Rose & Charm Kiss

La Tease Event - February 13th

2012-02-09T23:18:00.001-05:00

Just in time for Valentine's. DivaGirl & Fame Media, two elite, Toronto-based entertainment companies, have paired up to bring the ultimate pre-Valentine’s “tease” for women. We’ll have him eating out of the palm of your perfectly polished hands. Have fun, be coached with exciting and interesting tips, join this fun event on February 13th and be ready for February 14th....Happy Valentine's Day!

DivaGirl Fitness, an online female community dedicated to helping women get fit, have fun, and feel sexy! On Monday, February 13, partnered with Fame Media, we are hosting our annual La Tease event at Atelier Cafe Lounge in the trendy King West area. This ladies' night out will feature a sexy dance workshop, live entertainment by the Chic-A-Boom Room's nuvo-burlesque dancers, relationship and dating tips from guest speakers and more. Early bird tickets are $15, with a group rate of 4 for $45. The La Tease website can be found here: http://divagirl-inc.com/fitness/2011/10/02/la-tease-2012-toronto-on/

Absolut Mode

2011-12-02T10:16:00.007-05:00

ABSOLUT® VODKA launched its 2011 limited-edition bottle ABSOLUT® MODE last night at Malaparte (TIFF Bell Lightbox). Spanning eight decades of fashion design, the museum-style exhibit was curated by Jeanne Beker, host of CTV’s Fashion Television.
The one-night only exhibit featured personal items of clothing and accessories from Canadian style icons like Jeanne Beker, Suzanne Rogers, Stacey Kimel, Bernadette Morra and Lisa Tant. Dresses on display included Chanel, YSL, Oscar De La Renta, & Christian door including vintage couture. Also, were fashion illustrations by Fredereick Watson and new touch-screen design technology by Nytric Limited from Ryerson University School of Fashion.

“Fashion is the inspiration behind the beautifully designed ABSOLUT® MODE bottle and the genesis of this year’s event,” says Chris Bhowmik, Senior Brand Manager for ABSOLUT® VODKA in Canada. “ABSOLUT® created this unique exhibit in consultation with Jeanne Beker to pay tribute to Canadian and international designers and fashion leaders.”

Annabelle x Marcelle

2011-11-29T12:37:00.002-05:00

Affordable brands Annabelle x Marcelle launched their Spring 2012 beauty & makeup products at the Thompson Rooftop Lounge featuring skincare and make-up treats, cocktails & hors d'oeuvres. The night featured an onsite DIY lipgloss station - I ended up with a bronze colour. My favourite product of the night is the Marcelle Vitamin C hydrating gel, using it for a couple weeks I've noticed a difference in the appears in my skin - brighter, supple, and the lessening the dark spots (which becomes more obvious as my tan fades). If you live or visiting Montreal try to stay posted on their bi-annual warehouse sales!

new 'Smudge Paint' Tutorial..

Karamea Fashion at the Toronto One of A Kind Show (OOAK)

2011-11-22T23:33:00.007-05:00

Karamea by designer Michelle Turpin, is an intrinsically feminine womenswear line renown for quality, fit, fabrication and attention to detail. This line is for the woman who embraces her femininity and the strength that comes along with it. She understands that good design is in the details, and commanding an audience can be done with subtlety and class.

It is designed and produced in Toronto: a list of retailers can be found here.

She is showing at the Toronto One of a Kind Show from November 24th- December 4th in booth Q43 in the Fashion District. For those of you that want to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, this is the place to do it (.....and pick up a little something for yourself!)

For the chance to win a $100 Karamea gift certificate that is redeemable at the show or at the designer studio, follow Karamea on Twitter or like the Facebook page. Winners will be announced Friday, November 25th.

And compliments of the designer herself, use the coupon below for $3 off online show tickets (must be purchased online, cannot be used at the door)

See you at the show!