Shopping

STORE PROFILE: Mikaza returns to Old Ottawa South

Mikaza's showroom in Hull (pictured) offers the space to see everything that's in store -- but the new store on Bank is a good place to start dreaming the modern dream. Photography by Marc Fowler / Metropolis Studio

Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.

Attention all who love modern furniture: Mikaza is opening a second, smaller store in Old Ottawa South. The new shop will show a sampling of what’s available through Mikaza, such as reclaimed wood furnishings from 2 Loons and Divani sofas, as well as offer eye candy to those strolling the tony Bank Street ‘hood.

The move marks a homecoming of sorts for Mikaza. Mihran and Katia Zaroukin first set up shop in Old Ottawa South in 2008, and have since become a source for stylish furniture. They moved across the river in 2010, where a larger space allows shoppers to see the full range of products.

But for those just starting to dream the modern dream, next time you’re in Old Ottawa South take a stroll through the new shop and see what strikes your fancy. Remember, it’s just a sampling of what’s available, but the staff are quite enthusiastic about it all — they just might lure you out to Hull.

The Look: Sleek, industrial, chic, peaceful … and at a price that might surprise.

Perfect for: Nesting in style, impressing the guests.

USP: Planning a Mad Men party? A photo shoot? Dip your toes in modern style with the help of Mikaza’s rental operation. Chairs and other furnishings are available; see Prestige Rental for more details. (Or, if you make it into the VIP lounge for the Ottawa Jazz Festival, you can try out the goods for yourself.)

Mikaza, 120 du Portage (Hull sector of Gatineau), and 1101 Bank St., 819-205-3122, www.mikazahome.com.

Get the scoop on over 435 local stores in the 2011/2012 Ottawa Magazine Shopping Guide. Access the Guide online or get your copy at Britton’s and other newstand locations.

‘TIS THE SEASON: New, hot, and happening triathlon gear

SPIN TO WIN
This lightweight carbon wheel is handmade here in Ottawa. Elite racers swear by it — last season alone, over 100 top-place finishers used Rhus wheels. $999 per pair. Euro-Sports, 13 Bullman St., www.euro-sports.ca.

KICK IT
These snazzy sneaks don’t just look good — they’re engineered to promote a natural running gait. The Newton Distance also includes environmentally friendly features: the laces and webbing are made from recycled materials. $154. Euro-Sports, 13 Bullman St., www.euro-sports.ca.

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STORE PROFILE: Lace up in style at Top of the World

Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.

Spring is in the air, and while the temperatures aren’t as balmy as that nutty week we enjoyed in March, it’s almost safe to put away the winter coat for another year. Spring has sprung, and there’s no better way to step out with bare legs than in a pair of fun sneakers.

And there’s no better place to lace up in style than Top of the World. Their impressive lineup includes Etnies, Emerica, Vans, DC, and plenty more. All displayed like some sacred altar to skate shoes, slipping into a pair can feel a bit like joining an exclusive club. Maybe it’s the tree fort vibe of this iconic shop? Or the fact that it acts as a nexus for all things related to skateboarding, snowboarding, and other hip + urban pursuits?

The Look: Like the basement of your best friend’s cool older brother, it’s hip, a bit dark, and brimming with possibility

Perfect for: Those who plan to spend their summer at the skatepark, on roadtrips, biking around town — and those who just like to inject some of this fun-loving style into their wardrobe.

USP: From details on summer skate camps to videos and events from Top’s own team riders, it’s not only a store but a way to connect with the city’s skateboard scene.

Top of the World, 158 Rideau St., 613-237-4797, www.topoftheworld.com

Get the scoop on over 435 local stores in the 2011/2012 Ottawa Magazine Shopping Guide. Access the Guide online or get your copy at Britton’s and other newstand locations.

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FOR HIM: Indochino pop-up store (April 24 – 28) offers made-to-measure suits for a song

Customers and staff mingle at the Indochino Pop-up Shop in Calgary in March 2012

Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.

Ever peeked inside the closet of someone who has recently returned from Thailand? Chances are there are a few custom gems in there. Often made with unique collars, cuffs, and other details, not to mention quality fabrics, custom-made clothing can be picked up at a fraction of the price one would pay in Canada — or so we’ve heard.

This week, Ottawa gets a bit of that bespoke touch when Canadian upstart Indochino sets up for four days on Slater Street. The company does most of its sales online, is based out of Vancouver and Shanghai, and will visit Ottawa for the first time this week.

From April 24 to 28, a team of stylists and tailors will be available for one-on-one consultations to help men put together the perfect suit. They’re even offering a free custom shirt with every suit purchase if you book an appointment in advance (but walk-ins are also welcome).

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JEWEL TONES: Check out the latest wearable art by local designers

B.C. jade necklace with amethyst and garnet gemstones and Mabe pearl pendant, Originals by Andrea, $360; Canadian gemstone necklace set with natural amethyst, Swarovski crystals, and coral gemstones, Originals by Andrea, $325; set of four fabric bracelets, Vanessa Russell, $200; crystal-row rubber bracelets in cashew, Osolee, $29 each; silver bracelets with glass beads, Renée Lévesque, $59 each; silver shell ring with crystals, Osolee, $20. Vince leather tank dress, $930, from Holt Renfrew, 240 Sparks St., www.holtrenfrew.com.

Styling by Erica Wark
Photography by Christian Lalonde — Photoluxstudio.com

Call it wearable art.

At galleries and boutiques around the city, jewellery designers are bringing accessories to the fore. Andrea Kolpaska takes a shine to Canadian gemstones, and Renée Lévesque continues to offer jaw-dropping statement pieces. Vanessa Russell, whose work is available at L.A. Pai gallery, combines an array of handcrafted materials, while Lee Ann Lacroix launches Osolee, a cheerful line sure to revive any woman’s wardrobe. With the fashion forecast calling for subdued neutrals, tribal prints, and bold colour, it’s the perfect time to slip on some local designer jewellery.

Click on the image at left to view a slideshow of Julia (Models International Management) wearing six more ensembles with complementary jewellery.

TREND SPOTTING: Spring brights with Erica Wark

Photo by Tina Picard

This week, SHOP TALK welcomes guest blogger Erica Wark. Erica is a rising star in the local fashion scene, offering style tips through her blog www.ericawark.com and through various media outlets. For this post, Erica teamed up with local photographer Tina Picard to showcase the energy of one of this season’s top trends.

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WINNER! Originals by Andrea giveaway goes to the girl who loves yellow

The Originals by Andrea necklace is featured in our April 2012 issue. If you didn't win, you can still get the issue, full of beautiful, locally-designed jewellery. Styled by Erica Wark. Photo by Christian Lalonde - Photolux Studio.

Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.

Last week, we announced a contest that asked SHOP TALK readers to share their love of spring fashion — dangling a pretty piece by Andrea Kolpaska to the lucky winner. We received lots of entries; there was a noticeable desire for bright colours and open-toed shoes, though one reader insisted that no matter the weather, a great pair of boots can be both nostalgic and modern. Thanks for sharing your springtime energy!

This morning we chose the winner by random draw. Interestingly, the winner was one of many who expressed her love for one of the season’s hottest colours: yellow. Congrats — we’re standing by to hear from you!

If you didn’t win, you can still get the issue, full of beautiful, locally-designed jewellery. It’s on the news stands for another few weeks.

EVENT PREVIEW: Strategic shopping skills required at the Ottawa Antiques Show

This week, SHOP TALK welcomes guest blogger Krista Norris. Norris is a regular volunteer at Ottawa Fashion Week and an aspiring fashion writer.

Who doesn’t like the look of beautiful antique mirrors, Victorian couches, and vintage handbags? These are a few items which we hope to find at the Ottawa Antiques show this weekend. With spring cleaning amongst us, it’s a great time to find new things to freshen up our home, garden, and wardrobe. Hosting approximately sixty vendors selling an array of eclectic items, we must be able to find something to add a bit of style to our life, right?

While it’s anybody’s guess what exactly will be on offer, in past years vendors have brought Parisian carpets, 50’s style hats, and (apparently) Gucci, Prada, and Fendi vintage handbags. We’ll just have to see for ourselves if we can find one of those!

Robert Poirer, a regular vendor from Montreal, is bringing romantic vintage earrings, rings, and Art Deco photo frames. Keep an eye out for this vintage Moschino handbag, or classic Tiffany heart shaped paperweights.

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CONTEST! Spring fashion giveaway from Ottawa Magazine + Originals by Andrea

Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.

Have you seen our April issue? As part of our ongoing mission to bring more fashion to the pages of Ottawa Magazine, we teamed up with expert stylist Erica Wark and award-winning photographer Christian Lalonde to highlight some of the great work being done by local jewellery designers Andrea Kolpaska, Lee Ann Lacroix, Renée Levesque, and Vanessa Russell.

The fashion feature won’t be released online — so get thee to a news stand to pick up your copy!

To help celebrate the release of what many are saying is our best foray into fashion editorial yet, we’re giving away one of the pieces from the spread.

This piece by Andrea Kolpaska is a perfect addition to your spring wardrobe — in fact, it’s a jewellery wardrobe unto itself! Part of the Originals by Andrea Canadian Gemstone Collection, the piece features amethyst, carved coral, and Swarovski crystals in purple and green tones, and includes two different detachable necklaces and two bracelets — plus, the necklace can be shortened into a single strand that sits about mid-chest or can be linked or twisted together to make a chunky statement piece. You can even jazz up a plain black dress by wrapping the necklace around your waist like a belt! There are also two separate bracelets that come with this set: one with simple silver links and another chunky bracelet with stones and beads.

To win this eye-catching piece simply tell us about something you’re excited about in fashion this spring — it can be a new trend, a favourite summer dress, anything at all.

You can make a note in the comments section below, or through our Facebook, but you have to do it before the end of day on April 1st. We’ll draw the winning name on April 2nd.

DIY: Going natural with your beauty routine

Products with moisturizing properties, like honey and oil, work well in home-made masks, and sugar is a natural exfoliant.

This week, SHOP TALK welcomes guest blogger Melissa Peters. Melissa is Ottawa Magazine’s sales coordinator and an all-around beauty aficionado.

I feel like I require an arsenal to keep up with the ever-changing trends in beauty. Strewn across my bathroom counter are the nudes, the poppies, the pinks, the bolds, the blues, and the reds that continue to cycle in and out of trend. Staying on trend can be expensive, but there are a few simple ways you can cut down the cost of your beauty routine — and natural products are a natural place to start.

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