On Caroline: Le Chateau dress $129.99, Walmart sandals $19.99, Caroline's own earrings; on Delaney: Marshall's dress $24.99, The Shoe Company pumps $89.99, Ardene earrings $7.50, The Shoe Company clutch $24.99. Click on photo for more images. Photo by Eric Watters.

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

Yes, it’s that time again: prom! Whether you are going yourself, have a son or daughter counting down the days, or just want to relive the joy (and pain) of this teenage rite of passage, this week SHOP TALK talks to stylist Erica Wark about all things prom.

Erica is fresh off a media tour with VISA, who launched a free app called Plan’it Prom. The app aims to keep prom-goers (and their financiers) on budget by monitoring spending. Perhaps the most crucial part is the first step: a set budget. The app then manages all prom-related items, allotting a dollar amount for transportation, photos, etc.

All to say Erica has been in the trenches of prom planning for the past few weeks. Here’s what she has to say about traditions, trends, and money-saving tips.

On Delaney: Envied "Supertrash" dress, $310, The Shoe Company pumps $69.99, Le Chateau earrings $18, Le Chateau bracelets $25; On Caroline: Marshall's dress $49.99, The Shoe Company pumps $79.99, Le Chateau bracelet $18. Click on photo for more images. Photo by Eric Watters

SHOP TALK: What are the big trends for prom 2013?
Erica Wark: Embellishment is everywhere this prom season; try it with jewels, lace overlay or even applique. For colours, I love cobalt blues, bold tangerines and corals, or softer hues like mint and sea foam, blush and off-white. In terms of hem length my advice is do what works for you; if you’ve got great legs show them off with a shorter dress; if you’re looking for uber-glam, go long! You can even do the high-low hem, and have the best of both!

For guys, it’s an easy choice — go with a tux. A classic black and white look in a slimmer fit with a bowtie is right on trend this spring.

ST: If you were going to prom this year, what would you wear?
EW: Haha, oh to be young again. There are so many more options now than there were 10 years ago. I’d probably do a fabulous long dress in a bold colour with cut-out or sheer paneled details a-la-Rihanna.

ST: What did you wear to prom?
EW: I actually designed my own dress; picked out the fabrics, drew a sketch, and sat down with my cousin (who used to design and teach at Richard Robinson) to create something unique and special to me. Recently, I’ve gone back and looked at pictures, and I gotta say I still love the dress I wore to prom.

ST:When you think back to your own prom experience, what would you do differently if you had the chance?

On Delaney: Le Chateau dress $150, Le Chateau earrings $9.95, The Shoe Company pumps $79.99; on Caroline: Poised Terani Couture $405, Call it Spring sandals $50, Le Chateau earrings $22. Click on photo for more images. Photo by Eric Watters.

EW: I honestly don’t think I’d do anything different. My friends and I had such a wonderful time.  We all split costs to pitch in for a limo, my girlfriends came over beforehand and we did each other’s makeup and nails, so we really had the full prom experience, without spending a crazy amount of money.

ST: How do you think prom has changed over the years? Why?
EW: Prom has gotten a little bit out of control in terms of spending; some people take it as seriously as their wedding day! It’s such an exciting time of year for teens and can easily get off track of how much money is being spent. That’s why it’s so important for parents to take this opportunity to sit down with their kids and discuss money management. After prom and graduation, teens are going to either be heading off to college or university and the workforce, where they’ll have to make big decisions on their spending; prom is the perfect time for parents to discuss and instill valuable budgeting lessons on their children.

ST: If you were going to splurge on one part of the prom experience, what would it be?

On Delaney: Envied "supertrash" dress $147, Marshall's pumps $69.99, Ardene earrings $7.50, Marshall's clutch $39.99; on Caroline: Poised dress $257.50, Call It Spring sandals $50, Le Chateau earrings $22. Click on photo for more images. Photo by Eric Watters.

EW: I would say your splurge should be the dress (or in a rental tux for guys). But splurging doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money. It’s all about what budget you’re working with. That’s why the Plan’it Prom app is so great — it keeps you on track and monitors your spending. And you can sync it with your Facebook and take pics of the dresses you want to get — that way you’ll know for sure someone else won’t be wearing the same one!

The event really is only one day, and it goes quickly – but pictures and memories? You’ll have those forever and you want to make sure you felt confident, beautiful (or handsome) and had a great time.
All photos by Eric Watters. All styling by Erica Wark. Thanks to models Delaney and Caroline Holley.

The post SHOP TALK: The Prom Edition with Erica Wark appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

Last week, we brought you news of retail changes in the trendy shopping districts of Westboro/Wellington West. This week, we turn our eyes to the ByWard Market. On the tony strip of Sussex Drive, any murmurings of change generally involve speculation of how the National Capital Commission, being the landlord for many of these storefronts, might have played a role.  Us, we aren’t even going to speculate! Sometimes we ask interview subjects about the reasons for closing or the ins and out of their lease agreements. But no one wants to talk about the NCC. Any anyway, there’s enough to talk about this spring, and many new spaces to explore.

Mellow par Melissa Bolduc closed earlier this year. Photo by Sarah Fischer.

Mellow closes
457 Sussex Dr.
We spoke with the Montreal-based designer behind this unique line last summer. Since then, they have closed shop. (Insert speculative gossip.)  Apparently, they are looking for another location in Ottawa because they were having such success. We loved what they did with the Sussex space — let’s hope they bring their minimalist-industrial style to another storefront soon.

Stunning opens
6 York St.
Mandy Gosewich, former manager of Michael Kors in the Rideau Centre, is opening Stunning, a shop for “accessories, and then some.” We hear May 22 is the opening date. Mandy comes from a long line of retailers, and has contributed to the development of a couple other local boutiques in the past year. So far she’s planning on bringing in Sibilia from Buenos Aries, By Boe from New York, Rita D from Toronto, and Charlotte Hosten from Montreal.

Renee Levesque relocates
From 1282A Wellington St. W. and 24 Murray St. to 419 Sussex Dr.
Earlier this year we wrote about the closure of not one, but two RL stores — and Renée’s vision for her new location. I guess the months-long closure was worth it, because she found an outstanding space in the address formerly occupied by Nicholas Hoare (in case you missed it, the bookseller claimed the NCC raised the rent 72% and wrote “good riddance to bad rubbish,” in an e-mail to the National Post). ST popped in this week, and found an all-white interior, with plenty of colourful jewellery, clothing, and art, as well as teas and housewares and an atelier.

Renée Levesque opened her new store/atelier last week. Photo by Sarah Fischer.

Stacaro closes
700 Sussex Dr.
What will go into this big space? So far the west side of Sussex doesn’t get too much action. At this time One Tooth is subletting space from Armen, but it’s fun to think what a major upscale retailer could do for the area. Maybe Ralph Lauren?

Modern Shop relocates
541 Susex Dr.
For the past ten years this popular home décor store helped build Old Ottawa South into the interior design mecca it is today. But Christine Shaikin is retiring from Justine’s — after 20 years! Her son Michael, the owner of Modern Shop, will move his modern furniture, lights, and accessories to this old stone building. (If you think the mix of old and new is strange, check out what neighbours McMillan have done with their space.)

Milk relocates
From 234 Dalhousie St. to 45 William St.
Their former location anchored the Dalhousie shopping district and beckoned those looking for an alternative to mall shopping off the beaten path. It closed at the end of February, but the new space isn’t too far away. And their social media indicates they’re getting along splendidly with new neighbours.

The post SHOP TALK: Sussex shuffle and other ByWard Market changes appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

Photo by Sarah Fischer

Never mind the huge condo developments and the foodie hotspots. There’s also a wave of new retail going into the ‘hoods of Wellington West and Westboro. Every time we cruise this bustling strip, there are more comings-and-goings to note. Herewith, our observations, musings, wishes, and fears.

Slaysh relocates
From 775 Bank St. to 1282-A Wellington St. W.
This move strikes us as a bit of an ill-fit; the Glebe seemed such a perfect loction for this store that sells trendy gear for the cottage-and-country-club set. That said, lately we’re hearing more young professionals talking about Slaysh, so maybe it’s becoming a source for the work hard/play hard types. (Watch ST next week for news about the former tenant, Renee Levesque)

Red Velvet closes
1243 Wellington St. W.
We never saw too much action in this place, so no real surprise here. Though they had some interesting Eurpoean lines (e.g., Dekker, Ted Baker), staff were often kind of ambivalent. Elgin had a different vibe — we wish them all the best! (Hey, shopping after drinks can be fun! Dangerous, but fun.)

Allegro openings
1283 Wellington St. W. and 1243 Wellington St. W.
Two stores — one street? Daring for a woman whose ByWard Market location burned down a few years back. But we have had great luck at the vintage shop near Holland. The other location carries the same great clothing, bags, jewellery, and hats that can be found at the downtown store.

This block of Richmond see the most change, with Norml, Manhattan Marque, and The Cupcake Lounge opening second locations. Photo by Sarah Fischer.

Manhattan Marque opening
Second location at 322 Richmond Rd.
This is the nexus of change. MM goes into the space formerly occupied by Valberg Imaging, and right beside the soon-to-open second location of Cupcake Lounge. (Remember ladies: fitting rooms first, cupcakes second!) We hear that this boutique will cater more to a younger demographic. Maybe they will pick up where Red Velvet left off?

Norml opening
New location at 318 Richmond Rd.
Also in the hub of a busy retail block, there’s some confusing signage here: at first glance, it looks like this Ottawa company tried to open a special women’s boutique. On closer inspection, it’s the space on the second floor that now for lease. Still, their website only lists their downtown location (184 Rideau St.). What does the future hold? (Oh, and while we’re talking about their website, it’s beautiful and functional —like a ShopBop for men and other lovers of streetstyle.)

Efemer closes
1237 Wellington St. W.
This cute jewelry store didn’t last long. We see their website lists a new on-line store. Hard to imagine how they will offer “listening, advice, satisfaction” through the intimacy of the Internet — and the virtual store isn’t even working.

Vanilla opening
Second location at 279 Richmond Rd.
The Elgin store always has stunning window displays, and it seems like they know their market. It appears they are enjoying some success — it’s been one year since they opened a second location. While the youngsters spin their wheels on Instagram/Twitter/etc., this stalwart is like the reliable (and fashionable) tortoise — no website, but their Facebook page reveals a committed following.

So what’s next?
We noticed that Heather’s, a consignment store at 401 Richmond Rd., is still looking for new tenants, as is Louise’s Belgian Chocolates (those sweets being so good that clients will drive to Bell’s Corners). What does this bustling ‘hood need? We’re wishing for a funky shoe store — certainly Ottawa can support a Fluevog boutique? C’mon, Toronto has one!

The post SHOP TALK: Retail rejig in Wellie West, Westboro appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

Keen SHOP TALK readers who also frequent craft fairs might already be hip to the fact that ST’s own Sarah Fischer is the force behind Sarah’s Card Company, a small gift card business featuring original nature-inspired photography. This week, Sarah brings her unique insight as a craft-show-hopping entrepreneur to the discussion as we get to know the Tulip Festival‘s new initiative BULB.

Tulips galore! Sarah's Card Company sells cards featuring her own nature-inspired photography.

The Big Urban Living Boutique will showcase over twenty artists, ranging from fashion designers to photographers, soap makers to jewellers. Taking place over two Saturdays (May 4 and 11), Sarah notes that BULB’s location at City Hall (aka Tulip Plaza) guarantees a solid stream of shoppers.

“Plus, it’s always nice when new events pop up in the city, especially ones that are a part of such a historical Ottawa festival like the annual Tulip Festival. It is such a great fit for Sarah’s Card Company and a great way for Ottawans and visitors to our beautiful city to take a part of the festival home with them.”

~ Sarah Fischer, Sarah’s Card Company

Linda Hamilton studies tulips closely in order to create her paper reproductions.

“I always love the tulip festival, and I thought it would be a great fit with my paper flowers. I have been painting with watercolours for years and recently my paintings have become more and more three dimensional. I started making giant paper flowers a few years ago and really enjoyed the process of looking at flowers in minute detail and trying to figure out how to reproduce them exactly.”

~ Linda Hamilton, Daydream Flowers

“Many of my jewellery pieces are inspired by nature because being outdoors makes me happy! I am so honoured as a Canadian and so lucky to not only live here in scenic Ottawa but to also have the opportunity to participate in a National Festival.”

~ Marianna Palazzolo, Castellammare Designs

Castellammare earrings made of lucite and glass beads.

Supayana separates are perfect for tip-toeing through the tulips. Photo by Manon Parent

And while they are not tulips, we simply love the flower prints in Supayana‘s Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Turns out, Yana Gorbulsky is an avid gardener, and her appearance at BULB will also be her first trip to the Tulip Festival. We think this outfit is perfect for strolling the city and taking in the tulips!

The post THE INSIDER: Sarah Fischer and other flower fans on BULB, the new artist market at Tulip Fest appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

This week at alt-runway show Fashion Art Toronto, Ottawa native Rania Abdulla launches her menswear line Pairing Paisleys by The Wardobe Stylist. That’s right, menswear! At SHOP TALK we have always applauded stand-out mens fashion, so were excited to hear that Rania was striking out into what can be a void of blacks, blues, and bow-ties. And the timing is excellent: as period dramas recall dandy dressers and the slim-fit trousers continue to dominate the runways, menswear is gaining traction.

Indeed, with the launch of Pairing Paisleys, Rania calls for gentleman to make a comeback, offering them baroque blazers, fitted trousers, dress shirts, capes, and bold paisley prints. Here, we talk to the designer about the line.

Rania Abdulla

SHOP TALK: Why a menswear a collection?
Rania Abdulla: Why not? Womenswear is so saturated, but when it comes to menswear there isn’t as much to choose from. I feel men have been left out because women are the bigger spenders, but men need to dress too, and dress well.

ST: Will we be able to buy the collection in Ottawa?
RA: For the time-being, the collection will only be available for purchase in NYC, Miami, and L.A. for wholesale orders. Hopefully some Ottawa boutiques will see the collection and want to house it in their locations.

ST: Can you describe the men that you imagine will wear Pairing Paisleys?
RA:I designed the collection for the urban male aged 18-45 years old. The Pairing Paisleys man can be a university student or post-grad, a young professional or a man already established in his career. He can be single, on the market, taken or married … with or without children. It’s for your average male that likes to be trendy, yet classic, and well-groomed.

Pairing Paisleys includes fitted trousers — but not lapdogs. Photo by Mitch Lenet.

ST: Who is your favourite menswear designer?
RA: Scotch and Soda

ST: Who is your favourite celebrity stylist?
RA: Don’t have one … but I love the costume designers of Boardwalk Empire, Downtown Abbey and Gossip Girl‘s Chuck Bass!

ST: Are you still styling while you get more into designing menswear? Can you tell us about your current clients?
RA: For the time being, I’ve put styling on hold until FAT is over, then I’ll jump back into it. Some of my clients are Pennington’s, Canada Post, Spyglass Photo, Billings Bridge, and the NHL.

The post THE Q&A: Rania Abdulla’s menswear line offers classic (and colourful!) options for the metro male appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

Three unique trends were recently identified in FASHION Magazine’s spring accessories report: see-through plastic inserts, bright python prints, and woven natural fibres in a range of colours. While clutches are cool and bangles a bold way to add bite to an outfit, let’s face it, shoes are where it’s at. Herewith, our take on these three trends — and where you can step into some of this style right here in Ottawa.

Stuart Weitzman, $195. Available at Holt Renfrew.

Clear panels: We’ll pass on this whacky look. FASHION calls it a way to “lend lightness to polished metallics and patent leathers” but it seems clunky and confusing to us. Plus it reminds us of the coveted pair from the infamous “Shoes” vid. Or maybe we are biased because there is still so much grit on O-town streets to even consider such slick kicks. But there’s no denying that the Stella McCartney wedge featured is a winner.

In town: Stuart Weitzman has a similar style, and in nude this shoe would be both versatile and trendy, so a wise choice for the savvy shoe-aholic. $195, Holt Renfrew.

Python prints: Now here is a fun way to add colour and texture in one on-trend item. We love the details and unique lines on the Aperlai heels. Studs, two-tone … this shoes says a lot. Then again, the Manolo Blahniks prove that one can go too far. Love all the colours, but not digging the points that look like shark’s teeth. Is it going to attack?

In town: you can dip your tows into the python + colour trend without going overboard (and risk that shark attack). This Jessica Simpson sandal features a sneaky-sexy line of turquoise, and a nice neutral brown strap. $120, Hudson’s Bay – Bayshore.

Jessica Simpson, $120. Available at Hudson's Bay – Bayshore.

Natural fibres: We love the updates on this well-established summer style. Of course, everyone is gaga for boho right now, what with Coachella mandating crop tops and cutoffs, but Canadians have always liked their au naturel looks. So perfect for drinks on the deck. We’re not loving the chunky heel that Vince Camuto is sporting, and the different colour fibres make it look a bit cheap. But that Marvin K wedge is a classic.

In town: The patent peeptoe LK Bennett Estela wedge hits all the right notes: feminine, modern, and versatile. $325, Holt Renfrew.

The post TREND WATCHING: Our take on see-through Oxfords, Technicolour pythons, and other spring shoes appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

This year, Ottawa-based clothing line Kaliyana celebrates 25 years of business — and 20 years at their Sussex location. It’s an amazing feat, really, considering the fact that the line isn’t exactly a crowd-pleaser. With it’s sweeping silhouettes, alternative fabrics, and asymmetrical lines, Kaliyana bucks trends and offers a modern, confident look for progressive women.

The Spring 2013 line from Kaliyana features fresh greens — and sleek, modern lines.

The name is a derivative of the designer’s, Jana Kalous. Switched around and shortened, it reflects the modular concept and the fact that most pieces can be worn together — but the sky is the limit when it comes to styling. Most of all, Kaliyana pieces are comfortable, original, and “all things I would want to wear myself,” says Jana.

In fact, the originality of the line is what Jana attributes to its long-standing appeal. “I’m offering something people can’t get anywhere else,” she says, “the uniqueness of our design has led to a loyal following.” When pushed to describe what makes Kaliyana so different, Jana uses one word: effortlessness.

“It makes everyone feel good when they wear it. It’s an easy makeover, an instant transformation.”

Over the years she has stayed true to her mantra of comfort and style. However, these days she spends more time watching European styles than those of Japan, where she first drew her inspiration.

And this spring she is, for apparently the first time, on-trend with her choice of emerald green. “It just turns out to be a really hot colour,” Jana says, with some trepidation. While most designers would be over the moon to have chosen one of the season’s choice colours, she explains that “sometimes people come to us for colours that they can’t find elsewhere.” (And for those people, there are hits of orange and magenta in the Spring 2013 line.)

Jana Kalous has been selling avant-garde women's clothing on Sussex Drive for 20 years.

As for the future, Jana hopes for at least 10 more years, and is hoping to find someone new to takeover the business. But despite the success of online sales, she is staying put on Sussex.

“Of course, we didn’t love that construction, but it’s a high profile location. People who have heard of us like the destination location.”

Plus, part of the Kaliyana motto is ‘love it or leave it’, which means no returns on online purchases. We are lucky to have Kaliyana in Ottawa — stop by sometime, you might just love it.

Kaliyana, 515 Sussex Dr. 613-562-3676. 

The post SHOP TALK: Kaliyana marks 25 years. An interview with designer Jana Kalous appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

Before Erica Wark came over for our much-anticipated closet-cleaning session, I did a little pre-cleaning. I tossed out most of my maternity clothes and I hung garments by category. I thought I was pretty thorough. I was wrong.

Like most mothers who return to work after maternity leave, I’m scared stiff of leaving my daughter in the care of someone else. But I love my job at Ottawa Mag, and part of me misses getting dressed for the office everyday. Not the part between my belly button and my knees; that part would love to stay wrapped in tights and long tanks. But alas, it doesn’t work that way, and if I am going back with a slightly different bod, I am going back in style!

This meant my wardrobe needed a makeover, which meant calling on my buddy — and rising star of the Canadian fashion scene — Erica Wark. 

The clothes I kept, organized by colour and sleeve length, so that I see more — and more easily put together outfits.

After a requisite glass of wine, we turned our attention to the task at hand. With Sarah Fischer perched on the bed, poised to take notes, Erica promptly took everything out again. The hangers (the wrong ones, apparently!) were hung willy-nilly and, besides, that to-the-curb pile was about to get much bigger…

As part of her job as a freelance fashion consultant, Erica is available for private wardrobe consultations. Usually, it’s a three-step process: the in-house visit, which looks a lot like the session we had but is more complete (“I actually clean the closet”); the shopping trip, which pays off in spades because of Erica’s wealth of knowledge when it comes to local markets; and the last ‘wardrobing’ visit, during which she helps her clients put it all together.

She is firm but kind, resolute but considerate. White clothing doesn’t stay white for long, she explains. “I don’t care what kind of deodorant you use.” One time she asks me to try something on, but most of the time we nodded in agreement: no, I haven’t worn that in years. Yes, I can do better.

Erica also knows clothing holds memories, but talked me out of holding onto items (well, most items) simply for their nostalgic appeal.

We developed a list: a leather belt; an LBD (to replace a threadbare fave); an oversize jacket; cardigans; black skinny pants; fashion jewellery; and a lot of tops and blouses (Fischer votes for prints and brights).

I am new to Pinterest! Please help me in my quest for back-to-work style via Pinterest. pinterest.com/shoptalk

By the time Erica leaves, I’m even more excited about returning to work. Life has changed a lot in the past year — and so has my body. I celebrate my little girl everyday, and maybe it’s time to mark this special time with an updated style.

HELP! We’ve made a special board on our Pinterest page for this ongoing wardrobe mission. Check it out, we’d love to hear your feedback! In the spring (hopefully after a nice tax refund), we’ll meet up with Erica again for a shopping trip to mark my girl’s first birthday

The post SHOP TALK: Canadian fashion scene rising star Erica Wark runs a closet-cleaning session appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

This week, SHOP TALK welcomes guest blogger Malorie Bertrand, editor of Ef Magazine.

When I moved to Ottawa five years ago, I explored the city’s somewhat hidden fashion community, attended Ottawa Fashion Week, and became well-acquainted with shopping districts like Dalhousie Street and Wellington West. To me, the most important aspect of the city’s fashion scene is its budding eco-fashion industry. With EF Magazine, an online publication that promotes sustainable fashion and beauty, I get to showcase some great environmentally friendly designers, stylists, and shops.

Steve Bezanson Photography

So what is sustainable fashion, exactly? Sustainable fashion refers to a part of the fashion industry that incorporates environmental, social, and ethical practices. From heavy-weights such as John Patrick Organic and Stella McCartney to local artists like Duffield Design and N-Product, sustainable fashion is not a separate industry, but rather a growing sector. Sustainable fashion means shopping second hand, consigning from your closet, and buying from shops that bring in environmentally-friendly labels (here in Ottawa we have Green Tree Eco Fashion, terra20, Victoire, and Flock/Workshop).

Indeed, there are so many interpretations of sustainable fashion that the sector continues to evolve, showing the world that eco-fashion isn’t just about hemp skirts and recyclable packaging. Bloggers are a big part of this evolution. They spread the word, share images, and provide styling tips. EF Magazine wouldn’t be where it is without them!

Here are a few of my favourites, from Ottawa and beyond.

ourMode: A friend of mine recently told me about this his-and-hers style blog run by an adorable couple with a true love for fashion. They regularly post pictures of their impeccably styled outfits — and they’re big fans of second-hand. This is your go-to blog for inspiration when your closet isn’t giving you any good ideas.

Chameleonic: Justyna Baraniecki is not your average fashion blogger. She’s expanded her first blog, chichichic, which featured daily posts of her fab vintage outfits, into Chameleonic, a more robust site that includes gorgeous pictures from her latest styling projects with local photographer Joel Bedford.

Emily Brown is the voice behind the blog Tinfoil Tiaras

Tinfoil Tiaras: Style maven Emily Brown, is a staple in Ottawa’s fashion community. Emily has a style that is all her own and isn’t afraid of colour and accessories. She works for Dress for Success, a wonderful organization that supplies underprivileged women with a week’s worth of office-appropriate clothing. All of the clothing is donated by businesses and individuals — clothing recycling at its best!

Kaight: This blog is the product of an independent eco-fashion boutique in New York City of the same name. Kaight works hard to provide consumers with clothing and accessories that are innovative in design, ethically produced, and eco-friendly in nature. It is a rich source from the centre of fashion in the United States.

Magnifeco: This site offers great information on up-and-coming eco-designers and new collections from around the world.

Just as more and more people are embracing organic food, hybrid cars, and natural beauty products, many are realizing that they can make positive changes with their clothing too. It may be run by people who are considered self-involved eccentrics, but it’s a serious industry with a lot of influence on society and the environment.

It’s also one of the most innovative industries, which tells me it is the most well-equipped to adapt new practices and make radical changes. This is an exciting time in fashion and I’m thrilled to be in the thick of it. Stay tuned for more from Ottawa’s emerging eco-fashion scene.

The post SHOP TALK: Recommending 5 fashion blogs for the ethical aesthete appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.

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

At SHOP TALK, we’re always keeping an eye out for beautiful things — all the better if said products are made locally and support the chasing of a creative dream.

Sometimes this means connecting with vendors at craft sales; other times, it means watching the changing ownership of retail real estate. Lately, we’ve been seeing these two aspects come together as local crafters put down stakes and open their doors at permanent retail locations.

The Tin Barn Market during one of its pop-up shops last year. Desa Photography.

Later this month (March 16 to be specific), Tin Barn Market will open its doors in Almonte. As the name suggests, the store started out in 2011 as a flea market in a tin barn.

It was the brain child of Errin Stone, whose career in retail communications included a vision for her own smaller, independent shop featuring re-used and re-purposed goods.

It soon garnered the attention of Vicki Veenstra, a local set designer and artist who herself harboured a certain “store fantasy.” The two quickly became partners, hosting three pop-up shops before eventually deciding to set up a permanent store. The Almonte location was a given, as both reside in the area and the town itself has a youthful, creative energy.

Meanwhile, over on York Street, A Curious Shop is thriving. Since October 5, Fiona Sant and Michelle Potter have been selling work by independent artists out of this wee boutique. Each artists in their own right, the two were already promoting original art via A Curious Collective. After many tours with music festivals, weekend craft fairs, and other events that brought crafty types together, an opening in the perfect location (between funky Adorit and brilliant Kania) spurred the two to strike out into the retail frontier.

Fiona, left, and Michelle, right, at the York Street store.

“Owning a shop was always part of our long-term plan, even though we never really discussed it. This past summer, after sweltering days and rainy nights at Jazzfest, we first started to seriously entertain the thought of opening a permanent boutique,” says Michelle,  who has has lived, worked, and played in the Byward Market for years. “In September, a retail opportunity presented itself to us out of the blue. And we pounced on it.”

Indeed, the York strip reminds us a bit of the heritage main street that drew Errin and Vicki to their shop fantasy. In both cases, it seems the location drove the decision to take the retail plunge.

(The Tin Barn ladies rave about their proximity to the town bakery and the fact that “people swing in just to say hi”.) Of course, location is always a factor, but something tells us there’s something more going on: that in the folksy industry of handmade goods, shopping really is about finding a place in which shopkeeper and customer alike feel at home.

The post SHOP TALK: Profiling two sets of crafty duos — with retail stores in ByWard Market and Almonte appeared first on Ottawa Magazine.