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EVENT REVIEW: Five things we saw at Ottawa Fashion Week

A favourite from the Jana Hanzel/Emilia Torabi collection. Photo by Sarah Fischer

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

Let’s start this post off with a disclaimer: we don’t attempt to ‘cover’ OFW. Covering means attending all the pre- and post-events, all runway shows, and having a decent base of WordPress skills to translate our observations into something comprehensive and pretty that accurately reflects what we took in. We have no such skills, and we don’t have the time (on top of managing multiple print projects and maintaining this site) nor the expense budget to camp out at the Westin! (One of us has a baby bump to keep fueled with fatty nutritious food, after all.)

But we can offer our opinions on what we did see. For one thing, it was fun! The event is definitely becoming a social event, with fewer people looking anxious or bored and more attendees using OFW to mix and network, dress to impress, and get involved. There was a palpable buzz surrounding the crowds of people hanging between shows. A great sign.

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GREAT IDEA: Rent Frock Repeat offers practical (and pretty!) solutions to wardrobe dilemmas

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

All the buzz in the lead-up to Ottawa Fashion Week is making us envious of those with walk-in closets full of designer duds. (Do those people worry about what to wear, or is it just a matter of taking a stroll through their personal collection and choosing something that strikes their fancy?) Indeed, we’ve started to wonder what to wear to the biannual showcase that is OFW. We’re thinking of taking a casual approach, and yet we can’t help but envy those that put together a killer ensemble and stand out in the crowd.

Mark & James violet one-shoulder minidress by Badgley Mischka. Retails for $345, rents for $90, sizes XS - L.

All these wardrobe woes (call them #firstworldproblems) made us remember a unique operation based out of Toronto. The gals at Rent Frock Repeat (RfR) seem to have a real handle on this mindset: the need to appear stylish and trend-savvy at important events, the realities of a clothing budget and closet space, and the availability of designer clothes — plus the time it takes to track down the right dress!

While we didn’t have time to rent-a-frock for this weekend’s OFW shows, we wanted to get the lowdown … and start planning for the next big event. In this week’s installment of SHOP TALK, we chat with RfR’s Kristy Wieber about what’s hot right now, how the business works, and what’s in her closet.

Where do you go to add new pieces to the collection?
We buy new, fresh off the runway, directly from the designer. We’re heading to NYC next week to buy for Fall 2012, but we also buy directly from Canadian designers as well.

What are your most popular dresses right now?
Right now, due to the gala/fundraiser season, we see a lot of floor-length gowns being rented for black-tie events.  It just makes so much sense to rent a gown for a charity fundraiser and use the money you saved on the dress and put it towards the charity.  Our motto is “Rent the dress, donate the rest!”

After renting a dress and falling in love with it, can I buy it?
No and trust us, our customers fall in love with so many of the dresses that they can’t wait for their next event to try out a different one.  RfR lets you experiment with fashion without the buyer’s remorse. Think of us as your virtual online closet — not only do we save you money, but closet space as well.

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STORE PROFILE: L’Occitane for Valentine’s Day

The L'Occitane store at the Rideau centre is sleek, luxurious — and stocked with gift-worthy products. Photo by David Kawai.

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

At first glance, it may seem an odd choice for Valentine’s Day. Aren’t we supposed to show our love with chocolate and flowers and sappy red cards?

Maybe it’s the effects of pregnancy — sensitive skin, an adversity to chocolate, and a nesting instinct that drives me to clear the house of clutter — but what I’m craving are useful items that make me feel comfy. (Plus my hubby is a gardener. Please no more plants!)

A few months ago, I picked up a tub of L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream, and I have been thoroughly loving the after-shower belly application. Though I first bought it in a vain attempt to avoid stretch marks, these days it’s just a good excuse to feel pampered, gaze down at my belly, and slow down in the morning. (Though not visible yet, I now accept stretch marks as one of motherhood’s unavoidable side effects — maybe even a badge of honour!)

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MODEL WATCH: Local model Veronica L. wins MIM contract, looks to OFW casting call

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

Every day we seem to receive another announcement about a casting call or new up-and-coming model in the area. We’re not sure if it’s because of the steady growth of Ottawa Fashion Week or the skyrocketing success of models like Herieth Paul — either way, we figured it was time to poke our nose into the world of modeling and take the pulse on the local scene.

Veronica L. recently won a full modeling contract with local agency MIM. Photo courtesy MIM.

This week, we tracked down the latest name making headlines: Veronica L. She’s just 13 years old, but has just landed a free modeling contract with Models International Management (MIM). At 5’11″, she easily surpasses the industry standard of 5’8″ and sports an athletic frame honed from years practicing synchonized swimming and gymnastics.

While MIM spokesperson Jessica D’Angelo describes Veronica as humble, she made no mistake about her talent:

“In front of the camera, Veronica had a serious fire about her,” says D’Angelo. “She was very shy, but so open to putting herself out there.”

Veronica beat out over 60 people — men and women, kids and teens — at the event, held at Bayshore Shopping Centre.

She describes the event as fun and “not stressful at all.” She found out about the contest through her friend, Megan W., who currently models with MIM — plus her mother has some modeling experience, so maybe it runs in the family!

Next up for Veronica: the Ottawa Fashion Week casting call.

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SHOP TALK: Erica Wark offers fur vest styling tips

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

Erica pairs bright red cropped pants with a delicate, neutral blouse, and adds another pop of colour with her pumps. Photo by Cindy Orti

Sarah came across a beautiful faux fur vest while on vacation over Christmas — as soon as she put it on at the store, she was smitten. But also a bit confused.

“I have been wearing it around the house because I instantly feel more confident and sexy in my new statement piece. But, the more I thought about it I was at a loss for what to wear under it!”

Sarah called up our friend, stylist Erica Wark, for some advice — Erica is a big fan of faux fur, as you can see on her website.

“Faux fur is a great way to update any look,” says Erica. “Layering is such an important tool when it comes to the winter, so why not do it all while adding a luxurious feel to your outfit!”

She offered the following rules of thumb when putting together an outfit with a fur vest:

“If you’re adding faux fur, always make sure the items underneath are streamlined or of a softer texture. Otherwise you’ll be adding extra bulk to the body, and nobody wants that.”

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OPENING: David’s Bridal

The peplum isn't just for the runway, as seen in this White by Vera Wang gown. Photo courtesy David's Bridal.

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

Even if you’re not in the market for a wedding gown, the news that U.S. retailer David’s Bridal is opening a location in Ottawa is pretty big. After all, this means more affordable cocktail dresses and sparkly shoes — not to mention the fact that Montreal shoppers could be coming this way for a change!

The 8,000 sq. ft. store, which opens tomorrow at Trainyards, is the fourth to open in Canada, will be the exclusive source for White by Vera Wang, a line that offers VW signature style at prices that range from $600 to $1,600. (And those are higher price points than the other collections at David’s; prices for Galina Signature, Oleg Cassini, and others start at $300.)

If you are hearing wedding bells, though, then the opening has the potential to be a game-changer in terms of planning.

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GUEST POST: D e g a i n e brings winter style inspiration from London, Barcelona

This week, Shop Talk welcomes guest blogger Farah Ragheb, aka D e g a i n e, who shares images and style advice from her jet-setting life.

Last year I left O-town behind and moved to Spain to indulge in the carefree life of the Mediterranean. (More than anything I was looking forward to enjoying a different way of life — one that didn’t include a brutal winter!) After a year of living in Barcelona and travelling across Europe (especially London), my eyes were opened to the different looks that thrived in various world class cities. I saw how the atmosphere of a city reflects the style of its residents. Plus, having seen nothing but Canadian winters, I was interested to see how other cultures dressed for the colder season.

Guest blogger Farah Ragheb interprets Barcelona style with a sweater from Aritzia, and Forever 21 shorts. Belt and tank from Urban Outfitters. Boots from Barcelona Boutique.

Barcelona has a beach city vibe, one that was both vibrant and laid-back. The style on the streets always reflected this feeling: basically a mix of rocker chic and cool, casual comfort. Studded boots, oversized knits, denims, layers of different pieces, leather jackets, harem pants, and vibrant hints of color were all regulars in BCN. I used what I saw on the streets of Barcelona as inspiration to create a look that incorporated this style and my personality.

London on the other hand, had a whole different vibe. To sit by and people-watch was interesting because so many styles are so authentic and different. Given this vibrant variety, it only makes sense that London has recently been named the fashion capital of the world (over longstanding New York City).

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IN TRANSITION: Senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne adjusts to baby bump style

I couldn’t hide it any longer: I was sporting a baby bump and my clothing had to adapt in a serious way.

Yes, a belly band worked for awhile to keep the jeans in rotation, and maternity tights with high-waisted dresses are an option. But after too many hectic mornings changing outfits and a few wardrobe malfunctions, combined with winter weather, I realized a major style overhaul was required. I needed to toss out old style rules to make way for new wardrobe staples; I had to trade my  heels for ballet flats and boots — the baby inside called for comfort (and safety).

At week 23, the baby is the size of a papaya. Try hiding that in a sleek sheath dress!

I decided it was time to head to AMH Style. Not only does my pocketbook prevent me from buying an entire closet full of maternity-specific clothing, but last time I visited for a chat with owner Alison Hughes she was aglow with style — and bouncing a newborn on her arm. “It’s all smoke and mirrors,” she said that day.

I had already made a run for the border to Target, which has a pretty decent selection of maternity clothing. I picked up some tops and tights — as well as some great advice from a pal who has already been there: don’t invest in maternity clothes. “You’re never going to wear those clothes again.”

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SHOP TALK: Peek-a-boo Natural Toys & Accessories

Peek-a-boo Natural Toys & Accessories. Photo by David Kawai.

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

If you have little ones on your Christmas list, you know the feeling of wanting to buy that special present, the one that will remain a treasure for years to come. The one that will be passed down through the generations and be known by all family members by an adorable nickname.

And if those little ones have parents concerned about off-gassing and VOCs you might find yourself in an (even more) stressed state out this time of year.

Enter Peek-a-boo Natural Toys & Accessories, a Hintonburg boutique that sells organic, chemical-free, eco-friendly toys that are not only modern but can be enjoyed for generations to come. Brands include Nanchen, a line of dolls made from 100 percent wool from organically raised sheep, and Anne-Claire Petit, a company that directs income to the women who create the hand-crocheted toys in developing countries. Older children (and their DIY-type parents) will love the build-your-own-toy kits.

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PREVIEW: What’s to come in Shop Talk for 2012

Sarah Fischer sends her best wishes from Florida's Naples Beach!

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

Attention shoppers! Just a quick note to say Happy New Year — and to let you know that the Shop Talk gals are still on the scene, searching out trends and deals and new sources of inspiration.

Yes, we have enjoyed some time away from the office. In December, Dayanti took off to California where she enjoyed concerts, parties, and whole lot of lazing about with family and friends. (One last hurrah before the baby bump starts slowing her down!) Sarah is currently in Florida, having a great time in the sunny south. For New Year’s Eve she watched a gorgeous sunset, followed by a huge fireworks display at Naples Beach.

Here’s a preview of what’s to come on Shop Talk in 2012:

  • Event reviews. We already have two of the big events of the year penciled into our dayplanners. Expect runway reports and plenty of industry gossip.

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