Blubird Hearts Partyskirts

Follow Mary on Twitter: @marydotwu

If you know Blubird, you know that it is decadence and edge all in one brightly-lit store -- beautifully packaged Fresh cosmetics, open-backed Helmut Lang t-shirts. There isn't a more perfect place to host the spring launch of Partyskirts, the Vancouver-made miniskirt collection with a colour selection that rivals American Apparel.

Partyskirts was started by sisters Lauren and Mariel Armstrong. You can read the origin story on their website, or in a nutshell...

Lauren & Mariel: HORRORS! There are no miniskirts in our wardrobe!

Their mom: Fear not! I will make two adorable miniskirts for you!

Boutiques/fashionistas everywhere: OMG WHERE DID YOU GET THAT??

L & M: Our mom made it!

Everyone: TOTALLY JELLY.

Now that the Armstrong sisters have brought Partyskirts to the masses, the launch at Blubird drew in tons of stylish folks to admire, try on, and even buy a skirt or two of their own. As evidenced by the models and mannequins at the launch party, you can literally pair a Partyskirt with anything - cropped leather jackets, sweaters, tanks, t-shirts, floral jackets. 

With that kind of versatility, the $195 for a locally-made luxury item really does not seem that steep. Partyskirts are 100% silk (luxury!), and are specifically pleated so they poof out without a crinoline (fun!). The colours are gorgeous (ooh la la!), and with the right heels, the skirts create the illusion of legs for days. At least, that's the sense I got from all the ridiculously pretty models walking around in them. I'll just go back to stuffing my face with canapés, and dreaming of Partyskirts in oxblood.

Worth Coveting: Ora Leather Bags

Follow Emily on Twitter: @em_rossco

Nouvelle Nouvelle is one of my favourite boutiques so its not surprising Ora Leather Bags, another one of my local favourites, hosted their Spring 2013 launch a the little shop on Abbott St.

Keeping to classic lines, shapes, and materials, Ora Bags took the Spring launch as an opportunity to try some new things. Laser cutouts, fringe, and two-tone combos mix-up the line a little bit while still maintaining the sleek, minimalist look this one-woman bag crafter is known for.
 

All locally made, Ora Bags are handmade one by one and the quality and attention to detail is evident. The smooth buttery leather and slick suedes will make you swoon while coveting every piece from the modern briefcase and tonal totes right down to the tiniest crystal pouch and card holder.

Since browsing the collection after a silent auction, I literally haven’t stopped thinking about these bags and can’t wait to save up my pennies (can I still do that?) to finally have one – this new collection has furthered this obsession. Only eating ramen is normal, right?

Vancouver International Wine Festival 2013

Follow Mary on Twitter: @marydotwu

I love wine, and I freakin’ love a good, oaky, creamy Chardonnay. So it’s pretty much the perfect coincidence that my first Haus of Hybrid assignment is covering the Vancouver International Wine Festival, where they were featuring California Chardonnays. On top of that, the Festival’s new charitable partner is your favourite local Shakespeare festival (and my former employer), Bard on the Beach. YOU GUYS. It’s like I was born to attend this!

Even though the VIWF is the biggest wine festival on the continent and has a long history with humble beginnings, this is still my first time attending. Naturally, I did some research before hand and learned the basic tips:

1. Eat before you get there. Complimentary portion-controlled bread and cheese do not a dinner make. No, not even with ham slices.
2. This is a wine tasting, not a fancy pub crawl. Don’t be the drunk woman teetering around the Convention Centre. Look at your life, look at your choices!
3. Go visit the vendors at the tables with no crowds. They’re probably really excited to chat with you and answer questions, and less likely to spill wine on your hand because they’re trying to pour 6 tastings at once (looking at you, Signorello).
4. If you can snag a ticket for Thursday night, go for it. This is industry and media night, and word is they only sell to 75% capacity to allow more time for collectors and reviewers to chat with owners. Less crowds = less waiting = more tastings all around!

Another tip I read was to bookend your tastings with the feature Region, and try as many different countries in between to make the most out of this international showcase. Obviously, challenge accepted. Here are my highlights:

CALIFORNIA

Last summer, I took a semi-private wine tour through the Napa Valley, and we stopped at a bunch of smaller wineries. While my favourites from that time (Robert Biale, Cuvaison) weren’t at the Wine Festival, California’s feature region status dominated.

1. Cameron Hughes - Atlas Peak Chardonnay 2010 - $22.99

GET IT: If you like crisp yet complex wines, with slightly bitter aftertastes and vineyard names that sound like characters from HBO lawyer dramas.

SKIP IT: If, like me, you are after oaky, well-rounded, creamy Chardonnays.

2. Hess - Select Charonnay 2010 – $19.99

This is such a favourite of mine. I know you’re there to try new and exciting flavours but I could not resist the siren call of Hess.

GET IT: Um, do you love summer and sipping leisurely on a patio? You will love this. It’s my ideal Chardonnay – simultaneously refreshing, citrusy, and oaky. Amazing price point. It took me right back to eating oysters on the Joe Fortes patio last summer.

SKIP IT: If oak makes you want to barf? I seriously have no idea, to me this is perfection. If you are allergic to white wines then I guess you should probably avoid.

3. Signorello Estate - Vieilles Vignes Chardonnay 2010 - $59.99

Signorello was one of the most popular stations at the festival, and for good reason. They have exceptional wines, they were in the featured Region, AND they have ties in Vancouver (the family lives in Vancouver and divides their time between here and Napa). 

The Chardonnay was delicious. Again, creamy with hints of vanilla. The guy spilled some on my hand as he poured it though. It's okay guys, I licked it off. That's like $3 worth of wine there.

GET IT: If you are super serious about Chardonnays and want to spend twice as much as all your friends.

SKIP IT: If you're not super duper picky about your wine. Seriously, the Hess Chardonnay is SO EXCELLENT, and a fraction of the cost.

4. Signorello Estate - Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 - $97.99

Let's be real, probably the only time I'm going to get to taste wine this expensive. It was GORGEOUS. Dark and plummy, full tannins, so so good. At almost $100 though, it's an investment, though the guy did emphasize that you can drink it young (heh) OR let it age 10-15 years. 

GET IT: If you are throwing a dinner party with your new BFF Jennifer Lawrence and you need a little pre-dinner fancy wine with the awesome cheese plate she just picked up from Leo's personal charcuterie guy.

SKIP IT: If you do not hang out with famous people and do not need to throw down $100 for wine that's probably going to be consumed with Indian takeout anyway.

SOUTH AFRICA

Glen Carlou - Classic Chardonnay - $21.99

Did you know that Hess also owns Glen Carlou? That family, man.

GET IT: To complete your Hess obsession. I mean. If you want to surprise folks with a lovely, French-oaked Chardonnay from an unexpected region. The French oak means the creaminess is not as prominent, which is more balanced for some.

SKIP IT: If you can't find it. It's currently not available in BC liquor stores. Dang.

ARGENTINA

Amalaya Vino Blanco de Altura - Riesling/Torrontes - $14.99

GET IT: If you want to be pleasantly surprised by a Riesling blend. I normally steer clear of Rieslings, they're usually too sweet for my liking, but this was aromatic with green apple, crisp, and quite dry.

SKIP IT: If dry whites aren't your thing. 

SPAIN

J. GARCIA CARRIÓN - Viña Arnáiz Reserva 2007 - $25.99

GET IT: If you love Old World, almost jammy, super drinkable wines. I had it right after a plate of ham and cheese, and it was so tasty. The vineyard is in Ribera del Duero, one of Spain's major wine regions. Remind me to do a wine tour in Spain.

SKIP IT: At $25.99, the price point is a little steep for something that's so drinkable and not super complex. But, it's certainly crowd-pleasing.

NEW ZEALAND

There are other vineyards in New Zealand besides Oyster Bay?? Heck yes!

Stoneleigh - Sauvignon Blanc 2012 - $17.99

GET IT: If you love easy summer in a glass. This is super crisp, very citrusy, and all around refreshing. I actually tasted all four of the wines that Stoneleigh was sampling, and the wines increased in both price and complexity. The more expensive wines also sourced their grapes from a much more concentrated region. This one, being the cheapest and having the widest region of grape selection, was actually my favourite.

SKIP IT: If you're looking for something fuller, with more flavour notes. 

ITALY

Santa Margherita - Processo Superior Valdobbiadene - $21.99

GET IT: Do you love feeling like you're drinking the stars? Do you love a bubbly, dry, crisp, refreshing prosecco that's incredibly versatile? In the words of the lovely man representing Santa Margherita, "You can drink it as an apertif, with light food, or at 10 AM with a sandwich. I won't judge you." I tried real champagne later in the night. This was better.

SKIP IT: If bubblies don't do it for you. Or you hate celebrating. You jerk. 

At $95 per ticket, the VIWF is not exactly cheap. But, when you think about the average $10-$15 tasting prices at vineyards, plus the diversity of the regions and winemakers you are getting access to, it's not a bad price at all. Check it out when it comes around next year! 

Model Menswear: London Alexander

Follow Emily on Twitter: @em_rossco

"You mean this is a MALE fashion show?" asked the guy in line behind us. 

Though his disappointment at the lack of female models was apparent, Sarah and I, who often gravitate to the menswear section ourselves, were ready to see which pieces from the collection we could splice into our wardrobes.

London Alexander, a Vancouver-based designer who started his craft in Squamish, showcased his new collections at Fortune Sound Club on Saturday night. 

Packed with people anticipating another collection boasting his signature clean and basic menswear style, London Alexander's showcase featured his Spring/Summer 2013 and Fall/Winter 2013 collections. 

Incorporating classic cuts updated with fun prints, small details and bold accents, Alexander's collections delivered. These pieces would provide any guy a perfect wardrobe foundation with its basic shorts, pants, t's and shirts, with a few jackets and sweatsuit inspired pieces. I know I'd steal some of the super soft looking t-shirts and sweat shorts from an unexpecting guy, or maybe even buy some for myself. Though some of the colours and patterns seemed half a season behind, overall, what Alexander's collection lacked in innovation was made up for in tailoring. 

Images via Berkley Vopnfjord

Post-show, I don't know our friend from the line felt any less exasperated that he didn't get to see ladies on the runway, but I'm sure he was inspired to update his wardrobe with some new basics. 

Find out more about London Alexander's collection, including stockists, here. 

(Erin: London Alexander used to go under LRMA. You can read more and see more here.)

The Parker Project: From Winter into Summer 2013

Cities have industrial parks, technology parks, but did you know that Vancouver has a fashion park? Located on Parker Street in East Vancouver, The Parker Project houses the offices of some of your favourite fashion brands.

This past Friday we took a tour of The Parker Project to get a sneak peak of the clothes that will be hitting stores soon. With all of our friends talking about Sasquatch and Coachella lately, we had music festivals on the brain. So with that in mind, as we took our tour, it seemed like all of our favourite finds were also festival picks. Even the food was festival ready, with the Tacofino truck parked right outside (nom).

Follow Sarah on Twitter: @sarallin

My general rule of thumb for festivals is that at least one piece of denim must be worn at all times. Have a maxi dress? Add a denim jacket. Wearing a cute blouse? Obviously pair it with cutoffs. Or, just go all out and rock a summer version of the Canadian tuxedo.

I know most people think cutoffs and tank tops for festivals, but when the sun goes down you gotta bundle up (we learned that the hard way at Outside Lands last year). The mix of knit and leather on this Line Knitwear piece looks great and will keep you warm.

Lightweight pants are a must have item. When you’re lying on a blanket waiting for the next act to hit the stage, you’ll be glad you’re in pants and not a short skirt. Gypsy05 had lots of pants in awesome colourful prints. If you’re feeling a little less adventurous, Lifetime Collective had black pants that would make a great wardrobe staple.

Blee Inara had some great accessories with lots of influences from around the world. I was especially digging the evil eyes.

Quiksilver Women had a ton of good finds. My favourite was this tall ship dress.

Follow Emily on Twitter: @em_rossco

Festival dressing can be a bit tricky. You’ve really got to consider where the festival is taking place and other factors like how long you’ll actually have to be outside and what sort of surfaces you’ll be perching on while mowing your food truck treats. You’ve also got to mix practical with on trend, which can be agonizing if you’re not an effortless festival goddess.

My go to pieces always involve layering (even if it’s excessive at times) of both clothing and jewelry. I’d start with these bangles from the YBrands showroom. They’d provide a good hint of colour to any festival getup.

A maxi dress is a perfect piece as it’s both flowly but keeps your legs protected from scratchy grass. The stripe pattern of this Gypsy05 maxi would be perfect to layer with your key denim piece of the day.

If you’re going to a festival where you know it’s going to be hot, these Seychelle's sandals incorporate just enough of the stud trend to be cute without being a hindrance at airport security.

Keeping warm, especially at festivals in a desert like Sasquatch, mean a big knit is essential. This Left on Houston open cardigan could be thrown over any piece to stave off the nighttime chills.

BB Dakota’s lightweight patterned shorts would be perfect for a hot day. Throw on some thigh high socks to carry them into a cool night.

After browsing through the showrooms, we were both ready to ditch our winter knits for some festival pieces. Besides the basics of denim and patterns, incorporate practical layers with unexpected accessories to create a unique festival look while ensuring you won’t freeze while listening to Metallica in a cloud of fog. We coped with the longing for our next festival by stuffing our face with mini cupcakes – we’re definitely on our way to that summer bod.

Ottawa Fashion Week: Opening Party

Earlier this week, I attended the kick-off party for Ottawa Fashion Week.

It's been a long time since I've been the girl at an event who doesn't know a single person. I didn't know what fashion blogs (if there even are any) were popular in Ottawa, who the typical media and event people were, or anything. I went to this party not knowing a single thing about Ottawa Fashion Week, the scene, anything. I think this was actually a good thing...aside from being insanely awkward for most of the evening.

The party venue was only a few blocks from my apartment. It wasn't raining, so the Vancouverite in me wanted to make the most of that (plus taking a cab would've been silly), so I decided to walk. Walking meant that I couldn't wear heels, which was fine, since it was -10 and icy out. Dressed in denim on denim and black boots, I was the most underdressed person by a long shot. There were heels, bare legs, party dresses, the works! I was so underdressed, that my ice-breaker to talk to 2 girls was, "Hey. You guys look as awkward and uncomfortable about being underdressed as I am!" (I'm so charming.) I ended up trying to justify my underdressed-ness as being "Westcoast" - AKA practical. But then I was told (by a CTV reporter and the wife of the OFW Executive Director) that it's GAME ON during Ottawa Fashion Week, and to "have fun with it".

Challenge accepted.

What really surprised me about Ottawa Fashion Week (aside from the fact that it's just a weekend and that I had to pay for a media pass - yes, OFW, I'm judging you. This isn't MBFW) is that it is fully supported by the National Capital Commission, a Crown corporation that promotes the Ottawa region as a source of national pride and significance. The partnership helps promote the arts and culture aspect of fashion, something Vancouver could benefit greatly from.

While the actual fashions have yet to be judged, I can certainly tell you that the professionalism of OFW currently surpasses that of VFW. For OFW, it's not about the press hits, the SEO, or requests of biased blog contributions from bloggers (requests that once you've declined are somehow sent to you again by the same person), it's actually about fashion as a part of art and culture. And while that part differs from the fashion beliefs in the US and Europe, it's at least something that we can take ownership for.

Sarah: Drop Your Anchors at Portside

Follow Sarah on Twitter: @sarallin

This past Sunday I somehow lucked out and was tasked with going to the media preview of Portside, the latest venture by Mark Brand.

Located in Gastown, Portside hopes to bring East coast pub culture to Vancouver. Right off the bat they had my interest, as Vancouver isn't exactly known as the most friendly place.

With a name like Portside, it's quite obvious that they're going for a nautical vibe, and there are all sorts of cool artifacts to check out in the space. On top of being a bar, Portside also has a stage for live music acts, filling a void of medium-sized venues in the city.

Some highlights of the night, including me stuffing my face (as per usual)

The menu sticks to the basics, but is definitely a step up from your average drunk food. Highlights include the pulled pork, and hot dogs. Drinks are definitely the main attraction though, as Porside features an impressive 24 beers on tap, with 6 selections each from: local, Canadian, American, and international. Needless to say,  I didn't get a chance to try them all, but that will certainly be a goal of mine in the coming weeks.

Overall, Portside has an awesome vibe, and great food and drinks to back it up. I'm looking forward to checking out a live show and getting closer to my beer goal.

Things Not to Miss About Vancouver

And of course, there are always things that you won't miss about the place you're leaving.

- Translink delays and countless break downs (I will, however, miss their social media presence)
- Grey days when you can't tell the time of day
- The Yaletown scene
- Having so many hills (riding your bike or walking gets so tiring!)
- Vancouver's complete lack of snow preparedness
- Driving along: West Georgia, South Granville, Denman, Broadway, 41st, Robson
- Having simultaneous construction on all major routes from Burnaby to downtown
- Donnelly bars (same bar, different name)
- Always having to carry an umbrella because it could rain at a moment's notice
- Getting bombarded by people handing out the dailies and charity canvassers at/around Burrard Station
- $40 cab rides to Burnaby
- Trying to just find a cab
- Bandwagoners - from the Canucks to the Waldorf, Vancouverites love a cause, even if they have to make one up
- Archaic liquor laws


What are some thing in Vancouver that you wouldn't miss?

Things to Miss About Vancouver

Moving to a new city is, of course, bittersweet. On one hand there are so many new experiences to look forward to, but on the other, there are so many habits, favourites, routines, etc. that are already in place.

Here's a list of just some of the things I'll miss about Vancouver:

- Good gelato
- To Die For Banana Bread
- Specialty places like Bombay Brow Bar, Noir Lash Lounge, and Stripped Wax Bar (come to Ottawa!)
- Bar Method
- Leather jackets in January
- Kafkas coffee
- The ocean
- The cocktail scene
- The brunch scene
- Not really having to worry about massively changing my closet from summer to winter
- Summer default plans - "What do you want to do tonight? Grab gelato and hang out at English Bay? Yep ok."
- Whistler
- Cranberries Spa
- Proximity to the US (particularly for shipping to your US PO box - YOU ALL DO IT!)
- The lemon loaf from Revolver
- Cartems doughnuts
- Patio season
- Holt Renfrew (don't even try to convince me that the one in Ottawa is the same. It's NOT.)
- The Room at The Bay
- Gastown
- Hubbub Sandwiches
- Topshop
- Lululemon Lab
- Walks along the Seawall
- Local blogs like Vancity Buzz and Vancouver is Awesome
- The Board of Trade Co
- All the dive bars/awesome concert venues


What would you miss about Vancouver if you had to leave?

KnowShow - Proof Style and Function Aren't Mutually Exclusive

Follow Sarah on Twitter: @sarallin

Hey Vancouver, dare yourself to dress better, why don't ya?

Vancouver has a couple of reputations (aside from the overpriced housing, but that’s a whole other story): active lifestyle, and terrible fashion. Sadly these two things seem to have a direct correlation, and often you can’t tell if someone has just come from yoga or if they always look like that.

Last week we attended KNOWSHOW to check out the Fall/Winter 2013 collections from various lifestyle brands. There were a lot of great finds, and believe it or not, a lot of well-dressed people at the show. In a way, Vancouver is the perfect city for KNOWSHOW, because it acts as proof that lifestyle and fashion don’t have to be at odds with each other.

Here are some of my key takeaways from KNOWSHOW:

Unexpected materials: Whether it was sunglass frames made from skateboard decks at Proof Eyewear, or mesh looking surprisingly awesome when paired with denim for the Mavi/Chalayan Denim Capsule Collection, there was usually something interesting to learn about each item of clothing or accessory the more you looked into it.

Bold prints: Lifetime Collective showed sweaters with woven patterns that would make even Bill Cosby jealous. Quiksilver Women put out some great print pants that looked ready to be lived in. More specifically, blanket prints were a popular showing. I’ve always been a sucker for a good plaid item, and blanket prints seem to be a natural progression from there.

General awesomeness: I’ve been to my fair share of tradeshows, and I think KNOWSHOW has to be the most fun. Exhibitors are genuinely excited about the brands they’re representing, and want to share it with people. The only downside is that you have to wait for all these clothes to hit retailers.

So listen up Vancouverites, now that you’ve learned what the KNOWSHOW exhibitors have to offer, you really have no excuse for wearing leggings as pants.

In the Know (Show)

Follow Emily on Twitter: @em_rossco

KNOWSHOW is a bi-annual lifestyle tradeshow. What does that mean you ask? It means all of best looking, most rugged, well-dressed men get together in one room in Vancouver and drink caesars.

But really, it’s a relaxed tradeshow where lifestyle brands showcase their upcoming collections so buyers purchase pieces for their stores and bloggers (that’s us!) get a sneak peek at upcoming trends.

Here are my picks (excluding dreamy men and enviably-dressed women) from KNOWSHOW.

Clockwise from top left:

Sitka Surf, Skate & Apparel had a killer booth. Rustic touches complimented their upcoming line that featured cozy knits and lots of pattern.

The classic Fjallraven Kanken, is the best backpack (next to the local fan-favourite, Herschel). Tons of great colours available and the square design makes shoving in all your essentials super easy.

Pendleton prints are as good-looking as they are cozy. This duffle coat was definitely my top pick.

A line from Boise, Idaho, Proof Eyewear brought sustainable glasses and sunglasses (think wood and eco-plastic) and charming reps to KNOWSHOW. Check out their glasses for the perfect classic shape in a material that will make you feel good.

A Vancouver staple, Herschel Supply Co. carries on the neon trend in their backpacks. Super into this outdoorsy shape too.

Uranium jewelry out of Quebec brought unique pieces made by housewives and stay at home moms. They also brought an amazing cat shirt on a cat hanger.

Burnette Showroom had the most shoes at the show, making it my favourite stop. Booties, sandals, wedges, oxfords and more, I’m hoping to see these styles soon.

KnowShow: A Show Worth Knowing About

Last week Emily, Sarah, and I stopped by the KNOWSHOW to check out what was in store for the Fall/Winter 2013 action sports, fashion, and lifestyle brands.

What's great about KNOWSHOW is that it brings together roughly 300 local and international brands under one roof. With some of the brand's having only part of their collection available in certain stores and sometimes even dealing with exclusivity, it provides us with a great opportunity to get a more fulsome look at what these brands have to offer.

I love surfing (but I'm not good at it. Sidebar: Does anyone remember the short lived MTV show Surf Girls from 2003???). So imagine my surprise when I find out that there's a "more mature" Roxy/Quiksilver line, Quiksilver Women. Sarah has more on them.

TOMS was so good. Though, as usual, I had a preference for the men's collection. I love this casual take on the wingtip. A bit dressier than regular TOMS, but more casual than a leather shoe. Fun colours and patterns, but nothing overwhelming. The women's collection has cute new boot styles.

The Reef Resrv mens collection was amazing. I love how men's footwear is a thing now. The menswear scene is a weird combination of fashion, sports, and hiphop (seriously - why do you think Amar'e Stoudemire is pals with Anna Wintour? Do you think it's just for fun? There's always an agenda), so I can definitely see how menswear has evolved into what it is now.

Proof had amazing sunglasses - for both men and women! They also had a couple cute sweatshirts. 

Check out these super awesome slip-on brogues from Seychelles. Toe-caps! Patent! Prints! I don't usually care for Seychelles, but these I want so bad.

And these smoking slippers from Seychelles! I really want to Union Jack ones. Can't you just see Taylor Swift prancing around in these (probably holding on to a 18-year-old's hand)? They would go so well with her J.Crew fox sweater.

While this coat wouldn't keep me even a little bit warm in Ottawa, I'm so into it. It's BB Dakota and would make for a great fall or spring transition piece. Or, I suppose if you live in Vancouver, you could wear it all winter without problem. The (faux?) leather detailing is great.

Herschel Supply Co has a few new styles for Fall/Winter 2013. There are a lot more colours and, as you can see, a whole whack of new patterns. So support local!

New Year, New City

The rumours are true!

I'm moving!

To Ottawa! Our fair nation's capital.

I've been waiting rather (im)patiently to share the news with you all. If you follow me on Twitter, you may have seen some tweets hinting at something changing. I got the news just before Christmas - it really was a Christmas miracle.

Since August, but more so since October, I've been campaigning pretty hard to find a job in Ottawa, and it happened and I couldn't be more stoked. Ottawa's a lovely city, the 4th largest in Canada (immediately following Vancouver), so I'm convinced that I'll like it (start placing your bets).

So, what does that mean for Haus of Hybrid?

Well, expect more diverse content. I'll be posting regular features, so that content will stay the same. Plus I'll be throwing in some stuff from Ottawa to show you all it has to offer. But to cover events in Vancouver, I've asked 3 friends to help me.

Sarah (@sarallin) & Emily (@em_rossco) will be covering events around fashion and general lifestyle.

Mary (@marydotwu) will be covering anything about food.

They're all nice, but most importantly, they're funny. So play nice and follow them on Twitter, ok?

Forward!

2012: Year in Review

2012 has come and gone. Can you believe it? Where did the time go? It seems as though it was yesterday I was making my first New Year’s resolution.

In 2012 I resolved to try something new every month. I think I succeeded.

January: rode in an ambulance and got CT scan

February: went on a date with a complete stranger (in NYC no less!)

March: applied for a job I didn’t have a chance in getting, but landed among the top 3 candidates

April: signed up for the Bar Method’s 90 Day Challenge

May: took a leap of faith

June: applied for my first out of Province job

July: attended a wedding solo where I'm not really tight with anyone other than the bride and groom (Yes, it’s just as awkward as it sounds)

August: went to my first music festival

September: took my first overnight bus trip from Ottawa to NYC and back

October: joined the FHFF team/started shamelessly promoting myself to strangers in Ottawa to get a job

November: started my first French novel (I’m still reading it…)/met 1-on-1 with the Associate of my department/submitted my first article for print

December: did the bone luge at Wildebeest

2012 was a bit of a tough year for me, but it's ended on a solid, good note and I can't wait to share it with you. 

Did you manage to keep your 2012 resolution? What are you resolving for 2013?

Have a happy and safe New Year! See you in 2013!

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers (for men)

Stockings can be one of the most fun and easiest things you can put together for Christmas. But aside from the standard fare (magazines, mandarin oranges), here are some items that show just that little bit of extra effort.

Image via Dela Cruz PR

Instance Harlow socks - $11.50
Cool socks for guys are a thing right now.

Image via Dela Cruz PR

Urbanears Medis earbuds - $60
They come in a variety of colours, patterns, and styles.

Save on Meats sandwich tokens

Encourage do-gooding.

Image via etsy.com

My Bella copper money clip -  $24
The best part, get it personalized. Lots of other styles available on Etsy.

Image via amazon.com

Tovolo sphere ice molds - $12 (set of 2)

Round ice prevents your drinks from becoming diluted.

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers (for women)

Stockings can be one of the most fun and easiest things you can put together for Christmas. But aside from the standard fare (magazines, mandarin oranges), here are some items that show just that little bit of extra effort.

Image via sarahapp.com

The Lip Slip - $24 (from BeautyMark)
My favourite lip gloss. Read my review.

Image via kitchening.ca

Kitchening & Co. macarons (Urban Fare & various other Vancouver locations)
Delicious and they look pretty.

Image via katespade.com

Kate Spade business card case  - $58

It's always really great to be able to give someone your business card from a professional looking case. If this one's out of your budget, Etsy has lots.

Image via cwonder.com

C.Wonder cashmere heart gloves - $58

They're super cute and they have smartphone-capable fingers!

Image via cwonder.com

C.Wonder monogrammed stationary cards - $10 (set of 8)
Because everyone wants monogrammed stationary. No? Just me?

Bombay Brow Bar brow tab (6 services for the price of 5)
I don't know about you, but I'd be stoked to get this.

Event: The Sartorialist x Secret Location

Vancouverites, the Mayans must've been right; the end must be near. Why else would fashion's most famous blogger grace us with his presence?

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, The Sartorialist was here.

We came, we saw, he signed books (and prints), and was just a delight.

We were discussing how he picked the images for his prints

Aside from how he picked the images that were made into prints (he felt that they all kind of represented places he's visited), we also briefly discussed something, or someone, new to his site...

Last week, my friend Justin tweeted that his "first post" was up on The Sartorialist. Puzzled, I clicked through.

As it turns out, Justin (of Tucked Style) is the newest member of The Sartorialist team as the Men's Fashion Editor. He's crazy, fun, knows his menswear, and is a very talented photographer. I strongly recommend checking out his blog.

Being in Vancouver, I often forget that in other places, particularly in the US, people actually blog for a living. In fact, they not only blog for a living, but in Scott's case, he can gainfully employ others - not just have free interns (that BoF article is extremely interesting, by the way).

But that's a topic for a different post.

Blazer: Forever 21, T-shirt: Wilfred, Jeans: Banana Republic, Boots: Rachel Comey