Photo taken from virginiajohnson.com

Her creations, which include decorative pillows ($95), shawls ($195) and bags, consist of earthy, vibrant and bold colours. She adopts an organic aesthetic, connecting you with nature through her fashion with prints and patterns of bears, birds, camels and leaves. Though her style is natural, her colour-scheme is anything but neutral. She steers away from black and white and instead opts for bright, uplifting tones.

Photo taken from virginiajohnson.com

According to the National Post, she describes her fashion sense as “bohemian and irregular” and “soft for the home.” Creating textiles allowed her to combine her love of fashion and drawing. Perhaps her taste for playful colours and designs stemmed from her relationship with markers in her earlier days when she would sit in front of the T.V. and draw clothing for characters from her favourite soap operas.

Photo taken from virginiajohnson.com

Like her clothing and home collections, her accessories are nature-inspired. For the bohemian techie, she has designed iPhone sleeves, which have similar patterns to her tote ($98) and cosmetic ($45) bags. Her scarves, made of light-weight cotton, are versatile accessories, as they can be worn in the summer or winter (as a shawl over the shoulders).

Photo taken from virginiajohnson.com

If you’re looking for comfortable and trendy fashion with an air of simplicity, visit Johnson’s boutique on Ossington Avenue or shop online at virginiajohnson.com. She can also be found in store worldwide, such as Barneys and Selfridges.

                          

photo taken from elleandblair.com

While glass slippers are outdated and uncomfortable, a fantastic pair of shoes can certainly be just as magical. The UK brand Topshop, which luckily ships worldwide, has an extremely eclectic and funky assortment of shoes. From trusty flats that you can slip on to avant garde, sculptural heels, Topshop offers all these and more at a reasonable price point. It is truly the best of both worlds for your budget and your feet!

Flats: For work or school where comfort is the main factor, flats will carry you throughout the day in style. You can still participate in the season’s trends with details such as the brocade fabric, neon lining and clear sides. Comfort and style are certainly not mutually exclusive when exploring the multiple options Topshop has to offer!

photo taken from topshop.com

photo taken from topshop.com

photo taken from topshop.com

Sandals: They add a cool and casual element to a put together outfit or classy dress. They travel great from the beach, to the streets, to outdoor barbecues. Also, these summer must-haves take very little space when packing, so you can have options during a fantastic getaway.

photo taken from topshop.com

photo taken from topshop.com

photo taken from topshop.com

Heels: Sometimes a girl just wants attention and fun. These eye grabbing heels, among the plethora offered by Topshop, will make sure you are not a wallflower for the evening. Strut instead of walk, beam instead of smile and toss your hair like you are in a Beyonce music video.

photo taken from topshop.com

photo taken from topshop.com

photo taken from topshop.com

Topshop offers a selection of shoes that can convert the most skimpy of shoebuyers into shoeaholics. Whether you like to keep it classic or to be truly edgy, these affordable shoes will allow you to step in style with the best of them. As an added perk, they are lesser known in Canada so you will not likely find others wearing your shoes. It can be our little secret…

                          

(Photo: beach-backgrounds.com)

Does last summer feel like a distant memory to you? Most likely, since this past winter seemed to last for an eternity. Thus, you can’t be faulted for having some forgotten some beach staples. Sure, there’s sunscreen and sunglasses, but you’ll need a few more items to ensure that perfect beach day.

Phone Pouch (go-travelproducts.com)

A Mobile Phone Pouch

Sand is beautiful to look and comfy to lie on, but it’s a disaster when combined with your tech gadgets. If it’s not getting into your headphone jack or keyboard, it’s combining with the heat and sticking to every surface. Get a phone pouch or protector that can cover your entire phone so that it never has to touch the sand all day.

A Camera

Whether it’s hijinks with friends or a beautiful sunset over the water, it’s probably worth remembering. If it doesn’t come with one, buy a protective pouch for your camera, too!

Alterna Bamboo Smooth Anti-Humidity Hair Spray (sephora.com)

Anti-Humidity Hair Spray

If you spent the morning tousling, teasing, and curling your hair for the perfect beach waves, you definitely don’t want that ruined after half an hour in the sun. Even if you haven’t, you probably don’t want to end the day with a frizzy afro. A heat- or humidity- resistant will keep your hair looking great. Buy a waterproof model if you plan on getting wet.

Doubles of Clothing

Things get wet. Others that don’t get wet get covered in sand. Pack some extra clothes to wear on the way back or in case someone drags you in the water.

Towelite Body Beach Towel (theoutdoorshop.multiply.com)

A Compact Beach Towel

Beach towels are usually huge and a hassle to deal with, but lying on the hot sand without one is no fun either. Fix the problem by getting a light and compact microfiber towel. These are specially designed to be thin and to fold up easily to fit into a beach bag.

The beach should be the most relaxing place in the world, so don’t let the sand and humidity ruin your day. Grab these items and you’ll be able to soak up the sun without a care in the world.

                          

California in a Compact - Beach Bunny (Too Faced)

School may be out and your vacation may be starting, but before you go, make sure you haven’t forgotten about one of the most important courses of them all – Summer Beauty 101! Whether you want to be a “California Girl” like Katy Perry or have some romantic “Summer Nights” à la Grease, now is the time to look your best. With a few tricks, you’ll pass in no time!

Makeunder - Sammi from Jersey Shore (xojane.com)

Have you noticed the stream of celeb “No make-up!” pics on Twitter or the “makeunder” specials in fashion magazines? That’s because the natural, light make-up look is very in this season. Non-essentials like blush, eyeshadow, lip glosses, and lipsticks can be done away with. However, if these products are your must-wears, use them to complement your natural features rather than to go bold. Pale lipsticks and neutral palettes will do the trick.

Dew Me Moisturizing Makeup Setting Spray (Urban Decay)

The kryptonite of a made-up face is sweat. How many times have you left your door looking flawless, only to have all your make-up melt after ten minutes under the hot sun? To prevent this from happening, invest in a spray or primer designed specially to withstand heat. For example, Dew Me by Urban Decay (right) uses temperature control technology to hold your makeup in place. An additional tip: sweat can irritate the skin as it leaves behind salty traces. If you have the time, it’s best to rinse your face after sweating. Frustrating, yes, but it’ll pay off in the long run.

Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 (NARS)

Sunscreen is imperative for healthy skin, both in the short- and long-term. You may think it doesn’t go well with makeup – you can’t apply makeup over sunscreen because it’s too greasy and you definitely can’t apply sunscreen over makeup because it’ll ruin it! Luckily, there’s an easy solution: sunscreen within makeup. There are many tinted moisturizers, primers, foundations, and even powders which have a high enough SPF to sufficiently protect your skin.

In short, your make-up should be as light and fresh as possible this season. Take the time you’ll save from not putting on those added layers of blush and bronzer and use it to focus on maintaining naturally healthy and glowing skin!

                          

Photo taken from lifestyle.ca.msn.com

Photo taken from overstock.com

Casual. Flowy fabrics, like cotton or linen, are especially suitable for outdoor weddings. Light-coloured patterned or floral dresses also go well with the warm weather and have a fresh and flirty feel. You can wear flats, like metallic sandals—just stay away from flip-flops. Add a thin belt or short cardigan over top for a little extra flair.

Photo taken from everytide.com

Photo taken from everytide.com

Semi-formal. A cocktail dress can be simple or fancy, allowing you to dress up or down. Go for a chiffon cocktail dress with an A-line silhouette embellished with understated ruffles and beading at the waist line for the sweet look. Or choose a sheath/column dress with a sweetheart neckline and layered ruffles for a sexy look.

Photo taken from everytide.com

Photo taken from everytide.com

Formal. Choose a knee-length, V-neck, solid-coloured cocktail dress that’s form-fitted for a sleek and sophisticated look. If you want the vintage vibe, go with lace. Choose a strapless, A-line dress with a wide silk belt, which adds to the femininity and elegance of the dress.

Black or navy blue is fine to wear, especially if the wedding is in the evening. Never wear all white or ivory, however, as it’s considered disrespectful, and you wouldn’t want to up-stage the bride on her big day.

                          

Welcome Fash readers to my first trend report , I know these runway shows have been out for many months and we are well into the fall ready-to-wear shows, however I believe you should all receive this information now before shopping for your spring and summer wardrobe! Here`s to the new fashion trends I deem appropriate and unique to this season. Read on find out which ones I picked…

-         Geometric Shapes, Yes this means cut outs, color blocking and more. Nothing says spring this year like some well place seams, darts, contrast fabric or color.

Some designers or brands showing this trend on the S/S 2012, ready to wear runway: 10 Crosby Lam, 3.1 Philip Lim, Alberta Ferretti, Alexander Wang, Burberry, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, Chloé, Christian Dior…

Photo of 10 Derek Lam Spring 2012 - Geometric Shapes

-         What catches your eyes in the sunlight as well as the dark cannot be deemed a bad trend. Say hello this season to shiny, liquid like fabrics that add the perfect amount of glamour and another unique quality that can be hard to place, this smooth fabric looks like it is always moving, and flowing even when thick enough to stand still.

Some designers and brands showing this trend on the S/S 2012, ready to wear runway: Acne, Christian Dior, DKNY, Prada, ADAM, 3.1 Philip Lim, Balenciaga, Christopher Kane, Chado Ralph Rucci, Chanel…

Photo of Acne Spring 2012 Runway - Liquid Fabric

-         Speaking of smooth fabric another big trend for spring and summer this year is an outfit or dress made up entirely of silk. This trend is pretty much self-describable, yes that is a word. This one in particular is one trend I believe will be seen a lot this season on people in the workplace as well as one the streets.

Some designers and brands showing this trend on the S/S 2012, ready to wear runway: 3.1 Philip Lim, ADAM, Alberta Ferretti, Diane Von Furstenberg, DKNY…

Photo of Diane Von Furstenberg Spring 2012 Runway - Full of Silk

-         Not All There is a trend that features many fabrics that show lots of skin but is not transparent chiffon; it could be anything from a unique lace such as eyelet or even many cut-outs.

Some designers and brands showing this trend on the S/S 2012, ready to wear runway: Alberta Ferretti, Alexander McQueen, Betsey Johnson, Calvin Klein, Chado Ralph Rucci, Chloé, Christian Dior, Derek Lam, Diane Von Furstenberg, Victor & Rolf…

Photo of Alberta Ferretti Spring 2012 Runway - Not All There

-         One period that never goes out of style and is always in trend is the 1940’s; femininity, the “New Look,” glamour, is any of it wrong?? This trend is always featured during the spring especially in natural fabrics such as cotton and linen and  in pastel colors.

Some designers and brands showing this trend on the S/S 2012, ready to wear runway: Acne, Chanel,  ADAM, Alexander McQueen, Anna Sui, Betsey Johnson, Burberry, Christian Dior, Fendi (in a modern and unique way), Louis Vuitton…

Photo of Chanel Spring 2012 Runway - Feminine Forties

-         And now the color trend of the 2012 spring and summer shows, YELLOW! Every shade of yellow; neon to pastel yellows, it will make the sun shine everyday even when it is dark, grey and raining. One color to make every day happy, shiny, and full of joy; the way yellow always does.

Some designers and brands showing this trend on the S/S 2012, ready to wear runway: 10 Crosby Derek Lam, Burberry, Carolina Herrera, Chado Ralph Rucci, Derek Lam, Diane Von Furstenberg, Louis Vuitton, Oscar de la Renta, Sonia Rykiel…

Photo of Spring 2012 Louis Vuitton Runway - YELLOW

For more trend information, pictures and videos of all runway shows that are easy to find, and what is my resource for trend research- www.style.com, as well as www.vogue.it.

                          

(Photo: PR Photos)

Remember when you spent hours braiding and styling your Barbie’s or your best friend’s hair at sleepovers? Well, now you can put those braiding skills to use! Braids are versatile, so you can wear them anywhere, from a beach to work to prom. If you’re new to braids, you’ll learn to love them – they’re often quick to make and always pretty to look at.  Still, sometimes the classic French and fishtail braids get boring to do. The solution? These beautiful twists on the braided look, guaranteed to jazz up your hair!

Waterfall braid (Photo: lovemaegan.com)

Waterfall Braid

This braid is similar to a French braid since you add new strands of hair as you move across your scalp. However, you also let go of a braided strand every time you add a new one, thereby creating the “waterfall” effect.

Tutorial for the look here.

Braided Updo (Photo: mystylebell.com)

Side Braid Updo

This look has a French side braid ending in a messy bun. It’s a fun, bohemian spin on an otherwise very classy look. It’s a great fit for both formal and casual situation – for the former, do it very neatly and for the latter, pull some strands out of the do to mess it up a bit.

Tutorial here.

Braid Headband (Photo: examiner.com)

Braid Headband or “Braidband”

As the name suggests, this look involves pinning up a braid of your hair to make a headband. The one Sienna Miller is sporting is very full and thick, but if you want a less bold look or if you don’t have as much hair, you can try a thinner braid or one that only extends across part of your scalp.

Tutorial here.

Messy Side Plait (Photo: myfashionbeautytips.com)

Messy Side Plait

For a casual but gorgeous look, try a messy side plait. It’s a great look if your hair is already a bit tangled and mussed up. The messy look is harder to achieve than you might think, but this do is still the simplest of the four.

Tutorial here.

If you’re new at braiding, you’re going to have to practice for a little while before you can pull off some of the styles, especially the updos. Start with a plain braid, and then advance to a French braid. Make sure you can pin buns and tie elastics properly as well. It might take a lot of work, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to whip up these looks whenever you want!

                          

photo taken from pinterest.com

Time flies when you look and feel fabulous! Worn on their own or layered with jewelry, watches add personality and edge to any look. Attend your business and social functions in a timely manner by never leaving your home without a reliable yet fashionable watch. A stylish watch is an investment that never loses its value over time.

photo taken from asos.com

photo taken from betseyjohnson.com

Metallics

Metallic watches are classic and androgynous. Wear one to complete a chic menswear inspired outfit. Conversely, pair with delicate jewelry and a dress to add a feminine touch. Choose your favorite metallic finish: silver, gold, rose-gold or bronze, and be prepared to shine well into the night.

photo taken from asos.com

photo taken from asos.com

Printed 

Prints add visual pop and dimension. For an edgy detail, animal printed watches are a must, whereas delicate floral watches incorporate a feminine allure. The colors in your printed watch can parallel the colors in your clothes or else, the print can stand out even more by wearing all neutral colors. Do not worry too much about your watch pattern clashing with your clothing patterns; mismatched prints create a cool shabby chic look.

photo taken from betseyjohnson.com

photo taken from asos.com

Whimsical

If standard watches do not inspire you, go outside the box with a watch that incorporates funky numbers and shapes. The “Once upon A time” watch will transport you into a dreamy state each time you wear it, and the floral watch with irregularly sized numbers is a definite conversation starter. If you set trends instead of following them, carry that originality from your clothing choices into watches as well.

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend but watches are a women’s trusty companion. Do not miss out on a single event in life by staying punctual and organized, without ever having to sacrifice style. A watch that is perfectly suited for you will never fall out of trend, true style is timeless.

                          

Photo taken from simpleskincare.ca

According to simpleskincare.ca, a facial cleanser is a vital part of your daily skincare regimen, as it helps gets rid of impurities. You should cleanse your face twice a day to remove grime and dirt that can clog pores and cause irritation. Use Simple® Moisturizing Facial Wash or Simple® Refreshing Facial Gel followed by Simple® Smoothing Facial Scrub to revive your skin and brighten your face by getting rid of dead skin cells.

Photo taken from simpleskincare.ca

Their wipes are gentle yet efficiently remove make-up. They’re good for travelling or keeping in your bag for when you need a quick cleanse. Afterward, you should use Simple® Soothing
Facial Toner to remove leftover traces of make-up and dirt, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed.

Photo taken from simpleskincare.ca

Then you’ll want to use a moisturizer to keep your skin from drying out. All their moisturizers have Pro-Vitamin B5, which keeps your skin soft and smooth. Simple® Hydrating Light Moisturizer, an everyday moisturizer, is easily absorbed and acts as a great base for make-up. Use it morning and night to help keep your skin hydrated. If you have drier skin, you might want to try Simple® Replenishing Rich Moisturizer. This non-greasy moisturizer will keep your skin moisturized all day. If you’re going to be outside, protect your face with a moisturizer that has an SPF, such as Simple® Vital Vitamin Day Cream SPF 15. To restore and replenish skin with moisture overnight, try Simple® Vital Vitamin Night Cream.

Photo taken from simpleskincare.ca

                          

High Waist Hot Shorts in Red (Nasty Gal)

April’s showers are coming to a close and May’s flowers are blooming. That can only mean one thing – warm weather! (Finally!) While you’re waiting for those blessed days to arrive, prepare your closet by equipping it with the 2012 summer staples that will guarantee that you’ll be sizzling hot like the heat.

First, instead of boring old denim, get some coloured shorts! Coloured skinnies were all the rage this year and expect the trend to continue on to summer wear. Pale-coloured jeans were the trend, but if you’re buying shorts, feel free to go much brighter.

(Photo: mileysource.net)

People are hailing the return of 90s fashion and rightly so! The “phat” crop tops of a couple decades prior are making a “dope” comeback. Doesn’t Miley Cyrus, left, look so fly in her stylin’ belly shirt? Of course she does! Duh!

OPI New York City Ballet Colours (Photo: sparklestyle.co.uk)

If you’re looking for new nail polishes, try pale and feminine nail colours. These soft shades are gorgeous and perfect pairing for sweet, lacy summer dresses. OPI’s newest New York Ballet-inspired collection of soft shades or Kim Kardashian’s “Wel-Kim to My World” collection for OPI are good places to start.

Polka Dot High-Low Dress with Belt (Forever21)

High-low dresses, so named because they’re short in the front and long in the back, will be very popular this season. The uneven hemline makes them interesting to look at and fun to twirl around in.

Finally, coloured frames is this year’s spin on sunglasses. Whether they’re white or bright red, your frames will be drawing looks wherever you go. It’s best to pick a style that suits your face, but if you want to stick with the fashions – go big and go circular!

This summer should be exciting, bright, and tons of fun – exactly how your shopping experience should feel too!