To all of you Fash readers wondering the don`ts for this Fall season , I am going to run you through five trends we have seen blossom these past couple seasons that I believe will be going OFF trend, or should be. I will also be guiding you towards a fabulous alternative to these trends to keep from the humiliation of my bedazzled pink handcuffs… again! Please visit the Zara website for more of these fall styles. http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/home/ca/en

One Trend I did not mention this fall, Like the cardigan short and fitted blazer!

1. Grandfather Sweaters. This trend was mostly found at thrift stores and in our fathers` closets. Let’s face it, although these are very Chanel asexual, they are also extremely not flattering and should all be returned to the moth ball zoo of our grandpa`s attic trunks. These will be replaced this season with the cute flattering looks of a fitted short cardigan.

Two Trends! Animal Print and Cute Fitted Cardigan

1. Bootleg Jeans. Just like the grandfather sweater, these denim pants are extremely unforgiving. We had a brief affair with them but it is time to rebound the rebound and return to straight or skinny jeans and send these back to the 70`s where they belong.

Skinny, medium waist Jeans, the way they should be.

1. Prints. Although I like the native-like geometric  prints that have been around recently I believe they are on their way out only to be replaced by the classic/ 50’s like animal prints, polka dots, and even an alternative gypsy-like geometric print.

An interesting, stylish geometric print. (without being over the top)

1. Knee High, high heeled boots. Seriously, when were these ever attractive or appropriate? Wearing these makes you look trashy, not the way we should look, which is lady-like and classy. These should all be banned and burned.

Boots: cute, heeled, and comes up to the ankle (not trashy and very lady-like!)

1. I have to add this one, and I really hope this does not offend anyone, however I really hate plain, black, jersey tube skirts. When these are worn they are way too short, boring, and seem a lazy version of a fitted pencil skirt. Be creative and find some of these skirts with interesting colors, embellishments, seams, and other details, these will hopefully replace these wannabe skirts…

This skirt is sexy, has a cute ruffle, and it tailored to fit! NOT JERSEY and boring!

                          

With bows, a sweetheart neckline, and support this suit is two of the bikini trends... read below for details...

Hello Fash Readers! It is mid-summer and around this time I love to look at new swimsuits, mainly because I start longingly looking outside wishing I was constantly sitting on the beach. Also, because my birthday is around the corner and I love to make a splash then! I was recently browsing the Victoria`s Secret website and I want to share with you the largest trends I found. I hope you all enjoy.

Bikini:

-         The Sweetheart: This type of bikini features a sweetheart or “m” neckline and can include various other sweet details such as ruffles, pastel colors, bows, and floral patterns.

This suit features a bandeau with a sweetheart neckline in a pastel color with ruffles, all to help add a feminine touch to a boy like figure.

This first sweetheart suit features a girly pattern, bows, and the "m" neckline, perfect for a petit woman.This suit features a bandeau with a sweetheart neckline in a pastel color with ruffles, all to help add a feminine touch to a boy like figure.This suit features a bandeau with a sweetheart neckline in a pastel color with ruffles, all to help add a feminine touch to a boy like figure.

(Best body type: Petit and/or Boyish)

-         Bandeau: The bandeau has been used as an undergarment to stretch across the bust line for a while now, however now it is used in many ways as a bikini top. It can be a straight tube or can be manipulated to add support like the support system trend or twisted or gathered to create shape.

This bandeau is manipualted to create shape and has two other trends like embellishments and is a miss matched suit.

This bandeau top is a straight tube and is embeliished with what I beleive are sequins, another new trend in swimwear!

(Best body type: Long and Slender)

-         Support System: This trend is simple and very healthy for us. It is any shape that adds support for the woman’s breast line using underwire or manipulation of the fabric.

This trend is easily noticeable, this top adds support while still looking stylish.

(Best body type: Busty/ Curvy)

Tankini:

-         Drapery: There is not much new and trendy in tankinis however I did notice a recurring pattern of drapery in tankini tops such as cowl necklines or ruffles.

A cowl neck tankini top, fierce and flattering.

(Best body type: Petit or long and helps hide the somach)

One Piece:

-         Dress Piece: This trend is a favorite of mine, it reminds me of a return to simpler more conservative days where bathing suits were like short dress and came down our thighs halfway. I own a polka dot bathing dress and it has been my favorite of any bathing suit I have worn. It is not perfect for tanning but will give you a sense of nostalgia, similar to the Marilyn Monroe trend.

A beautiful dress like suit, including a tie on the side has that sence of nostalgia while still being modern.

(Best body type: Petit or tall and curvy or slender)

-         The Marilyn Monroe: I do not think this trend needs explaining, hasn’t everyone seen that famous picture of the curvy beauty in a white swimsuit? Well maybe you all need reminding…

The new Marilyn Monroe, fabric gathering perfection.

The famous photo of Marilyn Monroe in that beautiful white swimsuit!The new Marilyn Monroe, fabric gathering perfection.The new Marilyn Monroe, fabric gathering perfection.

(Best body type: Curvy like Monroe herself!)

-         The Monokini: This semi-new concept is a one suit that seems to have cut outs and shows off more skin but still controls the look of the curves of a woman. You may have seen many versions of this on Kim Kardashian if you are like me and love celebrity tabloids.

Half one suit, half bikini.

The "New" Monokini

(Best body type: Toned and curvy)

Reference: http://www.victoriassecret.com/swimwear (photos and trends)

                          

A beautiful look from The 2012 Autumn runway show, look closely at the gorgeous hand lace detailing on the skirt!

To say this year has been good for the Jason Matlo brand would be an understatement and I for one am glad this is the Vancouver designer being brought into the light. Because if I see any more boring, organic, jersey Vancouver designs I will probably go crazy and you can call Matlo’s clothing anything but boring. This is what true art looks like in the design world. Not only has Jason shown his intricate skills in couture by collaborating with Tiffany’s and Company for his 2012 bridal show at the Georgia Hotel but has also recently shown his new Autumn 2012 collection for Fashion’s Night Out. Which by the way Fash Readers is coming to Vancouver, B.C. this year! This new collection is filled with hand done lace pieces, structured wool in unique silhouettes (a specialty of the designer), and of course nothing but the best in fit and construction. The red jersey pieces mixed in with the fabulous grey, white, and black power pieces will set all of your tails wagging and then some.

A beautiful red jersey gown from the 2012 Autumn runway show.

The bridal show was definitely not boring though, look at some photos if you need proof, I know hard to look away and finish reading right? Sure the venue was glamorous and open and the diamonds expensive and clear, but the gowns were the statements of the evening. My favorite piece being a high collared, sleeveless, metallic charcoal piece, and had what I assume was hand embroidering throughout. Each piece held an essence of nostalgia (especially in shape), and of course classic romance (what every girl looks for in a perfect wedding dress).

A bridal gown from the 2012 show, a very unique lace piece. Question: Do you see any seams in the bodice?

Ladies if you are not impressed by now than I do not know how to get through to you. If you are then check out some of the hot pieces of his ready to wear line at the Bay in downtown Vancouver in the Room! For more information about the designer or how to get a piece fitted for you, like a wedding gown, go to http://www.jasonmatlo.com. And for more information about the upcoming events for Fashion`s Night out visit: http://fnovancouver.com. You can also view many of the runway shows on www.youtube.com. Vancouver and the rest of Canada is drooling for more of these designs and is wishing for more unique designers; however we do know there is only one Jason Matlo and I am positive this is only the beginning for him.

A photo taken of Jason Matlo with his models and pieces from the 2012 bridal show at hotel georgia. Hint: My favorite is on the far left!

                          

Community Thrift and Vintage The Frock Shoppe

The unisex version of the store has been open since April 2011 and The Frock Shoppe has been open since December 2011. These boutiques have been actively involved in the community and in the lives of many women in Vancouver going through recovery and transitioning to a better life. The management and owners of Community employ women from the Rainier Hotel next door to the Frock Shoppe to aide in a change of direction towards traditional employment. All the fashions are handpicked by a wholesaler hired by the company or are dropped off donations, according to the manager.  Also, while I shopped around the store and talked to employees, I discovered that they pick clothes and accessories that they enjoy, the store revolves more around style and quality rather than quantity.

Inside the Frock Shoppe at the Jewelry display (It has a drawer of old Hankies!)

Not only is the small shop neatly organised by style and has a relaxing atmosphere to aide to the experience of shopping around; the date the product was popular is shown on the item tag (if known). It carries everything from vintage undergarments, to evening wear, to blazers, to sundresses, to the wanted vintage item of the summer: The vintage jumper. This is what I believe will be the most coveted fashion item within Vancouver this season, especially because of the build-up it got in the summer of 2011.

The stylish Cash desk

No matter your age or fashion sense, this is a cool, calm, inexpensive environment to shop for anything vintage; from dresses to handbags and hankies. Items that you would normally find for $60.00 you can get here for $20.00 or sometimes less. Community not only hires women in recovery to give them valuable job skills but also gives all their profits back to the community through helpful programs. All this and more you can learn about on their website/blog: http://communitythriftandvintage.wordpress.com/about/and also on their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/communitythriftandvintage.

Some Nostalgic Wear

                          

I woke up with the sun’s ray on my face and a desire in my heart to be inspired again. I didn’t have to go far when I found myself surrounded by empowering women at the Women’s Expo a couple of hours later. I was given great advice for facial care, make up application, body training, healthy diets, sex, etc. Not all bad but it wasn’t what my heart was thirsting and hungering for. I was looking for something original and unique; one of a kind type of thing.

After what seemed like walking through endless asiles of perfume stands, makeup consultants, cupcake offers and financial consultation nothing caught my eyes but the unique designs of corsets by Victoria Wilson. Oh, how it brought back memories when I was a child gazing at the television as the victorian-inspired movie was playing. Flashes and clips of movie scenes running through my mind of servants helping the princess with her corset and how ravishing the princess looked  as she walked down the steps to enter the banquet hall. All eyes were locked on her. I remember thinking to myself, “Wow. She’s so pretty.” Then desiring that type of beauty and attention afterwards. To stand out in the crowd, to be unique and beautiful. 

After gawcking at these amazing pieces, I approached the designer and introduced myself. Face to face with Victoria Wilson, I just had to ask the question, “What inspired you?” Wilson said, “I have always loved fashion and I have studied fashion but I was looking for a focus. I decided corsets because no one has touched them yet. From there I’ve just started designing.” Hello! A woman with passion for fashion and making a business that no one has really tapped into. Words of wisdom and inspiration for all inspired to be entrepreneurs. 

                          

A photo of Victoria Beckham behind the press pit

I have been a fan of Victoria Beckham for a while now, mainly since I was ten and made my babysitter wait up for me while I changed to resemble every spice girl and sang to Stop before I would go to bed. You think this would embarass me but actually I am quite proud of it! However I am a true believer in punctuality and organisation of events of a professional nature. Most Vancouver fans believe her to be a Diva now because she did not apologize to us personally, but instead was tweeting about not enjoying the carpet on her private jet. Although I still am a fan of hers I will probably never forget my disappointment during this event.  However through all this there was a somewhat silver lining when I got to take a picture with her, she was very sweet to me and I appreciate that immensely. Look below, although it is fairly blurry, this is mainly because of all the crazy fans who were there trampling people in order to receive any type of photo or even to get her to hear their “I LOVE YOU VICTORIA.”

Me and Victoria Beckham surrounded by "HUNGRY" fans. I guess this would make me one of them!

“I’ve been to a few events [at Holt Renfrew], they are usually really organised and over the top [including gifts, etc…], I am very disappointed with it this time around. I am still a fan of Victoria Beckham [and the store], but this is frustrating.”

Courtney Hunter pictured below with a friend waiting to catch a glimpse of one of her idols (about an hour before she shows up).

Courtney Hunter on the right and her friend on the left

What I am VERY disappointed in is the team of employees and marketing people at Holt Renfrew for the organisational skills surrounding this event. Not only did they seem to not know what was going on, but when they did refused to talk to any of the fans in the crowd or announce to the whole store that she was coming late… I was very annoyed by this because these large billion dollar companies have a better reputation for there PR teams and attentive hosting during events and special occasions.  And on top of everything did not apologize to any of us there or on twitter. All we got from them was a tiny Holt Renfrew bottle of water  which did not make anyone who was there since ten o’clock in the morning any happier. I talked to a couple people there that were there for a while and they were not very impressed with the store and especially Victoria Beckham, leaving them feeling completely bored and betrayed.

“It was so not worth the wait, yes, it was exciting once she was there (2 hours late) but by the end of it, I am no longer ever going to an event at Holt Renfrew and never shopping there again. Their pity mini bottled water was more of a slap in the face after standing in one spot for more than 3 hours. For half that time all we heard from them was “10 more minutes,” [meanwhile] Victoria Beckham was sending tweets from customs.”

Jewlee Big Plume, a fan of Victoria Beckham and Holt Renfrew after she had a chance to see the star make her appearance. No photo available.

Victoria Beckham on the small Holt Renfrew Stage, she was here only a few minutes.

Although I will continue to respect Victoria Beckham as a mom, a brand, a fashion icon, and a star; I will never forget how I felt when she did not apologize about arriving that late! I will continue to love the store and there hot pink brand but will not forget this event. I will leave it up to you, the readers and consumers, to decide what you think.

                          

Photo taken from expedia.ca

Las Vegas. The Riviera Hotel and Casino is the place for you if you’ve always wanted to hit up the casinos and have the original experience in Las Vegas. It includes a seasonal outdoor pool, a health spa and lighted tennis courts. If you want to go outdoors as well, there’s nearby golfing and hiking/biking trails. The buffet serves Chinese, Mexican, Italian and American/barbecue dishes. Go here to see the rooms & rates for three nights, which start at $60.80.

Photo taken from gocuba.ca

Cuba. This destination will inspire you to be active while soaking up the sun. Water sports and activities include sailing & cruising, water skiing, and diving & snorkelling, where you can admire underwater species and captivating topography. Nature lovers can take advantage of Cuba’s ecotourism by exploring its tropical forests and engage in activities such as, spelunking, bird-watching, hiking, nature-photography and horseback riding. See the different resorts you can stay at here.

Photo taken from visitlondon.com

London. With the Olympics around the corner, the city will be hosting a huge outdoor arts festival with free events. If you’re up for big crowds and celebrations, you might want to be in Central London where the streets will be filled with excitement and entertainment, including pop-up performances. To plan your travels during the game go here. The Olympic Torch Relay is from July 21-27 for those who want to witness the Flame in person. Visitlondon.com offers a guide on London’s attractions, accommodation, restaurants and shopping destinations. Go here to see Sunwing’s roundtrip prices, starting from $190.

                          

photo taken from pinterest.com

Summer is the season for exploring colorful makeup. Keep it fresh and wearable with greens and pinks that flatter most complexions. You will be out of the house and picture perfect in no time!

Stila Eye Shadow in Kitten

MAC Eye Kohl in Minted

Eyes: 

Stila’s Kitten eye shadow is a go-to lid color that illuminates your eyes and provides the perfect backdrop for summer colors. This product also works great on its own, on days when you want to get some extra beauty sleep.

This MAC Minted Eye Kohl is a great summer alternative for typical black eyeliner. Wing out the line for a flirty cat eye look, or apply a thin line on your lash line to make your eye color pop. Mint is the It color right now, so embrace the trend head to toe or simply invest in this fun eyeliner.

Physician's Formula Happy Booster Blush

Cheeks:

This Physician’s Formula blush is really adorable and formulated to improve your mood. Blend the colors together with a blush brush and apply on the apples of your cheeks and temples. You will get the smitten flush that is just the right amount of color for summer.

MAC Tinted Lipglass in Pink Lemonade

Lips:

MAC’s pink lipglass with golden shimmer is a product that will stay in your handbag all summer. Ideal for girls who want to drink pink lemonade and eat cupcakes without worrying about smudging their lip color. It also complements the pink blush and green products perfectly.

Essie Polish in Mojito Madness

Nails:

This summer 2012 Essie color, named after the sparkling mojito cocktail, is a covetable green shade that has the right amount of pop. Perfect for going to the beach, on mini holidays and having lunch on the terrace!

Staying cool and pretty during the summer does not have to be a hassle. First, apply facial sunscreen and tinted moisturizer or BB cream on your face. Next, try out this girly and easy makeup look to appear effortlessly fresh. Finally, slip on a lightweight outfit that makes you feel super confidant and you are ready for an enchanted summer.