If the electronic music scene and fashion were to have a love child, it would be called House of Spy and it would be moulded and designed by Wendy Wong, the biology student turned fashion designer. The solo Canadian designer whose first clothing line started in 2000 has been busy working on her second line that reflects a change in style, just as the sophisticated changes in her life.
After studying at the University of Toronto and working part time as a receptionist at the International Academy of Design and Technology, Wong was caught between science and fashion, but decided to ditch her lab coat for fabric and scissors. The free courses her part time job offered allowed Wong’s passion to transform into a career. House of Spy, Wong’s first line, debuted in 2000, right at the peak of the electronic music scene. “I was heavily involved [in the electronic music scene] and it influenced everything I designed,” said Wong. The mantra of the line was a balance between stylish enough for the streets, but comfortable enough to dance in all night long.
But after the electronic days had come and gone, Wong’s line still stuck around but needed to change, just as she had. “I had been toying with the idea of rebranding the line for a few seasons since the line had been growing and maturing with me and I was going in a much dressier, contemporary direction.” After struggling to say goodbye to House of Spy, the final push Wong needed happened when Barney’s wanted to put House of Spy on the shelves but leave the name behind. “I will always look fondly on House of spy but that label was a reflection of me in my 20’s.” Just as Wong matured into a more polished and sophisticated woman, her next clothing line, Maison, which she considers to be a reflection of herself in her 30’s, came to fruition.

The inspiration for the line often comes from Wong’s travels, as she can be found in North America on Monday and in Europe by Friday. Because she travels so much, Wong is constantly exposed to other cultures, vintage clothing, art and architecture that often are the jump start to an entire collection. When thinking Maison, think the effortless and quirky styles of Chloe Sevigny, Mila Jovovich and Sarah Jessica Parker. “The Maison woman is a confident and self assured person who enjoys creative sophistication with their wardrobe. Someone with a zest for life and that needs a great wardrobe to take her from day to night. She appreciates fabrics and fits and can seamlessly mix old and new without being hung up on what’s trendy.”

Visit Pho Pa, Frock or Independent De Signers Outlet in Toronto for Maison merchandise or
http://www.maisonclothing.com for a complete list of Canadian retailers.

By: Souzan Michael, FW Writer

Jessica Stam

Also known simply as “Stam”, this Canadian beauty was born in Kincardine, Ontario and raised on a farm with her six brothers. She was discovered in a Tim Hortons
coffee shop in Barrie by an agent from International Model Management, a local modeling agency. Stam won the Los Angeles Model Look Search in 2002 and soon after, photographer Steven Meisel cast her in all of his campaigns, jump-starting her career. Since then, she has appeared in advertisements for Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui, Gucci, Giorgio Armani, Vera Wang, Valentino, Miu Miu, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Holt Renfrew, Dior, Lanvin, Roberto Cavalli, Prada, H&M and DKNY.

Daria Werbowy

Born in Poland, Daria moved to Mississauga, Ontario, when she was 3 years old. At the age of 14, she won a national modeling contest, but was unsatisfied
with her current agency. After switching to Elite Models, she was met with considerable success in Canada, but was still internationally unknown. When Elmer Olsen, Elite Canada’s head scout, started his own agency, Werbowy followed him and her career
flourished. Within a few years, and under the guidance of International Management Group (IMG), Daria experienced the success she wanted. She has worked with international powerhouses like Lancôme, David Yurman, Prada, Yves Saint Laurent, Pepe Jeans, Gucci, Roberto Cavalli, Hermès, Valentino,
Missoni, Versace, Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Daria also holds the record for opening and closing an astounding
twelve shows in 2005, the highest number held by any model in one season.

When we hear the term “top model”, we often think of international supermodels like Tyra Banks, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Gisele Bu?ndchen. Canadian models can sometimes be overlooked, but that is all about to change. In fact, internationally-acclaimed model Linda Evangelista was raised in St. Catharines, Ontario and Chanel runway favourite Shalom Harlow was born and raised in Oshawa, Ontario. Over the years, they have become two of the most recognized faces in the fashion industry. Now, a new generation of Canadian models are taking the fashion world by storm. Here’s a look at Canada’s top models and how they got their start.

Coco Rocha

Coco Rocha was born in Toronto, but moved to Richmond, British Columbia at a young age. She was discovered at age 14 during an Irish dance competition.
In 2006, she walked the runway for Marc Jacobs and Anna Sui during New York Fashion Week, where supermodel Naomi Campbell claimed Rocha was her favourite new model. During Paris Fashion Week that same year, she walked for Stella McCartney, Christian Lacroix, and Emanuel Ungaro, and was chosen specifically by Marc Jacobs to open and close the Louis Vuitton show. Rocha is perhaps most well-known for Irish dancing down the runway for Jean-Paul Gaultier’s Fall/Winter 2007 show, which American Vogue called the “Coco Moment”.

Irina Lazareanu

Irina Lazareanu was born in Romania and moved to Saint-Hubert, Quebec at the age of 5. She moved to London, England at the age of 15 to study ballet, until a broken knee abruptly ended her dreams. There she met Pete Doherty and the two were briefly engaged. At age 17, Lazareanu attended an open call and signed with Giovanni Modeling Agency in Montreal. However, it wasn’t until she was chosen by Kate Moss to model for Vogue Paris that her career began. Since then, she has modelled for Chanel, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Anna Sui, Lanvin, Versace, and many other top designers. In 2007, Kate Moss chose Irina to model for her Topshop clothing line.

Photos from
www.Makeupbeat.com
images.nymag.com
uneidecommeca.com
spe.fotolog.com

has made its way to Toronto. Jennifer Garner, Jessica Alba, Halle Berry, Sienna Miller and many other A- list celebrities love the feel and quality of this jean- its available at Holt Renfrew, Aritzia and TNT – so try it out – all the celebs have taken a liking to it!

Euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance line

This past January at the Interior Design Show, Aaren Williams showcased “Living a Bathroom Dream,” a 700 sq. ft. exhibit inspired by the Euphoria Calvin Klein fragrance line. A fabulous space that was the talk of the show!

Hobo Groups Yellow Daisy Bag

Jeanne Lottie’s got some great stuff for the upcoming spring season. The new Hobo Groups Yellow Daisy Bag is perfect for the new season and incredibly cute! An FW thumbs up – we love it as it awakens our inner hippie flower child! Stay tuned at www.jeannelottie.com for updates and to shop online!

Thomas Sabo

has already made a big hit in Toronto- now, the brand’s new Spring Summer 2010 line has a bit for every kind of customer. They have accessories in the Seasonal, Rebel at Heart and Classic genres – truly extraordinary pieces, delicate yet innovative!

LipoSonix

Tired of tummy fat? LipoSonix is a new innovation to sculpt your body back to shape! The LipoSonix system is the first and only treatment available in Canada that uses high intensity focused ultrasound to produce a thermal effect. In other words, “heat is used to destroy fat tissue,” explained Jonah Shacknai, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation.

Dermalogica Bridal Skin Ready

is a great 5-step program for any new bride out there who wants to look fresh and cleaned up for her big day and the days to come! With cleansing, exfoliating, toning, moisturizing and giving it a final firm multi-vitamin boost- your skin will feel alive and young. It’s the number one product for skincare professionals all over the world why should you not enjoy thebenefits too? To learn more please visit ww.dermalogica.ca.

Product Reviews

Nutmeg and Vanilla lip balm

The Body Shop’s Nutmeg and Vanilla lip balm will keep your lips soft and shimmering. The nutmeg makes it a little spicy but not too over the top, and the vanilla compliments the sweet cinnamon-nutmeg flavor. The sweet lip balm warms your lips, and leaves it moisturized and delicate. The adorable tin packaging also makes it easy to access and pop off. If you need a little shine on your lips, this is definitely the right lip balm! – Amiee Wu

Stay Matte Clarifying Foundation

The new line of products from Rimmel features Stay Matte Clarifying Foundation, a foundation designed to keep skin matte and smooth for 12 hours all while clearing it with their “skin complex” formula. The foundation is fragrance-free, and includes soothing ingredients such as cucumber extract and skin clearing salicylic acid. Having sensitive skin myself, I knew this was right down my alley. The foundation blends flawlessly with the skin and really does keep your face matte, almost like there is no product on it at all. Coverage wise, there could be more in terms of evening out redness and blemishes, however, wearing it under a powder concealer or mineral powder creates a long lasting finish. The product itself comes in a convenient slim tube, perfect for throwing in your purse or even a clutch.
Whether you are looking for a light coverage foundation, which is kind toyour skin, or a product to help keep your face looking fresh all day, Rimmel Stay Matte Foundation is a smart buy. – Sara Ghadaki

Hope in a Tube High-Density Eye and Lip Firming Cream

Philosophy’s Hope in a Tube High-Density Eye and Lip Firming Cream is more than hope in a tube; it is a necessity for any woman who wants to enhance her skin appearance around the eyes and lips, while reducing lines and wrinkles. I love the simple design of the tube. The cream dispenses out of a shapely slender tube, ensuring the right amount is applied to skin. The smell of the product is soft, yet still has a fresh aroma.
This product is perfect for my sensitive skin because of the smooth and thick texture, which moisturizes my skin instantly when I apply it with my fingertips. An extra-added bonus of Philosophy’s eye and lip cream is the improved appearance of my skin, which I noticed only after a few uses. Along with diminishing eye lines, the cream restores skin lines around the dark circles of tired eyes. It provided my lips with outer moisturizing around the mouth, making my skin feel smooth and soft. The silky cream made my eyes and lips feel rejuvenated while gently firming and tightening my skin. – Ashley Greene

Honey and Ylang Ylang Body Cream

This fragrant cream from the Rocky Mountain Soap Company is ideal for those with dry skin. Body Cream with honey and ylang ylang is best used after a shower or bath. The results are dramatically better when used after washing compared to use on dry skin where the cream required constant rubbing into the skin. Natural ingredients such as grapefruit seed and lavender leave a soft and citrus smell long after application. – Vanessa Manno

Sparkle Roller Ball

The Sparkle Roller Ball from The Body Shop is a great addition to any outfit for a night on the town! Roll it on top of your eye-shadow for a dramatic look or on your arms for an extra touch of shimmer that lasts all night. While not entirely suitable for the workplace or a casual dinner, this product is great when you want to add drama and lots of shine to your look. Blending into the crowd is not an option when you roll on the sparkles since you’re sure to be the center of attention with the Sparkle Roller Ball! After a long, hard week, we all deserve a chance to sparkle
and shine. – Souzan Michael

Botanical Cleanser

lavigne organic skincare has a cute an useful products that can be checked out at www.lavigneorganics.com. FW tested out their Botanical Cleanser-it felt clean, soft and fresh and even took off make up. This is a great natural product to try out.

Lavigne Organic Skincare

The Body Shop’s Define and Sparkle Eye Liner is a dual ended stick loaded with goodies. On one end, there is a liquid liner with subtle shimmer. Unlike many of the liquid liners on the shelves these days, this one actually stays on all day. The brush applicator is perfect for control application. On the opposite is topcoat mascara with lots of sparkle. This should not be worn during the day, as it may be too much of a look, but it’s perfect for transitioning your day look to your party look. – Medge Beauvoir

Photos from www.BodyShop-usa.com / www.RimmelLondon.com

Photos from www.RockyMountainSoap.com / www.BodyShop-usa.com / www.find-help.us

Photos from www.lavigneorganics.com / www.thebodyshop-usa.com39

By: Souzan Michael, FW Writer

If you haven’t already discovered the chic fashions of Cherry Blossom, you’re in luck. Fashion Weekly talks to Ryerson grads Sasha Hamilton and Courtney Munden about combining their love for fashion and the environment.

FW: How and when did Cherry Blossom begin?
S & C: Both of us are big fans of the book “Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things” [and] after attending a lecture by one of the authors, Michael Braungart, we couldn’t stop thinking that [we] needed to do something. We agreed that the fashion industry needs to be careful in the way it’s proceeding with sustainable design. Designers and companies use organic cotton but then the fabric is dyed with harmful chemicals and the majority of the time ethical production methods are overseen. About a year and a half ago we decided to make a collection that, rather than just using renewable or recycled fabrics, considers the entire process – from the collection of the raw materials to the disposal or reuse of all components of the product.
As well as promoting social responsibility, local industries and the use of new, innovative technologies and textiles, we wanted to prove that [we] can make a really cool, fun, wearable collection the right way.

FW: Why do you think it’s important to create an eco-friendly line?
S & C: It’s easy to create beautiful clothes, but the challenge is making beautiful clothes that are also making a positive impact on the world. The fashion industry can be very superficial and frivolous, which neither one of us really supports, but [by] creating an eco-friendly clothing line we are able to express our creativity and push a positive message about the environment and ethical business practices which have grown to be what is most important to us.

FW: How would you describe the Canadian fashion industry, particularly in Toronto? Is there anything you would change about it?
S & C: The Canadian fashion industry is very challenging. It is a very small and competitive industry to be in and while Canada has many great, talented designers, many leave this country to ultimately find success in the US or Europe. With the rich diversity that Toronto has to offer, and the talented designers that live within this city, I think the Canadian fashion industry has a bright future.

FW: Describe Cherry Blossom’s style philosophy.
S & C: Cherry Blossom is aimed to fulfill the edgy, girly side of women. We look at the juxtaposition of 2 styles; young girly details like bows and frills and then mix it with the raw sex appeal of rock and roll. Women want to feel feminine and sexy, but at the same time in control and unique, and this is what Cherry Blossom aims to [do]. We offer sexy, girly clothes which would make an alternative rocker feel like a woman, and edgy details that make the average woman feel as though she could kick some ass. It is a fine line, but Cherry Blossom fuses these two worlds seamlessly.

FW: What are your favourite pieces in the line?
S & C: [T]he structured woven dress which uses eco-intelligent polyester (a polyester which can be put into a continuous production cycle that will never end up in a landfill and does not release harmful chemicals during the recycling process) and our 100% biodegradable distressed leggings. [T]hey work so well together with the [combination] of the feminine flowing lines of the dresses and the deconstructed rocker leggings.

FW: What are you working on right now?
S & C: Currently we are trying to expand our knowledge in sustainable and ethical design.
Courtney is working with different designers in Toronto and Sasha is working with a women’s sewing cooperative in Rwanda, learning different methods of incorporating ethical production practices into a clothing line while working to increase economic development in Africa. To learn more, please visit www.inezacooperative.wordpress.com.

FW: Where do you see Cherry Blossom in 10 years?
S & C: In 10 years, it would be a dream to have a full-fledged fashion line selling in boutiques and seeing the public wearing our clothes. We are always on the look out for new ideas that could be incorporated into sustainable fashion and are eager for the textile industry to become more innovative in terms of sustainable textiles so that we can further develop the clothes we make.

By: Souzan Michael and Vanessa Manno

On Thursday, February 11th the fashion world suffered a tremendous loss when British designer Lee Alexander McQueen was found dead in his London apartment. McQueen took his life a day before his mother’s scheduled funeral and his untimely death has shocked his fans, family and colleagues. Known for his provocative designs and runway shows, the ‘bad boy of British fashion’ once claimed that “[i]t’s good to leave the audience in bewilderment”, which he undoubtedly succeeded in doing throughout his career. In 1996, McQueen was appointed as head designer of Givenchy, following John Galliano, and stayed with the brand until 2001. He has won the British Fashion Designer of the Year four times between 1996 and 2003, along with the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and was named International Designer of the Year at the CFDA Awards. McQueen was also the first designer to partake in MAC’s promotion of cosmetics by fashion designers. His trend-setting and often controversial designs have awed fans and critics alike and his death has left the fashion world truly heartbroken.

“Celebrities and designers from all over the world shared their memories and admiration of Alexander McQueen, showcasing that he was not only a brilliant designer, but a great friend to many.”

Kate Moss: “Kate is shocked and devastated at the tragic loss of her dear friend Lee McQueen. Her thoughts are with his family at this sad time.” (Kate Moss’ spokesperson)

Sarah Jessica Parker: “I am shocked and overcome with grief upon learning about the untimely death of the quiet genius Alexander McQueen. My heart goes out to his family and all those who worked for and with him. Every single inspired, original, lofty, whimsical, stunning, brilliant and jaw dropping detail was Alexander McQueen. There has never been anyone like him. And there simply never will be. What is more devastating is that despite all his success thus far, creatively, critically and commercially, his greatest achievements lay ahead of him. The future would be whatever he hoped to make of it. God speed Lee. It has been a privilege for all of us to know you. You will be indescribably missed.”

Rachel Zoe tweeteed: “I can’t describe the tragic loss of such a brilliant man and designer Alexander McQueen..R.I.P xo RZ”

Marc Jacobs: “He is such a great guy and such an amazing talent that it is so devastating to know he is gone. We have a lot of mutual friends and some of them are working here, and everybody is walking around crying today, so it’s been a little sad. I will miss him, and I will certainly miss the beauty that he created, and his vision and his world.”

Karl Lagerfeld: “It’s a loss for the fashion industry. His story was one of success and talent, but that may not be enough to keep you alive.”

Anna Wintour, Vogue Editor-in-Chief: McQueen was “one of the greatest talents of his generation … In such a short career, [his] influence was
astonishing – from street style, to music culture and the world’s museums. His passing marks an insurmountable loss.”

McQueen told the February issue of Love magazine “I’m 40 now, but I want this to be a company that lives way beyond me, and I believe that customers are more important in making that happen than press. When I’m dead, hopefully this house will still be going. On a spaceship. Hopping up and down above earth.”

Spring 1998 – One of McQueen’s draw dropping collections showed during the spring of ’98. Not only were the tailored clothing, which McQueen was so famous for, breathtaking but McQueen unleashed rain on the runway. Following this show with the torrential downpour were collections with caged wolves and life size chess games, McQueen was a magician and created magic on the runway.

Spring 1999 – McQueen fuses mad science and fashion at his S/S 1999 show. Placing infamous model Shalom Harlow on a revolving platform in a strapless while dress, two robotic arms splashed the garment in yellow and black spray paint. McQueen’s creative genius was captured once again through the art of the runway.

Fall 2006 – Alexander McQueen closes his F/W 2006 show with a haunting hologram of Kate Moss and takes his bow at his S/S 2006 show donning a t-shirt that reads “We Love You Kate“. Kate was McQueen`s muse and close friend. It has been said that after Moss’ drug scandal, it was McQueen who revived the model‘s career. The two were not mere colleges but genuine friends.

17 March – 11 February 2010

No stranger to the Red Carpet, McQueen dressed many of Hollywood’s starlets in ball gowns at events from movie premiers to charity
balls. Here, along side friend SJP at The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala in New York City, May 2006.
Others include Cameron Diaz (Shrek 3 Premiere, Tokyo, May 2007), Rihanna (Inglourious Basterds Premiere, London, July 2009) and Anna Paquin (Screen Actor’s Guild Awards, Los Angeles, January 2010).

(Picture courtesy of@ LadyGaga, Twitter.com) – With no words to describe the loss of such a close friend, Lady Gaga posted this picture of McQueen and herself via twitter. Known as one of McQueen’s recent muses, Lady Gaga and McQueen joined creative forces to send the fashion and music world on a whirlwind adventure this past year.
Moments before the S/S 2010 show, Lady Gaga announced she would be performing her new single, ‘Bad Romance’ on McQueen’s runway. Soon after, Lady Gaga’s video for the single was released, where each ensemble was designed and styled by McQueen.

Blog: http://foryoursatisfashion.com/

1. What originally inspired you to start foryoursatisfashion? What does it mean and when did you start it?

I started my blog September of 2009 and my music started February 21st. What originally inspired me to start satisfashion. This may sound a little bit cheesy, but it was when I saw bryanboy and how he was doing all his stuff and talking about fashion. I always loved fashion. Fashion has always been a big part of my life because of my mom. She would have her label and I would use to watch her do all the good stuff. So basically what inspired me are the motivation of bryanboy and the backup of my mom. I knew the knowledge of fashion but I just didn’t know what to do with it so seeing other bloggers, it motivated me to do the same.

2. What is the role of bloggers in the fashion industry? Do you think it’s going to grow?
Literally, I think its literary outlets for designers.
It’s like how the world turns, you always need that cycle. The past season was at its peak. Fashion bloggers are like free advertising, and designers will go to them and it will connect the content. Now we have had all the fun with that, it’s time to get to business, so fashion bloggers are now going to do the business side.

3. What does a typical day look like for you?
A boring day for me is literally, on the computer all day. Finding any new blogs, new people to connect with, and networking. I sit at the computer from when I wake up to when I go to sleep. To me twitter is the most important thing I have for the blog because my blog posts are connected to twitter.
4. How do you build such a large amount of twitter followers?

Originally, my persona (Jay Strut) right now started February 3rd 2009. It started with music on myspace then it evolved to my blog and twitter, and then my fashion blog came forth. And now that’s what I focus 75% of my time on. I try to follow people that follow me because I like to connect with people.

5. How would you describe your music? Do you plan on releasing an album or signing with a record company any time soon?

I went through a lot last year. Some guy told me to be my manager and he said he said he was going to edit it but I haven’t heard back from him since. I would call my music Kanye West and Lady Gaga’s love child. My music has a lot of inspiration from Lady Gaga. Not only her music but her fashion and liberation. I always look at her vintage performances because those are the best. I try to make my music as energetic as possible. I have my slow-med tempo songs but I love the beat. I want the bass to explode when I’m performing. Two things that really inspired me to get on stage is when I was at a club in Oakville summer 2009 when they started playing my song and at the American Apparel Rummage sale. I felt like I did something right and that made me really happy.

6. Do you want to pursue more music or more fashion?

I have to do both. Music and fashion are so vital to each other. It’s the best of both worlds. I also do a lot of sketches at home and make music in my basement. I want to do both. If I am presented the opportunity, I would have to go with music first because music is so hard to get into, and I always can do blogging on the road. I will try to fit both in as much as possible.

7. Who’s your fashion icon and why?

Kanye West and Lady GaGa are on top of the list, followed by Michael Jackson. Rihanna, and Prince. I would try to be a fusion of all of them.I love Lady GaGa, and how she is so open about her fashion and how Kanye West has a classy and tailored take on urban style. Michael Jackson because of his hair mainly, and the same with Rihanna. Prince, because he is spontaneous and crazy colors. I want to be bold like them in what I wear and also in life too. Before 2009, I was too shy and I have been shy my whole life. Coming to the city, made me grow out of my shell.

8. Who are your favorite designers? And what 2010 S/S collection did you like best?

Orschel Read does a couture line for men, and it’s amazing. I also like Gareth Pugh, Alexander Wang. I recently got into Hugo Boss because ofFashionably Yours. I also love Jeremy Scott, Karl Lagerfield and Chanel, Balmain, and Lady Gaga’s Haus of Gaga. One of my big goals is to get a piece of Balmain and next big goal is to get a cole de chien from Hermes. I love Burberry Prorsum from Spring 2010, David Elfin’s blue tailored suits for men and women, and Alexander Wang.
9. What are your favorite blogs and websites?

Bryanboy, I look for him for motivation and a funny response. I also read Kate loves me, fashiontoast, and a lot of the main stream big ones. In terms of Toronto, I go to Danielle Meder’s finalfashion, Anita’s I want- I got, and online magazines like Fashion Weekly. I also check out my money bags, bagaholic, and Jak and Jill.

10. What are some of your shopping spots in Toronto? What is your key fashion item?

My favorite shopping spots in Toronto is Bloor Street and I’m not afraid to say this but the sales section of Holt Renfrew. They have the smallest sizes and the biggest sizes and the most weirdest things that the Canadian that are unwilling to step out of their box, and won’t buy. I also like Queen Street’s Fashionably Yours (http://fashionablyyours.ca/), because they have amazing stuff at a very affordable price. And also, H&M, Urban Outfitters,
and Forever21. Hermes cuff is my key fashion item that I won’t leave the house with.

11. What are some of your goals and plans for 2010?

To take fashion week Toronto by storm, to start performing in Toronto, and to liberate myself. Turning 19, I can finally be myself 100%. Finally, I’d like to thank those that give me feedback and show support in that even if it’s negative. It’s all motivation for me.

By Myriam Bouchenafa, FW Writer

I know, winter is killing us all. It is usually that time of the year where we all feel down. There is nothing we can do about it, but here’s the good news: to all Fashionistas, be aware Spring is going to be HOT! We now have something to look forward to. Start planning, start looking, start saving! Here are the FIVE BEST LOOKS we are loving.
From very soft and natural shades to bright colours, no one is left behind. Let’s get playful with colours and floaty dresses! But here’s the deal no matter what you are wearing, if you are going for the shorts or the micro dress, the It item you need to complete your perfect spring 2010 is the Burberry Trench. Perfect timing! Burberry has just launched a whole new collection with different designs. The Spring 2010 collections are complete and are about to bring the best in each and every woman out there!
Here, at Fashion Weekly, we selected the looks we fell in love with and want to share them with you.
Have a look…

BY: Gemma Gadher, FW Writer

Following the example set by Andy Warhol and Edie Sedgwick in the sixties, you are not a proper designer unless you have your very own muse.
The role of the muse originated from a sisterhood of Greek goddesses who inspired the creative process. These days, muses come in the form of Agyness Dean to Henry Holland, or Sienna Miller to Matthew Williamson. Ironically enough- Sienna played original muse Edie Sedgwick in the film Factory Girl! Muses are not necessarily the most beautiful girls around but they do, however, possess the ability to look stylish at all times.
One muse, Isabella Blow, turned the table on this trend – finding the talent instead of them finding her. The late stylist served as a muse to both hat designer Philip Treacy and the now late Alexander McQueen. Proving her support to him, she bought McQueen’s entire school collection for £5,000 and even took Treacy into her home after discovering him.
Designers will not always stick with a muse forever – just look at Matthew Williamson. His original inspiration was Kate Moss, but she was soon ditched in favour of rock royalty Jade Jagger. He then swapped her for stylish Bay Garnett before switching to singer Kelis.
Williamson seemed to be settled on Sienna Miller as his muse but he has apparently dumped her for model Astrid Munoz.
It works both ways though and muses can also switch allegiances.
Lady Amanda Harlech famously ended her 12 years of inspiring John Galliano in favour of Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel. Apparently when Galliano left Givenchy for Dior the label could not match the perks offered by Chanel.

Eleven years on those perks included a permanent suite at the Paris Ritz, which Lady Harlech uses to store her couture clothes.
As well as inspiring designers, muses can also be used to make the clothes look good. Late designer Halston had an entourage, “Halstonettes,” famously leggy women such as Elsa Peretti and Liza Minnelli who would accompany him to the legendary club Studio 54.
Some designers like to keep it in the family when it comes to muses, such as Gianni Versace and his sister Donatella, or Christopher Kane and his sister Tammy. Others use writers or editors, no doubt wanting a career boost. Stephen Jones looks to fashion writer Anna Piaggi for inspiration but it is Tom Ford who no doubt has the muse to end all muses. The former Gucci creative director muse is none other that French vogue editor Carine Roitfeld.
In our opinion, being a muse and getting paid in designer clothes and hotel suites for nothing more than inspiring someone sounds like a dream come true. Maybe its time to look into whether Karl is in the market for a new one!

Marc Jacobs and muse,
Sofia Coppola

One of the most famous muses:
Calliope, Greek muse of Epic Poetry

PHOTOS from
www.imagesGoogle.ca
www.SkullCull.files.wordpress.com
www.Coquette.blogs.com

By: Ayesha Faruqui, FW Writer63

NEW MOON
Stephenie Meyer.
New York. Little, Brown and Company; 2006. 563

Bella is celebrating her 18th birthday at the Cullen family residence. Dr. Carlisle Cullen, his wife Esme, and their five adoptive children, Emmet, Rosalie, Alice (who can see the future), Jasper (who can control anyone’s emotional climate) and Edward (mind reader) are the attending guests. Seven vampires (who have sworn off Human blood) and an accident-prone girl in very close proximity, with no other witnesses can be an iffy situation and here is why. Bella gets a paper cut while opening her present and Jasper, who is having the hardest time adjusting to this life of abstinence, attacks her (think sharks smelling blood scenario).
Edward protects Bella yet again but also realizes that she will never be safe in his world so he tells her he cannot see her anymore and he and his family leave Forks. What follows are a few pages with the name of successive months on them (indicating time lapse, thank god we didn’t have to hear Bella whine some more). But in comes Jacob Black. Jacob is the son of Quileute tribe chief Billy Black, who in turn happens to be a very close friend of Bella’s father. Jacob brings Bella back to life by being a good friend, all the while falling slowly in love with her. Bella, however, realizes that every time she does something reckless Edward materializes before her eyes and warns her to be careful and so she does it all the more till the point she decides to cliff dive. Alice sees her falling and misinterprets her vision as Bella’s death so Edward decides to kill himself too.
Bella rushes to save Edward and faces the Volturi (Vampire Royalty and Law upholders). Victoria plays hide and seek throughout the book and oh yeah…Jacob has a secret other than his feelings for Bella! Jacob Black is a Werewolf! If u could stomach the first one, the second is definitely a breeze compared to it. Do not give up my friends, read on!

Eclipse
Stephenie Meyer
New York. Little, Brown
and Company; 2007. 629

This one is going to be short (to make up for the very long one I am about to write). Eclipse is a Love triangle. Edward, Bella and Jacob. Bella has taken Edward back, or to be more accurate, has returned into Edward’s life, no questions asked, even though he had left her high and dry in New Moon. In fact, upon his return Edward thinks it’s fair to forbid Bella from seeing Jacob again (Vampires and Werewolves are sworn enemies), without considering the fact that it was Jacob who put back the pieces together that were Bella. Bella is split in two, because as much as she loves Edward, she needs Jacob in her life also. This is the first main element of the book, the second is Victoria. She is back and that too with an army of newborn out of control vampires. The Cullens and Quileute Werewolves fight side by side in a battle against the newborns and Victoria and emerge victorious. Bella and Jacob have some intense moments together, which will surely make the readers (team Jacob readers) sigh and hope for something more between the two but alas! Edward wins yet again. Eclipse, despite its lack of substantial action, is positively an up turn from Twilight and New Moon. Our protagonists are becoming complex human beings with emotions other that love and pain. Oh and Bella is finally growing a backbone too!!

Stephenie Meyer. New York. Little, Brown and Company; 2008. 756

Breaking Dawn is split in three volumes. The first book is narrated by Bella (as are all the other previous books). Here she describes her pre-wedding jitters (yes, Edward and Bella are finally tying the knot). They are doing this because Edwards only condition before changing Bella into a vampire himself, through his own venom, is that she marries him first. Jacob is not in the scene because after Bella entirely rejects him in the end of Eclipse Jacob phases in his wolf form and runs away to gain some peace of mind. The wedding takes place and off they go Isle Esme (the island Dr. Carlisle has gifted his wife Esme…didn’t I mention the Cullens are filthy rich?) for their honeymoon. Bella’s only condition for getting married is that she and Edward consummate their marriage while she is still human. All the conditions are met and more…Bella gets pregnant.

The second book is narrated by Jacob, which is a refreshing change after all of Bella’s whining. Well, actually the only change really is that it’s more of a boyish whining now. But still the change in the whiny tone is very welcome, plus Jake is funny! Jacob is looking for a reason to attack the Cullens. He and his Quileute pack brothers will have a good reason to do so if any of the Cullens change Bella into a vampire because of the long standing treaty between them and the Cullens (they are not allowed to hunt or change any human in Forks). When he hears that Bella has returned from her honeymoon and is too sick to meet her father he immediately assumes that she has been turned into a vampire, however when his pack brothers refuse to attack on the basis of speculation, Jacob reaches the Cullen’s residence alone and gets the shock of his life. In just a few weeks Bella is already full term pregnant and seems on the verge of death because her fetus (no one knows what she is carrying) is too strong for her fragile body. They are all devastated, especially Edward.
Jacob’s pack decides to attack the Cullens for this but Jacob resists and thus becomes the leader for his own pack of three. He protects Bella till she almost dies giving birth to Renesmee (Renee and Esme put together). Edward does everything in his power to save Bella, and all his efforts eventually do work. After this, Jacob’s reason for living is no longer Bella, he leaves dejected, and soon finds another reason for living. Jacob finally moves on!
The third book is Bella again, however, this time we are listening to Bella Cullen, the Vampire mother. She is astounded and astounds the reader with her incredible description of her vampire senses. And at long last, she feels she is strong enough, smart enough and most importantly, beautiful enough for her Edward. She takes to motherhood with great aplomb too. Her world is perfect, she has Edward, Jacob is sticking around being just her friend for a change, and she has the most beautiful, most perfect child. But all good things must come to an end, or almost an end. And this happens when the Cullen family is threatened directly by the Volturi for creating an immortal child. But Renesmee is not an immortal child, a hybrid perhaps but not any danger to the only Vampire law – secrecy. In this book we get to meet a lot of new vampires who have a lot of super powers of their own, which is quite interesting.
Meyer has done a good job of describing individual talents of the vampires but at the same time a lot of them seem like they are done before. For instance Jane and her offensive weapon of inflicting torturous pain on her opponent with just a look is a lot like the ‘Cruciatus Curse’ from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (J.K. Rowling). However, the final scenes of the book; the fight against the Volturi, the unexpected witnesses and the overall ending is absolutely fantastic and a definite must read.
Meyer has told a story of great intrigue and excitement. It should definitely be read, especially by romantics because of the loving and intricate relationships created by her. The movies are always a plus and so far very true to the matter (if not emotion) of the book. Go out, get yourself a set of these or put it on a wish list, and get ready for an action packed romantic journey of an ordinary girl to an extraordinary destination!

PRADA

For all you fashion lovers this book may as well be your holy grail. Featuring
fashion, architecture and film of over three decades by the Prada
legendaries, this book is an art piece in itself. Flipping through one can review over 4000 photographs, photo essays, blogs, celeb coverage and the breathtaking advertisement campaigns. It’s a collector’s piece that can be a great gift, an excellent conversation piece on your coffee table and an archival encyclopedia of information and knowledge for the fashion junkie.

Books do Furnish a Room
by Leslie Geddes-Brown

This book is a catalogue of all the different ways book lovers live. There are those who decorate a room with accents of books to make the room look sophisticated and classy. Others choose to dedicate entire walls to books, entire rooms to books and their entire household with books. Seeing these images in the digital age of today is uplifting- the book lover still lives on through their dedication and admiration for books. When decorating a room, the books become a part of the design concept – Geddes-Brown has just simply showed us what is out there This book is yet another great read to add to your collection!