Trisha B

The end of chilly weather is coming soon, meaning summer heat is right around the corner. And if this summer is going to be much like the last, it’s definitely going to be a scorcher. You might get the urge to put your air conditioning on blast, but here are some facts you may not know about the use of our beloved air conditioners.

Its existence has led us to depend on it in times of unbearable heat. It’s been around for many years, which doesn’t generally lead people to think that there are negative outcomes to constant use of it.

Whether you have summer road trips or any sort of travelling via automobile in mind for the upcoming season, the last thing you’ll probably want to do is sit in a car without air conditioning. The most common result to being an avid air conditioner user is the affect it has on your respiratory system. The sudden changes in temperature can lead someone to develop flu-type systems like runny noses. The unnatural cold environment that you would sulk in daily has the potential to weaken your immune system.  Air conditioners also don’t generally act as humidifiers so it can make air dry leading to dry skin and mucous membranes.

While using A/C in cars doesn’t pose any serious health risks, avoiding it when you can (like when it’s not too hot) is still better for your health. There’s no real alternative to keeping the interiors of your car cool that would be as effective as air conditioners. Some options can be keeping the windows rolled down or the sunroof open; or opting for more tinted windows can help to deflect the heat from the sun. If you’re a dedicated A/C user, make sure to keep it properly maintained. And when turning on the A/C upon entering the car, make sure to keep the windows open at the same time for a few moments to release the heat air that’s been trapped inside, helping to cool the air a lot faster.

By Trisha B

With over 250+ stores, Yorkdale mall is known to be one of the most premier shopping centers in the country. Located within the GTA, you can find big-name, international exclusives such as Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Tory Burch, Coach, and many more. Thanks to the completion of their 145,000 additional square footage renovation last fall, Yorkdale now has more high-end retailers like Ted Baker London, Kate Spade New York, Anthropologie, Ann Taylor, and several other stores that are not only first to set up shop in Toronto, but new to Canada. Also, some other stores coming to Yorkdale within 2013-2016 are Zara Home, Salvatore Ferragamo, AllSaints, Mulberry, and Nordstrom.

For this month’s issue of Fashweekly, we had the opportunity to partner up with Yorkdale to showcase the hottest spring looks with the mall’s very own Ann Taylor, Ted Baker London, and Topshop.

Perfect for transitioning from day to night, Ann Taylor provides versatile clothing that is work-appropriate yet chic enough to transition to nightwear. Their garments vary from suitings to dresses to everyday blouses, trousers, and skirts. Their spring and summer collections consist of an array of colours like mint blues, vivid yellows, and hot pinks, as well as loads of patterns and colourblocking on many of their pieces. 

Originating from the UK, Ted Baker London brings to Canada fashion forward clothing for both men and women. The brand gives elegance to women in the form of garments with simple fabrics, smart silhouettes and mixtures of vivid colours, and bold prints – like their spring/summer signature: the ever-so-colourful orchids.

Exclusive to The Bay, Topshop has been a much sought-after store for years, having only been available to Canadians via online shopping or visits to our neighbouring country, U.S.A. until about a couple of years ago.  Topshop is more so of a street style inspired store. The store carries various different styles from an edgy top to a cute, fun dress to a prom gown. The mix achieves their aim for a ‘cool-girl’ chic look through the different styles that they provide, which creates that unique, individual look.

FW Shopping Guide Checks out YOUR LOCAL SEARS to see all the latest trends!

1-      Graphic printed loose Tops are ideal for transitional weather. Long sleeves keep you covered up of it gets chilly but the fabric is light enough to wear over a set of capris or white pants!

2-      These Jessica Enamel Bracelets are lovely to go with any spring outfit. They add that instant glam factor and only range from $12.97-$14.97

3-      The Lady Stilettos by Attitude Jay Manuel in powder shades are a classy piece to add into your current wardrobe. They can transition from season to season and be paired up with casual looks as well a power look for work. $59.99

4-      Heys Satchel for $69.00 can double as purse, travel bag, laptop case and much more! We love the fun colours and crisp look of it.

5-      Men’s Suede Driving Loafers by Attitude for $79.99 might be on the higher end of your budget but they are super comfortable and make your man’s Sunday relaxed look a tad more refined.

6-      New Berry Conversational Print Dress is pa perfect gift for a niece or a really cute buy for your daughter. It’s only $34.99 and has an old world charm to it. Very elegant for the little fashionista in your life.

7-      Let’s face it, this winter is not leaving and when it does it leave behind slush and rain.  Well with rain comes puddles and we all know little boys love jumping in them. These Nevada Colour block Rain boots are only $17.97 and they can jump all they want- cleaning tip: wipe and go!

8-      For the home maker in you, spring brings the hope of fun family get togethers, barbeques with friends and new plates and glasses for the patio parties. There is a whole collection of mix and match pieces that will last you because they are reusable plastics! A Dinner Plate at $4.97 is not bad when it looks this fab and you don’t need to chuck it out.

9-      For some added glamour invest in a Powder –coated Finish Side table. Once the patio events re over bring it into your children play room as an additional table top or an accent in your kitchen. $99.97

Magdelena K.

Here at Fashion Weekly, we rounded up our favourite places to shop in the vibrant city of Toronto. No matter what your style is, we have you covered. From label lovers to sneaker-obsessed fashionistas, Toronto has a store to meet all your fashion needs. 

WOMEN’S FASHION

TNT, 87 Avenue Road

Bicyclette, 880 Queen Street W.

coal Miner’s Daughter, 587 MARKHAM STREET

Free People, 79 YORKVILLE AVENUE

ShopGirls Boutique, 1342 QUEEN STREET W.

Shop NYLA, 1062 YONGE STREET

HANDBAGS

Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor Street W.

A2Zane, 753 QUEEN STREET W.

Haute Classics, 1454 Yonge Street

Jeanne Lottie, 32 SCOLLARD STREET

ACCESSORIES

far Away Eyes, 295 QUEEN STREET E.

Love of Mine, 781 QUEEN STREET W.

Trove, 791 BATHURST STREET

Social Butterfly Boutique, 315 DANFORTH AVENUE

DLR Clothing and Accessories, 52 VAUGHAN ROAD

SHOES

David’s, 66 BLOOR ST W.

119 Corbo, 119 Yorkville Avenue

Heel Boy, 773 QUEEN STREET W.

Groovy, 323 Queen Street W.

Balisi, 711 QUEEN STREET W.

MAKE-UP AND BODY

Murale, 20 Marie Labatte Road

jacob & Sebastian, 622 QUEEN STREET W.

Art.27, 899 QUEEN STREET WEST

Sephora, multiple locations

The Detox Market, 367 KING STREET W.

By Magdalena Kapela

Adopting a green lifestyle and diminishing my carbon footprint is one thing that I strive to do – I’m just not willing to sacrifice a certain quality of life. Reducing the thermostat a few degrees during the winter months, or making homemade cleaning products isn’t something easy to commit to (I’ve tried both!). So what other ways can one live green and stay fabulous?

According to Earth Day Canada, a national environment communications organization, 70 percent of waste in landfills can be recycled. That’s a significant number! With spring officially here (according to the calendar-not so much weather-wise) it’s time for the annual spring-cleaning to commence. The closet tends to be my first stop; swapping muted winter greys for bright hues. This also tends to be the time I discover a few unused items in my closet; perhaps an impulse buy that doesn’t look so appealing to me anymore, or a pair of skinnies I can no longer get over my thighs. These items need to go. But where? 

Obviously, donating clothes to charity is always a commendable choice; but when you have designer duds or barely-worn clothes on your hands, dumping them into a plastic bin at your local thrift shop can just provoke anxiety. This is where consignment stores come in.

Consignment shops connect your pre-loved items with new owners who will give them a loving new home. Unlike thrift shops, where merchandise is donated, consignment stores offer you a profit in exchange for your designer pieces. The store will take your items and sell them for you. This relieves you from the work and expense involved with selling your merchandise on your own. Once the item is sold, the store will take a percentage.

In addition to being green, the act of consignment is also economical. If you are looking to become the proud new parent of an underappreciated Alexander McQueen bag, you can get it for a fraction of the cost by visiting a consignment store.

Unlike thrift shops and charity shops, consignment stores have pretty rigid rules as to what type of clothing they accept (read: no sweat stains, no tears, no missing buttons). So, when shopping at a consignment shop you can be confident that the merchandise is the best of gently used goods available.

Remember: whether you are consigning or making a purchase through a consignment shop, you’re extending the lifeline of a garment. The longer a garment’s lifeline, the longer it stays out of a landfill. So living green and staying fabulous is in fact an option.

Tips for consigning your duds:

• Do not show up with a garbage bag full of your crap: clothes should be cleaned, pressed, and on hangers or neatly folded.
• Pay attention to detail: secure loose buttons, trim stray threads, and go wild with the lint roller.
• Visit the store or website: this will help you get a better idea of what brands and labels they carry.
• Do your research: each store has different policies and guidelines, so make sure you investigate the shop’s rules.

Consignment shops in Toronto worth checking out:

Haute Classics, 1454 Yonge St. W

Kind Exchange, 611 Queen St. W and 379 Queen St. W

Fashionably Yours, 632 Queen Street W

IMAGE CREDIT: MAGDALENA KAPELA

Sarah Amormino

It’s safe to say that everyone is sick and tired of being sick and tired from this heavy winter that is thankfully, slowly diminishing. With longer days come sunny skies and the shining sun, perfect weather for rounding your friends and family together and hosting a fabulous get together. Afternoon appetizers or an extravagant dinner party- we found some easy and healthy recipes that are bound to leave your guests feeling content and satisfied!

Strawberry Tomato Salad

This unique recipe is easy and elegant! It works as a light first entrée, hearty lunch or nutritious snack.

Ingredients

1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced into very small cubes

1 cup small strawberries, trimmed and diced into very small strips

1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

2 tsp aged balsamic vinegar

¼ tsp sea salt

1 ounce goat cheese, crumbled

Directions

In small mixing bowl, toss together tomatoes, strawberries, oil, vinegar, and salt. Let it marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes. To serve, place the mixture into three-inch diameter pastry rings on individual plates — press to pack lightly. ??Remove the rings delicately, top each salad with goat cheese, and serve.

Jalapeno Kiwi Salsa

The perfect recipe for a night in with a friend or a large group of people! Your guests will be amazed at the tangy taste and flavours of this appetizer.

Ingredients

8 ripe but firm kiwis
1 jalapeño pepper, minced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/8 cup sweet onion, finely chopped
Pinch of sea salt

Directions

Peel the eight kiwis and trim the ends. Finely dice the kiwi. Add all of the ingredients to a small mixing bowl and gently stir together.

Grilled Corn with Lime and Feta

The perfect summer recipe! Pair this with some finger grub or serve it alongside a barbequed dinner. The combination of the salty feta and the pungent lime will leave your mouth watering and your guests wanting more!

Ingredients

4 ears of corn
2 tablespoons reduced-fat mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/8 teaspoon chili powder
2 ounces finely grated feta cheese

Directions

Heat grill to high. Soak corn in cold water, turning occasionally for 10 minutes. Transfer to grill. Cover; cook, turning, until husks are charred (this will take about10 minutes). Once grilled, remove from the heat and with a kitchen towel, pull back husks; remove and discard corn silks. Return corn to grill (with husks pulled back and off heat). Cover; cook, turning, until kernels are charred in spots, 10 to 15 minutes. Combine reduced-fat mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder; brush on cooked corn. Dust with finely grated feta cheese. Season with coarse salt and serve with lime wedges.

Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Who would have known that such a simple recipe could be turned into a gourmet delight. This dish fits the pallets of everyone from expertise foodies to close relatives who are desperate for a classic and comforting bite.

Ingredients

Goat cheese

1/2 onion, sliced thin

4 sliced mushrooms

Your favourite bakery bread

Herb butter (Soft butter mixed with with parsley, thyme, rosemary and chive)

Olive oil

Directions

Sear the onions on a medium heat until they have a rich brown colour. Then, add in your mushrooms to cook – you may need an extra drizzle of olive oil. Lower your heat and cook together for about 10 minutes. After your veggies cook, remove them from the heat and start making your sandwich. Spread one slice of your bread with your butter so it gets a nice golden colour when you cook it. Layer your cheese on the other side of the bread slice, and then top that with your mushroom and onion mixture. Cover with the other slice of bread. Place your sandwich with the butter slice face down in a pan over medium heat. While it’s cooking, spread the top slice with some butter as well so that when you flip it that side will get a nice golden colour. Flip and cook through, then enjoy!

Peanut Butter Banana Pops??

A refreshing snack or a light desert! This recipe is great to make with friends or with the kids. It’s packed with nutrients and tastes just as good as a slice of heaven.

Ingredients?

2 bananas, not overly ripe?

1/4 cup natural peanut butter?

1 cup organic dark chocolate chips?

crushed unsalted peanuts, to coat?

dash of oil?

6 ice pop sticks??

Directions?

Cut the banana into 3-inch sections. Insert an ice-pop stick halfway into each piece. Place on a large plate and put in the freezer for two or three hours to harden. Depending on how oily your peanut butter is, you may want to put it in the freezer for 10-30 minutes before you use it. Once bananas are completely frozen, remove from the freezer (try to avoid handling them too much). Spread a layer of peanut butter over the sides of each piece, avoiding the top and bottom. Once messily coated, you can smooth it out by holding it at the top and bottom with your thumb and forefinger. Drag the knife around the sides, while rotating the banana. Put back in freezer for 30 minutes.??Five minutes before you remove the bananas from the freezer, add the crushed peanuts to a small plate, and melt the chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat. Stir with a spatula until melted, then remove from heat. If the chocolate is thick, add a dash of oil to it. (Do not add water!)??Use the spatula to cover the banana with chocolate. Roll it in the peanuts or sprinkle them on top while still wet. Allow them to dry for a few seconds before placing back on the plate. ??Freeze for another 30 minutes to set. Enjoy frozen!

Lemon Curd

Fresh and sweet, this dessert is perfect for a warm summer night or a mid afternoon treat over tea or a latte. This tart dessert is rich, but won’t leave you feeling sluggish and heavy. The perfect delicacy after a hearty meal.

Ingredients

3 oz. (6 Tbs.) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

1 cup sugar

2 large eggs

2 large egg yolks

2/3 cup fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

Directions

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer, about 2 minutes. Slowly add the eggs and yolks. Beat for 1 minute. Mix in the lemon juice. The mixture will look curdled, but it will smooth out as it cooks. In a medium, heavy-based saucepan, cook the mixture over low heat until it looks smooth. (The curdled appearance disappears as the butter in the mixture melts.) Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. It should leave a path on the back of a spoon and will read 170°F on a thermometer. Don’t let the mixture boil. Remove the curd from the heat; stir in the lemon zest. Transfer the curd to a bowl. Press plastic wrap on the surface of the lemon curd to keep a skin from forming and chill the curd in the refrigerator. The curd will thicken further as it cools. Covered tightly, it will keep in the refrigerator for a week and in the freezer for 2 months.

These recipes will please all- trust us. Happy munching!

By Erika Lobo

A Mom should be treated like a queen every single day of the year, and making her feel special on the day dedicated to mothers around the world is the perfect way to show her how much she really is appreciated. Looking for something different apart from the usual bouquet of flowers, cards and gifts? This is your opportunity to spend quality time with that special woman that has raised you. Nothing says “I Love You” more than a stress free weekend getaway. Here are a few ideas for you:

1. RELAXING GETAWAYS

This mother’s day, send your mom on a rejuvenating weekend holiday, full of spa treatments like mud baths, relaxing full body massages and luxurious accommodations.

- Vintage Hotels Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario

Your mother can have the complete experience of relaxation with a number of packages from bed and breakfasts to a spa escape that includes a three-course dinner plus a $100 credit for a spa. They also have a single day spa special that includes therapeutic messages, body wraps and hydrotherapy. Check out their website for more information at http://www.vintage-hotels.com

- Horseshoe Resort, Barrie

This resort is perfect for a family weekend vacation. During the day there are a number of activities that families can experience together. Take a ‘Hummer Tour’ that is a rugged yet beautiful tour of the area around the resort. Some other fun experiences are treetop trekking and an adventure park that has a number of activities from mini golfing to zip lining. After a day of outdoor activities, spend your evening getting rejuvenated and relaxed at the spa! Check out their website for promotions at http://www.vintage-hotels.com/niagara_getaway_packages.htm?RD=1

2. PAMPERING EXPERIENCE

For daughters, spend an entire day with your mothers relaxing at a salon getting manicures, pedicures, facials, massages and haircuts. Make your Mom feel young and fresh with a new haircut. What better way to bond with her and give her a break from her everyday routine. A day of nothing? I’m sure she could get used to that.

- Wiesia Salon and Spa

Located at 2121 Lakeshore Boulevard West, this salon and spa has everything from facials to body treatments. With up-to-date body treatments, take your pick from a list of European inspired massage. They also give you the option to build your own package. For more information on their packages, visit http://www.wiesiaspa.com/

- Lavender Day Spa

This spa has body massages, organic facials, nails, waxing and other special treatments. With a wide selection of packages, promotions and specials, you can pick one that you think your mother will enjoy best. There is no better place for her rest than a place with relaxing essential oil scents along with massages. Visit http://www.lavenderdayspa.ca/ for more info.

3. DINE LIKE A QUEEN

Treat her to her favourite gourmet cuisine: Chinese, Greek, Indian, Italian, or maybe some Japanese? Pick from a variety of restaurants all over town but make sure to make reservations in advance as they do sell out!

- Lunch/Dinner Cruises

Take your Mom aboard one of the many Toronto cruise lines. Some of them include ‘Jubilee Queen Cruises’, ‘Habour Cruises Toronto’, ‘Toronto Cruise Lines’, and many more. Celebrate Mother’s Day out on the water; 2-3 hours of quality time, relaxation and reconnecting will make for an unforgettable day.

- Incredible Buffets and Dinners

Treat your mom to an unbelievably delicious lunch or dinner at restaurants or hotels in the GTA. Some of the places to consider are ‘Old Mill Toronto Inn and Spa’ which serves a brunch buffet with an incredible spread that ranges from $24-$45. ‘Victoria’s Restaurant’ at the King Edward Hotel and ‘La Brasserie’ at the Crowne Plaza also offer some delicious tastes with its exceptional preparations made by renowned chefs.

Apart from these, there are a number of other things you could do with your Mom to make her feel special on Mother’s Day. Ranging from a day at the zoo or a shopping spree; pick what fits her style!

By Ashley D.

Keeping an “in” in the fashion world means rocking the latest trend. Who has the money to keep up?  Our three favourite words; deals, sales, discounted.  You never have to pay full price for anything anymore. Let’s be honest, friends don’t let friends pay full price.  With a few key apps you can download for free, you will be the smartest and stylist person around town.  E-Closet.ca is a popular website you can follow; they always advertise the latest deals. “Bringing trendy, affordable fashion to your front door” is their motto. They categorize every item to make it easier to shop.  They also give a description of the items and suggest pairing items to make an outfit. With mostly everyone having the Internet a click away on cell phones, E-Closet.ca makes shopping smart and more efficient. You can add apps that will notify you once the perfect Marc Jacobs purse is on sale at half off.  Shopstyle will allow you to score the hottest pair of Steve Madden sandals while walking the dog. Getting notified on items you wish you could have but at a cheaper price is the ultimate satisfaction as a shopper.  Another great website to sign up for is BeyondtheRack.com; Up to 80% off top designer fashions, accessories, beauty and home decor. Sign up for free to these sites or easily download the app to your phone and you will not believe the amount you will save!

 Good luck, happy shopping, and happy saving.

By Erika Lobo

Its time to put away those boring monotones and dull black or grey jackets and add some colour to your wardrobe.  The monochrome trend of black and white stripes was one of the biggest trends seen on the runway for spring/summer 2013. So for those who tend to stick to black clothing during the colder months, you can now transition into spring attire by adding some white elements. The best part about this look is that it is effortless, yet classic and chic.

These stripes can be used in many ways: vertical, horizontal as well as multi-directional. Many have shied away from horizontal stripes as they have been thought to destroy figures as they emphasize the wider parts of the body. However, a single stripe can also be slimming.

This chic look can be worn in bold black and white or you can even mix things up with a few colours like red or royal blue as seen in our street style. Whatever the combination may be, these simple but bold patterns will have heads turning!

Special Eye on Burlington Street Style!

By Taylor

As you walk the streets of Burlington, Ontario you cannot help but see the hot trend this spring of 2013 is the printed pant. Printed pants can be viewed as casual wear or sophisticated.  Burlington is not scared to mix up patterns and fabrics to prolong a fashion forward look.  Printed pants look phenomenal with a simple wedge or heel to accentuate the patterns on the pants. A one coloured necklace is a popular accessory in the Burlington bubble to match the pants. This spring colour is not afraid to walk the streets of Burlington in the fiercest way possible.