Have you ever gazed out of your front window at the car sitting in the driveway and thought to yourself, ‘I wanna dump that mini van, it’s so not me!’ Well if so, you’re in luck! Young fashionista’s, full time moms on the go and busy business women everywhere rejoice, Fash Weekly has found wheels that describe you perfectly and will have you running out the door to your nearest dealership in a flash!

Are you a young, adventurous, out-on-the-town, trendy teen…driving your moms worn out mini van? Well kick that vehicle to the curb, we have got just the car representing you and your fashion forward lifestyle! You are trendy and adventurous, just like the new and improved 2012 Volkswagen Beetle! You’re not just any regular Volkswagen Beetle, you’re the trendy saturn yellow bug of 2012 that will be catching everyone’s eye, on the road and off!

What about you never resting, always moving moms out there! While you’re always nurturing and providing safety, you still love to look glam and we’ve found your match made in car heaven! The Volvo XC90 is the car for you cruising around the suburbs. While providing high-tech safety for you and your precious cargo, the Volvo XC90 looks luxurious while doing so, which makes this car the one for all you hard working moms!

Your ambitious, self-empowered and changing the world one step at a time, you’re the hardworking business woman! You take pride in your work and you’re very reliable. While all these things accurately describe you, they also describe the automobile that is your perfect personality and lifestyle match… the 2012 Toyota Prius V! The Toyota Prius V is a Hybrid Synergy vehicle making it innovative and inspiring to the world, just like you!

Host Catherine Euale
Film Team Sanchia S and Kathlyn G
Hair and Makeup: Shugufta and Mehreen W

Design By Ishtar

By Jacynta

By: Rochelle Cabas

While many consider New York, Paris, London and Italy as the ultimate fashion destinations, Canada is quietly gaining ground. While we may not yet be in the same league as the big four, it is hard to deny the influx of new Canadian bred talent who are forcing industry insiders to stand up and take notice. Known as the hosting city for LG Fashion Week, Toronto is also the market of choice for most budding designers wanting to break into the industry. With such names as David Dixon, Jeremy Laing, Sunny Fong, Philip Sparks and Lucian Matis (just to name a few), Toronto is fast becoming the breeding ground for new talent. One such designer determined to make her mark, is local up-and-coming designer Ashley Zaba.

Born and raised in Barrie, Ontario, Ashley describes herself as having always been creative. She traces her beginnings back to her childhood. Her mother was an avid artist, what with painting, drawing and sewing skating or dance costumes for her children. Throughout her childhood and high school years, Ashley excelled in art and fashion. Her love of designing and sewing spurred her on to continue pursuing an education in Fashion Design, while at Fanshawe College.

Upon graduation, she then made a life-changing decision: she wanted to start her own business. Having never viewed herself as a 9-5, desk job type of person, Ashley says it was a natural progression when it came to starting her own business. She founded her contemporary and innovative clothing label Ashley Zaba in 2008. In addition to various fashion show appearances in Ontario, she has showcased at Ottawa and Boston Fashion Week as well as at the eMERGE tradeshow in Miami. The rest, as they say, is history.

Fashion Weekly recently sat down for a chat with Ashley to learn more about the creative mind behind the growing brand.

When asked about her line, Ashley sums it up as contemporary, modern, colorful, bright, clean lines with a focus on natural fabrics. She goes on to describe the label as a mixture of the sophisticated styles of the past, along with her own personal flair. Her use of shapes and silhouettes in her swimwear and ready-to-wear garments, push the boundaries of what people want to wear. Setting her apart from the crowd is Ashley’s use of environmentally friendly fabrics (hemps, silks and other natural fabrics which are sourced from a reliable company). She also works with fabrics such as jersey, knitwear, leather and experiments with water repellant materials. However the designer laughingly jokes, “I will never work with chiffon!”

In terms of inspiration, Ashley doesn’t limit herself to just designers (though she does admit that Michael Kors is a favourite of hers), magazines and fashion blogs; she also uses her everyday life experiences to draw upon. An avid traveler, she takes inspiration from different countries she has visited or has yet to visit. In fact, her Fall/Winter 2011 collection came about after an extensive layover in the Middle East, where she simply spent the time watching people in the airport and reading the magazines while her previous Spring/Summer line was based on her travels in Colombia. Not surprisingly, international music also plays a role in inspiring the designer, as she lists North American, African and South American as major influences when conceptualizing a garment.

In keeping with the international theme, Ashley hopes to eventually showcase (whether it’s on a traditional runway or an art gallery type setting) outside of North America and Europe. She’s teamed up with fashion bloggers (eg. Lynne Gabriel) in the past, and is looking to expand internationally and collaborate with bloggers in different countries.
“It’s an effective way of getting to know what’s going on around the world. I want to change the perception that you can only succeed in North America. It’s all about being global.”
When asked about upcoming projects, Ashley let us in on a few tidbits. In addition to an upcoming fashion event in Washington, D.C., she is also working on a deal to have select stores in New York City, carry her Spring/Summer collection. While Ashley does look to expand internationally, she wants to continue growing her business here while at the same time, promoting growth in Canada.
As for advice for designers who are starting out, she says that strength, determination and a good support system are key factors to anyone’s success:
“It’s a gradual build. At times it is trying but you have to tough it out and it will eventually come to fruition. You can’t give up, despite the late nights and yes, bleeding fingers. We all have to start out somewhere; I wouldn’t be here today without of the support of others. All the positive feedback and my clients make the struggle a lot easier and realistic. In this business you have to have the drive, I’m a big believer in that, you have to want this business; the limitations only make you want it more!!”
As we drew towards the end of our interview, FW asked Ashley about what it means to be a designer. She had one simple response:
“I don’t have to be a large, superstar fashion designer. I want to be respected for what I do and loved by the people who wear my clothing.”

*The Ashley Zaba collection is currently available through her website and sales rep. For more information about Ashley and where to purchase her clothes, visit www.ashleyzaba.com and www.parkerandpaige.com

Shopping online can be overwhelming at times if you don’t know which sites to shop from. It can then become tedious when you think of shipping rates, tracking orders, duties, and of course, the satisfaction of your purchase when it arrives. The convenience of shopping online has made it easier for everyone because it’s just as simple as a click of a button and credit card to do just that. In case you are unfamiliar, there usually are sales, promotion codes and online exclusives then offered at retail stores so we have chosen the best sites for you to consider while shopping online.

1. Amazon

As one of the leading and known internet shopping destinations, Amazon sells just about anything from electronics, books, clothes, shoes, accessories, and household products just to name a few. Amazon’s making their customers’ shopping experience more convenient by releasing smartphone app. It’s a pretty rad deal considering they ship worldwide!

2. Gilt Group

Gilt Group can be any shoppers dream offering huge discounts on luxury goods for every man and woman by offering something new every day. Initially a shopping destination for American customers, Gilt now provides online shipping to Canadians and it’s about time! Did we also mention that they also offer exclusive travel packages?

3. The Shopping Channel

As if their infomercials weren’t enough, The Shopping Channel has become the site for all your shopping needs. From beauty to jewellery to clothes to even buying the newest workout equipments, TSC also offers the same products online, you know, just in case you missed it on T.V. With a wide range of products to choose from, checkout the best sellers based from customer purchases to see what the hottest products are at the moment.

INTERIOR DESIGN SHOW 2012

The Interior Design Show has been a place for designers, artisans,
decorators, furniture brands and many other industry pioneers to strut
their design concepts. However, this year FW took a different approach to
the show rather than just a media visit. We got to go behind the scenes
and see what goes on in the world of design before it is presented to us!

The only word that can be used to describe the transformation from mere
wooden structures to towers of beauty, innovative design and detailed
thinking is “Magical”! The booths, vendors , workers, staff and IDS12 Team
all put together a collaborative effort in creating a vision for their
viewers. Kicking of with a fun and energetic party on Jan 26th 2012 it was
the night to mingle and rub shoulders with lots of industry professionals.
The show dates ran from January 27-29th offering everyone who visited a
great opportunity to network and build leads. However, looking through the
various forms of booths, it is easy to say that the metamorphosis from
cocoon to butterfly is inspirational and truly design genius. With
designers and industry officials from all over the world this show is by
far the most meticulous and thought out show and for that is deserves a
hats off to the IDS12 Team who should also be known as design visionaries
because they create the dreams we may vision but cannot materialize.

By: Sanchia Saha

Couture has never been so feminine and in. The spring 2012 couture shows in Paris debuted copious amounts of lace, organza, and billowing ball gowns. Famed houses of Versace, Dior and Eli Saab brought back glamorous in all forms– embellished, refined, or otherwise outrageous.
While many have waited with bated breath as to what Versace, after an eight year hiatus, would bring, she did not disappoint. At the grand salon of the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, the acclaimed Left Bank school, models for Atelier Versace slinked down steps to showcase glittering gowns, many accented with clear plastic and shiny metal details while their shorter counterpart included luxe rompers and space age jackets. Contrasting all the sparkle were dresses in beautiful bright lemon, tomato red and green apple while high slicked back ponytails and dark, heavily shadowed eyes completed every look. Ms. Versace has redefined haute glamour.
There is a reason why screen legends such as Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe are immortalized fashion icons: they emulate classic sophistication and timeless glamour. Christian Dior’s Bill Gaytten revamped their signature New Look after last season’s disappointment; with an other-worldly feel, the designer pulled looks from the houses’ 1947 collection, which had introduced the new ladylike look and has been repeated many times since its inception. Models slow strutted in silk crepe silhouettes with nipped waists, classic A-line bar suit in sheer silk and full skirt, intricately embroidered black silk dresses and the show stopping floor-length scarlet organza finale dress.

Eli Saab’s 2012 collection was, in one word, feminine. Whimsical pastels and flowing girly fabrics decorated with rosettes, lace and sparkle made this runway a moving fairytale. With hints of 1950s and ‘60s it was both delicate and understatedly splashy. The use of a beautiful soft palette – frosty and saccharine made for a couture collection focused heavily on detail with its intricate lacework and romantic floral appliques. Elie Saab presented a dreamy fairytale with crystal embellished floor length gowns and short fanciful confections in powder blue, lemon yellow, peppermint and candy floss pink – fit for a modern day princess.

It may be a fad or it may stay, but the hottest thing people are turning to is organic and eco- friendly products. Sweetcream Organic Skin Care is a fresh take on making the right choices that will last a life time rather than just current trend reports!
We caught up with Lisa Allison, the face behind this brand and asked her what sets her apart, why should we care about being 100% natural when it comes to products for our skin and where can we find this super cute line?
Sweetcream Organic Skin Care www.sweetcreamorganic.com came into existence roughly over a year ago but the concept was in Lisa’s life well before that.

Few years earlier she discovered that all the things we were bombarding our skins with -were very toxic. She decided she was going to produce a line that would make skin care still girly and fun but at the same time be good for you. Lisa says that the creams and products you apply to your skin should be so pure that you would, “almost be able to eat them!”
That’s fascinating- edible lip balm? Why not! It is on our lips for most of the day and body balms do soak into our skin so why can’t we digest the other shelf brands- that’s because they are loaded with chemical ingredients.

Lisa explained that before launching her brand she spent several months doing trial studies and tests on focus groups to get feedback on the mixes of ingredients she put together. When she got the go signal for team members and trail studies confirming that all her plant based ingredients were making successful combinations- she set out to launch her product line.

One of the most innovative things Lisa has done with the launch of Sweetcream Organic Skin Care is that she has eliminated the middle man by not placing her products in stores , but having them available 24/7 on the website www.sweetcreamorganic.com. The products only range from $5- $24 and shipping usually remains in the $10 budget which makes these products easily available and very affordable for being 100% natural, 100% chemical free and 100% plant based products.

Lisa also told us that when we read words we cannot pronounce in the ingredients of products- most of the time that’s a red flag! Her products will read ingredients like cucumber peel extract or grape seed oil- we can all relate to that and it’s much more comforting to know that what is in the cream is something we know of rather than a chemical we have never even seen! These products guarantee a 12 month life and some even longer!
The really chic and stylish packaging is eye grabbing and perfect for gifts, friends, family and on the go! Fashion Weekly would recommend this line to anyone wanting to improve their lifestyle and stick to it!
Lisa told us that in the next 20 years trends will change- just as it’s considered highly hazardous to smoke while being pregnant, so will applying toxic products all over our skins! Wow- something for all of us to think about – let’s make a change not just so we can buy different brands but so that the industry shifts its views and businesses like Sweetcream Organic stand as pioneers in their ethical views!

By: Sanchia Saha

So it’s a new year and you want to start making changes, keep your resolutions – eat healthy and save money are both on that list right? Life does get hectic: work, gym, extra-curricular activities, school or family obligations can hinder some of your most steadfast resolutions.
These 6 easy-to-cook dishes can be prepared in just about 15 minutes and are a quick, fun and healthy alternative to take out or long hours by the stove. So keep your resolutions, keep those changes you wish to see and make 2012 a year of success and good eating!

15 Minute Beef Stew

What you’ll need:
1 lb. boneless sirloin steak, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 lb. bag of frozen stew vegetables thawed and drained (use the microwave to thaw or you won’t make 15 minutes)
15 oz. can of chunky garlic-and-herb tomato sauce
14 oz. can of beef broth
Two 5 1/2 oz. cans spicy V8-type juice

Spray 10 inch non-stick skillet with cooking spray and pre-heat over medium-high heat. Cook beef in skillet for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until brown.
Stir in the remaining ingredients, let it come to a boil for reduce heat. Cover and simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Side note, it is very important to use choice or prime sirloin; otherwise you might find it a bit chewy.
Serve: 6
Recipe via QuickEatsPlus.com.

15 Minute Simple Stir-Fry

What you’ll need:
1 lb. (450 g) MEAT of your choice, cut into thin slices
1 cup sliced carrots
¼ cup Kraft Signature Asian Sesame Dressing
1/3 cup Kraft Barbecue Sauce
1 cup snow peas
¼ cup chopped peanuts

Heat large non-stick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium-high heat.
Add meat and carrots; cook 5 min., stirring occasionally.
Stir in dressing and barbecue sauce; stir-fry 5 min. on medium heat or until carrots are crisp-tender. Add snow peas; cook 2 min. Top with peanuts.
It is suggested to serve over ramen noodles or rice.
Serves: 4
Recipe via Kraftcanada.com.

Broiled Tilapia Parmesan

What you’ll need:
½ cup Parmesan cheese
¼ cup butter, softened
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon celery salt
2 pounds tilapia fillets

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Grease a broiling pan or line pan with aluminum foil.
In a small bowl, mix together the parmesan cheese, butter, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Season with dried basil, pepper, onion powder and celery salt. Mix well and set aside.
Arrange fillets in a single layer on the prepared pan. Broil a few inches from the heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the fillets over and broil for a couple more minutes.
Remove the fillets from the oven and cover them with the parmesan cheese mixture on the top side. Broil for 2 more minutes or until the topping is browned and fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
Serves: 8
Recipe via Allrecipes.com.

Portobello Cheeseburgers

What you`ll need:
2 teaspoons olive oil
4 (4-inch) Portobello caps
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon bottled minced garlic
¼ cup (1 ounce) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
3 tablespoons reduced-fat mayonnaise
4 (2-ounce) sandwich rolls
2 cups trimmed arugula
½ cup sliced bottled roasted red bell peppers

Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle mushrooms with salt and pepper. Add mushrooms to pan; sauté 4 minutes or until tender, turning once. Add garlic to pan; sauté 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
Combine cheese and mayonnaise, stirring well. Spread about 2 tablespoons mayonnaise mixture over bottom half of each roll; top each serving with 1/2 cup arugula and 2 tablespoons peppers. Place 1 mushroom on each serving, and top with top halves of rolls.
Note: Portobello mushrooms are well-paired with pungent Gorgonzola cheese. Use crumbled blue cheese to save even more time.
Serves: 4
Recipe via MyRecipes.com: Cooking Light by Melanie Barnard.

Tarragon Chicken

What you`ll need:
4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chickens breast halves
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons minced fresh tarragon
1/8 teaspoon salt

Place each chicken breast half between 2 sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap; pound to 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or small heavy skillet. Sprinkle chicken evenly with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Combine olive oil and remaining 5 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons oil mixture to pan, spreading evenly over bottom of pan with a wide spatula.
Add chicken; cook 2 minutes. Drizzle chicken with 2 teaspoons oil mixture. Turn chicken over; cook 2 minutes. Drizzle remaining oil mixture over chicken; reduce heat to low.
Cover and cook 2 minutes or until done. Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Pour pan drippings over chicken; serve immediately.
Serves: 4
Recipe via Myrecipes.com, Cooking Light Fresh Food Fast, Oxmoor House.

Quick Moroccan Chicken

What you`ll need:
1 10-ounce box couscous
½ tablespoon olive oil
1 large clove garlic, thinly sliced
1 ½ tablespoons light brown sugar
pinch ground nutmeg
1 ½ tablespoons red wine vinegar
½ cup orange juice
1 15-ounce can diced peaches or peach slices, drained
1 rotisserie chicken, cut into pieces
¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves (optional)

Cook the couscous according to the package directions.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 ½ minutes.
Add the sugar, nutmeg, vinegar, and orange juice and bring to a simmer.
Add the peaches and continue to simmer until the liquid has reduced slightly, about 5 minutes.
Divide the couscous and chicken among individual bowls, top with the peach sauce, and sprinkle with the parsley (if desired).
Serves: 4
Recipe via Realsimple.com.