So as Kim had mentioned last week, the Balmain collection was heavily inspired none other than a CF icon Michael Jackson, but has anyone seen him sporting the Balmain line himself?
Perfect!

Check these out. My boy worked it!

Less Is More

ACAD graduate Clayton Evans reveals his aw09 complexgeometries collection, a contemporary fashion line based out of Montreal. Evans pieces breathe fresh life into our consumer driven culture, letting you feel stylish and comfortable.

The pieces are sold in select stores across the world, with major following in New York and Tokyo.Calgary can now purchase these constructed garments through the online store.

Bring a little shape to your basics, I'd say.

Check back for my interview with the new label!

CF @ Factory Party 5

photo by Lindsey Baker

Last Friday Calgary Fashion attended and held a fashion exhibition at the 5Th Factory Party presented by THE MODERN LEISURE. The night was incredible! After a few stressful but fun weeks, every one's hard work paid off and we successfully produced an effective fashion show.
Thanks to Kim, who was my trusty side-kick through-out the entire process.
I'd like to thank all the designers, Cailtlin Power, Andrea Parton, Susan Clarahan, Hannah Grant, and Tiffany Wollman. Your creations deserve to be seen!
To all the models for taking time out of their days for fittings and the grueling 'waiting around' part. You are all beautiful!
Leandra and Olga, thank you for the fierce makeup and hair.
Garret, Jordan, Steph and Kara, you are lifesavers! What would happen without you??
Thank you to Noah York for his musical contribution, and the night could not have happened without Randy Gibson and the entire MODERN LEISURE team.
I love you guys.
Until next time.

Reminder

For the month of March, Fashion Television channel is free! Those who have Cable or Satellite, click and enjoy the wonderful world of everything fashion for at least another few weeks.
If you don't have television, you can view tons of stuff on their website.

So much Fashion, so little time.

Fashion Television

Meet My Muse

Chloë Sevigny:
“I’m interested, not really in high fashion per se, but in style.. There’s a difference.”


“I just can’t carry something that I don’t like.”


“I think most fashion designers really hate me because I’m really controlling and just always disappointed by what they do. I always expect more or better"

My Beauty Fixes

There are some things us females just can't live without when it comes to makeup.
Whether its splurging on something more dramatic or a simple daily routine, we all have products we swear by. Since I moved in with my roommate, who is just as fiendish with product buying as I am, I have realized how many brands are out there but indefinitely, how few actually enhance and benefit your skin.

Here are some of my picks for affordable beauty buys:





For the face:I like using light products that don't cover up your skin's natural beauty. To start, after a good cleanser, put a few dabs of Nivea's Simply Glowing face cream on your cheeks, eyelids and the corner of your eyes. This will wakeup your skins surface layer and give you that added moisture. I couldn't find a picture of Quo's True Skin product, which is unbelievable.It's neither a foundation nor a primer, but works as both. If you have perfectly clear skin, I suggest you just use this product. It has a velvety texture and you don't get any visible markings. It's like you're not wearing anything at all, but it leaves your skin looking and feeling better than before you put it on. Instead of layering on thick foundation and powder, use Quo's sheer tint foundation with spf 20, and then fix those pesky red spots with Paula Dorf's Magic Stick concealer.




Cheek tints:Benefit 'Benetint' has been around for a few years now, but it's still one of the best ways to get a natural flushed looking skin. Tarte's version of a lip stain is a bit heavier and in a cream stick applicator but its loaded with antioxidants and goji berry. Along with the color you get a beautiful glow that lasts all day and night. Its available in many shades as well. I go for the natural 'berrylicious'. You can also apply these to your lips for a 'just kissed' look




Lips:Everyone has heard of DuWop's Lip Venom, but I perfer I.D Bare Essentials' Buxom Lips. There is more pigment in the product so you use less, but it plumps your lips just as well. There are a bunch of colors to choose from including clear.
For those who aren't keen on putting color on your lips, just treat yourself to Nivea's Lip Effect with Q10 Plus. It instantly transforms dry lips into a soft shiny kissable pout. Those who have seen my bathroom, might think I am sponsered by Nivea, since I have almost every single product they have on the market. They do the job!

Until your next fix, I'm out.
xo
Yana

Nick Knight & Gareth Pugh

Ruth Hogben has now created a short fashion film using Nick Knight's amazing photographic imagery. Knight shot these images for last October's issue of DAZED&CONFUSED, featuring Designer Gareth Pugh 08/09 pieces.
WATCH THE FILM
When I first saw the kaleidoscopic wonder, I was blown away. This was true artistic vision come to fruition. Using Matthew Stone's hypnotizing electronic sound, there is a mixed effect being created. The symmetry is calm and eerie while the models themselves break the balance. They all seem to be in some trance. Perhaps a conflict within?

Entrapment in a foreign place where folklore meets the insane.
I am in love with the multitude of mediums and the collaborative efforts of so many designers.
AMAZING.

Quorra Apothecary

Every once in a while we must treat ourselves to some change, and the same goes for our skin. I love finding a good product I can add to my daily makeup regime or something new to spice up a look. For those that choose to do a little shopping in downtown Calgary, you might be delighted to step into Quorra Apothecary Boutique.

Quorra Apothecary is a dream come true for beauty junkies. Quorra's ambience and staff provide customers with a unique cosmetic shopping experience. Quorra specializes in carrying premium indie brands that are not readily available in department stores. These lines rise above mass marketed brands with their superior quality, unique style, and beautiful packaging. For those beauty junkies seeking the latest hip products - color cosmetics, skincare, fragrance, beauty accessories and body & bath... Quorra is the destination.

Quorra Apothecary's extensive services include makeup applications, one-on-one lessons, false eyelash application, in-store and on-location wedding applications and monthly special events. Watch the store calendar or book a private shopping evening and let the Quorra team do the rest!(www.quorra.ca)

If you don't have the luxury to spend hours checking out all the unique products in person, you can take your time picking something out through their website.

Closeted

So I don't think I really have 'winter' clothing... I kind of just wear anything all year round, + layers + jackets. But, today looked so beautiful out it made me wish for spring to hurry up so I can run around without hiding behind a big ol' coat. Here are some cute looks I liked today.

I'm really into primary colours.
This is probably one I feel most comfortable in.
shirt and jeans all vintage, shoes by John Fluevog @ Gravity Pope

Crisp Porcelains, just seems so beautiful and classic
Dress by The Gap, shoes by Gravity Pope

The Comfiest. Stretch Cotton Knits are your friend
Shirt by H&M, Skirt by ZARA

I'll have more looks throughout the weeks. I got bored of changing.. so I'm back to the first look. There is just something about 80s new wave that has always appealed to me. Not only for the music, but maybe its the androgynous cuts or a punch of color in the right places. That era brought a whole new take on modern design. Forget Molly Ringwald, doesn't anyone remember Samantha Baker's bff's bedroom in 16 candles. Red and Glass shower squares part of her bedframe! Check out LELA ROSE and A.F. VANDEVORST Spring 09' collections for a similar vibe.

Keep It Simple

Now, I'm a little late on posting these days due to laptop failure. Its torturous really. I realised I forgot to post an article I wrote on Calgary winterwear for Beatroute's December issue. I loved shooting both Sydney and Gareth, its always easier when friends come together to create something fun.

Clothing by GIANT 45

Charged with being the epitome of cool, the leather jacket will always be an edgy classic. This season, the jacket could be your greatest investment. Your trusty leather will prove to be warm enough for this winter's temperature changes and guarantees an "I don't care" attitude. Nothing beats not having to worry about what you're wearing. You want it to be fitted and still roomy enough for layers. Don't be afraid to play with color and texture whether it's patented, crinkled, or rustic. Some jackets are even lined with flashy patterns which snap up a whole new generation of leather wearers. Depending on your wardrobe, it could add some spice to your life. Paired up with any ensemble, the leather jacket can give life to a boring outfit as well as tame something a little too wild. It's comfortable and available in many stores, new and used. Try the motorcycle, bomber, hooded or cropped numbers. Once you have the perfect jacket on, you won't want to take it off, which is just fine since leather jacket etiquette allows you to wear your jacket indoors as well. Have patience and the jacket will find you.

It seems like cowboys are falling short on swearing by their plaid shirts, thereby leaving it up to the rest of us. A trend which started in the early '90s grunge scene, the plaid shirt has put up with almost ten years of humiliation, but we're taking it back. Everyone loves those comforting flannels. Not only are they warm, but they bring more color and versatility than any cardigan. They vary in styles, lengths and thickness. The greatest part about these shirts is that you can find them in almost any store or buy them for a buck at a thrift store. If you're not so hot on sporting a tartan shirt, opt for a jacket, scarf, skirt, or pants. Designers have given us the option of deciding where we want to put the Scottish cloth, and now we'll leave it up to you.

For those chillier days and heavier snow falls, we want something with a little more defence. Don't be afraid of heavy coats or thick lining. It's okay to look warm. Local stores have brought in an array of winter coats more than suitable for those freezing conditions. Stray from cheap synthetic blends, they'll give you a cold sweat. Instead, think classic wool, flannel, cashmere and even cotton. This year, it's all about culture and back country. A hundred years ago, our grandparents knew how to keep warm in style, why don't we keep the legacy?

CLICK to see more photos

Expect to see major changes in Calgary Fashon this year. The team is set on bringing the diversity of the world to Calgary. We believe fashion stems from more than trends or fads. Being comfortable in your own skin is the first step to being true to fashion. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to experiment with different styles. Let fashion be an open door for your own creativity.
Much love in the new year!
Ciao
-Yana

Wake Up In A Book

For the December Fantastic Fashion Fantasy issue, British Vogue did a special spread titled, "Tales of the Unexpected" shot by Tim Walker. It featured the irisistable Tim Burton And Helena Bonham Carter capturing the surreal interpratation of old Roald Dahl classics, such as "James and the Giant Peach" and "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory". I absolutely love Dahl's stories and illustrations, so this was especially a treat for me.
Click to check out all the photos

Hot Winter

Pick up the latest Beatroute Magazine to see Yana's spread on Winter Jackets.
Or check it out online ---> HERE
It's been one heck of a cold week in Calgary so Yana's article is definately a must read for keeping warm and staying stylish! You're gonna need it if you plan on making it to some of Calgary's hottest Winter Christmas parties!!!

Photo Credit: Yana Matusovski