Dana Maxx

So I've just wrapped up my 1st season of Fashion CURES à la mode...I will write a post about that later once John smith, my talented FCM photographer , will select the BEST BACKSTAGE FCM moments and other shots.

Meanwhile, let me talk about Dana-Maxx, a chic, feminine, edgy and sophisticated womenswear line.

This is a brand that is based on the fact that real women can wear it and the styles are
quality pieces that last season to season! The designer starting began her line back in 2007. Prior to that she worked for iconic houses such as Betsey Johnson and Marc Jacobs....need I say more???

Here are some of the pieces I like and would DEFINITELY wear...
Reminds me of Rachel Sin's stuff (Designer - Ottawa Native)
Love this...I had a super cool skirt as a kid...now my 5-year old sister wears it (I call it, sporting vintage pieces not hand me downs)...I wish I was still small enough to fit in it.
Empress look, timeless style..dress up or down, heels or flats, natural or fierce makeup, loose or tied up hair...quite the versatile dress.

Dressing for an interview on ATV Ottawa Morning

Fashion CURES à la mode

FASHION CURES REGISTRATION

BUTTON

Aqua Di Lara

I would have loved to have been there!!!

It was as simple as a click of a button...but I couldn't..maybe next year...at least I have the calendar to admire those beautiful bathing suits and wish I looked like that....

DACE Dace dace

They are having a HUGE sale. The majority of the items on our site are up to 80% off.
I recently bought a dress from them. Fits beautifully, great for office and play.

Check out the last shoot....it was retouched by a retoucher...this is all DACE

Photographer: Brendan Burden

Makeup & Hair: Kirthi Sena

Model: Mila from Folio

Wardrobe: Dace

Jewellery: Mizdragonlfy

Footwear: The Shoe Company

xox

Flaunt Ottawa

Flaunt is the latest event I took part in.

It was a success and many people LOVED the free makeovers, manicures and swag bags given by Smashbox & Murale.

Free cupcakes and martinis courtesy of Little Cakes and Bar 56 were also passed around all night...and let's not forget the candy bar....yum!

Stacey of Kania Couture did a wonderful job at gathering great designers to make this Stylish trade show to the people of Ottawa.

Starfish Creative Events & Inspiration and Hush Boutique were amazing. They made sure all went as planned.

A grand thank you to all of the sponsors, models and volunteers.

Gals, get ready for next year, because it will be bigger and better.

Here below are the details of the event:

You are cordially invited to

FLAUNT Ottawa

to view invitation

www.flauntottawa.com

WHAT IT IS: Flaunt is a celebration of all things chic! An opportunity to indulge in your guiltiest pleasures! Shop the newest designer fashions and accessories... eat the most delectable sweets ... be immersed in decadent handmade body care all while grooving to beat of the hottest djay's. The first annual flaunt event will be held under a white draped tent on the roof top of the ultra chic National Arts Center! Flaunt is the store everyone wants to shop at, the event where everyone wants to be it's one night to have it all the ultimate shopping experience! Get ready to flaunt your stuff!

WHERE IT IS: Roof Top Terrace at the National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin Street, Ottawa

WHAT YOU GET: A fantastically fun night out, with complimentary martinis courtesy of the Collection/56 Mini bar, a yummy sweet courtesy of Little Cakes, a loot bag courtesy of Murale, lots of fun door prizes and more...

WHERE IT GOES: A portion of ticket sales and 100% of the silent auction proceeds goes to Peter Munk Cardiac Center. One of Kania Couture's faithful clients is currently waiting for a heart transplant.

WHY WE DID IT: To promote Canadian designers, to help a worthy cause, and of course to HAVE FUN!

Showing runs till 10pm but the DJ goes all night!

www.flauntottawa.com

Ottawa Fashion Week - Archives

Hi

Here is the video from Rogers TV of the 2nd OFW that took place in November of 2008.



This one dates from May 2008 and was actually filmed from a TV screen..lol..

This is another one from Rogers Television Network.

Angie's 10th Annual Showcase

Here are some pictures from Angie's Showcase that took place on May 30th, 2009. There are more on my website (www.raniaabdulla.carbonmade.com)

Paula Lishman
Jefferson Sukhoo
Jefferson Sukhoo
Aqua Di Lara
Covet This
Kania Couture
Misha Moudravski
David Dixon

Elena's Creations
Zena Fares

All photographs are copyright of Spyglass 2009.

Here is the Rogers TV video

Paula Lishman Fall/Winter 2009-08 Accessories Collection

The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia

The Little Black Book of Style

By Nina Garcia

Published by Harper Collins

This is following the presentation I gave at Billings Bridge Shopping Centre on April 28th, 2009, on how to be your own stylist based on the book The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia. It is not a critique of the book, it simply lists the elements within it as a reference for the attendees of the seminar and the readers of the blog.

Be your own Muse:

• Clothes are what represent you.
• Be confident.
• Love yourself.
• Have a good attitude and let it reflect through.
• Dress the part you want to be.

Below there are the basic guidelines as described in the book.

Basics #1 - How to edit:

• Your closet should only contain amazing choices.
• It will inspire you to see a few great pieces than several that aren’t.
• Anything less shouldn’t be kept regardless of price or sentimental ties.
• Only keep what looks good on you.
• Buy YOUR size, not a size smaller because you will lose weight in 6 months.
• FYI; it takes 10 pounds to drop a size.
• Buy it in your size and what flatters your current body most.
• Don’t buy it because it’s on sale, buy it because you want it, if it’s a great deal at 50% off but you will never wear it, you just wasted your money.
• Don’t always go with safe choices, you’ll never be inspired or have fun with fashion.
• Don’t buy according to trends, if that trend doesn’t suit you, it won’t look good, buying what looks good on you is primordial.

Basic # 2 - Build your core:

• In other words, the essential staples that match with anything and everything.
• They are timeless and chic.
• They are your blank page that you build on.
• There is 10 of them.

1. The Little Black Dress (LBD).
2. A classic men’s white shirt.
3. Cashmere cardigan or turtleneck.
4. Denim.
5. A man’s classic watch.
6. Diamonds.
7. A classic high-heel pump.
8. A great bag:

• Tote or shoulder bag - for daytime and carrying everything.
• Clutch - for night and carrying nothing
• Medium-sized handbag with chain strap - for those times in between
• The must-have - Chanel 2.55, LV Speedy, Gucci Jackie O., Hermès Birkin

Basic # 3 - Buy with drama:

• Look for that unique, extravagant piece, the one that will make you standout.
• It should be something that you fall in love with almost immediately and you know you are meant to be.
• Make sure it is something that will resist time.
• It doesn’t have to correspond to a current trend but can easily incorporate into your wardrobe and make it appear updated
• Here is a list of items:
• An oversize cocktail ring
• Knock’em dead evening or cocktail dress
• A cuff
• Piece of fur
• Killer shoes
• Exotic bag
• Standout coat

Basic # 4 - Significance of shoes

• Invest in a good pair:
• Manolo Blahniks
• Christian Louboutin
• Roger Vivier
• Jimmy Choo
• Azzedine Alaia
• Wear your size and ensure shoes are in good condition.
• Show only 2 cracks.
• Get a pedicure.
• Make sure you can walk in the heels.
• Don’t go above four inches unless you must (i.e. you adore the shoes and they only come in five inch heels).
• Keep it tasteful.
• Don’t do too high of a heel with a mini skirt, it will make you appear trampy.
• You can never have enough shoes.

Basic # 5 - Accessory impact:

• They will pull an outfit together for you.
• They update your look without changing your clothes.
• They’re the start of an interesting conversation.
• Always keep your choices personal and tasteful
• Don’t overdo.
• Make sure you it’s unique, so it lasts and resists trends.

Basic # 6 - A good tailor:

• He/she can make any clothing item appear expensive.
• He/she can fit clothes to your body perfectly.
• He/she can revive old items – revamp it and update it.
• He/she can shorten the pant hemline while keeping the same cut.
• He/she can turn your vintage into a one-of-a-kind piece.
• He/she can rework and revive a fur coat.
• He/she can make anything you want.
  

Basic # 7 - Do not be a fashion victim:

• Avoid looking like a wannabe – having the “it” EVERYTHING.
• You don’t have to chop an arm and a leg to be in fashion.
• You can combine expensive items with cheaper items and still look stunning.

Basic # 8 - Fashion is not about the money:

• If fashion is expensive, style isn’t.
• Perfecting the art of mixing and knowing what to buy doesn’t mean you have to empty your bank account.
• Go to the flea market and get something unique that can be quite stylish.
• Try a discounted designer store such Winners or even hop into the Bay on Bay Days, they have great deals.

Basic # 9 - How to mix it up:

• Scared of combining 2 prints? Don’t be, a paisley and a plaid can mix as long as the colours and motif can compliment each other.
• Make it look effortless, if it’s too thought out, chances are it wasn’t successful.
• Opposites do attract;
• expensively cheap.
• vicious sweetness.
• basically funky.
• prep it up with edge.
• fierce, fun and flirty.
• lace up the leather.
• modernize a vintage.
• put the stripes in the plaid.
• preciously not.
• bring it up then down.

Basic # 10 - Imperfection

• It simply means, don’t try too hard at it.
• Highlight your imperfections to your benefit, through your clothes, accessories, hair, etc.
• Be well groomed, but make sure what you wear, speaks for you and expresses your personality.

Inspiration:

Get inspired from movies…

• Bringing Up Baby (1938):

Katherine Hepburn’s

• Pants.
• Mixing feminine with masculine.

• Sabrina (1954):

Audrey Hepburn’s

• Givenchy glam.
• The A-line gowns.
• Cocktail black dresses.

• To Catch a Thief (1955):

Grace Kelly’s

• Jewels.
• Blue chiffon.
• Ball gowns.

• And God Created Woman (1956):

Brigitte Bardot’s

• Gingham bikini.
• Pouty lips.
• Sensuality.

• Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1960):

Audrey Hepburn’s

• Oversized glasses.
• LBD.
• Pearl necklace.
• Gloves.

• Doctor Zhivago (1965):

Julie Christie’s

• Fur.
• Mid-length officer-style coat.
• Collared cuffed shirts.

• Belle de jour (1967):

Catherine Deneuve’s

• Shift dress.
• Coats.
• Roger Vivier’s pilgrim-style buckled pump.

• The Thomas Crown Affair (1968):

Faye Dunaway’s

• Her nails.
• Her eyelashes.
• Skirts.
• Perfectly structured and accessorized mini suits.
• White halter pleated mini dress.

• The Great Gatsby (1974):

Mia Farrow’s

• Cream and white flapper dresses.
• Long beads.
• Wide-brim hats.
• Pin-curl bob.

• Mahogany (1975):

Diana Ross’

• Retro designs colours
• Glitters
• White pantsuits
• 70’s turtlenecks.
• Big hair.

• Scarface (1983):

Michelle Pfeiffer’s

• Slinky.
• Shiny dresses.
• Huge coke-head sunglasses.
• Blond hair.

• Pulp Fiction (1994):

Uma Thurman’s

• Black Capri pants.
• White shirt.
• Black hair.

• In Mood for Love (2000):

Maggie Cheung’s

• Coloured dresses.
• 1950’s heels.

From music…

• Diana Ross:
• White gloves.
• Piled hair.
• Gold lamé.
• Feathers.
• Chiffon.
• Tight skirts.
• Jackets.
• Sleeveless dresses.
• Two-piece suits.
• High heels.

• Cher:
• Long straight hair.
• Tight bell-bottoms jeans.
• Midriff exposed.
• Flower-print dresses with white go-go boots.
• Always a flash of colour.
• Details such as sequins, glitter.

• Janis Joplin:
• Shopped at thrift stores and friend’s closets.
• Customized her clothes with embroidery and beading.
• Cowboy boots.
• Boho skirts.
• Tie-dye.
• Leather.
• Lots of accessories.

• Patti Smith:
• Teenage boy look.
• Tight rubber pants.
• Loose white undershirts.
• Layering cardigans.

• Debbie Harry:
• Punk-rock princess.
• Short black shorts.
• Ripped tights.
• Acid-green dresses.
• Tube tops.

• Rolling Stones:
• Tight corduroy pants.
• Velvet jackets.
• Silk shirts.
• Ruffled shirts.
• Long hair.

• Sex Pistols:
• Leather jackets with spikes.
• Torn stockings.
• Safety-pinned clothes.
• Shredded jeans.

• Tina Turner:
• Miniskirts.
• Lipsticks.
• Spiked wild hair.

• Madonna:
• Teased hair.
• Leather.
• Lace.
• Spandex.
• Bright colours.
• Ever-changing and reinvents herself over.
• Blonde ambition phase
• Marylin Monroe phase.
• Evita phase.
• Black Jewellery phase.
• Japanese Geisha phase.

• Kurt Cobain:
• Flannel shirts.
• Grunge.
• Beat up Converse All Stars.
• Dirty cardigan.
• Unwashed jeans.

Travel:

Different parts of the world inspire us.

• South East Asia:
• Lots of colours.
• Beadings.
• Sparkle.
• Texture.

• Europe:
• Eternal style.
• It’s about tradition and heritage.

• South America:
• Everyday pageantry.
• Effortless chic.

• Orient:
• Ritual and culture.
• Devotion to detail.
• Artfulness.
• Grace.

• Africa:
• Elaborate head wraps
• Organic textures.
• Ornementation is important.
• Jewels.

• United States:
• Blue jeans.
• Chic sportswear.
• Different parts of the country have different styles.

Inspiration from art

Designers and art have always come together to make something greater and get inspired from each other.

• Dali and Schiaparelli:
• The Lobster Dress inspired from the Lobster phone.

• Mondrian and St-Laurent:
• The mondrian dress

• Sprouse and Jacobs:
• Bags with graffiti on LV monogram pattern.

• Murakami and Jacobs:

• LV monogram bags in 33 different colours.
• On white or black background.
• Cherry blossom pattern.
• Smiley cartoon faces.
• Pink and yellow flowers over monograms.

Dress code:

What to wear when.

• Black tie/formal:
• Bold colours.
• Fabulous jewellery.
• Make and entrance, a statement.
• Long or cocktail dress.
• Men in tuxedo.

• White Tie:
• Ball Gown.

• Creative Black Tie:
• Theme involved.
• Make sure you don’t look too costumed.

• Cocktail Attire/Black Tie Optional/Informal/Semi-Formal:
• Short dress.
• Have fun.
• Killer heels.
• Funkier jewellery.
• Big cocktail ring.

• Dressy Casual/Smart Casual:
• Pants acceptable.
• No jeans.
• Fun tops.
• No t-shirts.

• Festive Casual:
• Same as Dressy Casual/Smart Casual but themed.
• Be wary of looking too costumed.

• Business Casual:
• Same as dressy casual.
• No low cut tops.

• Casual:
• Carte blanche
• BUT make an effort to look stylish.
• Have fun.

• On a plane:
• No sweatpants.
• Nice pants.
• Jeans.
• Lots of layers.
• Cashmere cardigan.
• Cashmere sweater.
• Cashmere scarf.
• Light trench.
• Jacket.
• Nice tote.
• Pair of sunglasses.
• Flat shoes.

• On a first date:
• Mysterious.
• Slow reveal to add intrigue.
• Focus on fabrics.
• Do not expose too much skin.
• Silk.
• Cashmere.
• Angora.
• Favourite lingerie – for you, not him, to feel good about yourself if it’s disastrous.

• Meeting the in-laws:
• No low-cut tops.
• No shredded jeans.
• Nothing too provocative.
• Do not expose lingerie or cleavage.
• Be conservative.
• Knee-length skirts.
• Cardigan.
• Do not try to change your overall style to impress them.
• Wear classic, non revealing clothes.
• Make your accessories speak for you, such as your purse, your necklace and your watch.

• Job interview:
• Nothing provocative or revealing.
• Be a little conservative.
• No need to wear a suit anymore.
• Pencil skirt.
• Button-down shirt.
• Nice heels.
• If it’s a fashion, art, entertainment company, you can put on a trendier top.
• For law firm, keep it very conservative, if you want to wear a suit, make sure it’s well tailored.
• Put a piece of personal jewellery on the suit to bring it to life.

• Underneath your garments:
• Go with colours.
• Layer it.
• Keep it feminine.
• Vintage works.
• Try garters.
• Corsets.
• Don’t use a bra as a top.
• A leopard print or lacey bra that shows a little is sexy.
• Have basic colours as your classic bras.
• Be careful with nude bras as they tend to make you look like you have a prosthetic breast, make sure they are worn when they don’t have to sneak out a little.

• Be elegant:
• Shoes, bag and coat reveal who you are.
• Go for timeless designs.
• A classic heel.
• Quilted leather bag.
• Knee or calf length coat.
• Spend money on them.
• Rich colours for pants and shirts such as camel, black, brown, ivory.
• Wear tone on tone.
• Add a coat.
• Put on some great jewellery; charm bracelet, bangles, hoops, cocktail ring, turquoise, coral or pearls.

• A wedding:
• Do not wear the same colour as the bridesmaid.
• Do not wear white.
• If it’s an evening wedding in the city, dress as you are going for a Black Tie event.
• If it’s a daytime wedding on an island, wear a sundress.
• If it’s an afternoon wedding at a country club; a simples skirt and top but accessorize it.

• Summer weekend:
• T-shirt.
• Jeans.
• Summer accessories.
• As per Jackie O. in Hyannis.
• Tousled beach hair.
• Sundresses.
• Tank tops.
• A great bathing suit.
• Flat sandals.
• Sun hat.
• L.L. Bean tote.

• Winter:
• A great coat.
• Try the coat in a funky colour, or distinct pattern.
• If you want to stick to basics, opt for a coat with a standout collar and oversized buttons.
• Clothes can be black, grey, camel, brown.
• Dare to wear ivory and white.
• Cashmere or alpaca.
• Fur coat or hat.

• Pregnant:
• Lots of jewellery; bangles, earrings, fun necklaces.
• Don’t wear big baggy clothes that will make you look bigger.
• Emphasize your belly.
• Wear fitted cashmere sweaters for winter.
• Cotton t-shirts in summer.
• Maternity jeans that are snug on hips and thighs but flare out at leg to balance the belly effect are great.
• Flat shoes only.
• Ballet flats are a helpful and trendy option.

Fashion decade by decade

1910’s:

• Fish Shape.
• Empire cut.
• Poiret:
• Liberated women from corset.
• Introduced pantaloons.

1920’s:

• Flapper.
• Bobbed hair.
• Higher hemlines.
• Lower waistlines.
• La garçonne.
• Coco Chanel:
• Jersey-knit dresses.
• LBD.
• Two-ton shoes.
• Lanvin:
• Complex trimmings.
• Embroideries.
• Beaded decorations in light, clear floral colours.
• Jean Patou:
• Sportswear for women.
• Knitted swimwear.
• Tennis skirt.

1930’s:

• Return to femininity.
• Glamour.
• Backless dresses.
• Nylon hosiery
• Madeleine Vionnet:
• Flowy, feminine clothes.
• Cowl neck.
• Halter tops.
• Elisa Shiaparelli:
• Use of art in clothes (trompe l’oeil).
• Zippers.
• Shoulder pads.
• Buttons.
• Bright colours.
• Madame Grès:
• Intricate draperies.
• Impeccable cuts.

1940’s:

• Day dresses.
• Blouses with bow details.
• Military looks.
• Christian Dior:
• Re-established Paris as a fashion hub.
• Revived Haute Couture.
• Re-introduced glamour with the “New Look” (tight waistline, stiff petticoats, billowing skirts).
• Cashin:
• Imposed the boot as a fashion accessory.
• McCardell:
• American sportswear concept for women.

1950’s:

• High heels.
• Pencil skirts.
• Shape and volume.
• Cristobal Balenciaga:
• Balloon dresses.
• Tunic dresses.
• Chemise dresses.
• Empire line.
• Hubert de Givenchy:
• Brought us the Muse concept with Audrey Hepburn.
• Made LBD famous.
• Introduced separates.
• Coco Chanel:
• Takes the “New Look” and introduces it into braided suits with golden chains.
• Costume jewellery.
• Monogrammed buttons.
• Quilted bags on chains.

1960’s:

• Mod.
• Fun.
• Revolutionary clothes.
• Short skirts.
• Psychedelic prints.
• Wild colours.
• Go-go boots.
• Dresses made of vinyl, paper, cellophane, and metal, covered in mirrors.
• Baby-doll dresses.
• Pierre Cardin:
• First ready-to-wear line.
• Mary Quant:
• Youth movement.
• Introduces miniskirts.
• Hot pants.
• Launches “Twiggy”.
• Yves St-Laurent:
• Opens fashion house.
• Makes safari chic.
• Emilio Pucci:
• Psychedelic prints.
• Clothes for jet-set.
• Paco Rabanne:
• Uses metal.
• Paper.
• Plastic on his clothes.
• André Courrège:
• Brings us mini.
• Uses cutouts.
• Peepholes.
• Sheer tops.
• Genereich:
• Worked with vinyl and plastic.
• Launched "Monokini".

1970’s:

• Disco.
• Ethnic trend.
• Bell bottoms.
• Miniskirts.
• Platform shoes.
• Vivienne Westwood:
• Punk revolution.
• Dresses The Sex Pistols.
• Sonia Rykiel:
• Makes knitwear fashionable.
• Uses darkblacks.
• Rhinestones.
• Long boa-like scarves.
• Crocheted hats.
• Beene:
• Experiments with geometry and fashion.
• Bill Blass:
• Signifies American style.
• Fiorucci:
• Glam rock.
• Bright rubber boots.
• Fake fur.
• Pop art jackets.
• Ralph Lauren:
• Introduces first lifestyle brand.
• Calvin Klein:
• Brings us brand power by advertising.
• Anne Klein:
• Introduces American women sportswear.
• Kamali:
• Revolutionizes bikini with “Pull Bikini”.

1980’s:

• Decade of colour.
• Power suits.
• Japanese invasion.
• Azzedine Alaïa:
• Sexy.
• Seductive designs.
• Emphasizes figure.
• Yohji Yamamoto, Comme des Garçons, Ysse Miyake:
• Japanese invasion.
• Donna Karan:
• Feminine approach to ready-to-wear.
• Tommy Hilfiger:
• Preppy American chic.
• Bill Blass:
• Brought American sportswear to highest level.
• Adored by businesswomen and executives wives.
• Perry Ellis:
• American sportswear.
• Uses colours.
• Natural fibers.
• Muccia Prada:
• Produced ready-to-wear fashion that mastered “the mix”.
• Christian Lacroix:
• Creates the pouf skirt.
• Manolo Blahnik:
• Makes shoes as important as dresses.
• Jean-Paul Gaultier:
• Brought lingerie details and made them fashionable.

1990’s:

• Minimalism.
• Simplicity.
• Grunge.
• Marc Jacobs:
• Brought grunge to catwalk.
• Tom Ford for Gucci:
• Showed how to sell sex.
• Gianni Versace:
• Sexy with a lifestyle to match.
• Bold clothes.
• Dolce & Gabbana:
• Superfiminine clothes for modern-day women.
• Roberto Cavalli:
• Rich yet hippy designs.
• Animal prints.
• Use of feathers and leather.
• Ann Demeulemeester:
• Part of the Antwerp six from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp.
• Combined unusual fabrics together.
• Dries Van Noten:
• Part of the Antwerp six from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp.
• Mixed classic designs with a highly personalized aspect.
• Beirendonck:
• Part of the Antwerp six from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp.
• Mixed violently divergent colours.

2000’s:

• Superbrands are born.
• Music moguls and actors as designers.
• The handbag becomes hits an all-time high in terms of importance.
• Elbaz for Lanvin:
• Brings back femininity and romance
• Uses silk.
• Pleated dresses.
• Adds satin ribbons.
• Stella McCartney for Chloé:
• Girly style.
• Vintage-inspired tops.
• Sexy trousers.
• John Galliano:
• Master of dramatic.
• Extravagance.
• Exaggeration.
• Karl Lagerfield for Chanel:
• Re-invention of classic staples.
• Create cult of Coco LV – birth of the designer handbag.
• Oscar De Larenta:
• Dresses all first Ladies regardless of political parties.
• Feminine, elegant and classy collections.
• Zac Posen:
• Clothes that make an entrance.
• Christian Louboutin:
• Red-soled shoe.
• Darling of A-listers.

To view, read and purchase the book, please visit:


http://www.amazon.ca/Little-Black-Book-Style/dp/0061234907

Bikini Quick Fix

The next 2 posts are following my Bikini Presentation today at Billings Bridge Shopping Centre for their month long event, 28 Days of Lust-Haves & Lipsticks, alongside the wonderful Bootycamp Fitness Gals, which, by the way, people swear by. It's suppose to get you in shape in time for bikini season. They were too amazingly cute in their pink army print shirts and ball caps.

Got a problem area? Not an issue. Showcase your best asset and camouflage what you don’t want to reveal. Here is a quick guide to looking amazing in a bikini whatever shape or body type you have.

Large Chest

• For support and comfort, look for suits with wider straps.
• If you want to go with a low cut neckline, make sure the armhole is cut high enough to secure your bust and not make it fall out.

Small Bust

• Bikini tops with a push-up effect will provide you with the same results your push-up bra will.
• Avoid dark tops as they will diminish your bust line.
• Instead, look for suits with large patterns or horizontal stripes to accentuate your bust.
• Bandeau tops aren’t ideal for small busted women as they tend to crush the bust and flatten what’s there.
• Combine a halter to create cleavage with a string bottom to flatter your hips.

Non-Defined Waist

• One-piece suits are great to minimize the waistline.
• Belted, 60's-inspired styles highlight the waist giving the impression of an hourglass figure.
• Try a draped, criss-cross cut to hide any buldges and favour the waistline.
• Stomach
• To camouflage your belly, ruching on the side seams helps drag the eyes away from the problem area giving you an evened midsection.
• A strapless, pinup-style suit with shirring at the sides can flatter curves and give you a glamorous look, à la Marilyn Monroe.
• Fabrics with high content of Lycra (20%) suck in your frame shaving off some pounds to make you look leaner.
• High-rise, full cut bottoms or ‘boy shorts’ are the most flattering for a protruding tummy.
• ‘Tankinis’ are a good way to cover the stomach and hold it in place, allowing the focus on the legs to them off.

Wide Hips

• Side ties on bikini bottoms help decrease the size of your hips.
• Look for a leg hemline that is cut lower on the leg, this will minimize the ‘hip effect’.
• As well, choose a low rise waist over a higher rise to flatter your features.
• Buttocks
• To diminish the bum area, covering and draping fabric over it is not optimum, all the attention will be drawn there.
• Suits with high Lycra content (20%) will tighten the buttocks and make them appear firmer.
• Selecting a style with full back coverage, without any bows, ties, or ruffles will also help minimize the focus on that region.

Fuller Thighs

• A higher cut hemline on the leg will elongate your legs making them appear thinner.
• Avoid ‘boy short’ bottoms as they will make your legs look shorter.
• String bikinis bottoms with ties placed high on the hips help lengthen your legs.
• Opting for a bright top will shift the focus to the top region rather than the bottom, away from the trouble zone.

Additional Notes

• A bikini bottom with side ties will make your top half appear longer and draw one’s attention to your legs.
• Bottoms styled with ties, bows, ribbons at the sides paired with halter tops will make your torso appear longer; this is not a good selection for a woman with a long torso but works well for someone with a shorter top half.

Bathing suit Fits & Tips

Suits to fit & flatter

Before you go hunting for your new bathing suit, here are a few things you should know to help you embrace your appearance in it. Buying for your body type and knowing what flatters your figure, will make you feeling AND looking sexier on the beach.

Body type:
Slim/athletic shape

Characteristics:

• Small bone structure.
• Slim.
• Very few curves.
• Tends to wear ‘petite’ clothing.
• Normally small bust.

Styles that suit you best:
Tops

• To give the illusion of having more bust than you really do, a bikini/swimwear top that gives some cleavage using an under-wire and padding is a great way to achieve it.
• Triangular shape tops for small breasted women are somewhat unflattering if they do not contain any padding or structure.
• Floral prints and horizontal stripes make a small bust appear bigger.

Bottoms

• A two-piece suit looks more flattering on short, thin women.
• It shows off lots of skin at the waist, giving the impression of a longer torso, which in return makes you seem taller.
• A higher cut at the leg is ideal for short women as they create a longer line.
• To give yourself wider hips, opt for floral prints or horizontal stripes on bottoms, this should make you look more curvaceous.

Rules to abide by:

• A bathing suit that is too large, can be sloppy, unflattering and make you appear shapeless.
• When it comes to colour, darks will bury your assets giving them no chance to shine.

Body type:
Round shape

Characteristics:

• Most body weight carried around the middle.
• Large breasts.
• Wide hips.

Possibly also considered ‘Round’, if you have:

• Narrow shoulders.
• Smaller hips.
• Non-defined waistline.
• Wear plus sizes.

Styles that suit you best: Tops

• For any top you choose, always make sure you have ample support and are not falling out of your top.
• If you wear plus size and consider yourself to have a round body shape, a long ‘tankini’ top in a bold colour with a subtle bottom can work well.
• A higher neckline or a built-in bra offer more support for large busted women.
• One-piece suits minimize the waistline.
• Belted styles accentuate the waist and provide the appearance of an hourglass shape.
• Criss-cross, draped styles favour the waistline and hide any bulges or rolls.

Bottoms

• Ensure that the bottom doesn’t cut into the thigh area as that can cause unsightly bulges and make you look even rounder.
• A hemline cut high on the leg will make you look taller, it brings out the natural curves of your hips.
• Adding a sarong to your beach suit is a great way to make you look sexier. You can also try a skirt, a built-in swim skirt or a cover-up when you want more coverage.

Rules to abide by:

• Suits that contain lots of Lycra are the optimum selection as they smooth out bumps and bulges while making you look up to 10 pounds slimmer.
• Ditch the black and try a deep, rich tone such as plum, eggplant, cobalt blue or chocolate brown.
• A smaller, allover print will confuse the eye and drag the attention away from your shape.
• Be wary of horizontal stripes, they are not a round woman’s friend.
• Brand names that specifically cater to the plus size woman are a good option as the fabrics and colour palettes are specifically researched to compliment that body shape.

Body type:
Pear shape

Characteristics:

• Bottom portion is larger than the top part of your body.
• Large hips.
• Hips tend to be larger than shoulders.
• Smaller bust line.
• Generally have a flat stomach.

Styles that suit you best:
Tops

• Tops with lots of detailing like beads, sequins, loops or knots will give you a more hourglass appearance as it will direct the attention to your top portion and away from the hips.
• An under-wire bikini top enlarges the bust line to the eye since it works as a push-up bra to support and enhance small busts.
• Larger, triangle-shaped cups create curves.
• Tops with ties in the front can be tightened to give you more cleavage.

Bottoms

• A low-rise, hip-skimming bikini bottom is the best option for pear-shaped women.
• This body type looks great in styles of bikini bottoms that cut across the widest part of the hips, creating a harmonious line and complimenting the hips.
• Side ties are a great detail as they can be tightened to highlight the legs.

Rules to abide by:

• Steer away from bandeau or tube bikini tops as they flatten out the bust.
• To make your hips appear smaller, you don't have to cover them up to diminish them such as wearing the boxy pant style or hot pants, it will only shift the eye to that area and defeat the purpose.

Body type:
Hourglass shape

Characteristics:

• Relatively small waist compared to hips and bust.
• Bust line and hips are proportionate to one another.
• A larger woman wearing plus size is considered to have an hourglass figure as long as the different body parts are proportionate to one another.

Styles that suit you best:
Tops

• If you have modest breasts, a halter or triangle bikini top is best because they tend to show off your cleavage.
• A one-piece with good built-in support is a sexy way to flaunt your curves.
• Ensure that the one-piece doesn't bunch or ride up.
• To look thinner, a suit with high Lycra content in darker colors and smaller patterns will do just that.

Bottoms

• For short, medium or tall women, direct the attention to your legs by wearing a suit bottom that cuts high on the sides giving your legs a longer and leaner look.
• For plus size hourglass-shaped women, try a bikini with a high waist bottom.
• If you opt for a triangular or halter top, combine it with a triangular-shaped bottom to keep your hourglass figure.
• A solid suit with a different coloured waistline will make your waist appear narrower.

Rules to abide by:

• If you have a larger bust, don’t ruin your look by choosing a top without enough support.
• Horizontal stripes only look good if you want to enhance an area, having an hourglass shape doesn’t necessarily mean that they will look good.
• For any body type, opting for swimwear that doesn’t expose too much skin is ideal,
• Keep away from support-less, string bikini tops, they will look sloppy and unflattering.

Body type:
Apple shape

Characteristics:

• Normally has a larger bust line.
• A less defined waistline
• Smaller hips.
• A midriff section larger than hips.

Styles that suit you best:
Tops

• If you want to cover your tummy and add some volume to the bust, a 'tankini' with padded cups will balance out your figure and hide the stomach.
• Look for fabrics with high Lycra content to hold your belly in but ensure it is not so tight that it causes buldges and rolls.
• If you are well endowed in the bust area, make sure your top has ample support to avoid looking dowdy.
• Side ruching smoothes out the midsection thus camouflaging your stomach.
• Side shirring on a strapless, pinup-style suit creates curves and gives a glamorous, old Hollywood look.

Bottoms

• To minimize a problematic mid-section, a larger pant style bottom and one-piece suits with control panels are the solution.
• Bikinis with adjustable and high-rise bottoms or ‘boy shorts’ are the most flattering for this body type.
• Bottoms that cut high on the thigh will give the illusion of a slimmer waist line as all the attention will be drawn downward to the legs.
• Bows, ties or any type of detailing positioned at areas that favour your best assets are a great way of enhancing your shape.
• Expandable side panels or fold-over waistline to resize your suit to fit you properly is a good investment.

Rules to abide by:

• Busy prints should not be considered, a larger pattern or bold and colorful design will suit you best.
• Barely there bikinis aren’t an optimum choice as they make everything hang.
• A smocked dress or cover up is a great piece to have to wear to and from the beach.
• Darker colours have an instantaneous slimming effect on anyone, but it doesn’t have to be black, try a wine red or violet for a change.
• Metallic colors, shiny fabrics and horizontal stripes will make an apple-shaped woman appear larger at the mid-section.
• If a bikini isn’t your thing, a trendy two-piece suit that seems like a one piece with a longer top, in a deeper, dark color, and one that shaves off the area above your hips, with a high cut bottom.
• Show off a thin strip of your torso to keep you from looking shapeless and boxy.

TIP 1
Test the fit:

• Bend down as if you were picking up a towel.
• Top and bottom parts of suit should move with you.
• There should be no popping out of anywhere.

TIP 2
Experiment with sizes:

• A size up or down can make the difference in the fit.
• For more coverage, don't go up a size; go for a style that covers more in the size that fits you best.
• Note that a suit that's too big in the store will only get droopier when it's wet.

TIP 3
Take time to adjust it:

• Tightening straps or pulling on the leg hemline up or down can change the look of the suit.
• If it has ties, try tightening, loosening them or even tying them differently to get different perspectives.
• Play up your cleavage by adjusting your bust.
• Position the waistband at different sections between the waist and hip area to see where it compliments your body shape best.

TIP 4
Crazy for colours:

• If you like vivid colours, no one says you shouldn’t wear them.
• Find some that bring out the glow of your skin, the shine in your hair and the sparkles in your eyes.
• If neutral, earthy hues suit your taste more, go for some that enhance your skin tone.
• Darker shades are rich and flattering, if you want to keep it deep but not black, try different scale grades of eggplant, gray or forest green.
• Your beach look should derive from your street style; it doesn’t have to be separated.

TIP 5
Care for swimwear:

• Swimwear is made of nylon and Lycra, two very durable fabrics that hold up well over time, but the hot tub is its worst enemy; the heat and chlorine cause it much damage.
• Soak your suit in cold water with a mild soap after a day at the pool.
• Let it sit for five to ten minutes before gently squeezing out the excess water.
• For better care, try Palmolive dish soap to remove body oil and sunscreen stains
• Investing in The Laundress - Swimwear Care can be worthwhile; it’s a good delicate wash that removes buildup and sustains your bathing suit for longer.
• Hanging your suit from its straps, just like hanging sweaters up, will stretch it out and make it lose shape.
• To keep the fit, lay flat on a towel for better results.

TIP 6
Accessorize:

Cover-up

• Choose a light, versatile sarong that can double as a dress (convert it into a tube or halter dress), a halter top or simply a wrap skirt, check out Bikini Village’s website to see how you can achieve each style Sarong tricks from Bikini Village.
• A mini dress is convenient as it saves you the trip back home to change into something more suitable for the evening, yet is light enough to wear at the beach.

Beach luggage

• A big bag on the beach is an essential;

1. For a boho chick look, try a straw bag with zippered compartment to store your gadgets away safely from the sand and water.
2. If you’re a kitsch type of gal, a transparent vinyl tote that’s waterproof and edgy is the way to go.
3. Classic bags appeal more to you? Check out canvas tote bags such as the Lands End Zip Top Tote Bag, a sturdy, durable, trendy and machine washable option that is perfect for your needs.

Footwear

• You’ll need sexy, cool footwear to look just right by the water.

1. Pair your beach outfit with high or low espadrilles for a boho look.
2. To spike up a neutral bathing suit colour, go with a patent leather, bright thong.
3. A metallic and jewelled, gladiator-inspired flat will surely keep you looking trendy on the beach.
4. For something sexier, try a high cork wedge with fun detailing.

Sunglasses

• Be sure to add glamour and UVA protection with shades.
• If you are not careful, the sun can cause blistering on your eyes.
• To pick the right ones for your face shape, refer to the points below;

1. Oval/Round face: Try aviators to balance out your face without accentuating it.
2. Angular face: Smooth out a strong jaw line with oversized and round shades.
3. Small/Heart–shaped face: Big or small, all works on a small-shaped face, but be careful, too big a frame can overwhelm your face and make you look cartoon-like.

Jewellery

• Put some hoops on and topple on the wooden bangles for that extra stylish accent on the beach.
• Punch up your muted suit with a colourful beaded necklace.
• Be careful to not overload, you are going for a dip in the water after all and don’t want to have too much weight to carry around.
• Opt for beaded and/or wooden necklaces, wooden or metallic bangles and earrings.
• Metallic necklaces tend to wear the look down making it look too heavy for a breezy day at the beach, it can also rust from the water.

TIP 7
Pre-tanning:

• Get the golden or bronze summer glow without abusing your skin.
• Exfoliate with a moisturizing scrub.
• Apply a self–tanner; many brands provide a natural colour without any of the orange streaks.
• If you only want a hint of colour, a gradual tan self-tanner version is best.
• Many self-tanners include skin firming components, which is an added bonus for most women.
• Most self-tanners don’t contain sunscreen, so be sure to protect yourself with SPF 30 or higher.

TIP 8
Polish it up:

• To get the celebrity tips on what it takes for a beach-worthy pedicure, read below to see what you have to do:
• Cut toenails straight across, then file down the edges and sides.
• Buffing may leave your toenails feeling smooth but it's not as good for your nails as it feels, it weakens them and can cause them to split.
• To get rid of cuticles, push them down and rub on a cuticle remover.
• Avoid cutting your cuticles as digging into them can be painful and cause unnecessary damage to your nails.
• Dry and clean nails well before applying a base coat, this will make your pedicure last much longer.
• A pedicure should be done a few days before heading to the beach.
• To soften those calices and rough areas on the soles of your feet, apply an AHA–spiked foot cream every night before bedtime.

And remember…
Feel and be confident in your bikini and you will immediately look fabulous in it. Show off a great asset. Accentuating your best features is a guaranteed confidence boost. It filters through and makes you look AND feel more attractive.

Runway Project Ottawa - Children's Wish Foundation

Designer: Caroline Guindon
Model: Kayla from Angie's Models

Designer: Ashleigh Freedman
Model: Kathleen from Angie's Models




Designer: Aida Flores
Model: Emily

Designer: Meg Duffield
Model: Kristen from Angie's Models

Designer: Ashley Zaba
Model: Elodie from Angie's Models

These pictures (courtesy of Kevin Backs) are from a recent show I worked on; Runway Project Ottawa.

It was a fashion show, designer competition, gourmet four-course meal with Yellowtail wines, and silent auction, all in support of The Children's Wish Foundation at Lago Bar & Grill. Of course, I was backstage and didn't get to taste the meal, which i heard was amazing.

It took place on a rainy Sunday evening, March 29th, 2009. ALL PROCEEDS went to the Ottawa branch of The Children's Wish Foundation, a charity which grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses.

Derick and TL from Rogers "Daytime Ottawa" hosted the event, Texture Hair Salon did the hair, who are the same people that worked on Project Runway Canada, and the Makeup was supplied by Christian Dior, led by Thierry Papineau.

This event was possible thanks to the Runway Project Ottawa Event Coordinator Team:
Tara Lynn LeSage, Mary Knight, Rebecca Hart, Tracie Geller and Karen Swain

The winner of the designer competition was the lovely Aida Flores with her magnificent gowns. Congratulations to all participants and thanks to all those that made it happen.

Scanlan à la Rania

Photographer: Alex Cairncross
Makeup Artists: Catherine Dupuis & Angela Azzi
Hair Stylist: Joanne Brunet
Models: Kara Cantwell & Adria Nadler

This is was a shoot done back in October for a local designer, Tara Scanlan. It was staged in a house in Centretown, Ottawa.