Photo of the Day

Edgy. Coco Rocha. Steven Meisel. Italian Vogue.

Amanda

Hoot of Gold

Ryan Hadley. That's the 300th post on this blog. Lordy.

Everyone Loves a Clothing Swap Part Deux!

Alright you recessionistas, here comes another exciting clothing swap!

On Saturday, August 15, 2009 from 12-4pm at St. Stephens-in-the-Fields Church on 103 Bellevue Ave. at College there will be a fun clothing swap. Admission for women is $8 with 5 unwanted, clean clothing items with additional unswapped clothing being donated to various charities.

This clothing swap will also have yummy food, door prizes, workshops and on-site alterations. For more information on this exciting clothing event email, swapdontshop@gmail.com.

Amanda

Bury The Hoot-chet

"heres a pic of a kinda different owl tattoo i did" - you ain't kidding, Mike Adair!

Photo of the Day

Lily Allen strikes a pose Audrey Hepburn-style in these new advertisements for Chanel's new handbag line. I love the classic fashion inspiration.

Amanda

The Fall Clothing Show Needs Volunteers

Toronto's weekend shopping event, The Clothing Show is looking for volunteers. The organization that has been going on for over 30 years and has over 300 booths selling clothing from vintage, boutique, streetwear, accessories and sample sales. There is also a Century of Fashion competiton display with collectors bringing in their best quality vinatge pieces to accurately represent each decade of the 20th century. Fashion shows will be occuring throughout the weekend and there will be a fashion photography contest.

The event will be taking place September 25, 26 and 27 2009 at the Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place. The organizers are currently looking for local designers, runway models, dressers, ushers and runway/backstage staff.

If you are looking for more experience in the fashion industry and this event interests you, then email Alison McEvoy at alison@theclothingshow.com

If you would like to purchase tickets follow this link, http://www.theclothingshow.com/tickets.html.

Amanda

Psychology, Sociology and Anthropologie: Yorkville's Latest Lifestyle

Ahhh I am in love! I just love a lifestyle a store. I love being able to find so many wonderful items all under one well-decorated roof, so you can imagine my excitement when I discovered the American lifestyle store, Anthropologie.

I first discovered the eclectic, home-y, vintage store on a trip to New York City and I fell in love. Filled with books, beautiful clothes and lovely scented candles I knew that a store like this needed to be in Canada and now it is. Smack dab in the middle of swanky Yorkville, welcome Anthropologie.

As you first walk in, you are welcomed by the sweet scents of its many candles, perfumes and soaps. They also sell kitchenware (think colourful printed plates and mugs) , crystal doorknobs and books such as, The Little Dictionary of Fashion by Chrisitian Dior.

Most importantly, Anthropologie sells clothes, lots and lots of beautiful clothes. The type of clothes that you can picture yourself wearing in a beautiful garden or sipping coffee at Starbucks. It was prints galore with colourful silk and jersey dresses. Thin and thick knit sweaters had me imagining my fall wardrobe along with the pleated high waisted skirts.

I absolutely love this store for it is so inspiring. There is something new and exciting everywhere you turn and it is the perfect place to get lost and shop on a rainy day. In need of a few new things? Head over to 80 Yorkville and start exploring.

Amanda

Quote of the Day

"There is no such thing as ugly women, only lazy ones"

-Helena Rubinstein

Amanda

Frugal Fashion Week: Fashion Show!

The Social was the name and a fashion show was the game!

Frugal Fashion Week continued with an exciting bar top fashion show in West Queen West's trendy club, The Social. Models strutted their stuff on the unconventional runway wearing clothes from 69 Vintage. Wide brimmed sun hats were worn by nearly every model, complimented each look from a gold metallic caftan to a brown tied shirt with white shorts.

A personal favourite of mine was a satin bodice top with a sweetheart neckline worn with high waisted linen Bermuda pants and a wide brimmed hat. The look was topped off with vintage glasses and evoked the stylish glamour of the 1950's.

Accompanying the fashion show was a Midnight Madness Sale at 69 Vintage, which was filled with leather jackets, sequined tops, floral dresses and cool shades.

Frugal Fashion Week was an experience to remember. It was all about giving back, saving money and enjoying some lovely fashion. I can't wait for the next one!

Amanda

Hoot Canal

Owl-tacular, Leah Moule!

The Hoot Chick

Jessi Lawson

Hoots On Fire

A quick reader submission round-up coming up...

Miles sent in the above, not bad for a first tattoo! done by Ronnie Grizard of Modern Body Tattoos in Sacramento CA.

Thank you Kitty!


Aaron, sent in the above, saying 'Mine was inspired by Pigwidgeon from "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban". My owl is delivering an envelope from Sirius Black to Harry Potter.' It was done by Zac Vining of Absolute Art in Richmond, Virginia.

Finally, Chyna sent in the above done by Patt Whelan at Sick Creations Tattoo in West Deptford, NJ.

Aztec Tattoos

Nice collection of top notch quality Aztec tattoo artwork designs.

At its pinnacle Aztec culture had rich and complex mythological and religious traditions, as well as reaching remarkable architectural and artistic accomplishments. A particularly gruesome element of Aztec culture to many was the practice of human sacrifice.

Colorful design.

Amazing warrior tattoo on back.

Photo of the Day

Glamorous, classic and effortlessly chic. What more can be said?

Amanda

Behind-the-Scenes: Bandits in Bows presented by Maybe by Sarah Catalfo!

You are in dark alley and it's a quarter past midnight.

A cat is purring loudly and it is beginning to sound like a roar.

You look down at yourself and what are you wearing?

You will have to find that out on Thursday, August 13th, 2009 at The Rivoli when you visit the Fall 2009 Collection by Maybe by Sarah Catalfo, entitled "Bandits in Bows".

If you would like further information regarding the guestlist or how to purchase tickets, feel free to email me at amandasfashionspot@gmail.com with the subject line, "Bandits in Bows".

Amanda

Old book + Fabric - Pages = Pocket Books by Noelle Hamlyn

Have you ever been in search of the perfect book bag? Well, look no further because pocket books are here.

Created by textile artist, Noelle Hamlyn pocket books are small handbags created by vintage books. After removing the pages of household books such as Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit and Tin Tin, Noelle replaces the pages with vintage fabrics linings and recycled belt straps that are used as handles.

Each fabric lining is specially chosen to fit the feeling of each book and the belt straps convert from over-the-shoulder to across the chest. These bags are the perfect accessory for a night at the movies or a visit to the museum. If you are interested in learning more about Hamlyn's unique purses, visit her website at http://www.noellehamlyn.com/.

Pocket books are relatively easy to make and if you are ever interested in making one yourself check out this link, http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Book-Purse.

Amanda

Frugal Fashion Week Media Launch Party!

It may be have been a steamy evening on the launch of Toronto's first-ever Frugal Fashion Week, but that did not stop the industry, media and local shoppers from celebrating an event that is all about supporting local businesses.

Held at Chasse Gardee on 1084 Queen Street West the event was kicked off with socializing, sipping Vitamin Water and dining on some good ole' Canadian poutine. Attracting advocates for small businesses and entrprenueurs, Chasse Gardee offered 50 to 80% off their regular priced shoes all for a bid to bring recessionistas and the local community together. Owner Daniela Bosco is no stranger to giving back, with a community service background her store has been know to hosting clothing swaps with the additional clothing going to charity. Her number one tip for being a frugal fashionista? "Whatever you buy (make sure) it is something that you will wear forever".

The underlying theme of the event was all about giving back to local businesses and celebrating your love of fashion on a dime. Founder of Frugal Fashion Week and creator of B.Skin Bath and Beauty, Gillian Downes found her inspiration for the event to be the poor economy and lack of attention for small businesses. For her, Frugal Fashion Week is all about supporting your city and giving back to the community. In fact, proceeds of the fashionable event go to Windfall, Canada's new clothing bank. Fashion after all, is not only about creative expression, it is also about supporting young design talent and small businesses. By doing that, you will also be benefitting the economy and help bring entreprenuers the kind of business they deserve.

Downes feels that it is important to show some love for all levels of retail, "buy an expensive pair of shoes, but save on a basic t-shirt" she says. With high hopes for Frugal Fashion Week including expansions in Hamilton, Windsor and even Athens, Greece, I have no doubt that wherever she goes the event will be nothing but a success.

Make sure to check out the official launch party tonight at West Queen West's, The Social. Enjoy a bar top fashion show and midnight madness sale at 69 Vintage. Doors open at 8pm with a $5 admission. Click here to RSVP http://www.frugalfashionweek.com/ffwevents.htm

Amanda

Have A Hoot

Dan sent this submission in - the Kepora Gebora Owl from Zelda, done by Mikey Sarrat at High Noon Tattoo, Pheonix, AZ.

Necklaces and Bracelets and Charms oh my!: Smart Sass Designs by Eunice Tan

Jewellery. It is the icing on any outfit. It is what can make a seemingly plain outfit into something marvelous. It can also turn a seemingly stylish outfit into fashion roadkill.

This past Saturday I happened to be strolling down St. Clair Avenue West and came across the WychCraft Market, a weekly market featuring hand made and unique creations by Ontario's artisans. In the past, they have featured vintage clothing from Vanessa Pinkas and cute accessories by Camille Stone, but this time they had jewellery by Smart Sass Designs by Eunice Tan.

Her delicate yet ethnic inspired accessories are ideal for any fashionista with an eclectic taste or a lover of all things unique. Some of my favourite pieces were a gold chain necklace with a pink flower charm surrounded by beads and a silver chain necklace with a skull charm and purple jewels. Being inspired by everyday items, Eunice has created earrings out of chopsticks. Each of her intricately designed pieces have interesting names like, Royal Romance Bangle, Spider Choker and Ice Queen.

If you are ever in the market for jewellery that is eclectic, delicate and eco-friendly then check out http://www.smartsass.etsy.com/ where you can find Smart Sass Designs with a price range of $12-18.

Amanda

Hoot Attack Man

A Tattooist submission from Julia Seizure, Star Crossed Tattoo, Hong Kong.

Hoot Rod

Julius sent in this excellent submission, can't have been easy to sit through. As he explains, 'this is a tattoo on my ribcage of and illustration of Hegel's quote, "The Owl of Minerva only spread's its wings at dusk". It was done my Bill Keiffer at Eden Tattoo in San Diego.'

Hoot to Trot

Di sent in this owl, done by by artist Chad Weigert of Why Not Tat2's, Kirksville, MO

Photo of the Day

Don't you just love when a new issue of magazine comes out? Isn't is so exciting? I love the cover of the new issue of Flare Magazine. Katy Perry looks radiant, fresh and beautiful wearing Emilio Pucci and necklaces by Gemma Redux.

Amanda

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: A Review of Flashback

On a recent shopping with my mother we were in need of something unique and slightly formal. I decided to take her to Toronto's Kensington Market to give her a tour of the T.O.'s vintage clothing capital. We strolled down the narrow streets in the summer sun and stumbled upon Flashback.

As we walked, in we were instantly surrounded by tons and tons of gorgeous leather, vintage handbags (my favourite) whose origins spanned a number of decades. Surrounding the cash desk were cute belts and printed scarves cleverly placed in a vintage stroller. The accessories were tempting but we were on a mission for the perfect outfit for our upcoming special occasion. Towards the back you can find a number a printed '60's shift dresses, gold brocade dresses, fuller flared skirts and the list goes on.

My mother found a few clothing items to try on and happily sat in the big velvety couch chair located in the middle of the store ready to voice my opinion of each outfit Nina Garcia style. Each outfit looked great. My favourites were a pink floral dress with a scoop neckline and a printed fuller flared skirt reminiscent on 1950's Cuba. The lovely sales associate was very helpful always suggesting different outfits and reminded me of Alice Cullen with her short hair and pixie-like demeanor.

This was a successful shopping trip. I may not have ended up with anything but my mom sure did! It just goes to show you that in a cool, hip vintage store like Flashback there is a little something for everyone.

Amanda

Portobello East Debuts its First Ever Fashion + Art Market

Starting this July 26th from noon to 6pm and every Sunday until December, Toronto's Distillery District will be hosting Canada's east coast first ever Portobello East Fashion + Art Market.

This event has been held in Vancouver and Calgary for several years and now welcomes itself to the T.O. Portobello East fashion version of a farmer's market selling unique pieces by local fashion designers, jewellery designers and artisans.

Be sure to stop by and pick up a piece to add to your wardrobe or art collection provided by the creations of the over 80 designers that are present every Sunday. Admission to the markte is $5 and free for children under 12.

Visit http://www.portobelloeast.com/ for more details.

Amanda

Win a Diane Von Furstenberg Fall Wardrobe!

Although you are still enjoying the lovely summer that is a whole different story in the retail world. Most stores are already presenting their fall collections and it has me daydreaming about my fall wardrobe, which is why this is the perfect time to enter this fabulous contest to a Diane Von Furstenberg fall wardrobe!

Click on the following link http://www.facebook.com/dvf?v=app_48008362724 and you will connected to the DVF-Diane Von Furstenberg Facebook Fan Page to enter the exciting contest.

Amanda

Project Runway Preview!

If you are as excited about the upcoming season of Project Runway USA as I am, then check out this preview by clicking the link below!

Enjoy,

http://perezhilton.com/tv/index.php?ptvid=9cf4964bc5248

Amanda

Canadian Fashion Photography: Canadaswear.ca

Have you ever wished there was one source where you could find information on all the fashion events happening in Toronto?

What if that source included loads of photographs you could view so it felt like you have experienced some of these events first hand.

Well, ladies and gentleman here is your chance! Canadawears.ca provided a photographic look at the most exciting fashion events occuring in the GTA. They also provide a helpful list of any upcoming events going on in the fashion industry that you can mark on your calendars!

Amanda

Photo(s) of the Day

Selma Blair looks stunning in these looks by Versace. The colours are radiant and she exudes a glamorous sophistication. Bravo!

Amanda

Hoot Cross Bun

One of the best ever reader submissions next I think, from Joy, done by Dean Williams at Elm Street Tattoo in Dallas, TX.

Wherever I lay my hoot

Another reader submission (I'm catching up, I'm now at the one submitted at the start of July!?!) from Andrew this time.

Hoot The Breeze

This barn owl was sent in by Leslie, done by Brian Morris.

Hip Hip Hootay

Reader submission from 'Harsh', from Kazan in Russia, done by his friend 'Leprechaun'. We're certainly not in Kansas anymore...

LIV by Au Lit: A Step Inside A Beautiful Lifestyle

Step inside big french doors and look around you. First you are greeted by soft beige and yelllow, plush fabrics and sparkling chandeliers. As you turn to your left you are greeted by casual boho dresses and tops by Dagg and Stacey, Lucy Love and JWLA. The clothing is so soft and pretty it makes you want to prance in a beautiful field whilst blowing bubbles and admiring the bright sun. As you continue to look around you see vintage bed frames and nightstands. Gold trimmed tea sets and books called My Flea Market Finds. Where am I? You may begin asking yourself. You are at no other than LIV by Au Lit, a lifestyle store located on 418 Eglinton Avenue West.

LIV by Au Lit, run by Joanna Goodman is the sister store to Au Lit Fine Linens which is run by her mother Peggy Byron. It focuses on combining clothing, jewellery and home accessories to bring to you what they promise is "the lifestyle you can't resist". LIV by Au Lit has a welcoming and serene feeling that makes you want to cozy up with a good book. It has a free form layout that draws you throughout the store's exceptional displays that are reminiscent of the perfect bedroom. LIV by Au Lit is not only a picturesque store for girlie girls everywhere, it is also a supporter of Canadian designers and benefiting Breast Cancer awareness. 100% of the proceeds of all their in-store events go to Breast Cancer awareness including all the sales of a sumptuous pink robe made of organic cotton.

If you are ever in the mood to venture off into to a store fit for the Aphrodite in all of us, then LIV by Au Lit is the store for you. For more information, visit their website: http://www.livbyaulit.com/

Amanda

Behind-the-Scenes: Bandits in Bows presented by Maybe by Sarah Catalfo!

Alright, as official reporter for the highly anticipated fashion show presented by Maybe by Sarah Catalfo, "Bandits in Bows" coming up I am hear to report that things are going smoothly.

The team is about to compile the guestlist and begin inviting all the fabulous members of the fashion industry. The samples are looking gorgeous and the dates are confirmed.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes information on Maybe by Sarah Catalfo presents "Bandits in Bows"!

Amanda

Shopping along the Eglinton Way!

On a morning stroll yesterday I decided to venture to Yonge and Eglinton, an area that I normally visit when wanting to watch a movie or go to the Pickel Barrel but this time it is for what I love the most shopping!

I was on a mission to find some of fabulous New York designer, Yumi Kim's pieces and found my way first into TNT, then TNT Gallerie and finally TNT Blu. When I first walked into the spacious and minimal store, (TNT that is) I was first taken aback by their collection of white pants and bright colourful tops by Theory. As I continued to browse throughout the store I found some beautiful pieces by Philip Lim including a Chanel-inspired crochet jacket and brown evening top with a gold chain neckline. It was interesting indeed, however I was unable to find me some Yumi Kim. It was then that the sales associate directed me to TNT Blu but before I venture there, I stopped by TNT Gallerie next door.

TNT Gallerie looks like, you guessed it! An art gallery. Continuing with the minimal theme of the store, the clothes beautifully stood out. What I loved there was a to die for leather bomber jacket by Vogue/CFDA recipient, Alexander Wang. This was the type of jacket that makes coun the days down the fall. I also loved a fuschia cocktail dress with feather trim by Badgley Mischka. Now I was on my way to TNT Blu. At this location I was able to find Yumi Kim and admired the beautiful floral printed kimono tops. I also spotted a few cute maxis dresses and lots of studded Balmain-esqe jean vests and jackets.

I also spotted a cute sewing workshop for all you aspiring sewers out there! It is called Sew Be It and they have sewing workshops during throughout the year including bra making DIY swimsuit. This studio is geared towards the younger fashion set, think tweens and teens with a Fashion Design Program for Teens. It's great for any teenager who is aspiring to enter the fashion world and I am all for that! For more information visit: http://www.sewbeitstudio.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=frontpage&Itemid=1

Do you have a favourite place to shop in Toronto? If so, where?

Amanda

Parachoot

Sorry, I've been getting well behind with posts, I'll make a concerted effort to catch up with reader submissions asap. However, the oldest unposted submission is one of the best, sent in by Dan of his fiance Amorrina's day of the dead owl tattoo done Ace at Chill Mode in San Jose, Ca.

Canada's Next Top Model Has a Winner!

Congratulations to Canada's Next Top Model Cycle 3 winner, Winnipeg native Meghan Waller!

The blonde beauty won the modelling competition after a fierce battle where she had to strike a pose, strut down the catwalk and travel to New York City.

Best wishes Meghan! We look forward to seeing you on the cover of FASHION Magazine and showing what you got at fashion week!

Amanda