Fashionista.com knows where to shop, None other than the T.Dot!

As a fashionista, it is important to be well-versed on the fashion ins and outs of all the major cities around the world. New York, Paris, London, Tokyo and Toronto mainly. One look around the T.Dot and anyone can tell that a few of things that reign supreme in the fashion world here are scarves, Canada Goose jackets, leather jackets and vintage, vintage, vintage! It seems like a few other people are starting to take note of what us T.Dot fashionistas wear on our backs, starting with New York-based fashion blog, Fashionista.com!

Recently they posted their first ever shopping guide and they have started with Toronto! If you are familiar with the Toronto fashion scene you will recognize some of the favourites such as, 69 Vintage and Jonathan+Olivia, both on the trendy Ossington as well as the higher-end Holt Renfrew and The Room at the Bay. Written by two Toronto-natives Hayley Phelan current writer at TeenVogue.com and John Ortved, you know that they have a keen eye of what Toronto shopping is all about. Although I am surprised Mendocino, Aritizia and Joe Fresh did not make it onto the list, oh well maybe next time!

Check out the article here!

What are your favourite places to shop in Toronto? Let me know in the comments, Facebook and Twitter!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Fashion Inspiration: Lucy Kaylin Talks to Ed2010

One of the things that I love the most about the fashion industry is how inspiring it is. From a gorgeous Pucci print to a timeless Chanel quilted handbag to hearing how some of the top fashion players have made it to the top. It's not only the beautiful clothes that keep me excited, but it's knowing how they come together, go down the runway and end up in a magazine that keep me on my toes.

The must read website for any future fashion editor, Ed2010.com recently published an informative short interview with Lucy Kaylin, Deputy Editor of O Magazine, the printed tome belonging to the one and only Saint Oprah. Kaylin talks about how she ventured into the publishing industry, embarrassing moments, what a day on the job is like and most importantly, how to end up in a well-respected and fabulous job like hers!

To read the helpful piece, click here and let me know what inspires you to work in the fashion industry in the comments, Facebook and Twitter!

Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Rumour Has It.....Joe Fresh Heading South?

Fashion is always full of gossip and rumours galore with the latest one being that Canadian retail chain, Joe Fresh is heading to the Big Apple!

Following the footsteps of Joseph Mimran's baby Club Monaco, Joe Fresh may soon be available for our southern neighbours to enjoy on none other than Fifth Avenue. Despite having the majority of Joe Fresh stores being attached to Loblaws, the possible NYC location will be a stand alone store, second to Vancouver's location, that Flare.com  is reporting to be 15, 000 square feet.

What Canadian stores would you be interested in seeing on your next trip to the States? What American stores would you like to see on Canadian soil?

Let me know in the comments, Facebook and Twitter!

Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

A New York City Sample Sale!

 

In the land of fashion, west of the Atlantic Ocean we have the Big Apple. A fashion mecca in the world of fashion and home to the most amazing sample sales!

From November 9th to 11th from 9am to 7pm and November 12th from 9am to 5pm there will be a Nanette Lepore Sample Sale! On the 4th floor of 225 West 35th Street. enjoy oodles and oodles of the NYC-based free spirited designer's colourful, fun yet ladylike collections!


Cash and credit cards are accepted so get down there and have fun! 


Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

So you want to live in Manhattan?

As you all know I have spent the last 10 weeks living in the Big Apple! It was an exciting, life-changing experience and I learned some very important lessons about living in the city that never sleeps. As mentioned in a previous post, for part of my stay I lived in the NYCIntern housing for living in Manhattan which is affordable and fit for any student (it even comes with roommates!)

What if you don't want to live the student life while living in New York? What if that's not your thing and you want to live like a real Manhattanite? Ladies and gentlemen, you are in luck!

There are tons of options for those of you who want to live in New York the non-student way. Read on:

1) Corporate Housing!


This is a form of housing that provides furnished or unfurnished apartments for a minimum of 30 days throughout Manhattan. Ideally for anyone who is living in New York City for a short period of time and does not want to sublet (which means you live in a stranger's apartment).

PRO:  It's great because you don't have to buy furniture. Also some offer house keeping and dry cleaning services.

CON: Availability for the apartments fills up really fast so you gotta be quick when booking a place. Be sure to check out the area you would like to live in so you can give the agents an idea of where you would like to live.

Try: Furnished Quarters and Bridgestreet

2) Extended Stay Hotels!


Some hotels offer apartment-style rooms equipped with a full kitchen and appliances, housekeeping and laundry services. These are great because you get the luxury of a hotel at a lower price point.

PRO: You get the feeling of being at home coupled with the benefits of a hotel.

CON: Some apartment-style hotels are located in obscure areas of Manhattan i.e. really North in Manhattan and in the really busy, tourist-y Times Square. Also, some do not provide wireless internet.


Try: Michaelangelo Hotel and Marmara Hotel 

3) Hotel 


If you are going to stay in Manhattan for a month or two, may I suggest staying in a hotel? If you are staying during the summer, many hotels offer discounted prices especially if you are going to there for a long time. The good thing about about living in a hotel is that they want to please YOU so if you have any problems i.e. bed bugs, cockroaches (Very common in NYC. EW! I know.) the hotel staff will be there to assist you in a heartbeat!

PRO: Security, daily housekeeping, a concierge to help guide you through NYC and the front desk to count on if anything goes wrong!

CON: Staying in a hotel can sometimes come at a hefty price however, don't underestimate the word negotiation. Also, many hotels have expensive laundry services and no kitchen or appliances. 


Try: On The Ave 


For part of my stay in Manhattan I stayed in a hotel called, On The Ave and it was great! I didn't have a kitchen but since I was staying there for a long time the hotel staff kindly offered me a mini-fridge to use during my stay. With On The Ave being located on the Upper West Side right across the street from a really cool organic restaurant it wasn't hard to take care of food. And when you live in NYC, who eats inside anyways?

For all of you independent types who would like to live in NYC, I highly suggest trying any of the above accommodations when staying there. Living in an environment that you feel comfortable in while living in a big, foreign city is crucial, so before you go rushing to live in student housing do a little research.

Believe me it is well worth it!

Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Photo of the Day: The Classics

Fall is closer than I would like to think (summer was just so good!) and now it is time to think of what to wear for the chilly months. Over the last few months, I have invested in a number of blazers and coats and when I stumbled upon this picture in my iPhoto I felt inspired! I love mixing the glamorous basics, red, leopard and heels for an overall chic look.

Enjoy!



Amanda amandasfashionspot@gmail.com https://twitter.com/AFSpot

A Day in the Life: I Had A Dream Part Twelve "A Canadian Girl in the New York City"

Well ladies and gentlemen, today was my last night at my very exciting, very fashionable and very wonderful internship. The entire experience was everything that I imagined and more. It was a complete change from anything that I have ever experienced in the fashion industry and I absolutely loved it! Going through this entire experience only reaffirmed all the hopes and dreams I had when moving to New York City and motivate me even more to go after my dreams. Mark my words, this will NOT be the last internship I have in this city. My experience here was only the tip of the iceberg.

Now that the experience is over, here are some valuable lessons that I have learned:

1) Always put yourself out there

Any time an opportunity arises to do something to help out your boss or try out something you have never tried before but have an interest in, do it! This will be an excellent opportunity to learn a new skill or a new facet of the magazine, pr company or showroom, that can be very valuable in helping you determine what direction you would like career to go in and an opportunity to do something fun!

2) Always ask questions

If you are unsure about a given task, don't be afraid to ask questions. It is much better to ask your boss how to do the right thing than not ask and do the wrong thing. That does not mean that you should ask your boss about every lil' thing. Try your best to figure out what you need to do to see if you may be able to find a solution and if that fails, you can always ask your boss.

3) Dreams DO come true

When I first embarked on my journey to New York City, I cannot even tell you how many told me that pursuing an internship here was impossible or that a Canadian pursuing an internship in New York City was unrealistic. As you can see, I am living proof that Canadians can get their foot in the door in the New York fashion industry. Let your haters be your motivators. If you someone tells you that you cannot achieve your life long dream of having a couture show in Paris or writing for British VOGUE, don't let them stop you. Stay focussed on your dream, believe in yourself and enjoy having the last laugh.

That's all fashionistas and fashiomistas! I loved writing about my journey to New York City and I hope I have inspired some of your to achieve your own dreams. Go big or go home and always shoot for the stars! 

I can't believe that my summer in New York City is almost over but this is not goodbye to New York City, it is only see you later!

Enjoy!

Amanda amandasfashionspot@gmail.com https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Twitter World? Amanda's Fashion Spot has arrived!

Dear: Fellow Readers, Followers and Fans of Amanda's Fashion Spot,

As I have mentioned many times on my blog, this is the year of taking risks and moving forward. With that in mind I have decided to take Amanda's Fashion Spot to the Twitter world, so if you are a member of Twitter feel free to follow me there too at https://twitter.com/AFSpot.

Thanks for reading!

Enjoy!

Amanda amandasfashionspot@gmail.com

Sale! Sale! Sale!: Love Potion No. 6 and Big Wang's!

It's everyone's favourite words...................SAMPLE SALE!

One of New York's favourite vintage hot spots No. 6 is having a sample sale this Tuesday, August 3rd starting at 10am. Just in time for those mix and match summer pieces to go with your fall wardrobe. (Sigh, fall is not that far away) Items will be up to 70% off and goody goody gum drops, will continue to be on sale after the sample sale. So check, check, check it out at 6 Centre Market Place in Little Italy. 

That's not all! The recipient of the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund and winner of the Swarovski Womenswear and Accessories Designer of the Year awards, Alexander Wang is also having a sample sale! On Thursday, August 5th from 2pm-7pm, Friday, August 6th 10am-7pm, Saturday, August 7th 10am-7pm and ending on Sunday, August 8 10am-3pm, you can enjoy discounted items from Mr. Wang, the king of the sexy jeans and tee look. You know you love it! Where will you be able to find these fab pieces? At 93 Mercer in New York, New York!

Enjoy!

Amanda amandasfashionspot@gmail.com

A Day in the Life: A Mad Makeover at Banana Republic

New York City is always booming with something fun to do and today that something was a shopping party celebrating the critically acclaimed hit television show, Mad Men at Fifth Ave's Banana Republic.

With 30% off everything in the store and free makeovers from the talented make-up artists from Shiseido at Saks Fifth Avenue, this event was here to celebrate Mad Men's exclusive casting call with Banana Republic.

If you attended the chic soiree, then you are in luck because you had the benefit of receiving a lovely Mad Men inspired makeover as I did. The make-up artist decided to give me a sun-kissed Mad Men look which might I add, looked radiant. She applied shades of brown and gold eyeshadow, pink blush and red lips which accented my blue, purple and yellow dress wonderfully.

When it came to the fashion, Banana Republic stayed true to form with a slew of soft neutral pieces in dresses, cardigans and skirts. My favourite pieces were a buttery soft taupe biker jacket without too many doodads. It had two bias cut lapels and a small silver zipper, just the way I like it. I also enjoyed a lightweight denim boyfriend blazer with flap pockets and a tie at the waist. It is the perfect in between season jacket (Definition: a jacket that you can wear in the spring and autumn).

If you have always wanted to enter the Mad Men universe, all you have to do is visit a local
Banana Republic (in the United States or Canada), take one of the Mad Men brochures, go home and take a photo of yourself in your Mad Men attire and submit that photo along with the unique code in your brochure and you will be entered for a chance to a walk-on role on Mad Men!

Easy as pie!

Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com

Sale! Sale! Sale!: Vivienne Tam Style

We all love a sample sale don't we? Well if you are in Manhattan this Wednesday you are in luck!

Head over to 260 West 39th Street between 7th and 8th Avenue on July 14th at 9am and you will find yourself in the middle of a Vivienne Tam Sample Sale showcasing the 2010 Spring line. Even better, if you spend $200 or more you will receive a FREE butterfly printed scarf.

Don't you just love being given something after you have treated yourself? This will be an excellent opportunity to add to your summer wardrobe!

Enjoy!


Amanda

WINK: The City Made You Look

Upon a stroll in a trendy part of the Upper West Side, amongst Intermix, Theory and excited Eclipse fans lining up at LOEWS theatre, stands WINK. A cute, girly boutique filled with hot pink and silver damask wallpaper and crystal chandeliers. It is not just any WINK store either, but the very same WINK store featured on a recent episode of MTV's The City. If you are like me, you will probably check out the store hoping to try some Whitney Eve pieces but unfortunately you will have to wait until the fall.Until then you can enjoy the lovely, flouncy blouses, rompers and dresses by Yumi Kim and Amanda Uprichard.

       Lining the walls of WINK were lightweight pieces such as an oversized floral t-shirt, a soft brocade style hot pink party dress. My favourite piece had to be a navy blue romper with white stripes with pink and white flowers throughout. Made of silk and designed by Yumi Kim, it is my official go-to piece when I want to look like I have spent the weekend in St. Tropez or the Hamptons.

For you purse lovers out there, WINK has got your covered with their decorated purse wall. That's right! An entire wall decorated with purses hanging from a nail. It takes the concept of fashion meets art to a whole new level. My absolute favourite was a red leather cross body chain bag by Andrea Brueckner. Perfect for your summer nights and autumns days. Hell, it's perfect for everything! 

WINK is my kind of store with the perfect mix of girly fun and chic style. If you ever find yourself on the Upper West Side and need a place to find your perfect summer outfit, this is the place!

Amanda

A Day in the Life: I Had A Dream Part Eleven "A Canadian Girl in the New York City"

It has now been about two weeks since I have been in New York City and boy has it been a whirl wind! I have started my dream internship and it is fabulous. It is fast paced and fast fashion with a whole lotta fun in between.

Having an internship at a magazine and dealing with fashion one would think that in terms of style expression anything goes. However, it is important to remember that even though you may be working in a fun environment, an air of professionalism should be visible in your attire.

Ever wonder what is appropriate to wear at a fashion internship? Well read on my friend for some key advice:

Rule #1-Keep it undercover

Never wear anything that shows too much skin including short shorts, crop tops and low cut tops. The above may be in style and you are working in a fashion department but it does not make it ok to show the whole office your goodies. If you do want to have fun with your wardrobe at work, try it with colours or prints.

Rule #2-

A blazer solves everything, well almost everything

Keeping in mind the above rule, if you are going to have fun with trends in the office a blazer is a great way to keep your look professional. Blazers look great with pretty much everything from a romper, to a dress to skinny jeans with a button-up and are the perfect way to elevate a casual look to a professional one. For example, if you plan on wearing a floral summer dress to your internship pair it with a blazer, it will help take your look from fun in the sun to office appropriate. 

Rule #3-Ditch the heels honey!

Despite the fact there are tons amazing stilettos, wedges and pumps that are in this summer, believe me when I say this, leave them at home! At your internships especially a fashion internship, you will most likely be running around the city, the fashion closet and more. Make sure to wear flat comfortable shoes. You will thank me later!

Well that's fashionable folks! The basics to what you need to know about how to dress appropriately at a fashion internship.

Enjoy!

Amanda

Chillin' on the West Side: A Fashion Comparison

In the West Village you have your hipsters, the West 11st Street Cafe, Magnolia Bakery, and one of my favourites, Marc Jacobs!

On Bleeker Street is the famous Marc Jacobs that carries Marc by Marc Jacobs and his even lower-priced line in which he sells fun items like $11 (woo-hoo!) flip flops and $14 cashmere ankle socks. Actually all the lower-priced, high-quality items remind me of Canada's favourite, Joe Fresh!

Oh the similarities! First, both are loved by the fashion crowd, New York for MJ and Toronto for Joe, second, both are contemporary, fun and colourful when they want to be, third, each dabble in the trends while still staying true to their brand and fourth, each show that being fashionable and high quality can be affordable!

In Canada, Joe Fresh is known for selling a slew of very au courrant yet classic pieces using high quality fabrics while still managing not to break the bank. Marc Jacobs lower-priced line as mentioned above $14 cashmere ankle socks, show that anyone can have a part of the MJ world without maxing out the credits cards.

Each time I have come to New York, I always love checking out the Marc Jacob's store because it is full of colourful, fun little pieces that are full of wardrobe inspiration. One of my first pieces from there was a purple quilted bag and today they have an enviable animal print plastic slouchy shoulder bag. They also have a metallic silver MJ monogrammed sleek gym bag that I would love to tote around, along with adorable heart shaped (and broken heart) compact mirrors.

On the clothes front, what is there not to love? My favourites are a squared shaped '60's-style striped double-breasted cardigan that was red, gold and navy, perfect for when fall rolls around. They also had the same jacket in hot pink, orange, white and gold with a matching A-line skirt. Super cute for your summer internship or strolling around on a nice day. I also loved a group of dresses that came in fuchsia and teal with large yellow flowers. They had a pleated neckline and pleated details at the pocket hem. They were made of some sort of silk or sateen and had a lovely shiny finish. Ideal for a summer night first date or a cool concert.

Next time you find yourself in NYC, make sure to make the Marc Jacobs store in the West Village one of you first shopping stops. You will not be disappointed, I promise.

Enjoy!

Amanda

Park Avenue Princess: Siman Tu Gallery

On a lovely stroll today in the afternoon, I basked in the sunlight and admired all the very fashionable people on the Upper East Side. One older woman was donned in gold linen pants accompanied by a gold twin set and fabulous sunglasses. Another wore a tunic style dress with embellished sandals. If there is one place to spot out something special to add to your collection of clothing or accessories, New York is the place so it was no surprise to me when I stumbled upon the beautiful Siman Tu Gallery.

As I walked in, I was immediately greeted by the sparkling diamonds and breathtaking freshwater pearl necklaces accompanied by French music, live chirping birds and garden-like vignettes. Siman Tu after all, is a haute couture jewellery designer who has had his exquisite necklaces grace the necklines of Barbara Walters, Anne Hathaway and Tyra Banks as well as made frequent appearances on Gossip Girl.

His pieces are absolute standouts with their hint of glamour and sophistication providing just the right amount of detail. Favourite pieces include: a medium strand pearl necklace with a delicate floral brooch attached at the top, fit for a princess or very elegant lady and gorgeous turquoise chandelier earrings that would match perfectly with a large turquoise statement necklace, each both featured on Gossip Girl.

The beautiful pieces are all handmade in house at the flagship store on 860 Lexington Ave. so if you are in the area be sure to visit this store because you will not be disappointed.

Amanda

New York Fashion at its Finest: Costume Institute Gala at the MET

Being in New York I am beginning to realize that there is no fashion event more glamorous and fabulous than the annual MET Ball, where the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art hosts an exhibit dedicated to a theme associated with fashion. Last year it was The Model As Muse and this year it was American Fashion-which by the way was absolutely fabulous!

In my opinion, there is no better red carpet than the MET Ball red carpet because designers and fashionistas a like really pull out the stops in terms of their red carpet looks. This year I would say was less experimental than last but still just as glamorous and fabulous. Be hold some of my favourite MET ball red carpet looks:

It's pretty easy to call these two a modern day Mick and Jerry. With their rock 'n' roll style and uber fashionable children, these two are a couple that we will all remember. At this years MET Gala, they each complemented each other beautifully with Gwen's sheer wrapped fitted gown and Gavin's classic tuxedo accented by none other than a bow tie.

Dark metallics are done right is this form fitting, sleek gown. It has a hint of the futuristic look that is shown everywhere, however it manages to still have a good dash of old Hollywood sexiness.Oh SJP! Everyones favourite fashionista! This is absolutely fun and whimsical with its '70's vibe and full skirt. Not only is this dress lovely but it also easy breezy. Fun, fun, fun!
I always love an elegant ruffle here and dash of colour there especially when those features complement each other so nicely. The shade of framboise goes beautifully with Naomi's shiny blonde hair and colourful pout with the accessories adding the right amount of sparkle!

Kate Hudson truly epitomizes the definition of glamorous bohemia. She is either rocking a laid back earth mama look or a sexy bombshell look and here she manages to do a little bit of both with the relaxed draping and glittery sparkle. Bon Bon!

Enjoy!

Amanda

A Day in the Life: I Had A Dream Part Nine

I have arrived! After months of planning, blood, sweat and tears I have FINALLY made to the Big Apple. Boy, does it feel good! It just goes to show you that no matter what NEVER give up on your dreams and always work hard.

Here's fashion dreaming!

Amanda

A Day in the Life: I Had a Fashion Dream Part Huit

It is now less than two weeks until I leave for New York City for the summer to pursue my dream internship!!! I am so excited. In order to be prepared, I have already completed the majority of my packing and boy does it feel good to go through all of my wardrobe and put together some new outfits. I love doing that! It is the best way to discover new outfits that were sitting right under your nose.

I have discovered that amidst all the items that I plan on bringing with me, I need more shoes. Shoes are something that I hardly buy (shocking, I know) but I find that with flat feet it is difficult to find stylish, comfortable shoes. On my next shopping trip, I will be on a mission to find some shoes that will be suitable for my internship and the streets of New York City.

Here is my list so far:

Wedges

I love these for they are the perfect summer heel and have a way of looking a little 1950's retro pin-up.

Birkenstocks

These are one of the best shoes for your feet and actually look quite stylish with distressed denim shorts and a boho blouse. Comfort and style, what more could a girl ask for?

Black Pumps

I have a great double-strap mary jane pair but unfortunately they have overstayed their welcome in my closet and it is time to say goodbye. There is nothing worse than a ratty old stiletto in the shoedrobe. Not sexy. Not comfortable. Right now, I love pumps that have a slight platform at the heel a la Monsieur Louboutin, it makes heels that much more comfortable.

Oxfords

Boy meets girl. Oh how I love oxfords! Finally a stylish alternative to a running shoe and comfortable flat shoe all in one! As I mentioned above, I have flat feet so I find shoes that are completely flat as well, most comfortable making them perfect for a day at the internship! Cream, soft grey and blush are best for this style because I find dirt is less noticeable making it perfect for those New York City streets. Did I mention how much I love oxfords?

Well that's all for now! Are there any shoes that you find most haves your summer internships or strolling around the city? Do tell!

Enjoy!

Amanda

A Day in the Life: I Had a Fashion Dream Part Sept

It is now about three weeks until I leave the great Toronto for the Big Apple to begin my dream internship! I am excited, anxious and busily going through all the things that I need to do before I arrive in the fashion capital of North America.

I am currently finalizing the necessary forms that I need for my SWAP visa, the necessary forms that I need for my internship course and the information that I need for my apartment. All I can say is, I am pooped! Beyond exhausted. However, no matter how stressed out or tired I may feel, I always have to remember that achieving a dream that at one point seemed so far fetched, was not always going to be smooth sailing. When achieving a fashion dream or any dream it is important to never give up and don't ever stop believin'!

At this point it seems that the only major things that I need to do is to start packing! I don't even know where to begin, I always over pack and want to bring everything. You know, just in case I might want to wear that black sequined dress? However, given the weight and luggage limitation that apply when traveling I must be selective when I begin to pack.

Here is a tentative list of what I will need,

1)Bottoms:

-Jeggings/Leggings (oh how I love these!) 4 pairs

-Denim skinny jeans 5 pairs

-Skirts 5

-Shorts 5

2)Tops

-Professional 4

-Casual 5

-Fun/Evening 6

3)Dresses

-Professional 5

-Casual 4

-Evening/Fun 4

So far that seems right, although I am sure there will be many more changes so stay tuned for updates! How do you go up about packing for long trips? If you have any tips I would love to hear them!

Enjoy!

Amanda

A Day in the Life: I Had a Fashion Dream Part Six!

Spring has sprung! I am happy to announce that I have achieved my dream internship in New York City! I am very excited and cannot wait to begin!

Before time comes to make the final move there are a few final touches that need to be made:

1) In order to be in the United States for a certain period of time, I must have a VISA to ensure that I legally am able to work for the duration of my internship. Upon hearing this information, I immediately approached a company called SWAP that assists with individuals who are in my situation. For those of you that are interested in obtaining an internship abroad, contact this company because it is a straightforward and helpful way to obtain work VISAs abroad.

With one thing checked of my list for my NYC Dream Internship, there are few more things that need to be done.

Stay tuned!

Amanda