Summer Reads

Summer's hot months are the perfect time to relax and do some much desired reading. Here are a few recommendations to all who love the art of fashion and photography. 

Marilyn- a biography by Norman Mailer

This book is a combination of two books. Not only is it a biography, it is also a pictorial retrospective of Marilyn Monroe and her love affair with the camera. The collaboration of her biography and images give the reader two histories, one in words, and another in breathtaking photographs. 

Influence- Ashley Olsen, Mary-Kate Olsen

As identical twins, we have grown up aspiring to be dress like the Olsen Twins.  Due to their impeccable fashion taste, we are proud to say that they are our fashion icons.  Influence is comprised of numerous interviews and images of influential fashion icons.  From Karl Lagerfeld to Christian Louboutin, the twins cover the notable fashion 411. 

The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Women Must Own - Nina Garcia

A close girlfriend gave M and I this book as part of our 20th birthday gift. This handbook summarizes the top 100 staple pieces every fashionista should own. Its simple text and illustrations make this book a pure delight to read. 

So grab some Starbucks and get reading! 

The Finest in the City

There are an astonishing number of talented individuals in Toronto, and we are so privileged to know just a few of the city's cream of the crop.  Here are just a few of the designers and entrepreneurs that we were lucky enough to meet last week at the launch of YYZ Living Magazine. 

91:1 Accessories


Sally Han and her Psalms 91:1 Accessories team are Toronto based jewellery designers who we hold dear to our hearts.  Her stunning pieces are designed to reflect a story. Not only do we adore her women's line, we also love her men's line, which, when paired with simple outfits, can be worn as statement pieces.  With her studio located in the heart of the city, it’s convenient to attend her fantastic events.  Keep an eye out for her in the city!


www.psalms911accessories.com/






DeMoyo

Toronto fashion designer, Pai DeMoyo Chideya caught our attention with her stunning citrus orange self designed dress. This was paired with an extravagant black cropped blazer, another piece from her line. Her ensemble was an instant conversation starter.  Her radiant outfit was definitely a reflection of her personality and talent. Keep your eyes peeled for her fall 2011 collection. Visit her website at:


 www.paidemoyochideya.com




Garde Del Avante


We met the fabulous Naanafya, the Creative Director of Garde Del Avante, before we even stepped foot into the event.  Her stunning jewellery pieces could be seen from down the street, quite literally.  Based in Toronto, Naanafya designs bold statement pieces that you will not find anywhere else.  Here is our personal favourite from her line, hopefully a piece we can add to our wardrobe! You can find her stunning pieces here: 


http://www.gardedelavante.com/



Monroe Necklace 



Naanafya, Creative Director of Garde Del Avante (right)

M5V Realty


Along with our passion for fashion, we have been interested in the real estate business for as long as we can remember. Naturally, we were attracted to the fabulous, and very well dressed,  Jason Johnson who is a real estate agent with M5V Realty.  
Check out his business here:


www.m5vinc.com



Jason Johnson on the right




Fashion of the Chris

We were lucky enough to attend the YYZ Living Magazine launch party with the ever so fashionable, Chris Allarie. Chris is a talented Journalism student who is passionate about writing and fashion. Don't let his age fool you, this multi-talented teen will keep you in the loop about the hottest fashion trends.
Read his work here:

www.fashionofthechris.com

YYZ Living Magazine

When the most stylish come out to play, expect a night full of fashion forward outfits accompanied by stunning statement pieces. On Thursday June 16th, some of the best dressed Torontonians came together to celebrate the launch of the highly anticipated YYZ Living Magazine. YYZ delivers fashion and lifestyle articles in the finest way. Pick up your copy today to see Toronto's new top of the line lifestyle magazine, it's sure to please.

http://www.yyzliving.com/index2.php

Simplicity

A loose fitting white tee looks great dressed up, and down. However, because we are so petite (standing at only 5'3), it is hard to find a tee that hugs our not so obvious curves, without drowning our figures. We have been on a hunt for 'the perfect' white tee for months and stumbled across an Alexander Wang basic tee at a local vintage store. Along with the shirt, we also stocked up on some vintage jewellery so that we were able to piece together a variety of looks using one staple piece.

Shopping a Neighbour's Closet

M and I were lucky enough to stop by a neighbour's house and look at what she was planning to sell at an upcoming garage sale. As vintage lovers, we instantly fell in love with her closet. Clutches, purses, accessories galore. Here are a few our of favourite finds. (Including a vintage Holt Renfrew purse) 


 As they say, one person’s junk, is another person's treasure. 

Afternoon Tea

What better way to spend a sunny day in Toronto then in Yorkville's finest chocolate boutiques?

Moroco is a chocolate lovers paradise. 

Our recommendations - The Moroco Chicken Club 

Double-smoked Bacon, vine-ripened Tomato, Boston Bibb, Roasted Chicken, Boiled Egg, Pesto Mayo, Seasonal Greens 

($17)

The Spring Rolls

Crisp Spring Rolls filled with warm Dark Chocolate, Banana and Peanut Butter, served with three Dipping Sauces.  

($18)