By Eudora Koh, Modern Mix Vancouver writer

Modern Mix Vancouver was invited to the spring/summer 2012 showcase hosted by Oak and Fort.

The quaint and delicate Oak and Fort boutique is situated in gastown, such an appropriate neighborhood as it is also home to many underground and fashion forward styles and shops. I love seeing collections that smaller boutiques choose every season because I know their pieces will be unique and different than what is sold at mainstream retail chains.  The store was founded in 2010, and has since been offering Vancouverites a selection of international and quality garments. The very special part is that sometimes their in-house designers fuse together collections with their own (Oak and Fort’s) designs, resulting in one of a kind pieces that Oak and Fort can call unique to their brand.

The media event that evening was lovely, from the breads, cheese, drinks, pastel decorated cupcakes and the harpist in the window case (yes, a harpist!), playing beautiful music for guests. The in-store setting was very intimate, with models posing every 15 minutes to showcase Oak and Fort’s spring/summer collection, giving guests the opportunity to take some great photos.

From initial observations, the Oak and Fort ss2012 collection is full of very soft colors and light and flowing material. You can expect to see sheer blouses, long dresses and skirts, light weight trousers, shorts, and shawls, as well as neutral and versatile tops. The collection very much embodies their buying team’s vision of culture, art, fashion and exploration. You can be certain you will make full use of Oak and Fort pieces because the colors are neutral enough to mix and match with various outfits so that one piece can create so many different looks, both casual and formal.

The ss2012 collection represents that effortlessly chic look—what you expect a trend setter to wear in the upcoming warmer seasons. Unlike many smaller boutiques that carry international designers, the nice thing about Oak and Fort is their reasonable and affordable pricing.  I highly recommend checking Oak and Fort out if you haven’t already. Alternatively, you can visit the Oak and Fort website to view the spring/summer 2012 collection and shop online.

On Friday April 27th, the Shops at Morgan Crossing (15765 Croydon Drive, Surrey) will be hosting A Night of Fashion, in support of Arts Umbrella. Activities run all afternoon and evening, from 1 p.m. onwards.  The event starts with glamorous pre-evening activities including consultations with Canadian stylist Claudia Da Ponte at Winners; makeovers courtesy of London Drugs; and exclusive deals from Blo Dry Bar, Pure Nail Bar and Noir Lash Lounge starting at 1 p.m. (Appointments must be made directly with retailers.)

The evening festivities begin at 6 p.m. with exclusive fashion shows hosted by retailers Banana Republic and Hudson Madison. Calvin Klein will be hosting an in-store event with DJs, cocktails and live models! Dunn’s Tailors will be hosting a Men’s Lounge throughout the evening, complete with Whiskey tastings and hot shaves, by donation. Outside, Langley BMW and Langley Mini will showcase the latest and greatest in German-engineered automotive technology under the concierge tent.

There is no cost to attend the event, but donations are encouraged for some activities with all proceeds to support Arts Umbrella.

Back by popular demand isPacific Centre’s Spring Style Bar.  Be the first to get an inside look to this seasons must-haves. Become part of this fun and welcoming atmosphere while discovering the latest trends in fashion, footwear and everything in-between.  Discover the latest must-have style, see what’s hot for hair and makeup, and find the perfect look personalized for you.

Hurry and book your free one hour fashion consultation appointment with our Style Expert ($175 Value). Spaces available on a first serve basis. Contact Guest Services at 604.688.7235 or pccguestservices@cadillacfairview.com to schedule your appointment today.

The Spring Style Bar opens on Wednesday, April 18 at 5PM on the upper level across from H&M.

Wednesday April 18: 5PM
Thursday April 19: 5PM
Friday April 20: 5PM
Saturday April 21: 1PM
Thursday April 26: 5PM
Friday April 27: 4PM
Saturday April 28: 1PM

“I don’t know about you, but I am sick and tired of sanctimonious, impossible diet and exercise plans in magazines and books by so-called experts. I mean, who the hell can really live on 1,200 miserable calories worth of egg Beaters, skinless chicken, and salad greens?”
- Jacquie Somerville, My Fat Little Rule Book

By Joanna Lee, Modern Mix Vancouver writer

My Fat Little Rule Book is the soon-to-be-released book from Jacquie Somerville, a local entrepreneur, foodie and fashionista from Vancouver. The pre-launch event was held at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia on March 21st where Jacquie gave the first public reading from her new book. As her first published work, My Fat Little Rule Book is about Jacquie’s lifelong battle with body image – a topic familiar for many in today’s society – and how she was able to come to terms with being both a fashionista and foodie. Jacquie wrote the book as a guide for herself with 15 rules she established to help her achieve her ideal weight. It is her first-hand account of the pressure to “look fabulous in Gucci while salivating over Gorgonzola”.

My Fat Little Rule Book is an entertaining and humorous read of Jacquie’s 35-day diet and exercise plan, and how she was able to lose the “last ten pounds.” She intertwines her personal journal entries with postscripts to which women will relate. It is not only a book about food and fashion, but delves deeper into topics of motivation and how goal-setting can impact one’s self-worth and self-confidence.

My Fat Little Rule Book will be available in e-format within the next few weeks. Jacquie is also giving away free copies of the book, click here to find out more.

]]> http://modernmixvancouver.com/index.php/2012/03/24/my-fat-little-rule-book-by-vancouvers-jacquie-somerville/feed/ 0 http://modernmixvancouver.com/index.php/2012/03/23/yyoga-warehouse-sale-march-23-24-2012/ http://modernmixvancouver.com/index.php/2012/03/23/yyoga-warehouse-sale-march-23-24-2012/#comments Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:01:07 +0000 vanessa http://modernmixvancouver.com/?p=7230
YYoga is holding its annual warehouse sale at Rize Mount Pleasant (196 Kingsway x E. 10th Ave) this Friday and Saturday (March 23-24) from 11am to 7pm on Friday and 11am to 5pm on Saturday.  Don’t miss your chance to save 50% to 70%-off on yoga clothes, gear, jewelry and lifestyle apparel.  Fresh stock will be placed out for March 24th. Get your hands on brands like Tonic, Karma Wear, Sonja Picard, Prana, Havaianas, Hardtail, Om Girl, Alternative Apparel, Sasha Eillenna & more.  Plus, there will be clearout items ranging from $5 – $20.

Cash and credit are accepted as payment, there is also an ATM available. Street and mall parking is available.

By Eudora Koh, Modern Mix Vancouver writer

Deep in the heart of Richmond lays the seaside town of Steveson, known for its boardwalk and fishing culture. What may not be top of mind for many when it comes to Steveson is clothing, fashion and style. But those were the only things on everyone’s mind last Friday at Violet Hill Boutique, nestled amongst other small shops in the small community.  Modern Mix Vancouver was invited to the exclusive media event, which drew some of the city’s most influential fashionistas and offered colourful macaroons, tasty cheeses, lots of bubbly, and most important, beautiful and one of a kind designer pieces handpicked by Nicola Gillam, owner of Violet Hill boutique.

Nicola grew up in Steveson and wanted to share with her community the boutique experience when it comes to clothing, fashion and accessories. With a major in History and Political Sciences, Nicola realized later, like many graduates, that she wanted to do something in life unrelated to her education. With her love of fashion, her natural ambition, and a business saavy mindset, Nicola opened up Violet Hill Boutique in August 2011, naming it after her favorite Cold Play song.

We heard several remarks about how the pretty boutique decor of Violet Hill makes you think it belongs in Yaletown or Kitsilano.  But that’s the beauty of it! Violet Hill boutique itself is such a cozy little shop that is decorated and furnished just like a teahouse, brightly lit with high celings, detailed white trimming around the walls and windows, and a deep blue that cover the walls.

With a bohemian flair as a common theme amongst all selected pieces, labels at Violet Hill boutique range from the recognizable Gentle Fawn to Alternative Apparel, to labels I was introduced to (and fell in love with!) such as Eryn Brinie, Liebeskind and Valerie Dumaine. Along with the many neutral and earthy tones available in store, there are also a select few bright and funky colors that will pair well with your wardrobe staples. Both the dressier and more casual pieces were consistent with the practicality, trendiness and femininity that encompass Violet Hill.

Many of the tees and blouses caught my eye, as well as spring dresses made from stiffer material, but still held that cute nautical and classic style. There are so many unique pieces in store, that are decently priced and ones that you won’t find anyone else wearing on the busy downtown streets. Similarly, the accessories sold in Violet Hill are one of a kind, including the Social Experiment collection of Westcoast-inspired cocktail rings ($28). Georgia Heraty, designer and creator of the cocktail rings, was at the event to take custom orders for her gorgeous rings, two of which I purchased at the event and can’t stop wearing!  Meanwhile, Vanessa purchased a 14k gold and amethyst necklace ($89) from another Vancouver designer, Chantale Jewelry Designs.

So the next time you’re in Steveson, be sure to check out the purple jewel by the sea, Violet Hill, which is just as stylish and chic as any other boutique you will find in downtown Vancouver. You can’t miss it!  For more photos, check out the gallery below with photos by MCS Photos.

MMV Giveaway: Modern Mix Vancouver is giving away a $50 Gift Certificate to Violet Hill Boutique! Leave a comment below telling us what your favourite springtime accessory is.  A random winner will be chosen from the comments below. Be sure to leave your email address so we can contact you if you’re a winner. Contest ends Sunday, April 8th (11:59pm PST).  Winner will pick up their $50 Gift Certificate in store at Violet Hill (12211 No 1 Road, Richmond).

For additional entries, you can do the following things;

• For a second entry: Follow @ModernMixVan on Twitter and tweet “I want to win $50 to @VHillBoutique from @ModernMixVan http://bit.ly/GT16nI . RT to enter!”
• For a third entry: “Like” the Modern Mix Vancouver Page on Facebook and post on the wall “I want to win $50 to Violet Hill Boutique from Modern Mix Vancouver! http://bit.ly/GT16nI”

 A winner in cosmetics because of its versatility, Tangerine Tango is a bit exotic, but in a very friendly, non-threatening way. Add a sultry flair to lips, cheeks and nails with Tangerine Tango. An unexpected eye shadow color, Tangerine Tango is a complementary opposite that flatters blue or green eyes. When paired with brown eyes, it brings out an amber cast.

Energize interior spaces with Tangerine Tango patterned home accessories. Pillows, bedspreads and tabletop accessories in this high-impact hue add spice to any room. Or incorporate Tangerine Tango appliances and personal electronics for an unexpected pop of color. Looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your home? Paint a wall in Tangerine Tango for a dynamic burst of energy in the kitchen, entryway or hallway.

We’ve scoured the internet for items available in Vancouver which are sure to get heads turning towards you in 2012 and blast away the winter blahs.

1. Pantone Swatch “17-1463″ - Also known as Tangerine Tango.
2. Allison Wonderland “Portrait Dress” in red –  According to Vancouver-based designer Allison Smith, colour blocking is in.  The portrait dress from the Allison Wonderland Spring 2012 collection is fun and flirty, and makes a statement without being too formal. ($194 available at Allison Wonderland)
3. Deborah Lippmann “Lara’s Theme” – A “dare to wear” shade in a tangerine orange.  Deborah Lippmann’s nail lacquers is 3-Free (no formaldehyde, toluene and phtalates) and made with the finest ingredients, offering more than just gorgeous color, but also treatment benefits. Natural ingredients strengthen, hydrate, stimulate nail growth and prevent ridge formation ($20 available at Spa Boutique on West 4th Ave)
4. Glerup “Wool Slipper” in Orange –  Indoor slippers originated from Denmark and now available in Vancouver.  Made from 100% natural wool, made into socks and felted with steam to mimic the shape of your foot with a leather sole.  ($99 available online at glerup.ca, other colours available at Twigg & Hottie on Main Street and Walrus on Cambie Street)
5. Kusmi Tea “Boost” - A blend of mate, green tea and spices help naturally stimulate body and mind through this loose leaf tea. ($20 for Kusmi brand teas at Homewerx on Davie Street and Vancouver Special on Main Street).
6. Pantone Mug - official memorabilia from Pantone, this is a definite collector’s item for colour lovers. ($25 available online at Pantone.com)
7. Smitten Designs – local designer Laurie Simpkins is the designer behind this tangerine-coloured flower cameo with two strands of gold-plated chain (available for $89 at Jules & Eve in Kerrisdale and Changes on West 10th, other pieces available at Lord’s Shoes on South Granville)

What better way to start your morning off than to have breakfast at Tiffany’s?  Modern Mix Vancouver was lucky enough to enjoy that experience this morning at the grand opening of Vancouver’s 2^nd Tiffany and Co. retail shop at Oakridge Centre. As one of the world’s premier jewelers, Tiffany’s fits rights into the upscale and trendy neighborhood of the Oakridge area. Hosted by Tiffany and Co. and Hawksworth Communications, the event was on par with what you would imagine a Tiffany and Co. event to be: Tiffany Blue, sophisticated, classy, not overwhelming shiny, and of course, full of exceptional customer service.

Tiffany's Hostesses at the Grand Opening of the Tiffany & Co. Oakridge Location

As you walked into the entrance of the new store, which replaced the old Montecristo Jewellers, you were greeted by two lovely Tiffany and Co. models wearing dresses in the signature color, Tiffany Blue. And because this was a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” event, while guests were mingling and walking around they were served coffee, mimosas, freshly squeezed juices, and bite-sized breakfast treats that included: smoked salmon on Pepperidge shortbread with cream cheese and dill, chicken sausage breakfast sandwiches, and quail egg topped with golden caviar. Lavish indeed.

As for the store itself, elements of the flagship Tiffany and Co. on Fifth Avenue were incorporated into its design, including the glass exterior at the entrance of the store and its stainless steel entry doors framed with the wheat leaf to symbolize nature, a reoccurring pattern throughout the New York City store. We browsed the store and looked at all the exquisite and classic pieces that Tiffany’s is known for.

The collections that I personally adored the most were the affordable Tiffany charms and the lock and key pendants, and a new collection to which I was introduced today: the Elsa Peretti designer collection, and her most recent collection of  bottle shaped pedants. Their price points are slightly higher, but they are very popular sellers, being marked by Elsa Peretti’s “fluid lines and sensual forms” in design.  Meanwhile, another favourite of mine was the signature “Return to Tiffany’s” collection of lock and key pendants is part of Tiffany’s iconic designs, all timeless pieces that any girl would love to receive for a gift (wink, wink, nudge, nudge!).

There are three new charms that have just been introduced for the holiday season:

• the mittens charm, with Tiffany Blue enamel finish in sterling silver- $220
• the reindeer charm in sterling silver with red enamel finish- $195
• the stocking charm in sterling silver with Tiffany Blue enamel finish- $250

The Interior of Tiffany & Co. at Oakridge Centre

So, to go back to the initial question: What’s a better way to start your morning off than to have breakfast at Tiffany and Co.’s?   To walk away from that breakfast at Tiffany’s and be given a little signature Tiffany Blue bag with a beautiful necklace inside! I’m so excited about this lovely gift, which is my first official piece of Tiffany’s jewellery. With so many other exquisite pieces that represent and embrace memories and timelessness, I will certainly be putting at least a couple of Tiffany and Co. items on my wish list this Christmas!

Some of the perks of the night:

• 25% off Gap’s new holiday collection
• Get braided at Blo’s Braid Bar
• Stay energized with Frankie’s Candy Bar, Jones Soda and the sounds of DJ Ana
• Swag bag with $50 purchase, 10 bags will randomly contain a FREE pair of premium denim (valued up to $79.95)
• Win a Gap outfit (valued up to $500)

**Photo credit to LittleFashionisto**

By Carolyn Fung, Modern Mix Vancouver writer

On Thursday last week I had the opportunity to attended the (212) 2011/2012 Winter preview. The event was clearly well received with a packed room of local designers, fashion bloggers and supporters at the beautiful Montauk showroom in Gastown.

The inspiration behind (212) comes from owners Scott Walhovd and Anthony Castro. With a degree from Parsons School of deign and a love for the West Coast Anthony and Scott brought together their expertise in 1995 to create (212). With a focus on affordable pricing, this Manhattan inspired store offers Vancouverites a taste of the big city style without the big city prices.

The debut of their 2011/2012 winter collection included classic winter grays, rich navy blues, hints of beige and bright cobalt blue. This year, the focus was on staying true to clean cuts, solid colors and form fitting styles. Small details like asymmetrical cuts and exposed zippers were also included to add a contemporary feel to the classic designs. It was all about layering pieces and staying true the lifestyle of women in Vancouver. Dress shirts layered underneath fitted knit sweaters, turtlenecks and, button ups and skirts. What I loved most about this particular show was the easygoing nature of the clothes for that perfect laid back, sophisticated look.

In order to offer their customers accessible style in a timely manner, (212) chose to debut their winter collection in season rather than months before hand. For customers, this means the instant gratification of knowing their designs are literally hot off the runway.  You can expect prices for this collection to range from $85-$200+. For those of you interested to see more, don’t let the area code fool you. (212) is located right in the heart of Gastown and for those rainy days, you can shop their online store 24/7.