for those about to shop

Feminist Fashion Bloggers: November roundup: Sexuality

2011-11-16T10:22:00.000-05:00

Feminist Fashion Bloggers: November roundup: Sexuality

Shopping around

2009-06-29T20:41:00.002-04:00

For Those About to Shop is excited to announce it's new location at OnSugar
Follow us at our fresh new site where we'll continue to chat about fun and ethical shopping, and add some new, exciting features to the mix.

One-stop shop

2009-06-28T12:33:00.011-04:00

Eco-fashionistas are a dedicated bunch. Committed to earth-friendliness, they'll put in the legwork to ensure their beauty products are truly unmalicious. Through word of mouth or trial and error they travel far and wide to stay true to their sensibilities.
What's that? There's a place that stocks cruelty-free make-up and organic shampoo and fair trade body lotion? And you don't need to leave home to get your hands on all of them? Dedicated not only to the environment but also to supplying its customers with the best possible products, Green Beauty is the one-stop shop for your enviro-conscious beauty needs. The website features tried, tested, and true options such as DaLish cosmetics, Pangea Organics skin care, and Tashodi fair trade bath and body. There's even a dishwasher safe glass drinking straw to preserve your lipstick and reduce touch-ups.

Wonderful Women

2009-06-27T22:23:00.016-04:00

Kim MacGregor is a former fashion model who knows how it feels to stand on the border between an industry with a narrow definition of beauty, and personally wanting to promote self-esteem in all women. With acclaimed fashion photographer, Arline Malakian, who also brings integrity to her art (she spearheaded the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty), MacGregor presents a breathtaking homage in the poetry collection Be A Woman, which captures through words and photographs the beauty and grace inherent in all women.
Malakian and MacGregor's challenge is to garner one million nominations for the Be A Woman award. Website guests will nominate five women in a series of categories and the nominees are honoured with an uplifting letter telling them how amazing they are. The goal is to appreciate more and judge less, and serve as a reminder of the true meaning of beauty.

Representing reality

2009-06-17T21:45:00.004-04:00

When Cheri Milaney showcased her fall collection at Toronto Fashion Week (above), she made the gutsy move of eschewing professional runway models in favour of women of divergent shapes, sizes and ages. Staying fiercely committed to the needs of the women who wear her clothes, Cheri's show injected some much-needed truth into the one-size-fits-all beauty ideal represented at typical runway shows. The crowd was serenaded by a live violin player whose instrument represented the sexy silhouette of a woman.

Like Chanel, Cheri believes the woman should wear the dress and not the other way around, and that it should accentuate her best features, be comfortable and flattering. Tailored jackets, coat dresses, and flattering flowy and wrap tops typify her collection. Designing and manufacturing mainly in Vancouver, Milaney is inspired by the culture, style and fine fabrics of Italy. A complementary line of jewelry is custom-made for each collection.

Creating with a conscience

2009-06-14T19:18:00.019-04:00

Mimi and You, a one-of-a-kind necklatier, devotes its collection to the remarkable courage of women who have left abusive situations to start life anew. Founded in 2005 by sisters Mitra (lead designer) and Mina Mortazavi (head of sales and marketing), Mimi and You creations have adorned the necklines of Nelly Furtado, Chantal Kreviazuk, and Jully Black.

Mimi and You hosts necklace-making workshops at various Toronto shelters where women can express themselves and their hopes for the future through the creative process. Proceeds from the resulting creations are then donated to Shelternet.ca, Canada's first and only national on-line resource and support network for abused women.

Inspired by the bravery of the women at these workshops, Mimi and You began Celebrate Courage, a monthly event at the exclusive Spoke Club: participants donate $20 and spend an evening crafting original and unique necklaces. Pieces are then sold with proceeds again going to Shelternet.ca.

Vintage Value

2009-06-11T12:27:00.009-04:00

On a quiet stretch of Ossington just north of Queen lies a fabulous collection of well-priced upscale vintage finds. The boutique, I Miss You, has a sophisticated, relaxed feel, reminiscent of the New York vintage spots, where customers are free to browse undisturbed and staff is happy to help when called upon.
On a recent Saturday afternoon visit, a Missoni knit skirt and sweater set was going for a song ($195) and the sparse-in-a-good-way selection of glamorous gowns gave one the feeling of being inside Bette Davis's closet or some other version of an old Hollywood dream. When a girl has a party to attend and can't afford to drop a bomb on a dress, she can head to I Miss You and get gussied up for far less than you'd expect.
63 Ossington Avenue

Treasure Trove

2009-06-09T10:18:00.019-04:00

In summer, city folk love to drive out to the country, breathe some fresh air, bask in nature...and shop at funky eclectic boutiques. What? Yes, the town of Elora, home to the Elora Gorge, and only one hour's drive from Toronto, is teeming with art, culture and fashion-forward flair. Premiere among these chic shopping sites is Pod on Metcalfe Street, a treasure trove of environmentally-friendly, recycled and Canadian-made clothing, accessories and housewares.

Canadiana: get some Yoga Jeans, so-called because they stretch in every direction and still retain their shape. Or Lole athletic and mix-and-match swim wear. Share the love and the clothing with Shared organic cotton tees, sold in a set of two with half the proceeds going to charity! All made in Canada.

Price points are accessible and you get an additional 10% off just by telling the cashier you are a Pod Family Member. You won't be able to drag yourself out of here and once you do, you'll be back again and again.

Lifestyle Luggage

2009-06-08T09:07:00.013-04:00

What is a "mompreneur"? Is it simply a businesswoman that happens to be a mother, too? For Megan Turvolgyi, founder and designer of MagZ-BagZ, it's a conscious decision to change the way she works to accommodate quality time for herself and her family: "Being there for our children rather than in an office day in and day out with only three weeks holiday."

From that desire for a full life came the birth of Magz-Bagz in 2007, lifestyle carriers built to promote self-expression and last through life's many adventures. Made completely in Canada, from design to fabric printing, to cutting and sewing, laminate and outsourcing, Megan ensures every level of employee is treated well and paid a fair wage. She has donated bags to raise money for Sick Kids and is seeking to align herself with a cause that supports raising confident daughters.

"Being a mompreneur is a necessity and a choice...for the future of my children and the children of this world."

Accessories Awareness

2009-06-05T09:13:00.005-04:00

Think fun and responsibility can go hand in hand? Believe high-style should come at a low price? Want to think globally and act locally? Then Foxy Originals are for you! Pieces like the reversible pendants above are designed and manufactured in Toronto using lead-free materials and water sprays rather than toxic solvents. Designers, Jen Kluger and Suzie Orol, have also implemented a recycling program, the first of its kind in North America, and custom-created pieces to raise funds and awareness for Bloorview Kids Rehab and the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, among others. The colourful creations can be found in boutiques across the globe.

Supportive Supper

2009-06-02T13:32:00.006-04:00

Has it been a while since you ate out in style? Finding it hard to justify the expense? Amnesty International may have just the excuse to get out there and enjoy some good food with friends.
Taste for Justice gives you the chance to dine out and have part of the proceeds go toward their campaign to stop violence against women. With one in three women worldwide a victim of violence, it's a worthwhile way to spend an evening. Participating restaurants in Toronto include Rodney's Oyster House, Il Fornello, Queen Mother Cafe, and Southern Accent. Share the love until June 15th.

Mixable Make-up

2009-05-30T14:14:00.007-04:00

With summer upon us, those lucky enough to have a tan may also find their foundation no longer suits the new skin tone. Enter DaLish Cosmetics with a trio of blendable foundations in Marshmallow, Butterscotch and Caramel which can be mixed at home to match any skin colour.

A fan of Bobbi Brown, founder Melanie Cruickshank shares the cosmetics icon's philosophy that make-up should be simple and easily applied in five minutes. All DaLish products are cruelty-free and PETA-approved.

Community Conscience

2009-05-26T20:07:00.018-04:00

On-line communities offer forums for buying and selling used goods, extending the life of the items by preventing their deposit in the landfill, and padding sellers' pockets. The most-visited retail website in Canada, Ebay has launched World of Good, an offshoot site specializing in fair trade and eco-positive merchandise. Everything sold is screened by a trusted third party to ensure it has a positive environmental impact. Buyers can search for goods by indicating the type of impact they'd like to make, be it animal friendly, people positive, or eco-responsible.

Purchasing power

2009-05-23T21:30:00.013-04:00

Summer heat means a break from hiking around in those high heels. Forget the flip flops: this season treat your feet to some breathtaking ballet flats by Do-Ni where 100% of retail profits go to participating non-profit organizations that speak on behalf of the voiceless, be it animals, the environment or children.
These stunning shoes are fair trade, vegan, and handmade from eco-friendly materials like water-based glues, recycled insole boards and low solvent PU leather. Customers can even choose which organization they'd prefer their purchase to support. DoNi means gifts in Italian and also stands for Nancy Dong and Carlotta Fiorini, the designers behind the brand who are sharing their gifts with the world.

Procrastination prescription

2009-05-20T09:41:00.005-04:00

Some of us need a sense of urgency to get moving. Even when it comes to shopping. Enviius offers just that along with exclusivity and deep discounts. On-line sales of up to 70% off retail last only 48 to 72 hours and limited supplies are sold first come first served so buyers have to act fast. Membership is free and referrals result in a $10 credit applied to your account as soon as your friend buys something.

Showcasing premium Canadian designers at sample sale prices, upcoming sales include Project Runway Canada runner-up Jason Meyers and Toronto-based Thien Le. Of-the-moment featured designer, Mirjana Scepanovic, mixes old-world tradition with modern influences like the British punk movement, present-day Manhattan, South America, and of course, Canada. The metallic clutch above was available for $69 at the time of posting...

Love Luxury

2009-05-17T20:44:00.012-04:00

The F-List Designer Series featured Aime Luxury at Pantages Martini Bar on Thursday evening. French for love, Aime (pronounced m), is also a play on designer Monica Mei's initial. Aime aligns itself with the slow fashion movement, an antidote to trendy, throwaway style. Working with sumptuous materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and lyocell (a natural fabric known for its eco-friendly manufacturing techniques), Aime features timeless, luxurious, and comfortable eco-chic pieces built to last.

Aime recently showcased its Fall collection at LG Fashion Week. Feminine and flattering, featuring flirty details like ruffled hems and metallic trim, the pieces celebrate womanhood and appeal to femmes of all ages. (Photo: Angela Granziera)

Timeless totes

2009-05-13T09:46:00.007-04:00

Less is more. If this is your fashion mantra, Jessica Jensen has the handbag for you. A Ryerson graduate who spent six years in fashion marketing before launching her line in 2007, Jensen describes her line as "pure affordable luxury". Timeless, minimalist and sophisticated, these handbags are anything but trifling: investment pieces that exude quality and simplicity. An earthy pallette with white, beeswax, taupe and mud, and design details like the pleats in this Bliss Tote are both current and enduring.

For the woman who knows practicality and luxury can live together, and who values tradition while still maintaining a fresh outlook.

Closet cleaning

2009-05-10T17:57:00.008-04:00

Like Ebay-esque bargains but wish you could try on the merchandise first? Extoggery, an upscale consignment store in Toronto, boasts racks and racks of lightly loved clothing and accessories by every luxury label under the sun. Garments are priced at about 25% of retail--think Stella McCartney jeans for $79.99. A dream come true for the brand hound on a budget, eco-fashion followers will enjoy the intrinsic environmentalism of the enterprise. Consignees receive 45% of the selling price; items that don't sell may be donated to OASIS, a recovery centre helping people with past addictions get back on their feet. Two locations: 1640 Avenue Road and 10 Brentcliffe Road.

Runway's Rachel Carson

2009-05-08T23:48:00.009-04:00

This month American Vogue released its model issue. Of course, we are familiar with the model as muse, but how about the model as activist? Summer Rayne Oakes shows how its done with Style, Naturally, her definitive global guide to eco-friendly fashion. Funny and accessible, the book examines the history of green style, profiles eco-friendly designers, and offers common sense consumer tips.
An environmental scientist and working model, Oakes is a pioneer in her field, participating exclusively in projects she deems environmentally responsible. Her hope is for sustainable fashion to become the norm: "One day we'll wake up and green will not be the new black. It will be the new invisible." And, yes, that is her real name.

Spring Sample Sales

2009-05-06T19:51:00.009-04:00

Champagne chic on a beer budget: Reia Studio, a Toronto boutique fashion agency, is holding its semi-annual sale. Luxury labels like Stella McCartney, Dries Van Noten, Miu Miu, Barbara Bui, YSL, Chloe, Lanvin, Alexander McQueen, and Michael Kors are all available at 70% off or more. Until Friday at 555 Richmond St. W., Suite 706.

The Toronto chapter of Fashion Group International, a global non-profit promoting the fashion and beauty industries, starts its sale this Friday at 11 am with an exclusive shop: FGI, Toronto Fashion Incubator and F-list members enjoy VIP treatment until 2 pm when doors open to the general public. Deeply discounted designers include Wayne Clark, Izzy Camilleri and Farley Chatto. Until Sunday at 171 East Liberty St., Suite 315.

Eco with an urban edge

2009-05-04T13:59:00.054-04:00

Edgy and unapologetically urban, Thieves comes across as cooler than the average eco-conscious clothing line.
Designer and founder Sonja den Elzen constructs her creations with earth-friendly elements such as hemp, tussah or "wild" silk (which allows the silkworm to live), organic wool and cotton, lyocell, bamboo, and soy. She avoids the sweatshop aspect by producing all pieces locally in Toronto.
Rather than seeing sustainability as a limitation, the designer draws inspiration from the natural world employing earthy creams, charcoals and greys, and printing the fabrics with graphics reminiscent of Native American art.
Breezy and cool while maintaining some serious glamour, there is a continuity to the collection that seems to tell a story. Experience Thieves at 1156 Queen Street West in Toronto.

Sensible style

2009-04-30T21:05:00.016-04:00

During a recession, women rely on accessories to freshen and re-imagine looks already in their closets. Rather then splash out on a new evening gown, the wallet-savvy woman might cinch her waist with a new belt, add some earrings, or fasten something fetching: like this flapper-inspired flower by daradotdesigns. Fashioned from leather and vintage buttons, these blooms can decorate any outfit as a brooch, be worn as a headpiece, or attach to a hairband. That's three looks for the price of one. Talk about mileage!

Project Runway Canada: Brian Bailey

2009-04-28T22:23:00.012-04:00

The designer mentor showed us on Saturday he knows how to design for real women.

Simplicity reigned with shorter pant lengths, and tops and dresses that wrapped the models up in big bows like birthday presents. Nary a belt in sight.

Besides the zippered, 80s-inspired bubble dresses, trends were avoided in favour of unbelted sheaths and lines that skimmed the models curves rather than hugged them.

Perhaps for the woman who knows who she is already and has past the experimental phase.

Project Runway Canada: Sunny Fong

2009-04-28T22:19:00.014-04:00

Competition winner Fong's opening look on Saturday was reminiscent of Nada's fall showcase at Fashion Week. Black leather leggings and tons of fabric and fur: feminine, but aggressively so.

A gunmetal dress showing ample leg covered up the arms with billowy sleeves and encrusted the collar with a jewelled necklace to keep eyes where they belong. Whimsically paired with fur-covered shooties.

A gold-accented drop waist dress resembled a fancified version of one showcased by Aime Luxury at Fashion Week. The harem girl look was paired with sexy strappy sandals.

On trend with animal-print belted minidress.

With this gorgeous and ambitious collection, Fong proves he deserves the crown, although a knee-length fur skirt seemed a little heavy, even for Fall.

Project Runway Canada: Jason Meyers

2009-04-28T22:16:00.023-04:00

Meyers collection at the Elle Show on Saturday was sexy, boudoir, and 80s-inspired.

Bubble skirts abounded and Madonna-esque Like A Virgin-era black lace leggings paired with black shiny pumps.

High hair and a good dose of gold sequins pumped up all the black.

Form-fitting, body-conscious and sleek looks reminded us of Robert Palmer's "Addicted to Love" video.

A standout was this black ruffle blouse with gold sequined skinny pants. Wow. The simple power of black and gold is divine.

For the younger woman with the body and edge to rock these punked out baby doll looks.

Project Runway Canada: Jessica Biffi

2009-04-28T21:58:00.015-04:00

Biffi's sophisticated curve-hugging Fall collection ran the gamut from old-world elegance to dangerously leg-baring short shorts and dresses.

On trend with hits of metallic and fur, black and gold dominated this collection.

Standout was a flowing floor-length gauzy gown, empire-waisted, cleavage-revealing and unaccompanied by accessories. A combination of animal prints--zebra, leopard spots and some pink flamingo--the look was ethereal and breathtaking.

Revealing gold minidress exposing legs, breasts and arms all at once left little to the imagination. An almost floor-length version of the same served a little more practical.