Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Vintage Therapy

Vintage Mix 1
186 Ossington Avenue
416.534.7767


“What goes around comes around” and this is why we stop in at Vintage Mix 1 for a retail fix that doesn’t hurt our wallets. Everything always comes back in style and vintage shopping is the best way for you to pick up quality pieces at half the price of retail. It may require a bit of searching but the rewards are huge. Our latest find was a great pair of brown leather Bally boots that cost less than lunch! When venturing into the wonderful world of vintage make sure to keep your eye on the prize; look out for colours that work on you, fabulous materials that will last forever and classic cuts. Remember, a deal is only a deal if you wear it.
Vintage Mix 1 also has a great selection of accessories. Don’t miss the display at the checkout and the scarves in the back. Vintage + a great tailor = a match made in heaven. Don’t leave it behind because it is too big in the waist or the sleeves are too big (we sure didn’t). We just couldn’t leave that gorgeous dusty rose dress behind. Ahhh…all in a days work.

S & E

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Jonathan & Olivia



Jonathan & Olivia

49 Ossington Ave

416. 849. 5956



We love new things. Whether it is a new pair of shoes or a toothbrush, we can't wait to get them home and rip them out of their packaging. So when we heard that there was a new boutique in the neighborhood we had to check it out. We were not disappointed. We were greeted by a fantastic salesperson and an even more fantastic red A.P.C. cape. It is very Paris meets Toronto, with names like Vanessa Bruno, Helmut Lang and Isabel Marant all canoodling on the same racks. And although you can now find these names in select locations in Toronto, no where have we seen the pieces bought as well as they have been at Jonathan and Olivia. The selection of jeans is not massive, but again looks hand picked, and the selection does not dissapoint.
The shop would satisfy quite a few different style personalities. With the dominant personality being elegant, classics and romantics could also find great staples here. The prices are by no means inexpensive; however you pay for what you get. And in this case it is original and well made pieces. The boys section was just as fabulous. The best of Earnest Sewn's men's jeans were laid out before us and beautiful jackets were hung as far as the eye could see. Our overall impression was that someone had taken the time to sort through all the collections and picked out the best of the best for us to browse through.

So, thank you for valuing our time and recognizing our fantastic taste.


S&E

Friday, November 14, 2008

"Everyone needs a Shag"




Green Shag
670 Queen Street West
416.360.SHAG


“A good Shag will always get you noticed” Green Shag Bespoke Clothiers is fresh and modern tailoring for a hipper crowd. Originally hailing for B.C, they have recently set up shop right here in our own backyard (yaye us!)

Dapper hipsters (think Brandon Flowers) and Bay street boys alike will find items here to write home about.

Specializing in custom made shirts, they have managed to bring their own special brand of tailoring to the modern masses. A broad selection of fabrics to satisfy any taste are chosen individually for each piece of your bespoke shirt. Have a test coming up? Can’t keep track of your witty pick up lines? No problem, Green Shag allows you to screen-print cheat sheets on the inside of cuffs and collars. To top it all off, their cufflinks are the best in the city. Who needs Gucci when you can wear “do not eat chips” cufflinks?
They also have an impressive selection of “Shag Wear” which includes clever ready-to-wear t-shirts, money clips, stylish pocket squares and modish cravats. (with Velcro!) for a modern and convenient twist.

The staff is fantastic; accommodating, friendly, and fun. We also received word that men's shirts for women are in the works. We can't wait! I already have my first design planned out -lyrics to Midnight Train in my cuffs for those impromptu karaoke sessions

This place pleases all style personalities and overall makes us very, very happy
S&E


Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Personality Styles- the best way to uncover your signature style

Now some of you may be wondering what I mean when I use the term “Personality Style”.

In Image Consulting, we discuss the idea of one’s signature/ideal style-the image they would like to portray to the world.

Many people have not settled on a signature style. Take a peak in their closet and it can appear quite schizophrenic- argyle vest, authentic Peruvian poncho, pleather snakeskin hot pants (p.s if your wardrobe looks like this please call me so I can whisk you off to my wardrobe rehab facility)

To strike bullseye on the style that fits you best, we must first investigate the realm of your personality, and what would jive best for you. For example, if you feel like a Betty Paige Rockabilly on the inside, settling on a casual and boyish Annie Hall-type style would feel unnatural--and when you feel uncomfortable, or “off” it shines right through to the surface, and people notice.

So let’s take a look at the official 7 types of personality style. Please bare in mind that some of this can sound like it is straight out of a Colour Me Beautiful handbook, because it is:) All joking aside, you may find yourself fitting into one of these categories, or a combination of a few. Once we narrow down your personality style, we will be that much closer to discovering your signature style.


The 7 types of personality styles

1. Classic: Conservative and Businesslike
Also called traditional. It equals elegance and refinement. The look is timeless but does not particularly show the latest trend. The Classic personality is controlled, organized, practical and not spontaneous; she brings calm and cool sophistication to any business or social gathering. She projects an image of responsibility, respect and authority. The overall appearance is grown-up chic, balance, symmetry, proportion and harmony. Tailored looks, not manly suits, matte fabrics. Quality is key: more money for fewer clothes. The idea of investing in a wardrobe.


Easily recognizable elements:

  • A business-like image, always polished, neat and tidy; conservative with tailored lines, structured fabrics and shapes, in neutral and dark colors without a any “flash” or bold details. (Think suits, straight trousers and blouses, skirts and classic shoes with no embellishments).
  • Brands that exemplify Traditional are: Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Jones of New York, Esprit, J Crew. (some)

2.Creative: Original and Artistic
Also whimsical or free-spirited. Her personality is usually energetic, vivacious and dynamic; definitely people oriented. Asymmetrical cuts and shapes are preferred. Contrasts that make a statement and are innovative. They are avant-garde with their clothes and accessories. They may wear antique, ethnic, oversized, deconstructed, or hand-crafted garments or items. Mixing and matching as well as layering are their game and form of expression. They prefer color, patterns and textures. Clothing is seen as art. Expect the unexpected and one-of-a-kind looks.

Easily recognizable elements :

  • Mixing of anything and everything, unpredictable or unique combination of fabrics, textures and styles. Garments can be layered, very colorful, and silhouette isn’t a focus but often a result of the combination of pieces. Outfits often will have “themes”. All patterns, textures, and colors are used in a creative’s wardrobe; no limits or restrictions.
  • Brands that exemplify Creative Style are: Betsy Johnson, Anthropologie, Agnes B, Issey Miyake, Nicole Miller, Jean Paul Gautier

3.Sporty: friendly and casual
Also natural. Wears comfortable clothes, which are less tailored and less structured. They prefer informal-wear rather than “dressing-up”, which tends to be a challenge. When it comes to business environments, her choices are less confident and she tends to go for the “off the mannequin” suit, which may or may not fit her or her style. She prefers combinations that require very little “thought” behind their composition and care, so dry-cleaning only garments are the least in number in their closet. The underlying theme is simplicity and functionality. Cotton T-shirts, shorts, capris, denim and jean are the popular choices in this wardrobe.

Easily recognizable elements of the Sporty Style (not to be confused with athletic wear) are:

  • All American look with functionality, semi-structured characteristics in neutral (not striking or overly-bold) colors and patterns in natural fabrics.
  • Brands that exemplify sporty are: Polo, J Crew, Gap, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Old Navy, Timberland, American Eagle Outfitters, Levis, Kate Spade, Lacoste

4.Romantic: Soft and feminine
The feminine woman is soft, dainty and ladylike. She is the girl-next-door with a soft, demure look. There is a fresh, approachable quality to this style personality. It is non-threatening but rather inviting to others. Use of lace, ruffles are not uncommon; She prefers appliqués and embroidery, dresses, bows, soft flowing skirts, lightweight, delicate fabrics, eyelet, soft cottons. The patterns are small: florals, animal motifs, polka dots, paisleys. The accessories are delicate such as pearls, cameos, floral pins, lockets, heart-shaped jewelry. The make-up is simple and natural as is her overall appearance.

Easily recognizable elements:

  • Loose hourglass silhouettes with modesty but still acknowledging the feminine shape, lengths are longer, colors are softer and pastel, light neutrals. Fabrics are soft and touchable, lightweight or cozy and patterns are floral, paisley, dots or can even have a “wallpaper feel to them.”
  • Brands that exemplify Feminine Style are: Eileen Fisher, Anthropologie, Robert Rodriguez, , Ella Moss, Free People, Betsy Johnson ,Nanette Lapore, Blumarine.

5.Dramatic: Fashionable and Sophisticated
The dramatic woman is sophisticated, chic, assertive and confident. The styles are her own, very striking, flamboyant, head-turning ensembles. A variety of fabrics and combinations of textures are comfortably used by the dramatic woman. Bold patterns, strong geometrics, irregular shapes and unusual combinations, metallic’s, leathers and accessories are all used sometimes in combination. The makeup can be very angular, accentuating cheekbones or eyelids or lips showing the sculptural qualities of the woman. The degree of drama scopes from the trendy to more creative. The common denominators are: high-fashion and chic looks, runway styles.

Easily recognizable elements:

  • Non-classic style but with some structured shape, exaggerated lines and silhouettes, colors are the darkest darks and lightest lights, saturated color with high-contrast combinations (black and white). Garments are often large scaled and make “statements.”
  • Brands that exemplify Dramatic Style are: Karl Lagerfeld, Donna Karan, Christian Dior, YSL, BCBG Maxazria, Prada, Missoni

6. Alluring: Sexy and Glamorous
She’s sexy, charming, enchanting with magnetic personality. She’s very instinctive. She gives attention to all of the senses: elements of touch, smell, taste, an especially the visual appeal. She’s proud of her body and wears clothes that reflect that attitude. Revealing lines defined waistline, cuts that are not boxy or square, plunging necklines or off the shoulders garments. Floral scents, fluid fabrics, richer materials. Velvets and suede’s, silks and chiffons. There is certainly a feeling of exuberance that emanates from this style that is enticing and glamorous.

Easily recognizable elements:

  • Fitted, body-conscious fabrics that make the figure obvious, hourglass silhouette with little or no detailing; colors are vibrant and rich and fabrics are stretchy/knit and can range from leather to silk.
  • Brands that exemplify Alluring Style are: Bebe, Versace, BCBG, Guess, Kenneth Cole, Diane von

7.ELEGANT: Refined and Stately
With an Elegant style, you are communicating an air of confidence, flawlessness, timelessness, distinguished, grace and are always polished, restrained and dignified. Those who fall into this category are often times in high-profile, public positions (PR, politics, etc.). There is an element of formality and prestige to this sense of style.

Easily recognizable elements:

  • Suits are a definite key element and clothing is simple and exceptionally-made. Garments are elongated gently showing the female form with slight definition to the body
  • Colors are monochromatic or “tone-on-tone” and fabrics are lightweight natural, expensive
  • Brands that exemplify Elegant style are: Ann Klein, Donna Karen, St. John, Valentino, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Chanel


    Do You Identify with any of these descriptions? Maybe the clothing brands/designers listed were a better indication of your preferences.

    In the next few weeks we will get into more detailed information on creating a signature style. We also find it helpful in our Chic Seeking around the city to list the personality styles of the stores we visit.

    So take a good hard look in your closet, and seek out the pieces that just aren’t you. Have a moment alone to say goodbye….then discard!

    Until next time, keep fit and have fun!

    xoxo E


    P.S Uggs and Sweatpants are not a style personality.

Charlie Boutique

Charlie Boutique 809 Queen Street West 647.436.8452

Ah, Charlie. An appropriate pick for our first blog entry. This store has been a repeat offender on our credit cards, and you can still faintly see the outline of my face pressed against the front glass from last week. (I saw sparkles!) We love it. Obvi.

Not only do we receive consistently fabulous customer service from this store, we also love their broad selection of styles. Lily and Jae, Blank NYC, Adrienne Butikofer, Dace, and Allison Wonderland are just a few of the whimsical designers carried here. While it isn't a store that we shop in for basics, it has become a go to store for accent and one of a kind type pieces. Their little dresses are absolutely divine, and really reasonably priced too. Whether your personality style is romantic, casual or elegant, there is something for everyone. Don't forget to check out the accessories! Their display cases are brimming with interesting and unique treasures that compliment their playful dresses and classic staples. They recently started to carry an AMAZING line of affordable hair bands and cocktail hats called Ophelie Hats featuring feathers and unusual fabrics. If you like to be the the life of the the party, these are for you.

And now for my shameless plug….come visit me at my headwear accessory store on Etsy:
http://cocoboudoir.etsy.com







Monday, November 10, 2008

Welcome to Chic Seeker






Bonjour! Welcome to our first blog entry on Chic Seeker.

Let me start off by introducing ourselves. We are Erin and Suzanne, Two Image and Style Consultants in Toronto. We are obsessed with everything Fashion, just like you! We wanted to create a fashion- focused blog for Toronto, that also doubles as a guide to help navigate our readers to the most fabulous of T.O’s abundant offerings.

Our goal is to hit up every boutique and big box in our fair city and break it down for you -Erin and Suzanne style.


We will be implementing a 5 star (or 5 Christian Louboutin heels) rating system that incorporates collection, quality, service, convenience, price, and overall satisfaction with the store. We hope that you will find it informative.....or at least entertaining!


Please feel free to email us with your favorite store suggestions, hidden gems in the city, great sales and all of that fun stuff. We would love to hear from you!

xoxo E&S

If you are interested in our image consulting services, please visit our website http://www.giftshopgirls.com