TheStyleSpy.com

Get Nailed!

Roya DelSol — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:54 +0000

After creator Kristen Wood experienced success with her line of Ten Spot Beauty Bars in Toronto, a nail polish brand seemed like the natural next step – and so Get Nailed Lacquer was born. This new Canadian nail art brand consists of lacquers and microbeads – all with cheeky names such as “Don’t tell your friends,” I don’t even know ur name!” and “Staying for breakfast?” that are sure to make you blush. This 4Free (no harmful chemicals) and animal-testing free line of polishes also sells DIY “N’art” (Nail Art) kits consisting of microbeads, lacquer and other fun extras to create your own unique nail designs.

Clockwise, top left
Gone Gold Diggin’ Microbeads
Watch the Hair!
How Do You Take Ur Coffee?
You Live With Your Mom?! Microbeads
Yep, That’s Impressive
Your Cab is Here

All polishes $12 CAD and Microbeads $6 CAD

One Maxi Dress Three Ways

Tessa MacCormac — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:09 +0000

A maxi dress is probably the most versatile item you can own. It can be dressed up, dressed down, worn on its own or layered up. This ever so comfortable frock can be worn almost anywhere! Here’s how I would take this staple, black maxi from the beach, to lunch, to a night out.

A Day at the Beach
I would keep this beach ensemb fairly simple and comfortable. Opt for some beach approved sandals, a couple of bohemian wrist candies and a minted tote to carry sunscreen and towels.

1. Dress, $29.95 CAD, H&M
2. Boardwalk Tote, $57.50 CAD, J Crew
3. Sandals, $29.95 CAD, H&M
4. Rumore, $25 CAD, Aldo

Lunch with the Girls
This maxi can easily be taken to lunch. I would wear this with a fairly comfortable wedge heel to add the perfect touch of sophistication. I would also toss in some wrist bling, a delicate necklace and a pretty pastel tote.

1. Michael Kors Rose Golden Chronograph Watch, Approx $252.02 CAD
2. Crosier, $90 CAD, Aldo
3. Gorjana Taner Shimmer Necklace, $54.80 CAD
4. Oversized Bowler, $70.58 CAD, ASOS

Take Me Out!
A bright splash of colour is exactly what is going to take this dress from day to night. Keep things simple with a neon strappy heel, matching clutch and some serious wrist sparkle.

1. Carvela Giant Neon Strappy Sandals, $169.39 CAD, ASOS
2. Classic Pave Link Bracelet, $138 CAD, J Crew
3. Rhinestone Spike Bracelet, $12.80 CAD, Forever 21
4. Metal Bar Detail Envelope Clutch, $31.76 CAD, ASOS

Spring Colours: I Dream of Cream

Tessa MacCormac — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 +0000

I know we talk lots about the importance of colour in warmer months and how your outfits are nothing without the ‘perfect pop of colour’, however, I don’t think we can forget about the oh so important neutrals. Cream is huge this spring/summer (even though I don’t think it ever left). Cream pieces are so fresh and clean and perfect for warmer days. These are some cream-toned pieces that are catching my eye lately, I can just picture myself on any of these pieces, sitting on a patio sipping some pinot gris.

1. Studio Top Combined, $119 CAD, Zara
2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Celia Silk and Linen-Blend Playsuit, $145.14 CAD
3. Women’s Smocked Charmeuse Top, Approx $11.07 CAD, Old Navy
4. Essie Topless and Barefoot, $9.75 CAD
5. Patent Colourblocked Pumps, $33.80 CAD, Forever 21
6. Women’s Tiered-Crochet Rosette Fedoras, Approx $13.04 CAD, Old Navy

Inspiration from Marie Claire

Meagan Hall — Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:55 +0000

I overloaded on magazines for the plane ride on my trip to Mexico last week. Marie Claire is always one of my faves and how could I resist learning more about the adorable cover girl, Zoey Deschanel? Check out what’s inspiring me this month.

Play with prints in a whole new way this spring with a fun pair of printed shades. Opt for a cheaper version of this trendy look and stick to designer shades for more classic styles.

Street style inspiration from my favourite city. Floral pants, chambray shirts, and the “it” colour tangerine are all on London’s radar. P.S. Can you spot style icon Alexa Chung?

This frugalista loves emulating designer looks for an affordable price. Plus, I am always looking for inspiration to style my peplum shirt.

If it wasn’t for those signature blue eyes, I would have hardly recognized Zoey Deschanel in her feature spread. I love her sweet style on New Girl, but it’s nice to see her all glammed up for a change.

Bathing Suit Blitz

Melissa Chai — Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:25 +0000

We’re excited to hit the beach in our bikini best! So let’s find the best style for each different body type. I have found a few of my very favourites that fit all body shapes and sizes, because let’s face it, we’re all unique!

The Apple
Try a bathing suit which supports your upper body, such as thicker straps or an underwire. Try to blend in some patterns or texture to your bottoms, and pair it with a darker top!

Left – Ricrac Dotted Push Up Bikini Top,$34.95 CAD and Dotted Fold-over Waist Bikini Bottom, $29.95 CAD, La Vie En Rose
Right – Retro Poppy Bikini, Approx $78 CAD, Anthropologie

The Boyish Figure
Make sure you play around with details such as ruffles! Something with a thicker straps or a 1950s style will look like you have more curves!

Left – Bikini Top, $17.95 CAD and Mini Tanga Bottoms, $14.95 CAD, H&M
Right - Star Scattered Bikini, Approx $68 CAD, Anthropologie

The Full-Figured Lady
Don’t be afraid to try a one-piece, because they are super sexy too! Try a v-neck or something that flatters your bust. Stay with something basic without too many details or patterns.

Left – Cannes Maillot, Approx $148 CAD, Anthropologie
Right – Gathers One Piece, $59.95 CAD, La Vie En Rose

The Hourglass
Try a string bikini and don’t be afraid! Wearing ties at the bottom make your legs look longer and your hips look slimmer! Try bold, solid colours!

Top – Triangle Bra, $12.95 CAD, Tie Tanga Bottom, $5.95, H&M
Bottom – Mix and Match String Bikini and Bottom, $17.94 CAD, Old Navy

The Pear
Remember to mix and match! String bikini bottoms can make your hips look smaller. Try darker coloured bottoms, and feel free to play around with lighter colours and patterns on top so the attention is focused on your upper half. Bandeaus can create an illusion of a larger chest which works to your advantage!

Top – L-Space Adia Bandeau Top Multi, $115 CAD, Metallic Crochet String Bikini, $17.94 CAD, Old Navy
Bottom – Bandeau, $17.94 CAD, Old Navy, Tanga Bottoms, $5.95 CAD, H&M

You’re Invited

Caitlyn McCartney — Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:20 +0000

Summer is right around the corner which means so is wedding season. It’s about time you start thinking about your wedding guest wardrobe once you’ve RSVP’d to all those pretty, little invites. Just because you’re not the bride doesn’t mean you should blend in. Here are this years wedding guest fashion trends to say ‘I do’ to; Pastels, bright colour, romantic, florals and prints. One shoulder options are also great, they’re easier to wear than strapless.

Pastels: Dresses in soft tones are great for outdoor and daytime weddings. Tie your hair up with an elegant bun and rose gold accessories. Pastel Python Dress, $158 CAD, French Connection.

Romantic: Hopeless romantics are suckers for any dress with girlie embellishments such as ruffles and lace. Pins and Needles Backless Lace Dress, Approx $69 CAD, Urban Outfitters.

Prints, prints and more prints: Digital, ethnic, animal, or conversational, all prints are welcome and you’ll be sure to stand out in a crowd. Flower Print Dress, $99.90 CAD, Zara.

Florals: No explanation needed. You cannot go wrong with florals in the summer. Sequinned Tunic Dress, $99.90 CAD, Zara.

Pops of Colour: Popping brights were hot on the runways and now its even hotter for a summer wedding celebration. TOPSHOP Floral Mesh Back Maxi Dress, $84 CAD, The Bay.

Sealed With a Kiss

Roya DelSol — Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:57 +0000

From Marilyn Monroe to Gwen Stefani, iconic women have taken to the red lip and created a signature look for themselves. Red lipstick is awesome for a variety of reasons – it’s bold, daring, creates instant glamour and flatters a variety of skin tones. Finding the perfect red can be tricky, which is why we’re here to do the legwork for you. Here are our three favorite classic reds, at price points that will fit everyone’s budget.

MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Russian Red, $17.50 CAD
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl, Approx $24 CAD, Sephora
Revlon Matte Lipstick in Really Red, $8.99 CAD, Shopper’s Drug Mart

Hello Sunshine

Meagan Hall — Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:48 +0000

Yellow is probably the happiest colour there is; the colour of sunny days, flowers, and citrus fruits. There are many different shades of yellow popping up on the fashion radar lately, from golden bright to soft pastels to neon chartreuse. Pair your preferred shade of yellow with white for a crisp warm weather look or go for a brighter hue, like coral or cobalt blue, for a total burst of optimism. Pick a statement piece to brighten up your outfit or dress head-to-toe in my favourite hue this spring.

1969 Skimmer Legging Jeans, $69.95 CAD, The Gap

BCBGeneration Cutout-Pocket Short, Approx $78 CAD

Bandeau Bra, $5.95 CAD, H&M
Bikini Briefs, $5.95 CAD, H&M
Folino, $35 CAD, Spring

TOPSHOP V Front Dress, $84 CAD, The Bay
Clutch with Clasp Frame, $79.90 CAD, Zara

A West 49 Summer Down by the Water

Caitlyn McCartney — Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:48 +0000

Back in my “very fashionable” elementary school years, all my friends and I wore Roxy skate shoes, flared denim and coloured hoodies. Mine was purple, either from Russell or West 49. Being from Campbell River, it was a huge treat when we got to drive down island to Nanaimo to go shopping at West 49. Since growing out of my skater girl/ Avril Lavigne stage, I haven’t stopped into a West 49 for ages – until, I was invited this past week to checkout West 49’s new summer collection at their Metrotown location. They had a ton of great, effortless beach and festival wear, which we’re all obsessed with for summer. Here are my top picks of summer essentials.

Graphic Tees (clockwise from top left) Billabong Black Tank $37 CAD, Element Owl Tee $30 CAD, Billabong Dreamcatcher Tee $27 CAD, Element $30 CAD.

Floral Printed Denim Cut-offs by Billabong, $50 CAD. The ditzy daisy print gives a whole new meaning to daisy dukes. These were so cute I ended up bringing them home with me.

Element Carry-all, $58 CAD. Great carry-all shoulder bag for your beach gear!

2 in 1! Wear this cute, striped Billabong piece ($48 CAD) as a maxi skirt or dress.

Colourful accessories. Billabong Floral Wallet, $32 CAD and West 49 Coral Straw Fedora, $25 CAD.

Fun Nixon watches in all sorts of great colours. Approx $225 CAD.

Vancouver: Gaya Handbag Sale

Erica Lam — Sun, 13 May 2012 08:00:04 +0000

11 Styles of Gaya Bags for Sale (Spring 2012 & Fall 2011 Collection)
Priced from $65-$95, regularly $150-$320.
Tuesday, May 15 & Wednesday, May 16, 11:30am-4:30pm
Style Lounge, 119 West Pender, #116
Cash or visa only