Do you ever find yourself at your wit’s end trying to come up with a different outfit for work every day? For those of you who hate to shop, or don’t have the means to do so as much as you’d like, you need to replace the mismatched clutter in your closet with wardrobe capsules. As our image consultant Kimberly Law explains, all you need is six basic pieces to get a capsule started and this combination alone will save you an incredible amount of time and money while giving you more versatility with fewer pieces of clothing. Click on the video above to find out more!

To learn more about Kimberly Law, click here.

Everyone’s always rushing about these days, so the world of fashion and beauty has evolved to meet the needs of the modern woman. If you flip on a fashion makeover show like What Not To Wear, you’ll always see Stacy and Clinton showing fashion train wrecks how to buy clothing pieces that can be quickly modified to transform a daytime look into an evening one.

Makeup is just as versatile these days. Without having to remove all of the makeup that Sherri Hubner applied on our model last week, she is very easily able to do a couple of specific touch-ups that quickly turn a sophisticated daytime look into a glamorous evening one.

As Sherri explains, the use of metallics/shimmers isn’t reserved for the teens and 20 somethings. Anyone can look great using them at any age. The key is to know what shades to use, how to use them, and in what amounts.

For more info on the products used, visit www.bobbibrown.com or drop by their cosmetics counter at Holt Renfrew.

You don’t have to be in your 20′s to be able to pull off a metallic eye shadow. As Sherri Hubner from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics demonstrates, it’s all in the shades you choose and how you apply them. Whether you’re 20 or just shy of 50 these suggestions and techniques will help you look your best.

For more information on the products used, visit www.bobbibrown.com or drop by their cosmetics counter at Holt Renfrew.

Next week, we’ll show you how to take that day look and apply a couple of simple techniques to transform it into an evening look!

David Beckham isn’t the only one making waves with his recent move to North America. His famous wife is creating quite a stir as well…or rather, her hair is.

With three or four requests per stylist per day, the Posh Spice bob, now affectionately dubbed the ‘Pob,’ is very quickly becoming the ‘it’ do of the season. And the beauty is that this haircut can be modified to suit any face shape or skin tone. If you put your precious locks in the hands of a trained professional like Ian Daburn and his team of stylists and technicians, you can be sure to leave with a big smile on your face (our model Laurell did!).

Contrary to what you might believe, you don’t need Victoria Beckham‘s diamond-shaped face or olive complexion to pull off this look. For instance, if you have a particularly square or round face (these two are usually in the same category), Ian would add more layers in the front and create an elongated shape. By doing so, he can lengthen your face and enhance more of your facial features.

If you’re Asian, you know blonde is not a suitable match. What Ian would suggest is that you avoid going too bright because your hair won’t lift the same way. If you have darker skin, warmer tones would make ideal choices and again, you should avoid those big bright splashes of blonde that are more suitable for someone like Laurell.

For those of you that have had long hair all your life, cutting it off is understandably an alarming thought, but as you can see from the video, the Pob doesn’t have to be super short. Why not experiment a little? The transformation can be amazing when you try something new and exciting. And don’t worry. If Ian doesn’t think a particular look or colour suits you, he’ll be sure to tell you and help you make the right decisions. What sets a good stylist apart from a mediocre one is their experience and their ability to communicate with a client.

They also take care of the little details at i.daburn salons. While you’re in to get your celebrity makeover, you’ll also be treated like one. When you arrive, you’ll change into a robe that they provide for you so that you don’t get those annoying little hairs all over your clothes (I don’t know about you, but I think that’s a brilliant idea). While you wait for your colour to set, you can also sit back and enjoy a complimentary latte or cappuccino. Visit them at 1073 Cambie Street, Vancouver for an experience.

Since we’re on the topic of Posh, you may or may not know that the Spice Girls are getting set for a reunion tour this Winter. Talk about a blast from the past! For Vancouverites, this means a concert on December 2nd, 2007. For full listings, visit www.thespicegirls.com.

If you want one year of prosperity, plant corn.
If you want ten years of prosperity, plant trees.
If you want one hundred years of prosperity, educate people.
~ Chinese proverb

It’s so uplifting to see the masses becoming more and more aware of the climate issue that’s plaguing our world today. The sure-fire sign that the message is getting through is the fact that its effects are very quickly trickling down to businesses and how they now choose to operate.

Organic products have always seemed a tad on the expensive side for me. Financial circumstances have always impeded my ability to purchase more of them but I can see that it’s getting easier and easier. Organic fabrics were never really that readily available but when major retail chains like Cotton Ginny decide to switch to Eco-Ganic lines, suddenly affordability is no longer so much of a concern.

I bought my first organic CG hoodie when I attended EPIC: The Sustainable Living Expo back in April and it was then that I was also introduced to a really interesting new sustainable material that they were using in some of their items: Milk! I got a scarf that was made of 80% organic cotton and 30% protein from a milk source. Bizarre but true!

Now you can add organic denim to your list of must-have items. The feel and look of organic denim is indiscernible from your average denim. Now that it’s just as (or more so in this case) affordable, why would you opt to buy the more environmental harmful variety? What’s the difference you ask? How is this new material more environmentally friendly? Well, essentially, the cotton comes from the same plant. The important different lies in how that plant is maintained. With organic cotton, the plants thrive without the presence of any pesticides or other environmentally damaging products and methods. That’s why it’s important to support this type of product. Demand will inevitably lead to a larger supply, which in turn lowers cost so you gotta switch! Both the certified organic jean and jacket from CG will retail from $55 and $60 (plus).

Here’s a start! Spread the word about organic fabrics by sporting this funky denim bag from Cotton Ginny.

It’s made of the very same material that is featured on their new denim line: 98% organic cotton and 2% lycra. For your chance to win this bag, email me with the correct answer to the following question:

What’s the difference between denim and organic denim?

You’ve got until September 9th to submit your entry so email me today! And don’t forget to include your full name, address, and contact number.

In case you’re wondering, I have no affiliations with any of the companies from which all my prizes come. I’m never compensated for promoting anything on this site. The reason why I offer them to you guys is because I get them in the mail and I love to give away stuff, so just enjoy!

The competitive nature of the fashion industry makes it incredibly difficult for a graduate in the field to catch a break, which is why an award like this is so important.

Worth over $10,000, the Graduate Award is designed to give a grad all they need to launch their fashion line, including one year at Portobello West Fashion and Art Market, a website, a professional photo shoot by Alfonso Arnold of Blue Lava Studios, PR support by GTWO-PR and a membership and starter kit of eco-friendly fabrics from SYKA Textiles.

One of these four finalists will be named the winner this Sunday, August 26th at Portobello West as the popular fashion and art market celebrates its first anniversary. If you’re coming up to a graduation yourself, you need to go to the event this weekend at the Rocky Mountaineer Station and find out how you can qualify for their next Graduate Award:

Shaina Webb Designs
Designer: Shaina Webb
Fashion School: The Art Institute of Vancouver
Description of Line: Unique garments drawing on inspirations from the past for a progressive future

Ora Designs
Designer: Randi Obenauer
Fashion School: Helen LeFeaux School of Fashion Design
Description of Line: Innovative, hand crafted leather bags produced from leather scraps from a local furniture manufacturer

Freja Designs
Designer: Anita Heiberg
Fashion School: Kwantlen College
Description of Line: Inspired by the 1920s, 30s and 40s with Scandinavian simplicity. The line uses menswear fabrics and leather in soft feminine silhouettes to make an impactful contradiction of styles

Bad Apple Fashions
Designer Names: Carmen Merkel and Michelle Jerome
Fashion School: Kwantlen College
Description of Line: A visually enticing line, full of rich colours and texture. Additional texture is added through geometric or nature inspired prints as trim or appliqués

Unlike traditional farmers’ markets that sell grandma’s homemade jam, Portobello West is modelled after London artisan markets (namely Spitalfields and Camden) and aims to bring the local designers directly to the end consumer. Held the last Sunday of every month, Portobello West showcases the hottest local designers and artisans. Exhibits range from top names to new talents: there are dress makers, handbag designers, jewellers and boutiques that make fashion accessible – particularly Vancouver designers. It’s also a great place to find a distinctive piece for the home. With up to 100 designers on show, any fashionista can find something to suit their unique style.

Side Note: For this shoot, I discovered a new location that would benefit all you photographers out there! Studio 304 is a photography rental studio on Granville Street, minutes from equipment rental houses like Leo’s, labs and public transit. It’s open 7 days a week for half day and full day rentals. The 900 square foot space (23.5 W x 39 L with 12 ft ceilings) is designed specifically for photography, but it is also suitable for small-scale video and film shoots.

Ok, there aren’t a heck of a lot of things that both parent and child can enjoy equally, but this is one of those rare exceptions. Bryan Shelton was kind enough to take me on a tour of the Rolling O Lab yesterday and I have to admit, it was pretty darn cool. Check out the video for an in-depth look at the science behind eye protection and if you are on holiday, round up the kids and head down to the Telus World of Science for a free tour through the 40-foot motor coach (which is parked to the right of the building). Bryan is a fantastic tour guide and will only be in Vancouver for one more day from 10 AM to 4 PM. After today, the O lab will be rolling outta town and heading back to the Oakley headquarters down in OC, California.

Technology presentations inside the Rolling O Lab include the use of optical laser scope equipment that demonstrates clarity and prism shift, ultraviolet emitters and measuring devices to illustrate UV protection, and testing rigs that show the effects of high-velocity and high-mass impact situations. The youngens will learn a thing or two about the health of their eyes and the parents will be stimulated by the technology.

According to a study, while 79% of people understand that UV rays can cause skin cancer, an overwhelming 94% are unaware that they can also have repercussions for the health of the eyes. UV rays emanating from the sun are an invisible form of damage that are present at all times of the year, causing damage that builds up over time and can result in a variety of afflictions. What’s more, reflections from the earth’s surface also compound the effects of UV that will actually reach the eyes, underscoring the need for eye protection at all times of the year.

The following percentages reflect what the eyes are exposed to when outdoors:

Snow: 85% of UV rays
Water: 20% of UV rays
Sand: 17% of UV rays
Earth and Grass: 5% of UV rays

You probably have a good idea what the sun’s rays can do to your skin…just imagine what they can do to your eyes, which are infinitely more sensitive. Eye damage linked to UV includes cataract, a condition where the eye lens becomes opaque, preventing light from getting through. UV is also linked to photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea), pterygium (tissue growth that can block vision), and macular degeneration (damage to the part of the inner eye that receives light patterns and transmits them to the brain).

Types of UV Rays:

UVA light causes premature aging of the skin and the eyes. Long-term exposure can greatly increase macular degeneration.

UVB rays are responsible for sun burns and skin cancer. They can also cause snow blindness and potentially lead to cataracts.

UVC rays are absorbed by the upper atmosphere and do not reach the earth’s surface. In industrial and medical applications, UVC lamps are used to kill bacteria and purify air.

What to Consider When Selecting Sunglasses:

Frame:

The frame’s material should provide the best benefits for the sunglasses’ intended use. For example, sports sunglasses will usually have a lightweight polymer material with rubber compound at the template tips and/or the nose.

The curve of the frame – also known as the wrap and rake – can also create some added benefits, including better peripheral sun protection, better coverage for impact protection and better coverage against the wind.

Lens:

When it comes to lens material, bear in mind that glass is fragile and provides no UV protection on its own. Plastic can also shatter and offers no UV protection on its own. Polycarbonate is inherently lightweight and offers both impact and UV protection. In fact, it’s used in the windshields of space shuttles!

Light transmission, which involves how dark the lens is, plays a key part in determining the best use for a pair of sunglasses. What makes sense for everyday use may not make sense for outdoor athletes.

The lens colour, or tint, is more than just cosmetic – a finely-tuned lens with the proper transmission and the tint engineered for the activity can significantly help an athlete perform.

In case you’re wondering (I would be!), Bryan’s cuts and bruises are due to an unfortunate mountain biking accident up in Whistler over the weekend. It looked painful!

Made popular by the starlets on the big and small screens, the modern chignon, demonstrated in the video by celebrity hair stylist Ted Gibson, is surprisingly simple. The up-do takes but a fraction of the time you need to straighten your hair! The reason why he starts the process with the flat iron though, is to give Charrisse’s hair that extra smoothness and shine that she would not have achieved otherwise.

Not all tools are created equal however. I bought my sister a relatively inexpensive one some years ago not realizing the difference and after one trial, it got demoted to the back of the cabinet under her sink and has been gathering dust ever since. The key to a good flat iron I found out, is being able to control the temperature. Different types and textures of hair require different degrees of heat to quickly and effectively straighten them so if you don’t have one that gives you that option, you’re taking the risk that it might not work too well. Even if it’s twenty dollars, it’s still twenty dollars that you burn.

Another unique product that Ted introduced me to is the Hair Sheet. A creation of his own, it is a leave-in conditioner in a towelette form and it’s soaked in proteins and vitamins that increase flexibility, shine and softness. I immediately recognized its travelling benefits. It’s not a “liquid” so you can keep it in your carry-on bag during a flight! It’s hassle-free and you don’t have to worry about exploding or leaky bottles. I’m not too crazy about having to throw away the towelette once it’s used, but it sure is convenient and very interesting. The Ted Gibson line is available exclusively at Holt Renfrew in Canada or online at www.tedgibsonbeauty.com.

Product development is one of Ted’s unique talents. After completing his education in the field, he impressed the executives at Aveda so much that they recruited him straight from school. With the company, Ted travelled the world as an educator conducting creative seminars and demonstrating bold new techniques. He also created successful products like Aveda’s Self Control Hair Styling Stick, Phomollient Styling Foam, and the Purefume Brilliant product line. After a rewarding career with the beauty giant, Ted left to fulfill another passion and became a freelance editorial stylist.

Ted is now one of the most sought-after editorial, runway, and celebrity hair stylists in the businesses. His work has appeared in publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Marie Claire, Vanity Fair, Cosmopolitan, Rolling Stone, and Allure and backstage at runway shows such as Chanel, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana. Ted is perhaps most known for toiling over the tresses of top celebrities including Angelina Jolie, Demi Moore, Anne Hathaway, Keira Knightley, Diane Sawyer, and Jessica Alba.

An influential style maker, Ted is a regular contributor on “The Today Show” and has also appeared on shows such as “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” “Good Morning America,” “Inside Edition,” and “Entertainment Tonight.” It’s hard to imagine him having any extra time, but when he’s not travelling the world, he can be found at his successful Flatiron Salon in New York City, which he runs with partner and equally sought-after hair colourist Jason Backe. Next time you’re in the Big Apple, look them up and set an appointment for an incredible makeover. Be sure to book one a couple of weeks in advance though!

Are you noticing your makeup melting away under the annoying heat of the sun? If you can’t avoid wearing makeup, this is probably an uncomfortable time of year for you. If you’re not too crazy bout water-resistant products, that’s probably warranted as not all such products are created equal. You may want to reconsider though, when you hear what Dawn Kolke has to say. The makeup artist for Kiss & Makeup, a charming little store in The Village at Park Royal, shares a couple of suggestions on what to use in the Summer:

Sue Devitt‘s Tinted Moisturizer has a Sun Protection Factor of 30, which is great for keeping the sun’s damaging rays from your skin. It’s also practical for those on the go because it acts as a moisturizer, sunblock, foundation, and powder all in one!

Kiss Me Mascara is a great water-resistant mascara that can be removed with just warm water. It’s actually pretty impressive. Check out the video to find out how that’s possible!

Stop by the store if you’re in West Vancouver. The people that work there really know their stuff and will be more than happy to run through the many lines that are not carried anywhere else. If you don’t live ’round these parts, check out their online store, where you can virtually buy anything that’s available in the boutique.

DABBLER CONTEST DETAILS AT THE END OF THIS ARTICLE!

Remember that scene in Moulin Rouge!when Ewan McGregor’s gang have a little too much fun with a fluorescent substance that makes the “Green Fairy” appear and sends them spiraling down the rabbit hole? That’s absinthe, or rather, what the myth surrounding it has led you to believe. Originally a wildly popular drink in Europe, absinthe was banned in the early 20th Century as a result of claims that it posed serious health hazards. Hallucinations, madness, and even death were linked to the mystical substance. This subject has been plagued with controversy and there are many accounts of why it was or wasn’t poisonous and harmful to those who consumed it. You could spend all day trying to dig into its history, but I wouldn’t suggest it as it is incredibly complicated and can become overly scientific very fast. That is not what this piece is about. If you want to learn more, check out THIS editorial.

The point is that the absinthe made today by Pascal Rolland, who revived it in 1999, goes through a distillation process that makes it perfectly safe for consumption, and in fact has gone on to become internationally prized. It was his daily contact with the powerful aromas of absinthe in his cellars that Monsieur Rolland first entertained the idea of using its scent in a perfume.

Knowing that he would need a specialist for the job, Pascal sought the expertise of a renowned “aromatician” from Grasse (the perfume capitol of France), Marc Villaceque. Famous for his skills as a grand nez (a “great nose”), Monsieur Villaceque was seasoned in the practice of cold extraction, heat concentration, and alembic distillation, and was therefore able to attain a pure essence of the absinthe plant.

Into a concoction it went, along with 50 other essences (including cannabis) that made up Absolument Absinthe. The perfume was originally intended for personal use as Pascal is quite particular about what he likes to wear. It was only after pressing requests from his friends and associates that he finally decided to bring his secret alchemy to the public. Now you can also wear the “forbidden” essence of absinthe in what Pascal calls his “Skin Perfume.”

Skin Perfumes are the latest trend in the world of smells. What it means is that the perfume will adapt itself to the scent of one’s particular skin. I really had doubts about this, but I compared the smell of the perfume on me to that of my hubby and it honestly did give off a different scent! The science behind the making of perfumes is truly fascinating. On a man, Absolument gives off a muskier note while on me, it clearly smelled like something made for a woman. I recommend you give it a try, even if it’s just for fun because you’ll be surprised. Go to the perfume counter at Holt Renfrew and test it out with the ribbon that Pascal uses in the video. Don’t spray it into the air to smell the scent because it will be very different from that which will develop on your own skin.

Pascal recommends you apply fragrances on pulse points: Nape (behind the ears), inner elbows, wrists, and behind the knees. Avoid perfuming the triangle that is formed by the solar plexus (breasts) and the shoulders and never layer two different perfumes or change your fragrance during the day.

I took this opportunity to also ask Pascal what the differences were between all the different types of perfumes and this is what I learned: Perfume Extracts are the ones that are extremely expensive because they contain pure essence. Eau the Parfum is diluted but still very concentrated (Absolument is an example with 20% concentration). After those, we get the lighter products such as Eau the Toilette with a concentration of about 5 to 8% and finally Eau Légère, with only about 2 or 3% concentration.

CONTEST DETAILS:

If you’re not curious about this fragrance, then you’re Absolument crazy! The first thing I wanted to do when I read about this absinthe/cannabis mixture was to give it a whiff, so I knew I definitely had to give you guys the opportunity to do the same, so here’s another contest! If you would like to try out Pascal Rolland’s unique perfume Absolument Absinthe in the nifty refillable pocket spray that he shows in the video, send me an EMAIL with the correct answer to this:

According to Pascal Rolland, what is the latest trend in perfumes? Explain.

This is a good one guys (this stuff ain’t cheap!). You have until Wednesday August 1st to send in your submissions for your chance to win. Don’t forget to send your full contact info!

Regular contest rules apply.