Giving credit where credit is due. That’s the motivation behind the creation of this line of fragrances that embodies the classic art of perfumery.

Like a child who grows up in a circus and knows the trapeze naturally, Frédéric Malle was brought up in a family of perfumers and became sensitized at a very young age to the world of fragrances. It’s no wonder, considering his grandfather was Parfums Christian Dior founder Serge Heftler-Louiche, and his mother the art director of the design giant for many years.

Even though the choice seemed obvious, Malle thought that he would move on to a different field, and for a while he did. But having developed a very acute appreciation for scents, he was asked to work at the famed Roure lab, where his career took a significant turn. “The minute I walked into that lab, I realized that it was home for me,” he reminisces. Having just come from the field of advertising at the time, he found the understated and humble world of perfumers refreshing and inspiring.

Fragrances have always been fronted by famous faces or famous names. No one ever really gives a second thought to the people behind the actual creations. That is what Malle sought to change in 2000 when he founded Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle. Crazy as it sounds, after selecting nine of the best “noses” in the industry, Malle offered them the ultimate freedom to create their dream fragrances, “fragrances with no limits, with no compromises.” Money was no longer an object and deadlines were a thing of the past. Without such restrictions tainting the results, these famous yet unknown perfumers were given the rare opportunity to develop products that were not only truly their own (and showcased as such), but to be enjoyed with absolute pride.

Simplicity is the key to a successful scent. As Malle explained to me, the simplest formulas or as he puts it, “those that are to the point,” often turn out to be the best. Perfumes that are of poor quality are ones that try to say too many things at once. Asked how one selects the right fragrance for them, Malle turns again to his principle of freedom. There are many clichés in the perfume industry and he is very quick to brush them all off. Simply trust your nose and the emotions that a particular smell invokes. What you like is generally what will suit you and don’t let science or jargon muddle up what you think is best. There isn’t even a “right” way of applying perfumes, he tells me. Dab it or splash it anywhere you like according to the strength of the perfume and be careful with dark fragrances if you apply them on clothes because they’re likely to stain. In terms of guidelines, that’s as much as you need to know really. He did point out that if you wear perfume on your skin, you’ll still have it on even if your clothes are not. Oh the French eh!

Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle is available at Holt Renfrew and believe me when I tell you this: The people working there really really know their stuff. After we wrapped up the video shoot, I chatted with a couple of their personnel and before I knew it, I’d lost at least half an hour. I guarantee you’ll be impressed by the service and I have absolutely no doubt that you’ll leave learning volumes about not only these fragrances, but the very interesting science and history behind them all. Look for Bojana!

For more info on the people or the products featured in this piece, visit www.editionsdeparfums.com

Ok, I might come off sounding like an absolute fool but until recently, I actually didn’t know that Xbox 360 was Microsoft. Yes, yes, can you tell I’m not a hard core gamer? (and I actually OWN a unit!) I enjoy the occasional arcade or third person adventure game but ask me anything about platforms and you will likely hear crickets.

One of the games that was really hyped up last year was Viva Piñata but when I actually watched a sample of it, I honestly didn’t see the appeal of this simulation game. So when I heard about Viva Piñata Party Animals, I didn’t give it a second thought…until I actually tried it. Turns out, it’s just the type of mindless fun that I enjoy at the end of a long day. I guess there were many other who shared my sentiment about the original game.

That is one of the features of this video, as well as Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action. I’ve got the original board game and although it’s not bad, I don’t take it out much. The video game version of it is much more appealing, and if you see the sample in the video, you’ll see what I mean.

Those of you that are computer gamers, we haven’t left you out. Check out the video to see the two expansion packs that are now available for two already popular games. And finally, there’s the Sidewinder Gaming Mouse, which is the craziest mouse I’ve ever seen! It’s designed for the gamer, and as such, comes with all sorts of bells and whistles. I’ve never seen anything like it.

From the moment we are woken up by the radio alarm clock, to the time we pick up our electric toothbrushes as we prepare for bed, we are using gadgets. Tech journalist Akash Sablok of AndNowYouKnow.net is back featuring the latest in gadgets around the house.

Full details on the featured items to come soon…

That was the question that greeted me when I opened a package that I got in the mail the other day. Amused, I flipped open the lid of the metal box within it and noticed the familiar red letters that spelled out ‘Mars.’ But this wasn’t just chocolate; it was dark chocolate. With everyone becoming a little more health conscious and with dietitians and nutritionists loudly proclaiming the benefits of dark chocolate because of all its “heart healthy flavinoids and anti-oxidant properties,” confectionaries left and right have adapted their production to include this variety in their products. I didn’t much like dark chocolate at first but I’ve come to really enjoy it now. Keep in mind though, that it’s still a treat and should still be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is never a good thing.

Anyhow, back to my surprise package. Surrounding the bar were other items that on their own, would seem insignificant: A large candle, a sleeping eye mask, a light stick, a movie pass, a small packet of bath wash. In this context though, I thought it was quite clever. You gotta admit introducing a dark chocolate bar this way is refreshing. I’ve seen my fair share of press releases and kits so when one comes along that amazes me, or in this case, gives me a chuckle, I make a note of it. It’s getting tougher for advertisers to come up with unique ways of catching people’s attention so I can appreciate a good effort.

Like I said before, I like to give away the stuff I get so this pack will be another one I’d like to pass on to you. If you’d like to win this Mars Dark bar box ‘o’ goodies, email me with your answer to the following question:

What do YOU like better in the dark? (and keep it clean folks).

I’m going to keep this contest within the Lower Mainland because there’s a movie gift certificate that might not work elsewhere so all you local chocolate lovers out there, email me! The deadline for submissions is Friday September 21st.

For some yummy recipes using a Mars Dark bar, read on!

Read the rest of this entry »

Did you know that Dalmatians, Collies, and even some Terries have a genetic predisposition to deafness? If you can’t seem to get your overzealous pup to behave, maybe it’s because he/she doesn’t hear what it is you’re trying to say! So before disciplining them, check out the video and find out a new and better way to communicate with your four-legged friend.

What’s most appealing about teaching your dogs how to sign is how surprisingly easy it is for them to learn. Dingo, the Australian Shepherd who is featured in the video, is only three months old and can already respond to a handful of commands. In Selena’s experience, it generally doesn’t take more than a day for them to retain the lesson they’ve learned.

And whoever said that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks obviously never considered sign language because no matter what age or breed your dog is, they’ll take it up with no problems. It’s much easier in fact, than teaching babies how to sign. Once infants do though, even they are able to speak to the dog. I watched Selena’s toddler do just that and it was quite impressive.

The reason is because dogs are 75% more likely to respond to gestures and body language than verbal commands. It’s impossible for you to understand what your dog is barking, so imagine yourself in their position. Notice how even though no one can understand what you’re saying in a foreign country, with some simple gestures, you’re able to communicate? According to a dog walker and a dog trainer that Selena consulted, people talk too much to their dogs and they get them all worked up with their voices.

There are many reasons why you might consider using sign with your dog:

* To give a silent command in a noisy environment
* To give a command (like ‘wait for me’) through a window
* To give a secret command to your dog in front of others
* To give your dog a command from a distance. In situations such as heavy traffic, this could potentially save their life
* To be able to communicate with your deaf or aging dog
* To train acting dogs for movie sets

Selena’s DVD has even caught the attention of A-list Hollywood celebrities and was invited to be part of The Oscar’s gift basket this year.

Mimic Mutt is available online at:

www.mimicmutt.com and www.mimicbabyondemand.com

And in the following Yaletown stores:

Luv My Dog at 1051 Mainland St, Vancouver www.luvmydog.ca
The Dog & Hydrant at 1146 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver www.thedogandhydrant.com

Tech journalist Akash Sablok of AndNowYouKnow.net is back with more fun gadgets, but this time, with an educational twist as we herald in the first day of classes. Games, fitness, music, even literature is covered in this update so check out the video!

For details on the featured items, read on…

Read the rest of this entry »

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!

I bought it in 2004 and really wouldn’t drive anything else. But hold up now! Don’t get me wrong. This isn’t a push to get you to sign up for one yourself, but rather a gentle nudge for you to consider the possibility of switching to a more environmentally friendly car; any environmentally friendly car.

Earth friendly message aside though, the Prius is just plain cool to drive. Check out the video and tell me you’re not the least bit curious about a car that turns on by the push of a power button! You don’t even need to take your keys out of your pocket in order to turn it on (go see one yourself and find out why). You’ll also get so used to the sweet silence of driving one, that you won’t want to go back to your old loud and vibrating car. Just imagine if everyone drove an electric or hybrid car. I’m talking about a city world with virtually no noise pollution. Pretty crazy eh?

Believe it or not, Toyota hybrid vehicles meet and often exceed the performance of their gasoline-only counterparts. The combination of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and an electric motor produces an incredibly smooth ride and provides powerful and even acceleration. Idling also becomes a non-issue when you’re driving a hybrid. During startup and idling, the vehicle runs from its electric motor, greatly reducing CO2 emissions.

If anything, I’m sure you know, or have heard about its money saving aspects. Hybrid vehicles simply need less fuel to travel the same distance as non-hybrids, so it’s good for the environment AND good for your wallet. I drove down to San Francisco with a couple of friends as soon as I got mine and the round trip cost me just a little over $100 US in gas. I was floored. The mileage for this thing on a highway is phenomenal. I averaged 4.8 L per 100 km!

If none of the above seems to make any difference, maybe you have some misconceptions about hybrids that need to be cleared up. Even though they’ve been around for a long time, certain myths prevail:

Myth 1: All hybrid vehicles are the same

There are several hybrid technologies available but I’ve done my research and believe me when I say this one’s ahead of the class. Other technologies may be smart but will still take a lot of time to perfect. Are you really willing to wait?

Myth 2: Hybrid vehicles need to be plugged in

Nope. It automatically recharges the batteries through advanced technologies such as regenerative braking (this is so fascinating that your eyes will be glued to the touchscreen monitor). There is talk of an upcoming plug-in hybrid where you can charge your batteries overnight to further increase the mileage, but as of now, no such vehicle is available. Even if it was, plugging it in would be optional.

Myth 3: Hybrid batteries need to be replaced

It’s designed to maintain the battery at optimal performance levels over the life of the vehicle. In fact, the batteries in Toyota hybrids have an 8-year/160,000 km warranty.

Myth 4: Hybrids are expensive

They are competitively priced and provide excellent value through lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance. Click here to find out exactly how much it would cost you to own one.

Myth 5: Hybrids are small and underpowered

Actually, the Highlander and Camry hybrids are the same size as their gas-only counterparts. Because of the interaction between the gas engine and electric motor, Toyota hybrids have a higher net horsepower than a typical gas engine of similar size and a 0 to 100 advantage due to the electric motor torque being available from 0 rpm.

It doesn’t cost anything to test drive one of these puppies, so do what Nike says! Falling in love with a Prius is inevitable.

For more info, visit www.hybridsynergydrive.ca

In the video, Bryon Stremler talks about Fuel Efficiency Incentives or in other words, getting money back by purchasing a hybrid vehicle (or a fuel efficient car like the Yaris). With the Prius, you can get up to $4,000 from the Canadian Provincial and Federal governments (similar rebates are available in any other country). It is important to note though, that this program has yet to kick in here. They are quite late in implementing it and many customers have complained as a result. Don’t worry though. If you buy one, you’ll definitely get that money. It’s how long it’s going to take for you to get it that’s going to frustrate you. Check in on Saturday as Mad Morten addresses that very issue in this week’s installment of Parliament of One.

Remember when Brangelina had their baby last year? Barely introduced to the world and Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt managed to create massive hype for the Pots & Pans Band t-shirt that she wore in the much anticipated People Magazine photos shoot. Now THAT’s star power.

Kingsley, the designer of the line with the same name, was in Vancouver for the first time this past weekend and sat down with me to chat about the evolution of children’s clothing and life after the whirlwind of publicity.

The brand was formed three years ago after the birth of Kingsley’s son, Zephir. Like any new parent-to-be, Kingsley and Amy were excited to start shopping for their little boy and very quickly realized that there was a very limited selection of clothing that defined their lifestyle. They didn’t settle however. When Zephir came out of the hospital, he was wearing the first ever hand-crafted Kingsley onesy. That got a huge response. All their friends were into it and that is how Kingsley Clothing was created. Their local community was very supportive but they never anticipated celebrities like Gwen Stefani, Johnny Depp, Chris Cornell (their favourite rock star), Seal & Heidi Klum, to turn to them for their children’s fashion needs.

Kingsley isn’t into the habit of sending celebrities clothes. That’s never been his philosophy. “We don’t like to shove it down people’s throats no matter who they are, celebrity or not. We just figured if they like it, they’ll buy it and that’s always been the case.” They send Brad & Angelina a package once in a while now as a thank you for all the exposure they’ve given him but that’s where it stops. Kingsley is confident that the quality of the product speaks for itself. A lot of copycat brands have emerged as a result of his great success but the motives are different. Kingsley saw a need and wanted to fill a void in children’s clothing.

Much of his inspiration comes from his son. The Pots & Pans Band t-shirt came about when Zephir started a band in their kitchen. He was the drummer, banging on all the pots and pans and that sparked an idea. With a background in fine art, graphics, and photography, Kingsley is now expanding the line to pants, wovens, a line of accessories, and larger sizes. Look for an adult line this Fall at Holt Renfrew and if you’d like to carry the brand in your store, click here for contact info.

In today’s ‘Gap’ed world, we all need “a little more style…a little more flavour.”

As those tasseled caps are tossed into the air all across Canada, parents are taking the opportunity to reward their graduates, whether they be finishing high school or university, for all the hard work they’ve put in over the years.

To help proud moms and dads pick the gifts that will get the top grades, Robin Keeler, Yorkdale Shopping Centre’s expert shopper and fashion director, has these suggestions: Read the rest of this entry »