Menswear: The Sporting Life With Philip Sparks

Designers are putting the final touches on their collections as they prepare for LG Fashion Week in Toronto.  The official week kicks off tomorrow, October 19th, but one man decided to showcase his Spring/Summer 2010 collection a little earlier.  I had an opportunity to catch up with menswear designer Philip Sparks at his Toronto studio. It’s a small collection but quite unique and truly Canadian.

Sparks says he was inspired by the Canadian cottage life: canoeing, fishing and portaging.  Ah, yes, we’ll have to wait a good while before we can savour that lifestyle once again.  Meantime, check out his offerings for S/S ‘10.

CLICK HERE to See the Philip Sparks
Spring/Summer 2010: Video

Star Service: DSquared2 on Canada’s Walk of Fame

I had an opportunity to chat with one-half of the dynamic design duo, DSquared2.  Dean Caten was absolutely thrilled and honoured to be recognized by Canada’s Walk of Fame for his (and brother Dan’s) contribution to the world of style.  Will have to try and get the phone interview up on the blog.  Dean was quite the colourful character chatting from his phone while vacationing in Greece.

Here’s the newspaper article which ran in the Sun papers across Canada.

Secrets of Seduction: Video

High fashion is not just limited to suits and handbags.  The French have long cornered the market on fine lingerie and their reign continues.  I checked out a fashion show in Toronto recently, where top French lingerie designers showcased fall’s trends on Canadian models – great combination, eh?!

Check out the video here.

Aviator Sunglasses: Sexy, Smart & Always in Style

Nothing makes a cool statement like a pair of classic aviator sunglasses.  Check out my article and video produced for Sun Media.  The article gives expert advice on finding the right pair while the video showcases the latest models – on our model!

Enjoy.

The ‘Skinny’ on Ultra-Sleek Pants

Not quite sure what took me so long but I finally bought a pair of sleek, slim black pants.  They are actually more like leggings but with piping running down the centre front and back leg.  That essential detail gives the “pants” enough structure to be worn at the office with a blazer and or/crisp, button-down shirt.  In other words, your boss is unlikely to send you home with a note asking your mother to dress you properly.

I’m someone who loves to buy on sale – even to the point where I get things I don’t need, just because it was 20 or 30% off.  Unfortunately, staple items rarely go on sale (usually sold out by mid-season) so if you want to add instant sex appeal to your fall wardrobe without being “overly ambitious” bite the bullet, pay full price and enjoy your purchase for the entire season.  Skinny jeans/ pants,/leggings have and will continue to be around for a while so display those tight glutes and gams.

If you haven’t hit the gym recently or are worried about some, ah, “extra bit of baggage” or just want to err on the side of modesty, stick with black and wear a top or jacket that covers your backside.  Keep in mind though, leggings can be slimming (thanks in large part to Lycra) and your butt probably isn’t as big as you think it is, so show it off!!

Spring Has Not Yet Sprung and I’m thinking…

I need a new winter coat!  I blame my current obsession on Linda Lindstrom. The Toronto-based designer made quite the comeback at LG Fashion Week previewing a fantastic Fall/Winter 2009 collection which will definitely have women flocking to her store later this year.

Lundstrom re-emerged with a stronger focus and brand which still includes her legendary fur-trimmed Laparka, created more than 20 years ago and a big reason for her international success.

Like many Canadian companies, Lundstrom was hit hard by the volatility and sharp rise of the Canadian dollar – a key reason why her company filed for bankruptcy.  At the time, though, she said “It’s premature to say it’s over.”  Lundstrom was right.

She has a partner – Eleventh Floor Apparel – handling her business affairs now.  That allows her to get back to what she does best: design elegant, sexy outerwear (yes that is possible) that is both wearable and affordable.  Best of all?  The clothes are still made right here, in Toronto.  Welcome back Linda!

Check out the Evan Biddell runway show, along with Barbie’s 5oth anniversary and Rowenta’s new products at LG Fashion Week in Toronto.

<

>LG Fashion Week with Anita Sharma from scottwitter on Vimeo.

Menswear: Spring Trends With Harry Rosen

The boys from ZZ Top are absolutely right when they sing  ‘coz every girl crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man‘.  Spring is just around the corner and while a lot of men anticipate seeing women in sexier outfits, women have a lot to look forward to as well – thanks to Harry Rosen.

The legendary retailer walked me through his flagship store in Toronto to preview upcoming spring trends for menswear.   The multi-level emporium on Bloor Street is perfect for the man who craves one-stop-shopping.  It caters to many different price points with suits ranging from $1,000 – 25,000.  The hip, cutting edge fashion is on the ground floor while made-to-measure suits can be ordered on the top level.

Menswear: Spring Trends with Harry Rosen from Anita Sharma on Vimeo.

This season the look is lean and classic. Think, Barack Obama but with more than just white shirts. The President’s famous Canali suit is available at Harry Rosen too. I’m told that suit went flying off the shelves after his jacket label inadvertently flashed for cameras, proving he’s not the only Obama with retail clout.

Countless customers have grown up with Mr. Rosen maintaining their relationship with the premium retailer whilst climbing the corporate ladder.  It’s easy to see how and why he has been in business 55 years and is still going strong.  He is charming and passionate about making men look great whether it’s a suit for work or casual wear for the weekend.

Mr. Rosen has a lot to say and show you so check out the video.  We’ll have more with him in the weeks ahead.  Stay tuned…

www.AnitaSharmaBlog.com

Partisan Ties? Obama’s Ottawa Visit

It seems people are anxious to read the tea leaves wondering how Obama will fare over the next four-to-eight years and whether U.S/Canada relations will improve under the new administration.  Canadians are also nervous about their own (minority) government which is likely headed for yet another election.

The media coverage of Obama’s first presidential visit to Canada was at times, amusing, especially when tv journalists asked pressing questions like ‘Why didn’t Obama call the Prime Minister by his first name?’ or ‘I am told President Obama is enjoying a beaver tail at the local market’ (that’s a fried pastry, btw).

All that overanalizing and giddy reporting encouraged me to look for my own useless clues:  I settled on their ties.

Throughout the U.S. election, then-senator Barack Obama appeared to make symbolic overtures to conservative voters by wearing Republican red ties.  Michelle Obama even wore a bright red dress on election night (although that dress was not tv friendly).  Now, it seems Obama has gone back to blue.  He proudly dons his party’s colors while riding a wave of optimism during the honeymoon phase of his administration.

Analyzing Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s tie is, like the man, a bit more complicated.  In Canada, party colors are reversed with the Conservatives owning blue.  I couldn’t help but wonder what was behind Harper’s choice of red tie with a few diagonal blue stripes.  Was he taking a page out of Obama’s election handbook employing the age-old strategy of befriend thy enemy by wearing their (Liberal) party colors?  Perhaps that little splash of blue on his tie was Harper’s way of assuaging Conservative fears that he is acquiescing to too many Liberal demands?

I can’t wait for the next presidential visit.  Hopefully President Obama will bring the First Lady giving us even more opportunities to overanalize.

AnitaSharmaBlog.com

Punk Rocks Again Thanks to Marc Jacobs

All eyes were on “Master Marc” and the man, clad in a black kilt and combat boots did not disappoint.  His Fall 2009 collection is fab-u-lous… a bit of something for everyone so long as you are not a wallflower.

I have to admit I was not too impressed by NY Fashion Week until this show.  Jacobs’ ode to the era of 1980s punk rock is right on time. Check out these shoulder pads below.

The collection rocks.  My personal favorites include: an aerodynamic gold bustier – remember that show “The V”…

The collection seemed to have a bit of everything: fun and spontaneity courtesy of neon-colored coats and sensuality too – sexy, suede thigh-high boots.

This collection makes me want to go through my old record collection (yes, records).  Doesn’t the model (in black and white) resemble Siouxsie (sans the Banshees) or Chrissie Hynde from The Pretenders?

If you’re ready to make a statement, this collection is for you.  It’s Judy Jetson-meets-Pat Benatar…punk rock pretties.  The perfect prototype to battle the mood of economic doom and gloom, no?

Menswear: Dressing Well During A Recession

The current economic malaise sure has taken a bite out of consumer confidence.  People are worried especially when, on a daily basis, they are bombarded with news about job cuts, stock market downturns and company shutdowns.  When stalwart companies like Microsoft announce layoffs, well, you know these are turbulent times.

Unfortunately, this has turned the job market into a super-competitive arena where it is not good enough to be qualified for a job: Headhunters and prospective employers judge you on everything, including personal grooming.  Is that unfair?  Perhaps, but until you are in a position where you call the shots, it is best to work within the existing parameters.

Quite a few women have been writing in, requesting advice about helping the men in their lives dress during these economic times particularly if they are job hunting.

Most of the (heterosexual) men I know do not appreciate the art of shopping, let alone wait for a sale.  When they need it, they buy it.  Simple as that.  No fooling around.  That usually entails buying at regular price and often paying too much because you did not or (could not) spend time comparing prices.  This approach is fine if money is not an issue and you have a large stash of disposable cash.  Even then, it is tough for a man to justify spending money on things he might deem frivilous.

Here are some tips on how to dress well and on a budget during a recession.

Spend Money on a Good Suit

A well-tailored suit is a man’s best friend.  It hides flaws, accentuates positive attributes and provides solid structure.  In North America, the single-breasted suit with two or three buttons down the front is most common and quite flattering.  For the pants, only choose cuffs if you are tall since it will shorten the look of your leg.  Unless you have the budget to buy more than one suit purchase a conservative (read: not trendy) one that will not go out of style next year.

Your first stop should be at a store that specializes in men’s clothing.  In Canada, it would be Harry Rosen or Holt Renfrew’s men’s department.  Yes, their clothing can be expensive but you can get great advice even if you do not buy anything (and feel no obligation to do so).  Too often, men wear suits that are too big or the fabric is of poor quality.  Let a qualified salesperson guide you in the right direction.  They may even tell you about an upcoming sale.  While it would be nice to get a good suit on sale, do not count on it.  Expect to pay a bit more for a well-made suit.

Get Crisp, White Dress Shirts

A crisp, white dress shirt says you are solid, dependable and conservative – attributes you want to advertise during tough economic times.  As with the suit, men often wear shirts that are too big for their build.  Slim men should avoid shirts with pleats.  They do not need the extra fabric especially under a fitted suit.  Choose a collar that flatters the shape of your face:  A spread collar will enhance a long, slender face while a pointed collar will elongate a wide (cherubic!) face.  Keep the cuff links in your drawer for now as they may seem rather pretentious and gauche.

Smooth Silk Ties

This is where you can have fun and show some personality.  You can score a deal too which is great since you should have at least ten good ties in your closet to get you through the week and tide you over while some are at the cleaners.

In Toronto, a good place for deals on well-made silk ties is Holt Renfrew Last Call.  The merchandise will be from a previous season but that should not deter you.  Only a true fashion expert would notice and even then, who cares.  You really cannot go wrong here especially if the suit and dress shirt are fairly conservative.  As you gain knowledge and expertise in the art of dressing you will be able to play with shirt patterns and colors too, but for now, play it safe.

Matching Socks, Please

Whether they match your pants or shoes, just make sure they color-coordinate with something!  This may seem like a minor point but it will not go unnoticed by the person sitting across from you, particularly if it is a woman.  While you will not earn points for matching, you will lose in a big way if an effort is not made here.  Big no-no’s:  White or no socks.

Shoes

Unlike women, men seem to think the fewer pairs, the better.  You may not need a closet full of shoes but you should have more than one pair.  Oxford shoes are popular – for good reason.  They can be worn practically all year and flatter most suit styles.  Just remember if you wear slim, fitted pants the shoes should also be light and sleek.  Save the bulkier shoes for baggier pants.  If you are investing in a good pair of shoes you should also get a reputable cobbler to stitch rubber soles onto the sole.  It will preserve them.

If you have some cash to spare (money you saved buying ties on sale!) add a pair of light brown or tan-colored leather shoes to your wardrobe.  Shown right, these shoes are enormously flattering with an olive or brown suit.  The look is sophisticated, sharp and will definitely set you apart from the rest.

Happy shopping and good luck scoring the job of your dreams.

Next Page »