The Fashion & Beauty Blog

Trend alert: Mint green pants

Erin Lukas — Thu, 17 May 2012 16:00:44 GMT

I’ve lost count over the number of times we’ve featured bold pants on this blog – whether bright or printed. So if you’re looking for a change of hue or still aren’t convinced vivid bottoms are right for you, pastel-colour pants are a softer, more feminine option.

Mint green seems to be the front-runner of the sorbet hues – it's a surprisingly versatile shade that can be paired with neutral-colour tops. These skinny jeans from Old Navy will keep you cool all summer long.

The Rock Star Pop-Colour Jeans, $35, oldnavy.ca.

If the thought of wearing light-colour skinny jeans freaks you out, you can still get your candy-colour fix and a more relaxed fit with these office-friendly chinos from J.Crew.

Scout Chino, $81.50, jcrew.com.

Skinny jeans available at Old Navy and chinos available at J.Crew.

4 last-minute Mother's Day gift ideas

Erin Lukas — Tue, 08 May 2012 16:00:04 GMT

Whether you’ve been busy at work, have a lack of gift-giving ideas or – let’s be honest – you simply forgot, you’re running out of time to find your mom the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Before hitting the mall only to walk around aimlessly without any gift options in mind, get inspired with these four wallet-friendly gifts.

Roots Edie Bag, $78, exclusively at dealuxe.ca.

A sleek carryall like this aqua Roots Edie bag ($78) from dealuxe.ca is large enough to hold all of your mom's daily essentials without weighing her down throughout the day.

Stripe Crystal Stretch Bracelet, $45.50, jcrew.com.

Add some colour and sparkle to your mom's wrist with an updated take on a classic bracelet, courtesy of J.Crew ($45.50).

Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum, 28 mL, $75, sephora.com.

Instead of copping out and giving your mom a bouquet of her favourite flowers, Viktor and Rolf's Flowerbomb scent ($75) is one set of flowers that will always be in bloom.

The Connoisseur Tea Set, $26.50, davidstea.com.

If you're still at a loss about what to give your mom this Sunday – or you want to gift on the safe side – go with The Connoisseur Tea Set ($26.50) by David's Tea. With a selection of 12 traditional teas, including Organic Breakfast and Silk Dragon Jasmine, you'll have your mom covered, no matter her cup of tea.

What are your foolproof Mother's Day gift ideas?

Pretty quick: 3 steps to the perfect self-tan

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Tue, 08 May 2012 13:00:37 GMT

Spring is in the air, and as the days start to grow longer my hem lines are progressively getting shorter. Which means I need to do something about my ghostly white skin. I'm pale. My skin tone au natural looks like I could be an extra from the cast of "True Blood" -- yes, that pasty. I'd like some colour, but I don't want to look like an extra from "Jersey Shore." Somewhere in the middle would be nice, and without any damage from UVA/UVB rays, of course!

In my quest to achieve a slightly golden glow I've turned to sunless tanners. My current obsession is St. Tropez Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse ($38). Not cheap, I know, but it pays to splurge on a self-tanner if it works with you skin's chemistry. It's continuously given me streak-free, non-orangey results without the telltale smell of most faux-tanners. However, I'm the first to admit that you need to go through the prepping motions to achieve the perfect fake tan.

Here are the rules of self-tanning -- step by step.

1. Prep your skin: Shave and exfoliate the same day you self-tan. And never pick an oil-based exfoliator as the slick consistency can prevent the tanning formula from adhering to your skin.

Try: Venus and Olay Razor with two replacement cartridges ($12) and Origins Incredible Spreadable Scrub (250 mL, $27.50).

2. Moisturize dry spots... or all over: Don't forget those dry areas like your elbows, knees and feet. If they're not properly moisturized they'll pick up more colour than the rest of your body and will look splotchy. If you have normal-to-dry skin it doesn't hurt to moisturize all over.

Try: Yes to Blueberries Rejuvenating Body Lotion (170 g, $10).

3. Find your formula: If you're a newbie to self-tanners you may want to forgo the sprays. They're more difficult to apply evenly and give you greater risk of streaks. Look for a tanner with a temporary tint – that way you can cover off all the desired areas without missing any spots. Also, to avoid orange hands wear plastic gloves.

For major colour payoff, try: St. Tropez Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse (120 mL, $38). For a buildable gradual tan, try: Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer (200 mL, $10).

Barbie and TFI's 25th birthday

Karen Kwinter — Mon, 07 May 2012 20:28:48 GMT

I had the pleasure of attending the Toronto Fashion Incubator's birthday bash last Thursday evening. The TFI has been nurturing local design talent for the last 25 years and counts stars such as Sunny Fong and David Dixon among its alumni.

As a guest of Mattel, I helped celebrate the facility's anniversary with a very special Barbie fashion show. For the show, 25 designers were asked to create dresses inspired by Barbie. The dresses were modelled by local celebrities, including Dina Pugliese and Liz West.

Liz West

The dresses were all gorgeous, ranging from a rainbow tulle and feather fishtail hem to a stunning, pleated cream concoction that was over the top and frothy and sweet all at the same time.

A few of the designs

For the feel-good finale, $10,000 was awarded to the creator of the winning design, Thunder Bay native Sarah Nicol of Sar Couture. Her cocktail-length black-and-white chevron dress was highlighted with gorgeous Barbie-inspired hot pink satin and was modelled by "Degrassi" actress Meghan Heffern.

Designer Sarah Nicol (right) and actress Meghan Heffern in the winning design.

The entire evening was a huge success, including the New Label show that ended the festivities and was won by the very talented Edmonton-born designer Sid Neigum for his lust-worthy modern separates.

Fashion news: TFI 25th anniversary gala

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Fri, 04 May 2012 20:23:08 GMT

Last night the Royal Ontario Museum played host to the Toronto Fashion Incubator's 25th anniversary gala, which included dinner, an exhibit, a new labels runway show and an award presentation. I was lucky enough to be in attendance, and as a guest I was able to partake in some high-quality people watching – which is pretty much one of my favourite pastimes. I saw some major gowns and serious bling, but that was just the preshow. I was really there to take in the Canadian design talent in the TFI New Labels show.

Photography by George Pimentel.

The TFI has been a driving force in the careers of our country's top fashion brands – from David Dixon, Joeffer Caoc and Arthur Mendonça to Smythe, Juma and Stephen Wong of Greta Constantine. This year the top four contenders were Edmonton native Sid Neigum; outerwear label Jameson Kane, designed by Genevieve Pearson and Stanley Capobianco; [blak]·i, created by Diego Fuchs and Helder Aguiar; and Montreal-based designer Patrick Larrivée.

Photography by George Pimentel.

I was tremendously impressed with all the design talent. My personal style lends itself to [blak]·i, which was kind of like a northern version of Alexander Wang. I would love to own everything fom that collection.

However, after seeing all four mini collections (each designer showed 12 looks) it was obvious the award was going to either Sid Neigum or Patrick Larrivée. Despite the master styling of Larrivée's collection I was leaning toward Team Sid. Especially because his proud parents were sitting at our table.

And the winner was... Sid Neigum!

Photography by George Pimentel.

The winning collection featured sleek separates in an all black, beige, grey and white palette. Neigum showcased a range of meticulously tailored pieces in a variety of styles using a mix of fabrics including lamb leather, boiled wool, cashmere, linen and bamboo. The designer will receive $25,000 (cash) courtesy of philanthropist and honorary gala event chair Suzanne Rogers, as well as a feature in Flare magazine and free studio space at TFI, sponsored by TNT boutique.

I'm anxious to see more from this emerging Canadian designer.

Cool new collab: Anna Dello Russo does H&M

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:01:17 GMT

Yesterday H&M announced its latest collaboration — but this time around it's not with a designer. For the first time it's with a living style icon, Anna Dello Russo. The Vogue Japan director-at-large is set to launch an accessory line with the fast-fashion Swedish retailer this fall.

Photo credit: Magnus Magnusson

What can you expect from the fashion maniac's accessory line come October? The overall vision has been dubbed "over-the-top", it will feature rhinestone encrusted sunglasses, over sized jewelry, gilded shoes and statement bags. One things for sure, it's going to be flashy. Which makes my heart race, because exaggerated accessories makes me melt. In this case — like most cases — bigger is definitely better.

Phot credit: Magnus Magnusson

Her bold taste and keen eye for decoration are sure to make this partnership a successful one. Dello Russo's new line with H&M is set to hit 140 stores world wide on October, 4. Will you be lining up?

3 summer-ready flat sandals

Erin Lukas — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:00:16 GMT

The weather has been a bit of a downer lately, but it hasn't stopped me from dreaming of warmer temperatures and the shoe possibilities that come with sunnier days.

Cue the flat sandal. If I'm planning on running around throughout the day, I need a pair of shoes that are slightly more practical then wedges (though I swear wedges are actually comfortable) but still stylish at the same time.

The on-trend possibilities this year are endless, with features such as metallic straps, bold colours and even a few studs. Here are my three top picks to keep you looking cool all summer long.

Snakeskin was a huge print this past fall and it looks like it's sticking around on these black imitation leather sandals from H&M.

Black snakeskin sandals, $30, hm.com/ca.

If you're still unsure about trying colour blocking, these metallic and orange Zara sandals are a way to incorporate bold colours into your outfit with ease.

Two-tone sandals, $36, zara.com.

And if you're looking for more modest footwear, these nude buckled T-strap sandals from J.Crew are fit for running errands around the city on a balmy sunny day.

Cecelia buckle sandals, $138, jcrew.com.

What is your go-to pair of shoes on a summer day?

Sandals available at H&M, Zara and J.Crew.

Fresh Faced: Introducing Canada’s luxury natural beauty online retailer

Erin Lukas — Tue, 01 May 2012 13:29:24 GMT

Have you ever read the back of the packaging on one of your favourite beauty products?

If you haven’t, chances are you won’t be able to pronounce the names of half of the ingredients that make up your favourite mascara or eye shadow. If that doesn’t scare you, it should. There’s the possibility that some of the ingredients listed may be potentially harmful to your health.

Sally Glover, who is based in Toronto, was tired of using potentially dangerous products and fed up with the frustrations of trying to find natural and nontoxic personal-care products in Canada. So she launched Fresh Faced, a one-stop online shop that will help you fill your makeup bag and bathroom cabinet with luxury natural products, minus expensive shipping and duty fees.

Why should you consider making the switch to natural beauty products?

“If you're using conventional brands, you're exposed to potentially thousands of chemicals that are readily absorbed through the skin. Not too pretty, right?" says Glover. "Choosing clean, responsible products limits your exposure to many of these nasties: substances known or suspected to be carcinogenic or mutagenic, reproductive toxins, developmental toxins, neurotoxins and hormone disruptors.”

The Fresh Faced website also features a blog filled with tips and info on trendy natural products. Glover hopes that “one day the terms 'natural product' or 'organic makeup' won't conjure up images of Birkenstocks or earth mamas," she says. "I wanted to incorporate editorial content just like any other mainstream fashion or beauty site. The products are equally as beautiful and stylish – they just happen to be clean and sustainable as well.”

Soapwalla Deodorant Cream, $12, freshfaced.ca

If you’re not sure where to start or what product to try first, one of the site’s current bestsellers is Soapwalla Deodorant Cream ($12), which unlike many other natural deodorants, actually works. Other favourites include Revolution Organics Freedom Lip Gloss ($29) and Lavera Volume Mascara ($23).

Would you switch to using natural beauty products?

We Love: Beauty Multitools

Charitable collaboration: Tory Burch + FEED

Erin Lukas — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:04:42 GMT

By now we’re all used to the endless hysteria surrounding designer collaborations, such as the recent Marni and Versace collections for H&M. However, it’s refreshing to see a designer pairing that has a purpose.

Tory Burch + FEED tote bags, $50 each, holtrenfrew.com

Tory Burch, the purveyor of sophisticated yet attainable womenswear, has partnered with FEED to put her personal and colourful touch on the organization’s traditional burlap bags. Burch's bags will be available exclusively at holtrenfrew.com starting April 30 and at all Holt Renfrew locations beginning May 10. In your choice of three vibrant hues, these bags are essential for running errands or hitting the beach this summer.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each bag will go toward FEED’s initiative to feed children in areas of the world that are in need, and will help Holt Renfrew in their goal to raise $100,000 to provide 500,000 meals for children and contribute $50, 000 in microfinance and mentoring support.

A designer collaborating with one of Canada’s favourite retailers to help a worthy cause is a fashionable partnership that will always get me excited.

Tory Burch + FEED tote bags ($50) are available at holtrenfrew.com beginning April 30 and at Holt Renfrew locations across Canada beginning May 10.

This Works: Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque

Katherine Flemming, Associate Beauty & Fashion Editor — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:35:49 GMT

If I were to compare my favourite beauty products to the stuff that aids in post-baking kitchen cleanup, it would a little something like this. Steel wool is like my Clarisonic (deep scrubbing sans scratching), while LiquidPlumr paired with a heavy duty plunger (or a decent, real-life plumber) excavates crumbs like Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque does to build up dirt and oil in my pores.

Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque, $26.00 for 125ml

And just in time for Earth Day, the brand with apothecary roots and cult-like followings is releasing a limited-edition version of the creamy jarred version of this bestseller. The mask doesn't stink, never stings and leaves pores looking tremendously less disgusting (not saying they're eternally vanquished, people) and the shiny bits of my face looking noticeably more matte. I also find it pretty soothing, which is likely due to the (Canadian!) ingredient Bentonite, renowned for its ability to sooth and heal skin. With sweat-soaked days on the horizon, adding this to your beauty cabinet really can't hurt.

The purchase will sooth your conscience, too. One hundred per cent of the proceeds will benefit Evergreen, a not-for-profit group focused on sustainability throughout Canada.

Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque, $26.00 for 125ml; available at Kiehl's locations throughout Canada.

Blazin' style: Coloured toppers

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:22:42 GMT

Play it cool this season with a structured blazer found in an unexpected pop of colour. These hyper hued jackets can work with pretty much anything from a flirty floral dress to a formal sheath. Or match the bright blazer up with a cropped pair of chino's for the office, or go the gutsy route and wear it with a vibrant pair of jeans in a contrasting colour.

Our Favourite bright blazers — at every price point:

Vera Moda Nanna Blazer, The Bay, $59.
Talula Kent Blazer, Artizia, $89.
Schoolboy blazer in linene, J.Crew, $202.

Trend alert: Arm party diaries

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:13:46 GMT

I'm on my way to becoming a full fledged arm party aficionado. I just can't get enough of this accessory trend. I think my love for jam packed arms stems from my high-school days as a raver — click here for embrassing proof. I did a post on the subject last month and the response was tremendous, so clearly I'm not the only one who's addicted to cluttered wrists. I've decided to start a bi-weekly arm party diary.

This grouping is loosely inspired by thoughts of spring. I've gathered splashes of lime, fuschia and crisp white. I decided to keep chaos to a minimum by sticking with silver toned metals and then upped the glam factor with a hit of rhinestones, my favourite. Oh ya, then there's the thick band of black. I love the texture on the strap, and the unexpected darkness in the mix.

What I'm sporting today (from left to right):

TiffanyLocks Bangle
J.Crew rhinestone and thread bracelet
Lia Sophia bracelet
Brave Leather bracelet
J.Crew rhinestone ball and thread bracelet
Lia Sophia Bangle

Shopping: Hot workout gear

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 03:02:49 GMT

The whole yoga-pant look and I have never really got along. One of my biggest pet peeves is seeing women sporting head-to-toe Lululemon when they have not been or are not planning on working out. It just looks silly -- and sloppy. And don't even get me started on the yoga pant and UGG boot combo (so gross). But I digress. For years I'd forgo the cute workout clothes in protest. I'd sport an old tee, use a bikini top rather than a proper sports bra (I'm a 34A and it seemed like a good idea at the time -- it wasn't), and throw on my Nike leggings and my trusted Adidas sneakers.

Photography by Alvaro Goveia.

But my aversion to gym apparel changed in early February when I got a membership to The Yorkville Club. I've since been hitting the gym four to five days a week and I've slowly developed a taste for modern workout gear. My interest in fitness clothing has been inspired by the trend-loving women who frequent my gym. Most of them have money, some of them have taste and a few (yes, more than one) actually bring their Hermes Birkin bag to the elliptical machine to store their energy drinks and iPhones. Insanity, I know. But regardless, I felt like I needed to step up my game in the wardrobe department. Don't get me wrong, I'm still against yoga pants in a non-workout context, but there's some really cute stuff out there, and it actually helps you perform better – go figure!

Isis Henna Day Bra, $45.

Sports bra: I read somewhere that the perfect sports bra should perform like a good boyfriend. Meaning it should keep up with you when you're getting physical, hug you all over and give you unconditional support. So true. I was 25 years old before I purchased my first sports bra. I thought because I was petite in the breast department that I didn't need the extra support, but I was so wrong. Now I can't hit the gym without one. I recently found my perfect match with the Isis Henna Day Bra ($45). The seamless bra fits like a glove and the moisture-control band keeps me dry.

Gap Fit Mesh Tank, $27.

Tank top: I don't like to spend a ton of cash on gym tops -- a good bra and sneakers are far more important. I just want something that looks cute, is lightweight and helps wick away sweat. And this nylon and spandex mesh tank from Gap ($27) fits the bill. I already have it in three colours, but I'm coveting this cantaloupe hue.

Nike Pro Core Compression Pants, $50.

Perfect pants: Although these pants claim to be compression pants, they're not. But that's why I like them. Personally, I don't want to feel like I'm working out in a pair of Spanx. The Dri-FIT fabric is made up of 82 per cent polyester and 18 per cent spandex and it does an epic job at wicking away sweat. They always keep me dry and I never get any chafing. I also like the streamlined design: Clean and simple.

What's your favourite piece of activewear that helps you look great and perform like a pro at the gym?

Earth Day 2012: Buy one, plant one with Yves Rocher

Erin Lukas — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:00:18 GMT

I wouldn't normally consider Earth Day the perfect opportunity to stock up on my favourite beauty products, but this year it turns out I stand corrected.

Whether your beauty cabinet is running a little low or you’re just in the market for a new favourite lip colour for spring, for every Yves Rocher product sold during Earth Day weekend (April 21 and 22), the company will plant a tree in a region of the world that’s in need of some green.

Helping the world stay green doesn't have to stop after Earth Day. Yves Rocher is also launching the Vetiver from Haiti Revitalizing Shower Gel ($4), part of the customer-favourite Jardins du Monde collection. The shower gel (which is biodegradable) is available year round, and for every bottle sold a tree will be donated to support the Plant for the Planet Foundation, which has already planted over 18 million trees worldwide.

Yves Rocher Vetiver From Haiti Revitalizing Shower Gel, $4, yvesrocher.ca.

While I’d like to live a completely environmentally friendly lifestyle, I’m by no means at the top of the green-living class. So I like the idea that I can start helping the environment by simply buying my essential beauty products.

Spring trend alert: The lace dress

Erin Lukas — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:51:33 GMT

The motto for this spring is the brighter the better. But if you're like me, as much as you love vibrant hues you believe that there should be a healthy balance in your closet between bold colours and neutrals.

Ladylike and proper, the lace dress is having a moment this spring. It is a refreshing break from head-to-toe brights, and is perfect for days when you're not feeling so daring. This ivory dress from Zara is fit for the office or the weekend, and if you're still looking to add some colour to your outfit it's an ideal canvas for neon accessories.

White lace dress, $100, zara.com.

Rounding out my lacey picks are these two crushworthy pastel frocks from H&M and ASOS. Soft colours for spring aren’t exactly an exciting trend, but these pretty lace pastels are a dream pairing for warm weather.

Blush lace dress, $35, hm.com/ca.

Darling lace Amelia dress, $137, asos.com.

Dresses available at Zara, H&M and ASOS.

Guest post: Burt's Bees baby skin-care test drive

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 03:24:09 GMT

Whenever possible, I try to choose beauty products that are natural, free of chemicals and eco-certified – or at the very least I make sure I'm able to pronounce the ingredients without getting tongue-tied. A green beauty product junkie I am not, but I'm definitely working on cleaning up my beauty bag. Over the years I've learned a lot on the subject from Katherine and also from Jessica Ross, the former acting editor-in-chief at Homemakers magazine and current editorial specialist at Fresh Juice magazine. Jessica is currently on maternity leave, but last week her and her petite bébé made an appearance at our office.

Just before she left, the new Burt's Bees Baby Bee Multipurpose Ointment landed on Katherine's desk. It's free of all the usual (nasty) suspects – petroleum, phthalates, petrochemicals and parabens. Translation: Perfect for Jessica and her baby to test out.

By Jessica Ross

Imagine if it were up to someone else to look after your skin. My baby can't tell me where she's uncomfortable, or where it hurts. She's even too young to point. So my job is to anticipate her baby skin-care needs, to imagine how she feels and to take care of her the very best I can. Luckily she doesn't have baby eczema or other baby skin-care woes, and I intend to keep it that way.

Jessica's little one — striking a pose.

My wee one hardly needs anything applied to her soft, clear baby skin. After all, if it's not dry, don't moisturize it. But it's no surprise that wearing a diaper can do a number on a girl... you know, when she's done a number on a diaper. So when she needs a little protection – particularly at night when she may not get changed right away (I have to sleep sometime!) – I apply an ointment to her baby skin.

Given the safe-looking ingredients in Burt's Bees Baby Bee Multipurpose Ointment ($13), I thought I'd give it a try. The only item that I was unsure of was "fragrance," since I don't know what that consists of. I always screen the ingredients lists of any product I use for her very carefully using the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. Babies particularly need safe ingredients. Since they're so little, everything they come into contact with has a greater effect on them, and many things can affect their healthy development.

Burt's Bees Baby Bee Multipurpose Ointment, $13.

I liked the Baby Bee product's creamy smooth consistency. It spread easily, nice and thin, without feeling too greasy. I would use it as an alternative to petroleum jelly. The package says it can be used to moisturize anywhere. The only other area I might use it would be my baby's hands, if they get a bit dry from her gumming them. But unless her hands get really chapped I will avoid using products on them, however safe, because she would ingest some of that product. Since the Baby Bee product comes in pot format rather than a tube or pump, I'll be sure to only use it with just-washed hands, just in case I could contaminate it.

Do you find that your baby really needs any products for her tender, precious baby skin? What works best for you?

Burt's Bees Baby Bee Multipurpose Ointment ($13) is available at select natural, grocery, drug and mass retailers and via burtsbees.ca.

Guest post: Patterned pants

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:13:44 GMT

I've already gushed about bright denim on this blog – at length. It's become one of the biggest trends of 2012, by far, at least in my wardrobe. At first I kind of felt like I was back in elementary school when sporting vivid jeans, but now they've become staples. They're the best way to combat the basic-outfit blahs. The evolution of bright jeans is now moving into printed denim territory. Our newest intern in the style department, Lauren Day, shares her favourite picks.

By Lauren Day

After graduating from the Richard Ivey School of Business in 2011 I've recently started my stint at Canadian Living magazine in the Fashion and Beauty Department. I'm motivated by my family, fuelled by nights out with friends and inspired by all things pretty. Down the road I hope to blend my keen eye for fashion and beauty with my natural knack and know-how in business.

Now that spring has sprung I've been itching to retire my heavy knits and winter boots. 'Tis the season for a much-needed wardrobe face lift – and for that I'm turning to printed denim. We saw the emergence of patterned jeans late last year, from muted animal prints to tie-dyed denim. This time around the trend has got a bolder, more optimistic personality, featuring florals, pastels and graphic prints. My personal favourites (and trailblazers of this trend) come from brands such as Current/Elliott, J Brand and Citizens of Humanity. Incorporating printed denim into your closet can create a fashion-forward statement without having to splurge on a whole new outfit. Keep to slim cuts; and to avoid looking clownish, style these bottoms with a neutral understated top. For those of you who consider yourself to be more conservative, start with bright denims to wade yourself into the trend. Once you start to feel comfy with bright-colour bottoms, then try prints. Happy shopping!

Current/Elliott Polka-Dot Stiletto Crops, Anthropologie, $218.
Citizens of Humanity Mandy Natural Rose Jeans, Aritzia, $225.
Current/Elliott Floral Stiletto Skinny Jeans, Shopbop.com, $205.
MOTO Ditsy Floral Print Leigh Jeans, Topshop at The Bay, $72.
J Brand 835 Empress Floral Jeans, Aritzia, $255.

Beauty news: Butter London launches Queen Elizabeth–inspired nail polish

Erin Lukas — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 16:00:22 GMT

Since Kate Middleton got her own nail polish after her engagement announcement, it only seems fair that Her Majesty gets a shade of her own, too.

Butter London's Lillibet's Jubilee, $14, butterlondon.ca.

Just in time for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the celebration of her 60 years on the throne, Butter London has created this limited edition nail polish appropriately named Lillibet’s Jubilee. For those of you who don’t know, Lillibet was the Queen’s childhood nickname.

The lavender and grey metallic shade has just a hint of glitter, making it fit for her Royal Highness and loyal royal watchers alike. On this side of the pond, the polish also doubles as the perfect colour to help you transition your manicures into spring.

Long live the Queen, indeed.

Butter London Limited Edition Lillibet’s Jubilee, $14, available at butterlondon.ca.

Makeup trend: Orange lips

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 18:41:02 GMT

I've said it before and I'll say it again: I love and respect bright lipsticks, but they intimidate me. Especially anything in the orange family. Vibrant redish oranges are everywhere this season, and I'm determined to find a coral colour that will work for me.

Photography by Marek Szkudlarek

It's difficult to define coral — it can be anything from a rich melon to fire engine red. When I've sought out recommendations on how to pick the perfect orange lippie from makeup artists I usually get the same piece of advice: pick a coral with lots of pink in it. Why? Because I'm super pale, so it's a looks a little softer — aka, less clownish. The opposite is true for someone with a darker complexion, opt for a lipstick with more orange.

Some orangey options:

NARS Lipstick in Heat Wave, $30. Murale.com.
Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in Coral, $10, shoppersdrugmart.com.
Tom Ford Lipstick in True Coral, $52, Holt Renfrew.

We want to know: What are some of your favourite coral lipsticks?

Does organic hair colour really work?

Katherine Flemming, Associate Beauty & Fashion Editor — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 19:01:11 GMT

My experience with "natural" hair colour has two connections to the United Kingdom. The first time was in 1998, when I was visiting my cousins in Glasgow, Scotland. My cousin Katie offered the idea of colouring her hair and being the I'll-try-any-beauty-treatment-out-there person that I am, I happily hit up the local drugstore to make some selects. Three rounds of a cherry-coloured henna later (as IF our mothers would allow us to peruse the chemical colour aisle!), Katie's hair was still black as sticky tar. We reasoned that Katie's jet "Black Scot" hair was impervious to colour shifting and took off for a shopping trip to Marks & Sparks (Marks and Spencer, to be correct) instead. Here's a shot of Katie on the far left, myself on the far right. Sandwiched between us is my sister Vanessa. This was taken years later, when we met up in England for a wedding. Please excuse my tan—it was taken during one summer spent lifeguarding at a beach.

Cousin Katie, sister Vanessa in the middle and myself.

And it wasn't until earlier this year that I started thinking about "natural" hair colour again. I was lucky enough to visit Lymington, England in January of this year. A welcome respite from chilly Toronto, the charming seaside town also boasted the head office and laboratories of Herb UK, the manufacturers of Tints of Nature and Organic Colour Systems. The former is a mass-market haircare brand that includes hair colour, shampoos and treatments. Interestingly enough, it's only available in the natural foods section of grocery stores (for now, you can find it at Loblaw locations across the country) instead of the traditional hair colour aisle.

After all, hair colour is considering pretty low priority with health food stores globally. Why? It's the notion that granola types who make their own almond butter and recycle everything they use aren't likely to colour their hair, since they are so well aware of the necessity for chemicals to "process" their hair. And in a sense, they're right. You DO need chemicals. But you don't always need all of the nasty ones.

Tints of Nature Conditioning Permanent Colour, $19, at Loblaw locations and online at well.ca.

And honestly, I was really skeptical. I thought it would be Henna 2.0, this time with all my white striped-tee shirts nicely halo-ed with residual dye. And even when the Managing Director of the brand, Raoul Perfitt told me the dye will restore my hair's ph levels and make it feel softer after using it—I was still skeptical. (What? As a beauty editor I have to have a *bit* of a discerning eye!).

But...

I was wrong. First off, let me be clear—I didn't use the permanent. I used the demi-permanent (which hit shelves this month), which Raoul likened to "covering a lightbulb up with coloured cellophane"—essentially coating my hair for six to eight washes and dosing it with high-shine. I don't colour my hair, so loved the idea of not having to change the chemical structure of the hair while giving it a flash of colour.

The new packaging and range of shades from Tints of Nature.

But the permanent range worked for my PR companion very, very well. Her hair looked really shiny post-colour, and it also felt super soft. When we coloured our hair, we were also treated to a Tints of Nature Reconstructing Treatment before the colour was applied, but after we shampooed and conditioned. The brand carries that too (and can I just say I am obsessed with the sulfate-free shampoo? It's a strong contender for my next 'This Works' series).

So in conclusion, yes, you can treat your grey, boost your shade or give yourself some highlights. It's not like the pigment comes from beet juice or coffee grinds—there are some real chemicals in there, but the quality of their ingredients is safer and more gentle on your end. They contain 60 per cent active organic ingredients, and the sulfate-free shampoo is so gentle, you can use it as a face wash (many of the Herb UK employees do) and their conditioner works just as well as a hand cream.

My hair post Tints of Nature.

There's also no:

resourcinol
ammonia (that's where the nasty smell comes from)
parabens
propylene glycol
lowest level of PPDs possible (read more about them here)
gentle form of peroxide (necessary to lift your colour and achieve a bright blond)

But they've added some nice:

Vitamin C and E
Orange extract
Aloe extract
Grapefruit extract
Chamomile extract

All of the organic ingredients are certified by ECOCERT or the Soil Association Organic Standard, absolutely nothing is tested on animals. Packaging is recycled (and you can recycle it again).

I don't know about you, but that's a step in the right direction for me. In a category that's seen as an essential (more than mascara and concealer for some of you), it's comforting to know some brands are marrying safety and efficacy without stripping the fun out of beauty treatments. Because that's the best part, right?

Beauty trend alert: Blue mascara

Erin Lukas — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:00:31 GMT

Have you been feeling blue?

Stella McCartney Fall 2012, image via style.com.

There's no question that cobalt is the standout shade among spring’s sea of bright and bold colours – it's been seen on everything from jeans to handbags. Since the colour is making such an impact on spring fashion, it seems natural that the cool blue made an appearance on the models’ lashes at Stella McCartney’s fall/winter 2012 runway show in Paris.

As seen at McCartney, the electric blue liner makes the most impact – and is the most flattering – on an otherwise bare face, which means you don’t have to wait until fall to try out this trend since you won’t feel weighed down by heavy makeup on balmy spring days.

Sephora Collection Full Action Extreme Effect Mascara in 04 Blue, $18, sephora.com.

What I love about this runway beauty trend is how quick and easy it can be achieved at home. All you need is a bit of foundation or concealer to even out your skin tone and hide any blemishes, followed by a few swipes of a cobalt mascara, like this Sephora Collection one, and you'll have a standout look that works for day or night.

Would you try blue mascara?

Sephora Collection Full Action Extreme Effect Mascara in 04 Blue, $18, available at sephora.com.

Giveaway: Win a pair of tickets to the Green Living Show in Toronto

Erin Lukas — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:00:55 GMT

From April 13 to 15, 2012, the Green Living Show will transform Toronto's Direct Energy Centre into an eco-friendly mecca showcasing decor, health, fashion and food products and ideas that you can easily incorporate into your own lifestyle.

The Green Living Show, April 13 to 15, 2012, at the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto.

This year, in addition to showcasing a handpicked selection of the best green fashion and beauty products, the Green Living Show is amping up eco-fashion and eco-beauty with the Green Beauty Bar, where makeup artists will give show-goers makeup touch-ups and answer questions about green beauty products. They will also share trendy tips during five-minute demos happening at various times throughout the three days.

If a natural and sustainable beauty routine isn’t enough for you, shop the Eco Fashion Strip. And for some eco-chic style notes on how to get your wardrobe ready for spring, watch designer fair-trade and organic fashions take over the runway during the Eco Fashion Show on Sunday at 2 p.m.

Are you ready to get informed about the latest trends and products in eco-friendly fashion and beauty? To win one of 10 pairs of tickets to the Green Living Show, I want to know: Would you use eco-friendly beauty products?

Contest closes Tuesday April 3rd, 2012, at 12 p.m. (EST). You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada, in the Greater Toronto Area, and are of the age of majority in Ontario. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

CONTEST CLOSED: Congrats Jerri, Martine, Laura, Melissa, and Nina!

Backstage beauty: Greta Constantine

Julia McEwen, Senior Beauty & Fashion Editor — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 21:29:28 GMT

The designers behind Canadian label Greta Constantine – Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong – always kick off the start of Toronto Fashion Week. They consistently show off-site, usually at Toronto hot spots and always far from the hustle and bustle of TFW. For their fall/winter 2012 collection they chose the freshly renovated Arcadian Court in the Simpson Tower on Bay Street. Gorgeous, BTW.

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Professionnel.

The show was stunning. Some of the duo's best work yet, in my opinion. They had a theme and they stuck to it: "A woman scorned." We saw a mix of stiffness and softness throughout the collection. It had a few hits of colour, such as cobalt, red, magenta and emerald, but the major colour story was black. They did plenty of their signature drapery, but also introduced a lot of fitted tailoring and stiffness to the collection.

Yes, it's true, I loved the garments – but I fell just as hard for the hair and makeup. It played a much bigger role than just the "supporting cast." It brought the designers' theme to life.

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Professionnel.

Lead artist: Daniel Fiorio for L’Oréal Professionnel, owner of Salon Daniel Spa.
Inspiration: "We wanted the hair to reflect like the silky-smooth feeling and look of draped jersey," says Fiorio, which is what the Greta Constantine design duo are best known for.
The look: The style, "is not common or soft, it's architectural," explains Fiorio. To start, the whole head was sprayed with a hefty dose of L’Oréal Professionnel Texture Expert Fresh Dust (which made its debut at the fashion show). He then shaped the hair by pinning it into a super-sleek ponytail. A section at the front of the hairline was left unsecured, back-combed and pinned into place to hide the ponytail. Everything was secured down with a whole lotta L’Oréal Professionnel Infinium Lumière.

Hair products used:

L’Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil.
L’Oréal Professionnel Texture Expert Fresh Dust.
L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.art Metallic Gloss.
L’Oréal Professionnel Infinium Lumière.

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Professionnel.

Lead artist: Melissa Gibson, M.A.C Cosmetics senior artist
Inspiration: Sinister beauty was the idea behind this not-so-average makeup look. "I'm creating an army of beautiful soldiers," says Gibson. "It's a strange kind of beautiful, almost alien-like," she adds.
The look: It was all about the eyes. Gibson blocked out the models' eyebrows, "so you don't know if they're happy, sad or just angry," she says. Next, a dark shadow was used to create the black butterfly winged effect, and the inner and outer corners of the eyes were lined with a golden pigment. The colour combo "gives the eye an intense soft futuristic look," says Gibson.

Eye products used:

M∙A∙C Fluidline in Blacktrack, $18
M∙A∙C Pigment in Old Gold, $24
M∙A∙C Studio Fix Lash, $18
Brows blocked with Pros-Aide

We have more backstage beauty looks still to come from Toronto Fashion Week!

Giveaway: RapidLash

Katherine Flemming, Associate Beauty & Fashion Editor — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 18:42:57 GMT

Want to win your very own tube of RapidLash? We are giving away five tubes to the best readers in the world!

RapidLash, $60

Trust me, you do. Why? It works. There's really no way around that. I suffered some serious lash breakage after quitting lash extensions, I willingly started applying anything that could patch things up—and sure enough, my lashes regained their fluttery length in no time (well, probably three weeks or so if I'm being realistic). I've seen zero irritation and application is easy as pie—just swipe the fine-tipped brush along your top and bottom lashes before bed. I've noticed really extreme results on my bottom lashes as well.

To win, leave a comment below answering the following question: what's your favourite mascara?

Contest closes Tuesday, March 27th, 2012, at 2 p.m. (EST). You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada and are of the age of majority in the province/territory you live in. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

CONTEST CLOSED: Congratulations Elaine D, Julie P, Pam, Allison Davis and Debbie!

This Works: Olay Total Effects Line and Dark Circle Minimizing Brush

Katherine Flemming, Associate Beauty & Fashion Editor — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 20:45:21 GMT

Welcome to the first installment of This Works: a teeny roundup of a product I'm currently using and feel like I need to share. Because I know there's nothing more frustrating than shelling out big bucks for a product that doesn't deliver. It's similar to when you spend money and time (very precise, focused, trash-your-kitchen-kind-of-time) on baking and then pull a steaming pan of black rocks out of a steaming oven. Which is why I feel like I need to share.

Olay Total Effects Line & Dark Circle Minimizing Brush, $30

And this, dear readers, is no waste of time. As someone who is constantly plagued by dark circles regardless of how little sleep or how much sushi I consume, I'm always mainlining eye creams and concealers. Lately, I'm into the Olay Total Effects Line & Dark Circle Minimizing Brush, for a few reasons.

1) The applicator is GENIUS. A gentle, oversize brush that doesn't require finger padding or excess tugging on the delicate skin around the eyes. The click-click formula mechanism is also fun to use.

2) The shade is just enough that it blends with my skin while covering up the darkness and not giving me the reverse panda look. You can also layer (which is more of a security thing for me) without looking like you piled it on.

3) It hydrates without leaving a greasy film. Which, if you're a mascara or liner user...you know why this is key.

4) While I normally like a tacky-feeling concealer, I'm really enjoying the water-like texture of this one, which makes #1 a whole lot easier.

5) The bonus skincare element: knowing that it hydrates skin while treating puffiness and wrinkles makes me feel less guilty about skipping my eye cream.

Olay Total Effects Line & Dark Circle Minimizing Brush is $29.99 and available at drugstores and mass-market retailers across the country.