(Both by Charles Anastase)
... I'd collect fashion illustration for real. What I currently collect are from magazine cut outs and the occasional book.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
If I Were a Rich Girl...
(Both by Charles Anastase)
... I'd collect fashion illustration for real. What I currently collect are from magazine cut outs and the occasional book.
Fom Runway to Editorial (and possibly your knitting basket)
(Left: Balenciaga FW06 Right: Kate Hudson in the outfit for Vogue)
Check it out on Style.com, Kate Hudson featured on the cover of Vogue. As impressive as it looks cables and bobble are easy to do. Check out this video from StitchCraft to learn how to bobble if you'haven't learnt it yet. BTW, Kate is a knitter who is knwown to pop by Purl in New York City.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Playing House
(Left: Cozy, by Janet Morton, Wards Island, Toronto (1999) via Right: Knitting Site, London, UK via)
It's fascinating to see how knitting has been adapted for purposes other than a sweater. And it's become more talked about in general. For example, occasionally on the CBC, I would hear a story about knitting. I hope to see knitting become something as common as golf or gourmet cooking. I would also like to point out that Canada's craft chain store is going down. Yet the boutique craft suppliers seems to be thriving. What is this saying about the relationship between craft and society? I think eventually we will be coining the term "luxury craft".
DIY DVF
(As sold on Net-aPorter.com, this Diane Von Fusternberg crochet skirt goes for $320 US)
This DVF crochet suit, is something you can DIY. There is something strikingly similar in the current Spring 2006 Vogue Knitting in the "Roman Holiday" spread. Sorry I have no photo or page ref.
Update: The awesome has Natalie sent in a scan from VK. It's on page 66 for anyone who wants it.
High Style, Low Budget: How-To According to Finney
Kathyn Finney certainly knows how it is to be a fashionist. She spent the early adulthood being broke, but no doubt a fashioniable. In her book, How to be a Budget Fashionists, she makes the distinction that a fashionista is someone whose style is dependent on the current fashion declared by Vogue, but someone who is in tremendous debt from shopping at Neiman's. As a budget fashionista, you would be wearing what you love, and maintaining a balanced checkbook. In her comprehensive guide, her first mandate is to go over your finances first before even thinking about shopping. She goes over options on how to raise enough cash to go shopping with, and tips on knowing what to buy that will flatter your figure best. She strongly encourages a helthy financial state, so that you can continue to dress in style in the long term sense. Her book is quite clever, she points out that if you got rid of your cable, you could, in fact afford a pair of Louboutin snadals at a Last Call sale. So while your budget may be compromised, you style doesn't have to be. Finney write in a casual manner, making it a fun summer read
My personal expereicne as a "budget fashionista":
I rarely pay full price for anything. My belief is that if it hasn't sold out within a week, it will be on sale, you just have to be patient and keep checking back until you get it at a price you want.
Just to make my point, here's what I'm wearing today (note dollars in Canadian) : light blue ruffled cotton dress shirt worn open and tied from Joe (on clearnace at $12 from $17, but I paid nothing, how? I used my PC points!), paper-thin t-shirt from Club Monaco ($9 down frorm $19), cream textured cotton pencil skirt ($39 down from $89), wedged platform sandals from Sam and Libby, made in Italy bought at Winners ($50 down from whatever regualr price not known), Dooney and Burke leather baguette ($90 down from $250!). Did I make my point? You can live stylishy on a low budget.
I also wanted to point out that I recently got a damm cool digital watch from Cardinal at the Bay. I have searched fro months for a watch like this: digital, square/rectangle face, plain black strap, streamlined and smart design, metal hardware and useful functions such as alarm, timer, stopwatch, night light, and even dual time (good for travel), and unisex (because most digital watches are designed for men only). I got all this in a Cardinal for $38 down from $50! I was actually prepared to pay close to $100 if that was what it was going to take to get what I wanted. The notion that you must pay more to get what you want is untrue. I looked at all the designer watches, they were too chunky, uncomfortable, hard to read, too heavy, and unpractical and without the cool functions I mentioned above. I even sent a note to Cardinal to tell them how pleased I was with the watch and they actually wrote back and sent me a nifty key chain with flash light! It can actually pays to give them your feedback!
My personal expereicne as a "budget fashionista":
I rarely pay full price for anything. My belief is that if it hasn't sold out within a week, it will be on sale, you just have to be patient and keep checking back until you get it at a price you want.
Just to make my point, here's what I'm wearing today (note dollars in Canadian) : light blue ruffled cotton dress shirt worn open and tied from Joe (on clearnace at $12 from $17, but I paid nothing, how? I used my PC points!), paper-thin t-shirt from Club Monaco ($9 down frorm $19), cream textured cotton pencil skirt ($39 down from $89), wedged platform sandals from Sam and Libby, made in Italy bought at Winners ($50 down from whatever regualr price not known), Dooney and Burke leather baguette ($90 down from $250!). Did I make my point? You can live stylishy on a low budget.
I also wanted to point out that I recently got a damm cool digital watch from Cardinal at the Bay. I have searched fro months for a watch like this: digital, square/rectangle face, plain black strap, streamlined and smart design, metal hardware and useful functions such as alarm, timer, stopwatch, night light, and even dual time (good for travel), and unisex (because most digital watches are designed for men only). I got all this in a Cardinal for $38 down from $50! I was actually prepared to pay close to $100 if that was what it was going to take to get what I wanted. The notion that you must pay more to get what you want is untrue. I looked at all the designer watches, they were too chunky, uncomfortable, hard to read, too heavy, and unpractical and without the cool functions I mentioned above. I even sent a note to Cardinal to tell them how pleased I was with the watch and they actually wrote back and sent me a nifty key chain with flash light! It can actually pays to give them your feedback!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Black Crochet
(Left: Celine SS06. Right: Chanel SS06)
As much as I'd love to hit the beach right about now, the work has to come first. Oh well, I can at least feel the mood (Francoise Hardy on my iTunes, I'm thinking French Riviera). I love these crochet cover ups. Check out my favorite summer movie, Two for the Road, starring Audrey Hepburn. The movie's concept is pretty forward thinking for something from the 60's.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Top Ten Business Tips for a Newbie
I'm pretty stressed out right now, but it's been a big learning experience the past week. I have some thoughts on business I'd like to share and remind myself later on. So here goes, in no particular order, mind you, they ALL important.
1. Be Prepared. You may think you are, often times there may be things you overlooked. Go over everything in your head until it makes total sense to the customer. Ask yourself what is the buyer going to ask me? How would I answer?
2. Divide and Conquer. You may be able to do everything at first and you begin to think that you don't need the help, but you do! Especially control freaks like me, it's hard to let go and let others help. Keep a list of people you know who have the skills that would meet your expectations. And when it's time, surround yourself with them. This will be especially helpful in emergencies such as too many orders to fill or your current contractor has fallen sick.
3. Time is your enemy. You may think you could spare time to do things the long way instead of spending more time to develop a shorter one. But it's worth it, do it early. When push comes to shove, you'll be glad you took the time. Figure out the most efficient method and try to get it right the first time.
4. Plan B. You always have to think ahead and prepare for failure. What would you do? Decide on a plan to salvage what you can should the worst happen. Be glad if the worst doesn't happen.
5. Do your homework. I can't stress this enough. Often you may think you have the edge over your competitors, but you need to be on target, especially if you're new. As soon as you think you know enough, review the information and what new developments they may have.
6. Remain Calm. Don't let yourself get overwhelmed, this will prevent you from being productive, or worse, your hair will fall out! Nobody's perfect, and that' ok. You're allowed to give yourself a minute to cry of take out your frustrations, but bounce back fast.
7. Ask and Ye Shall Receive. Don't be stuck up and act as if you know everything. Find the poeple who will be your advocates and ask them for advice. They may understand a point of view that you don't experience, so the more you can get, the better. You'll be surprised how much people want to help you, if you'll just ask! The people who have given me advice, you know who you are. I love you all so much!
8. Thunder-Stealers Beware. You know you have a good thing when people are sending you emails to be your business partner. You'd be surprised how gutsy people are to write these strange emails. Just press "delete". Update: I want to make clearifications about this. There may be people who sincerely wish to help you, just be careful who you let in. Likely if what they're saying sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
9. Network it, Baby. You must keep your business cards on you at times when you leave the house.You never know who you might meet. This is so important. Make sure it looks professional. You don't have to spend a lot of money on it, but make it neat and clean. It's literally your calling card and can make or break your first impression.
10. Get Back to Work. You're your own boss now, but you better be disciplined. Don't procrastinate. You'll be sorry if you do. Success wil depend on your own merits, and there's no boss to tell you how to do things. You'll have to think for yourself. Take advice, but make your own decisions.
I miss reading everyone's blogs! Realistically, I probably won't be posting as often as I used to, but I'll post if something catches my eye. Those who are looking for PR, please don't bother unless you really think I would want to write about you. And I won't be joining any blog networks. So please stop.
1. Be Prepared. You may think you are, often times there may be things you overlooked. Go over everything in your head until it makes total sense to the customer. Ask yourself what is the buyer going to ask me? How would I answer?
2. Divide and Conquer. You may be able to do everything at first and you begin to think that you don't need the help, but you do! Especially control freaks like me, it's hard to let go and let others help. Keep a list of people you know who have the skills that would meet your expectations. And when it's time, surround yourself with them. This will be especially helpful in emergencies such as too many orders to fill or your current contractor has fallen sick.
3. Time is your enemy. You may think you could spare time to do things the long way instead of spending more time to develop a shorter one. But it's worth it, do it early. When push comes to shove, you'll be glad you took the time. Figure out the most efficient method and try to get it right the first time.
4. Plan B. You always have to think ahead and prepare for failure. What would you do? Decide on a plan to salvage what you can should the worst happen. Be glad if the worst doesn't happen.
5. Do your homework. I can't stress this enough. Often you may think you have the edge over your competitors, but you need to be on target, especially if you're new. As soon as you think you know enough, review the information and what new developments they may have.
6. Remain Calm. Don't let yourself get overwhelmed, this will prevent you from being productive, or worse, your hair will fall out! Nobody's perfect, and that' ok. You're allowed to give yourself a minute to cry of take out your frustrations, but bounce back fast.
7. Ask and Ye Shall Receive. Don't be stuck up and act as if you know everything. Find the poeple who will be your advocates and ask them for advice. They may understand a point of view that you don't experience, so the more you can get, the better. You'll be surprised how much people want to help you, if you'll just ask! The people who have given me advice, you know who you are. I love you all so much!
8. Thunder-Stealers Beware. You know you have a good thing when people are sending you emails to be your business partner. You'd be surprised how gutsy people are to write these strange emails. Just press "delete". Update: I want to make clearifications about this. There may be people who sincerely wish to help you, just be careful who you let in. Likely if what they're saying sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
9. Network it, Baby. You must keep your business cards on you at times when you leave the house.You never know who you might meet. This is so important. Make sure it looks professional. You don't have to spend a lot of money on it, but make it neat and clean. It's literally your calling card and can make or break your first impression.
10. Get Back to Work. You're your own boss now, but you better be disciplined. Don't procrastinate. You'll be sorry if you do. Success wil depend on your own merits, and there's no boss to tell you how to do things. You'll have to think for yourself. Take advice, but make your own decisions.
I miss reading everyone's blogs! Realistically, I probably won't be posting as often as I used to, but I'll post if something catches my eye. Those who are looking for PR, please don't bother unless you really think I would want to write about you. And I won't be joining any blog networks. So please stop.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Trade Show Hangover
Apologies for not writing lately. I was away this weekend at trade show as an exhibitor. It was my first time. Everyone always says, wow, that' exciting. I don't think it is when you're an exhibitor. The excitement wears off about an hour. Being trapped in a booth all day, watching people walk right past you without a glance, and rude non-customers (Customer: I already have an alpaca vender. Before I can say anything, she leaves. Do I look like a dirty car salesman to be wary of? Where are the manners?) But there were some exciting times.
Teva Durham of Loop-D-Loop came to my booth! She was so kind, and from afar, I noticed she was one of the most well dressed people at this show. She wore an apple green sweater of her own design, a floral print skirt and platform wedges. She looked great! When she told me who she was, I was like wow, and didn't know what to say. I wanted to ask for an autograph, but I wanted to remain professional. I also want to send a shout out to Cecily Keim, who is a crochet designer and was so cool to stop by the booth and talk to me with such enthusiasm.
I met the infamous Yahaira of PureKnits and Knit Royalty, Stefanie of Glampyre! We caught up after the show that day for dinner and drinks. I had such a blast with them. I think we get along famously.
So will I show again next year? I'm not sure yet. I think I'll have to see how the current product line sells, and if I have a new product to show, I might. I barely got an order, a lot of promises, but they never came back to place an order. Everyone says they love the colors, the display and they think I will sell alot, but if the person saying that isn't buying, then that's not a lot at all. That's ok, this was a good learning experience. I have more tricks on my sleeve that I hope will set me apart from the others.
Teva Durham of Loop-D-Loop came to my booth! She was so kind, and from afar, I noticed she was one of the most well dressed people at this show. She wore an apple green sweater of her own design, a floral print skirt and platform wedges. She looked great! When she told me who she was, I was like wow, and didn't know what to say. I wanted to ask for an autograph, but I wanted to remain professional. I also want to send a shout out to Cecily Keim, who is a crochet designer and was so cool to stop by the booth and talk to me with such enthusiasm.
I met the infamous Yahaira of PureKnits and Knit Royalty, Stefanie of Glampyre! We caught up after the show that day for dinner and drinks. I had such a blast with them. I think we get along famously.
So will I show again next year? I'm not sure yet. I think I'll have to see how the current product line sells, and if I have a new product to show, I might. I barely got an order, a lot of promises, but they never came back to place an order. Everyone says they love the colors, the display and they think I will sell alot, but if the person saying that isn't buying, then that's not a lot at all. That's ok, this was a good learning experience. I have more tricks on my sleeve that I hope will set me apart from the others.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Marc Jacobs as brand and business model
(Left: Marc Jacobs Men store in LA, Right: MJ logo yukata with obi, I want one via)
Think Globally, Act Locally. That is what I was taught in school. It's important to keep that in mind when doing business internationally. Marc Jacobs is a perfect example of that. I love how every Marc Jacobs store looks distinctively different. And when it comes to the Japanese market, they adapt to local culture, their own website and designer yukatas!
Making Things meets FInal Fashion
I didn't have time to mention that last week I got to meet Danielle of Final Fashion! What a bright young thing! (though I think we're the same age). I would have loved to have her as a classmate in design school. She offers such interesting conversation. We talked about the identity of Canadian fashion, which has yet to be defined, work prospects, and the state of fashion in general (it's not a stable business, even if you are Jil Sander, Roland Mouret or Helmut Lang).
Notes on what I thought about Candian fashion and additonal thoughts
In relationship of only what I know in Toronto, we struggle to find a distinctive identity and feel proud of it. We're pretending, or rather, copying whatever American Vogue puts out, and a poor copy of it at that. I recall a total knock off of a Vogue photo shoot in last month's Flare issue. Why? If you can't make it better than the original, don't copy! But another thing I notice, it has to do with cultural values. Canadians love to get the most value at the lowest price possible. We're just smart and demanding that way. We want our YSL on sale, we don't like to pay the full price. That makes it difficult for new designers to sell. And we have to try to match up with the American television shows by getting our own version, like Canada's Next Top Model. Wasn't thrilled witht eh judge selections. Why couldn't they get a fashion photographer to be a judge? Instead they got a hair dresser. Anyways, I don't think hyping up Candadian Fashion Week is helpful, though we should be supportive, where's the criticism? Not even Pat Field gets away with it in NY.
Notes on what I thought about Candian fashion and additonal thoughts
In relationship of only what I know in Toronto, we struggle to find a distinctive identity and feel proud of it. We're pretending, or rather, copying whatever American Vogue puts out, and a poor copy of it at that. I recall a total knock off of a Vogue photo shoot in last month's Flare issue. Why? If you can't make it better than the original, don't copy! But another thing I notice, it has to do with cultural values. Canadians love to get the most value at the lowest price possible. We're just smart and demanding that way. We want our YSL on sale, we don't like to pay the full price. That makes it difficult for new designers to sell. And we have to try to match up with the American television shows by getting our own version, like Canada's Next Top Model. Wasn't thrilled witht eh judge selections. Why couldn't they get a fashion photographer to be a judge? Instead they got a hair dresser. Anyways, I don't think hyping up Candadian Fashion Week is helpful, though we should be supportive, where's the criticism? Not even Pat Field gets away with it in NY.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Your Hands Work Hard, So Treat 'em Right
(Left: Kiehl's Ultra Strength Hand Salve, Right: Burt's Bees Hand Salve)
Both products above I recommande for dried-out hands whther from crafting 'til you drop or after many loads of laundry.
Fable Update
Like I told you earlier, it's been super busy. I'm getting ready for the trade show coming up end of next week. I't smy first time being there, so I'm not sure what to expect. Things like, what do I wear? I hear Debbie Bliss opts for a Martha Stewart power suit, I need something like that, only cooler and younger. I spent Friday at the mall looking for something new to add to what I have in the realm of business appropriate clothing. Let me just say that a well made blazer under $100 is a hard find. I think I'll save up for something in a higher price range when I do make some money back! I ended up only getting a a textured cream pencil skirt, which seems to go with just about everything.
Haley of Knitomatic gave the new colors such a rave review. Her store is the first to carry the new colors, so Toronto knitters head over to Knitomatic!
I spent of all today cleaning my room. I am... regretfully, a total pack-rat. I have so much stuff I collected over the years, mainly junk tucked away away in a closet or drawer. I finally got rid of quite a bit today, but it's only a start. If I did a complete overhaul, it'd take forever. Planning to bid farewell to my old magazines. It'll be hard, but they do take uo too much space. I've pretty much stopped buying magazines. I wish magazine would go digital.
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