Frank Gehry

Here is yet another incredible architect.

Frank Gehry is a Canadian-American architect. Much of his work falls under the category of "deconstructivism." This type of architecture has no rules, no boundaries and no limits. His work is non traditional and gives the impression of being unfinished.

Some of his most famous works include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, in Los Angeles, the Dancing House in Prague, and Experience Music Project in Seattle.

Gehry is considered a modern architectural icon and celebrity - a "Starchitect." This term typically refers to architects known for their dramatic, influential designs which often achieve fame and notoriety through their spectacular works.

I have put together a small collection of some of his works. What do you think about Gehry's talent?

Singapore's Green Roof Art School

If your school looked like this, wouldn't you want to go every day?! I sure would.

The school of Art, Design & Media at Nanyang Technological University campus is located in Singapore. It is a 5 storey building completed in 2006.

The premise and key feature of this building is its transparency and connectivity to nature. Internal glass walls help enhance the flow of the building, allowing you to see through rooms. You can walk right outside onto the green rooftops of the building and still feel like you never went inside!

Lights are built into the roof, so at night people can see inside the building and watch what goes on in the art school after hours.

Now why do we not have schools like this around here? Yes, I know we don't have weather like they do in Singapore but still, Canada can be creative!

I think cool designs like this can really help to inspire students and teachers, within their academic environment. Look at what is surrounding you?! How can you not be amazed and really appreciate the natural things around you in a place like this?

According to the master plan for this area of Singapore, this section of land was meant to be left as a "green area." In order to be in line with its original plan, the architect carved into the land within the natural constraints that the valley allowed. As a result, the architect allowed the existing landscape to play a critical role in creating the building. This is the definition of a "non" building.

As far as architectural design has come, it really speaks to how creative expression has evolved. In my opinion, to have a vision and make it a reality is without a doubt one of the most rewarding things for a creative mind.

Miss Artiste

One thing I was never very good at is Art. In elementary school, high school - whether it was drawing, painting, shading, carving, and overall creativeness....I just did not have the talent. That is one thing I have always admired about my sister - she's soooooooo artistic. Since we were kids, she had such a talent for art, and I will be honest - I always made her do my art assignments for me in school. So a big thank you Claudia!

Anyways, I thought I would take the time to showcase some of her work! The great thing about art is that it is so expressive and can really give you a sense of the artist who painted it, or the sculptor who moulded it. Every piece of work tells a different story and conveys a different message.

Her work is ALL over our house and she never fails to amaze me. So look out in a gallery near you for her work! In the mean time, tell me what you think about some of her work!!

Guess what's coming back....

That's right....its OVERALLS!!! aka Dungarees for those fashionistas out there. Who knew we would actually see this "farmer-esque" piece of clothing would ever come back in style.

Designers such as Ralph Lauren, Jean Paul Gaultier and Roberto Cavalli bring overalls to their 2010 collections...and who knew - the overall could actually look pretty goood?! Leave it to Gaultier to re-work the overall, and make them with a conical bra - he is so fabulous.

I had a pair of overalls when I was .....umm 7? maybe I should have kept them? or not.

The fact of the matter is, there IS a lot one can do with the dunagree - wear it with a flouncy blouse, a blazer and some heels, with a lumberjack shirt, or sport the silky satin ones with a sheer blouse and spectacular clutch. There are so many ways one can make this work.

I don't think I will be taking the plunge by sporting the overalls this season - there are so many other trends I could see myself pulling off over this one!

Let's talk local for a minute..

YES, I know....its been a while since my last post.. and to be completely honest, the reason is that I have just been feeling a little bit un-inspired. Worry not my friends, I think I've found some inspiration.

I know I refer a lot to Europe...it's just because really - how can anyone NOT be inspired and in awe of the incredible history, architecture, authenticity and overall amazing-ness of Europe. Mind you, I have not been everywhere...but I plan on it - - one day.

Anyways, I was thinking - what interests me about where I live? Thinking....thinking......not a whole lot. One place I do love is the city of Toronto. Why? Because there is so much to do, there is always something going on...and there is something for just about anybody down there.

So, I was doing a little research and came across this new building to be put up in Toronto. We have seen a wave of some new, modern architecture in Toronto recently - including OCAD, and the redesigned ROM building. I find modern architecture quite interesting because although there may be simple lines, and at times minimalistic structures - the product is always so interesting. You could tell a lot of stories with some of these new designs, and they can be quite unpredictable.

British architect, Will Alsop designed the new Filmport Complex for Toronto. It is going to be one of the largest film studios in North America. As you can see, the building is a massive arc - and "curves as it rises." Pretty cool..and interesting idea. Nice to see some new buildings which not only create more visual interest in the city, but foster creative talent.

Thoughts? ...

Travel!

Here is a small glimpse of some of my travels this past summer. This video takes you through Venice, Italy and Southern France. They are just a couple examples of some of the beautiful places I have been in Europe. I took all the pics myself!

One of the most amazing things about traveling is the experience and freedom. This video features Jill Scott's "Golden" - a song about taking your freedom and experiencing life - - One thing we should all do.....Live life like it's GOLDEN.

COCO Chanel

"In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different."

This weekend I watched the movie "COCO avant Chanel." It is the story of Gabrielle (aka Coco - a nickname given to her by her father) and her life before she became one the most legendary style and fashion icons...well, ever. Her humble beginnings started in France. She was an orphan and worked as a seamstress/ singer to make money. She had always dreamed of going to Paris one day and making it big. She met a rich and well connected man, who eventually grew to love and admire her for her elegance and daring look. At a time where women wore feathers and large, extravagant hats to display their status, Coco always opted for a more simplistic and tailored look. She would cut up men's clothing and add pieces to a dress for a feminine touch. She constructed simple straw hats, which eluded to mystery rather than exuberance. Her daring sense of style portrayed such elegance, and rather than "letting it all hang out" she covered it up, leaving a lot more to the imagination for men. Her rebellion against mainstream "women's wear" is admirable to say the least. I would definitely recommend this movie, if not for Coco's incredible story, then for inspiration.

"A girl should be two things: Classy and Fabulous." - Coco Chanel.

A Beautiful Work In Progress

I am going to switch directions a little bit and talk about design. Not design like the clothes you and I wear, but design like art and architecture. Design encompasses so many things, but this post is about architecture in particular. On my recent trip to Europe this past summer, one of my favourite stops was Barcelona. Have you ever seen Antoni Gaudi's work in real life? If you haven't, let me tell you - you are missing out. His infamous Sagrada Familia church is one of the most incredible churches I have ever seen. Construction started in 1882 and it has taken over 100 years to construct (it still isn't done!), and Gaudi tragically died in 1926 before he could finish it. His work is some of the most unique, and you can see the contrast in design when you walk from one side of the temple to the other. A photo doesn't even do it justice, but tell me what you think. AND, if you ever go to Barcelona...you HAVE to see the Sagrada Familia.

John Galliano

I Think this man is one of my all time favourites...
Born in Gibraltar, John Galliano grew up in London and launched his own label before becoming head designer of France's couture flagship, Christian Dior.
Galliano tells a magical tale with every collection. He has brought a totally new vision to Dior and continues to make history with his creativity and enchanting designs.

He uses the world as his muse and never seems to run out of new ideas for his collections.

"CURIOSITY: Is the most important thing" - John Galliano

Viktor & Rolf 2010 Collection

SOO.....I was sitting at home watching Fashion Television and the new V&R collection was on. My mom came to join me on the couch and couldn't help but notice the "ridiculous" clothing (her words not mine). Anyways, she went on to comment "WHY do they make these clothes if you can't even wear them on the street in everyday life?"
That is totally not the point of these fashion shows! I think a fashion show is like an escape from reality - especially ones like this! The amount of creativity and imagination it takes to create new and innovative designs all the time is sooo admirable to me.
Anyways, I think this is an incredible collection! The silhouettes are amazing and the creative vision of this duo is just "ridiculous."

What do you think?

MMMM Menswear..

How amazing does a man look in a suit?

There have been so many influences affecting men's suits over the past 150 years. However, there are some universal rules about suit selection, so listen up guys!!

1) Fit is everything

A nice suit alone can either make you stand out in a crowd, or make you blend in. So what is the difference between an OK jacket and an incredible one? one word: TAILOR. An off the rack jacket will not fit your arms perfectly, or make you look like a million bucks - tailoring it to fit your body perfectly will! So, take the time to alter your suits, it is worth it!

2) Cloth weight matters

If you want your suit to keep its shape, and still look good after wearing, the cloth needs to hold a certain weight. The weight of the cloth also contributes to the sophistication, construction and overall look of the suit. Depending on your personal preference and what you are looking for, an 8-ounce to 12-ounce cloth is great. Lining is also very important.

3) There is a suit out there for every man!

There are so many options!!

A jacket can be single, or double breasted. It can have one lapel, two lapels, and anywhere from 1 to 10 buttons.

Trousers can be narrow, wide, pleated, or baggy. They can have slanted pockets, no pockets or a belt.

So, the important point to take away here: blend the elements that are right for your body shape. Think about where you are going to wear the suit and find yourself a really great tailor!

4) Less is more!

Just like with ladies fashion, less is more (tastefully of course). It is important not to overdo it!

Subtlety is key.

One more thing guys, do not forget your swagger. Be confident - it will help carry you in your suit and make the eyes in the room look right at you.

VIVE Magazine!

University of Toronto's VIVE Magazine is based on fashion! It highlights trends, local talent, and incredible designers. My sister is in the mag as one of the featured artists. It is only a small taste of her incredible talent. Take a look!

http://vivemagazine.ca/issues

PS: recognize the model on the back cover? this is one of my sister's photographs...featuring, yours truly.

Alexander the Great!

Alexander McQueen...one of the greatest artistic minds in fashion...in my opinion. His sense of imagination and fantasy exceeds conventional design. Check out his latest collection...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvWyK-llPlA

His shoe designs were featured in Lady Gaga's video for "Bad Romance" LOVE HER!!

The Little Black Dress

How long has the LBD been considered a staple in any woman's closet? For as long as I can remember.
This wardrobe essential has resonated across many trends and creative eras.
Will it ever fade? I don't think so....THOUGHTS?

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog! I will share stories and opinions about fashion and design.
I will comment on collections or designs I love and any other random thoughts. ENJOY!