Fred Peppy Serves Up Canada

The famous UK tennis brand that first started making clothes in 1934 opened its first North American boutique on the trendy Queen West. Now that Lacoste is available everywhere and seemingly anywhere, Fred Perry is an excellent choice for the fashion conscience who doesn't want to look like everyone else. The choice of location is perfect; as the large chains push further west down Queen threatening the retail space for the independents, Fred Perry is a perfect fusion anchor. This is the hip brand with just enough market penetration to have staying power. Drop in to Fred Perry at 934 Queen West and get served today.

Windy Wear

As we have finally come to accept here at FABRIC, fall has befallen us and brought the windy and cool weather with it. As many of you have noticed, it's time to bust out your fall and winter wear and here at FABRIC we've always believed that when the cool weather hits, it doesn't really matter what you're wearing underneath, as long as you have a fabulous coat on! While some may call this fashion laziness, we maintain that it is sheer style ingenuity.

This season, transition with those booties by pairing them with great trench coat (we think khaki is a classic), or spice up your girly threads with a tough chick leather jacket. Plaid is way hot this season, so keep your eyes peeled for plaid wool and cashmere coats, especially in nutty colours and deep blues and greens. The cape has made a serious comeback, as seen on Posh Spice and Nicole Ricci, and we suggest opting for a cape in one of the fruity colours of the season (cranberry, for example) instead of a simple black to steer clear from the Count Dracula look. We're loving white coats right now for a fresh, crisp, Mod feel. Look for a new empire-waist coat or something a little lengthier than you would usually go for - Talula Babaton makes lovely fitted warm wool/cashmere coats. Whether you're sloshing around in UGGS or out for a night in town in your favourite Louboutins, your coat should be well fitted (remember: wool and leather both stretch) yet roomy enough to pile on a couple sweaters underneath. To dress up a basic wool coat, spice it up with a wide patent waist belt or a knotted thin brown leather belt. Regardless of the denial you may be in now, -20 degree weather is on its way faster than you can say "Cabo?". They say that step one is admitting there is a problem. If this is true, then step two is buying a kickass coat to hug you through the frostbite warnings.

(Top to Bottom: Banana Republic Monogram Collection $1200, Silence & Noise at Urban Outfitters $98, Mackage, $550, available at Holt Renfrew)

What A Show!

As we reported a few days ago, this past weekend was The Clothing Show and the crew at FABRIC Magazine were all there to watch it go down. The show has been around for years and happens biannually.

I remember when The Clothing Show was a small show at the Automotive Building called The Old Clothing show, way before vintage was en vogue. The show has now grown and moved into the Better Living Centre. adding to it a vintage section, new designers, and now cosmetics. The show is a great way for non-traditional retailing. With the giant retail fashion chains taking over so much space more of these shows need to happen and we as customers should support these shows. Besides, where else can you find that unique piece to add to your closet?

There were some great upcoming coming labels with their own unique fashion perspective. Some watch-worthy labels include: http://www.butikofer.com/, http://www.greenbaumclothingco.com/, http://www.daggandstacey.com/.

Stay tuned for our Spring/Summer 2009 issue to see who is covered!

The Clothing Show

This weekend be sure to stop by The Clothing Show in the Better Living Centre at Exhibition Stadium! The event brings together over 300 retailers and artisans from across Ontario. The Clothing Show runs September 26-28. Tickets to The Clothing Show are available online for $8 or at the door for $10. With fall just hitting us this week check out this event for a large selection of great finds!

Friday 3pm-9pm
Saturday 11am-9pm
Sunday 11am – 7pm

See and Be Seen!

If you've picked up the latest issue of FABRIC Magazine you'll see a story called Spy vs. Spy, our women's feature editorial that was shot a couple months ago at a great location with an even better view. Last Thursday, the very same condos at 11 Brunel showed us how it's done with a fantastic party! From incredible catered food to jugglers, dancers, and everything in between, this was one of Toronto's hottest parties of the weekend, and FABRIC was there to check it all out. In addition, FABRIC got the chance to distribute 500 copies of our magazine at the party and good times were had all around. Check out the pics!

Garcia and Slowey: Reality Rivals

It looks like revenge is the sweetest thing for Nina Garcia. Earlier this summer she caused quite the stir when she was reportedly given the boot from her position as fashion director at ELLE Magazine. Now at Marie Claire, Garcia seems to be launching her own reality TV show, Running in Heels. This is especially curious considering Anne Slowey, the new fashion director at ELLE, has a reality show called Stylista.

Running in Heels premieres October 22nd and is produced by Tyra Banks. Reality Rivals - what will they think of next?

If you're curious as to what Stylista has to offer, check out an online sample here: http://video.tvguide.com/Shows/Stylista

Hathaway for W!

Anne Hathaway graces the cover of W Magazine for October, looking stunning as always. The issue just hit newsstands so get yours today and check out the feature interview with Hathaway, or go to WMagazine.com to get a peek.

Fidelity Goes Golden

Fidelity Jeans, one of our favourite denim companies specializing in incredibly comfortable jeans at reasonable prices, has released a limited edition stunning gold wash jean, on a base jean available in both white and black. Warning: these jeans are not for the faint of heart.

You can find these hot pants exclusively at the Fidelity Denim website at fidelitydenim.com. They are available starting October 1st and run at $240 a pair. Pair them with a killer pair of heels and a cute and simple tank for a night out on the town. Get 'em while they're hot!

Sean Beckingham - Photographer
David Royal - Stylist
Elena Savella - Hair and Make up
Jeans - Fidelity Jeans http://www.fidelitydenim.com/
Model: Kimberly of Stylus Model Management

The Chace is On...

Looks like Patrick Dempsey doesn't have a lot of staying power these days! As we reported a couple months ago, Dempsey was signed on as the new face for Versace's cologne, Armani Diamonds, but it seems that gorgeous Gossip Girl guy, Chace Crawford, will be replacing Grey's Anatomy's Patrick come Spring 2009 when his contract expires.

One could say they saw this coming, what with Versace outfitting 23-year-old Chace for Fashion Rocks, The MTV Video Music Awards, and at co-star Blake Lively’s 21st birthday party. We're on team Chace all the way.

A representative for Versace commented, “We have been working hard to develop our relationship with Chace - and that is all we can say on the subject".

Sure, sure.

Top Shop Opening Delayed!

Good news... and a little drawback. As many of you have heard, Top Shop will be opening in New York City on at a size of 40,000 sq feet on Madison Avenue. Sir Philip Green, who owns the retail group that owns Top Shop, Arcadia Group, commented upon the announcement of the pending opening of the store. "I always had it in my head that it would cost about $50 million to launch in the States and we can certainly afford that," he said. "I've been thinking about doing this for about 18 months. We have to prove that this is a brand that can travel."

And travel it will, with Top Shop stores in India, Hong Kong, and China allegedly on the horizon.

However, it seems that Green is facing some drawbacks and calls the first New York City store a 'logistical nightmare'. The store opening, originally set for this fall, has been pushed back to March 2009. While Green has stated that he hopes to open shops on Madison, Lexington and Fifth Avenues and in Midtown, he best describes this frustrating set back by saying that "America is a new territory for us and we have to get it exactly right. This store can’t be a nine out of 10 when it opens; it has to be a 10 out of 10."

Armani vs. Peta

Looks like Giorgio Armani is up to some trouble with PETA. Publications such as New York Magazine as well as bloggers-a-plenty are reporting that after commenting that he wouldn't be using fur in upcoming collections, Armani has gone against these promises by using an excessive amount of fur in his Fall '08 collection, much to the dismay of PETA and surely animal rights activists around the world. His jackets, dresses, and even skirts have fur trimming, not to mention his new fur coats for babies. Gross.

Dan Matthews, the President of PETA commented, "We feel betrayed. I have met with Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and many other designers who once used fur but had a change of heart, and not one of them broke their promise". No word from an Armani rep (shocking).

Nevermind PETA. Who buys fur coats for their babies?

Fashion sCares!

Help conquer the fight against HIV/AIDS and support the AIDS Committe of Toronto! Fashion Cares is an annual gala brining together local and international fashion and design industries. This initiative began in 1986 and each and every Fashion Cares has been a success; since its inception over the past twenty-two over 50 thousand guests and volunteers and net profits of over $10,000,000. This year Fashion Cares takes place this year in the Fall with a Alfred Hitchcock meets Haute Couture theme. This years designers include David Dixon, Greta Constantine and Izzy Camilleri. Fashion cares will be hosted by David Furnish; performing this year are celebrity newcomers and recording artists Katy Perry and singer Kreesha Turner.

Fashion Cares is supported by Canada’s most successful companies, such as M·A·C, The Bay, BMO Financial Group, Sears, Molson, and Winners.

Zen-tendo

Historically, when we think of Nintendo we are brought back to our childhood days and the times waiting for the morning school bus. All those 4 to 14 have a relationship with the Mario Brothers and have played Tetris. Flash forward to 2008 and our friends at Nintendo are launching Quick Yoga Training and My Japanese Coach. The gaming company is using there technology background to target Zen, Brain, Rock Star and Health! The project brings together Nintendo and Ubisoft who’ve developed Quick Yoga Training. The program which is quick and easy to use transforms a portable Nintendo DS into a personal coach at your command. This exciting and new technology targets women on the go whether they are travelling for business or are caring for children; giving them the opportunity to stay active is unparalleled. Ubisoft has not forgotten language buffs and business travelers, developing programs such as My Japanese Coach and My Chinese Coach, Nintendo users have the opportunity to learn or practice a new language on the go.

Fall Trend: The Contrast Collar!

As seen on top designers’ runways as well as on the pages of men’s fashion magazines the contrast collar is making a statement. This classic is a sure way to give you a distinct and sophisticated look. Our picks at FABRIC Magazine are by Ralph Lauren Black Label ($295, cotton, available in sizes 14.5-18) Armani Collezioni ($295, cotton available in sizes 14.5R to 18L) and Burberry ($250 available in sizes 14.5-17.5)

Fall Footprints

As the weather starts to chill and temperatures drop here in the fabulous city of Toronto, on those cooler but dry fall days, step into a pair of Chelsea boots. The Chelsea boot also known as Dealer boots and are tight fitting ankle high boots that first became popular in the 1960’s. The standard signature of these boots is the elastic sides allowing for an easy slip on and off! Of course top designers Gucci and John Varvatos have taken this to the next step. These designer boots do not boast the signature sides but yet signatures of both designers. The Gucci Chelsea is adorned with horse-bit hardware which has become an iconic symbol of Gucci. The John Varvatos Chelsea features a button opening providing a classic yet updated look.

Gucci: $840 available in sizes 6-13
John Varvatos: $495, available in sizes 7-12

Caught on Queen – Part 7

As we reported only last week, Rip it Up! We caught Melissa, 28. Melissa is wearing great ripped jeans from Hollister. She’s paired it up with a t-shirt from Sgt. Splatter’s, a north Toronto Paintball facility, and Aldo accessories. Completing her look is a light beige bag from Coach.

Caught on Queen – Part 6

Rushing along Queen Street we caught Van, 22.

Van is wearing:
Louis Vuitton Shoes ($500) LV Bloor
Diesel Jeans ($225) Holt Renfrew
G-Star Sweater ($150) Holt Renfrew
G-Star Blazer
A custom ring and…
Calvin Klein reading glasses.

Caught on Queen - Part 5

Walking east on Queen, we caught the lovely Taeko, 27, sporting a tank she grabbed from a trip to Mexico City. We absolutely adored it, and agree. Her tank says “Don’t See Fashion, Be Fashion".

Be There or Be Square'd

The fabulous Dean and Dan, Canadian designers of DSquared, rocked the house last night at Toronto's famous CHUM Building. Preparations begun early last week for the showing of DSquared's Fall/Winter 2008 collection. The collection was phenomenal, featuring skinny jeans paired with black and brown army inspired boots. The twins showed many fur lined transitional jackets in additions to ones in camouflage. The main trends included: red plaid, suspenders and over sized knit sweaters. Retro glam was the theme of the party and glam'd out athletic wearing gogo dancers partied along with the crowd all night. Notable attendees included: Rihanna, Jeanne Beker, Jennifer Hudson, Rex Harrington, Mark Hanson and Kelly Carlson.

Rip it Up!

Ready or not, ripped jeans are coming back this fall. Beyond being seen on celebrities coast to coast (such as on lovely Ashley Olsen, pictured below), ripped jeans are on the streets in a big way. Although this style may not be the most practical for the cooler months (although tights are always an option if you feel like going for the full-out retro. Or long johns if you feel like going for the full-out Canadian), they are a great piece for the transition months. Luckily, this trend doesn't have to cost a fortune; we think that Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, and American Eagle make the traditionally all-American denim the best. If you're feeling adventurous and creative, DIY by using scissors and a cheese-grator (we're not kidding) to create your own desired distressed look as much or as little as you please.

All the Cool Kids Are Doing It...

Supermodel Kate Moss caused a stir when she first wore the classic Hunter Rain Boot to the Glastonbury Festival for 5 summers straight. Since then, the Hunter Green rain boot has been in high demand continuously selling out. In fact, if you pick up the latest issue of FABRIC Magazine, you can read more about Hunter Rain Boots. 

However, the rain boot can also complete the look for all fashion forward men, especially on a rainy or slushy day! Hunter also makes a wide array of men’s boots which are available in classic and fashion colours. USA retailer and maker of rain boots Tretorn has also been generating buzz with their Vans/Converse take on the rain boot for men. Our pick for Tretorn boots are black, navy blue, olive green and lavender.

A Pocketful of Posey

Up and coming style icon Clemence Posey who has graced the cover of Nylon Magazine this month is someone we will be keep an eye out for. Posey who is known for her roles in the Harry Potter series of movies as Fleur Delacour as well as the In Bruges, always dresses simple yet sophisticated; joining the likes of fashion favourites, Anne Hathaway and Scarlett Johansson. Clemence seems to favour her Cholé sunglasses making them a signature piece over the last couple of years. Classic yet cool. This is a face to watch out for, both on the silver screen and the street.

Lace It Up!

While the fall trend towards leggings continue (perhaps unfortunately?) the lines of iconic design houses such as Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Dolce & Gabbana have all started to favour tights in fall neutrals in the earth tones family. Changing things up new comer Zac Posen recently showed rich plums, oranges, reds and yellows for tights in his fall and winter collection 2008. Taking things to the next level, Italian designer Prada showed lace... how Retro chic! As seen in ELLE’s Fashion Guide to Fall, Prada lace is an entire advertising spread. We here at FABRIC are suggesting all those fashionistas to give lace a try this fall while the warm weather is still among us, before taking the practical approach and stepping into tights.

Spice it Up!

This fall, make a bold statement with a new and fantastic lip colour. The best shades come from cosmetic veterans MAC as well as Chanel and Stila. The amazing world of MAC brings us shades such as Underworld and Spice it Up! If you would rather take a neutral approach to fall look to shades, try Verve, Strength or Photo. Some classics from Chanel include Rouge Allure, Aqualumiere and Rouge Hydrabase. Cosmetics designer Stila has named all the shades after women with the fall shades being: Aida, Diane, and Linda!

See It to Believe It

As far as bridge collections go, we at FABRIC Magazine must admit that we love Marc by Marc Jacobs as well as MICHAEL by Michael Kors. Adding to this lineup is newcomer, See by Chloe. 

See by Chloe is French design house Chloe's younger and hipper sister, targeting a 20-something market and featuring cheaper but still chic clothing and accessories. See by Chloe has hit Holt Renfrew by storm and we must admit that we love See's large, soft, candy-coloured handbags best. These bags were just recently released and are selling like hot cakes. Find See at net-a-porter.com, Nordstrom, or shopstyle.com for your taste of Chloe at a more affordable rate . See ranges from $40-$700.

Ruby Red

Last night Swarovski and Warner Bros. collaboratively held an opening event to mark a year long campaign that will surely make fashion history. To mark the 70th anniversary of the release of the iconic film, The Wizard of Oz and Dorothy's infamous Swarovski-adorned Ruby Red Slippers, Swarovski's CRYSTALLIZED line and Warner Bros. teamed up with several of the world's most designers to create an exciting Ruby Slipper Collection for the in-store SAKS Gala. The proceeds from the event last night will go towards the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. The display will be shown at the SAKS Fifth Avenue store starting this week and will continue through to 2009, which is the official mark for the anniversary of Dorothy's debut. No word on the Wicked Witch of the West.

For more information on the event, as well as the designers involved, check out the press release at http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/warner/34726

TIFF '08

In celebration of the start of the Toronto International Film Festival we've decided to take on Queen Street and take it Old Hollywood. With many red carpet events starting this weekend and all throughout next week taking your look classic is a sure way to stand out. If you're lucky enough to be attending a TIFF event remember it's always better to be overdresses than underdressed! We suggest a classic white tuxedo shirt and a silk bow-tie both from Club Monaco. Team this with flat fronted fitted black dress pants from H&M to complete this look. Party on.

Stay tuned for more coverage of the TIFF in upcoming weeks!

Dean and Dan are Back in Town!!

This Sunday September 7th world famous Canadian designers Dean and Dan are presenting their fall/winter 2008 collection of DSQUARED at Fashion Television / CTV. This is the hottest kick off to the Toronto International Film Festival'08. This runway show straight from Milan has already attracted and confirmed the likes of many Hollywood A-Listers. Be sure to stop by Queen Street late Sunday to watch this red carpet unfold and maybe see your favourite Hollywood heart-throb. Fabrics own Cynthia Cully will be front and centre at the show with full a full review. We can't wait to see what Dean and Dan will do next!

Fall Trend Alert: The Grey Suit!

Fall is around the corner and looking back to fall fashion week and the trends of Toronto, grey suits are carrying over. In spring of this year we saw many designers show a classic three piece suit featuring plaid and angular patterns; this fall we will be wearing a solid coloured grey. The grey suit is a perfect way for men to transition into this fall; the now solid coloured suit allows men to team them with oxford shirts in deep purples and paisley prints. Additionally, men can accessorize with croc leather bags and textured shoes. The amazingly talented Marc Jacobs in signature fashion has taken this fall’s must have suit and featured the masculine broad shoulders teaming it with skinny cropped and cuffed dress pants. Again in true Marc fashion, this suit worn with boots is perfect for any fashion forward male. Catering to a more business clientele the grey suit can be found teamed with straight and relaxed cut pants by suit veterans Ralph Lauren and Versace. Men looking for a new grey suit should as always avoid pleated slacks; unlike our female counterparts the waist high wide leg dress pant is another red flag. Designer Giorgio Armani took the purple we are seeing everywhere for fall and did metallic dress pants with grey blazers for those daring enough to sport this style. Featured on the cover of Russia’s current GQ Style is a grey suit with a two toned collar further, teen heartthrob Nick Jonas is sporting an almost identical grey suit on the cover of the new Jonas Brothers album, A Little Bit Longer. With September fast approaching, wearing a navy or royal blue oxford shirt is the perfect way to start this trend.

This look comes compliments of Stone House Eaton's Centre location.

Grey Suit - Tiger of Sweden: $729.00

Grey Vest - Tiger of Sweden: $199.00

Purple Shirt - Stone House: $110.00

Black Shirt -Tiger of Sweden: $139.00

Paisley Tie - Ted Baker: $95.00

Black Tie - Tiger of Sweden: $129.00

Model: Colin - Stylus

Stylist: David Royal

Photographer: Sean

Shoe maker passes away

One of the most memorable things about back to school shopping as a small boy was heading to Bata Shoe store. The stores are long gone and now so is one of the Bata family members, Thomas George Bata. Thomas was the son of the founder Tomas who was a ninth generation cobbler. At one time Bata Shoes was one of the largest shoe manufactures on the planet. In 1985 it manufactured in 61 countries, operated 92 plants and 6000 retail stores, and sold through 100 000 merchants in 115 countries. Bata Shoe Organization has sold more than 14 billion pairs of shoes - greater than the number of pairs of human feet that have walked the earth. Today Batas largest Canadian public presence is the shoe museum Located on Bloor Street, Toronto, and designed by Roy Moriyama.

Sean Beckingham