Parties – I want

Nao Steakhouse x I want – I got Dinner Party

Nao Steakhouse teamed up with me, Sidewalk Hustle and The Soles of My Shoes on a special dinner event in which we invited some of closest influencer friends to experience the food and cocktails of this modern steakhouse. Nao sources its cuts of meat from top local and global producers and accents them with spices and flavours of Asia-Pacific. I invited my good friends Andrew Sardone, Editor of Globe Style Advisor and Philip Sparks, a Toronto based menswear designer.

Executive Chef, Stuart Cameron prepared a wonderful menu that gave everyone a chance to try the variety of dishes on the menu. Here are all the mouthwatering details. We were excited for the epic experience the menu hinted at.

First course
Tuna Tartar – Wasabi Leaf + Avocado + Puffed Rice + Wasabi
Lao Raw Beef Tartar – Squid Ink Chip + Kaffir Lime + Chili
Binchotan Grilled Shishito Peppers – Amabito No Moshio Salt

Second Course
24 Oz Strip Loin – Dry Aged 40+ Days USDA Prime, Nebraska, USA
Whole Branzino – Red Yuzukosho Marinade + Ponzu Brown Butter

Sides
Seasonal Mushrooms – Pickled + Crispy + Roasted + Rayu
Crispy Vidalia Onion – White Soy Sour Cream
Shredded Kale Salad – Pickled Shiitake + Spicy Sesame Dressing + Fried Shallots

Desserts
Baked Alaska – Coffee Ice Cream + Mocha Sauce + Meringue
Chianti Wine Raspberry Sorbet – Vanilla Crème + Mint + Candied Lemon

Nao has two levels but we were seating on the ground floor at a large table. I called it the “look at me” table as we seemed to be on display for everyone. Nao is great place for people watching. The crowd skews young professional and up. The bar area was busy with customers having a few cocktails and chatting it up. The two floor setup is great because if you want a quieter dinner you can eat upstairs away from the hustle and bustle of the bar. It was a Thursday night and the place was packed. I think there might have even been some Toronto pro athletes in the place.

We started with some cocktails created especially by Nao’s master mixologist. There is a lot of variety on the menu that’s sure to please rye, bourbon, vodka and gin drinkers. Love sake and tequila, Nao has you covered too. The cocktails are presented in vintage glasses that are super adorable and unique. You almost want to stick them in your bag and take them home with you. I know what you are thinking and the answer is No, not that this event. Actually, Nao has amazing branded Japanese steak knifes that you’d wanna take off with too. No, no we didn’t do that either.

We got settled in with the drinks and then the mountains of food for the First Course started coming. At Nao, Beef Tartar is prepared right at the table. This type service gets me every time; it’s a great interactive experience for the customer. Unfortunately, the Beef Tartar was the only item of the night I didn’t like. I love Beef Tartar but I felt Nao’s was a bit to saucy for my tastes. Tuna Tartar and Binchotan Grilled Shishito Peppers are some of my favourite things so I enjoyed those options immensely. We squealed at the arrival the mains and sides. Andrew and Philip loved the 24 Oz Strip Loin, remarking on how it was the best piece of beef they’ve ever tasted. The Whole Branzio with Red Yuzukosho Marinade + Ponzu Brown Butter was exceptionally delicious and the presentation was out of the world. They spilt the fish along the belly and then laid it flat. I’ve never seen whole fish presented that way before. The sides, like everything else at dinner, were excellent also.

Now, I know I’m supposed to be gushing about how great the steak is at Nao and it really is great but it’s really all about the heavenly Baked Alaska!
It’s one of those desserts that I’ve seen it in photos from as long as I can remember. It’s an unbelievable feat of nature. How does the ice cream stay cold in the oven?!!!!!! I didn’t know anyone growing up who made them and none of my Caribbean family touched the stuff. That being said, there was something so appealing about this mysterious dessert to my young self. I can’t believe it took me this long to finally indulge and let me tell you it lives up to the damn hype. If you go to Nao, the Baked Alaska is a must. It’s beautiful and delicious; I didn’t want to eat it. I wasn’t expecting the Chianti Wine Raspberry Sorbet to rock my world but it did.

Overall, we had a really great time. The service and food was excellent. The Baked Alaska is a must and I’ll be back to get that into my life again. Thank you to the Nao Steakhouse staff for their hospitality. And a massive thank you to Executive Chef, Stuart Cameron for the great meal.

Nao is located in Yorkville at 90 Avenue Road, Toronto.

images: Courtesy of Nao Steakhouse, myself

The Final PROM at the ROM – PROM X, March 28, 2015

It’s the end of an era. This Saturday, March 28, 2015 is the last PROM at the ROM party. It’s been 10 years and I’ve attended several PROM parties, so it’s a little bittersweet to say goodbye.

The final PROM at the ROM, PROM X is inspired by the works of Douglas Coupland and the ROM’s latest exhibit Douglas Coupland: everywhere is anywhere is anything is everything. I’m a big fan of Douglas Coupland’s work so I’m really looking forward to what the ROM is calling a Pop Explosion Party that pays homage to this iconic Canadian artist. There will be live music, dancing, electric activities, gourmet fare and lounge areas to relax in between all the fun. Guests are encouraged to “curate an artistic or experimental ensemble that screams avant-garde, be playful with neon colours or celebrate contemporary Canadiana.â€

Tickets for the PROM X are still available online. There will be a small number of tickets available at the door with a $25 surcharge.

PARTY TICKET includes food and beverage (open bar), dancing, interactive activities and live entertainment

VIP TICKET includes an exclusive pre-party cocktail reception in c5 Restaurant and Lounge with an opportunity to meet Douglas Coupland and receive a signed Polaroid picture of you taken by the artist. Also includes access to exhibition, VIP lounge at the party, private registration and coat check.

DATE: Saturday, March 28, 2015
TIME: Party: 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM | VIP Experience 8:00 PM
LOCATION: Royal Ontario Museum, Main Entrance, Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, 100 Queen’s Park
DRESS CODE: Avant-garde, experimental, and playful
TICKETS: Party: $150 | YPC Member $125
VIP: $350 | YPC Member $300

Luminato at The Hearn Generating Station

Luminato and Yves Saint Laurent Opening Night Party and Big Bang Bash

I’ve been around the event block many, many times in this city and these days it takes a lot to impress me. Luminato’s Big Bang Bash and the Yves Saint Laurent Opening Night Party at the Hearn Generating Station did just that last night. It was a combination of a spectacular venue and major nostalgia that took hold of me and never let go.

I love Luminato. It’s been a great addition to the Toronto arts scene. Anticipation was high for the after I received the press release letting the world know that the Hearn Generating Station would be the location for this year’s fundraising gala. I didn’t know anything about the Hearn Generating Station at the time but clarity happened once I read over the words “The one-of-a-kind venue has never before been used for an event like this, of this magnitude, but glimpses of the facility have been seen in the popular films, Pacific Rim and Robocop.” I just watched the horrible Robocop remake the day before. I knew the movie was filmed in Toronto but I had no idea The Hearn was location of one of the memorable battle scenes. The Hearn was one of the best things in the movie to be honest and now I knew its name. Even better, I was going to get to drink cold beers in its cavernous space.

The Richard L. Hearn Generating Station is located in the Toronto Port Lands. It opened in 1951 and burned coal that was transported via the St. Lawrence Seaway. In the 70s the plant was converted to natural gas and continued until it stopped power production in 1983. The plant played supporting roles in energy production till 1991. There were two major attempts to buy the plant where one group wanted to turn it into a large hockey based sports center and another group that wanted to turn it into a movie studio. Both options fell through but the plant still occasionally shows up in movies.
The Big Bang Bash fundraising dinner had many of the Toronto’s influential benefactors, artists, politicians, sponsors and guest taking in the Berlin Underground theme. Table settings recreated the Berlin wall complete with graffiti and cinderblocks. Jorn Weisbrodt, Artistic Director of Luminato Festival had this to say about The Hearn:

“The moment I walked into the Hearn Generating Station I knew I wanted to do something in this space. It is full of possibilities. It reminded me of the days when I moved to Berlin, just a couple of years after the wall came down. Every week there was a different club opening in an amazing underground location and a few weeks later it disappeared or grew bigger and bigger. The Hearn space asks to be filled with ideas and I love the idea of juxtaposing the glamour of a big gala with the rawness but grandeur of the space. It reminds me of Piranesi’s Carceri etchings. I am so grateful to Paul Vaughan and everyone at Studios of America to let us play in the space.â€

I didn’t attend the fancy dinner but Isabella Rossellini did! She’s here performing Green Porno at the festival. After the dinner the Luminato and Yves Saint Laurent Opening Night Party started. Like everyone who didn’t drive, I took at taxi. It was a really crappy ride. My driver was a dick to be honest, honking and picking fights with other drivers. I also had to break out driving instructions on my phone so we could find the place. To top it all off, he didn’t have change.

All those frustrations sort of melted away when the huge smokestack came into view and the expansive plant grew larger. A wave of nostalgia hit me and I was taken back to my rave days. I went to a lot of raves in 1991 â€“ 1993 and one of the most memorable was held at some factory in the west end. I wish I could remember where it was but I was still in high school and living in Richmond Hill at the time. I had no concept of downtown. We met a shuttle bus at Union station and they whisked us off to this random large factory to party and dance our asses off.

The Hearn brought back those feelings with a vengeance. I felt like a 18 year old again minus the minus the hallucinations. The Hearn dwarfed that factory. It is vast, so vast. 650 thousand cubic metres of space cannot be accurately described. It can fit 12 Parthenons inside! You could lose yourself staring upwards into its cavernous space. The space is in a state of decay but it’s beautiful. Spotlights and colours gave guests glimpses into the dark recesses outside of the party area. Photos don’t do it justice. I’ve never had an inkling for being an urban explorer but I had an almost impossible urge to start climbing any stair or rafter possible. I want a higher vantage point. What hidden secrets did the depths of The Hearn hold for those brave enough? Chatter throughout the night revolved around the insurance price tag and the fact that a concrete floor was poured a couple weeks before just for this event.

YSL had beauty stations where guests could try out the latest makeup and there was a contest for a Saint Laurent handbag which I didn’t win. Previews for the new Yves Saint Laurent movie and YSL ads repeated on big screens throughout the night. Hot Pop Factory (http://www.hotpopfactory.com/) had a booth showing off their 3D printing skills. Guests walked away with laser printed leather bracelets and polymer brooches.

The Luminato and Yves Saint Laurent Opening Night Party didn’t beat the rave on the dancing front. A few of us took advantage of the DJ and dance floor but I couldn’t help wonder how amazing it would have been if Toronto was a dancing city. Despite the very Toronto no dancing thing, The Hearn took me to a place that I didn’t think was possible in Toronto. I felt like I was attending some super exclusive party in London or New York, places that would take advantage of a beautiful, thought provoking space like The Hearn. My hope is that this party sparks some more interest in the space and that someone wants to see it make a cultural contribution to the city like Wychwood Barns, The Distillery District and Evergreen Brick Works.

I guess I should mention my outfit. We were warned about the space ahead of time and I forgot flats and dressed like it was fall. I did the typical Torontonian black with my custom Danier Dress and punched it up with colour using a Gap moto jacket and Kara Ross handbag. Of course, my 3.1 Phillip Lim Chelsea boots were on my feet.

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Luminato, I’ve fallen in love with The Hearn. I went on a major research spree and found some really great links that should you check out for more information and photos.
Ride My Pony Photography Â» Hearn Power Station

Richard L. Hearn Generating Station | Invisible Threads

Hume: Powerful reasons to keep the Hearn Station | Toronto Star

images: George Pimentel Photography
video: me

ALDO Fights AIDS with Waris Ahluwalia

ALDO Fights AIDS. ALDO and Waris Ahluwalia (designer and CEO of Waris Loves You and House of Waris, actor and globe-trotting tastemaker) have teamed up to raise money for Partners In Health and its HIV/AIDS programs. Waris and ALDO created a really cute friendship bracelet that come in four different colours for $5. All the proceeds from the sale of the #FriendFight bracelets will go to Partners in Health.

Partners In Health strives to achieve two overarching goals: to bring the benefits of modern medical science to those most in need of them and to serve as an antidote to despair. In 1998, Partners In Health’s HIV Equity Initiative in rural Haiti was one of the first programs in the world to provide free, comprehensive HIV/AIDS treatment in settings of poverty. The program’s success changed how the world approaches and funds diseases of the poor. Today, Partners In Health provides housing, water, food, and psychosocial support to thousands of people living with HIV; addressing the root causes of poverty and disease, and not just the disease itself.

“I always say my inspirations come from love and history. With these bracelets, it’s about standing side by side with friends and loved ones for what’s right and noble – transforming history together. The arrow symbolizes truth, justice and movement forward. It’s a powerful way to create change.â€ – Waris Ahluwalia

“We have been committed to the fight against AIDS as far back as 1985, when few were willing to take a stand. It’s a cause very close to our heart and today, more than ever, we continue our commitment to raising awareness and funds to help protect and educate people around the world. We’ve come a long way but the fight is not over yet. This bracelet is an important symbol. It represents friendship and solidarity. It’s an invitation to join together in the fight against AIDS.â€ – ALDO BENSADOUN, Founder and Executive Chairman of the ALDO Group

The #FriendsFight bracelets are available online at aldoshoes.com and in select stores worldwide. So pick up a bracelet of three and tag your social media posts with the #FriendsFight hashtag.

The other two bracelets in my photo are from Dean Davidson and are available on deandavidson.ca.

I want – I got’s Toronto Design Offsite Festival 2014 Picks

In Toronto the third week in January is all about design. Some really cool people I know help make the Toronto Design Offsite Festival a reality.

The Toronto Design Offsite Festival (TO DO) is a not-for-profit, independent design festival happening annually at the end of January. TO DO’s aim is to provide exposure for local and national designers; to foster public understanding and knowledge of the practice of design; and to create an ongoing presence that promotes Canada’s creativity, drawing on great thinkers, practitioners, and educators to a deliver an innovative celebration of art and design.

The TO DO Festival runs from January 20 – 26, 2014. Here are some I want – I got approved options if you are looking to check it out.

A Film: Eames: The Architect and The Painter
Tue, Jan 21, 2014
Herman Miller Canada Showroom | Film
Narrated by James Franco, the film brings to light a virgin cache of archival material, visually stunning films, photographs and artifacts produced by Charles and Ray Eames with their talented staff during the hypercreative forty-year epoch of the Eames Office.

Accumulation
Mon, Jan 20, 2014 – Sun, Feb 16, 2014
ARTiculations | Exhibition
Out of matte white paper, Christine Kim has constructed light geometrical structures assembled together like cumulus clouds. For this installation, she explores the relationship between light and shadow through the cut, the fold, and the curve of paper.

Capacity
Thu, Jan 23, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Gladstone Hotel Art Bar | Exhibition
The fourth annual CAPACITY is a contemporary design show featuring new, theme-specific work by Canadian women designers. This year our participants draw inspiration from the work and/or life of design pioneer Ray Eames as a starting point for their Capacity 2014 projects.

Code Switch
Mon, Jan 20, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Delight Chocolate | Window Installation
This two-part installation turns the margins of everyday architecture on its side, quite literally, by illuminating the essential elements of our built environment. Make your own connections by controlling the installed lighting display with the touch of a brick wall.

Come Up To My Room
Thu, Jan 23, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Gladstone Hotel | Exhibition
Come Up To My Room is the Gladstone Hotel’s annual alternative design event with 25 installations and 4000 visitors, all in under 4 days. The 60 artists and designers are limited only by their imaginations, making it one of the most exciting shows in Toronto.

Crease Patterns
Mon, Jan 20, 2014 – Thu, Feb 20, 2014
Cornerstone Home Interiors | Window Installation
Totem Rug Design and Lori Harrison collaborate on an installation of rugs and textiles inspired by origami. Their window installation titled â€˜Crease Patterns’ will connect the ephemeral world of paper folding with the timeless art of textile design.

Do Design
Thu, Jan 23, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Various venues on Dundas Street West between Bathurst and Grace Streets | Exhibition
Do Design celebrates contemporary design in diverse settings of a vibrant neighbourhood. Over 20 individual works plus two exhibitions are showcased in local venues including design stores, cafes, bars, salons and boutiques along Dundas Street West (Bathurst to Grace Streets).

Letterpress Workshop
Wed, Jan 22, 2014
Graven Feather | Workshop | Collaboration
This workshop is a brief introduction to the use of letterpress to make simple and beautiful cards. It’s the perfect opportunity to come and experiment on the presses using old-fashion metal type and vintage designs.

Oasis Skateboard Factory Pop Up Shop
Fri, Jan 24, 2014 – Fri, Jan 31, 2014
The Baitshop | Exhibition
Oasis Skateboard Factory, the only street art and skateboard design high school in the world, presents their end-of-semester pop-up shop. The exhibit will showcase handcrafted, student built and designed skateboards.

patternpattern
Sat, Jan 18, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Graven Feather | Exhibition
Process becomes pattern in this installation by textile designers Lysanne Latulippe and Meghan Price of STRING THEORY. Here a collection of scarves is presented within walls that describe their making.

Sweetness of the Work – Spinning Jenny
Wed, Jan 15, 2014 – Sat, Mar 01, 2014
Gerhard Supply | Window Installation
A glittering, salt encrusted Singer sewing machine and handmade bobbins of salted hand spun linen paper, plus additional salted tools of the â€˜trade’ and embroidered works â€“ Sweetness of the Work pays homage to the art and history of sewing, revering the virtuosity of hand work interpreted through a modern lens.

TO DO Opening Party at SMASH
Wed, Jan 22, 2014 – Thu, Jan 23, 2014
SMASH | Design Party
Come and find out what the festival is about, meet local designers, experience amazing salvage furniture and curiosities at SMASH, and dance with the amazing community that makes the Festival happen.

TO DO Closing Party with Love Design
Sat, Jan 25, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Gladstone Hotel | Design Party
After an amazing Festival week, there is no better way to close it than with another party. Join us at the free Love Design Party, where we celebrate the 11th year of the Gladstone Hotel’s iconic show Come Up To My Room.

This is just a small selection of events happening during the TO DO Festival. Be sure to check out the Toronto Design Offsite Festival website for full festival details.

Follow the TO DO Festival
Instagram – http://instagram.com/todesignoffsite
Twitter – http://twitter.com/TODesignOffsite and the hashtag #todo14
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/TorontoDesignOffsiteFestival

KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee

Operanation might be over for the year but you can still support the Canadian Opera Company with a limited edition KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee. The T-shirt incorporates elements of this years Operanation theme, Temptation. We may not have gotten the Kaelen x Amy Burstyn-Fritz treatment but the t-shirt is a more accessible way to get into Kaelen.

As a friend of Operanation, I was gifted a KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee to wear. The first thing that struck me was the fit. It might just be me but when I put on a t-shirt with the perfect fit everything feels right in the world.

The next thing that hit me was the perfect branding. I hate logo shirts so it was really refreshing to have a t-shirt that managed to namedrop without it being overpowering to the design.

The third thing that stood out was the design itself (and that it extends to the back of the shirt). This is a t-shirt that looks like it wasn’t designed by committee. Many times fundraiser t-shirts are barren of creativity and people end up wearing them to bed or they go to Goodwill. This KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation tshirt is one that I wear outside the house with pride as my selfies attest.

There are only 50 of the KAELEN X Sam Roberts Band Operanation Tee available. They cost $100 and all proceeds go to COC Ensemble Studio. The tshirts can be found online at the COC’s Opera Shop and in-person at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts at 145 Queen St. W.

Heartbeats for Africa Online Print Sale – Starts November 15, 2012

Heartbeats for Africa Online Print Sale – Starts November 15, 2012.

The third Heartbeats for Africa fundraiser launches on November 15, 2012 at noon with a limited-edition print sale by top Canadian artists including Aleks Rdest, Deborah Moss, Susan Collett, Miguel Jacob, Brendan Canning and many more to benefit the Stephen Lewis Foundation. For the first year the fundraiser will take place online so art lovers from coast to coast can shop and support.

You can view the full print collection here: http://heartbeatsforafrica.com/2012_Print_Sale.html

The print sale will go live on November 15, 2012 at 12:00pm EST here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/heartbeatsforafrica

DX Intersection – November 16, 2012

Design Exchange celebrates its relaunch as Canada’s Design Museum with an unprecedented experience: creative disciplines and cultures converge in a large-scale blowout featuring a selection of Canada’s most iconic designers, architects, chefs, filmmakers, and artists.

Multiple DJs will fill the multi-level venue with energizing tunes, brought to you by Embrace. The Toronto-based trio behind Keys N Krates will take the stage with their blend of hip hop, electronica, and jam that truly shows off the artistry of live remix. Celebrity chefs and mixologists will conjure up offerings that are as visually appealing as perfectly balanced for the palate. Designers and artists will create installations that evoke question and intrigue. Whimsical balloons will float through the air as guests are enticed to participate in an amusement park-style raffle with unprecedented prizes. A silent auction will allow 20 lucky guests to walk away with custom creations. As the end of the evening draws near, late night guests will be rewarded with a food market in the Link, inside the lobby of the Toronto- Dominion Centre. Food Dudes will join the party with their new food truck, serving breakfast treats as the celebration continues into the morning.

Participate in the VIP experience for all this plus an exclusive pre-party in the DX’s Exhibition Hall and have the special opportunity to meet the 2012 Gamechanger, Douglas Coupland.

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS $175
DX MEMBER TICKETS $150
STUDENT
TICKETS $75
VIP EXPERIENCE TICKETS $450

The Redesign WORN Fashion Journal Project

WORN Fashion Journal is getting a makeover this fall and they are running an Indiegogo campaign to help fund the project.

Our readers have told us they keep their issues of WORN at record-breaking rates. Over 97% of WORN readers keep their issues forever. Our content is timeless and always relevant. We believe it makes perfect sense for our readers to want to hang on to their issues of WORN forever.

We believe a thicker, perfect-bound edition reflects the true value of WORN. It’s a prestige object our readers should be able to stack on a bookshelf, keep safe in a purse, or display proudly on a coffee table. We believe this new format is a necessary step for WORN. We are no longer a group of friends working in a living room; we’re a real business that makes a product we believe in with all our hearts. We want the outside of WORN to reflect the inside.

Where will the money go?
WORN needs $5,000 to complete this project. The breakdown is as follows:

– The additional fee for perfect binding and extra pages is $2,000 over our standard printing bill.

– The new edition of WORN weighs more and will incur further shipping costs. We require $2,000 to cover the increase in shipping costs.

– The new size of WORN will require different shipping supplies. We have the material necessary to ship out the old version of WORN, but we need $1,000 to purchase sturdier envelopes for durable shipping to WORN readers all over the world.

I’ve been a fan of WORN since the beginning and I jumped at the opportunity to participate in the campaign video. One sunny Saturday afternoon, I sat in Dufferin Grove Park and talked about why I think WORN is important. It turned out so fantastic! Check it out. If you’re a fan of independent fashion voices please help fund the new redesign of WORN Fashion Journal at Indiegogo .

Terrazza di Peroni at the Malaparte Rooftop Terrace

One of my favourite event beers, Peroni, held a party at the Malaparte Rooftop Terrace at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Terrazza di Peroni was “a sunset soirÃ©e inspired by the Italian Coast on the spectacular new Malaparte rooftop terrace.” Malaparte is a private event space on the 6th floor of the TIFF Bell Lightbox building. The rooftop terrace and outdoor amphitheatre is inspired by the roof of Villa Malaparte in Capri where Jean-Luc Godard shot Le MÃ©pris.

The rooftop boasts stunning views of the city and it’s great for live music. I was blown away and it’s one of the best rooftop terraces in the city.

The Compendium Daily has a nice photo of me in my Prada Minimal Baroque sunglasses. I enjoyed that Derick Chetty at The Star noticed all the men in bright, colourful pants. I have to admit that I love spring summer 2011 because of the way people embraced colour. I hope it continues into the fall and beyond.

Power Ball 13

Last year I swore that I would wear something fun to the 2011 edition of The Power Ball. I attended the very popular fundraiser last year and realized that I should have dressed for a party. My outfit was a standard skirt and top. I should have looked to my SpinTO and Buy Design outfits for inspiration instead. So when the buzz around Power Ball Thirteen started my mind started thinking about the outfit.

I’ve been on the hunt for a catsuit for a few years. I contemplated buying one from American Apparel many times but that never materialized. I found myself falling in love with a unitard by Faster by Mark Fast. I remembered when Jenna Bitove wore the unitard at an event. It was great to see it up close. That love turned to obsession and eventually I ordered the unitard from Mark directly. The subject of Power Ball outfits came up again and I realized that my newly acquired Faster unitard was the perfect choice.

I made sure to take a vacation day so that I wouldn’t have to worry about getting up for work the next day. Power Ball Thirteen was going to a fun, relaxing night. The night started with a visit to the Thompson Hotel and the Conair Pre-Power Ball hair and makeup suite. I didn’t need a haircut but I’m always game for getting a pro makeup artist to do my face. I didn’t arrive wearing the unitard. I wore my backup outfit, a Philip Sparks jumper. I was planning ahead. I didn’t know what to expect as I’ve never worn a unitard before. It could be too hot or uncomfortable and I didn’t want to get stuck with a massive wardrobe malfunction for the whole night.

After my makeup was done I changed. The reaction wasn’t something I expected, people where screaming their heads off. I was a little embarrassed at first, but I got over it pretty quickly. Frankly, it felt like I was back in my Track & Field days. I spent a lot of my waking hours in spandex and other skin tight garments. The unitard is so comfortable, almost like a second skin. I quickly downed a quick drink of liquid courage and grabbed one of the limos that were waiting to take guests of the Conair suite to the party.

The Faster by Mark Fast unitard got a lot of comments (all positive thank god). Most people just gawked to be honest. Thankfully I’m used to gawking with my choice of haircuts and sunglasses. I exercised a little bit of my inner exhibitionist at Power Ball. My friend’s reactions were awesome. Some smacked my ass and others stared in shock. My favourite was the delayed reaction. It would involve the usual hugs and kisses initially. We’d chat for a bit then it would dawn on them. It was great fun.

Stefania from textstyles was very sweet and posted two photos of me on her blog. Photos from She does the city and Backseat Stylers.

Playing in Shrimpton Couture’s Closet for La Societe

I took the lovely Cheri, owner of shrimptoncouture.com as my date to the opening of Charles Khabouth’s new restaurant, La SociÃ©tÃ©. Charles Khabouth owner of INK Entertainment and Alessandro Munge of Munge Leung Design Associates talked to me about La SociÃ©tÃ© at Balthazar’s when I did the I want â€“ I got’s Bisha Adventure in New York City with them last summer. I’ve waited patiently since then to see the results and I got my chance at the launch party. Â La SociÃ©tÃ© is a beautiful and I’mÂ Â amazed that they managed to blow away any reference to the formerÂ occupants, DynastyÂ Restaurant. Â The patios are massive and they will be a very popular this summer with the “see and be seen” crowd. Â The dinning area and bar are full of rich woods and stained glass ceiling is an amazing statement fixture that everyone should see, just stunning. (See the facebook page for photos) I’m looking forward to a new lunch option for my regular Saturday Yorkville excursions. Steak tartar, yum.

Cheri decided that she wanted to dress me for the event and I didn’t say no. She put me in this beautiful 70s era one shoulder printed maxi dress from a company called Mac Tac and towering black YSL Tribute sandals.

I’m now obsessed with YSL Tributes sandals after wearing them. Such a great shoe as it has the platform height I love and they go with anything. I’m kicking myself for not picking a pair up on sale many years ago.

La SociÃ©tÃ©
131 Bloor St, Unit 211
Toronto

images: thanks to Cheri and Andrew for taking these shots on the LaÂ SociÃ©tÃ© patioÂ .

Playing Model for Philip Sparks

Last weekend Stefania Yarhi from Textstyles held a party for the 3rd year anniversary of her site. The party included a fashion show of Stefania’s favourite Toronto designers. Philip Sparks made the list and asked me to be muse/model for the event. Of course, I said yes.

The Philip Sparks blog talks about the preparations for the event (with more photos) in a post called Philip Sparks X I Want I Got X Textstyles.

I got Andrew Sardone to record the fashion show so here it is for you to enjoy. I hit the catwalk around the 5:00 mark.

Proenza Schouler at The Room

The Proenza Schouler duo of Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough came to Toronto for very short day trip and The Room celebrated their arrival. Unlike the Anna Dello Russo party, this was a small affair. It was a welcome change from the madness of Anna. I brought a long time blogging friend ZoÃ« Hong with me. She’s a designer from SanÂ FransiscoÂ that happened to be vacationing in Toronto for the weekend. HerÂ Asymmetrical black leather corselet belt made my I want list. I still think about it.

It was hilarious that ZoÃ«Â visits Toronto and Danielle isn’t in the country. Â ZoÃ« did tell me stories of her adventures with Danielle in NYC to fill the void. It was pretty surprising that Jennifer Campbell of FlareÂ recognizedÂ ZoÃ« from the Internet. Oh, old school fash blogging days.

Some media got interview time with Jack and Lazaro at the beginning of the event. I met them, super quickly made small talk and then photos. It’s like a factory floor when all the guests want to meet the guests. The guys were really sweet and they took pictures with everyone and chatted. Very gracefully I might add. I have one question I wish I remembered to ask them. I’m curious how their Moda Operandi experience went? I think it’s a pretty neat idea. It’s your typical membership based online shopping site with a twist: designer trunk shows. Moda Operandi gives shoppers a chance to purchase items from designers before production has started. It’s full access to the entire collection instead of the buyers selections when it hits the stores. Like a trunk show, you pay 50% up front. AÂ few months later, at the start of the seaason’s deliveries, Â youÂ receiveÂ your purchase and you pay the remaining 50%. People can now order that crazy finale statement dress that will never see retail because of its low sell through rate or budget constraints. I’m pretty impressed with the site (great images and video) and it’s damn tempting, let me tell you.

Of course, men and women were swooning over Jack and Lazaro. Jack’s blue eyes are so striking. You can tell I’m just swooning like crazy in this photo. They are so cute, look at those smiles.

Now I loved swooning over the boys and everything but my main concern was the clothing. This is why I love these pre-trunk show parties. It’s all about up close access to the clothing. To see it and touch it. Racks and racks of Proenza Schouler filled the space. I’ve seen a few pieces here and there but never this much. I successfully didn’t drool on any PS1 handbags.

The clothing is so phenomenal, I want to wear it all. I wish I could afford it all.

See all my photos from Proenza Schouler at The Room.

If you are interested in checking out what everyone was wearing (including yours truly) please check out these wonderful sites:
1. These Roving Eyes – Jason Hudson is a wizard with the camera. He’s also a complete doll and included 3 photos of me in his event roundup.
2. B-Insider – The Bay’s blog is pretty impressive. Christopher Sherman took Polaroid photos and then scanned them. Really cute.

Second Nature Boutique’s Fashion Show & Fundraiser: “Love you to Piecesâ€ – June 5, 2011

Second Nature Boutique Presents A Fashion Show & Fundraiser “Love you to Piecesâ€

Please join us for an afternoon event in support of Juvenile Diabetes Research. Enjoy browsing the Art Gallery while sipping on champagne and indulging in Hors d’oeuvres. Watch our models as they hit the runway showcasing pieces by Oscar De la Renta, Chloe, Miu Miu and more. Come prepared to find that special piece to add to your spring and summer wardrobe! Thank you for helping us to make fashion fun & affordable and participating in making a difference.

Date: Sunday June 5th, 2011
Time: 1:00P.M-4:00P.M
Location: Denison Art Gallery 33 Wingold ave, Toronto
www.denisongallery.com
Free parking
Admission: $40

Tickets available online or in store
www.secondnaturebtq.com
loveyoutopiecesfashionevent@gmail.com

Quadrangle Architects 25th Anniversary Party at Corus Quay

One of my favourite parties from last week was the Quadrangle Architects 25th Anniversary at the Corus Quay building. I was dying to get an invite to this party because I wanted to see the Corus Quay building first hand.

Corus Quay, the new Toronto headquarters for Corus Entertainment, is located on Toronto’s waterfront. Corus Entertainment is a Canadian-based media and entertainment company, and a market leader in specialty television and radio, with additional assets in pay television, television broadcasting, children’s book publishing and children’s animation.

Corus Quay was designed by world-renowned architect Jack Diamond of Diamond and Schmitt Architects. The interior was outfitted by Quadrangle Architects Ltd., an expert in broadcast architectural design.

Corus Quay is an amazing building. The party hosts took guests on a tour of the building where we learned many facts about the building. Not only does it have interesting architecture and interiors, I was totally geeking out over the many, massive server rooms in the building that contains storage enough for 2 petabytes of data. After seeing the building I want to work for Corus. The south side of Corus Quay is floor to ceiling windows that has a beautiful view of Lake Ontario. Any building that lets in a lot of natural light changes the attitude and productivity of the employees. I remember when I moved from the black hole of the Royal Trust Tower to the natural light friend RBC Centre. It was a blessing and I can’t imagine working in another bleak building again.

Corus Quay’s most famous landmark is the indoor slide. I wanted to ride that slide badly. The slide was locked up tight with a padlock and bars. I didn’t ask questions.

Corus Quay has three art installations created by U.K. artists, Troika. Shoal is in a public hallway. I didn’t even notice it, so all I have is video.

Drizzle is another one I didn’t notice either. It’s described as “a light installation that plays with the idea of a cloud caught inside the building making it appear as though it is raining through the slits in the soffit which is located on both the north and south west side soffits(source)”.

I couldn’t take my eyes of the installation by Troika called Lighting. It was a glowing lighting bolt displayed in the Atrium. You couldn’t miss it from the main party floor.

There are so many details in the building that just are exceptional: the hockey rink boardroom table, the microphone chandelier, the furniture. It really does make Corus Entertainment seem like a very cool place to work. The only downside is location. There isn’t much around but Corus Quay has many cafeterias for staff. Corus also provides a shuttle bus from Union Station for employees for easier access.

You don’t need a special invite to get a look at Corus Quay as they have public tours twice a month for the rest of 2011.

See all my photos from the Quadrangle Architects 25th Anniversary Party at Corus Quay

unScripted: Opening Night Gala Performance Party – May 13, 2011

unScripted: Opening Night Gala Performance Party - May 13, 2011

Canadian Stage Visionaries are thrilled to present unScripted: Opening Night, the annual gala fundraiser in support of Canadian Stage, one of the country’s leading non-profit theatre companies. This unique celebration, which plays on the theme of backstage drama from the 1920s to the 21st century, will be held at One King West on Friday, May 13.

The evening includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dancing, as well as exciting celebrity-curated live performances and dramatic installation spaces, inspired by the glamour of opening night at the theatre.

Artistic concepts will be brought to life by a stellar roster of Canadian talent including fashion designer Evan Biddell, Republic of Doyle’s Allan Hawco, stage director Weyni Mengesha, filmmaker Charles Officer, visual artist Charles Pachter, Slice and ReVamped expert Kaitlyn Regehr, The Company Theatre’s Philip Riccio and unScripted event host, MuchMusic’s RAPCITY host, Tyrone “T-RexXxâ€ Edwards.

Proceeds from this fundraising initiative will support the youth and community initiatives of Canadian Stage, working to make the theatre experience more accessible to future artists and new audiences.

The unScripted: Opening Night Gala Performance Party will begin at 8 p.m. The $90 ticket includes drinks, delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared by One King West, door prizes and an exciting silent auction featuring a deluxe trip for two to St. John’s, Newfoundland to visit the set of CBC’s Republic of Doyle.

A limited number of VIP tickets are available at $250 per person. VIP guests are invited to join the Visionaries at 7 p.m. for a pre-show dinner, with a three-course meal prepared by One King West executive chef Samuel Fiore. VIP tickets also include entrance to the Gala Performance Party and a tax receipt for the largest allowable amount. Corporate packages are also available.

To purchase tickets please visit www.theatrevisionaries.ca or call 416.368.3110.

WORN Fashion Journal’s Issue 12 Release Party: The Fancy Pants Vintage Dance – May 7, 2011

Worn Fashion Journal‘s Issue 12 Release Party: The Fancy Pants Vintage Dance – May 7, 2011
WORN Fashion Journal's Issue 12 Release Party: The Fancy Pants Vintage Dance - May 7, 2011

WORN Fashion Journal invites Toronto to celebrate their sartorial seats at our Fancy-Pants Vintage Dance and issue launch. On Saturday, May 7th, 2011, celebrate the launch of WORN Fashion Journal Issue 12 with a tribute to two-legged tailoring.

Do you long to lindy in your leggings? Charleston in your churidars? Do you jones to jive in your jodhpurs and burn to boogie in your Oxford bags? Maybe you can’t dress for success â€“ but you can show ’em who wears the pants. However you interpret trousers, get your best pair on and shake your moneymaker at the Fancy-Pants Vintage Dance. And when you’re done parading your pretty pantalettes, get a leg up. Show off your shimmy as our DJ spins a mix of oldies guaranteed to put some ants in those very fancy pants.

The Dovercourt House
805 Dovercourt Rd. (just one block north of Bloor St.)
Pants ON at 9pm
Pants OFF at 2am (But seriously, don’t. We’ll call the police.)

TICKETS: order your $10 ADVANCE TICKETS NOW at www.wornjournal.com
or pick them up at
Robber 863 Queen St. West
Function 13 156 Augusta Ave.
Freedom Clothing Collective 939 Bloor St. West

Or Pay $12 At The Door
All Tickets Include A Free Copy Of Worn’S Brand New Issue!
This Event Is Licensed

BOLDLY, a charity event in benefit of the Assaulted Women’s Helpline – April 28, 2011

BOLDLY, a charity event in benefit of the Assaulted Women’s Helpline – April 28, 2011 Boldly, April 28, 2011

Over a year in the making, 18Karat is proud to present Boldly – a fundraising event in benefit of the Assaulted Women’s Helpline.

Boldly is an event based on and inspired by our community – the individual members, businesses, and organizations that have come together in support of each other and those in need. At the center of this event is the Boldly Collection – a collection of 10 handcrafted jewellery pieces created by Toronto based goldsmiths and designers inspired by their interpretation of the evenings theme strength and courage. Each piece will be raffled during the evening event.

I was asked to be one of three judges for the event. We are tasked with determining the winners for the Boldly Collection Best in Design and Best in Show awards.Â There are some very beautiful designs in the running.Â I’ve already had my insider access to the pieces ahead of time for closer inspection.Â The final decision hasn’t been made yet, that is for Thursday.

The event has The Boldly blog which has informative Q&As with the designers.Â There is also a facebook event page with up to the minute updates.

BOLDLY, a charity event in benefit of the Assaulted Women’s Helpline
Thursday, April 28, 2011 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
SHAMBA foundation
48 Yonge Street
#1200
Toronto

SantÃ© SoirÃ©e, a blowout benefit that brings together some of Canada’s hottest performers in conjunction with Prostate Cancer Canada. The star studded line-up will be co-hosted by the Juno Award-winning darling Divine Brown, and star comedian Trixx, known for his sell-out performances at Yuk Yuks and appearances on Much Music’s Video On Trial.

Taking place at the Embassy Night Club in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment district, the evening’s performers include rapper Silver (aka Solitair) responsible for the chart-topping Kardinal Offishal’s anthemic “BaKardi Slang,â€ powerhouse R&B songstress, Liberty Silver, who has had the honour of performing for Barack Obama and numerous other heads of state. Also on the bill is Mac Graham, who’s current single, “Midnight,â€ has been receiving enthusiastic playback from radio stations across Canada.

Doors open at 7:00pm for this mÃ©lange of intimate performances, with complimentary cocktails from Bacardi Rum, Lifford Wines and Molson Canadian, with Caribbean-fusion delicacies like ackee and callaloo spring rolls, being served by Chef Washington of Room Service Restaurant and Catering. Tickets are $20, which also includes a donation to Prostate Cancer Canada and a one-year subscription to Sway.

Eternal Sunrise: A Benefit for Japan – March 30, 2011

Fundraiser features Performance from Jully Black, DJ sets Brendan Canning (Broken Social Scene), DJ Shine (Nelly Furtado), Dubmatix (2009 Juno Nominee) The Makeover (Jeremy Glenn & Rod Skimmins), Nate Wize (Sony Music), Baby Joel Smye (Footwork Nightclub), Jeff Kirkwood (Byzantium), Agile (Brass Munk), Addy (Hi Bias Records) and Iron Horse (Pawn Shop Records)

On Wednesday, March 30, 2011, Eternal Sunrise: A Benefit for Japan will take place at Revival Bar at 783 College Street. MuchMusic’s Sarah Taylor will host the event in support of Plan Canada’s relief efforts in Japan.

The evening will also feature a food stand from Caplansky’s Smoked Meats, a raffle and silent auction with more than 50 different items up for bid such as Raptors vs Heat Tickets, gift baskets, concert tickets, jewelry, dinner gift cards, clothing, artwork and much more. Auction items will be available to take home that night, and are payable by cash or credit card. The auction ends at midnight and winners will be announced immediately after.
Tickets available at door only for a minimum $15 donation

Doors open at 8:00pm

100% of all funds raised are being donated to Plan Canada

Elle Canada’s 10th Anniversary Party

Elle Canada had their 10th Anniversary a few weeks ago and of course held a party. I wore a dress from the Greta Constantine spring summer 2011 collection. I was going for a total monochromatic red look but I was missing the red handbag and shoes. I need to rectify that big time.

There was a video made from the night and I made the final cut. See 1:45. I’ve place the video after the jump because it autoplays. Check your sound levels too before checking it out.

Ron White Annual Shoe Drive, January 6 – February 13, 2010

Ron White Annual Shoe Drive, January 6 - February 13, 2010

The Ron White Foundation kicks off the fifteenth year of Canada’s largest shoe drive this week on January 6th with the support of music legends Celine Dion, David Foster, Paul Anka, The Canadian Tenors, and prodigious newcomers Nikki Yanofsky and Charice. All have signed and donated their shoes to support Ron as he encourages people to “Follow in the Footsteps of their Favourite Celebrityâ€ and donate their gently worn shoes and boots to those in need.

All donations are welcome beginning Thursday, January 6th and will be collected through Sunday, February 13th at all five RON WHITE locations across the Greater Toronto Area. An additional collection depot is located on the Avenues Level of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto. Shoes and boots collected in all locations will be sorted, cleaned and distributed to shelters and organizations in need. This year’s charity partners include: Dress for Success, StreetHealth, Halton Place, Out of the Cold and Ve’ahavta.

Ribbon Rouge #5, December 11, 2010

Ribbon Rouge #5 is a Fashion and Art exhibition with a silent auction which has over the past 5 years raised and donated approximately $10,000 towards HIV relief in Africa.

This year’s show will be held on the 11th of December at 20 Grovsenor Street Toronto. Guests will be treated to a tasteful mixer in the company of classy “fashionistas”, enjoy free delectable hors d’oeuvres, listen to the soulful renditions of The Jonathan Blaak Jazz Trio, The Recipe (2009 Canadian festival of spoken word champions), and be entertained by dance sensations Sapphire dance productions and African Dance Festival

Our guests will win several gifts (Including a spa package, Dining gift cards, Free purses, discounts off bespoke clothing and discounts off portraits). In addition, guests will have the opportunity to buy fabulous fashions and art, which are awesome Christmas gifts, from our silent auction.

ALL proceeds go to UNAIDS in support of HIV survivors.

Music by DJ. Nijero
Fashion and Art by Arewa

tickets at 6475003163 or www.arewa.ca
$5 students (with valid student I.D), $10 general, $15 at the doors

BIG BANG: The Campaign by Esprit and SOS Children’s Villages

From October 26 – November 13, 2010 each Esprit stores in Canada will provide customers with a drumstick, which will direct them online to a virtual super drum from via www.esprit.com/bigbang. The target is to reach 3 million ‘bangs’ globally, at which point Esprit will donate a further 500,000 Euros worldwide to the SOS Children’s Village Alibaug, INDIA.

Customers will also be able to purchase a specially designed SOS mug in-store, priced at $9.95, with the proceeds going directly to the SOS campaign.

You’re probably wondering what the hell is a Bang? You goto the website, select your country and click on a virtual drum. I tried it myself. No login and super easy. If they reach 3 million bangs Espirt coughs up the cash.

Oscar nominated actress, Maggie Gyllenhaal and her husband, the critically acclaimed actor, Peter Sarsgaard have been chosen to act as global ambassadors for the opening of the SOS Children’s Village Alibaug. The couple was inspired to be part of the monumental opening of the SOS Children’s Village Alibaug and raise awareness for the good works of the charity worldwide.

Orphans and abandoned children find a safe home in the SOS Children’s Villages where they can grow up in an SOS family with a feeling of security. Esprit has entered into a long-term partnership with the SOS organization; the partnership surrounds a goal to build and maintain a complete village in Alibaug. Here, on India’s southwest coast, close to Mumbai, a new home for 140 children was built. It will provide single mothers in the surrounding communities the support they need to build an independent future for themselves and their children.

Category: Parties