Deena & Ozzy’s dual tone wedge immediately stuck me as unique, yet also familiar.

The reason was Gareth Pugh’s dual tone wedge was haunting my subconscious! The comparison is not necessarily identical, but this kind of version is how inspired by designs should be done – slightly adjusted yet similar enough to remind us of the original design.

Like the Pugh design, the D&O version is made of suede, yet has the de-licious price point of $88, versus that of the GP; $980.  Sounds excellent to me!

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If you were wondering where incredible Vancouver fashion design can be found, look no further than Jason Matlo’s work.

The images below were taken from Jason Matlo’s SS10 collection; the range is cohesive, on trend with its use of animal prints and ultimately feminine and flattering.  It’s been quite a few seasons since I’ve seen another designer pull off female elegance that well, and with such beautiful simplicity.

These are not intense pieces that will put fear in the woman to wear them – these are very wearable pieces that can be worn on their own or amongst a heavier layering style.  The louder pieces speak to me; zebra is exciting and oh so trendy at the moment.  The print used on such beautifully tailored pieces; it’s impossible to remain thinking that print is something only a cougar or trailer park escapee would wear.

Jason Matlo has created a range that is light enough for spring and summer styling, yet grounded and without pastel horrors to be a truly wearable SS10 collection.

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All the way back at the end of October, I made a comment promise that I would acquire the La Dolce Vita cutout boots and prove that they look awesome and not orthopedic brace-like.

I located them at the Granville Street Urban Outfitters on Sunday, under a sign that said 50% off the lowest price (which just happened to be $40), so I walked away with these for $20.

Though these little boots may be synthetic, they’re quite the pair of shoes.  You have no idea how comfortable these are! I felt like I was walking on a pair of flats, and haven’t had an odd rubbed spot or potential blister attack as one may with new shoes.

I maintain that these are unrelentingly awesome, and look incredibly cyberpunk cool.  I intend on wearing the very life out of these shoes, and enjoying every minute of it.

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After catching wild criticism for her now infamous partial quote of “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels“. What most news outlets failed to retain is the second half of the quote; “…you try and remember, but it never works.”

This is insane; nobody berates the rotund Beth Ditto for celebrating her size (they wouldn’t dare!), so let’s not pick on the skinny bitches.  WWD was clearly baiting her to make a weight related comment, and she followed through with concise honesty.

Let’s face facts – no matter how much ‘real woman’ Dove commercials we get shoved down our throats, nothing will replace the thin woman from the world of modeling.  Unlike the era prior to heroin chic, we now know the look of thin.  Many may despise or love it, but skinny is here to stay and it won’t do a lick of good to blame a model for it.

When it comes down to it, you’re still in charge of your own body.  No matter how many photos you are bombarded with, no matter what you’re told (or not told), you make the decision to be thin, fat or whichever.  While eating disorders are legitimate, it’s ludacris to lash out at Kate Moss for wanting to remain at the top of her trade.

The media applauds those ‘real’ women without hesitation, we are no longer permitted to celebrate thin people.  I find it utterly offensive that so called ‘thinspiration’ is condemned; it seems that the media would rather we were a society of obesity (hello WALL-E!).

Thin women are ‘real’ women too, and Kate Moss should be lauded for speaking her mind, and not sugaring or falsifying her response.  The facts remain that if she became what everyone is so fond of dubbing a ‘real’ woman, she wouldn’t get booked anywhere but Glamour.

Kate has played the world like a puppet; to stay relevant one needs to garner headlines and media interest, and she certainly has done that.

As with everything, this thin hate too shall pass – let’s not get too caught up in sensationalism.

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If you’re wanting details on all the Cyber Monday details in the clothing and accessory world, you really should be following demiCouture on Twitter.

If you’re not a fellow Twit, then you can see the entire list of sales right here.

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Josue, my dear lanky friend, is an excellent photographer.  Check out his captures at the Movember Gala at Fortune Sound Club and demiCouture’s 2nd anniversary party.

If for nothing else, check em out to see my awesome partial perm. YEAH!

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Beyond the Rack is featuring some pretty awesome Betseyville bags, and you only have just over a day to decide if one shall be yours!

They’ve got luggage, handbags, tennis racket bags and wallets - everything you will need to beef up your current section out of Dullsville to Betseyville.

My particular favorite is this tiger’s head bag – it has an adjustable strap to turn into a messenger bag! Yes! Just what I’ve been wailing for, and only $59 CA.

The Dotting Around tartan satchel ($39) is also quite rad, as is this floral/gingham mashup carry on bag ($109).

If you need an invite to Beyond the Rack, get it here.

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Zinc is a fabulous hair salon that puts on a brilliant hair show in Vancouver twice a year.

These are the people I trust to create my crazy hairstyles, and below you can see why.  This collage is backstage at the recent London Calling 2 hair show.  I walked in this, and saw fit to harass everyone else during the hours of prep time backstage to keep myself from boredom.

Check out all the hair.. by the time everyone hit the stage, it was perfect.  If you want an idea of what things looked at the end, this is what I looked like at the first London Calling.

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Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball Tour has kicked off last night in Montreal,and it’s got me thinking of Vancouver’s three dates.

Since The Gaga is as much a lover of clothing and creative dressing, I’m very hyped to see her live again.  If Gaga inspires you, I’m sure you already have tickets to one of the three nights.  If not, there is a very good chance that you can live vicariously through some concert photography courtesy of yours truly.

I photographed Lady Gaga’s last performance in Vancouver; you can check the photos here.

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If you’re into cycling or just keeping up with what really rad people are wearing on two wheels these days, Copenhagen Cycle Chic is a blog for your reader.

It’s amazing what Europeans dare to wear whilst cycling; massive heels, bodycon dresses, fur.  Anything goes!

Check out this incredible blog – I personally recommend it.

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I’ve seen my fair share of Karl Lagerfeld ikon t-shirts, but this one is particularly fun.

It’s the simplistic nature of the image that is so effective. Anyone can screen a photo of the Kaiser on a shirt, but this almost Fido Dido style of illustration keeps a measure of creativity.

The creators of this shirt is street wear brand Dimepiece.  While I’m not down with their glib message tees, this piece redeems the label in my mind.

This oversized design is also affordable at $34.

Huzza!

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For those unaware, Portobello West is a local fashion and art market which takes place on the last weekend of every month.

For those wanting to buy local and ensure they further the careers of local designers, this would be the event to get down to.

I know that Kim Cathers (of Project Runway Canada Season 2), Terri Potratz of Larry and Flora and Fauna are going to be there; all exceptional artisans in their own fields.

Basically, if you’re a fan of Etsy in any form than you’re going to want to check this market out.

Portobello West Vancouver is taking place at the Rocky Mountaineer Station.

Photo by Stefania Savluc

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Acne is on sale at Gravity Pope, and this skirt is the pick of the litter.

On sale for $190 from $369, this is quite the deal for a piece of this Swedish clothing company.

This draped skirt is universally flattering for most body types, and the length is an excellent – nothing quite skanky, but not knee length frumpy either.

If you’re in need of a basic black piece for the office or just to amp up your collection, this is a solid choice.

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We mess ourselves every time another Acne shoe gets released, and I hope you have some ..er.. preparation now that you’ve seen the Bellvilles.

Everything about these booties is love; the hidden platform, slight point toe, architectural heel and smooth leather texture.  These are usually $728 per pair (I know), but S|Sense is currently holding a 30% off sale.  Use promo code “SSENSEBF” till midnight tonight (Black Friday 2009) and you’ll only pay $510.

It’s good news, but the hours for you to take advantage of the promo code are dwindling.

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If you want to mix your Pepto-girly side with some hardcore attitude, Alexander McQueen’s pink satin clutch is calling your name.

You’ve likely seen the black version, but this pink design is more rare and just happens to be on sale.  While it’s still a lofty price point, $1,152 is a decent price cut from $1,599.

There are only three more of these available at Zappos, and I’ve never seen this color available at another [reputable] luxury retailer.

If you take a fancy to this piece of joy, now’s the time.

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Vancouverites, this is a little preview of the madness we can expect at the American Apparel rummage sale being held next week on the PNE grounds.

‘Holy snap’ comes to mind.

Image via @taramason

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Oh, the bike boot.  It’s perfect for stomping, riding, whatever you need to do, and it’s so on trend at the moment.  Jimmy Choo’s York boots are quite the prize, but they’re skimming in at nearly $1,200 – not something the average shopper can acquire.

Thankfully, Jeffrey Campbell has done what he does best; created a lookalike version to keep up with our boot wants.  The JC Viva Distressed boot is just what the Choo bike boot drooler should be checking out – it’s studded, mid height and a slight heel.  It’s currently on pre-order at Singer22, which identifies the kind of buyer fury that will undoubtedly occur. 

The Campbells are clocking in at a reasonable $285, which isn’t bad considering the leather work, studding and buckle strap detailing.

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Since we’ve all been burned on sample sales or rummage sales, so this is a welcome safety net. 

American Apparel has released a photo of their rummage sale price list, which starts next week!

Looking at the prices, things actually look pretty damn good; $8 for a pair of leggings (or 3 for $20), jackets for $15, basic tees for $7, unitards for $12 and tights for $2?!

YES, THANK YOU!

American Apparel, you have proved once more why you are king shit of the hipster clothing empire.

These sale prices are for Toronto and Vancouver rummage sales.

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You may not be aware, but identical pattern on pattern is quite dapper when done correctly.  Topman currently has a seven shirt and tie sets, and all of them feature this.

All sets range in price from $50 – $60US, and come with a detachable tie.  This means you have a tie and shirt you can blend with the rest of your wardrobe – you’re not just getting one piece with one look.

Identical pattern on pattern works the same way with smart dressing as a monochrome casual style; if you’re wearing black on black on black outfit and wear white brogues, people are going to notice your footwear first. 

One does not always need to have their neck being the focal point of their look; oftentimes you can let other pieces do the talking.  Try wearing a bold shoe or pant with these shirt and tie sets to give off a bold air and still remain effortlessly flawless.

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Aside from demiCouture’s 2 year anniversary, it was a celebration of Covenant House and what they have done (and continue to do) for kids of Vancouver.

We raised a nice chunk of change for these guys, and are super grateful for you guys coming to hang out and donate to a rad cause. 

If you didn’t get to make it out, get some holiday karma points in and donate to Covenant House - they’re doing a ton of great stuff to help at risk youth.

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