Archive for the ‘Innovative’ Category

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Generation Next: Winner announced!

Sunday, September 5th, 2010

A month ago we introduced you to a new designer competition and two weeks ago we announced which three finalists were going to battle it out on the runway to win the title of Generation Next. Well, on Thursday each of the finalists Lede, Madame Wolf , and Sofia Clothing showed their collection to a fashion savvy audience and to a panel of esteemed judges.

I was actually at the event and let me tell you, being in the presence of some very talented designers was an amazing experience especially when the show you’re watching features designs that you’d wear day in and day out. Each collection was amazing and encompassed different areas of innovation but in the end, only one designer could take the title of Generation Next and that designer is..

Sofia Clothing

With designs that are intended to make any woman feel beautiful from the outside in, Sofia Clothing understands that clothes should not be worn to create a woman’s beauty but to add to it. “Sofia is created with this story in mind. The pieces are vibrant, feminine and don’t over shadow the woman wearing them; perfect for a day about town or a night of wine and laughter.”

Congratulations to all of the finalists and especially to Sofia for winning this years title.

Posted in Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative | 1 Comment »

Vintage, say what?

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

First of all, thanks to those who came out to the market on Sunday to show your support to our monthly market. It was so great seeing some familiar faces and meeting new ones who will hopefully be back for some more fashionable fun! That`s what this market is about, celebrating fashion in the heart of a growing community, right?

Something that I`ve always loved are vintage finds. They’re one-of-a-kind and add a bit of flare to every outfit, not to mention the fun that goes into the journey of finding it. But when you aren’t able to raid the vintage stores around the neighborhood, it’s always so refreshing to see that so many designers are putting a vintage edge on their pieces whether it may be creating an overall vintage aesthetic or finding vintage gems and making it new again. It saves us the work doesn’t it?

I’m excited to introduce or re-introduce you to two designers who will be at our September market who really take pride in making their items, vintage inspired. These two designers have grown to be some of my favorites: Vintage Creations and BuenoStyle.

The great thing about Portobello West is that it gives the community a chance to get to know great designers and it wasn’t until I found out about PW that I began to look into Vintage Creations. Vintage Creations offers recycled cashmere and other luxurious creations that was founded in 1998 by Beth Nielsen. Although Vintage Creations is based in Seattle, Nielsen’s line is offered in several boutiques across the US and Canada. Probably one of the things I love about this line is that it’s so effortless to pull off. Her pieces are something that you can easily throw on and walk out the door wearing but still look amazing. FYI, her sweaters and wraps are perfect for the fall! :)

I fell in love with jewelry by BuenoStyle the first time I walked into Barefoot Contessa on Commercial Drive. My jaw drops whenever I look at the pieces online but in person, you can see the high level of craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Her pieces range from $12-$90 USD which is a steal for something that no one else has. I love how everything has an antique feel- it’s not old but at the same time isn’t new so I think that in itself is kind of appealing when it comes to jewelry. It adds substance, you  know? I know the market is a month away but definitely make this vendor a MUST see when the time comes :)

Remember, $15 membership cards are still being sold at our market! Many people have picked one up already so make sure to give it a second thought. It gets you free admission for a year as well as 10-20% discounts from several vendors!

Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall!

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

It’s kind of sad that summer is coming to an end, especially with the weather staying consistently beautiful and hot but we all know that come September, that’s going to change drastically. So with summer transitioning into fall, there are several changes that need to be made to every fashionista’s wardrobe aka my favorite time of the year! Say goodbye to your tank tops, beach bags, and bare arms and hello to t-shirts, messenger bags, and fancy pullovers. Sounds kind of complicated and time consuming doesn’t it? Lucky for you, Portobello West has you covered in all areas by making it easy, fun, and convenient for you to find all of your fall essentials in one fabulous place.

Tank tops were so last month so instead, pick up a t-shirt to start your fall right. Street wear enthusiast Tykkun combines elements of bold and simple aesthetics to give their designs spunk and comfort for a laid back, rainy, September day.

You’re not going to need your summer beach bag for another year, so why not trade it in for a stylish messenger bag by Anuk Harvey. These bags are designed with a vintage flare in mind and will make any dreary fall outfit, look put together and stylish all year round.

Kdon’s 100% recycled ECO friendly line offers some amazing knit pullovers that are ideal for those chilly summer nights and perfect for the upcoming and unpredictable  fall weather. So don’t miss out on the chance to stay fashionable and warm with designs from Kdon!

Don’t forget that it’s our 4th birthday so make sure to come early and stay awhile. Remember that Portobello West is offering membership cards to save our valuable customers money every month for just $15.00. These cards will get you free admission for a year and will get you discounts and perks from all of our fabulous designers. It’s an amazing deal, you don’t want to miss out! You’ll thank us come the Holidays, trust me :) .

Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

Get back to school ready with PW market finds by Herrohachi, Kukubee, and Sideline Designs!

Sunday, August 22nd, 2010

Our monthly markets are all about providing you with unique and affordable finds and what better way to stand out in school this fall than with one-of-a-kind, standout products made by some of our talented designers? The first day of school is always a fashion show of some kind so make sure you come to our anniversary market on the 29th of this month to find everything you’re looking for, for this up-coming school year!

Herrohachi has this neeenja canvas tote that is super cute for the fall and very practical for all of your school essentials like your pencil case, notebooks, cell phone, lunch money, and of course my ultimate essential: chapstick! If you’re like me and you don’t like carrying a backpack because it never matches your outfit, then you’re definitely in luck with this tote. Best part of all? It’s $35, yeap, you heard me. While all of your friends are walking around sporting a tna or lululemon bag, you’ll stand out because you’ll be toting around this one-of-a-kind canvas bag!

As I mentioned earlier, it’s more than likely that you’ll have a pencil case in your school bag so it’s best to have all of your writing utensils stored away so you won’t lose anything. Is it just me or are school supplies a lot expensive now?  Anyways, Kukubee makes a ton of these cute little zipper pouches that will fit all of your pens, pencils, and erasers! They come in an assortment of designs and colors, all handmade with love btw,  and are only $12 a piece. I’d get like 5 of them if I were you because you’re friends are going to try and steal yours and I don’t blame them one bit.  It’s an amazing find at at an amazing price, you can’t go wrong!

If you’re feeling kind of depressed that summer is almost over, don’t worry you can still wear your tank tops, dresses, and shorts for just a little while longer if you have something layer over. These scarves by Sideline Designs are wearable art that are made using the Nuno felting method with a silk scarf center to provide durability and strength. Long story short, you’ll be warm in one of these guys. You can put one in your book bag if the weather is looking a little questionable or you can pull one out if you’re getting chilly in a lecture! See, pretty AND accessible! For $35, what more can you ask for? :)

Back to school is a lot more fun if you get excited about all of the new things you can buy for yourself without feeling guilty. I mean come on, you need all of this stuff for school! It’s totally justifiable, wouldn’t you say? Back to school never looked THIS good!

Oh, and remember to mark the 29th off on your calendars this month because it’s our anniversary market! It won’t be a par-tay without you all!

xoxo

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Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »

Generation Next – Down to THREE

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

A couple of weeks ago we blogged about Generation Next, a new designer competition hosted by The Honey Mustard Fashion & Media Services, that some features some amazing, up-incoming talents. If you have no idea what I’m talking about click here to go back to our previous post to get updated on the must knows for this competition! Anywhoo,I have some developments that I’m excited to share: last week the contestants were narrowed down to just 3, to battle it out for the title of Generation Next.

And the finalists are…

Lede, Madame Wolf, and Sofia Clothing

These 3 finalists are extremely talented and all add a different component to the competition. Lede produces all of he clothes in Vancouver, combining both comfort and style. Who knew those two words could be used together in the same sentence because when I think comfort, i think uggs and sweat pants :) . Marla Lede, the mastermind behind these designs is able to infuse both elements that can any woman feel fashionably comfortable in her own skin. Alberta gal Jenna Etcheverry, the designer of Madame Wolf, takes a different approach combining elements of glam-rock, flirtatiousness, and modesty to her line. If you’re looking to turn a couple of heads, you’re in great company with Madame Wolf. Last but not least, Sofia Clothing, created by Mendez Scheone, celebrates femininity and confidence in her exquisite Fall2010 line. The perfect thing about her line you ask? Her pieces are versatile- you can dress up, dress down, and mix and match items for a night out or a night in with the gals. Talk about fun, right?

Well guess what, we’re cordially inviting you to this fantabulous event, get ready cause here’s your evite:

There’s only two weeks until this event so the designers must be on pins and needles (literally), getting all their stuff together to put on a mouth watering fashion show for all of us to see.

Tickets can be purchased at Portobello West’s Anniversary Market on August 29th. Remember, we’re turning 4, we’ve got awesome new membership cards to save YOU money, and we’ll be at the Rocky Mountaineer Station from 12-6. It’s rude to miss a birthday party ;) !

XOXO

Posted in Art, Artist, Calgary, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

A Sneak Peak at PW’s Jewelry Galore!

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

If you’ve been to one of our markets, you already know that the jewelry we have at PW is exquisite! The designers are so talented in finding what beads work with what and what color it looks best in. Those vendors are definitely the ones where I spend most of my time at. Just to get you all excited about our market on Sunday, I figured what better way to start the party than to bedazzle you with a blog featuring some one of a kind jewelry by some amazing designers!

ELIZABEADAN

Mother, daughter team Sharon and Sandra are taking Portobello West by storm with their handmade jewelry made in studio in Vancouver! Some of my favorite pieces by this power dual are their pearl necklaces! Seriously, what is more classic and beautiful than a woman in pearls- they’re totally timeless and definitely worth the buy! ELIZABEADAN is definitely a brand to look out for, so save yourself the trouble and jump aboard the train now because there’s no telling how far this mother daughter team will go! If you don’t believe me, check out their stuff on Sunday. You won’t be disappointed, make sure you report back to me! :)

Kilauea Dawn

Jessica Dawn, the creator of Kilauea Dawn, has been creating jewelry since 2007. With most of her jewelry inspired by the beaches found in Vancouver, Jessica uses a combination of pearls, crystals and shells from Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest, the Seychelles, and Tahiti in her jewelry. Her love of the beach and ocean definitely show in the aesthetic of her designs. I think what I love most is the color combination each piece has. You can totally tell that there is a thought process that goes into her creations because the materials used in one piece is so cohesive to the other. It’s absolutely fabulous! If you plan on taking a trip to I don’t know.. Antarctica or you’re thinking ahead to the winter when you know you’ll be missing the beach, definitely pick up one of these pieces. That way, the summer will be with you all year long no matter what season it is!

Izzy and Buds Jewelry Designs

Izzy and Buds Jewelry Designs by Jesee and Koko scream “Ooh La la”, which is what these two talented designers intended when they began creating their designs. Although Jesee is the artist behinds these wonderful pieces, it wasn’t without the help of her partner in crime and muse Koko that is making their jewelry journey a success!  Izzy and Buds Jewelry is designed in such a way where their jewelry pieces are versatile offering simple, classic and avant garde designs that reveal the goddess in every woman, at all times. These pieces speak for themselves- they’re absolutely stunning!

THIS SUNDAY is the big day! Come see us and all of our wonderful designers at the Rocky Mountaineer Station from 12-6pm. Remember, if it’s sunny we will be outside! Get excited! :)

See you then!

Posted in Accessories, Artist, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery | 2 Comments »

If You Can’t Beat the Heat, Go Green!

Sunday, July 11th, 2010

Sweating much? I know I am. This humidity sure came out of nowhere, last week I was wearing an over-sized SWEATER, skinny jeans, and ballet flats can you believe it? I think today I wore less than half of what I was wearing last week, ridiculous! But hey, I’m not complaining. There’s nothing like trekking up a mountain to SFU in the sun, ice cap in hand, with a flower in my hair! But I know what you’re thinking, how the heck do we work within this lovely but hot weather to look great but feel great too? Two tricks of the trade: Eco-friendly fabrics and mineral makeup.

ELROY APPAREL

Born and raised in Vancouver, Elroy by Leanne McElroy began her fashion journey at a young age creating her own garments. After attending design school, Leanne traveled the world and experimented with designs that were sold in local boutiques. Being aware of a woman`s prerogative to be both health conscious and trendy, Leanne began using organic and eco-friendly fabrics to steer her clothing line in a fashion forward and style driven direction. She understands that consumers want to be able to support their health and wellness by wearing organic fibres throughout the day, work, play, night, and especially in the summer when the humidity begins to kick in. This way, women can look amazing and feel great all day long on their summer adventures.

AFFERA COSMETICS

Affera Cosmetics is 100% mineral makeup and because of that, it is the most natural form of makeup made in today`s market. With the summer heat, it`s so important to make sure you`re make up stays on and that you`re well protected from the sun at all times. The wonderful thing about Affera Cosmetics is that it`s water resistant, it won`t clog your pores, and has a natural SPF and anti-inflammatory built in. It`s also chemical free, vegan friendly, with no preservatives or fillers. It`s the kind of makeup that keep you looking effortlessly beautiful and feeling fresh all day long in the summer sun.

Come take part in all of the fashionable fun that Portobello West`s Market has to offer!

On July 25th, make sure you come by the Rocky Mountaineer station from 12PM-6PM to indulge in some summer shopping at Portobello West. Remember, if it’s sunny our market will be held OUTSIDE and that means admission will be free so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get all of the up to date info on Portobello West Market!

Happy Tanning :)

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Papaya Blue Designs: Simply Elegant

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

It is sometimes in the simplicity that creates the greatest impact, which can definitely be said for the stunning designs of Papaya Blue. Handcrafted locally by designer Marni Fernandes, it is clear that she puts her heart and soul into every piece created. I love her work with silver and gold, using soft shapes and beautiful semi-precious stones that are uniquely found in faraway places, such as China and India. From traveling the world, to being a mom, Marni takes her life experiences and passion, putting it indefinitely into the jewellery she designs.

Papaya Blue Designs consists of three different collections: necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. With a perfect cohesiveness, the gems correspond to the style of intertwined hoops and circles, giving a soft and elegant effect. Stylish and sophisticated, Marni’s designs range from $60.00 – $300.00 and are the perfect accessory for any outfit, whether it’s a casual blouse with jeans or a little black dress and heels!

Find Papaya Blue Designs at the Portobello West Market on June 27th, between 12-6pm. Visit the website here for more information on Marni’s fabulous handcrafted jewellery!

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Chic and Charming: Christin Tina

Thursday, June 3rd, 2010

It will always continue to amaze me how beautiful eco-friendly clothing can be – and Christin Tina definitely doesn’t fail to deliver. Named after the designer’s two sisters, the clothing is chic, charming, and utterly breathtaking; I love the appetite to hug curves and create a gorgeous womanly silhouette. Designed by Lois, she creates her garments locally and sustainably, from fabrics such as bamboo rayon and soy, all handmade in her studio in beautiful Vancouver. The greatest part about Lois is that she is petite, enabling her to relate to the women that have a hard time finding clothes that truly fit. She marvels over the thrill of being able to finally “offer women the option of having their clothes custom made to their own measurements and requirements.” In my eyes, clothes are always more fabulous when the designer has you in mind, no matter what size, shape, or body type!

The biggest appeal for the Christin Tina line is the versatility. Each dress, top, sweater, and jacket is so unique, and the layered wrap-around design can be worn a multitude of ways. It ultimately showcases your individual personality as a wearer, and really indicates Lois’ strength as a designer. I’m head over heels for the bamboo jersey wrap dresses, which come in many colours and styles, from fitted to flowy. I love the tie in the front, which can be girlishly in a bow, or casually in a knot. Like I said, versatility! Lois also designs gorgeous white Grecian-style wedding dresses that would flatter any glowing bride. And, probably my favourite piece from the collection, is the large collared jacket with a perfect tie that accentuates the waist. It’s structured, but soft, which don’t always go hand in hand – but with Christin Tina they lace together perfectly.


The Christin Tina line runs a price range from $35-$300, proving that eco-friendly fashion can also be affordable. You can purchase these designs from the Etsy store and also visit the Facebook fan page as well. Summer weather will soon be dazzling the citizens of Vancouver, so be sure to come to Portobello West’s Summer market on June 27th at the Rocky Mountaineer Station – and possibly pick up a perfect summer outfit from Christin Tina!

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Cherry Blossom into Summer with Eco-Friendly Clothing!

Thursday, May 20th, 2010

About two months ago, I started using bamboo sheets. I think it was like 3 years ago when I was in a textiles class where my instructor was raving about the benefits of using this stuff. It’s a natural antibacterial fabric, meaning it blocks bacteria growth. That’s great and everything, but one of the main reasons why I use it is because I cover myself in layers and layers of blankets so most of the time, I wake up with cold sweats (mostly from nightmares LOL, I’m so not trying to gross you out, btw! haha). Anyways, I’m not here to rave about sheets, I’m here to rave about a brand that is both trendy and eco-friendly: Cherry Blossom.

Deanna Milligan, the mastermind behind Cherry Blossom, is what we call a mompreneur. Deanna is a self taught designer residing in Tsawwassen, BC  and is also an actress so it’s kind of obvious that she truly lives for the arts and for her two daughters!  All of her stuff is made from bamboo jersey and is manufactured in Vancouver. However, one of the coolest parts of her designs (other than being eco-friendly), is that all of the images she uses have been created off of her own computer first.

Deana describes the images on her clothing as tattoos and as a canvas for her artwork. She believes that one of the reasons why people have such a strong attraction to her clothing is because they feel like they’re wearing something that is authentic and soulful. Cherry Blossom has been featured in many fashion magazines and newspapers such as Fashion Magazine and Flare, so it’s definitely nice to know that Deanna’s talent has been noticed and recognized nationwide for what her brand represents.

Going back to what I was saying at the beginning of this post, now is definitely the PERFECT opportunity for you all to hop on the Cherry Blossom train and pick up one of her pieces since it’s about to get mighty hot outside. You’ll be keeping dry and fighting off sweat in the summer sun and will look trendy all in one! Talk about killing two birds with one stone, right?

Deanna and all of her eco-friendly goodness will be at Portobello West Market on May 30th from 12-6 at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. So definitely make her vendor one of your must see’s when you’re there, you won’t be disappointed!

:)

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