Posts Tagged ‘local’
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
Tags: Art, Design, Designer, Eco Fashion, Handmade, Herrohachi, local
Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
Friday, June 25th, 2010
There’s something that needs to be said about beautiful photographs and some words that come to my mind are “what a wonderful world”. I think often times we take the simple things in life for granted by constantly flooding our minds with work, relationships, and things that shouldn’t be over analyzed and made complicated but are. We forget to recognize and take in the humidity of a warm summer’s day, appreciate the aroma of freshly cut grass and even see the authenticity and beauty of an old building that we walk by every single day. Photographs convey forgotten and under-appreciated moments that are timeless: My Eye Photography does that to perfection.
Tamara Lee, a local Vancouver artist, began her journey at a very young age with a toy camera. After taking various photography classes in high school, Langara College and Focal Point, Tamara developed her own process that enabled her to mold her craft into something beautiful and eye watering.
With digital media and photoshop taking photography by storm, Tamara still believes that there is something to be said about film. All of her work is shot on 35mm and medium format film, hand printed and uniquely perfected by herself. It takes a lot of patience, talent, and love for what you do to create an actual process that could have otherwise been done with technology. If that’s not dedication, I don’t know what is.
My Eye Photography will be at Portobello West Market this Sunday, so make sure you visit Tamara and tell her how amazing she is!
See you all on Sunday!
Tags: Art, Design, Designer, Events, local
Posted in Art, Designer, Fashion, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
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!
Tags: Handmade, Jewellery, local, Papaya Blue
Posted in Accessories, Designer, Fashion, Innovative, Jewellery | Comments Off
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!
Tags: Christin Tina, Dresses, Eco-friendly, local, Sustainable, Wrap style
Posted in Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Innovative | Comments Off
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!
Tags: Art, Eco Fashion, Eco-friendly, Fashion, local
Posted in Art, Artist, Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Innovative | Comments Off
Wednesday, May 19th, 2010
Looking through upcoming designers for the May 30th market, I stumbled upon Revamped by Jenn, a line of handbags that are revamped from vintage fabrics. Starting out with reupholstering couches, cushions, and the sort, Jenn’s career path took her to a new place that she could express herself: the world of fashion. Using eco-friendly and recyclable materials, Jenn takes a simple purse and molds it into a masterpiece. All of her designs are done locally and by Jenn herself, proving her craft of handmade items.
I love the classic detailing and casual style of Jenn’s designs. If I saw someone carrying one on the street, I would definitely do a double take! My favourite is the use of a typical mens tie as the strap and detailing – it’s innovative and so chic! What I also thought was a great attribute is the use of soft coloured leather; it really adds an edgy element while keeping the signature down-to-earth and vintage look of Jenn’s designs. It’s really apparent that each purse has it’s own style, proving that it can add such impact to, say, a casual outfit of jeans and a tee.
What I love the most is that each piece is completely unique and has its own identity; if you buy from department stores, it’s certain, without a doubt, that someone else will be sporting the same bag as you down the street. Revamped by Jenn let’s the buyer decide on a one-of-a-kind product that is solely theirs, which I think is the best part about the designers that Portobello West brings to Vancouver. Don’t forget to come down to Rocky Mountaineer Station to check out our market on May 30th, 12-6pm. Support local, chic, and breathtaking designs!
Tags: Accessories, Eco-friendly, Handmade, local, Purses, Revamped By Jenn, Sustainable, Vintage
Posted in Accessories, Designer, Fashion, Innovative | Comments Off
Thursday, May 6th, 2010
You know when you walk into a store like Aldo Accessories and you see so many cute and trendy pieces of jewelry and you think to yourself “wow, this would be SO FABULOUS if it didn’t have ____” and then you look at the price tag and you put it down. This is what I do just about every time I go into a Forever 21, Aldo, H&M, and etc. Don’t get me wrong, all of these stores are great places to shop for different occasions and reasons but most of the time, I find myself mostly looking at something, thinking about it, and then walking away without ever going back for it. They say if you love something set it free, but SERIOUSLY if I saw something I loved, I would buy it.
Keep in mind, I would never blog about something I didn’t love and would not purchase myself so writing blogs are kind of a big deal to me . Here it is, three words: Sleepy Moon Designs, need I say more? Probably, because most of you are probably wondering what the heck I’m talking about. Zoe, the creator of Sleepy Moon Designs, grew up loving art because of her upbringing and it wasn’t until recently that she began her journey as a designer. The name Sleepy Moon Designs actually comes from her love for the moon (how cute!!) and how it’s ” almost like one big glowing gemstone in the sky”, which is very apparent in her creations.
Sleepy Moon Designs is a jewelry line that prides itself on modern yet classy jewelry to fit any occasion with just about any outfit. It’s very affordable, ranging from $18.00- $79.00 US, and are timeless pieces that will never go out of style. The color combination and choice of materials and gems are put together in such a cohesive manner where the talent of the designer reigns supreme in each piece.
The difference from purchasing jewelry from a chain conglomerate and an independent retailer or designer is the overall aesthetic of the piece. The pieces you can find at Sleepy Moon Designs are one of a kind pieces made and put together by one designer with one vision; you wouldn’t find this stuff anywhere else and I don’t know about you, but that would make me feel extra special, especially when wearing it.
Seriously. Can you tell how much I absolutely LOVE her stuff? Because I do, SO much!
Sleepy Moon Designs will be at the Portobello West Market on May 30th from 12-6 at the Rocky Mountaineer Station, so make this vendor a definite go see. You won’t be disappointed!
Toodles for now
Tags: Charm Bracelets, Eco Fashion, Fashion, Jewelry, local, Ola Designs, Vintage
Posted in Accessories, Art, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Jewellery, Uncategorized | 4 Comments »
Wednesday, May 5th, 2010
Being a woman isn’t always easy, especially when it comes to our skin. We wear makeup to work each day, reapply when it’s time for a night on the town, and fall asleep with mascara still lingering on our eyelashes. Instead of covering our blemishes, most of the time makeup is clogging our pores and causing irritation – which is where Affera Cosmetics jumps in. Arabic for colours of earth, Affera Cosmetics is a line of naturally pure mineral makeup that is manufactured locally in Burnaby, British Columbia. The brand has made a pact with sustainability; not only are the products free from fillers and preservatives, but even the packaging is recyclable and biodegradable.
The products themselves are enticing and versatile. The 100% Mineral Foundation can be found in thirteen different shades, and contains a loose powder to leave skin with ample coverage, without dryness. The eyeshadow palette is numerous and can also be substituted as an eyeliner by adding a drop of water and a thinner brush. One of the most important parts of applying makeup correctly is the use of an amazing brush – the Kabuki Brush is made of soft, synthetic hair and has a rounded shape, perfect for applying the loose foundation and blush.
Affera Cosmetics doesn’t deal only with makeup; the company has created new products that directly help with skincare. With summer approaching and the sun starting to shine, SPF is a factor that should always be included. With the 100% Mineral Sun Block, tinted in the same shades as all of the foundations, skin is provided with a perfect barrier against the harsh sunlight rays. Made with Titanium Oxide, and Iron & Zinc Oxides, it’s described as a physical blocker, reflecting UV rays and radiation. The application is the best part – no more gooey, greasy sunscreen, just brush on and go!
Prices range from about $15 – $50, depending on the product. You can find Affera Cosmetics at our Portobello West Market on May 30th at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. You can also visit their website for more information on Affera’s diverse products and the company itself!
Tags: Affera, Cosmetics, local, Makeup, Mineral
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Wednesday, April 21st, 2010
Once upon a time there lived a group of students at a University not so far away from here, that each year strive to put on an amazing fashion show benefiting a different charity. Now this year, this club has decided to put all proceeds towards The Cinderella Project- a local charity who’s sole purpose is to celebrate the achievement of high school students who have overcome adversity in reaching their goal of graduation. Students are provided with formal attire, by their very own fairy godmother (of, course) and then are sent off to celebrate their fairytale night in style.
This years fashion show, Fashionably Ever After, as well as many other events, are put on by the Chinese Varsity Club at the University of British Columbia. This club of 1200 members is led by 70 executive team members and prides themselves on being multicultural and using their powers for good, so don`t let the name fool you. These events are open to the public so don`t be a Debbie downer and cop out because you don`t think you`re invited, because you are .
Just to get you excited, here`s some stuff from Fala`s Spring/Summer line. I bet it looks better in person
Fashionably Ever After will showcase several local designers and boutiques such as Fala,Killa, Wanny Tang and so soo many others! But that’s not all, purchasing a ticket to this event will also get you free cover to the after party held at AuBar Nightclub. Although this fashion show is an all ages event, all Cinderellers and Cinderellas under the age of 19 will have to have their after-party at home. Fairy godmothers can only do so much. All this charity goodness is making us at PW feel a little left out, so we’ve decided to share the love of fashion by providing ALL attendees with FREE PASSES TO OUR MAY MARKET! Now if that isn’t reason enough to go, I don’t know what is.
So here’s the breakdown of the event. Tickets are 25$ that include both the show, the after party AS WELL as a free pass to our May market. It will be held at the swanky Pendulum Gallery @ the HSBC Building (885 West Georgia Street) on Saturday, May 1, 2010. Doors open @ 7pm and the show goes on until 10pm! For more information about this event click here and to order tickets please email inquiry@ubccvc.com. To find out more about The Cinderella Project, check our their website at thecinderellaproject.com.
There’s no better way to support a charity than to support it with
fashion, parties and Portobello West.
and so they all lived fashionably ever after…
Tags: charity, Clothing, Design, Fashion, fashion show, local
Posted in Clothing, Designer, Fashion, Fashionista, Innovative, Uncategorized | Comments Off
Thursday, April 15th, 2010
One thing I love about the art world is its versatility; there’s the ability to keep a signature style, but also so much room for experimenting with new and exciting ideas. Kris G. Brownlee, the brains behind the quirky art label aCageyBee finds perfect harmony between art, pop culture, and fashion, while still maintaining her own identity throughout her designs. Fresh from a solo art gallery showing at Massey Theater on April 9th, Kris’ artwork is gaining recognition and praise for her unique style of drawing. To me, it’s almost as if she takes her inspiration and pulls out the dainty components, leaving harsh lines with captivating eyes and solemn faces. The artwork of aCageyBee is sultry, but elegant, which is a perfect combination.
Kris is influenced not only by the “CageyBee” character (which I love) but there’s references to popular movies, celebrities and children’s books as well. The greatest thing about Kris is that she doesn’t leave her buyers with just simple prints. She has taken her favourite and most popular artwork and made them into resin-filled pendents, book covers, and postcards. Even her multiple prints can be found in all different sizes. This lady is definitely not generic! My absolute favourite is the Audrey Hepburn and I adore all of her Alice in Wonderland designs.
aCageyBee artwork is amazing and affordable – prices range from $6 to $45 for the reproduced prints, jewelry, and postcards, and the original paintings range from $48 – $400. Find out more about Kris Brownlee at her website, and you can purchase her designs online from her Etsy shop. Don’t forget that she’ll also be at our Portobello West Market in Vancouver on April 25th. Hope to see you all there!
Tags: aCageyBee, Jewelry, Kris Brownlee, local, Paintings, Prints, Vancouver
Posted in Accessories, Art, Artist, Designer, Fashionista, Jewellery | 3 Comments »
