Chick Lit

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T09:18:00.002-04:00

Happy Independence Day to our American readers! Today, cities across the US will blow up around $130 million worth of fireworks, celebrating freedom from British rule.

Ironic, considering Britain is now one of America's most important allies and our 6th largest trading partner...

So this 4th, light some roman candles and pinwheels, eat BBQ, and kiss a Brit for luck. Happy 4th!

Do you have holiday plans?

Happy Canada Day

2009-07-01T08:13:00.003-04:00

Hey, Happy Canada Day, eh?

Raise a Moosehead with your friends, sit back and enjoy the fireworks!

Sorry Toronto. I wonder how many people will be setting off their own fireworks, since the city union is celebrating Bah Humbug Day?

This Week on ChickAdvisor

2009-06-29T11:24:00.008-04:00

Our Canadian Designer Series is back, with NADA We help you pick the best beach...
... and the best patio restaurants this summer!8 Products for a Hair-Free Summer Hot Topic: How do you deal with discomfort during "that time of the month"?

RIP Farrah Fawcett

2009-06-25T22:40:00.005-04:00

On any other day, Farrah's passing would have been more than a just footnote. So much more than someone who "also died" the same day as Michael Jackson.

This morning, Charlie's Angels alum Farrah Fawcett, 62, succumbed to cancer. She will be remembered as much for her work as for the scandals and tabloid fodder her fame produced.

And, of course, the hair. How many countless hours did we all spend before the mirror with a big aerosol bottle of spray trying to achieve her look? No comment.

Rest In Peace, Farrah. You will not be forgotten.

Michael Jackson is Dead

2009-06-25T18:44:00.005-04:00

It is being reported that Michael Jackson, 50, passed away today after suffering a cardiac arrest. There is no word yet on what may have caused it.

The "Thriller" entertainer was huge when I was young, and I can hardly think of my elementary and junior high school years without hearing his music like a movie soundtrack in my head. My gym teacher was so obsessed, she had us do a lap of "moonwalk" around the gym during the warm-ups.

Michael - bless your heart - you were as weird as they come. Maybe even a little creepy. But we love you and will miss you sorely.

It's a bad day to be wearing a shark suit

2009-06-24T13:05:00.003-04:00

It's a balmy 32 degrees in Toronto today and some poor sap is stuck in a shark suit down by the water front. We shudder to think how hot it must be under all of that.

It figures...

Gallery Glam: Art and Nails at Lux

2009-06-23T09:41:00.004-04:00

Recently, the Lux Spa of Yorkville celebrated the launch of their new spa/gallery concept: come to Lux to enjoy Canada’s best pedicure (as voted by Glow Magazine), while simultaneously viewing one of the beautiful photography, painting or collage collections being featured. For one month starting on June 12, Lux will be featuring the digital photography of Toronto artist Liz Gesicki.

Manicure stations at Lux

I was impressed by Liz’s beautiful macro photography as well as the inviting atmosphere and luxury of Lux Spa. It was a pleasure meeting spa owner Cathy Mancini, who clearly has a great passion for her spa and its customers. I found her support of the Toronto art community inspiring, and she hopes that other artists will take the opportunity to pair up in this spa/gallery experience in the future.

Liz Gesicki and Cathy Mancini

While I visited the spa, I enjoyed a pampering manicure by Angie. Clearly, Lux Spa places a great emphasis on hygiene, as every tool she used was presented in a sterilized package prepared for my treatment.

My pretty new nails

What makes Lux unique is the “waterless manicure”. Unlike a typical mani, I did not soak my hands in water. Angie explained that this actually weakens the nails, which is something we certainly don’t want! The treatment features LoveFresh products in her spa, which is a 98-100% all-natural Toronto based line. One of my favourite products used was the LoveFresh pomegranate sugar scrub-- it smelled delicious!

Pedicure stations

I also had my eyebrows tidied up by Angie. The brow shaping was thorough and took into account my face shape and features.

Liz Gesicki

During my manicure I admired the displayed artwork. Liz Geisicki is a wonderful photographer, and in the future I hope to see more of her work around the city. My favourite piece of Liz’s, although not featured on the spa walls, was a macro shot of chocolate chip cookie dough-- Yum!

by Amanda Schulze

ChickAdvisor Book Club: Love the One You're With

2009-06-22T19:29:00.003-04:00

We're pleased to announce the next title for our ChickAdvisor Book Club! Emily Giffin is a household name for any fan of chick lit-- and if not, she surely will be. Love The One You're With is her latest, recently rereleased in paperback.

Ellen and Andy's first year of marriage doesn't just seem perfect, it is perfect. There is no question how deep their devotion is, and how naturally they bring out the best in each other. But one fateful afternoon, Ellen runs into Leo for the first time in nearly a decade. Leo, the one who brought out the worst in her. Leo, the one who left her heartbroken with no explanation. Leo, the one she could never quite forget. When his reappearance ignites long-dormant emotions, Ellen begins to question whether the life she's living is the one she's meant to live. Love the One You're With is a powerful story about one woman at the crossroads of true love and real life.

This book is perfect for anyone who's wondered about The One That Got Away, What If? and If I Had Only Known... I just finished reading the advance copy I received and recommend it highly.

30 of you lovelies will receive a free autographed copy from Emily! The lucky selectees have already been notified, so if you didn't hear from us please head out and buy a copy today. (Pssst-- your odds of winning a future freebie increase with participation!)

Best prices:

United States
$10.04 Books-A-Million (member price)
$10.94 Amazon.com

Canada
$11.19 Chapters (member price)
$11.32 Amazon.ca

Stay tuned to the forums for the start of our discussions. What is the ChickAdvisor Book Club? Click here for more info.

What's on ChickAdvisor This Week

2009-06-22T15:45:00.008-04:00

Top trends this summer

Icey Summer Treats Recipes

Our latest episode of ChickChat TV: Mascara Makeover

Wedding Series: Bridal Beauty Tips

Pic's from our 5th ShopCrawl, Recessionista

Our Interview with bestselling chick lit author, Emily Giffin Hot Topic: Transitioning to a new Pill?

Designer Deals of the Week:
Toronto ~ Has our Canadian Designer Series whet your appetite? Find your favourite designer duds at the sample sale this weekend.

New York ~ Alice + Olivia at 70% off? Say no more.

Los Angeles ~ Shoes by Betsey, Stuart, Roberto and more for 80% off - yes please!

FDJ French Dressing Jeans – Real Fit. Real Women.

2009-06-16T08:48:00.012-04:00

Does the thought of looking for a new pair of jeans make you cringe? You are not alone. Shopping for jeans is one of those dreaded activities that most of us would rather avoid, but it doesn’t have to be!

French Dressing Jeans (FDJ) is a Canadian based company which has been around for over 20 years, their products sold in over 2500 boutiques in North America and Europe. Their jeans are designed to fit real woman, and are perfect for some of us with a more curvy or womanly shape. Back angled pockets, flat seamed front pockets and an inside tummy band help to slim and tuck in all the right places, while maintaining a high level of comfort.

We wanted to see how FDJ jeans held up throughout the day, and 30 women had the opportunity to put them to the test-- zip lining, bike riding or horseback riding for an hour.

I am happy to report that not only were the jeans so comfortable I forgot I was even wearing them, they stretched nicely and held their shape. The stretch in the jeans is thanks to the use of Lycra instead of Spandex, as Lycra stretches/recovers the same in all fabrics, giving consistency in fit.

For the ladies who prefer more pizazz in their denim, check out some of the new jeans being released to stores in July which feature some back pocket crystals, or “bling”, dark overdye washes, and some fun coloured jeans. FJD are found in sizes 4 – 18, and retail at $77 - $120.

To find a boutique near you that sells FDJ, visit www.fdj.ca

by Amanda Schulze

The Time Traveler's Wife Movie Trailer

2009-06-15T23:33:00.002-04:00

Ok, admit. How many of you are dying to see this the minute it hits theaters??

This Week on ChickAdvisor

2009-06-15T22:37:00.010-04:00

Our best picks for Father's Day (suspenders not included)
New PRC offer! Now let's see if you really can have a happy period...
Fine summer dining on the cheap
Going under the knife... without the knife
Vid of the Week: Asking random ladies to take their makeup off in public (it ain't pretty... or was it?)
Hot Topic: So your guy retreats into The Cave. Is that bad?

Levy Canada Fall 09’ Outerwear Preview

2009-06-15T09:00:00.005-04:00

Food, fashion and fab freebies? What more can a girl ask for! The Chicks from ChickAdvisor recently attended a luncheon fashion show presented by Levy Canada Fashion Company at Jamie Kennedy Gardiner Restaurant. The event featured five new outwear collections by Buffalo, Betsey Johnson, Esprit, Laundry and Perry Ellis.

The fashion show was a sneak peek to Fall ’09 outerwear. The coats, inspired by a military silhouette, are form fitting and perfectly tailored. The modern twist will surely keep you ladies pretty and cozy this fall.

Take a look at what’s to come!

Perry Ellis: The classic manly silhouettes with surprising twists like interior quilted accents will update anyone’s look.

Buffalo: Buffalo combines urban edge with rich fall inspired colors to create a perfect blend.

Laundry: From stylish feminine pieces to belt puff jackets, Laundry Fall coats will sure satisfy the fashion-forwards.

Esprit: Esprit creates elegant yet youthful pieces that scream casual luxury.

Betsey Johnson: Betsey combines funky and sweet with laces, leopard prints and satiny fabrics. These gems will sure get you notice this fall.

So what do you think? Would you snatch one of these up this fall?

Vera Wang to Compete on 'Dancing with the Stars'?

2009-06-10T22:30:00.004-04:00

Say it ain't so!

Some people in the know claim it's true. I for one have never followed a whole season. This, however, could tempt me. Rumor has it she may design her own costumes! That would be reason enough, I'm thinking.

Thoughts?

VeraWang.com

Sun Awareness Week Sunscreen Picks

2009-06-09T09:03:00.000-04:00

Did you know there was even such a thing as Sun Awareness Week? Well, it's happening now. It certainly makes sense to pay extra attention to your sunscreen as the weather gets warmer.

While many of us may stick to certain brands for nostalgic reasons (who doesn't love the smell of banana boat?), the products we used as kids might not be the best for us now. Consider the SPF4 we wore as teenagers when trying to get the minimum coverage possible. Ouch! These days pale is in, thanks to starlets like Anne Hathaway and Scarlett Johansson. So which products are right for you?

Body
For a day by the beach or lying by the pool, we love L'Oreal Ombrelle Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 15 or 30. These formulas are reasonably non-greasy and provide excellent coverage in both the lotion and spray on varieties. If you're playing beach volleyball consider the sport version, which won't come off when you sweat.

Face
We're wild for Lise Watier's Sun Smart Universal UV Shield in SPF 30. The paraben free creamy smooth formulation immediately melts into your skin with no grease whatsoever - and, knock on wood, it doesn't seem to cause break outs!

Lips
Choose a breathable lipbalm with SPF, such as Burt's Bees Sun Protecting Lip Balm with SPF 8. It's made with titanium dioxide, a naturally-occurring mineral which creates a micro-fine barrier to reflect the sun's harmful rays.

Au Naturale?
If you prefer a natural form of sunblock your best option is Titanium and Zinc, which can be found at the drugstore. Yes, it's white and pasty, but if you're a health nut you'll prefer this over a chemical concoction. Celeste Lutrario, VP of research and development at Burt's Bees says Titanium and Zinc are natural elements that our bodies know and can process, which makes them a better alternative. However, if you can't bear to be seen in public looking like the Pillsbury Dough Boy use a regular sunscreen, but avoid going over 30 SPF since the higher the SPF, the more chemicals are likely to be present.

What are your favourite sunscreen products?

What's on ChickAdvisor This Week

2009-06-08T10:24:00.005-04:00

The trend setting landscape is changing. How?
Top rated foundations for a flawless look
Yum! Another fabulous seasonal recipe
Hot Topic: Pre-Nups. Yea or Nay?

Newsflash: Look for another hot Product Review Club offer coming this week! Not a member yet? Click here for more information.

Toronto: Anthony Hopkins Art Exhibit

2009-06-03T10:28:00.008-04:00

My favourite, Anthony Hopkins is more than just an acting legend. Did you know he is also an accomplished artist and composer? Hopkins has referred to himself as a 'shy artist' but thankfully, due to the efforts of his wife, Stella, his artwork is shown internationally... and currently, right here in Toronto (Mississauga) until June 10th!

If you'd like to take a peek, the exhibition of Sir Anthony Hopkins’ acrylics on canvas and works in ink on paper runs until June 10th at the Harbour Gallery, 1697 Lakeshore West, Mississauga, Ontario. Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Harbour Gallery director Jackie Bryant describes Hopkins’ work as evocative and claims that no viewer of his art is unmoved. ”His work has a magnetism that draws you in, not unlike the many characters he has played in his films. We feel very honoured to have been chosen to promote his work in Toronto.”
Hopkins debuted his paintings in 2005 in San Antonio, Texas, where more than 100 of his works sold in less than a week with part of the proceeds benefiting the Born to Read Literacy Foundation. His work is now scheduled to exhibit in cities such as Los Angeles, London, Munich, Dubai, Beijing, Tokyo and Moscow.

He paints in his Malibu studio almost every day and creates acrylic abstracts on canvas using only a palette knife, in addition to works in ink on paper. His abstract landscapes reference a childhood growing up near Port Talbot, in Margam, South Wales. Memories of village life and a love of the mountainous areas of the region come-to-life in his fictional abstract landscapes. He also cites the big skies and open plains of the American Midwest, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah as inspiration.

A true artist, Hopkins says he paints for the sheer pleasure of it. He often quotes Henry Miller, “Paint what you like and die happy.” Fortunately, Hopkins is painting what he likes and Canadians can now see the work of a true creative genius.

For more of Sir Hopkins' art, visit his website:
http://www.margamfineart.com/

Or read here about how he installed my wallpaper

This Week on ChickAdvisor

2009-06-01T13:48:00.009-04:00

Tips for the Grill, from Dad How to pick the perfect pet for you
What's new in fragrances
A preview for the ShopCrawlers
Hot Topic: Have you ever been The Other Woman?

Restaurant Deals:
Canada: Love you some Ruth's Chris? Get a $88-value gift card for only $44!

USA: Buy One Entrée, Get One Free at T.G.I.Friday's.

ShopCrawl over 90% Sold Out

2009-05-28T10:55:00.009-04:00

Quick Reminder for Toronto-area Chicks: There are just a few ShopCrawl tickets left. I doubt they'll last through today, so hurryhurryhurry!

See latest updates here

UPDATE: The tickets have now sold out. See you at the Crawl!

Newsletter May 27 2009

2009-05-26T23:26:00.001-04:00

Recessionista ShopCrawl Thursday June 18th, 2009

Hey Everyone!

We have another fabulous ShopCrawl lined up for Thursday June 18th! Our 5th ShopCrawl, Recessionista will be in the Toronto Bloor/Yorkville neighborhood and is guaranteed to help y'all forget about... uh, the recession! How you ask? Because the discounts are silly good, and you get so much for free it doesn't make financial sense NOT to go!

Your $25 ticket gets you:
Shopping Deals - Guided shopping with exclusive discounts from participating boutiques including - The Body Shop, The Stillwater Spa Boutique, Nine West, Roots, Diesel, Over the Rainbow, Calvin Klein Underwear, eleven boutique, The Gap and Banana Republic.

Swag - Over $150 worth of free swag per person from Maybelline New York, Dove, The Body Shop, Stillwater Spa, Nine West.

Party - A complimentary cocktail and snacks from Flow in Yorkville, a chance to win some great prizes and a fashion walk off for the best outfit purchased that night. Makeovers will also be available from our makeup expert, Joy David-Tilberg.

Tickets - $25 and must be purchased in advance online here.

No idea what a ShopCrawl is? Check out the vid from our last ShopCrawl starring some of you!

New Wedding Series
Wedding expert, Cynthia Martyn will be sharing her best wedding tips with brides-to-be in a recurring monthly advice column. The first article, Choose the Perfect Song for your First Dance is posted here.

New Book Club Opportunity
We are working some major authors and publishers to discuss their latest popular books. An upcoming interview will feature Emily Giffin, bestselling author of Baby Proof, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and Love the One You're With. She answers your burning questions and is offering some free books to Club members! Submit your questions for Emily on the dedicated forum post here. If you aren't part of our Book Club, click over for more information.

More goodies to come. Stay tuned!

XOXO,
Ali & The ChickAdvisor Team

ShopCrawl 50% Sold Out

2009-05-26T22:20:00.009-04:00

The Recessionista ShopCrawl is already 50% sold out.

Don't delay! This ShopCrawl is our biggest one yet - your swag alone is worth over $150, plus free food, prizes, makeovers.... the list goes on.

Click here to buy your $25 ticket

Full details and the latest updates available here

This Week on ChickAdvisor

2009-05-25T12:39:00.010-04:00

It's that time again! Get your tix for THE shopping event of the season
What's big in hair (hint: it's not Big Hair)
Our Wedding Series kicks off
Food you can use on your face-- yes, really
Hot Topic: Flirty sundresses showcase your beautiful legs. But what if those gams are looking a little nawsty? Share your tips with us!

Canadian Deal of the Week: 50% off Danier's entire inventory of jackets!

American Deal of the Week: 40% off your entire order at Stila!

Talking to Emily Giffin

2009-05-24T23:41:00.006-04:00

Any fan of chick lit is more than familiar with Emily Giffin, best-selling author of 4 books (and counting): Baby Proof, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and Love the One You're With.

You're about to get to know her just a little better. She has graciously agreed to field your questions in an upcoming interview! Please submit your questions this week on this dedicated forum thread and look for the interview coming in June.

photo credit: EmilyGiffin.com

MonkeyBiz Artwork Empowers Women

2009-05-19T23:31:00.010-04:00

Ingram Gallery has partnered with Eat My Words to present the first Canadian Exhibition of MonkeyBiz beaded art. MonkeyBiz is a non-profit organization that promotes empowerment and employment opportunity for disadvantaged women in South Africa through beaded artwork.

MonkeyBiz supplies the colourful glass beads to women artisans to create dolls and animals. Each of the 450 women involved in the project are paid for the artwork they produce. Since they work from home, they can look after their families and avoid transport cost. All the funds generated from the sales are put back in the community as well as the MonkeyBiz Wellness Clinic which provides skills, training and health support for low income HIV-positive women.

We had the opportunity to attend the opening reception of the Bead By Bead show at the Ingram Gallery in Toronto. Each African beadwork tells a different story and shows the great talent of women in South Africa. The beautiful beaded artworks range from $50 - $1000.

The Ingram Gallery is running the collection from May 15 – 23, 2009. For more information, visit IngramGallery.com.
by Sumaya Khan

Ali's Dolce Vita Moment

2009-05-19T19:28:00.004-04:00

This falls under, "how cool is that?" and I just had to share. Over the long weekend, Alex and I spent some time meandering around Yorkville, poking into flower shops, small boutiques and new stores that recently opened. This is called research.

On our way back to the car, I noticed a tiny new Italian espresso bar called Zaza. I was carrying cut roses we had purchased from the flower markets on Avenue Rd ($12 for 12 roses!), so I was anxious to get home and put them in water, but I couldn't resist because it was exactly like the espresso bars David Rocco talks about in my favourite cookbook in the world, David Rocco's Dolce Vita.

Owner Raffaele was singing and dancing as he worked the machine, churning out two velvety espresso macchiato, served Italian style with a small glass of water on the side. As I mentally started writing my review ( I do this all the time now whether I remember to write it down or not), I noticed a group of older Italian gentlemen sitting outside and a younger guy that looked just like David Rocco in the center of it all. I commented to Raffaele that his espresso bar was just like what I'd read in this cook book and that the guy outside looks just like David Rocco. "Ya, that's him! We grew up in the same town together! He's my good friend!"

I couldn't resist the opportunity to introduce myself and he was so kind. I felt like a bit of a boob interrupting the conversation but given the circumstances, can you blame me? ;)