As brand representative to luxury skin care brands Laura Mercier and ReVive, Liah spits her time between Vancouver and travelling around the globe, to create flawless faces. She utilizes her creative background to generate spectacular outfits.
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Liah continually shifts her style with her personal development. Her creative essence is what drives her looks forward. A master of interior design, Liah likes to play with shapes and accessories. Collecting vintage handbags, and adding new classics, like her Hermes shoulder sling in signature orange, Liah keeps her look current and original. Always on trend, yet looking completely natural.
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Her current incarnation looks effortless, but I am sure she takes time to choreography each look. Liah says that her latest secret to shopping, is to shop everywhere; she doesn’t discriminate based on brand anymore. Once a label whore, Liah now loves to find a good deal at J Crew, while still mixing-and-matching with Phillp Lim.
Jumping into my seat, I was so excited to see The Amazing Spider-Man. Question: is it amazing? I don’t really blog about movies unless an AMAZING fashion collection hits the screen, or fashion is a topic in the plot, yet I felt compelled to write about Spider-Man.
“The Amazing Spider Man”
“The Amazing Spider Man”
“The Amazing Spider Man”
When I heard that Emma Stone, from “The Help,” and Andrew Garfield were going to be staring in the new Spider-Man film, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. After Stone’s red carpet moment at the Academy Awards, 2012, I felt she was going to bring fire to the role. Garfield, I felt would bring that slender clean look that Spider-Man needed–he did. At the movie première, both bought golden looks to the red carpet, so how did it all fall flat.
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“The Amazing Spider Man”
Hollywood loves to make epic movies, and The Amazing Spiderman is part of the formula. Shuffle the deck, minus cartoonish rhetoric, and boom you have a new story. The movie swings, as spiderman does from building to building, but touching new nerves along the way. You already know what’s going to happen, you just don’t know when it will swing into action. Why make something that reeks of the original, to only obtain no new traction–money?! The new film did break box-office records.
“The Amazing Spider Man”
“The Amazing Spider Man”
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After an amazing performance in the Academy Award nominated film, “The Help,” Stone had no lines of memorial, and no performance moment to capture movie magic. A slender more refined, Garfield fills out the Spider-Man costume like fine wine–delicious. However, the only new idea that The Amazing Spider-Man delivers is pain. The human element is really all that has changed, Spider-Man gets hurt with bumps and bruises–a man behind a mask. I see a page from “Batman Begins” really helped turn the page–just not enough.
For die-hard fans I am sure this movie will still be a hit. The only memorable moment is Stan Lee’s cameo, entirely worth the price of admission. This is only my lonely opinion, and I hope for most, this new film will not disappoint. Still watchable like every epic film, I just wish amazing was left out of the title.
“The Amazing Spider Man”
“The Amazing Spider Man”
“The Amazing Spider Man”
What did hold me inside the film was no more Mary Jane. An actress playing a wannabe–that’s new!? I am glad we have someone with a brain to help Spider-Man this time. I am not a blockbuster movie guy, and I have never been into comics, but I do like comic book genre films. When Spider-Man hit broadway, Vogue showcased its costume design, and I lined up for my ticket. Fashion is created by rebels; outcasts who live on the edge, who create in the shadows of reality. Like fashion, comic books create fantasy for those who want to add color to our reality.
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What originally drew me to these movies was the element of wonderment. A movie is a dream come to life highlighted with romanticism. That maybe the film student in me talking, but stylistic graphics dance fluidly across the screen to capture audience members. Spiderman is built on a wealth of history. Therefore, I think a departure from the original storyline would have added greater depth with stylish movie magic. Just like, Bruce Wayne learning to become a man, and IronMan taking grip of his testosterone, The Amazing Spider-Man needed to find heart.
The shoe seen round the world, Willow Smith sporting the Y3 high heel shoe, which was captured by every photographer for Spring 2012. I love the shoe!! Most talk shows and “news” shows kept talking about the price. Who cares, real fashion lovers don’t care about price, only style!!! Fuck the price, credit cards take care of that problem.
willow-smith-shoes: Y3
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Y3 Shoe
What Willow Smith’s fantastic shoe choice made me think about was Yohji Yamamoto. Before Rick Owens ruled street style, Yohji Yamamoto was giving us exaggerated shapes, while blending 80′s Punk into high fashion. Today, he uses Hip-Hop’s shapes, layered with 80′s Punk, and Hipper chic, if we can blend all those together. Well he did.
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Yohji Yamamoto’s Y3 collection, is a connection to street style. Willow Smith is a great example of how we can take apart what is on the runway and make it our own. Labels have become a thing of the past, as every Tom, Dick, and Sally sporting an LV logo bag. Today, real fashionistas still like designer fashion, but look, shape, and context mean so much more.
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Y3 takes all of Yohjo Yamamoto’s main ideas and makes them practical. Made in part with Adidas, Y3 can not be looked at as the little brother to Yohji, but a full on individual brand. Not made for everyone, Y3 take guts and confidence to wear. Goal for Spring, something Y3 to ignite my Spring wardrobe. What about you?
Fashion is all about discovering new talent, people, and style. NYFW is the best place and time to meet everyone. Between all the wonderful shows, I always like meeting new people, therefore understanding fashion and style a little further.
I first meet street style photographers, Wataru Shimosato and Young Jun Koo, whose style attracted my attention. The two photographers were shy to speak, but check out their blogs (I’M Koo and An Unknown Quantity) to see what wonderful people they snap around New York, even designers and the Queen of Mean, Anna Wintour, whom I love, line up to be immortalized by the photog friends.
Next up was a very well dressed woman, whose name I didn’t get, I think I was too in love with her cashmere coat to ask. This emerging fashion talent told me a little about her line and described her elegant style, of course all made by her, except, her fur collar, which was handed down by her grandma. Incorporating family history, and sentimental pieces is a great way to give your look originality and style (sorry, no photo, check out video).
Well, here she is as promised, Faustina Rose, a blog favourite. I meet this Lady Gaga look-a-like, although complete original herself (I am sure she is sick of the comparison). I wrote about her gob-smacking style a few posts back, but it took me a moment to discovery I was not speaking with a mere mortal, just check out her website. If you enjoy her style, she reveals some of her beauty secrets in our video. Ms. Rose has also been captured by our photographer friends.
Faustina Rose: IMKOO_NYFW6
Faustina Rose: IMKOO_NYFW6_2
Faustina Rose: IMKOO_NYFW6_3
After all my fashionistas, I bumped into some musical artist, Lily Halpern, whose rumoured to be dating, Harry Styles, from One Direction, England’s break-out boy band. This songstress seemed very busy during fashion week. I was a little shocked when I spotted her on E! News.
The last part of my video came with a blanket of mystery, no names, just info. I meet an RCA executive, whose wife designs hang bags, while interviewing her, she let it slip that her husband had signed a new artist. When I spoke with the mystery executive, he said I was getting a big scoop. I spoke with the new artist about her style and fashion week connection (check out video for her name).
I was doing some research for Tokyo Fashion Week, and I came across one of the coolest collections–FACETASM. I love when I find new things. This Spring I was obsessed with Rick Owens and Givenchy, but Facetasm seems to blend everything I love about both of those collections into one. Also, “hello,” everyone knows I love a scarf, and these are awesome!!
Facetasm Fall 2012
Facetasm Fall 2012
Facetasm Fall 2012
Facetasm Fall 2012
I’ve always felt that fashion today flows from Tokyo street style, into Paris Couture, and then New York mainstream. Milan is always doing its thing on the edge. When I spend time in Japan, I am always amazed that I can wear anything. New York street style is very edgy, like Tokyo, but there is something to Tokyo that is outrageous. Case and point, I am walking down the streets of Shibuya and this girl is waiting for her boyfriend to apply his make-up — flabbergasted! Anyway, I am not here debate “New York Street Style” and “Tokyo Street Style,” both are very unique and amazing to me.
Facetasm Fall 2012
Facetasm Fall 2012
Facetasm Fall 2012
Facetasm Fall 2012
The Facetasm collection designed by Hiromichi Ochiai, did a great job blending street style into a streamlined collection that is sophisticated and wearable. When a collection pushes the limits of style while keeping it wearable is always refreshing. Fashion produces so many collections, but for the average consumer most looks are not practical. This collection has some great fashion and style elements. Created for both men and women, this collection has wonderful points for all. I hope you will find as much inspiration from this collection as I did.
One question I get asked most “Is how do I become a fashion designer?” My answer is always “Don’t!” Few people really know what it takes to become a fashion designer. Real designers don’t ask, they do, it’s in their blood from birth. Why else would you put yourself through years of torture and ridicule, just to see your garment showcased on a body. Fashion is a high turnover consumer product, which is back dropped with trends, taste makers, and celebrity–I guess that is what makes fashion so fabulous and exciting. With Muse Closet, I want to pull that curtain back a little.
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After my design school debacle, I headed to Japan and licked my wounds for a few months, then I came back and headed to film school. Completely frustrated with my film, a classmate asked if I could use my fashion skill to report Vancouver Fashion Week. I accepted begrudgingly, as I was up to my neck in production work, and not looking to do anything with fashion. I had one condition: I didn’t want to be on camera. I was going to research the designers, and write questions for the hosts, and maybe some styling. Well, nope on all three. I did format the questions and research, but I ended up doing most of the on camera hosting duties, because their male host didn’t work out. What a stroke of luck. I found my place in fashion, and I realized why I didn’t go all the way with my fashion degree.
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I explain the latter because, while doing those interviews, during Vancouver Fashion Week, I meet one of the most intriguing designers, Arthur Lee. When I started the Muse Closet, five months ago, I chased Arthur for an interview from the start. It’s always hard to pin down a designer whose between Hong Kong and Vancouver. By chance, who was on my flight to New York Fashion Week this year? Arthur–interview booked. We finally sat down a few weeks ago, so he could tell me about his designs, philosophy, and artistic journey. This baritone speaking man captivated me with his voice, designs, and story.
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A full circle moment, as we started to speak. That Vancouver Fashion Week was both Arthur, and my destiny calling. He started his design business that year to prove to his family that he was serious, and I started my fashion commentary career.
I 5, New Mexico, right turn, “HOPE.” These are the words that brought Arthur full circle in his life. After years of turbulence to find his creative outlet, Arthur saw this sign of hope while driving through the New Mexico desert. At a cross-road in life, one must listen to find their passion, and thus he did. Arthur’s journey is being documented in a up-coming documentary about his life and company creation. I felt privileged to walk into his world.
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It all begins with a simple idea. Arthur has taken his graphic T-shirt line and turned it into a cult classic for Asian Bear culture, while captivating mainstream audiences. The former baker has created a recipe for success. Establishing his line, Ursus, in 2008, Arthur has not stopped creating. He partnered with charitable organization, Red Cross, after the Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami. The original T-shirts sold out. Next up, a younger, colourful, and cartoonish line named Beavy. Arthur believes that there is always “Light just ahead.” His giving nature is what makes his line interesting and creative.
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The concept to his business is KIS: “Keep it simple.” The clothes are not cumbersome, and comfy to wear. Therefore, business is something to grow with time, energy, and passion. These two concepts of travel and simplicity is what keeps Arthur moving. While creating the line he felt like a bear, always moving and traveling. Fashion to him is like this bear, never staying in one place, one mood, one style. I guess that is why it took me so long to track down this jet-setting designer. No wonder I found him at the airport.
What makes Arthur so interesting, to me, is his background into the world of design. I’ve always felt that real fashion designers jump out of the womb, as some do, but I realize that some take the long way. The long way is not always a bad thing. After suffering through a dot-com bust, an apocalyptic 9/11, and a manufacturing swindle– Arthur persevered. With his fashion roots in New York, Arthur moved back to Hong Kong to manufacture his line. He may have been born in Hong Kong, but Vancouver represents a part of his soul; Hong Kong’s fast pace lifestyle was a little much for this boomerang resident, but with time, his former city and friends have enveloped him.
Interview: Arthur and I
What I took away from my interview with Arthur was that “Without the past, you can not be what you are today.” Becoming a fashion designer takes guts, as it is one of the hardest and most competitive businesses. To find a mode of expression that encompasses our passion is not easy, therefore to discover yourself first is key. What I love about fashion is that it is always moving, developing, and changing. All while building on the past. When I was much younger I was told by a model scout that I needed to live more, after taking to Arthur I understand that statement to be true. What made Arthur’s line so memorable to me during Vancouver Fashion Week was the story. I still remember his words, “I want to express myself.” This is what clothes help us all do everyday, so take some time to discover yourself.
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I added this clip because, I think this is what you need to say when passion comes knocking at your door!
When I first conceptualized Muse Closet, I wanted to showcase individuals who optimized personal style. Personal style, to me, is achieved when you know who you are, and utilize fashion to express yourself. One of those people, who I believe, has great personal style is Daniel Maynard. I first meet Daniel a couple of years back when I was wandering the streets of Gastown in Vancouver. I walked into his studio, Young & Affluent, and found an instant connection with him. I use to be a buyer, and I love connecting with people in the fashion business. Daniel was genuine, funny, and smart. Therefore when I started Muse Closet, I really wanted to interview him about his style.
Daniel: Denim vest (hand done himself) and Plaid shirt with khaki pants
Daniel: Vest Details
Daniel: Accessories
Daniel: Boots
With school aways in my backdrop, I forgot about my interview list when I first created my blog, then at lunch with a friend from school, I spotted the coolest dressed guy across the street, it was Daniel! His look reminded me about why I wanted to discover people whose style worked seamlessly with their personality.
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Personality Ride
I contacted him, and he was more than happy to let me follow him around for a week and document his style for you all. Daniel is a fashion distributor and clothing representative. He tells us a little about how his company, Noble Gentlemen Trading and Young & Affluent showroom, which also showcase his style talent. The looks that are showcased in this post, I like because, he shows us how to punch casual into fashion stardom, his eclectic style is street fashion at its best.
Daniel: Dapper!! (Man bag is a must!)
Daniel: Details
Daniel: Dapper!! (Man bag is a must!)
Daniel: Details
One of the amazing things about Daniel is that he works side-by-side with his bother, Liam, who was more than happy to give me some dirt on Daniel. What I enjoyed most about talking to Daniel was his high energy and laid-back style. Most guys never want to push the envelope with their style, but I think Daniel does this with confidence, masculinity, and flare.
Daniel: Street meets Neat ("That old school way")
Daniel: Street meets Neat ("That old school way")
Daniel: Details
What we learn from Daniel is how to take your inspirations and turn them into great style, and even a career. His “Street meets neat,” philosophy is a wonderful concept to think about when defining your own style. I recommend everyone give themselves a tagline. I am wonder what Daniel thinks about in the morning when he gets dressed, “Should I be street or neat?” Well he does give me the answer to these questions. Check out my video interview with Daniel.
Daniel: Hard at Work
Daniel: Details
Daniel: Denim on Denim (don't be afraid, it rocks!)
Daniel: Denim on Denim (don't be afraid, it rocks!)
Daniel: Denim on Denim (don't be afraid, it rocks!)
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more updates about style mavens and personal shout outs.
If you told me I would be talking to Fashion Television Host Jeanne Beker one day, I would say your smoking crack. Well light up the pipe because, I am in a haze. Recently during NYFW Fall 2012, Reem Acra show, I had a moment to chat with Fashion Television host, Jeanne Beker, about her career and fashion insight.
Reem Acra: Runway Fall 2012
Reem Acra: Runway Fall 2012
Reem Acra: Runway Fall 2012
Let’s start with the show, Reem Acra, Fall 2012. say what?!! Yes, not many of us our familiar with this designer. Well let me tell you who does know Reem Acra: Madonna, Taylor Swift, and Jennifer Lopez. Madonna wore Reem Acra to this year’s Golden Globe Awards, and won, well best dressed for me, and Jennifer Lopez has also been seen in a Reem Acra creations. The collection was sexual, sensual, and fun; the models were confident walking down the runway. Also, Reem Acra has an amazing Bridal collection that is on par with Vera Wang. Here are some looks from NYFW Fall 2012.
69th Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals: Madonna Reem Acra
2012 Univision Winter TCA Breakfast: Jennifer Lopez in Reem Acra
Back to Ms. Beker. What do you say when your faced with a women you’ve grown up with your entire life. Living in rural Alberta, she was my only connection to the fashion world. Over 25 years in the business, and still going strong. Hence, you will see how nervous I was speaking to Fashion Television’s talk Queen.
Reem Acra: Runway Fall 2012
Reem Acra: Runway Fall 2012
Reem Acra: Runway Fall 2012
First, I must say she was delightful. To be honest I’ve had my eye on her job forever, plotting my move to conquer, however after meeting and chatting with her I concede. I will be more than happy to find my own way, as Jeanne is the master of her craft. Growing up, my battle was between Tim Blanks and Jeanne Beker, both Canadian, and both covering fashion. Tim always seemed to be on point about his assessment of each collection: smart, insightful, and exact. Meanwhile, Jeanne felt more free and unrehearsed. I met both during NYFW Fall 2012, and I respect them both as trail blazers for Canadian fashion coverage. Both put Canada on the map, as champions for fashion. We may not have pockets as deep as Americas, but damn it, we’ll help you sell shit and expose you to the world. “Well done!”
Reem-Acra-Fall-2012-Bridal-Collection
Reem-Acra-Fall-2012-Bridal-Collection
Reem-Acra-Fall-2012-Bridal-Collection
I must have done something right in my life, at some point, because as I think back and wonder how, not only do I get to share space with Jeanne Beker, but she is standing in front of me talking. I hope you enjoy my backstage interview with Jeanne at Reem Acra. I skipped interviewing the designer, to wait and speak with Jeanne, it was a toss-up, but I am glad I did.
