Pictures from the 1st Canadian P&G Beauty Awards

Warning: This post is the product of FujiFilm saying, "Hey! Why don't you play with our shiny new Finepix F70?" combined with a party and a glass of bubbly. I forget that sometimes it's fun to be behind the camera too. So... forgive that I'm in every shot?

Last night ChickAdvisor attended the P&G Beauty awards at the Carlu. The bash celebrated the best in Canadian fashion and beauty, bestowing Tiffany & Co. engraved awards to magazines, blogs, websites, makeup artists, models and photographers.

The Pros of this photo: I'm with Joeffer Caoc, one of my fave Canadian designers. The Cons: The shadows are making it look like my butt just grew several inches and... Joeffer's hand is on it.

The event was hosted by Nia Vardalos, who kept the crowd in stitches with jokes about her own beauty struggles growing up. She even went so far as to share a picture of herself in the awkward years. You know that school photo aged somewhere between 11 and 14 that we'd die if anyone saw? That one.

I'm with Jennifer Campbell, the online editor for FashionMagazine.com. She was the final vote that convinced me to keep the ginormous necklace when we bonded over foundation at a Clarins event.

For some reason Style By Jury's David Clemmer and I ended up doing a series of impromptu posing. The man is really funny. He was one of the presenters of the evening and this is the only photo you're going to see from our shenanigans.

Well loved Beauty Geek, Janine Falcon took home the award for best Beauty or Fashion Blog.

Julia McEwan of Canadian Living always looks amazing and is willing to pose on command. You may recall we've fashion stalked her before.

Liv Judd, editor of Lou Lou Magazine looks like a Barbie doll in her white cocktail dress. But don't hate - this fellow prairie chick is very sweet.

Sandy Gold of Happiface.com and I with our enormous statement jewelry and matching faux hawk pony tails. Do you love it?

Janine accepts her award with her trademark quip that 'the staff' will be very pleased.

That Nia Vardalos. She even talks pretty. Have you ever seen a picture of yourself mid sentence? Me, I'm an ugly talker. My face contorts, my mouth looks crooked and I purse my lips a lot. Nia is a pretty talker.

So is Jeanne Becker.

Halloween Brings Out Celebrity Sexy, Zany, and OMG

Celebrities (usually) look camera-ready perfect, so it's a nice change to see them step outside the Hollywood bubble and go all out in costume (some more than others). Gory or ridiculous, these celebs live for the shock factor!

Heidi Montag & Spencer Pratt
Photo credit: Nathanael Jones/Pacific Coast News

The Hills reality stars, "Speidi", poke fun at another reality couple. 3 guesses?

Tyra Banks
Photo credit: Michael Loccisano/Warner Bros.

Tyra as Kim Kardashian is not very exciting, but she does look fabulous! With the hair, camera angle, lighting and a quick glance Tyra's disguise would make anyone do a double take.

Seal and Heidi Klum
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

Seal and Heidi Klum aren't afraid to go all out. They are so ridiculously cute and in love it makes me gag a little.

Petra Nemcova
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

Petra Nemcova wants to "walk like an Egyptian"...

Paris Hilton
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

... while Paris' sexed-up army outfit is so expected.

Mario Lopez
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

Seriously, Mario Lopez has no shame. If you've got it why not flaunt it, right? The security officer doesn't seem to mind ;)

Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon
Photo credit: Henry Lamb/Photowire/BEImages

Firefighters are definitely sexy, but leave it to Mariah Carey to make it look downright trashy.

Ice-T and Coco
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

It's like looking at a car crash. You want to look away but you just can't!

Gwen Stefani
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

I love Gwen Stefani, but as a style icon I expected a little more than sunny-side up. How does she still manage to look chic?

Britney Spears
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

Yes Britney, this is very scary. We're completely baffled about what your costume is, even.

Audrina Patridge
Photo credit: EntertainmentWise

Hills star, Audrina Patridge, in a classic '80s Madonna get-up. It's unimaginative but I love it!

Angela Bassett and kids
Photo credit: Evans Ward/Berliner Studio/BEImages

Say it with us: awwwww!

Are you dressing up for Halloween? Which celebrity costume has your vote?

Happy Halloween!

Dynamite Holiday Pose Off!

Staff at ChickAdvisor H.Q. is at it again! Our pose off continues, this time featuring the beautiful holiday collection from Dynamite. We were pleasantly surprised by how many items we loved!

Without further ado, here we are getting our pose on...

No, these aren't mannequins but rather a case of Bad Hair day! The holiday season is all about feminine ruffles and a dash of sparkle. Each outfit has the perfect amount of roominess for those big festive dinners but still shows off your figure. The sparkly sequin bolero and dress add an element of glitz and glam.

Whether it's a shrug or a little jacket, keep warm while looking stylish. The gray bolero can go with a casual tank or dressy cami, but save the cropped jacket for a more formal affair. The striped wrap sweater is a cozy but stylish choice for those bitter cold days.

Which outfit is your favourite? Who do you think wins the mannequin pose off? I'm loving mannequin #2 on the bottom with the awkward pose! Share your vote in the comments.

www.dynamite.ca

Hot or Not? Wedding Gowns with (gasp) sleeves

Photo credit: EPA/Fred Marcus

Ah, wedding stress. Sleepless nights spent muttering over Mommy-in-law's critique of the exact shade of ivory for the napkins, or your band who has just a few too many Barry Manilow songs on their playlist are bad enough. Worrying about your not-so-toned armpits and underarms creeping out the top of your strapless gown is enough to make you want to strap on that bat cape and sail off the nearest bridge.

These oh-so-hilariously-nicknamed 'batwings' can be toned up by regular sessions with a set of dumbbells, but the multiple cake-tasting sessions are really working against you. Help may be on the way.

Ivanka Trump's gown got a modesty makeover when she converted to orthodox Judaism in time for her October 25, 2009 wedding. Vera Wang added a lace bodice and half sleeves to Ivanka's dress that we are swooning over. Does this signal the decline of the strapless bridal uniform?

What do you think?

LG Fashion Week Highlights: L'Oreal Paris Celebrates 100 Years of Beauty

L'Oreal Paris celebrated 100 years of beauty by putting on a runway show for Toronto LG Fashion Week's opening night on October 19. The show featured a montage of influential looks from different eras; many were stunning!

1910 look: I heart the porcelain skin, rouge lips, and curly up-do.

1920 look: Ladies of this era were mysteriously vampy. Love the feathers!

1940 look: Only a strong, confident woman could pull off this look! Designer/singer Gwen Stefani draws much inspiration from the '40s.

1970 look: The 'fro is so disco-chic! Love the suit!

1980 look: Gotta love the big, over-teased hair of the '80's!

2000 look: The era of sleek, chic, and simply natural. The revolutionary straightner changed my life!

Present day: Love the beachy-inspired waves and tropical makeup for Spring 2010's day look!

Present day: Evening look for Spring 2010 - picture evening cocktails in St. Maarten!

L'Oreal Paris' Eddie Maleterre and Eric Del Monaco, creators behind the styles. Love!

Which era do you fancy?

by Makeup Junkie
Photo credits: Cowan and Company

Designer collaborations: Christian and Jean Paul

In a perfect world, my closet would be overflowing with high-end designer pieces. Also, ice cream and chocolate would be calorie exempt.

However, I doubt a designer wardrobe makeover is in the cards anytime soon. Now that more top designers are collaborating with affordable brands like H&M, Payless, and Target we no longer have to dream about owning a designer piece!

Christian Siriano for Payless; Photo: Fashion-plate.blogspot.com

Project Runway (US) Season 4 winner, Christian Siriano, has created a shoe line for Payless coming Spring 2010. He debuted his shoe line, which included 5-inch banana heels, in his runway show in September. However, Payless is doing a more toned down version of the collection by simply plastering the the blue and orange ocean-inspired fabric from his collection to plain pumps. Will you be clamoring to get your hands these shoes?

Jean Paul Gaultier for Target; Photo: Styleblog.ca

Jean Paul Gaultier is doing a collection with Target, the third big name designer to join the Designer Collaboration series following Alexander McQueen and Anna Sui. Set to launch March 7, 2010, Gaultier's collection will be available on Target.com and 250 Target locations in the US. His inspiration for the line is the "American woman". Do you think his line will be wearable?

Read more on this topic, at Style for a Steal: Top Designers Bring It To the Masses.

What's New: Lancome Oscillation Powerfoundation SPF 21

Lancôme's 1st micro-vibrating mineral foundation, Ôscillation PowerFoundation SPF 21




I have to admit, the latest gadgets have made beauty just a little more fun! Life is complicated enough, but can these new high-tech beauty products actually make our lives easier?

What is it?
Charismatic Lancôme creator, Jean-Louis Gueret, is always thinking ahead finding ways to improve today's makeup. With the success of Lancôme's Ôscillation mascara, it was only logical to keep going. Ôscillation PowerFoundation SPF 21 is the first micro-vibrating mineral foundation with a sponge applicator that buffs onto the skin.

Why should you care?
If you've ever used a loose mineral powder foundation you know it can be messy. The sponge contours the face and concentrates the oscillation to the center of the sponge, making it is mess-free! The buffing action easily and evenly smooths the minerals over the face, leaving you looking naturally radiant and flawless. The massaging action encourages circulation in the skin, which improves the overall appearance. It's so quick and easy to use, Jean-Louis did a lovely demonstration...on himself!

The Ôscillation PowerFoundation ($65 CDN) will be available in 9 shades at Lancome online (Canada) and select Lancôme counters starting January 2010. It is now available in 12 shades in the US from select retailers and online (US).

What did you think of the Ôscillation Mascara? Will you try the foundation too?

What's New: La Senza Ohh La Lace No-Show Thong

Look out, Hanky Panky! La Senza No-Show Thongs are taking you on.

La Senza Ohh La Lace No-Show Thong, $12.50 CDN

Hanky Panky panties have long been an underneath-it-all staple for fashionable femmes; no visible panty line and one size fits all! They are cute, but somewhat pricy, starting at $18 USD each. Luckily, La Senza has also launched their own lacy lovelies, which offer the same benefits for less at $12.50 CAD or 3 for $25.

L-R: Hanky Panky; La Senza Ooh La La Lace No-Show Thong

What is it?
La Senza Ohh La Lace No-Show Thongs are invisible under your clothing.

Why should you care?
A wardrobe staple, these one-size-fits-all thongs really do fit all sizes! They are super stretchy and ultra comfortable. You'll never have to be embarrassed about these invisible thongs showing through your clothes (although they're so pretty you almost want to show 'em off!).

Available at La Senza locations across Canada and at www.lasenza.com.

Hot or Not: Gradient Nails?

Ladies, I think we can all admit that we've fallen for a trend or two in our lifetime we'd rather not relive (burning photos as we speak). Some trends have reemerged, like the modernized '80s blazer - a wardrobe staple. What about the ones that aren't so hot ,like tapered jeans and frosty blue eyeshadow? Why? is all I can say.

What do you think of the latest trends in nails: gradient colour? Not familiar? Celebrities like reality TV star, Lauren Conrad, have sported this trend on their tips.

Photo: Lovelyish

Nails are painted from light to dark in the same colour family or in complimentary hues. Here's a close-up photo from The Coveted.

Hot or not? Will you try this nail trend or are you way ahead of us and wearing it as we speak?

If you have your eye on a great trend you think everyone should be doing/wearing/saying we want to know! And heck, if you think a hot trend is just so wrong, share that too. Please include a photo with your rant or rave email, and you may see it here on ChickLit!

This Week on ChickAdvisor

New Product Review Club offer. 100 reviewers will have the chance to review Vaseline Sheer Infusion Stratys-3!


Cook up a delicious Italian cuisine with the hunky David Rocco!


Toronto LG Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 round-up, Read up on the hottest trends coming our way.


What's the right weight for you? Find out from new contributor Kate Comeau.


Don't forget to enter for ChickAdvisor's 3rd Birthday give away.


Deal of the Week: Win 1 of 10 dermaglow Correction Kits! Offer ends October 31st.
Forum Topic of the Week: Jealous...of a baby? Curious? Find out what our members are saying!

New Contributor: Kate Comeau

We're pleased to introduce our latest expert contributor to ChickAdvisor! Nutritionist Kate Comeau will tackle your questions on health and wellness, from body image to the truth about what's in your lunchbox.

Kate is a registered dietitian and nutritionist, and the Lifestyle Division Director of ATP Nutrition. The McGill and Acadia alum's first article appears on ChickAdvisor this week.

Share your health and wellness questions with Kate, and you may see it featured here on ChickAdvisor!

Yay or Nay: Anthropologie Necklace

This morning after attending an event for Lancome and the launch of their newest innovation (a vibrating foundation!), I impulsively picked up this statement necklace from Anthropologie.

I was so excited when I saw it in the store but then I got home and now I'm just not sure. Is it too much for my wee upper body? I tend to buy classic clothes and have a lot of black in my closet so I thought this might spice it up. But when I put it on the husband pulled a face, which really blows when you bring home something new you're excited about, doesn't it?

Since I have no shame, I hit the posing wall and hoped you lovelies could help me decide. Yay or nay?

P.S Comments on my frizzy hair are not welcome. It's raining today ok?

Update:

You all suggested I try another neckline and put my hair back, so here it is. I think it would be even better with strapless but I generally wear straps. I think it looks miles better but it's still a whole lotta necklace!

Member Blogs We Love

Our members are amazing and whenever we get the chance, we like to make a point of showing some love! Not only do they write great reviews, but they also have fantastic blogs we can't get enough of. Interest piqued?

Meet ChickAdvisor member Marsadie! A self-professed girly-girl, she is the beauty editor of Frappelattes.com, a beauty and lifestyle blog.

Why we love it: The name is adorable and the pretty pictures and juicy tidbits on beauty and fashion always leave us wanting more!

Meet ChickAdvisor member Midnight Cowgirl! She'd rather be anonymous but just picture Elizabeth Taylor (according to her profile). This indie fashion blogger is the founder of The Fashion Planner, a blog about pop culture through the eyes of a twenty-something fashionista.

Why we love it: One-of-a-kind fashion finds and themed party looks!

Planning a wedding? You're in luck! ChickAdvisor member Cynthia Martyn is the founder of, Cynthia Martin Events The Blog. Her blog features her stunning work as a pro wedding planner based in Toronto.

Why we love it: Besides all her expert wedding tips, we love gazing at all the pretty brides in their gorgeous wedding dresses!

Here's another anonymous Chick (we're sure she's much hotter than Perez Hilton!)! ChickAdvisor member Nicola has good reason though; as the editor of The Gossip Wrap-Up!, she dishes on celebrity news and juicy gossip!

Why we love it: Nicola's saucy reports on the hottest celebs of the moment are downright hilarious!

Check out these member blogs and let us know what you think. Who knows, you may find a new favourite! We're always perusing our Blog directory for new blogs to love! And always - don't forget to share that love and link back to us! Thank you, pretties!

How to Have a Cool Profile Picture

There are so many great profile pictures on ChickAdvisor, and there's also lots of default "blue chick" images (which, in hindsight are kind of ugly, no?) The number one reason women don't upload a picture with their profile is they want to be anonymous. Even though my profile has pages and pages (and pages) of pictures of yours truly and my life, I totally get the shy girl thing. BUT, you can still show personality without showing your beautiful face.

Behold a selection of actual member profile pictures that we think pretty much rock:

What's cuter than a wee one? Think Clearly was clever to get her Gerber Baby to represent!

Elle Dias is gorgeous, glamorous and a bit mysterious!
Pinkcrush shows her sexy sassy side but because we can't see her whole face, I probably wouldn't recognize her on the subway. Or at Fashion Week, which I just noticed on her blog, she too is covering.

Makeupkase is retro chic with her popping pink headband and cool photo treatment. Like the 2 lovely lasses before her, we are only getting one eye. A side profile is a bit more anonymous, yet coy.

IshraSharif shows us she is a fun loving city girl without even showing her face!

'SnotFace' is anything but, and um, er... I'll be honest. This beguiling babe has bewildered me with her choice of member name so I'll just leave it at that, stop using the letter "b", and assume it's an inside joke?

stereo_child has demonstrated the art of complete anonymity while still looking totally cool.

Megan Stevens: 1. I have that bikini too; and 2. You look like fun. Can we be friends?


Jessgurl03 - Strike a pose, there's nothing to it, vogue (vogue, vogue). Love, Madonna.

Dear Badfish - another name that thrills me to read - I love this picture and it makes me very happy. Thank you.

Panda, yum! You got any more of those? Panda, this picture is so anonymous for all I know you're a pot bellied middle age man looking for an outlet to express your inner chick, but you know what? I'll take a dozen of these to go.

So you see, Girlfriends, as these lovely chicks have demonstrated there is much you can do to add some zing to your profile without shame or revealing too much. Please be a dear and trot on over to your profiles and add some of your lovely personality stat!

Psst! Which are your favourite profile pics?

LG Fashion Week Ghosts

This is what happens when you try to take amateur photos from the audience on auto setting. I captured a lot of ghosts that night. Aside from the fact that the pictures aren't usable, they look cool, no?

Boo!

What's New: Garnier Fructis Style Hold & Flex Flexible Control Spray

Garnier Fructis Style Hold & Flex Flexible Control Spray enriched with bamboo!

Garnier Fructis Style Hold & Flex Flexible Control Spray, $5.49 CDN

What is it?

Tired of hair spray that is stiff and sticky? Garnier Hold & Flex Flexible Control Spray promises you soft, touchable hair.

Why Should You Care?

You'll benefit from the natural extract of bamboo, which allows for a strong hold with tons of flexibility and movement for up to 24 hours. Reinvent the way you style your locks! Coif it or curl it, ladies, and sway your hair back and forth - because now you can!

Enjoy three levels of 24-Hour hold: Strong, Extra Strong, and Ultra Strong.

Available in drugstores and mass retailers across Canada.
Also available in the US as Garnier Fructis Style Anti-Humidity Hairspray.

Garnier Fructis (Canada)
Garnier Fructis Style (US)

Getting to Know You: Jo Rivard

England's loss is our gain! Charming Brit Joanna Rivard is a recent addition to the Toronto scene. She brings with her knowledge of the Lost Arts of tea parties and letter-writing (remember that, from the pre-Crackberry era?). This foodie keeps the international flair in our restaurant section, and always has her eye on the next adventure.

ChickAdvisor
What is your nickname, and how did you get it?

Jo
I used to get called fish face and thunder thighs in school. Kids can be cruel. The therapy seems to have paid off though.

ChickAdvisor
What occupies your spare time?

Jo
I play the piano (but only when no one’s home), drink large lattes with my husband at our favourite coffee shop, and ride my bike slowly around the neighbourhood (preferably downhill).

ChickAdvisor
Confession time - who is your celebrity crush?

Photo credit: U2.com

Jo
Bono. The man has soul.
*Editor's note: we agree!

ChickAdvisor
...and your fashion Icon?

Photo credit: National Portrait Gallery

Jo
Audrey Hepburn.

ChickAdvisor
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Jo
In a small Parisian apartment, with an old camera, a cool bike (not a tandem) and the lovely husband.

ChickAdvisor
Yes, lovely husbands are an absolute must!

Highlights from Jo:

Authentic British Eats
* Pick a pub that does the name justice

How to Plan Your Best Backyard Bash
* Fresh new ideas for outdoor entertaining

British Cuisine: Eton Mess
* A perfectly horrible name for a perfectly decadent dessert

LG Fashion Week: Vawk Spring 2010

We just love Sunny Fong. We interviewed the Season 2 Project Runway Canada winner a while ago and were anxious to see his spring 2010 collections at the AGO yesterday. Alas, a bug has been circulating the office this past week and we decided to self-quarantine.

Thankfully, Fashion Magazine has put together a series of nifty vids from their coverage of the various shows. Enjoy!

Heath Ledger's Last Film: The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus

This is Heath Ledger's last film. Will you see it? Ratings on IMDB so far have it at 7.6/10. I'd watch it just to see him in action one last time.

Beautylicious Preview

Last week we popped in to preview the treatments Toronto Chicks will be taking advantage of for Beautylicious Oct 28 - Nov 7. All of the local spas, salons and even some restaurants in the bloor/yorkville area are offering special packages and deals to those who book in advance. It's a great way to sample something new and pamper yourself or a friend at great prices.

Here are the services I tested:

The Salon - Blowdry and deep conditioning treatment, $25

I got a wash, deep conditioning treatment and blowdry at Marc Anthony salon, where stylist, Jimmy gave me sensational billowy curls using nothing but a small round brush and blow dryer. The end results were fantastic, though the process was a bit... aggressive. My scalp wasn't such a fan of both the use of frigid water (to rinse out the treatment), and the times where I felt nearly pulled off my chair as my hair was yanked and whipped around the brush.

The Spa - Focused Facial and Express Pedicure, $125

Oh Stillwater Spa, will you marry me? Whatever stress I felt from the week melted away in minutes as I enjoyed my focus facial and express pedicure. First, Hanna treated me to a luxurious facial that felt more like the full hour than the express 30 minutes. The face and neck massage were especially soothing and I emerged with glowing skin.

While I waited for my pedicure, I sipped on lemon water per Hanna's instructions. She had noticed some dehydration in my skin and said all of the staff there drink a lot of lemon water to rehydrate the skin. Interesting tip, yes?

Shortly after, Mimoza swept into the lounge area looking for a man named "Ali" for the pedicure treatment. I thought she might be looking for me and that was confirmed after she visited the front desk - and had someone check the men's room - to inquire what "Ali" looked like. We both laughed about it as she exfoliated my feet and polished my toes with a glossy red.

Stillwater is truly the best full service spa in the city, so if you plan to take advantage of the Beautylicious deals this should be on your list.

Check out their website for a full list of participating merchants and package pricing.
http://www.bloor-yorkville.com/Beautylicious/

What's on ChickAdvisor This Week

Will you get the H1N1 vaccine? Get the facts first

Only 67 Shopping Days until Christmas! Here's how to save a bundle while you're doing it

This decadent pumpkin mousse is not fat-free (thank goodness)

Looking a little saggy? Here's how to fake a sleeping beauty


Hot Topic: Awkward! How do you cut a friend loose?

Canadian Deal of the Week: Donate your old coat, receive a $25 Mexx Gift Card. Warm snuggly feeling inside and out (awww)!


American Deal of the Week: A Burt's Bees Grab Bag valued at nearly $60 for just $25. Think stocking stuffers and "thinking of you" gifts...

Top Halloween Costumes for 2009

Gals and ghouls everywhere are on the hunt for the best costume to top all others. Take a look at some of 2009's best costumes. Some of these are hilarious! There is something for everyone in the family, whether you want something freakishly gory or sexy scary!

Baby Princess Leia, $19.95

Baby Princess Leia: Now doesn't this baby Princess Leia costume make your heart melt but laugh at the same time? Poor lil' cutie looks like she has doggie-you-know-what on the sides of her head!

Girl Scar-let Pirate Costume, $29.95

Girl Scar-let Pirate Costume: Skulls, mesh, and swords for a little girl? Really?

Woman's Twister Costume, $29.95

Woman's Twister Costume: How fun is this costume? I can see this being a big hit at a club or house party. "Left hand on yellow circle". Oh, the memories!

Sexy Honey Bunny, $39.95

Sexy Woman's Honey Bunny Costume: Dare to bare - your bottom? Wow! If you've ever wanted to live out your Playboy Bunny dreams this is the costume! But, um, please don't!

Men's Sexy Jack Sparrow Costume, $69.95

Men's Jack Sparrow Costume: Sigh. This will probably be the closest any of us will get to being with Johnny Depp!

Couples Plug & Socket Costume, $53.95

Couples Plug & Socket Costume: Hilarious for couples but it also works if you're single! Looking for love? If the plug fits then it's meant to be!

And the winner...

Kate Gosselin Wig, $14.95

Kate Gosselin Wig! If you've ever wanted to be Kate Gosselin for a day and sport her oh-so-chic-mom-do (not for me thanks!), now's your chance!

Would you wear any of these?

Weekend Movie Recommendation: Whip It

Drew Barrymore is adorable and her bubbly personality is just infectious!

Whip It, Barrymore's directorial debut, stars JUNO's Ellen Page playing Bliss Cavendar, a young woman who wants to break free of her small-town bonds by joining the rough-and-tumble roller derby in Austin, Texas. It's girl power with this all-star female cast.

Whip It is still on my list of must-sees but I've heard this feel-good comedy does not disappoint!

Have you seen it?

Also recommended on RottenTomatoes

Getting to Know You: Katie Coristine

Bubbly blonde Katie Coristine is one of our fashion contributors, who got her start as story producer on Canada’s eTalk on CTV. She's a self-described celebrity smut junkie, but there's much more to this so-bad-it's-actually-good Melrose Place fan:

ChickAdvisor
What is your nickname, and how did you get it?

Katie
My high school nickname was K-Dawg. One of my best friends made it up and it was soooooo cool at the time, but now it makes me cringe.

ChickAdvisor
If you had to choose, who is your #1 celebrity crush?

Photo credit: IMDb

Katie
Edward Cullen - does that count? He may be in high school, which sounds kind of sick, but (a) he’s totally like 100 and something years old, and (b) he makes me want to be a vampire. I almost think Twilight as a whole is unfair to men because it gives women this unrealistic expectation of what men are like.

ChickAdvisor
Who is your fashion Icon?

Kate Moss for Topshop

Katie
Kate Moss…She’s completely tragic, yet I’m still totally fascinated by her.

ChickAdvisor
How would you describe your closet?


Katie
Wrinkly is the only way to describe my closet. I am not what you would call a “domestic goddess”, and I have never owned an iron.

ChickAdvisor
What is one of the highlights of your life so far?

Katie
I was standing in the hall of a hotel during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) a few years ago with my boss eating Nerds and all of a sudden we see Gwyneth Paltrow coming down the hall straight for us. My boss spills Nerds all over the floor and immediately goes down to clean them up. As she’s starting to stand up (hands filled with Nerds) Gwyneth is RIGHT in front of us…my boss mutters “want some nerds?” …to Gwyneth Paltrow. To which Gwyneth responds with a laugh and something along the lines of “nerds! I haven’t seen those since the 80’s” - A great moment!

Highlights from Katie:

Weekend in Toronto
* Insider's tips when visiting the T-Dot

Iconic Arm Candy
* Best of Bags, then and now

Is My Period Normal?
* What to Expect when you're expecting Aunt Flo

Product Review Club Juicy Tidbits

Fascinating tidbits can be gleaned from surveys. If you're curious about what kind of women use ChickAdvisor, here's a few interesting stats from our Product Review Club:

76% of our members (globally) are between 20 and 40 years old.

60% have colour treated hair.

63% purchase their haircare from drugstores;

30% purchase it from the salon or department stores.

52 % purchase makeup from the drugstore;

31% from department stores like The Bay, Holt Renfrew, Sephora or Bloomingdales

64% bleach their teeth;

but 36% leave them mellow yellow.

The majority of our members have classified themselves as either a Girly Girl or Trend Setter. The third most popular classification is: Yummy Mommy.

73% say they prefer natural or organic products but that doesn't stop them from buying products that aren't;

20% say they care more about the results than the ingredients.

73% say perfume or scented lotions are important to them

6% say they are among the few in the world who don't like chocolate!

Do any of these stats surprise you?

Click here if you don't know what the Product Review Club is

Getting To Know You: The ChickAdvisor Team

Ali & Claire - yes, you'll be hearing from us as well :)

ChickAdvisor wouldn't be your go-to source for new and favourite products and services without our savvy members.

It also wouldn't be a fun and informative place for chic Chicks without our amazing staff and contributors!

Starting very soon, we will be sharing some fun mini biographies of the beautiful and talented people who help make ChickAdvisor possible.

Stay tuned!

Karl Lagerfeld Defends the "Skinnies"

Karl Lagerfeld in all his fat-mummy-hating-glory

Thanks to iconic designer, Karl Lagerfeld's comment on "fat mummies", my poor body image has sunk to new levels. Ha - not really.

According to The Guardian, Lagerfeld stated it's only "fat mummies" that object to seeing skinny models.

Model, Chanel Spring 2010 ready-to-wear

"These are fat mummies sitting with their bags of crisps in front of the television, saying that thin models are ugly," Lagerfeld opined to Focus magazine. This was in response to the German magazine, Brigitte's decision to use "ordinary realistic" women instead of professional models in future fashion spreads. Lagerfield thinks it is "absurd" and that women who complain about skinny models are just fat and jealous.

Had enough? Lagerfeld continues, "Ninety percent of them (models) are quite normal, properly proportioned girls with less fat and more muscles, who also eat pizzas and burgers."

Benefit of the doubt - I know some people who are just naturally skinny. Fine, but don't make us "fat mummies" feel worse by telling us that they eat pizza and burgers just like us and are still skinny!

Fat mummy, check. Bag of crisps in front of television, check. Jealous of skinny models? Ok, maybe a little. By industry standards I am obese but by normal-everyday-women standards, I am damn hot, sisters!

Lagerfeld's comments are humorous and should be taken with a grain of salt, however, young women who grow up idolizing him and the models that surround him might take his comments to heart. The fashion and modeling industry represent a business and an escape from reality. It does not represent the everyday ideal woman so don't be discouraged.

I applaud magazines like Brigitte and Glamour for showing everyday women. The most important thing is to be healthy and be happy. Who says the fashion industry can't be a mix of both fat mummies and skinnies? After all, everyone's ideal is different. ;)

Check out what our members are saying on this topic here!

Photo credit: Style.com and StyleList.com

Trainer George Brings Back 2003

Girlfriends, I'm getting my 2003 body back.

In '03 I was quite bored at work and to keep myself from falling asleep, would take advantage of the gym in the building. It's amazing what you can achieve with 1.5 hour lunchtime workouts 5 days a week! I was so fit I played beach volleyball that summer in a bikini - and was not ashamed. Girlfriends, I also wore tight white pants in public!

It's not about being thin; I enjoy feeling healthy and strong... and not worrying about which way the sun is shining on the beach (and my backside) that day.

I've recently decided to see if I could do it again, so I've been working out with George. Trainer George is slim, yet muscular and Greek. He likes my show on Pizza Pizza TV and often compliments me about it, which naturally wins points with me. But then he pushes me till I sweat from my under eye bags and behind the knees (have you ever sweat from your bags before?).

Yesterday was a circuit routine between pushups, dips and "Juda Crunches"- the kind that make you accidentally revisit lunch. Then, as I jumped side to side over an imaginary line on the floor, skier style for 10 minutes, George casually suggested I start documenting my eating habits on an online website so he could log in and track it. Translation: "So I can spy on, and give you crap for eating chocolate twice a day every day."

I tried to dodge the subject, but he wasn't buying it. He wrote it on my chart.

My goal this week: 3 workouts and chocolate once a day instead of twice.

*Update* Wed Oct 14: 12:46
I have failed. Husband brought me a nice chocolate mousse cake from Le Gourmand. I would be a jerk not to eat it, right?

Bollocks

I'm adding "bollocks" to my daily vocabulary now. It's such an underused (well, in North America) yet fantastic word, isn't it?

Newsletter Oct 13th: European Fashion Weeks, Marcelle deal & Recent Recipes

Girlfriends, though we are still grieving the summer we never had, fashion capitals around the world are already showcasing what we'll be wearing next spring. Check out our sneak peak of the trends from the European Fashion Weeks in Paris, Milan and London!

Save $3 off Marcelle Essentials 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream

We've been buzzing about Marcelle's newest eye cream 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream for its effectiveness at a great price point. You've probably noticed the glowing reviews rolling in from our recent Product Review Club offer. Here's what the Chicks are saying:

Princesscupcakehead says, "I normally find eye creams too heavy for the delicate eye area but this one went on really smooth and felt luxurious. "

sunnydelight says, "I had no idea that the quality was actually so good! (…) In addition to instant absorption into the skin and reduction of puffiness under my eyes, I have noticed that the tiny fine lines under my eyes have faded back with this product."

Weez says, "I am very glad I did try this product. I didn't experience any kind of irritation whatsoever; It was as gentle & effective as a more expensive product from a specialty store I had been using up to this point. "

Want to try one yourself? For a limited time, use this coupon and save $3 off! Read more about this deal here or get me that coupon here!

There's still time to enter our 3rd Birthday giveaway to win over $750 worth of top selling beauty products.

Recent Recipes

Learn how to make this incredibly easy yet delicious Butter Chicken


Learn the art of canning

What's on ChickAdvisor This Week

Celeste Lutario of Burt's Bees reveals her top 3 controversial beauty ingredients
European fashion weeks largely determine what ends up in your closet. Sneak peaks at Spring '09 from Paris, London and Milan.
A quick and easy recipe for Butter Chicken
Our Wedding Expert, Cynthia Martyn shares her tips on getting the right wedding invitesDeal of the week:
Save $3 off Marcelle's 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream

Happy Thanksgiving/Columbus Day!

ChickAdvisor would like to wish all our members a Happy Thanksgiving to our fellow Canadians and Happy Columbus Day to our US neighbours! Any long-weekend plans? If you live in Toronto or are visiting from out of town, check out some events happening this weekend!

• Mariposa Cruises Thanksgiving Dinner
• Casa Loma Thanksgiving Brunch
• Thanksgiving Designer Clothing Sale

What's New: Benefit BADgal Brown Mascara

Mile high lashes with Benefit BADgal Brown Mascara!

Benefit BADgal Brown Mascara, $26 CDN

We know - you're gorgeous already! Benefit Cosmetics wants to help enhance what you already have. Darken your lashes with the "new black" mascara. Benefit BADgal Brown Mascara gives you perfectly natural lashes only better! The slim, sleek brush separates and defines, leaving mile high fluffy lashes.

Go ahead - bat those lashes and show off what your mama gave you!

www.benefitcosmetics.com

Toronto Deal of the Week: Bloor-Yorkville Beautylicious Event

Do not miss out on the beauty event of the year! The Bloor-Yorkville area is throwing Canada's first Beautylicious event starting October 28-November 7. Need a new do? Feel like your skin could use a lift with a deep cleansing facial? Considering getting Botox? Well, this is the time to book it! We at ChickAdvisor could definitely use a little pampering!

What is Beautylicious?
"Beautylicious" is a celebration of beauty and wellness inspired by Toronto's popular Winterlicious and Summerlicious culinary events. Over 100 salons & spas will be participating and offering a variety of hair, spa, and health and wellness service packages available at 3 price points: $25, $75, and $125!

Packages are available in three “Beautylicious” categories: Hair (hair colour/cut/style); Spa (including massage and/or facial, and/or mani/pedi); Skin (non-invasive procedures including Botox, Juvéderm or chemical peels); and Health & Wellness (nutrition services, dental, massage services). These specially priced packages will not be available at any other time during the year.

Hurry and book your appointment before it's too late!

For complete details on participating businesses, available packages, and information about Beautylicious, go to www.bloor-yorkville.com/Beautylicious.

What's New: Precious Skin With Lancome

Lancome Absolue Precious Cells Advanced Regenerating and Replenishing Cream SPF 15


A good skin care regime is essential whether you're in your 20's or your 50's. Lancome has always delivered innovative skin care products to fight the evilness of aging! Absolue Precious Cells is the brand's latest promise to promoting healthier, more youthful skin.

With many skin care lines offering the same results of younger looking skin, what is so different about Absolue Precious Cells?

This delicate yet rich cream is nourishing to the skin and designed to soothe your skin. Targeted more for women in their 50's, the Absolue line is the very first to work beyond the protection of stem cells in order to retrigger skin's regenerative potential. Within 6 days, skin recovers the epidermis of someone with younger skin. With regular use, skin is denser, regenerated and radiant.

A replacement for plastic surgery? Hmm, might be a pricey bottle but definitely a lot cheaper than going under the knife!

Available on Lancome.ca and selected Lancome counters starting October 25, 2009 retailing for $170 CDN .

www.lancome.ca

What's New: Vaseline Sheer Infusion

What’s New: Vaseline Sheer Infusion
Dry winter legs rejoice!



Just in time for the harsh winter season, Vaseline’s Sheer Infusion moisturizer promises to deliver two times more moisture than the leading body lotion. Sheer Infusion can infuse moisture across all layers of skin and keep it there through the breakthrough technology of Stratys-3.

What is Stratys-3 you ask?
Stratys-3 is made up of three ingredients, each designed to moisturize the different layers of the skin (top, core, and deep down). Rather than just using Glycerin as the main ingredient, Stratys-3 is combined with Glycerol Quat which moisturizes the top layer, Glycerin which effectively penetrates the core, and Hydroxy Ethyl Urea that absorbs into the deep down layer.

Vaseline Sheer Infusion is made to improve the skin’s moisture level without feeling heavy or sticky. Available in 3 scents: Botanical, Mineral, and Vitamin E. My favourite is Vitamin E.

We've tested these at ChickAdvisor H.Q and find Sheer Infusion to be deeply moisturizing with a softness that lasts all day.

Vaseline Sheer Infusion is available at food, drug, and mass retailers nationwide beginning September 2009 and retail for $6.49 - $8.49.

www.vaseline.com

This Week on ChickAdvisor

If you haven't already, don't forget to enter for our Birthday give away!

Tired of boring toast for breakfast? Try this new recipe for sweet rolls!

50 lucky members will have the chance to review CoverGirl's LashBlast Length! Click for details!

Be financially savvy and read up on our tips on how to revamp your finances.

Need to spruce up your wardrobe without dishing out money? Why not hold a clothing swap!

Hot Topic: Would you nip and tuck? Some of the answers may surprise you!
Deal of the Week: 2 more days left on major discounts at Forever21.com!

Newsletter Oct 5th: 3rd Birthday Giveaway and Free MyMNY Beauty Guide

ChickAdvisor 3rd Birthday Giveaway

Can you believe we're three already? We're thrilled to celebrate with you by throwing a birthday giveaway where you can enter to win over $750 of fabulous beauty products and gift cards.

To enter, tell us what you think of ChickAdvisor by filling out this short survey. Contest ends October 30th and the winner will be announced the week of November 16th.

Enter our Third Birthday Giveaway here

Get Your Free MyMNY Personalized Beauty Guide

Love makeup? Check.

Like getting expert advice on which products and colours work for your skin, eye colour and makeup style? Check.

How about getting exclusive savings on products meant for you? Even better!

Well, Maybelline New York has launched Canada's first 100% personalized beauty guide that encompasses all of the above and more.

How can you get your very own copy? Subscribe by filling out a short survey on myMNY.ca, about the colours that work best for you and your preferences,. Maybelline New York will then send you your own free personalized guide with tips, advice and product recommendations customized just for you, based on your age, skin type, eye colour, makeup style and more. At the back of the guide, you will find exclusive offers for the products recommended for you! In addition, you will be eligible for rewards and bonus gifts. This is a no-brainer, yes?

We've tested this at ChickAdvisor H.Q and we’re impressed with the recommendations and coupons towards our favourite products!

Guides are available in English and French for Canadian residents only. Quantities are limited, so don’t miss out!

P.S. Don’t keep this secret to yourself! Be sure to forward this info to your friends :)

Book Club Selection: The Piano Teacher
Our latest Book Club discussions, featuring The Piano Teacher, are now being posted in our ChickChat forum. It's not too late to join! Click here for more information about our Club.

Weekend Movie Recommendation: Cloudy With A Slight Chance of Meatballs

If you were a fan of this book as a child then you will absolutely love this movie! It's a movie for kids of all ages and for those who are kids at heart - me! The movie is highly entertaining. The story is about a young kid who grows up to invent a machine that makes food fall from the sky! The 3D effects are visually stimulating (maybe too stimulating for kids 3 and under) and will have you craving burgers, spaghetti and ice cream! Perfect movie for a family outing or if you're just a fan of 3D animation! Loved it!

Have you seen this movie?

Also recommended on:

Rotten Tomatoes

Lou Lou Loves ChickAdvisor!

ChickAdvisor labeled as a "virtual inspiration" and a "hip portal" in October's issue of Lou Lou Magazine pg. 28! Thank you for the lovely write up! We're utterly flattered and tickled pink! Thank you to ChickAdvisor member, shopgal88, for the heads up!

Your Contributions on ChickAdvisor

Ali & Claire meet for cocktails with some of our Toronto contributors

As most of you know, we are celebrating ChickAdvisor's 3rd birthday this week. Our site would not be here today without our savvy members and first-rate contributors!

If you love ChickAdvisor and would like to be more involved, we'd like to hear from you! We have an ongoing call for new writers and photographers to our team. Curious?

Simply email us with WRITER or PHOTOGRAPHER in the title expressing your interest. Whether you're an amateur with a good eye or pen hoping to expand your portfolio, or a professional eager to get your name noticed, we want to talk to you! Best of all, you do not need to be based in Toronto to participate.

Here's to many more years!

Office Dress Code

What nonsense is going on here, you ask? Well, it's a pose-off and so far, Joy is winning.

This is what we do here at ChickAdvisor H.Q when we particularly like what one of us is wearing. We hit the posing wall. It all started with Mandy (middle shorty in yellow), who comes to work dressed to the nines every day. It was inspiring for all of us. Then one day Mandy and I wore pretty much the same thing, and posing became a mandatory part of the job.

Though colour is always the most fun, we do love our black and white. The GAP boyfriend white shirt is sophisticated casual and my Cole Haan bag is my new best friend. This poofy vest from GAP is like swaddling yourself in a sleeping bag. I won't mislead you; poofy vests are not on the Chick-approved office dress code, but we got a bag of samples GAP wanted us to try and Joy was elected/coerced to be the model.

I'm cheating with this photo because a: It's not in front of the posing wall and b: you can see the tag is still on the dress. I took the picture to decide if I should keep it (I did!). Claire, (right) was photographed in a parking garage on her way to our writer's cocktail in spring. I know, the parking garage isn't the best backdrop but she looks gorgeous, no? Joy once again looks effortless chic.

Which outfit wins your vote?