Getting to Know You: Claire Rahn

Claire Rahn is our awesome editor and, little known fact, my sister! This stylish Mom of 3 is an ex-pat living in the U.S thankful every winter not to be dealing with Winnipeg's frosty temperatures. She's fluent in German from several years living abroad and loves to argue politics and philosophy - especially with our lawyer brother, which is just as painful as it sounds. Her diverse life experiences and penchant for playing "word nerd" (looking up strange words and getting people to guess what they mean) make her a great editor.

ChickAdvisor:
So dish, Claire. Who is your #1 celebrity crush?

Image via IMDb

Claire:
I have daydreamed about many a leading man, but the one I always come back to is Daniel Craig. His shower scene with Eva Green in Casino Royale was the moment I knew...

ChickAdvisor:
I don't blame you one bit. Who is your fashion icon?

Image credit: GAP

Claire:
Easily Sarah Jessica Parker. She was outrageously fabulous in SATC of course, but still pulls casual clothes together so effortlessly. Even when the paps catch her shlepping to the store, that woman looks amazing.

ChickAdvisor:
Does your closet channel a little Carrie Bradshaw?

Claire:
I wish! My closet is a mish-mash of comfy mom clothes and the gorgeously impractical things my sister convinces me to buy. So, very eclectic! But the main feature of my wardrobe is that it usually has at least one child playing hide-and-go-seek in it, plus the odd piece of leftover candy. And very likely any Star Wars weaponry I've confiscated that day.

ChickAdvisor:
Yes, I agree that I am responsible for all of your best clothes ;)

What do you do in your spare time?

Claire:
Let's see... if I had spare time, I'd probably spend more of it with friends, throwing dinner parties and finally learning how to use Photoshop.

ChickAdvisor:
Ok... so what are you actually doing with your spare time?

Claire:
It's somewhat embarrassing, and I really wish I had never started... but I can't stop watching the Young & the Restless! I keep breaking the habit, then get sucked back in eventually.

ChickAdvisor:
We've all been there, Sister. We've all been there.

Highlights from Claire

H1N1: The Vaccination Debate
* What H1N1 is and what your options are

Chatting with Emily Giffin
* Bestselling chick lit author answers our members' questions

Taking Control of Your Finances
* 5 Tips to get you back on track

Give a Little, Get a Lot from Nine West

Giving is "good for the sole", Nine West wants you to know. They have teamed up with Goodwill to do you a good deed and help you pay it forward.

Bring in your gently used shoes, boots, and handbags to any participating Nine West retail location in Canada from November 20 - December 13, 2009, and you will receive a coupon for $20 off your purchase of $100 or more. Nine West will donate all collected items to Goodwill - easy!

Check your local store for participation and further details.

e.l.f Cosmetics Now in Canada

e.l.f cosmetics is coming to Canada. Do you love it?





The popular (and wallet friendly!) line is now available at Zellers across Canada. Prices range from $4.99 - $12.99.

My favourite product so far is the eyelash curler. What's yours?

Susan Boyle Performace December 21st in Toronto

Who doesn't love Susan Boyle? The Britain's Got Talent Star will perform (and stick around to sign autographs) for a free standing room only crowd at Toronto's First Canadian Place at 12:15pm on Monday December 21st.

This will be her first visit to Canada and she says she's excited to visit and sing for us, but she can't possibly be as excited to see us as we are to see her!

Wanna go?

For people wanting to see the performance, access to the Waterfall Stage and designated viewing area in First Canadian Place will be limited to 2,000 people on a first come first served basis. If you'd like to get an autograph, 500 wristbands will be available at HMV in First Canadian Place only, on December 14 at 10 am.*

*One wristband per person - while quantities last. You must have a wristband in order to enter the autograph line.

Ste Anne's Spa Getaway

Who do you spa with? My friend, Caroline is the one who drags me out spaaing when I get too caught up in the daily grind to take a breather. The Spa at St. Anne's is her favourite. Last weekend we escaped the city for a day and took in the Pure Bliss Day Spa.

After an hour and a half driving through thick fog Twilight styles, we pulled onto a winding gravel road that led us to this:


Well there's no snow yet, so it actually looked more like this:

Built in 1858 by Samuel Massey, this stone mansion was his home. A later owner made additions to the house that led to locals dub it "the Grafton Castle".

The air there is sweet and fresh smelling of pine and lavender. A few lungfuls and we felt relaxed. Check in was quick, and I was whisked away to my first treatment.

The Pure Bliss package includes a $100 spa certificate, lunch, a wellness class and afternoon tea. You also get full access to the facilities and the gorgeous grounds where you can go hiking or book a horse back riding session.

I sampled 3 treatments: Pure Aroma Massage (starts at $65), Coconut Breeze Treatment ($120) and the Caribbean Foot Rejuvenation ($65). To see what I thought of those treatments, read my full review here.In addition to a small gym, various cozy sitting areas and out door hot tubs like this one (SUCH a treat!), they have a eucalyptus steam room that is heavenly for the skin, lungs, throat. I could have spent the day in that steam room. Though I didn't get a facial, my skin glowed and it felt cleansing for my lungs. One of the best parts of my day was sitting in the lounge with my book in my cozy robe, sipping tea and waiting to be whisked off to my next treatment.

We drove back to the city in the dark at 7pm after a full 11 hours of glorious relaxation and agreed it felt like we'd been there the whole weekend. Speaking of which, you can buy weekend packages too, starting at $299 per person.

Have you been here? Add your own review.

www.steannes.com

Winterize Your Favourite Booties!

You found your perfect winter accessories including this season's over the knee boots but before you wear them you don't want to get caught in the rain or snow. Speaking from experience, winter-proofing your boots is so important to keep them looking new. Nasty salt stains and snow can do a number on your favourite leather and suede booties.

Even if your boots are slightly older, you can make them look like new again with these two products Grangers sent us to try:

Clean 'em up. The dirty boots you pulled from storage can be made to look like new. Use a product like Granger's G-Max Footwear Gel Cleaner, $6 for a deep down clean.

Protect them from the elements. Water-proof and stain-proof your boots with a protector like Granger's Universal Waterproofer Spray, $11.95. This spray repels water and stains while allowing the material to breathe. Shake bottle and spray evenly over damp footwear. Allow boots to dry naturally.

Cleaners and protectant sprays can be found anywhere but if you like these ones from Granger, you can find them at MEC, Coast Mountain Sports, Le Baron, Valhalla Pure Outfitters, and other outdoorsy stores.

Oasis Opens at Sears

Sears Canada has just unveiled their new beauty concept, Oasis at Square One in Mississauga.

What is it? A more hands on approach to shopping for your favourite beauty brands and experiencing new ones. The new 3,500 square foot layout makes products more accessible for us to poke around, play with and test in store. You won't need to go counter hoping between the brands or hunt down an associate to get what you need, with the except for perfume, which is under lock and key.

Shoppers will also appreciate that they can get everything from classic drugstore brands including Maybelline New York, Garnier and L'Oreal to department store favourites such as L'ancome, Estee Lauder and Chanel.

Also in the mix are a few newbies like Lord & Berry and Iman, one of the first cosmetic lines geared exclusively to women with darker skin tones (it's about time, no?).

We were very pleased to see our own Canadian brands on display. Who doesn't love to shop local?

CARGO is here as is Consonant Body, a Canadian organic skincare line you must try. Even the journalists in attendance were chattering excitedly about which products they were currently using. Their Organic Foaming Face Wash is a top selling product.

Kristina Breckon and Consonant Body Founder, Bill Baker

These travel kits caught my eye because they are well priced and won't get tossed by security because they meet airport standards. Mental note to self to pick one up for my Christmas in Argentina!

We were very excited to learn about Tokia, an ingenious D.I.Y eyebrow kit that is as fool-proof as they come. Charming French founders Hélène Tokia Constantin and Patrick Constantin (another husband and wife team, woot!) were on hand to talk about the line and Hélène performed a demonstration on a willing journalist.


The SHAPEUPBROW Kit, $70 was inspired by Hélène's 20 years as a makeup artist and the desire for perfect brows every day. The kit contains 12 different shapes of brows (plastic guides you strap onto your head to precisely outline your ideal brow shape), along with a pair of professional tweezers, a white eyebrow pencil, a sharpener and eyebrow brushes.

Strap it on, fill'er in with white, take it off and pluck out the hairs that are outside of the white area.The results got a 'wow' from the crowed. I wish my "after" shot had turned out better or I would have included it.

This is a great gift idea for your lil' Sis who wants to start plucking her brows if you'd like to help her avoid the over plucking you did at her age... or am I the only one who, at 16 went from thick football player brows to looking permanently surprised? Thankfully Sarah takes care of that for me now, but I still think this is genius.

It was kind of Sears to think of our boys too, wasn't it?

Hairdo, by Ken Paves and Jessica Simpson is sure to be a hit. These inexpensive clip in extensions look surprisingly natural and are pretty easy to use. Get that high long shiny pony tail you always wanted, or clip in some bangs.

I tried the bangs. I have a photo. I'm not going to share it. There was nothing wrong with the product, I just look hilarious with bangs. I'm so glad I tried them before chopping my hair. Now you can too!
Fun little doohickeys to snap up on your way to the register like nail files, accessories, makeup pouches and more.

If Christmas arrives and you are short on gift ideas, they've made this really easy for you.

Oasis is in Square One in Mississauga and Mapleview Mall in Burlington. They plan to expand slowly to other locations.

Getting to Know You: Heather Loney

The talented Heather Loney first came to ChickAdvisor as an intern. Many months later, she is one of our core fashion contributors. This quiet gal may appear shy on the surface, but her thoughtful interviews with high profile talent like Eric del Monaco and Eddie Maleterre suggest otherwise. We thought you'd like to know more about the mysterious Miss Heather.

ChickAdvisor:
If you have to pick just one Hollywood crush who would it be?

Image via IMDb

Heather:
Bruce Willis. Heck yes.

ChickAdvisor:
It's true - he has that certain je ne sais quoi, in a grimy, explode-y kind of way... So when you're not daydreaming about him, what do you do in your spare time?

Heather:
In my spare time I read, write, take photographs, go rock climbing, and spend time with a hyperactive puppy. In my secret spare time I watch trashy television and Mandy Moore movies.

ChickAdvisor:
Tell us about your closet.


Heather:
My closet is in a state of transition. It is eagerly awaiting expansion, but has to continue with its cramped existence for the time being. It’s fairly organized, but those shoes need room to breathe. I’m thinking of commandeering the office closet and making it my shoe closet. The thought makes me embarrassingly happy.

I’m not so concerned with having the latest trends in my closet, rather than having pieces that will stay fashionable for years. I’m slowly leaving my disposable clothing phase, and well, I guess becoming an adult? I think that’s one of the signs of adulthood…buying items for quality rather than popularity…and making yourself go to the dentist.

ChickAdvisor:
What is the last thing you think about before you fall asleep?

Heather:
I think about all of the girls in the world who are thinking about Edward [Cullen] before they go to sleep, and then I vomit in my mouth a little.

ChickAdvisor:
I kind of love that you said that! What is your life's ambition?

Heather:
To finally convince everyone that I was right.

Highlights from Heather

Canadian Designer Series: Carlie Wong
* Our profile of this Project Runway Canada alum

Trend-Spotting: New in Sunglasses
* Are your shades in?

London Fashion Guide
* Navigate the British High Street with confidence

Winner of our Third Birthday Giveaway

ChickAdvisor is thrilled to announce the winner of our 3rd Birthday Giveaway!

Congratulations to...

ChickAdvisor Member Spoony!!!

Enjoy all your fabulous prizes! Thank you to everyone that participated and has supported us from the very beginning. A toast to the next 3 years! Cheers!

xoxo
The ChickAdvisor Team

Color Sensational Kisses Janine Falcon

Sponsored Feature

This week's Style Collective kiss is from popular blogger and Beauty Geek, Janine Falcon!

Janine is wearing Maybelline New York Color Sensational lipstick in Mauve-ulous at a Holt Renfrew media event

Janine is a writer, editor, makeup artist, and founder of the award-winning beauty blog www.imabeautygeek.com, the first by a former magazine beauty editor in Canada.

ChickAdvisor:
How did you start your blog?

Janine:
It started with Facebook stat updates. Really! My goofy updates got great feedback from FB friends (granted, they're all friends), which made me think, "Hmmm... blogging." In addition to being my own boss, I'd be able to write about beauty and style in a way I felt would reach women who wanted attainable ways to feel good about themselves. My first post, which is all about compliments, hit the blogosphere on May 1, 2008.

ChickAdvisor:
Who is your Beauty Icon?

Janine:
Honestly, my icons are people who can make the person in front of him or her feel wonderful. I'm a particularly huge fan of so many of our Canadian hair-and-makeup pros -- you'll see their names in our best beauty and fashion magazines -- especially when they work with women who don't always see their own beauty. (I adore makeovers for that reason.)


ChickAdvisor:
Which shade of Color Sensational lipstick caught your eye?

Janine:
Omigod, I want them ALL, the colours are insanely gorgeous. In an effort not to appear way greedy, I focused on Mauve-ulous, a deep berry shade that makes me feel daring.

ChickAdvisor:
What was it about that shade that got you?

Janine:
Deep shades are an easy way to add glamour to a simply made-up face. After a day of meetings or writing, I'll bust it out to dress up my face for an evening press shindig or cocktails.

ChickAdvisor:
What part of being a Beauty Geek is the most glamorous?

Janine:
Press shindigs, actually, whether day or evening (in the photo above, I'm actually at the Holt Renfrew Spring 2010 fashion preview.) PR pros find the best restaurants and locations to hold their product launches and often arrange for us to meet with and interview celebs such as Kate Hudson and Sarah Jessica Parker, and talented beauty experts of equal calibre, such as Serge Normant, Harry Josh, David Babaii, Ted Gibson, Val Garland, Greg Wencel, Paul Venoit, Diana Carreiro... I could go on!

ChickAdvisor:
What is the least?

Janine:
Deadlines.

ChickAdvisor:
We can only imagine what your makeup stash looks like! Can we take a peek?

Janine:
Behold an on-the-job selection from my bridal-beauty makeup kit:

It's a mere fraction of my accumulated beauty booty. I use a variety of brands I love, including Bourjois Paris, CARGO, CoverFX, Make Up Forever, GOSH, The Body Shop, Chanel, Quo, Benefit, L'Oréal Paris, Smashbox, CoverGirl, Rimmel, M.A.C, YSL, Maybelline, Bobbi Brown, Revlon... again, I could go on! Why do I love them? Great shades, great textures, great results.

ChickAdvisor:
If that's just a sampling, we can only imagine what your bathroom cupboard must look like!

Get more of Janine on her fun, quirky beauty blog imabeautygeek.com

Get another kiss

Get the scoop on the Style Collective

Celebrity Looks: Hit or Miss?

Hollywood celebs are the hottest trendsetters, for better or worse. So we're asking: will you follow their lead on any of these trends?

Plum Lips: They may be sexy and mysterious, but a deep dark hue might be too too. Shown here on Rihanna and Rachel Weisz, the plum shade definitely works for a variety of skin tones. Hit or miss?

Black & White Patchwork: The combination of black and white is always classic and chic. While we like the idea of spicing up this basic look, most busy patterns are not universally flattering. However, Kim Kardashian's spider-web pattern seems to accentuate and hide in all the right places. Hit or miss?

Fall Fuchsia Lips: Pink as the new red for Fall? We might love a bright fuchsia lip any time of year, but autumn isn't the obvious season for it. Hit or miss?

Sequined Metallic Dresses: Looking like a shiny disco ball is all the rage this season. You'll surely be the center of attention at all the parties - don't be surprised if people start dancing around you! Hit or miss?

Braids: Relive your childhood with a sophisticated version of braided pig tails. Not sure if that was the right braid for J-Lo, though - looks a little horsey. Hit or miss?

Sweatshirt Dresses: We wear sweats when our frumpy selves lounge at home or hit the gym. As comfy as these dresses look, we're not so sure about mixing it with heels. Hit or miss?

Photo credits: People.com

This Week on ChickAdvisor

Ever wonder what a weekend in Paris is like? Read on.

Toronto is full of unique finds. Check out ChickAdvisor's top boutiques in Toronto for 2009!

Mmm. Vegetable soup never looked so good! Add this to your list of recipes.

Products may have your makeup bags bursting at the seams. Did your top picks make our list for 2009?


Hot Topic of the Week: Finding the right bra is like pulling teeth. Have you had better luck?

Ali's Favourites: Jo Malone Holiday Cologne Collection

I'm obsessed with this.

Jo Malone's Holiday Cologne Collection of 6 luscious mix and match scents includes Grapefruit, Nectarine Blossom & Honey, Lime Basil & Mandarin, White Jasmine & Mint, Pomegranate Noir and Sweet Lime & Cedar.
As a perfume aficionada this is my dream gift. Do you love it? Read my full review here.

UPDATED November 16, 2009

Jo Malone products are available at Jo Malone Shops, www.jomalone.com, specialty stores including Bergdorf Goodman, select Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue stores nationwide, and are available exclusively at Holt Renfrew in Canada.

Win Advance Tickets to Twilight's New Moon

My friend, the lovely Ellen over at Lipstick Powder 'n Paint is giving away a pair of tickets to a pre-screening of New Moon that will take place on November 19th... and cast members will be present!

Here's the scoop:

"To celebrate the release of The Twilight Saga: New Moon on November 20th, Lipstick Powder N Paint are giving away a pair of tickets to the American Express Exclusive Gala Screening on November 19th, at downtown Toronto’s Historic Winter Garden Theatre. The screening takes place a full day before the movie premiers and will feature appearances by cast members. Guests will have the opportunity to view the movie, sit in on a Q & A with the cast members and attend an after-party where soundtrack artist Band of Skulls will perform."

Twilight fans should mosey on down to Lipstick Powder 'n Paint for more details on how to enter.

Weekend Movie Recommendation: Precious

If you're looking for a deep, grim tale full of hope and inspiration, then you must see Precious, a movie based on the novel PUSH by Sapphire. Be prepared with your tissues as Precious, a girl from the inner-city of Harlem, shares her heart-breaking tale of overcoming abuse.

Leave it to Oprah to produce an Oscar-worthy movie! The powerful cast includes breakout performances by Mo'Nique and newcomer Gabourey Sidibe (Precious). You will surely be inspired by the human spirit's ability to find hope in the darkest circumstances.

Have you seen this movie?

Read the reviews on RottenTomatoes.com

Stella McCartney for Baby GAP

Stella McCartney's adorable collection of baby wear for Baby GAP is now in stores.

Plaid, soft cashmere sweaters, tutus and adorable baby trenches in muted greys, greens and pinks are the predominant themes.

As expected, the price points are higher than other items in the store, but not out of reach.

Since sizes go all the way up to 12, petite adult women will be pleased to know they can fit an item or two and no one would ever know it's from the kid's section! This trench and a gorgeous dark grey belted sweater are two items you could get away with for yourself.

...but please don't do that with the tutus. Leave these ones for the kids ;)

What do you think of the collection?

Expected Site Outages

Hi Everyone, just a quick note that the site will be down for about an hour today while we do some upgrades with our server.

Thank you for your patience and have a great Friday!

Would You Buy This? Boots that Tighten and Tone

I have recently wondered if "multitasking" is another word for "doing many things simultaneously, but poorly". So when a product comes out that takes something off my full plate, I want to jump on it immediately.

Just in time for a yucky start to the wintry season, my inbox is slowly filling up with ads for cozy boots that promise a toned tush simply by wearing them. Is this the cat's pajamas, or just another gimmick?

The footwear is designed with a layered curved sole that adds instability to exercise your abs, legs, and glutes while improving posture and gait. You might compare it to walking barefoot on springy moss or soft sand.

Some styles that recently caught our eye:
Skechers Shape-Ups Fitness Boot, Endless.com $149.95
* available in black or chestnut

MBT Goti Casual Mid Boot, Endless.com $354.95

FitFlop Inuk Boot, Endless.com $199.95
* available in black, chocolate, and chestnut

Have you tried footwear that claims to tighten and tone?

Psst! Endless has a promotion on now for $25 off your purchase of $125 or more on select styles.

Joy's Top Ten Makeup Products

It's no secret that I have claimed to be a "makeup junkie". I will proudly admit to my addiction. No matter how many products fall into my makeup kit, there are my holy grail of products that this gal just can't live without! Here are the top 10 must-haves in my beauty stash (in no particular order):

1. Shu Uemura Eye Lash Curler: My lashes are stick straight. Shu Uemura lash curlers are known for fitting a wider eye and getting to all those hard-to-reach lashes. Can't live without this!

2. Lancome Oscillation PowerBooster: Anything that will help my lashes look better you'll surely find in my makeup bag. This vibrating mascara primer by Lancome primes my lashes well while making them feel and look fuller and longer. While the vibrating action adds some lift, I think enjoy the tickling sensation more than anything else.

3. CoverGirl LashBlast Mascara: I've tried a million mascaras, but CoverGirl's LashBlast is the one I always come back to. My lashes are always voluminous and full plus you just can't beat the price!

4. Anastasia Highlighting Brow Kit: Nothing says polished then well-groomed brows. I rarely leave the house without filling in my brows. This multi-use palette can be used as an eyeshadow as well - dab the shimmery shadow to the inner corners to brighten.

5. Benefit Erase Paste: Death circles be gone! This creamy concealer covers and brightens the under eye all in one. Can't leave the house without this on!

6. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow: Day into night this cream shadow does not budge. I only have one shade in Galaxy but I am hooked!

7. Stila Smudge Pot in Bronze: This bronze gel liner/shadow from Stila is my go-to shade when I'm in a pinch. When I need a quick smokey eye, all I need to do is smudge this into my lash line and crease. Add a few coats of mascara and I'm done. The bronze shade compliments any blush or lip colour.

8. Benefit Hoola Bronzer: This matte bronzer in a box has been a staple in my kit for years. Love the natural faux tan effect plus the signature Benefit packaging is uber cute!

9. Smashbox HALO Perfecting Powder: Despite the high sticker price, I just can't deny the flawless radiant results I get everyday. I usually have flaky skin, but this powder really does hydrate!

10. Kiehl's Lip Balm #1: I've tried many a lip balms in my day, but I just love the rich coat of this balm. My lips are super dry and get very chapped so I don't mind the glossy rich texture. Love all the different flavours it comes in as well plus the added SPF is a bonus!

I would have listed my favourite lippies and blushes but that would require a separate top ten list! There are just too many I love!

What are your top ten makeup must-haves?

Getting to Know You: Joy David-Tilberg

Joy David-Tilberg is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. This is the girl who holds your bag while you indecisively try outfit after outfit during a busy ShopCrawl, delivering compliment after enthusiastic compliment despite suffering from a nasty sinus cold (not that I would personally know this.... okay, yes). Is she all softy? Or is there more than meets the eye...

ChickAdvisor
A girl's fashion muse reveals a lot about her, so who is yours?

Images via AudreyHepburn.com, CelebrityClothingLine

Joy
I love a combo of Audrey Hepburn and Kate Moss. Classic chic with an edge.

ChickAdvisor
Does this translate in your wardrobe?

Joy
If my closet could talk it would say, "wha-whaaa". It really is quite pathetic. My closet is a mix of this and that mostly from Zara, Gap and Joe, but if I had my choice it would be full of Chanel and Marc Jacobs purses, Louboutin shoes, BCBG dresses, Michael Kors, Balmain, YSL, and DSquared2!

ChickAdvisor
Your Zara blazer was the front runner in a recent ChickAdvisor pose-off! So tell us more - is there anything in your closet you said you'd never wear, but now do?

Joy
Flats! Ever since I was a teen, I was self-conscious about being a shorty. I was always in heels, platforms, wedges - anything that would give me height. Now, I can't handle wearing heels for a long period of time.

ChickAdvisor
What do you do in your spare time?

Joy
Spare time? What's that?? If I had some, I would probably catch up on my beauty sleep...

ChickAdvisor
Speaking of our rarely-indulged favourite hobby, what is the last thing you think about before you sleep?

Joy
"Ahh, it feels good to lie down!" followed by "I hope my young son doesn't wet his bed tonight..."

Highlights from Joy:

Fierce Fall Makeup
* It's Classic Hollywood meets Fall 2009

Beauty Trends: High Def Makeup
* Is high definition makeup worth the investment?

Prom Hair & Makeup
* Graduation Beauty tips and tricks

Old Navy Early Spring 2010 Preview

I know - it's only November, but everyone is excitedly gearing up for Spring and since I'm not a winter lover this makes me very happy.

Old Navy's collection is a cheery and versatile. Even if you don't normally shop here, the accessories are a smart buy. Gossip Girl inspired headbands are a steal for around $12.




These boots are only $39.50. Can you believe it?

Flower pins can be added to any top or used to hold a sweater or scarf in place.

Maxi dresses are still hot, but is it ok if I request you only wear one if you are 5"4 or taller? On a shorty, they are a little bit harder to pull off.






The Painterly Tote for $19.50 was my favourite piece. It's equally ideal for running errands about town or stashing your beach gear.

The early spring collection will start trickling in stores already in late December/early January.

Which piece do you like the best?

Best of Deals

Every so often, we come across some great deals that bear special mention. What's better than finally buying a Coach bag or loading up on some GAP basics? Not Paying Retail For Them. Exactly.

Coach Factory Stores offers up a 20% off coupon toward your next purchase. This deal can be applied to sale merchandise!






Hollister is clearing Outerwear, 30% off the entire stock.







Urban Decay's online only event gets you a sweet 30% discount...







...and Bath & Body Works builds a stocking stuffer stash with $10 off a purchase of $30 or more.





Check our Deals page often for the latest deals on beauty, shopping, restaurants, travel, and more!

This Week on ChickAdvisor

50 Product Review Club members will each get a free Shea Body Butter from The Body Shop
From our wedding series: How to choose the perfect venueWe've seen all of the spring collections, but how do you wear it off the runway now?
Mom's sharing her award winning (and secret!) apple pie recipeHot Topic: Help! Practical tips when your hair is thinning...

Deal of the Week: Give & Get 30% Off event at GAP, Banana Republic, and Old Navy. You get 30% off, charity gets 5% of the proceeds!

Color Sensational Kisses Catriona Smart

Sponsored

This week's Style Collective kiss is from Catriona Smart, a.k.a Coco from Coco & Lowe, an online social media site that reaches women who are fashion forward and engaged in enhancing their lifestyle.

ChickAdvisor
Tell us how Coco & Lowe came to be.

Coco
We started our site in 2008 because Lowe and I found we were constantly getting questions like "where did you get that" or "where's a great place to eat in New York City?" or "What should I wear to this event?". We thought a site would be the perfect platform for us to share our insider knowledge on everything from fashion to travel to how to's and must see's.

ChickAdvisor
Who is your fashion icon and why?

Coco
Coco Chanel is fashion icon for her simple style sensibility. Clean, beautiful elegance with a touch of masculinity all bound together to create what would become the representation of the quintessential French woman. Effortlessly chic.

Coco is wearing Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick in Red Revival

ChickAdvisor
Which Color Sensational lipstick shade did you choose?

Coco
Red Revival because it's a classic red and dresses up any outfit instantly.

ChickAdvisor
Where do you plan to wear your new lip colour?

Coco
I would wear Red Revival two ways. 1. To a red carpet event when I want to channel my inner pin up. 2. To brunch when I want to rock a super simple look with a clean face and a white tank, letting my lips do all of the talking.

Coco applies Red Revival

ChickAdvisor
What is the most exciting part of your job?

Coco
The most exciting part about my job is that it is constantly changing. I love new things and I get to talk about them all day long.

ChickAdvisor
What is the least?

Coco
The bags under my eyes.... But I'm not complaining! Nothing a little concealer can't fix ;)

ChickAdvisor
I hear you on that one!

You are always dressed to the nines, whether it's attending an event or popping into Starbucks for a caffeine fix. (I saw you the other day. Was it Chanel you were wearing?) Give us a peek inside your fabulous closet!

Coco
This is my accessories closet. As you can see, I have a shoe problem...

Coco's enviable accessories closet

ChickAdvisor
Girlfriend, that is a good problem to have. I'm just jealous you have an accessories closet that is bigger than my ENTIRE closet.

Read more about Coco & Lowe here

Get another kiss

Fan Mail Friday

I'm so pleased to offer another round of the hilarity we get in our inboxes almost daily. Despite our poking fun here on the blog, the emails continue to roll in from people who mistake ChickAdvisor for everything from an ice cream store to a deodorant manufacturer.

This one's a stinker...

"I am teaching a grade six class of 23 students and personal hygiene has become an issue and I was wondering if there were any way that I could possibly bother you for some samples of your deodorants to hand out to my students. I personally use your product and find that it works great and I would love for them to have that opportunity too. I have 13 girls and 10 boys."

Erm...

"We would like to come on your show to showcase our products and services. *** (We) provide hair replacement units also known as medical wigs, human hair hairpieces and extensions for men, women and children experiencing mild to severe degrees of hair loss; due to hereditary, chemotherapy, alopecia or other health factors. Our units are not only utilized by individuals experiencing hair-loss but also entertainment performers and upcoming stars."

Thank you for assuming we have one already..

"can you give me your adresse of chickadvisor in montreal .please thank you"

... but we don't.

What's New: Dynamite's 1st Fragrance, Rachel

Are you Rachel?

Rachel 50ml eau de Toilette retails in Dynamite stores for $29.90 along with 10ml rollerball ($14.90) and 125ml body cream ($15.90)

Last night ChickAdvisor attended the launch of Dynamite's first fragrance, Rachel. Rachel has been Dynamite's muse for 35 years, yet she's a twenty something, and not in the 'I'm celebrating the 6th anniversary of my 29th birthday' kind of way. Rachel embodies who the Dynamite customer is: a light hearted, spirited, confident sexy woman.

So what does Rachel smell like? Dolce & Gabbana's popular Light Blue immediately comes to mind, but once it settles in and mixes with your skin chemistry you'll find it changes. On me, the mid notes of white cedar, jasmine and freesia become more predominant than the top notes of lemon verbena and apple leaves. Blonde woods, palissander and clear amber make up the base notes.

Sister chain, Garage also unveiled their signature fragrance, GRG; a lively bubble gum scent that your 'lil sis will go bonkers for.

Here are a few photos from the mini fashion show with Dynamite's holiday collection. As you can see, these models put our pose-off to shame, but hey - they're professionals!

Getting to Know You: Marayna Dickinson

Marayna Dickinson didn't happen by ChickAdvisor; she happened to ChickAdvisor. As our Paris correspondent, she brings her zany but entirely lovable personality to her writing. This is the person you want to travel with - I think she could convince anyone to try anything.

ChickAdvisor
I'm steeling myself for this one: what is your nickname and how did you get it?

Marayna
Radar – press ‘play’ on Britney Spears’ song ‘Radar’ and at about 0:40 you’ll hear for yourself. It sounds like she’s saying ‘Oh, Marayna’ throughout the chorus. I nearly fell off the treadmill when I first heard it.

ChickAdvisor
Who is your #1 celeb crush?

Image via Pop Culture Nerd

Marayna
Hugh Laurie. Call me insane but I thought I was the only one who enjoyed seething sarcasm and nibbling on shirt cuffs.

ChickAdvisor
And your fashion Icon?

Image via Calypso Chronicles

Marayna
“Coco” Chanel. Her passion, independence and absolute refusal to accept ‘no’ for an answer are inspiring.

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

Marayna
Meeting David Hasselhoff on my 25th birthday in Paris. To everyone’s surprise, he wasn’t eating a hamburger, flying through the air singing or talking to a car with super-powers. He was just taking insane pictures of a completely empty bar sequestered in the back of the bustling restaurant.

ChickAdvisor
What is one thing you never thought you would do?

Marayna
(Indirectly) admit that I listen to Britney Spears while I work out.

ChickAdvisor
I'm sure you're not the only one. *cough*

Highlights from Marayna

The Boyfriend Jean: How to Wear It
* Move over, skinny jean fans

Paris Night Life
* A night on the town in the City of Light

Adventures in French Cuisine
* In her words, "strap on the Depends" and try something new

Jessica Jensen 75% off Holiday Sale This Weekend

Toronto: Looking for a new bag? We recommend you check this one out!

Cozy Things Pose-Off

This pose-off is brought to you by bags of cozy winter samples from La Senza, GAP, Old Navy and Banana Republic. They sent along some kids stuff for photography too, but though Joy may be short, the Stella McCartney kitty sweater in toddler size was asking too much of this talented model.

1. La Senza Plush Booty Slippers, $14.50 CDN 2. GAP Plaid Bag, $54.50 CDN 3. GAP Men's Hunting Hat, $34.50 CDN 4. GAP Scarf

As you can see, Joy continues to out pose me and she always gets the better outfits. I especially wanted to wear the ear flaps hat but it was Men's medium and this noggin needs a large. Thankfully I snatched the pink fuzzy slippers from the bag before she could get her mittens on them and as you can see, I'm a fairly talented foot model. If I'm honest I should disclose that I've sock modeled before. It was socks, in Winnipeg, for Superstore. Truth!

5. GAP Plaid Hobo 6. Old Navy Cable Knit Beanie Hat, $14.50 CDN 7. GAP Head Band 8. GAP Plaid Vest, $74.50 CDN 9. Banana Republic Belt, $50 CDN

Here Joy is laughing because finally there was a hat that fit both heads! We liked the checkered patterns of the bag and vest and I have to admit I was quite tempted to tuck it away in my closet and hope no one would notice.

Now I just need to work on striking another pose besides hands on the hips ala Green Giant.

Nifty Shoe Storage Invention: Structube's CIAO Shoe Cabinet

My condo has the tiniest front entrance. You open the door and you are bombarded with shoes. I've tried the traditional shoe rack but it ends up looking like a jumbly mess and more often than not, the shoes end up on the floor like this:

I've been looking for a good shoe solution for awhile and finally found the CIAO shoe cabinet from Structube. It's a 3 drawer shoe system where you stuff as many as you can into tidy little drawers, close them and voila. Now my teeny tiny entrance looks like this:

Are you impressed? It's a bit pricy at $169 but for the visual improvement and the fact that I don't have to kick shoes on my way in and out, I feel it's worth it.

Note: Does not come with orchid... and sadly the shoes are not included either.

What do you think? Is it worth it?

Update:

You've been asking about exactly what kinds of shoes or boots, etc can fit in here and how many so I've included a few more pictures:

Boots!Folded over, you can fit 2 pairs max.

Men's shoes!
You can fit 3 + soccer ball shoe freshener ;)

Heels!
3.5 pairs to be exact!

Getting to Know You: Megan Matthews

Megan Matthews is the girl you immediately like: funny, smart, and unpretentiously stylish. A core member of our fashion reporting team, she always has some zany story to share. Speaking of which....

ChickAdvisor
I always have to ask: do you have a nickname? (Also, can you possibly top K-Dawg?)

Megan
Muff is my nickname. And most people giggle at this, given it’s a name that can mean other things...

It started off as Muffin, a name my family called me as a kid, then shortened to Muff. Now, it’s caught on with friends. My mom used to call in university and leave a message on the voicemail saying ‘hi Muff!’

ChickAdvisor
Do you have a celebrity crush?

Photo credit: Hubert Boesl/Corbis

Megan
Zac Efron. Yes, I’m almost a decade older. And yes, having a crush on him may be bordering on cougar-status; but he is fit, dreamy, talented and well-dressed. In 17 Again he was like the ultimate guy (when he looked 17, yet acted 30 - which sounds so inappropriate as I write it). He’d be the one I’d be cutting out of my Teen Beat Magazine if I still had a subscription.

ChickAdvisor
Who is your fashion Icon?


Megan
The J. Crew catalogue. When it arrives each month, I must find the perfect moment to flip through it. There can’t be distractions. It can’t be when I’ve just paid all my bills, and I’m broke – I need to feel like I can at least get something from its perfect pages, like a bible of perfect styling. If I could, I would buy every outfit in it, and wear it as is. Not original? Perhaps. But would I look darn put together? Confirmed.

ChickAdvisor
How would you describe your closet?


Megan
A mix of classics (10 pairs of black dress pants and counting), with a dash of uber-girlie trends. Ruffles? Check. Lace? Check. Sequins? Check. I mix and match my classic pieces with my trendy pieces.

But the real star of Megan’s closet? Accessories. Bags, shoes, necklaces, cocktail rings, scarves, hairbands with oversized flowers, you name it... I think you can make any outfit fabulous with the right accessories.

ChickAdvisor
The last thing you think about before you go to sleep is...

Megan
... what am I going to eat for breakfast. Shreddies or Raisin Bran? Cereal is my favourite food. Its sustenance got me through university.

Highlights from Megan

How to Host a Clothing Swap
* Bring your totes, not your claws

When to Have the 'Label' Discussion
* Is there a good way to say "so, where do we stand?"

Aritzia F/W 2009 Fashion Showcase
* Canadian boutique success story's fashion show

ChickAdvisor is a Finalist for CNMA Hottest New Digital Kid on the Block

Yessss! *Fist pump!*

A little bragging is ok, yes?

ChickAdvisor has been named as a finalist for the Canadian New Media Awards as Hottest New Digital Kid on the Block. Hosted by nextMEDIA, the award will go to a startup digital media property that demonstrates innovation, original concept or content and above all, user engagement.

ChickAdvisor.com is Canada's first social network for women 18-40 that has thousands of user generated reviews of products and local services. Over 1.5 million women visit ChickAdvisor every year, participating in online reviews, offline shopping parties, videos and product sampling through the popular Product Review Club. ChickAdvisor experienced 167% growth in the last year and anticipates 2010 will follow suit with an exciting new strategy that will soon be announced.

Color Sensational Kisses Alison Lawler-Dean

Sponsored Feature

For the month of November we are featuring several beauties from our Style Collective, a collection of Canada's top fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogs. These sites are likely already part of your daily fix but this month we'll be getting up close and personal with the talented women behind them to find out everything from the best perk of their jobs, to their ideal shade of lipstick.

First up is the gorgeous Alison Lawler-Dean, a writer, stylist, and publicist. She created Gifted (www.givegoodgift.ca), a website full of fun gift ideas from DIY projects to designer digs with the mission to help you give good gift.

Allie is wearing Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick in Mauve Me.

ChickAdvisor
Why did you start your blog and when?

Alison Lawler-Dean
Gifted was launched the fall of 2008 as a creative outlet to combine my love of writing and finding unique items (read: shopping).

ChickAdvisor
Who is your fashion or beauty icon and why?

Alison Lawler-Dean
Jackie O for her classic elegance.

ChickAdvisor
What is the most glamorous or exciting part of your job?

Alison Lawler-Dean
Access to the latest products and fabulous launch events. I love to be ahead of the curve on what's next.

ChickAdvisor
What is the least?

Alison Lawler-Dean
There's not much bad about it. I'm my own boss, I get to write about the things I love, anyway I want and hopefully help people find special presents for their friends and family.

ChickAdvisor
Show us your stash! Ours is mostly oodles of the latest beauty products. What's yours and can we see it? Alison Lawler-Dean
This is one of my several gift drawers overflowing with fun finds I keep on hand til I find the perfect person to give them too.

ChickAdvisor
What is your ideal shade of Color Sensational lipstick?

Alison Lawler-Dean

Mauve Me. Its the perfect hit of colour - subtle yet sophisticated.

Allie's Mauve Me lipstick

ChickAdvisor
Where would you be most likely to wear that colour?

Alison Lawler-Dean
A Saturday night out - dinner at a cozy, new restaurant with my guy followed by drinks and laughs with our close friends.

To read more about Allie and Gifted, check out her website at www.givegoodgift.ca

To read more about Maybelline's Color Sensational Lipstick, check out the Product Review Club offer we have going on right now or their website to pick your own ideal shade.



All photos by Alison Lawler-Dean

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Hot Topic of the Week: Would you sleep with a married man? See what our members are saying.

Deal of the Week: Jones New York Factory Coat sale. Expires November 4!