Tag Archives: lifestyle

Trending: Camo Print

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Who would of thought that those three-quarter camo print shorts from high school, lost deep in your closet, would be a current fashion trend? (Clarification: I mean the print, and not the three-quarter shorts, of course.)

The print, obviously borne for military and hunting purposes, made its way into the fashion realm more prominently after following the successes of past military-inspired ensembles that included the trench coat and military boot.

I’ve been noticing the trend on both men and women alike. It’s worn in many different ways as seen on the local hipster walking down queen street west and even on the professional corporate employee (especially if they have a knack for style). There’s no denying the print itself – on a coat, sweater, shirt, shoes or skinny pants –  is a statement piece. And, for it to be considered the least bit attractive and stylish, camo print pieces should worn with simple and plain articles. Too many shades and patterns worn all at once, can be busy on the eyes. Don’t torture the onlooker.

You don’t have to search high and low to find a good camo print piece. If you’re looking to be on a budget, check out your nearest surplus store – I’m just skeptical whether or not the fit would be what you’re looking for. I’ve been searching for my own camo print jacket and came across these great finds, all differing in style and fit:

(L-R: Club Monaco, Urban Outfitters, Asos)

All in all, you can already figure that the camo print is definitely a tricky pattern to pull off. It’s bold and modish yet, versatile. It can be dressed up or dressed down. Club Monaco does an excellent job making the camo jacket super workwear chic.  Either way you know what they often say in fashion, “it’s not what you wear, its how you wear it”. It’s such a must-have piece to have in your closet. Don’t be discouraged by the word “trend”; I think we’re going to see these styles run longer than most others.

Let’s just say, I think it’s not such a bad idea if you consider joining the army.

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Filed under Fashion, Lifestyle, Shopping, Style, Uncategorized

A Vagabond, though Rooted in Style

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Don’t call it a comeback. Sorry folks! I’ve been missing in action for the last couple of weeks so that may explain the delay in my posts. My, have I missed this.

It’s summer and what most people do when they have some time off is: travel. Who wouldn’t? I heard an awesome quote a few days ago that goes like this:

“The World is a Book. When you do not travel, you only read one page”

As an aspiring self-proclaimed vagabond,  I want to read this book from cover to cover. Even twice.

This summer, I will be travelling to Europe in August, specifically Ireland and Scotland for 2 weeks to visit my sister and her husband who currently reside there.

I like to think I travel a lot, maybe not as much as I want since expenses hold me back, but for the most part, I try to. And, most times when I do travel, I rarely find the time, patience and even space to pack my whole closet – thus, finding ways to be super stylish but also comfortable (especially for the sight-seeing adventures) when you’re in the streets of Paris or Milan seem impractical unless you’re Beyonce or Mariah Carey (who wears 5 inch heels to Disney World? I’m just saying.)

The point is when you travel, you pack light, you pack for comfort and you also pack for the weather.

It would be easy packing for Mexico or any other hot destination because the majority of your luggage would be bathing suits. But Ireland and Scotland in August? Hmmm. That’s a tough one.

In Ontario, Canada where I reside, our summer’s are fairly hot and humid. But in Ireland and Scotland, apparently it’s not so much. Word has it – it rains. Frequently. Often. Maybe, all the time with hints of sun light here and there.

From what I hear though and what I’ve read, all that rain makes Ireland and Scotland what is is; Lush, Green and Beautiful. My sister Nikki has reassured me the scenery is breathtaking.

Is this a perfect opportunity for photo sessions with breathtaking scenery then? I think yes!

But you better believe it –  I plan to be a little stylish tourist ready for the weather and the rolling green hills!

Below, I have compiled 4 different outfits I would probably see myself wearing when traveling to Ireland and Scotland.

Who says you can’t be damn cute in the rain?


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T.Babaton – Bergen Blouse in Abstract Animal (originally $120) - www.aritzia.com

T.Babaton – Alvin Shorts (originally $110) - www.aritzia.com

Printed Lace Raincoat (originally $89.32) - www.freepeople.com

Dilute Leopard Loafers (originially $80.00) - www.Anthropologie.com

 The Kinney Reader Eye Frames ($200-500) - www.needsupplyco.com

 Gold Arc bracelet ($80.00) – www.shopsupplyroom.com

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Taluta Trooper Jacket – in Surplus (originally $120) - www.aritzia.com

 V-Fringe Brown Purse ($25.00) – www.brandymelvilleusa.com/

 Always in Bloom Dress ($34.00) – www.shopconversationpieces.com/

 Sam Edelman Lisle Ankle Boot (originally $160) - www.urbanoutfitters.com

 Max & Chloe – Emily Elizabeth Jewelery Polished Fern Leaf Bangle ($98) - www.maxandchloe.com

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Lizzie Fortunato Medicine Woman Necklace (approximately $200-500) - www.francesmay.com

 Citizens of Humanity – Dylan – San Marco Denim Pants ($236) - www.aritzia.com

 Vivid Beginning Oxfords ($79) - www.Anthropologie.com

Super Duper Strength –  Karen Walker Sunglasses - www.karenwalkereyewear.com

 Sail Me Away Shirt ($21.00) – http://www.conversationpieces.com

 Fashion Rebel Vest by Strong and Dickerson ($78.00) - www.shopconversationpieces.com

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River Island Beaded Tribal Belt ($24.86) - www.asos.com

Loeffler Randall Rain Boot ($150) - www.loefflerrandall.com/

 Community Prana Sweater – Finch (originally $85) - www.aritzia.com

 Wilfred Wallis Skirt ($125) - www.aritzia.com

The Classic – Cambridge Satchel Company ($150-250) - www.cambridgesatchel.co.uk/

 Anthropologie Hertiage Rain Coat - www.Anthropologie.com

 Deep Freeze Karen Walker Eyewear - www.karenwalkereyewear.com

Jean Paul Gaultier Umbrella ($75.00) - www.openingceremony.us

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July 18, 2012 · 15:59

When was the last time you heard yourself breathe?

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Pardon me. I apologize – I haven’t blogged in a few weeks. Let’s just say I was out-of-commission. For the last couple of weeks, putting words on a paper, or I should say putting words on the screen seemed a somewhat daunting task. I’ll tell you why.

Candid, I normally am. But, just recently I am actually shy and embarrassed to admit for once that I found myself in a deep, dark, lonely and crippling hole. I felt so incapable of controlling once closeted fears, so much so that I was paralyzed, unable to fight the dark thoughts that clouded my mind. I was so forgone in my own mental, emotional and  psychological chaos that I forgot and was afraid to live. I am and probably still undeniably so, experiencing a state of constant anxiety and panic. Anxiety and panic over what? I’m not quite sure.

I can’t quite pinpoint my problems (if any, even exist or if they are merely a figment of my imagination).

I consider myself the average person, going through the natural worries of being a freshman in adulthood. A quarter-life crisis, is what they call it. I’m sure I’m not the only one who raises the questions: What am I going to do for the rest of my life? How much money am I going to make? Where am I going to live? When will I get married? How am I going to survive?

Typical, I reckon.

So why the exaggerated stress over worries that are quite common? I think it may be how one handles stress. Not everyone can cope with stress in nonchalant ways. I’m definitely not one to do so.

Looking beyond doctors and medicine, the question really is: how do I deal with magnified stress on my own?

Answer #1: Speak, Read and Educate yourself

I was searching online looking for forums and blogs that would help me understand this anxiety I had. People that could relate or at least share advice on how to handle stress. It is quite helpful and there’s someone always willing to talk to you. The most interesting piece of information I got, was when I was scrolling through my twitter feed and came across a tweet that read: “If you’re stressed, read this.” This blog post was absolutely brilliant and thought provoking. It made me really dig deep when it brought up the question, “when was the last time you heard yourself breathe?”  (click image below to read the post).

Answer #2: Yoga

I can’t believe I am only hopping on this wagon now. Yoga, is anything and everything I was missing in my life. It’s unfortunate that I only realized its value in decreasing with the potential of eliminating stress all together in my life. For all those searching  for peace and tranquility, this Hindu practice of mental, physical and spiritual discipline will be healing and rewarding. I’m no pro yet, but the desire to be or at least on par with other yogis is definitely there. My good friend, Sarah Mariano (www.sarahmariano.com) who is a fitness and yoga instructor is kind enough to teach me the power of yoga and all its benefits. In my next post, I’ll show you guys how I’m keeping up in that practice.

Answer #3: Breathe girl, breathe

That is probably the most simple, yet idiotic answer I can share with you. As a person who has constant anxiety and panic attacks, I know how it may be when you’re having an episode – inhaling and exhaling may not always seem to work – the panic, worry and anxiety are still there. It irritating when people say to “breathe” or “relax”. It’s easier said than done, I understand. Your mind is so powerful that it can work for you and even against you. That’s the beauty of it, isn’t it? But to get over an episode and even to overcome stress or a stressful moment is to breathe (no huffs and puffs here, but slow breaths…count if you must). Call it cliche or amateur advice if you will, but your mind, body and soul will thank you for it. I’ve already received my thank-yous.

Breathe. I’ll be back to post again soon.

Happy image via momzynoor.tumblr.com, relax image via angelinapillay.tumblr.com, and breathe image via va-nilla-c-o-l-a.tumblr.com.

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Confessions of a Shop-a-holic on a Budget

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle 

As I have mentioned in prior posts, I am, like many other women out there, into style, fashion and beauty. This comes as no surprise. I am also, like many other women out there – a shop-a-holic. No, this is not so much a  full blown Compulsive Buying Disorder (though, there are elements of that). Put simply, I just find enjoyment in shopping and perhaps even see the antidote to day-to-day problems  is by expanding your wardrobe and decorating your wrists, ears and neckline with sparkly things.  However, often synonymous with being a shop-a-holic means you gotta break the bank. And, that’s simply not true all the time. Forgive me, but not all of us have the luxury of being the daughter of a wealthy banker or the wife of a NBA star. Money doesn’t grow on trees for most of us.

Even with this fact, finding enjoyment in shopping and spending money on things that make us feel and look great are not experiences reserved for the wealthy. Unless you’re going for the “I’m all brand baby” look, being true to style doesn’t mean there is need to spend $5,672 on that Prada bag when you know you can find something almost equivalent to it somewhere else, for less the price. On that same note, being a shop-a-holic, I confess I have splurged on over priced Wilfred tunics at Artizia and sheer blouses at Club Monaco. However, I too, have made the conscious and creative decision to buy and wear secondhand clothing. I am a bargain hunter or a shop-a-holic on a budget. I am a Thrifter (by choice).

Cringe and shudder if you must, but like many co-thrifters, we see value in this type of shopping – it’s affordable and unique. Where else can you find high waisted Levi’s cut off shorts and crochet belly top tanks? Oh, Urban Outfitters? Sure. But, I paid under $10.00 for both at my neighbourhood thrift shop and not $10.00 on just taxes. While some may find themselves staring at the other girl across the bar on a Saturday night wearing the same pencil striped skirt from Forever 21, the thrifter could be wearing that vintage styled pencil skirt you’ve never seen before anywhere else.

Thrifting is not a new phenomenon. As a kid, I remember my sister who is 10 years older than me, was doing some of her shopping at Value Village and Salvation Army. However, thrifting I believe, has grown in appreciation especially in the fashion realm where everything that is old is considered new, again.

While there are many thrift shops in and around Toronto, Stacey and I decided to hit up the thrift shops super North-East of where we live. There is a common assumption that downtown has all the treasures, but we discovered that its just simply not the case. Everywhere, all over the city, the reality is people throw away good things. They often say, “one (wo)man’s trash is another’s (wo)man’s treasure”.

Dropping by two thrift shops in suburbia, going through rack after rack, and shelf after shelf, Stacey and I stumbled upon pieces of clothing and accessories reflective of current pieces found at higher end retail stores. On this adventure, we took home about six pieces we thought were distinctly original, justifiably priced and within our spending budget for the day.

An intricately woven leather belt (shown far left in above photo) with a touch of a cowboy wistfulness cost us only $3.99. While, a pair of  vintage Guess denim jeans, that we later want to cut up into shorts cost us only $0.99. Trending all over the city streets and magazine editorials are long skirt and Stacey and I, couldn’t help but fall in love with a warm orange coloured and a rich forest green silk ankle skirts that cost us only $4.99/each. The finishing touch to any outfit is the accessory and the brown vintage clutch for $5.99 acts as that perfect asset.

Stay tuned to see how we put these thrift finds together to make a Spring/Summer 2012 outfit…

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InstaStyle via Instagram

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Just a few months ago, I switched my phone to the iPhone 4S. Verdict? Best thing that I ever did for myself. Besides how impressive the camera is, the modernity and degree of  actual value the phone has in relation to other phones, the app downloads are probably the only crucial factor separating phones apart from each other, in my opinion at least. Instagram, being one of the most valuable apps for iPhones/iPads. Sorry Blackberry users, you don’t get the perks of this gadget. But maybe Facebook might help you out sooner or later. I won’t even waste my time commenting about the Facebook takeover. Though, I will admit, for Kevin Systrom and Mike Kriegar, $1 billion ain’t too shabby (see here for more details).

Instagram which receives a complete 5 star rating from its 15 million users, is an app that brilliantly shares photos in a clean, simple way where users are able to edit their photos by picking from 15 different filters to add a little bit of drama and art to their photos. Clearly, a hipster and wannabe photographer’s dream. The social aspect is there of course, where you can interact with friends and even strangers. It is similar to Twitter, though if you’re like me, where reading tweet after tweet can get boring and overwhelming – looking at pictures really require no effort except a swipe of a thumb. Can you tell I was one of those kids who would pick the book at the library with more pictures than words?

Like many instagram users, I genuinely get a kick out of looking at “artsy” photos. The enjoyment doesn’t only exist in looking at photos of your friends snapping shots of their sushi plate at a high end downtown restaurant or even their view at the basketball game. I find enjoyment in being able to follow friends and even my favourite fashion and style bloggers instagrammers.

I was recently reading up on my twitter feed and stumbled upon a link to ELLE Magazine’s Pop Culture section that did an article on their favourite fashion instagrammers (click the image below to direct you to the article). Though brief, the article highlighted a collection of instagram profiles like Leandra Medine (Creator of ManRepeller.com) and Hillary Kerr & Katherine Power (the founders behind WhoWhatWear.com). If you check their blogs on the regular online, you would probably get your quick fix off of their instagram  account. You know what to expect already; cute shoes, cute clothes, cute this, cute that…

ELLE was right in picking the accounts that lead the fashion pack. However, I believe they are missing some contributing profiles that are synonymous for instagram fashion and style. I took screenshots from my own personal instagram of the profiles I think are worth a follow (free promo here!):

  

L-R: Alice + Olivia, Aritzia, Asos

   

L-R: Harper and Harley, Nasty Gal, Thessy & Yiota (Saboskirt)

   

L-R: Aimee Song, Julie Sarinana (SincerelyJules), The Coveteur

I’ll spare you the details of each profile. I reckon that you will be tempted to check one if not all these profiles based on just the thumbnails of these images. What should be an influencing factor in deciding whether to check these profiles out is that they  all have interesting and inspiring perspectives on style and fashion. They all bring something creative to the table, even though they’re all using “X Pro II”, “EarlyBird” or “1977″ filters to enhance their photos. Well hey (for most instagrammers), we’re guilty of it too.

Photos were screenshots via Instagram

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Filed under Art, Beauty, Culture, Fashion, Lifestyle, Photography, Shopping, Style, Technology

Ditching a Toxic Friendship

Posted by: Stacey Maka

Most of us have found and moulded our friendships that we still have to this day from elementary school and high school. And as life goes on, everyone graduates/gets jobs, and eventually some of you lose touch with each other. However, there are the few that you at least try to see regularly or on the little free time you have. With these friends that you do continue to grow with sometimes things change along the way too, and they often do. Into your 20s you are developing as a young adult figuring out your needs and wants constantly. There are a few friends I needed a break from or in some cases just had to drop. It is a weird feeling knowing this friend you once couldn’t get enough of and shared so many experiences with just isn’t doing it for you anymore. We use this excuse of, “but I’ve known them forever,” to try to convince ourselves this is why we should keep them in our lives. We keep this debate and just stick it out, but the fact is we are making it worse on ourselves, and it’s also unfair to your friend that you feel this way about. They might think everything is ok but behind their back you’re complaining about them to others. So first things first, talk to your friend and if that doesn’t help and things just aren’t going to work out…you need to dump them. I mean with any type of dumping, they are no pretty results (literally).

It took me a long time to decide to dump a friend or not. I was a “but I’ve known them forever” person. But just weighting out the pros and cons helped clear my mind. How does she benefit in my life? What has she done for me recently? Does she make me feel great about myself? Why does she annoy me so much now? What changed…or didn’t? I also kept in mind that I might lose more than one friend from this since we shared the same friends. Yea I know it sounds pretty shallow but it’s the cold hard truth. We’re scared of not belonging somewhere or having no one and that’s perfectly normally. But if you choose to keep putting up with it when you know it’s not good you’re just lying to yourself. I did have to give up a lot after my friend break-up, but I felt as if a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders and that I could move on. The friendship was always on and off, and it was a continuous feeling of stress having to look out for her and giving advice she rarely or never took. I was emotionally drained. If you feel stress from a friendship you need to get the hell out. But in seriousness even if I was the one who broke it off it still affected me emotionally. I did just loose a friend that I thought would be there till the day I die…or she dies (lol). Just tell yourself that there is nothing wrong with change. What kind of person ever wants to be in an unhealthy relationship anyways? If you have an instinct that something doesn’t feel right you should listen and do something about it. These are some warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored: A good friend would never…

  • Give you backhanded compliments. Friendships should be about respect and support for one another. A true friend would never make you feel as if you’re not good enough.
  • Not look out for your best interest. If they don’t care what you do and let you do something stupid when they know it’s stupid themselves, they’re in it for the drama and to see you go down. Dump them immediately.
  • Keep conversations one-sided. I think we’ve all encountered the “me show” type of friends who rarely ask questions about you and go on yapping about themselves. You know more about them than they do know about you.
  • Backstab. This is a big one. Trust is a huge issue, so if you’re friend is talking behind your back they sure as hell don’t respect you.

I know, it’s easier said than done. If you’re unsure, you can gradually create a space between you both. And if your friend notices then go on to explain how you feel. Hey, it might actually work out but if not and they don’t come to acknowledge your feelings then it’s another sign you need to evaluate again or even end your friendship. But to end things on a “good term” (*wink*), the truth is you grow up and realize that this person just isn’t a part of this stage in your life anymore. When it comes down to it genuine friends will bring out the best in you.

 

Image via fanpop.com

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Filed under Friendships, Lifestyle, Rant, Relationships, Social Issues

Didn’t Mama Teach You Better?

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

It may seem something of an irrelevant topic to tackle, but I have a question for you dear readers: Are manners still important today?

Perhaps it may be too broad of a topic to dwell on whole-heartedly but I wanted to touch upon it because I witnessed two incidents over the past week relating to that subject.

I recently started working at my former restaurant again as a server. Those who work in the service industry, constantly interacting with different people will understand that it is inevitable that we cross paths with “interesting” characters.  That’s what makes working at jobs like this rather entertaining. While, those who know me, will agree that I am easily amused – I, in fact didn’t find myself chuckling at an incident I witnessed take place at a few tables away from my section.

Here was this tall brunette with a cute bob cut and perfectly shaped bangs, wearing a classic black blouse, skinny tapered jeans and 3 inch heels to add to her already model-like height. Wine class in hand standing next to the door, arms crossed, tapping her feet – I passed by her aiming for my section when she stopped me and demanded I do her a favour. In a somewhat bootleg Demi Moore mixed with a chain-smoker type of voice, she exclaimed why I should explain to my coworker who was serving her table, why it’s OK for her to split from her blind date from hell (perhaps, she was looking for another woman’s perspective on the situation). Perplexed, I looked at my coworker with a “please clarify” facial expression.  In a nutshell he told me, “She is unfortunately unhappy with her blind date, does not want to go back to her table and she is requesting that I drop the bill off so that he leaves and she doesn’t t have to deal with him.” He did not look happy about having to do this (I mean, I wouldn’t be either. You question now where do you draw the line; you have to please customers and as much as you want to say, “Bitch, handle that **** on your own”, you just can’t).

Here’s the kicker. She hid in the woman’s bathroom, claimed she was waiting for one of her girlfriends to join her at a new table and urged a host to get her jacket that she left at the table.

I was stunned. Are you serious?  You’re a grown woman and you’re running away from a date?  Not to mention making servers and even bystanders, do you’re dirty work. That’s classy.

Granted, there are two sides to every story and maybe the guy was rudely inappropriate or a nut-job.  (For the record, the server of her table noted that this “date from hell” was really just a “date from Star Wars” – that’s at least what he observed.) The problem I saw with this was not the fact she had a bold opinion on the matter, but more so just the way she handled the situation.

In all honestly, maybe I’m being bias here because I felt bad for the guy. Here he was, round figured man with generic glasses and a little receding hairline, who was patiently waiting at the table for his date to arrive from a 20-minute washroom break. In my opinion, I’ve been on terrible dates before but that’s no way to treat another person. What you have to remember is it’s a date. It’s not marriage and sometimes, you just got to bite your tongue and pray to God that it ends soon. That’s it. Or she could have gone the blunt, but classier route and thanked him for paying for dinner but apologized for having to cut it short.

I understand there may be different opinions on this. Some may commend this woman on her “realness”. Fine, one point for her on being “real”. But the topic I’m dealing with is manners. And, there was lack of any in this situation. And frankly, it was painful witnessing it.

What I think you can gauge from this topic is this: I appreciate people who have manners and a virtuous civility.  A simple, “thank you”, “I’m sorry”, “Excuse me”,  “Pardon me” goes a long way. You know when you open the door for someone and they don’t say, “thank you” – it irks you. You end up shaking your head, rolling your eyes or murmuring “*******” under your breath. Come on, this is elementary. Didn’t your mama teach you these things when you were a kid?

This situation I’ve mentioned here regarding “the runaway dater” is just a detailed, more intense scenario of that ill-mannered person. Perhaps that situation also falls under the category of “Dating Etiquette 101” or “How to Stay Cool, Calm & Collected”.

Regardless of which, this situation has spawned the question of: are manners still important today? The answer to me is they should be and in times like these, when we’re so consumed with different things, we sometimes forget about the subtle differences manners make.

Take for instance another scenario I witnessed. From a distance, an old fragile man with his wife approached someone he knew to greet him, but when he reached out to shake hands, he simultaneously took his Oliver Twist cap off with his other hand as a sign of respect. Am I the only one who still thinks this is admirable? Call me old-fashioned and conventional, but forgive me if I think it’s refreshing to see, hear and know that some people are still having the decency to be polite.

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Svpply me with what I WAnt, NEed and LOve

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

How convenient is it being able to buy a pair of denim jeans that are only physically sold in Japan or being able to avoid the line up and overly anxious customers at your favourite local store all by way of the Internet shopping trend.

I will make it known that I have recently found an obsession over this new way of shopping. I come from a family where females are the majority in the household. So, it comes as no surprise that I am surrounded by shop-a-holics (if you knew my sisters, you would understand). Poor daddy, had to deal with once an overflow of shopping bags lying around in the house to now an overflow of shipment boxes and excessive doorbell rings from the Purolator guy.

Independent shopping sites are extremely convenient. Yes, if you’re looking for something specific from a specific type of online store. But what would top that convenience and also add a little visual stimulus and social media connection is having online “superstores” which sell or link to other shopping sites through one site.  It’s similar to an infamous “Wal-Mart”, except that it’s online, it has higher end suppliers or brands, and of course, a different clientele. Wait, just scrap the “Wal-Mart” analogy, you know what I’m getting at.

As an avid shopper with a keen eye for style, I don’t mind spending “x” amount of hours in a day hunting, stumbling and finding new things. Two of my most favourite sites that act like one big continuous shopping channel but also have a touch of a social aspect to them are www.svpply.com and www.wanelo.com.  (These sites should have a disclaimer warning other shopaholics and fashionistas it may foster increased spontaneous spending habits).

Svpply.com

Svpply, is a site where people discover the products the love by communicating with members and their postings. Every one of their 1.1 Million products on their site are by efforts of the members sharing and posting their finds over the web.

For instance both men and women will be exposed to an array of higher end clothing and online clothing shops such as http://www.lagarconne.com, http://www.norestore.com and http://www.endclothing.com. Also, they’ll soon discover new media types such as BULLET Magazine, an art and fashion quarterly from sites like http://www.needsupply.com.

Wanelo.com 

Wanelo, pronounced “wah-nee-lo” comes from “WAnt, NEed, LOve” (How creative is that? ) Started by Deena Varshavakaya, it is a social store curated by the community where they share, post, organize and follow products they like. You’ll find things and link to other online shopping sites you never even knew existed.

For instance, you’ll stumble on obscure things like this type of coffee mug from http://www.thinkgeek.com or this unique chandelier from http://www.potterybarn.com and even this native inspired hipster backpack from http://www.tillys.com.

Mind you, these channels I find are for those who like to spend their time searching for the rarest things. It’s for the shopper and style feen who would normally spend their time at Marshalls, Winners or Value Village hunting through the racks, browsing hanger by hanger until something strikes them. And I’m that type. I patiently find reasons to spend a buck. Ha!

You’ll find that both these sites are somewhat similar but they offer qualifiable differences. At the end of it all, they both serve their purposes. They socially, creatively and in fact brilliantly lure us into a spending frenzy. No one ever said that was a bad thing.

Maybe, only Dad.

 

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