Chapters Indigo Simply Holiday Gift Guide

I have to admit it-I only buy books at Indigo as gifts. My own books come from the library, from the second-hand books stores, and from Value Village ($1.50 a pop!). However, I find Indigo an ultimate gift store-anything from gift cards, to CDs, to calendars, to candles...

This season Chapters Indigo is offering a whole bunch of good deals, especially if your list is long. My favourite-spend $100 in-store, and get a Roots leather overnight bag for only $59 (a $150-dollar value). Your folks get the gifts, and you get the duffel bag...Nice!

Indigo is also offering its own "Best of the Decade" book list:

1. The Books of Negroes by Lawrence Hill
2. The Birth House by Ami McKay
3. The Shadow of The Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
4. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
5. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
6. Eat Prey Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (my personal favourite-great book!)
7. A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah
8. The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
9. The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
10. Life of Pi by Yann Martel
11. The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
12. Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond

In addition, the store has a huge selection of "coffee table" books on sale, as well as some great biographies, candles, sweets, grooming products, and decorations.

Tip: Grab their in-store catalogue and find a 25% off coupon!

F.

Harbourfront Skating Rink is Open

Image by John Swannell and Elena Fini from the website here

Capa and a lot of other people I know go skating to the Harbourfront every winter. This year, I've decided to join them and learn to skate. I am looking forward to sliding gracefully across the ice, but.... I am the clumsiest person out there, so bruises and cuts are inevitable.

The Harbourfront Rink is open 7 days a week 'till late. Admission is free, and skate rentals are very reasonable (rentals available Mon-Fri, 10a.m.-6p.m.). The rink also offers skating classes-see the complete schedule here.

The DJ Skate Nights begin this Saturday, Dec. 5, and will run every Saturday 'till Feb.13. Full schedule and details will be posted here shortly.

I will be attending a drop-in learn-to-skate workshop on Wednesday, December 16 @7p.m ($20+ skates rental fee). You are welcome to join!

F.

What to do this weekend (after midnight), Nov 27-29

1. Friday. Timo Maas (extended set). Get yourself on the guest list if you're going
Footwork, 425 Adelaide St. West, 10pm-5am, $20+, footwork.com

2. Saturday. La Petite Mort. Electro, Club House, Tech and Minimal House
The Rearview Mirrow, 193 Baldwin St, $5, facebook.com

i want...

k.

What to do this weekend (before midnight), Nov 27- 29

1. One of a Kind Christmas Show
Features an endless selection of handcrafted items created by talented artists and craftspeople.
Nov 26 - Dec 6, Direct Energy Center, Exhibition Place, tickets $10-12, oneofakindshow.com

2. Photorama 2009
Features over 100 pieces of artwork, including a new photograph by Edward Burtynsky, one of Canada’s most respected photographers.
Opening reception Nov 27, 6-9; Dec 28 - Dec 1, noon-5, free
Gallery TPW, 56 Ossington Ave, gallerytpw.ca

3. Cavalcade of Lights
The festivities kick-off on Sat, Nov 28 at 7:00pm with the lighting of Toronto’s official Christmas tree, fireworks and live musical.
Nov 28 - Dec 31, toronto.ca

American Apparel Rummage Sale - Nov 27-29

American Apparel is bringing its rummage sale to Toronto! Hundreds of garments to choose from. Up to 85% off, inventory replenished throughout the day. Free admission. Cash, credit and debit.

590 King St West, Nov 27, 28, 10-9; Nov 29, 10-7
more info here

k.

European Film Festival is still on (until Dec 3)

The European Film Festival is still on. Most of the movies are screened at The Royal Cinema located in Little Italy on College st. To my surprise it is a cute, most likely, recently renovated cinema.

Overall the selection of movies is great. There are some bad ones but most of the movies are worth watching. I watched Cannes Grand Prix winner A Prophet that I enjoyed a lot.

Come approximately an hour before the movie. Wait in line until the tickets are given out, then go grab a bite or cup of coffee before the movie starts.

Thursday screenings: Time to Die from Poland and Black Ice from Finland

The schedule is online at eutorontofilmfest.ca

Older post

k.

Gap, CK, and SSense.com Deals

Image is from Ssense.com. Current/element jeans on sale.

These retailers are having some sweet shopping deals!

1. CK V.I.P. event at Vaughan Mills mall-receive 30% of regular price and sale items Thursday, November 26, 6-9p.m. For details, click HERE.

2. Black Friday Exclusive Offer from ssense.com‏-get 30% off storewide.
Enter SSENSEBF at checkout.

3. Gap "Buy 1, get 2nd at 60% off" sweaters start today and last 'till Nov 27.

Enjoy,
F.

The new place to eat pizza is Burlington...

1. Pizza with mushrooms 2. Bar with a good wine selection 3. Center lighting fixture 4. Tiramisu 5. Expert in Italian food – Liana

This Saturday I was lucky enough to be a part of Friends & Family event at the new Italian pizzeria Eatalia, a creation by Hanif Harji, the owner of Kultura and Nyood in Toronto. The restaurant has just opened this Monday.

Don't get too excited, that it might be located somewhere in between Queen West and King East, where the other two restaurants are situated. No! Burlington is, apparently, a new hot spot for expending the business! The richest of our citizens own property in Oakville-Burlington area and don't have much choices besides Jack's Hotdogs or some Montana's to enjoy an evening dinning.

However, it doesn't mean they are willing to pay a fortune for a brand new restaurant. So, not to scare them away, Eatalia's prices are very reasonable for a pizzeria (I don't mean Pizza Pizza).

The restaurant itself is situated in a former bank building. The structure is very 70's-80's inspired with the stone wall and a round front glass window. The interior was designed by Commute Home. They did Kultura and Nyood as well, that helps to create some consistency in Hanif's projects. The design doesn't scream "pizza" or even worth "Italia". There are few interesting elements that are appropriate for a semi-casual dinning with affordable prices.

As food is concerned, it was great! With a lot of attention to details. But, as my Italian food expert Liana has said "unless the ingredients come from Italy in a super fast plane, the taste won't even be close".

But for the rest, if the flight to Italy seems a bit too long, the 45min drive from downtown to Burlington will get you some sense of a mini trip and a great evening! Very recommended!

And good luck to Hanif in the unknowns of the Surburbland!

Eatalia, 527 Brant St., Burlington


To shake that pizza, pasta, tiramisu and wine off we went to the party at Nyood on Sunday from 12 - 6. Every third week of each month you can extend your brunch into dancing on the tables to a loud club hits with Mimosa glass in your hand. And, you'll even have enough time to sober up and prepare for a working Monday.
Check the restaurant's website for the next Brunch party and book a table. It gets packed!

Nyood, 1096 Queen West, Toronto nyood.ca

k.

Alexis Bittar

Here is my new obsession - Alexis Bittar jewelry. I love his versatility and boldness. HERE is his site, and HERE you can find some of his creations up to 50% off (selection is limited).

F.

I Love Cardigans!

My boyfriend says that cardigans are for old people, but I keep buying more and more. They are fashionable, versatile, warm-just perfect for fall and winter!

My favourite store, Club Monaco, is offering a great selection of wool, cashmere, and cotton cardigans in all shapes and forms. Preview the entire collection HERE.

Cheers!
F.

Discount Coupons from Dell.com

Looking for a new computer? HERE are some coupons for Dell's on-line store.

Enjoy!
F.

Mark Fast for "Real" Women

A few days ago I came across an article in Flare magazine about a Canadian-born British designer Mark Fast. The 8-line wright up focused on Fast's Spring/Summer 2010 collection that caused a stir in the world of high fashion. So, here is my little review of his "curves-friendly" runway show.

Mark Fast is a Canadian-born London-based knitwear designer who made it big in the last 6 months. You can read more about him HERE. In the nutshell, he hand-crafts his fabric on a knitting machine, and this allows him to create "movement" in otherwise structured garments. For his Spring/Summer 2010 runway show he created several outfits for "regular" women and used non-models to showcase them. A great idea, but... Fast used his "down-to-earth" not-so-much-in-shape women alongside the professional models. The contrast ridicules anyone larger then size 2. I've attached some of the pics for comparison.

As to the garments themselves, I can't say I am too impressed either. The fishnet/cobweb thing looks cheap and unwearable.

Your thoughts?

F.

30% off Outerwear - Hollister

If you are a Hollister fan-then this is for you. They are offering 30% off all outerwear between Nov. 8 and Nov. 29. I've checked out the store this week-some things look really cute, but very overpriced. I guess the 30% off make them more attractive.

Black Friday Bath & Body Works Promo

Come to B&BW on Friday, November 26, and spend $40 or more on your faves. You then get to buy a "Black Friday grab bag" for $15 ($100+ value). The usual grab bag includes 6-10 full-sized products, a bath poof, a make-up pouch, etc... Think of it as a great way to get some stocking staffers and gifts for not-so-close-but-important folks.

EVENTS: this week...(so far)

WHODUNIT? at OCAD
Annual mystery art fundraiser by famous and soon-to-be.
Nov 18-21, whodunit.ocad.ca

MTV live
If you're really bored or for whatever other curious reasons, you can be part of the audience on MTV live.
Mon-Thur, arrive at 5:30, to get the tickets visit mtv.ca

The Next Dimension of Fashion
Celebration of top and upcoming Canadian fashion designers who view fashion with an added green dimension.
Ontario place, tic $25-$40, Fri, Nov 20 R4 Fashion.com

Gallery Listings for This Week
from nowtoronto.com

Gourmet Food & Wine Expo
The Gourmet Food & Wine Expo offers our 35,000 guests an opportunity to sample over 1200 fine wines, spirits and beers from around the globe.
Nov 19-22, Convention Center, South Building, $15 Foodandwineexpo.ca

k.

European Film Festival, Nov 19-Dec 3

Two weeks of award winning European films from 23 countries.
Free admission, based on first come, first served basis.
Three locations: Bloor Cinema, The Royal, Cineplex Odion Varcity.

Schedule and more information on eutorontofilmfest.com

k.

EVENTS: NUJAZZ Festival,Nov 12-14

The opening day has already passed. But the weekend is just starting and... the Jazzanova is on Saturday. If don't have birthday parties to attend this weekend, this is a great opportunity to enjoy some good music.
Nov 12-14, various locations

More info on nufunk.ca

k.

BR Shopping Event For Flare Readers

Banana Republic on Bloor(80 Bloor St. West)is hosting an exclusive shopping evening for Flare (and Fira&Capa) readers on Wednesday, November 18th, 5-9p.m.
All attendants will receive 25% off discount on all purchases, cocktails and canapes, BR gift with purchase, and a chance to win a $300 hand bag.

Please, RSVP before November 16th to
PRRSVP@gap.com or 416-355-2444


F.

Note To All:Gap and BR 40% Off Every Wednesday 'till X-Mass

I have visited Gap and BR yesterday (BR has some out-of-this-world Holiday looks) and found out that they will be offering 40% off one regular-priced item every Wednesday 'till X-Mass. I have my heart set on some fabulous jewellery, a black backless dress, and a silverish cocktail tunic.

Let's shop!

F.


P.S. Oh, and some great news for Club Monaco fans... Their sale items are refundable 'till January 14th!

Club Monaco-Take an Extra 25% off All Sale Items

The Sleeping Beauty at the NBC is On Now

NBC is opening this Fall season with Tchaiconsky's The Sleeping Beauty. This ballet is said to be "the greatest of Tchaikovsky-Petipa collaborations" (source: NBC's website).
The DanceBreak program for ballet patrons under 30 is a great opportunity to enjoy NBC's performances for $20. Unlike the COC's Opera For The New Age, DanceBreak offers a selection of orchestra sits that normally sell for $160. Tickets can be purchases starting midnight the day of the performance on NBC's site or in the box office.

F.

Note to All: Kiehl's Will Pay Taxes This Weekend

I love-love-love Kiehl's products! I really shouldn't be buying anything that expensive, but I just can't resist the service, unlimited samples (and the ones you actually want, too), and the old-fashioned apothecary-style bottles.

This weekend Kiehl's will pay taxes on your purchases. HERE is their site for details.

Enjoy!

F.

Just another useless website - Trench Coats on the City Streets

To be honest, I have never really expressed much interest in fashion. I watched the shows for creative aspects as I'd watch theater or a good commercial or for the music...To contradict a lot of earlier posts - i hate shopping, especially for cloths. But, i love when I have new things or even better when i manage to pull together something new out of the old cloths.

And, I'm in love with street fashion!

Here is a site I just checked out! Burberry's Art of the Trench. In additions to good images by Scott S., the whole site is put together well. Also, it's interesting how the brand is trying to connect to it's customer through everyday fashion. Plus, a lot of shots are from TO! yeh

artofthetrench.com

k.

20% Off Everything at Sephora-3 Hours Only!

V.I.B. Exclusive shopping event is happening this Friday, November 13th, 6p.m.-9p.m. Also features are hottest make-up application tutorials just on time for the holidays!

Leave a comment with your e-mail and we will forward you the coupon!

F.

Gap, BR, and Old Navy-30% off

Get 30% off at Gap, BR, and Old Navy stores November 12-15. Offer is also valid at BR outlet store.
Gap is offering a selection of amazing wool v-necks, and BR has everything you need for the holiday season in stock! I am a huge fan of BR jewellery-and this year is particularly good!


Enjoy!
F.

Sephora's Gift With Purchase-On Now!

Spend $50 or more before taxes at Sephora and get a free metallic clutch filled with 8 deluxe samples.

Reia Studio Sample Sale-November 11-13

Reia Studio is having another sale on BlueSuede bags. Most sell for $20-$30, and some mildly damaged ones are given out for free!

555 Richmond Street West, Suite 706

Lacoste Shoe Sale

Lacoste Footwear Sale from Style Democracy.com

Nov 12-15
Airport Road at Derry Mississauga

more info here

Yorkdale is Nelia! Vote for Our Favourite!

Our fellow blogger-Nelia from StyleBlog is contesting for the first prize in "Yorkdale Is Me". The contest has fabulous prizes:

• A feature role in Yorkdale’s spring 2010 ad campaign
• Fashion photo shoot with celebrity photographer Chris Nicholls
• $1,000 Yorkdale gift certificate
• A 2-hour wardrobe consultation with a member of the Yorkdale Dream Team
• Toronto Fashion Week sponsor prize package VIP access to the 2010 Spring Toronto Fashion Week shows

We love Nelia's great sense of style, savvy shopping habits, and bubbly personality. Vote for her HERE.

Good luck Nelia!

Picture is property of Yorkdale.com

Gap Introduces New Loyalty Program

Gap, BR, and Old Navy will now have a new loyalty program called "Sprize". The program piloted in Vancouver, but will soon be expanded to include all of Canada. The program is really different from anything I've seen before. It "allows shoppers to buy clothing at full prize and receive automatic credits should it go on sale any time in the following 45 days. Customers can then spend their savings at the Gap, Banana Republic or Old Navy stores" (sourced from Marketing Magazine)

Gap had some really nice collections lately, with good fabrics and quality basics (cashmere-blend cardigans, merino wool v-necks, silk shirt dresses). However, i barely buy anything at regular price-I prefer to wait for sales and promos, especially since Gap has such a great return policy.

F.

Bedo 50% Off Sale-1 Week Only

Bedo is having their semi-annual half-price sale on all merchandise. There are several locations in TO-Queen West, Yonge and Bloor, Square One, and Fairview mall. I am not a huge fan of their cloths, but Capa gave me a Bedo trench coat more then 5 years ago, and I am still wearing it!

F.

St. Lawrence Market 205th Anniversary

St. Lawrence is turning 205! Come by the market on Saturday, November 9 from 9a.m. to 4p.m. and celebrate with food, fun, gourmet specials and more!

More info HERE.


F.

Spend $50 At Club Monaco And Get A Free Gift

Here is another Club Monaco update (have you noticed-this is my favourite store!).

F.

Some funk and soul for Thurday night

Whoever is up for some funk and jazz and reggae on Thursday night, there is a party happening by these guys - parkdale funk at Mitzi's Sister.

Mitzi's Sister, 1554 Queen West, more here

k.

Healthy foods to keep the flu away

I felt like sharing this article with you from Chicago Tribune about key foods to help build up your overall immunity. It's basic and simple and I've heard it before from my super health conscious mom. It's just a reminder that diets are not just for losing weight.

The list is simple and consists of: mushrooms, fresh garlic, salmon, almonds and etc...more here

k.

Events for this Week (Thur) - comic books & art

SpeakEasy's Annual Comic Book Show
The SpeakEasy Comics Show features an eclectic mix of Toronto’s talented comic book artists - from those who do newspaper strips and political cartoons, to underground comix and mainstream superhero comic books!
Thurs. Nov 5, 8pm - midnight, Gladstone Hotel, info here

Art Off the Lot
Artist represented exhibition bringing Canada's best and brightest talents to for everyone to experience.
Nov 5-8. Opening reception (cocktails & hors d’oeurves!!!). Nov 5, 7-11pm, 1030 King St., West, info here

...damn, why is everything happening on the same day! I'll be at the opera...

k.

Bloor Cinema-November 2009

Capa and me are planning to attend "The Karamazovs" on the opening night of the EU Film Festival (November 19, 6p.m.).

"Laurence Of Arabia" is screening on November 29, 2:30p.m.

There is something strange going on with their website, but keep checking http://www.bloorcinema.com -may be they will fix the problem

F.

Sale at SSense.com-Extra 20% off today till November 9

As a follow-up to the previous post-you can get extra 20% off all purchases till November 9! I found these Diesel sneakers for $30 (only sizes 38 and 40 available)
ssense.com

Diesel Sale at SSense.com-30%-70% off

My favourite on-line shopping site is having a mid-season sale! Most importantly, they are taking deep discounts on Diesel and Diesel Black Gold labels. Some really cute shoes are 50% off (only certain sizes are available). There are also jeans, tops, and dresses on sale.

ssense.com

Let's shop!

F.