Made-to-Measure

For anyone who has ever had difficulty shopping off the rack, it seems as though there is no real solution to your frustration. Whether sleeves or pants are always too long or not long enough, to boxy, unflattering fits, it sometimes seems that designers have mass produced things that don't really fit anyone correctly. The reality is, designers use fit models to base the construction of the pieces that make-up their collection for any given season. That means if you are not the same size as the fit model (enter laughter here!) you probably aren't finding the best fit.

Now to be fair, some designers do a great job of offering a variety of fits, from slim to more generous to try and accommodate us 'average' folk, but even still finding something that fits you perfectly can be a daunting task.

I was recently asked by an Edmonton start-up, Venator Avenue Custom Clothiers if I would be willing to test out their made-to-measure shirts. Made-to-Measure can seem like an ideal solution to end your off-the-rack woes, but it can often be a costly and tricky experience to navigate even if you know what you're looking for. After grilling the guys about their business model and asking why someone would choose them over more established made-to-measure offerings, I was pleasantly surprised and agreed to test our their shirts.

The first step in the process was meeting with one of their sales consultants, in my case, an eager, knowledgable fellow named Dylan whose passion for style and clothing shined through immediately. He was quick to build rapport with me and engage me in the steps of the process, from taking my measurements, to selecting the perfect fabric, he was adept and skillful without being presumptuous or making me feel uncomfortable. In fact the session flew by rather quickly - another benefit he reminded me of making things easy for gentleman with a lot on the go. As my session concluded, Dylan explained the process and what would happen next, ensuring all of my questions were answered. A few weeks later, as promised, I received a message from Dylan that my shirt was ready for delivery and we scheduled a fitting. A perfect fit. [I am going to digress here for a moment...]

A PERFECT FIT! Okay, when does that happen?! Never! Trust me, I have been down the made-to-measure road many times before with varying degrees of success, but rarely with a perfect fit, first time out of the gate!

[...and we're back] Dylan ensured everything fit as it should and reviewed care instructions with me, as well as offering some other handy tips. From a customer service standpoint alone, these guys had already delivered on their promise. Needless to say I was impressed.

In fact I was so impressed that I am in discussions to host an event to help promote their new brand. For those of you whom are clients and are looking for certain pieces to enhance your wardrobe, this might be the perfect opportunity to do so. More information will be coming about the event which will be in June of this year.

In the meantime guys, feel free to connect with me if you are interested in hearing more about Venator or if you're interested in a consultation. I am happy to work with you to facilitate you getting what you're looking for in your wardrobes.

I want to send a HUGE thanks to both Dylan and Stuart from Venator, these guys were so great to deal with. I am looking forward to more made-to-measure pieces being added to my closet.

be unique.
style guy.

Mercedes Benz Start Up - 2013

It is that time of year again, the snow is melting, spring is right around the corner and the teams at Mercedes-Benz, IMG and the Fashion Design Council of Canada are joining forces to search for the next top rising fashion designer in Canada!

Mercedes-Benz Start Up is an ongoing initiative, now in its' third year that provides a national platform to discover and support emerging Canadian fashion designers. The program connects these up and coming designers with business experts in hopes of taking their collections to the next level of success. Each year the program visits a different mix of cities to try and uncover talent no matter where in the country that talent might be!

This year the program is visiting the following cities:

Calgary - Tuesday April 23, 2013
Laval - Thursday May 23, 2013
Winnipeg - Tuesday June 18th, 2013
Kitchner - Thursday July 11, 2013

Eligible designers can get more information on the program and apply by visiting mercedes-benzstartup.com

Last year, the eponymous Montreal based line, DUY, created by Duy Nguyen was given the top prize. Known for his sharp tailoring, quality fabrics and sound pattern-making Duy was a favourite with both the crowd and with the judges.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity, this could be your year! Alberta had a particularly strong showing last year sending designers Malorie Urbanovitch, Lauren Bagliore and Nicole Campre to the semi-finals.

be a fashion designer.
style guy.

A Few of My Favourite Things 2012

It is hard to believe that the holidays are upon us already this year. As you know, each year I put together a list of some of my favourite things, enjoy!


Mont Blanc Starwalker Red Gold Fountain Pen - $1165

Mont Blanc is known for their luxury watches, writing instruments and leather goods. If you are in the market for a pen that will undoubtedly set you apart from your peers, this limited edition Starwalker might be the right gift for you. I have a friend who purchases a new Mont Blanc pen each year to mark his successes in business. Sounds like a tradition worth taking note of!

 

 

Denim Jeans by Lee - $65

 

 

 

 

 

I am always interested in finding that perfect pair of jeans and this year Lee has made a comeback with styles and fits that are current and fashionable. My favourite is the slim straight leg, pictured above. It comes in both a darker wash or a slightly lighter more distressed look.

 

 

Burberry Cashmere Scarf - $425

 

 

 

 

Classic Burberry, classic style and of course warm!

 

 

Elton John & David Furnish for NEST Fragrances Candle - $50

 

 

 

 

There are many things to be said about a candle that costs $50 - but in this case, the money is for a good cause. When Sir Elton teamed up with NEST to create this candle it was with the goal of donating to his AIDS Foundation which provides funds and research to stop the spread of HIV and AIDS. I can think of far less productive things to do with $50, so why not donate and help the cause?!

 

Rolex Submariner - $11,995

 

 

 

 

 

Those of you who know me, understand my penchant for luxury watches and Rolex usually isn't on the top of that list. Instead I often opt for Breitling or Bell&Ross, and I have had my eye on Hublot long before Jay-Z was rapping about them. But this year, I couldn't help but notice the limited edition green Rolex Submariner. To obtain this look, Rolex mixed gold with aluminum and the result as you can see is quite stunning.

 

 

TOMS Classic Red Plaid Shoes - $65

 

 

 

 

 

Love them or hate them, their mission is clear. To provide one pair of shoes for every pair that is purchased. One for One. This particular pair is lined in black fleece and keeps my feet warm even when it's cold outside.

 

 

be wishful.

be thankful.

 

style guy.



 











The Row & Damien Hirst Sold Out? Or Sell Outs?

It goes without saying that artist/designer collaborations are nothing new. For years we have witnessed various collaborations between brands, artists and designers. Think Alexander McQueen and Puma or Murakami and Louis Vuitton. Both great examples of collaborations that worked and worked out well for both brands.

The Olsen twins have had tremendous success with their clothing line, The Row, and when they introduced bags to their collection, the Nile Crocodile rucksack sold out almost immediately despite it's $35,000USD price tag. So when online fashion retailer Just One Eye approached the twins about a collaboration with Damien Hirst they answered with a resounding yes. My response however is a resounding NO.

If the $55,000USD price tag isn't enough to make you throw up a little, then perhaps the fact that Hirst's brilliant (and I use the word loosely) design calls for pills to be featured all over the bag. PILLS - are you kidding me? In a time when we have lost so many talented people to drug and alcohol abuse, you use Pills as a design aesthetic? Maybe Hirst's memory is short. Perhaps the tragedies of legendary jazz musician Chet Baker, comedian Chris Farley or I don't know, Dorothy herself, Judy Garland have escaped him. But surely he might be able to recall the recent long list of stars we continue to mourn: Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Heath Ledger, Brittany Murphy and Amy Winehouse to name just a few.

Upon further research I have learned that some of the proceeds from the sale of this bag will benefit UNICEF, I suppose that explains the $20,000 price increase... Right? Maybe? Oh come on, it's for the children!

Shame on you Damien Hirst. And Shame on you Flare magazine for endorsing this type of foolishness.

be socially responsible.
style guy.

Fourth Quarter Update

For those of you who have been checking back patiently, waiting for me to update, I owe you an apology. A big one. And I really am sorry.

There have been many exciting events and openings over the last couple of months, Simons opened in Edmonton - you may have heard me interviewed on CBC Morning Radio about all of that hype, fashion events have come and gone and somehow Alexander Wang managed to get appointed at Balenciaga...no really...but I digress.

Since I am LONG overdue expect several posts over the next few weeks, in fact, I will give you the preview of what's to come:

Week of December 10th - My Holiday Wish List and Some of my Favourite Things
Week of December 17th - The opening of an exciting new format beauty store in Edmonton!
Week of December 24th - How to Pack for Holiday Travel

And I just might have a few give-a-ways, up my sleeve as well. So check back next week and for those of you who were at the Images International Model Management's Holiday Party last night, it was fabulous to see you all and I look forward to posting profiles of some of the stunning girls that the Images team has been hard at work developing!

be current.
style guy.

Inside the Industry with Frank Muytjens of J.Crew

It's been several weeks now since the excitement and launch of the new J.Crew store in West Edmonton Mall and while most retailers would be just starting to settle into their new digs, J.Crew is already moving forward and expanding their product offering to include menswear!

Starting tomorrow, Tuesday August 28th, fashion savvy men in Edmonton (and of course those who are visiting) will be able to shop the menswear collection at the West Edmonton Mall location. Personally, I am thrilled by this news, as an avid J.Crew enthusiast and shopper.

To give us some insight into the J.Crew men's collection, I interviewed Frank Muytjens, Head of Menswear.

Though originally from Holland, Frank says he has always been drawn to historic Americana, developing a strong appreciation for vintage American work wear. Prior to joining J.Crew Frank spent 8 years as the Design Director for Outerwear for Polo Ralph Lauren.

SG: What can we expect from the men’s fall collection from J.Crew?
FM: I think this is one of our most exciting collections! Expect a lot of textured tweeds in sport coats by Harris Tweed and Abraham Moon, Donegals and Shetlands sweaters and our Ludlow suit in hefty flannel from Fox Brothers. Colours range from an Inky navy and Royal purples to pops of Marigold and Emerald Green.

SG: If you had to use just one word to “sum-up” the collection, what would it be?
FM: Rugged elegance.

SG: When you design, where do you draw your inspiration?
FM: It always changes, but often from great movies, nature, art, architecture, vintage finds and people on the street.

SG: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
FM: Having a cup of coffee early in the morning on the porch upstate and enjoy the silence.

SG: What is your greatest extravagance?
FM: Finding the time to have breakfast at my favorite restaurant.

SG: What is your favorite journey?
FM: My drive upstate to my house. It’s a 2 1/2 hour drive, but as soon as I’m in the car I feel like I’m on vacation.

SG: Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
FM: Amazing.

SG: Which talent would you most like to have?
FM: A singing voice.

SG: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
FM: What we’re doing here at J. Crew comes pretty close.

SG: What is your most treasured possession?
FM: My dog Dutch.

SG: What is your favorite thing to do?
FM: Cooking.  And I Iove getting my hands dirty while gardening.

SG: Who are your favorite writers?
FM: Isabel Allende, Donna Tartt and Redmond O’Hanlon.

SG: Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
FM: Atticus Finch.

SG: What is your motto?
FM: Never look back.

Frank currently resides in Brooklyn, but can often be found at his weekend home in upstate New York. Special thanks to Shauna McMahon and Alexis Coffey for making this interview possible.

Gentleman, ensure you are amongst the first to check out the menswear collection tomorrow at J.Crew in West Edmonton Mall. Ask for Kenny, he is part of the personal shopping team at the store will do a great job helping you narrow down your choices! Tell him Style Guy Jared sent you!

be current.
style guy.

Model Update - JENNA EARLE

It was a year ago that fresh faced, 15 year old, Jenna Earle won the NEXT Face of Edmonton Model Search at West Edmonton Mall. What followed after the search has forever changed her life.

For most new models it takes months, if not longer to gain traction in the industry. It is a long road filled with test shoots, model development sessions, lessons on photo movement and then perhaps some local editorial work or perhaps walking in a local fashion show or two. But for most, that is where the journey ends. Now of course, there are plenty of variations on that journey and many models do make it further, perhaps travelling internationally, or even walking internationally for designers in the large shows in New York, London, Paris or Milan - but again that is not necessarily for everyone and for every model that "makes it" there are hundreds of hopefuls who don't.

In the industry, for the few that do make it, and I mean really MAKE IT, they are known as stars. And they work just as hard as every other model trying to make it, but they have that quality, that thing, that uniqueness that sets them apart. And when a model has that thing, it becomes very clear, very quickly, that they are in fact a STAR.

Jenna Earle has that quality. Jenna is a star.

In the last year Jenna has travelled to Toronto, Paris, Tokyo and New York, she has walked in World Mastercard Fashion Week in Toronto for the Mercedes-Benz Start-Up Program, she has covered magazines, she has shot with world renowned photographers, she has shot an international beauty campaign - and she has kept up her grades, finished all her homework and remained incredibly humble and appreciative about the whole thing.

It is such a pleasure to write about Jenna, not because of all of her accomplishments to date, but because she is the kind of role model that teen girls need. The kind who loves her family, spends time with her friends and remembers where she came from. For Jenna, London may be calling, but her success isn't going to change who she is.

For those of you following Jenna, you can see her in two separate stories this month in FLARE, beauty editorial, shot by Chris Nicholls...

as well as in FLARE's fashion editorial, photographed by Andrew Soule...

and of course, last but certainly not least, keep your eyes open for an upcoming shoot featuring Jenna with another successful Canadian star Heather Marks, shot by photography legend Patrick Demarchelier. Here is a snap shot of Jenna and Patrick from behind the scenes at the shoot!

Congrats Jenna!! Keep up the amazing work!

be  a star.
style guy.