Ben Sherman

While I was in Toronto, I called into London to talk to Mark Maidment, Creative Director of Ben Sherman, to discuss the brand, Savile Row, and the company's debut in the Canadian marketplace, with the opening of their first stand-alone store along Queen Street in Toronto. He was a really laid-back and great man to interview, easily one of the most comfortable and casual interviews that I have ever conducted. You could tell that the he was very passionate about the brand that he heads, which is evident in the company's new direction and product offerings! Featured in the September issue of SHARP magazine, you can read a small preview inside the issue (out on stands now!), or read the interview in its entirety below! Enjoy :)

Vintage Hunters

Craving some good vintage finds, my friends and I decided to take a lovely little stroll down Kensington market and Queen Street West on a sunny saturday afternoon. Vintage shopping can be a really interesting experience. You honestly don't ever know what to expect, it's very hit or miss. But every once in a while, you'll find a gem amidst a pile of junk that'll be the exact piece you were looking for. And the fact that it's vintage, that it's pre-worn, means that there is a story behind that piece, a history - I like that.

RECAP (Pt.I): ABSOLUTely on TOP(shop)

So, I thought I would give you all a quick recap on the festivities that have been going on in this wonderful city. I was invited to a casual event for ABSOLUT vodka's launch of their newest drink, Orient Apple, at Brassaii restaurant (which, can I say, is just an absolutely beautiful venue!) My friend, Viktoria (who I brought as my guest), and I were treated to a 3-course meal, with each dish thoughtfully paired with a drink using ABSOLUT's Orient Apple as the foundation ingredient. Suffice to say, it was a wonderful way to introduce the company's new product. You could tell that a lot of thought was put into the event, as the choice of venue (stunning), the food, and the pairings were done in a very strategic and effective way! Great job ABSOLUT! 

the Hudson's Bay Company

Since my move to Toronto, i've been fascinated by the re-branding that has occurred with the Canadian heritage brand, Hudson's Bay Company. While the department store still very much remains on a mediocre and shoddy level of quality and aesthetic back where i'm from (Alberta), the same cannot be said for the stores here in Toronto. In fact, they're nothing short of spectacular!

"Alexander McQueen, et ou"

One of the many great things about living in this city is the sheer amount of fashionable diversity there is (actually, diversity in general!) From the department stores right down to the streets, the selection is enough to make any wallet tremble in fear. And let's not even get started on the designer trunk shows and sample sales. If you know what's what, you'll probably be able to at least find one or the other (or both) every week!