Archive for December, 2009

We took a few minutes out of our hectic day to chat with Shopgirls Artist Circle member and clothing designer Taessa Chorny, who creates a fabulous mix of casual and dressy pieces, mostly with vintage fabrics.

What kinds of materials do you use?
This season I have been working with graphic vintage prints, reclaimed leather, and have fallen in love with velvet and velour – it’s so cozy.

What makes your work unique?
My dresses are simple, comfortable, and each one is one of a kind, so no other girl will be wearing the same dress.

Who or what are your influences?
I design for myself and my girlfriends – what we would like to wear on a night out. If my best friend doesn’t want to wear it, it doesn’t make the cut.

What is your current creative obsession?
A touch of metal studs on every piece I design and make – giving each piece a harder edge.

Who’s your favourite Canadian artist or designer?
I love Erin Kleinberg t-shirts, Smythe jackets, and Jenny Bird jewellery.

…Recycled fur accessories!

Shopgirls is so thrilled to announce the arrival of Rachel F from Montreal! This fabulous winter collection consists of all recycled fur and leather! Super warm, eco-friendly and ultra-stylish. We are LOVING these pieces and they are going fast! Here is a sampling, but you’ll have to come on into the shop to feel them up and try them on!

Hey! Shopgirls has had a wonderful two years of meeting and friending the fabulous fashion journalists in Toronto and across Canada, and Karen Hawthorne of the National Post is no exception! I had a great time helping her find the perfect jeans, and she writes about them here. Check it out!

I’m REALLY good at buying gifts for women. Men… they stump me, but women are easy! I think the main reason I’m good at gift buying is because I have fun with it! I like searching the stores and being creative; picturing the other person using or wearing the gift I buy. I like to get into each of their heads and figure out what they would like and not like.

To help you get into the head of the women you need to buy for, I’ve chosen three of my close friends to profile and selected their perfect Shopgirls’ gift.

Kara: Kara is a feminine woman who loves all things girly! Anything with a frill, lace, or inspired florals will be right up Kara’s alley. My first gift pick for Kara is this petal-like hat from Petit Beret. She can wear it in her hair as a beautiful hat or pin it to a sweater to add a feminine detail to any outfit.




Rachel: Rachel is a practical woman who enjoys clothing with simple classic lines. The three-in-one cream cardigan by Stacey Zhang will appeal to Rachel’s practical nature – she can wear one sweater three different ways – and suits her beautiful warm colouring.

Kate: Kate = Kitsch. Kate is a creative soul who has a love for any design that includes woodland creatures. This pillow by Cochon Noir with the screened on bird is a perfect throw pillow for Kate’s house. As a gift, Kate will appreciate the thought put into finding something so creatively perfect for her!

Need some help choosing gifts for others or yourself, drop by Shopgirls to see me from 1-9pm on Thursday December 10th – trust me, I can help! To guarantee one-on-one attention, book a private 30-minute session with me. Call the shop or get in touch with me directly: 416-262-4116.

… Ruffles! They’re not just for pirates anymore!

I personally am a huge fan of this ultra feminine yet classic detail that gives any outfit an added touch of flair. Some may feel they’re over-the-top but I beg to differ, especially when you see the new Stacey Zhang Ruffle Sweater. This piece not only flatters all shapes and sizes, but the boiled wool keeps you warm and cozy all winter long. (Available in Lilac or Black, $190).

Along this same wavy line, I also love Montreal’s Atelier Mouvement scarves. Say goodbye to boring with one of these unique pieces of art. Constructed with dozens of individual strips of fabric sewn together, these little gems create such a glamorous impact on their own. Paired with a simple black turtleneck or even your winter coat, you can bring drama to any outfit in your closet AND they can double up as a shawl for any cocktail dress, keeping you warm and stylish all night long. (Available in many colours, and starting at $60).