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Sunday, July 31, 2011

Holly: No Rules


When it comes to style, Holly doesn't follow any rules.  She mixes a little vintage with current trends -- whatever her heart desires.

Friday, July 29, 2011

Katherine: Pretty in Pink


Katherine used to be a ballet dancer and likes wearing breezy pink and white summer dresses.  She also loves accessorizing with brown coloured bags, belts and shoes, which she often buys at her favourite store, Vintage 69.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Vera: Ray of Light


Vera lit up Yorkville Avenue in her bright yellow-T...



...and cool Dsquared shoes.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Atanga: In Front & Behind the Camera

  

It's always a pleasure to meet a fellow street photographer.

We were driving up McCaul when Atanga caught our attention.  Even though I had already retired my camera for the day, I was particularly taken by his cool preppy style and the image of him texting on his sleek Linus bike.  Needless to say, I reached into my camera bag one last time for the day.

Atanga's blog is called Wanton, which celebrates Toronto's unique spaces and colours in retro-fashion.  I'll be checking it out frequently.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Fawning Over Kasha


A lot of the people I photograph are often the result of a double-take.  And if I double-take someone, I have to photograph them.  On this day, I passed by Fawn Boutique and had such a moment with Kasha - the proprietor of the eclectic ladies' fashion store.

With her slick hair-do, unique look and breathtaking style, she compelled me to boldly enter her shop to ask for a photograph.

Fortunately for me, she graciously agreed.

Kasha is wearing a hand-painted leather cuff by Lauren Manoogian, Ian R.N. detailed-shoulder pegboard tank, Kaylee Tankus black high-waisted pants and Swedish Hasbeens clogs.

And fortunately for you, these labels may be purchased from her cool boutique.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Angel Reda Dances Toe to Toe with Hugh Jackman

Before sharpening his claws for another Wolverine movie, Hugh Jackman touched down in Toronto to perform his elaborate stage show, Hugh Jackman In Concert, for a limited engagement.

Last night, we attended the event and were charmed by the charismatic and multi-talented star, who carried the show brilliantly with the help of his big band and back-up singers/dancers: Merle Dandridge and Angel Reda.

Prior to attending the show, we were fortunate to have a TorontoVerve moment with Angel.  The LA-based performer graciously shared her thoughts about Hugh, performing and, of course, fashion.


TorontoVerve: What can theatre audiences expect from the show?

Angel Reda: The best way to describe it is 'expect the unexpected'.  The show is never the same each night because Hugh has this amazing spontaneity.

TV: How did you first get involved in the production?

AR: I got a phone call from casting in L.A.  They said they were looking for 'me' (laugh).  I quickly got on a plane for rehearsal and not long after, we opened in San Francisco.  The show was literally put together that quickly.

TV: So tell us what your first meeting was like with Hugh.

AR: He walked into rehearsal and he couldn't be nicer.  He was genuine...a real guy's guy.  He's not like any star I ever met.  I knew he performed in The Boy from OZ, but I had no idea how much he loved theatre and this show clearly demonstrates that.


TV: What's it like to sing back up for the famous film actor?

AR: It's absolutely amazing! I feel very blessed to be a part of the project.  Often what happens in theatre, people are thrown together and you don't know what you're going to get, but from top to bottom, everyone has been so great.  Despite the show being his baby, Hugh graciously shares a bit of the spotlight with Merle and me.  He introduces us as Broadway stars and let's us do our thing.  We also back him in whatever he needs throughout the evening.

TV: The show first debuted in San Francisco and now it's in Toronto until Sunday.   Can you tell us about the show's future....is Broadway on the horizon?

AR: Right now Hugh is busy with many film projects so rumours aside -- no one really knows the future of the show.


TV: Since this is a street style blog, I'm obligated to ask: what is your sense of style?

AR: Well, I obviously love boots...even in the heat of summer.  My night-wear is sexy but classy and I usually pull out a three-quarter length skirt.  My day-wear is funky and alternative, and I'm always showing some leg (laughs).  When I was a teenager, my mom would often encourage a classy black dress and then my father would interject with "you look like a million bucks."  Today, my closet is basically black with a few colours thrown in.  So I'm guessing I took what they said to heart. (laughs).

TV: Did you do any shopping while you were in the city?  If so, what did you buy and where?

AR: Well, I bought these boots (pictured below) at B2.  I wish Browns were in the States.  I just love them.  I'm visiting the Distillery tomorrow - so I plan to pick up some jewellery...something sentimental.  Here's wishing the exchange rate was better right now!


TV: Do you ever have any input on what to wear on stage?

AR: Anna Bingemann, our costume designer, was brought in for our Toronto run.  We were first outfitted in a spicy sequin number for the San Francisco shows.  Anna really wanted us to feel comfortable but great in our clothes.  For my track, I do a bit of dancing so being able to move and kick my legs was a big deal.  She dressed me in a Dolce and Gabbana full skirt that certainly does the trick.  Why not have sexy and sleek with a complete range of movement?  It's quite a treat.

TV: So what's next for you personally and professionally?

AR: I have a one-woman show that I'm still trying to piece together myself.  And I'm going back to L.A. to hunt for more film and TV work and, of course, work on my own recording, which could be associated with my future one-woman show.  I really want it to be a throwback perhaps in the likeness of Michael Buble.  He has definitely rocked the charts, bringing that Sinatra savoir-faire back to life.  There aren't many women who do the big band thing like him -- I simply adore it.  I'm definitely on a mission when I get back home.

TV: Can you tell us about your future one-woman show?

AR: Well, it's still in the early stages so I can't say much about it, but it's a tribute to an iconic starlet who's a huge inspiration for me.



Hugh Jackman In Concert closes tomorrow after its afternoon performance.

Doris Cozies Up with Hugh Jackman


When Doris drove from Philadelphia to Toronto to catch Hugh Jackman In Concert for her 80th birthday, little did she realize that she'd catch the film actor's eye.

Jackman jumped from stage for a little repartee with her and was instantly smitten after learning that he was the object of her birthday wish.  The big-hearted actor then spiced up her evening by inviting her to swing her hips with his during one of his show tunes and she didn't hesitate to oblige.

Later, after donning a colourful sequin blouse as his stage idol Peter Allen, Jackman teased her by seductively gyrating his body like a seasoned Chippendale's dancer.  And if that wasn't enough for Doris to write home about, he invited her backstage for more one-on-one time.

We had a great time at last night's show, but I doubt that it will ever compare to Doris' night.

Monday, July 11, 2011

Lauren: 21st Century Mod


Lauren borrowed her chic 80's retro style from an unknown reality-TV star.

Who said reality-TV serves no good purpose?


So I held out as long as I could about not watermarking my photos.  I felt it intruded on the artistry of the photos (I know, sounds pretentious), but after seeing my photos unexpectedly turn up on blogs without crediting moi or TorontoVerve, I relented.

How do you feel about watermarks on photos?

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Lavender & Lauren: Day at the Lavender Festival


Today we caught the last day of the Lavender Festival at the Scott's Barn Cultural Centre in Grafton.

Not only did we enjoy the beautiful sights and smells of the lavender field, we also indulged in the delectable taste of the lavender burgers (beef fused with lavender), lemonade and ice cream.

If you missed it, I highly recommend that you bookmark the official website for next year's edition.


It's worth the drive to Grafton!

Thomas & Laura: Date Night in Yorkville


Saturday, July 9, 2011

Alexandra: Dinner in a Tutu


Alexandra wore this fetching tutu for dinner and a night at the ballet with her mother.