
Fall weekends in the country call for a Kate Middleton–inspired wardrobe, complete with all the horse-and-hound extras, like these Gap wellington boots ($40, gapcanada.ca). Their waterproof rubber exterior makes puddle jumping a splashy affair.
Archive for Karen Ashbee
By Karen Ashbee | November 3rd, 2011 | 9:00 am

Fall weekends in the country call for a Kate Middleton–inspired wardrobe, complete with all the horse-and-hound extras, like these Gap wellington boots ($40, gapcanada.ca). Their waterproof rubber exterior makes puddle jumping a splashy affair.
By Karen Ashbee | October 27th, 2011 | 9:00 am
Judging from his stunning collection of sterling silver, 18-karat gold and semi-precious gemstone pieces, it’s no surprise that former Calgarian, Toronto-based jewellery designer Dean Davidson (deandavidson.ca) has found fans in editors, stylists and Hollywood A-listers like Jennifer Hudson. His clean, sophisticated style and trademark brushed finish have continued to dazzle customers since his brand’s 2007 launch.
By Karen Ashbee | October 13th, 2011 | 9:00 am

Photography by 3TEN Photo
After launching a website that merged art and fashion, Oak + Fort (10416-82 Ave. Edmonton, 780-758-9199, oakandfort.com) decided to spread its wings, opening a second boutique (the original flagship is located in Vancouver) this past spring. With an emphasis on modern pieces that boast clean lines, the store’s well-edited selection calls for a fashion-forward customer. We like the chiffon capelet blouse ($120); its stand-up collar and exaggerated side panels are perfect for shaking up a tried-and-true suit.
By Karen Ashbee | September 30th, 2011 | 12:00 pm
Karen Ashbee travels to Paris for a history lesson on the Hermès carré.
By Karen Ashbee | September 29th, 2011 | 9:00 am

Cool, statement-making footwear line Fluevog (shown above, from $310) is now available in Calgary (207 Eighth Ave. SW, Calgary, 403-265-1970, fluevog.com). Update your collection this fall with a stylish (and surprisingly comfy) pair of stacked-heel ankle boots. Opt for a bright pop of colour or a rich autumnal hue, and make sure to go hard on the hardware. Studs and chunky buckles are this season’s hottest new embellishment.
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By Karen Ashbee | September 22nd, 2011 | 9:00 am

Need more proof that Alberta has hit its shopping stride? As of this month, Amsterdam-based label Scotch & Soda has opened not one but two stores in the Wild West (West Edmonton Mall, 8882 170 St., Edmonton, 780-666-1072; Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, 403-770-7942; scotch-soda.com). This eclectic brand’s specialty is original, fashion-forward garb. Known for its classic silhouettes and pared-down colour palette, Scotch & Soda’s must-have fall looks include harem-style wool trousers, photo-print tees and puff-shoulder cropped blazers.
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By Karen Ashbee | September 15th, 2011 | 9:00 am

Photography by Carlo Mendoza
Fans of Skoah (shown above, from $25), the popular Vancouver-based skin-care company and spa, will be pleased to know that it has opened a second Calgary location (116 10th St. NW, Calgary, 403-264-0203, skoah.com). Facials are this spa’s stock-in-trade; its Quickie Facial is the ultimate pick-me-up. Get your glow on with this skin-care workout, which includes a deep cleanse, exfoliation, skin analysis and hydrating massage. Priced at only $35, it’ll be hard not to indulge every month.
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By Karen Ashbee | August 25th, 2011 | 9:00 am

Studio Intent Boutique + Gallery. Photography by David R. Politi.
Although we were sad to see the Shisomiso Boutique & Gallery close, the opening of Studio Intent Boutique + Gallery (100 7th Ave. SW, Suite 105, Calgary, 403-226-4211, studiointent.ca) in its former space has given us cause to celebrate. This hip little emporium features a motherlode of Canadian talent, such as vintage-inspired pendants from Calgary’s Colleen Cyca and structured dresses from Montreal’s Eve Gravel. Supercute dresses and tunics in a monochromatic palette from Valérie Dumaine are perfect picks for evenings out. And Vancouver-based Erin Templeton’s roomy leather bags fit right in among the store’s other great Canadian collections.