It's not a movie or a music group but a FABULOUS designer line from Paris and it's arriving on our streets exclusively at Holt Renfrew. Zadig & Voltaire is known for its edgy meets luxe image. Think cashmere with angel wings and skulls (hey, Tracey you'd love this!) "The original idea behind Zadig & Voltaire is to create "new luxury", says Thierry Gillier, designer of founder. "From the beginning, Zadig & Votaire has naturally established itself as a "concept-store-designer" ahead of its time. Zadig & Voltaire is a breath of fresh air, a dream-factory, a producer of designs."And fashion runs through Gillier's veins.... More »

Have you ever taken your kids to the symphony? The Toronto Symphony Orchestra caters to families with their amazing Young People's Concerts created to promote music in an entertaining way for the little folks with a bit of education thrown in. As an adult, I must say that it's a great break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's been particularly busy these past few weeks so the thought of an afternoon with my sister and her 6 year old daughter was bliss!The most recent concert, EMILY SAVES THE ORCHESTRA, incorporated the talented actors and dancers from the Platypus... More »

A few days ago I was grocery shopping at my local Loblaw store. I was excited (not just to replenish my tortilla chips and salted caramel ice cream) but I had just downloaded the new PC PLUS app onto my mobile device. I had recently learned about this newly launched rewards program and it caught my attention. I've got 2 growing boys with big appetites and since I shop at Loblaw frequently this would surely be worth my while. I had registered in-store for my rewards card. Easy enough and it's free. But I'm notorious for losing cards. So, the appeal of... More »

Love shopping? I do! Surprised? I love quality, style as well as a good sale now and then. I could hardly contain myself when I found out that luxury goods store, Holt Renfrew, announced the introduction of their new concept store hr2. Once in a while I'll venture to "Holt's" when I need that perfect stellar piece for an event or when I've earned that coveted bag. But hr2 is different. The anticipation was killing me as they had mentioned that this is not going to be like any other shopping experience. So, last night I ventured with some of the city's... More »

There are a few brands in this world that are true icons and classics -  that stay true to their roots. LACOSTE was born on a tennis court in 1933, as a French tennis champion Rene Lacoste replaced the what men wore for the sport. He was the first to introduce the comfort and stylish pique fabric shirt known today as the "polo shirt." The iconic Crocodile is recognized around the world and has become a go-to brand for those in pursuit of timeless elegance and comfort. But what's the story behind the Crocodile? According to the company, the true story... More »

There are a few iconic buildings in Toronto but when you walk through the doors of the 110 year old King Edward Hotel, you can just feel the opulence and imagine all the incredible stories of grandeur (and gasp!...scandal) that have occurred throughout the years. Kind Eddy (as affectionately known to Torontonians) was the city's first luxury hotel. Built in 1903 by George Gooderham, a developer and one of Toronto's wealthiest men - at a cost of $6 million. Room rates back then started form $1.50 a day for a single room without a bath and $7 a day for bedrooms... More »

You know what to do when your child falls off his bike and scrapes his knee. You know what to do when she gets a splinter. But how many of us recognize the early warning signs of mental illness?It's Children's Mental Health Awareness Week (May 5 to 11) and it's a reminder for us to pay special attention to our kids. We're all so, so very busy with work, school work, afterschool programs, and keeping up our homes. But so often we assume that if the kids don't say anything and no notes have come home from the teachers, then... More »

Kelly O'Brien's second pregnancy was uneventful. When her son, Teddy, was born she was told by the doctor that her baby had contracted a virus in-utero. Without any symptoms or signs during pregnancy O'Brien and her family had to face a shocking reality that her son has "extensive brain damage". Teddy would not be able to walk or talk without any assistance. O'Brien began documenting her days taking the challenges and coming to terms with what life has dealt her and her family. We had a chance to interview Kelly O'Brien at the WorldWide Premiere screening of her very personal documentary,... More »

It seems to be baby shower season and if you're looking for a gift that is stylish and thoughtful, consider this beautiful line of blankets. This past Friday, Holt Renfrew officially launched the exclusively designed Armani Junior Baby Blanket to benefit Free The Children. This limited edition blanket is available in store and online with part proceeds going to the charity to help communities in Kenya."Every mother and baby deserves a happy and healthy start, and the basic necessities of health care and clean water," said Alexandra Weston, Holt Renfrew's Director of Brand Strategy. "Holt Renfrew joined with Armani to... More »

This past Monday, Katya and I took a breather from our pile of HOTDOCS Film Festival screenings and was invited to the very fun Kaiser Ball - the big event that celebrated the World Premiere the documentary of FELIX AUSTRIA! Felix Pfeifle himself was in attendance at the invite-only Viennese masked ball along with filmmaker Christine Beebe.  Guests wore everything from ballgowns to ballcaps as the guest of honour, Felix, donned a bright orange wig and danced the night away. Being the sophisticated aristocrat is convincing as Felix mixed and mingled with the crowd. He was as effervescent as you would... More »