EVENTS: PACKWOOD GRAND 2016

In just 4 days Packwood Grand will take over the Century Downs Racetrack & Casino and the most stylish Calgarians will flock in droves to partake in an afternoon filled with races, fashion, mingling and a general livery!

The Social Button is hosting the afternoon which promises to mix the 'true sense of old world leisure and sophistication'. 

Styleista is on the Style Stakes panel alongside The Style Guys and pervious winner, Gwendolyn Richards to pick the best dressed male and female. Stay alert during the event on details of how to enter yourself or your stylish date/friend!

The main questions we get asked is what to what to wear and wear to shop! So we have given you all the necessary deets to get yourself geared up for the event. 

Last year we style a shoot for Avenue Magazine, read the full post here

The main details for the ladies are big hats and fascinators. This year I am getting a custom made fascinator made by a local designer, Holly Allen, who creates out of the Smithbilt Hat Co in Inglewood.

Prototype of my custom fascinator

When thinking of where to get inspo the first place to look is events such as the Kentucky Derby. Below are some celeb style shots which show the guys getting to be the peacocks and the ladies keeping it classy yet contemporary.

Places to shop: Menswear

#1 Brooks Borthers

- Harry Rosen

- Zara

- Club Monaco

- Gentleman Proper

- Browns Shoes

Places to shop: Womenswear

#1 BCBG

- Nordstrom

- Top Shop

- Holts

- Nine West (stacked heels or wedges for the grass)

Best Dressed 2015

Nathaniel and Ania B

Gallery from Packwood Grand 2015

TICKETS: Link

See you all in the infield! 

XO, Phaedra

DIARY: COACHELLA 2016 - PT. 3 of 3

Final instalment of our Coachella diary concludes with some pics of our outfits for days 2 & 3, some best dressed festival goers and some snaps we took along the way.

On Phaedra: Love of Lemons bralet from APT22, silver necklace from Coutu Kitsch, horn necklace from WYSH Collective, boots from Ron White

On Brenna: G&R men's t-shirt from The Bay, lace slip & sandals from Nordstrom

Ran into this beauty, Ania B

Some of our fav festival fashion!

Day 2 and 3 was filled with snapping beautiful people in their festival finery, snapping for Flare Magazine's Snapchat and chilling in the VIP Rose Garden.

Back chain from Coutu Kitsch

Music side note: G&R was A-mazing! Axle looked a little worst for wear, let's just say he doesn't age like a fine wine (ahem, George Clooney) but his voice was on point and Slash killed it!

On Phaedra: Men's t-shirt from Urban Outfitters, Chanel hip pack, Rag & Bone booties

On Brenna: Shorts from Nordstrom, top from APT22, necklace from Coutu Kitsch, booties from DSW

Day 3 we kept it a bit more casual, me in a men's t-shirt (what else is new) B in her buns!

Just past magic hour and pre Clavin Harris - with surprise guest Rihanna!

Some shots from along the way....

Necklace from Coutu Kitsch

On Phaedra: Dress from UO

On Brenna: Fringe vest from APT22

We made it out alive, day 4 means morning mimosas, a big brunch and a direct flight home! 

Once again we had the best time, thank you Coachella for the weekend of wonderlust!

XO, Phae

EVENTS: #BITB - Pretty Up Your Summer Wardrobe

We are partnering with Adorn Boutique to bring the pretty to south Calgary! This will be our second event hosted at Starbelly Open Kitchen + Grill in the SE. We had overwhelming response from the first one that we decided to host it again for all you fabulous ladies who reside in the SE/SW!

On site styling expertise will be provided by Styleista's own, Kimberly French, paired with Adorn Boutique which is located in Inglewood, Calgary, you can rest assured to have feminine, flattering and fabulous clothing to give your summer wardrobe a boost!

Date: Wednesday, June 1 @ 7:30pm

Tickets: $35.00 (includes wine + hors d' oeuvres)

We will be donating a portion of all tickets sales to the Red Cross in support of the Fort McMurray Relief Fund.

To purchase tickets please visit our Events page. 

DIARY: COACHELLA 2016 - PART 2 OF 3

Once we arrived in Palm Springs we headed directly to one of our favourite starting spots, Tommy Bahama's on El Paseo. You may think it sounds like a hang out for silver hairs (no disrespect intended) but it has the best patio, salads and cocktails to get us into vacation mode.

(L-R) Carmen, Brad, Brenna, Phaedra, Marina & Michelle

This year we made it more of a group trip with 3 other gfs and once very patient husband who actually ended up being forced to be our part time photographer, thanks Brad! So we shook off the travel stiffness, sipped our various bevvies and relaxed into the desert heat. 

From there we headed to our friends gorgeous home, in La Quinta and got settled by the pool for the later part of the day. We then found out our fellow YYC friend Ania B and her hubby, Tyler were also in town so we made plans to meet up with them. After spending at least an hour trying to figure out what, if anything in the greater Coachella Valley was open, we found out pretty much only one place was, The Nest. Think Calgary's The Trop  but in the desert. Lol! It's a bit cheesy and super random but they were open so we went. Added bonus was that we ended up sitting right next to the Weeknd and Bella Hadid.

Day 1 - Festival #OOTD: APT 22, Wysh Collective, and some of our own.

Prior to heading to the festival we made Brad take pics of us haha!

#BTS - Brad looking all pro cameraman

Being responsible individuals we parked the SUV and took the shuttles which was the first time we had done this and surprisingly it was a very seamless process. Arriving at the festival and going through VIP was not however but we did get some good C list reality TV star-spotting in while waiting...we see you RKOBH cast!

We also had the pleasure of taking of Flare Magazine's Snapchat for the entire weekend! 

Once we finally were in we spent most of our time in the VIP area because you have the best view of the main stage. Plus there was just tons of celeb spotting that night, more then the other two for sure. Lenny Kravitz photobombed us, well maybe we made that happen ;)

Oh hey!

Recreating our first Coachella pic (2015)

Free People Dress (APT22), WYSH Collective Wrap Chain, Ray Ban Sunglasses

APT22 Top, UO Bra, Aldo Sunglasses

To sum up day 1, we would say the music was epic; M83, Ellie Goulding, LCD and Purity Ring. The celeb spotting was on lock; Lenny, Jude Law, Chanel Iman, Scott Disick, Tyson Beckford. And our crew was the bomb! 

Day 2 + 3: To be continued...

XO, Phae

DIARY: Coachella 2016 - Part 1 of 3

For the second glorious year, Brenna and I set out to wanderlust in the California desert.

Prior to actually boarding our flights to Palm Springs we needed to visit some of our favourite spots in Calgary to get properly primed for our adventures.

One week prior to take off we visited XO Treatment Room where our skin guru and owner, Annie Graham gave us access to a brand new treatment called the Infusion Facial where she created micro channels to infuse a vitamin rich, sterile serum followed by a hyaloronic acid + collagen mask. There is no downtime and my skin felt fresh and looked oh so dewy! Post Coachella, I'll be back for an IPL to erase the UV pigmentation from being a sun goddess all weekend. Ps. If you book an appointment, mention 'Styleista' for a little deal ;)

After that we popped into the boho destination boutique, APT 22 in Aspen. We chose some super cute items to mix and match with our outfits. We love the attainable price points and versatility of the items Kim Stern picks out on her LA and Bali buying trips.

Next was the pre-party cleanse regime from CRU Juice. Ok, seriously this cleanse is so easy to do it barely feels like you are on one. We chose the 3-day Easy option ($190) which includes 6 juices/day ranging from green - root - citrus juices. It's delicious, not to mention slimming.

With a stop over at the Livery in Inglewood we did a major stock up of Coutu Kitsch which is a go-to for affordable, custom designed jewelry curated by Dorian Kitsch. We each own multiple rings, necklaces and earrings that we love to swap between us, layer and use as statement pieces. We both will basically never leave the house without a piece of Coutu Kitsch on!  

Intermixed into our schedules prior to leaving we hit up Union Athletica for a couple of their hybrid classes. One favourite being the F'AB Ride which is 30 min spin + 20 min abdominals. It's the best for people who love spin but not the full 50-60 min. 

We also stopped by our friend, Kristina Regehr's private studio where she makes WYSH Collective, to select a couple handmade vintage pieces to compliment our primary looks. Kristina signature aesthetic combines raw and natural stones with vintage chains to create unique one of a kind pieces. 

Finally, there is just no way that we could go to Coachella with our 'fair' skin, we must arrive looking like bronzed babes. So the only place we go to is Sundrops in Kensington. They are the best faux tanning salon in YYC. They provide a safe tan by using rich botanical foundations which keep you moisturized and glowing for any event or vacation you have in your calendar. The plus side is the tan is instant and you get a free touch up with select services!

We were set! Skin, clothing, accessories, and health were all on lock an off we went....

...story to be continued...

XO, Phae

Sunday School with Styleista + Nordstrom YYC

We have partnered with Nordstrom to do a denim styling work shop.

Spots are limited, for tickets please click here.

Thanks!

Flare.com Feature: Coachella Musts ~ Where to stay, eat, hang, shop and what to wear

We were recently asked by FLARE.com Magazine how Styleista does Coachella and this is what we said - http://www.flare.com/culture/how-to-slay-at-coachella-what-to-eat-sip-and-wear/

Read on for a few more of our favourites.

STAY: The Colony Palm Hotel

A hidden gem, this Spanish hacienda-style boutique hotel with a vintage feel. Poolside plants seclude the French Riviera-chic cabanas at the serene pool and the Purple Palm Restaurant and Bar has a great scene with a Morocco meets old Hollywood feel. Truly a desert oasis!

BRONZE: Spraytanica

If you are coming from Canada, like us, your gonna want some fresh color when you get there! We love Nicole at Spraytanica. She has a room at a Shear Insanity Salon in Catherdral City perfectly situated half way between Palm Springs and Indio. Or better yet she’s mobile and can come to you! Her products are all natural, parabin free, and not tested on animals. The color is customized, last 5 – 7 days and fades evenly. Call Nicole at 310.228.8624 and get your glow on!

SPEND A DAY: El Paseo

The famous El Paseo Shopping District is the Rodeo Drive of the desert. Featuring a mile of over 300 shops, art galleries, jewelry stores and restaurants lined with beautiful manicured flower beds. Our perfect day here would be to grab brunch at Wilma & Frieda in the Gardens and then stroll the stripes locally owned boutiques like Elizabeth & Prince and Blonde Boutique, a patio cocktail at Tommy Bahamas, followed by a peek into some of the fabulous art galleries. A blow out at one of the many salons and then dinner + drinks at Mastros. 

RELAX: The Well Spa at Miramonte Resort

The desert waters derived from a natural well hundreds of years ago, continue to revitalize today at this award-winning spa. It’s intimate Tuscan environment features 13 treatment rooms and a co-ed courtyard with private salt water pool. Check out the spa parties as well!

WHAT TO WEAR: be sure to read the FLARE post we wrote for all of our must haves for your festival look! 

SKINCARE: Beyond Botox ~ Courtesy of the XO Treatment Room

I’ll be the first to admit that I am skin lazy. 

At certain points in my life, I’ve taken an interest in my skin.  I’ve seen a dermatologist, been advised on a specific regime that I loosely followed and ended up somewhat satisfied with the results. 

However, nothing stays the same.  Aging & climate changes are constant obstacles for me & my skin care, and Calgary has proved to be the biggest one yet; especially with dry sensitive skin.  So after a year and half of trying to figure it out on my own, it was time to see the professionals at XO Treatment Room.

I scheduled my appointment for the first day after the spring break, because lets be honest, while my main objective is skin deep, there is something about being pampered that is just good for the soul.

Located in the Beltline, which is just south of Calgary’s downtown, XO Treatment Room is easily accessible.  Even on a busy weekday morning, parking was a cinch.

As I entered XO Treatment Room, I quickly become aware of two things, an amazing aroma and a woman greeting me with absolutely flawless skin that I’m informed is makeup free.  This happens to be Annie Graham, owner of XO Treatment Room.  Annie welcomes me and as we discuss my dermatological concerns, I am completely at ease with her and my surroundings, which is unlike any medical spa I’ve been to.

My treatment for today is the Beyond Botox facial which is specifically designed to reverse the signs of aging and help reduce lines, wrinkles, and age spots and will be administered by a medical aesthetician, Kaila.  We enter a serene treatment room and as Kaila explains my procedure, she also inquires about any additional skin concerns and easily addresses them with exceptional know-how.  I can tell I am in good hands!

As facials go, this is like nothing I have ever experienced.  There is no pulling, peeling or extracting.  The focus is on enhancing the quality of your skin through pressure points, increased blood circulation and luxe products specifically for hydration.  My facial had 11 plus steps, but the one I enjoyed the most was a mild chemical peel and during this time, I received a full arm & hand massage with organic apricot oil from Italy.  It was during this process that everything just stopped.  All my thoughts, “Have-to’s” and even my mental notes for this blog… it all just came to a rare and much needed stop - it was amazing!

Unfortunately, all good things must end.  Once Kaila was done administering my Beyond Botox Facial, I was reminded of what my skin used to feel like, before my need to hide it with makeup.  It was as though years of exposure had been taken away and I was left with soft, supple, hydrated skin.  We sat down and discussed a realistic regime that works with my lifestyle and includes Canadian product B.Kamins.  I’m obsessed with their Lifting Serum, which in Calgary, is exclusive to XO.

Just as I began to leave with my new found glow, I was introduced to world-renowned Cosmetic Physician, Dr. Grondin, who performs all of XO’s injectables.  Not only is he brilliant at his craft, and just like Annie, his demeanor is infectious.   That’s what sets XO Treatment Room apart, the knowledge and disposition of the staff is parallel and cohesive to the care and attention they give you.

It’s been over 36 hours since my experience at XO Treatment Room and as someone who is result driven - I’m thrilled.  And more so, have finally been given the resources required to achieve and maintain healthy looking skin.

PS. Check out their Instagram cause it will make you giggle! 

XO, Kimberly

FASHION: #WORKSTYLEYYC with Naka Photography

Kevin from Naka Photography has created a super smart concept that is gaining momentum in the Calgary market called WorkStyleYYC. They describe their services this way...

Authentic, off-beat and creative headshots that go way beyond staged portraits.

Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and other social media platforms are storming the workplace. As a result, our personal and professional lives are blending together more and more. Suddenly, we all have a 'Personal Brand'. No longer just a buzz word, Personal Branding is all about curating your online image, which helps you stick out from the pack. First impressions count for a lot and why not have your online presence to speak to the real you, rather than a staged corporate version.

This genuine approach will help attract like-minded clients, create personal connections and grow your business. Whether you're a musician, graphic designer, carpenter, architect, wedding planner, etc... Personal Branding is a key part of your future!

We are excited to partner with WorkStyleYYC to offer our services to prepare you, your co-worker or colleagues to look the best you can look in front of the lens!

For more details please contact http://www.workstyleyyc.com/booking/ and mention Styleista for a package promo.

XO, Team Styleista

Boho Vibes

CONTEST: Happy Hour @ Double Zero

We have partnered with Double Zero to get you all happy, happy during their super fabulous $5 Happy Hour! 

Some of our favourite items include the calamari, meatballs and beet salad! 

The details are easy, simply follow both Double Zero and Styleista on Instagram and like and comment on the images relating to the contest. We will announce the winner on Friday, Feb 19 by 5pm! 

XO, Team Styleista

Boutique in the Burbs

BOUTIQUE IN THE BURBS

Photo Credit: Tyler Stalman

Styleista is excited to partner with APT 22 + Starbelly to bring one of Calgary’s hottest boutiques to the burbs!

TICKETS: $40 (includes h’orderves + 2 drinks)

WHEN: Thursday, February 18, 2016

TIME: 8pm

WHERE: Starbelly Restaurant - 19489 Seton Cr SE

APT22 is a fresh and stylish women’s clothing boutique located in Aspen. The owner, Kim Stern, sources clothing and jewelry from global style destinations such as Bali, Los Angeles as well as local designers right here in Calgary. Styleista will be on site with stylist, Kimberly French, on hand to give outfit and wardrobe tips at Starbelly, which is an chic open kitchen and grill located in the South East. This can be a fun night out for you and your girlfriends, moms, sisters and/or daughters.

For more information please contact us: info@styleista.ca

Instagram + Twitter: @styleista_ca

Facebook: Styleista

Pinterest: StyleistaGroup

XO, Team Styleista

PROMO: Valentines Day Pamper Package

Guys, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, there is absolutely no time to waste planning that special day for your significant other or perhaps that person you are trying to impress for the first time.

We want to take the pressure off and curate a perfect package to pamper your sweetheart. We will plan a personal shopping session to style her with a date night outfit to enjoy dinner with you, she can then choose from a selection of Wysh jewelry and finish the day with a customized facial from XO Treatment Room.

Offer includes:

Customized Styleista Gift Certificate

Assistance for Dinner Reservations

10% off Personal Shopping (or session of choice)

WYSH Jewelry Selection

XO and Go Facial + Collagen Masks

- Please inquire regarding Men's Vday Package - 

Pamper Package w/ earrings $500

Natural Solar Quartz Flowers w/ 24k gold electroplated edging hung from 14k gold filled earring threads

Pamper Package w/ Necklace $425

Rose Quartz Crystal Point on 14k gold filled ball 32" chain

For booking information please contact us by email: info@styleista.ca or phone: 403-978-0050

~ Offer expires February 14, 2016 ~

XO, Team Styleista

FASHION: HOW TO WEAR A MANS SHIRT AS A DRESS

I stumbled upon the mens department in H&M and thanks to the Beibs they have started making mens shirts in extra long. I found a super cute sweatshirt with a graphic text on the back, long t-shirts with a shirt tail bottom and short sleeve t's with zippers up the side and down the centre back. If styled right they could be mistaken as Helmut Lang, Rick Owens or Rag & Bone.

Tips: 

- Make sure the length is at least at the bottom of your finger tips

- I'm generally a women's size 2-4 so I bought size men's size M

- Pair with OTK boots 

- Add a lace skirt that peeks out the bottom

- Pair with a chunky heeled bootie

- Add sheer tights/nylons

H&M White Zip T-shirt: LINK

H&M Grey Shirt-tail T-shirt: LINK

XO, Phaedra

TRAVEL: Southern Gulf Islands - NYT Best Places to Go 2016

I was born and raised on the west coast of British Columbia. Born in Vancouver and raised on Bowen Island and then Salt Spring Island. I would not trade that upbringing for anything in the world, it has helped shape who I am deep down. There is something about being immersed in an environment that surrounds you with the ocean, wilderness, wildlife and a warm community of people that will always be a part of who I am. 

The west coast is wild, unpredictable and breathtakingly beautiful. The unpredictability lends to the mystic of this rugged coastal region where you can find yourself enjoying a summer-like October day on a tiny beach basking in the sun to misty morning runs that lead you past dew laden farm fields, unique homes and eventually you will end up at the ocean again. You can take a boat out and drop a line, hopefully catch a lingcod or pull a friends’ crab trap and plan a fresh seafood hot pot paired with a local bottle of wine. Nothing beats this! It all comes back to the ocean. Being raised with it as a constant in my life makes me realize I can’t live without it. It’s like a soul mate in a way, if that even makes any sense.

What prompted all this west coast love is the recent article by the New York Times – 52 Places to Go in 2016 – which the Southern Gulf Islands was listed! I have to give them props on their description of my beloved home:

“Always blessed with natural beauty, Vancouver has successfully recast itself in recent years as a luxury destination. But as the Canadian city goes upscale, travelers and locals seeking simpler Pacific Northwest charms are increasingly venturing just offshore, to the Southern Gulf Islands. A short ferry ride (as little as an hour) leads to a maze of Pacific islands dotted with small seaside villages, where summers can feel almost Mediterranean. Rocky coast and pebble beaches give way to rolling pastures and forested peaks. Winding roads lead from farms and wineries to cheeseries, breweries and artists’ studios. Each of the nearly dozen major islands has its own character and contrarian island culture, but all offer secluded coves and trails to explore, and abundant wildlife, from eagles to orcas. Restaurants — including tiny Pilgrimme, cited as one of Canada’s best — punch well above their weight, while one-off accommodations range from renovated airstreams to Airbnb finds and small, family-run lodges.” - Remy Scalza

The more I miss it the more I realize that I need it and that I will once again live there, mark my words.

Xo, Phaedra

FASHION: Spring & Summer 2016 Runway Trends

Once again it is time to look to the runway collections and designers that presented notable themes for S/S 2016. With the help of Vogue.com we have grouped together our favourites.

Boudoir: Satin & Lace

Céline

Designers doing this trend:

Céline

Givenchy

Alexander Wang

Vintage Revival: Luxe + Thrift Store

Gucci

Designers doing this trend:

Gucci

Dries Van Noten

Christopher Kane

Romance Redux: 1800s modern femininity

Etro

Designers doing this trend:

Oscar de la Renta

Erdem

Alexander McQueen

All That Glitters: Sequins and appliqué 

Anthony Vaccerello

Designers doing this trend:

Marni

Pucci

Paco Rabanne

Details:

Off the Shoulder

Boss - Off the shoulder

Crazy denim

Off White - Denim

Latin influences (ruffles)

Michael Kors

Additional Trend Details:

Tie Dye

Silver Metallics

Sporty (sweatshirts as dresses)

Exaggerated arms/shoulders

Stripes in all directions

Happy Shopping Styleistas...or at least this is inspiration until the weather turn warm here!

XO, Phaedra