Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.
Stacey Bafi-Yeboa is not one to shy away from glamour. Case in point: her Ottawa Fashion Week show this year featured Carnivale-inspired headresses, bringing the audience to their feet, applauding and dancing to the upbeat vibes. The motto of her savvy streetwear line, Kania, is “Be Radiant” — and Stacey brings a radiance to every event she touches down on.
So when we found out she was putting together a new event that aims to bring atmosphere to the traditional designer trade show, we knew we wanted to be a part of it. (Heck, anything that challenges the perception that Ottawa is boring — and gives us a chance to dress up — is something we can get behind.) Find your complimentary Ottawa Magazine Shopping Guide 2011-2012 amongst the other goodies in the swag bag at Flaunt. Flaunt brings shopping, pampering, and dancing, as well as fundraising in support of Ovarian Cancer Canada, under one roof.
Over 20 Canadian designers will be on the scene. With all that dancing and pampering going on, you best check out the full list in advance (bios available on the Flaunt website). We sure did! See below for a few of our favourites.
DJ Magnificent and DJ Select will be spinning — and Stacey promises the party will continue well into the night. Definitely not your typical trade show.
Flaunt. Friday, Nov. 18. 7 p.m. Ottawa Convention Centre. $45 in advance at www.flauntottawa.com, $50 at the door.
Aleksandra Jewellery
Aleksandra Cutler and Lindsay Robinson crossed paths in their early years while studying at Brock University. Their shared passion for art led them to form Aleksandra Jewellery in 2005. Each unique piece is handmade; their work is both classic and fashionable, inspired by nature and art.
Desperately Different
Katya Revenko designs clothing for a woman on the go. The fresh and fierce pieces are daring yet chic, reflecting the wearer’s bold and busy lifestyle. Desperately Different allows women to look and feel beautiful, going from day to night with ease; the 2011 spring and summer collection features designs that combine classic yet edgy looks in shades of white, blue and grey.
Shibang designs
Shibang Designs feature bold and beautiful handmade accessories for the home and your closet. The colour and detail of each design sets Shibang apart from your average accessory. Whether you’re on the hunt for wall art, a clutch, or a new case for your iPhone, Shibang can offer you a unique piece with a personal touch.
Leah Bazian
Don’t feel frumpy just because it’s cold! Leah Bazian can help you look hot even on the coldest day. From cozy wraps of cashmere and cotton, to warm winter coats in bright and bold hues, Leah’s fringes, tassels, and feathers will brighten up the gloomiest of days.
— With files from Melissa Schilz