Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.

Ah, swimwear: an often tiny piece of material, worn for such a brief time, that still manages to generate huge interest year-round. (Just ask any gym bunny what motivates those countless crunches.) In the fashion world, it’s a hot commodity, especially given the fact that such a small percentage of the population can truly pull it off.

Here in land-locked Ottawa, designer Amber Watkins is raising eyebrows with her retro one- and two-piece suits.

In advance of a fashion show on Tuesday, July 31, featuring Amber Watkins swimsuits and pool wear, SHOP TALK chats with local stylist Jessica D’Angelo about a recent shoot that pulled together suits by two hot Montreal designers — Golden Fish Swimwear and Aqua di Lara — as well as pieces from Watkins’ line and clothing from local stores.

D’Angelo worked with hair and make-up artist Ashley Dawn, and models Natasha Ramkay and Jessica Hutchison of Models International Management. All photographs by Lindsey Gibeau.

The July 31 event is sold out, but you can get the next best thing by clicking the thumbnails below!

What was your role in this shoot?
I was the main stylist in this shoot. I was responsible for pulling the accessories and clothing, and working with the team in putting the looks together. (more…)