Film Festival Style for Less

Despite the fact that September generally means the end of summer and the approach of colder weather, there are a few things a girl can look forward to when the summer heat subsides: shopping for a new fall jacket, rocking some knee-high boots without melting from the heat, and for celebrity and film buffs alike, the Toronto International Film Festival. TIFF ’08 is in full swing, and with stars such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Anne Hathaway and Keira Knightley attending, the red carpet promises to be more glamorous than ever. So, what better time to talk to style expert Sandra Graham about red carpet fashion, trends in formal wear at TIFF, and tips on how to recreate your favourite star’s look - without the extravagant price tag?




Graham, the Jewellery and Celebrity Style Director for eBay, brought her style savvy to Toronto along with her expertise on purchasing clothing online and her sincere passion for the job. She outfitted five models in red carpet looks inspired by some of Hollywood’s elite: Keira Knightley, Angela Bassett, Anne Hathaway, Scarlett Johansson, and Charlize Theron. All of the clothing and accessories shown were purchased on eBay, and the only thing more stunning than the final looks, was the price tag.



eBay has delivered the world of high fashion to shoppers all across the globe, from those who do not have access to the labels in New York and Paris, to those who are looking to find a great deal or rare vintage find.


My favourite look of the day, inspired by Keira Knightley, consisted of a black Bebe dress, Manolo Blahnik booties, a red trench coat and a black top hat, all purchased on eBay for a total of $250. With a quick change of accessories, Graham removed the hat, coat and booties, and added a gold lace scarf, gold Christian Louboutin flats, and a gold cuff, and instantly created a softer daytime look.



As it takes a special breed of fashionista to be able to purchase beautiful clothing before actually trying it on, I had to ask Sandra some advice when purchasing clothing on eBay. Graham advises to only purchase from sellers who offer a money-back guarantee, get yourself a tape measure and ask the seller for the garment’s measurements (although most offer these right on the bidding page). Also, buy labels that you are familiar with the fit, and don’t be afraid to email the seller with your questions. With this advice and a bit of eBay persistence, every girl can recreate her favourite looks of the stars.

If you are looking for inspiration, be sure to watch the red carpet coverage of TIFF ’08. No lesser a festival than the glamorous red carpet events ubiquitous with Hollywood, Toronto’s film festival is beginning to be considered the precursor to the Oscars, states Graham. Filmmakers and actors bring their best to TIFF, in the screening rooms and to the after-parties. The one major distinction between TIFF and Hollywood however, remarks Graham, is a distinct feeling of Canadian ‘cool’ on the red carpet. Everyone is still dressed flawlessly, but the occasionally artificial PR frenzy of L.A. is not here in Toronto, and the stars are generally relaxed and enjoying themselves.



We asked Graham how she would style some of this year’s attendees. For Anne Hathaway’s gala screening of Rachel Getting Married, Graham would choose a one-shoulder Lanvin dress in a shorter length. Keira Knightley would wear a romantic, dark green vintage dress to the screening of The Duchess, but leave her hair soft and relaxed. And what would Graham herself wear to the quirky comedy Burn After Reading by the Coen brothers? A 1920’s vintage kimono with a wide belt, tall boots and a statement necklace by Kenneth J. Lane, purchased on eBay of course.



Before Graham had to be whisked away to her next appointment, we asked her for fall’s trends in formal dressing. Flowers will transcend the seasons with winter floral patterns, architectural details such as boning and corsets will be seen in evening gowns, and colour will be big, specifically purple, grey, sapphire blue and red. The chunky statement necklace isn’t going anywhere, and although none of us were sure that it ever left, the pointy toe pump is back. Belts will be narrower this season, states Graham, and black leather paired with lace will be everywhere.


Celeb Stylist Sandra Graham

Infused with Graham’s passion for vintage clothing and accessories, and now looking more forward than ever to this year’s film festival, I will return to my laptop and search the eBay website with the confidence of a pro. TIFF ’08 runs from September 4th-13th at various locations across the city. For more information about the festival visit www.tiff08.ca.

By: Heather Loney

I don't know about you, but this definitely makes me want to spend some quality time on ebay!  What are some of your favourite ebay finds?