Alexandra's Archive

For daytime to date time, the Clutch is one of our favourite ways to add sparkle without overwhelming the rest of your ensemble.  These dazzling minis are every bit as versatile as a black bag but with much more personality:

Warm Tones
(1) Judith Leiber 'Crystal and Bead Embellished Oval' US$1,995
(2) ALDO 'Lickert' C$29.98/US$29.98 (sale)
(3) Tasha 'Textured Metal' US$88

Tasty, quick, and sure to please - try one of these easy appetizers the next time you have unexpected guests!  Chances are you already have these ingredients on hand.

Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic

Fresh Mushrooms
2 cloves Garlic, minced
Cheese (any favourite), shredded
Olive Oil or Cream Cheese (according to taste)

Wash mushrooms and remove the stems, setting them aside.

Chop the stems finely...

Often a barometer of how the runway translates to the mainstream, celebs show us what's really on trend right now.  Last fall, New York Fashion Week predicted bold lips, strong eyes, and natural nudes (a.k.a. makeup-that-looks-like-you're-not-wearing-any-makeup).

While we've certainly seen all of these trends well represented, the front runner at Sunday night's Oscars was...

The Academy Awards is The Event that showcases some of the most stunning fashions, and also some of the strangest choices. This year there were a lot more show-stoppers than flops. 

Reds

Anne Hathaway in ‘Archival’ Valentino was the youngest host in Oscar history. Her gown's bustle was adorned with beautiful flower detail.  Jennifer Hudson blew the red carpet away with her...

We're choosing to ignore the lingering wintry chill and focus instead on 5 red-hot trends we're expecting to see for spring and summer:

#1:  White, and White-On-White
Akris, GAP
J.Crew, ZaraBCBG Max Azria, Joe Fresh

#2: Artistic Prints
Akris, Banana Republic
BCBG Max Azria, Joe Fresh
Lucian Matis, Sears Attitude

#3:  Safari
Banana Republic, J.Crew
Pink Tartan, Sears Attitude
Sears Attitude...

The Academy Awards are just around the corner, and everyone is giving their opinion on who will be taking Oscar home with them.  (But let's be honest - we'll be spending most of our time dissecting the red carpet fashion.)  Based on what we saw from the SAGs and Golden Globes, the speculation feels solid. Here's who we think will take home the big prizes come Oscar night.

Best...

Still stumped on Valentine's Day gift ideas?  We have a few suggestions for your sweetie from romantic to practical:

For Him
(1) Bottle Opener Case for iPhone, $13.50 - is he always searching for new gadgets? A marvel of innovation and technology brings the ultimate iPhone case
(2) The Man Can, $48.99 - pamper your sweetie with essentials from the Man Can which includes spicy shave...