SHE Canada cover girl for our February/March 2014

How Tinder
EXCLUSIVE
PRIYANKA
Revolutionalized
Online Dating
CHOPRA
SISTER
AGNES-MARIAM
for GUESS
MARC
JACOBS
A Voice for Syria
Dancing with the Stars�
Cheryl Burke
Curtain Closer at Louis Vuitton
FEB/MAR 2014 $4.99 CAD | Dhs 18.08 AED | £3.28
WHY LULULEMON
was talk of Wall Street in 2013
SHE CANADA
3
Editor/Publisher KAMRAN ZAIDI
Executive Editor PRIYA KUMAR
National Account Director ADRIAN BHATTI
Associate Editor LIZ GUBER
Art Layout Coordinator JENNIFER RONG
Travel Contributor ROBIN ESROCK
Features Contributors KAITLYNN E-A SMITH, AUSTIN ZAKARI
Health & Wellness Contributor SAM TROTTA
Social Media Manager ERUM ZEHRA
Social Media Assistants EMILY DURHAM, MARIA POSPELOVA
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COPYRIGHT © 2014 KAMRA ON PRODUCTIONS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRINTED IN PAKISTAN
SHE CONTENT
IN EVERY ISSUE:
EDITOR’S NOTE 6
SHE ONLINE 7
CONTRIBUTORS 8
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 9
STYLE SCOOP 12
HE 62
∙ HE Said, SHE Said
∙ Singh Street Style: A Totally New Kind of Fashion Blog
∙ Weekend Looks for HIM
SHE CARES 74
∙ Lady Fatemah Trust
SHE DEBATES 76
∙The Hijab in Modern Society
HEALTH/WELLNESS 78
∙ Spring Forward to your Summer Body
ON THE ROAD 84
∙ Carnival in Rio
BEAUTY 86
∙ Bare Love Beauty
∙ Spring Beauty Product Reviews
∙Hair Trends: Braids
BROWN GIRL PROBLEMS 93
QUOTE/UNQUOTE 94
∙ Famous Quotes on Love
FEATURES: 16
FASHION CENTRAL 22
∙Marc Jacobs’ Final Show at Louis Vuitton
∙ Catching up with Princesse K
∙ A Night of Neon: eStylista and Pernia’s Pop
Up Shop
∙ How lululemon Became the Talk of Wall Street
COVER STORY 38
∙Priyanka Chopra for Guess
SPECIAL FEATURES 52
∙Sister Agnes Mariam: A Voice for Syria
∙ Allegory and Illusion at the Rubin Museum in NYC
∙ Prita Chabbra: Singer, Songwriter, Activist
SOUTH ASIA 50
∙ The Latest Fashion and Lifestyle Scoop
RESTAURANT REVIEW 68
∙ Sunday Brunch at Weslodge Saloon
MARC BY MARC JACOBS
Coin Purse
$75
SHE CANADA
5
Editor’s
note
A
new year is once again upon us. For some it feels as if 2014 snuck up on us,
prompting us to resolve matters of health, finance and personal relationships. For others the
holidays are but a distant memory, and as Valentine’s Day draws near, feelings of excitement,
dread or indifference appear.
If this winter is to be remembered for one thing, it will undoubtedly be the weather. From
the unprecedented ice storm that paralyzed parts of Toronto and Ontario just in time for the
holidays to the extreme cold we experienced in the first week of 2014, this was a season marked
by headline making weather. “Polar Vortex” was a term heard by many for the first time this
year. It has caused some debate over whether it was a tool used by the media to draw attention
to the issue of Climate Change. Many were quick to point out the hyperbolic nature of the term.
Although the term “Polar Vortex” dates back to 1853, there’s no denying that both sides of the
Climate Change debate are eager to draw attention to their cause using any means necessary.
EDITOR
S.M. Kamran Zaidi
This time of year also marks the first cautious signs of spring. Though we are several weeks away
from the final thaw, we couldn’t help but look to spring’s awakening in this issues fashion pages.
We’re previewing the hottest trends to wear once that parka can finally come off.
In the fashion industry change is the only constant. Turn to page 16 for our review of Marc
Jacobs’ final collection for French luxury brand Louis Vuitton. (p.16) We also caught up with
Princesse K (p. 20) and took a look at lululemon—a company that kept both yogis and Wall
Street on the edge of their seats in 2013. (p. 26)
In this issue’s SHE Debates section we look at the transformation of the Hijab in modern
western society. The Edmonton Police Force adapted the hijab as a functional part of their
uniform and it will no doubt play big role toward a more accepting and diverse future for
Canada.
Within our pages you’ll also find an exclusive interview with Sister Agnes-Mariam. I had the
great honour of sitting down with Sister Agnes during her stay in Toronto as part of her North
American speaking tour. Sister Agnes Mariam is at the forefront of peace activism in Syria,
fighting to shed light on the misinformation in mass media and speaking for those who have no
voice. (p.32)
Our cover story celebrates Priyanka Chopra, who is the first South Asian woman to land a Guess
ad campaign. Priya Kumar offers readers the exclusive story behind the beautiful photographs
shot by Canadian music icon Bryan Adams. (p.36)
Lastly, we couldn’t help but weigh in on the Tinder phenomenon. Is this app the future of
dating? (p.70)
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we rounded up some famous words on the subject of love.
Whether you’re spending the day with someone special or skipping the festivities and clichés
altogether, we urge you to think of love in broader terms. Through friendship or solidarity,
charitable acts or simply loving yourself, let’s make this Valentine’s Day count.
Haven’t been getting out much this winter? If NYE was the last time you
got all dolled up to hit the town, go to shemagazine.ca for a complete
run-down of fun and exciting ideas. If you’re in the mood for something
more traditional then check out our line up of romantic restaurants and
lounges. If you’re seeking adventure this V-day, check out our unique date
ideas that are sure to make an impression on your beloved. And all you
single ladies—we’ve got you covered too.
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Contributors
“What was your most memorable (good or bad) Valentine’s Day?”
PRIYA KUMAR
ROBIN ESROCK
LIZ GUBER
At my Grade 12 Valentine’s Day assembly
in 2001 a (not-so-secret) admirer gifted
me an embarrassing heart-shaped box of
chocolates very publicly. I have yet to live
the moment down.
I spent a night in Quebec City’s magical
ice hotel. Beautiful, but absolutely freezing.
Sleeping in a snow room definitely puts
romance on ice.
A few years ago I found myself at Crocodile
Rock. As a college student this “Rainforest Cafe for the over-forty set” was the
last place I wanted to be. To make matters
worse, I hadn’t changed out of my barista
uniform.
Executive Editor
Travel Contributor
JENNIFER RONG
KAITLYNN E-A SMITH
Back in high school I played hookie one
Valentine’s day and a boy I didn’t even like
showed up at my door with a bouquet of
roses. I was both flattered and embarrassed
to no end.
Last Valentine’s Day I spent the night with
girlfriends at a pub in small town Scotland. We had lots of laughs after a “secret
admirer” present swap!
Art Layout Contributor
Features Contributor
Associate Editor
AUSTIN ZAKARI
Features Contributor
My most memorable Valentine’s Day was in
2013 I was skiing in Colorado with my family.
It was so beautiful there with the snow on
the mountains and the beautiful scenery. I
was so grateful for all of my blessings, simple
and grand. It was a simple celebration of
family but very meaningful to me as I was
surrounded by my husband, son, close friends
and family.
letters to the
Editor
I found the Holiday Gift Guide in last issue to be unbelievably helpful. Every time I was drawing a blank on
what to get my friends, I flipped to the guide! Thank you
for the life-saver!
-Adrika, Mississauga
I liked the Holiday Gift Guide for the most part but I
found that there were not many products for men. I
wish that the guide had catered to both genders equally.
-Dominic, North York
I was thrilled that you all covered Downton Abbey’s interview in last issue, my husband and I cant get enough
of the series or your magazine! We are already looking
forward to the next issue.
-Panna, Toronto
The restaurant review in last issue was very in depth
and really had my mouth watering but I wished that the
prices of the dishes had been included so I could better
plan when to go!
-Laura, Toronto
The spread on New Years Fashion was absolutely gorgeous! It was like you picked the pieces straight out of
my dreams. I hope you continue with the formal wear
features in the upcoming issues!
-Annalisa, Newmarket
The “He said, She Said” portion of last issue was very
relatable and really helped me through a tough situation with a close friend. I love how real and honest your
advice is, thank you.
-Anonymous, Toronto
After you wrote about eStylista.com, I check it out and
was really pleasantly surprised! They were a great feature
and definitely inspired me to try out some new and daring looks. Love it!
-Natalia, Scarborough
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Ditch your date this Valentine’s and head out
with your best girls. Opt daring black with hints
of purple and shimmering silver to add some
edge. Karl Lagerfeld’s purple animal print
skinny jeans are perfect for dinner, dancing or
movie night. Amp up your look with statement
jewellery like the Bottega Veneta spiked
ring. No need for single ladies to be left out,
especially when it comes to fashion!
1
SOPHIA WEBSTER Metallic shoes $750
2
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Peplum bustier $1,695
3
MATTHEW WILLIAMSON Wool crepe dress $1,450
4
VICTORIA BECKHAM Silk crepe dress $2,395
5
KARL LAGERFELD Animal print skinny pants $250
6
MILLY Feather mini skirt $425
7
EDDIE BORGO Door latch bracelet $450
8
ROBERTO CAVALLI Embellished skirt $5,345
9
SAINT LAURENT Metallic blazer $1,295
10
FENDI Tri-tone heels $990
10
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2
3
1
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5
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In Love Again
6
9
On the most romantic day of the year, every
woman wants to look her best. Pick a dress
or blouse and skirt combo in blushing pink,
vivacious purple or ravishing red. The Alice +
Olivia brocade dress has us in awe.Leave your
loved one speechless this February 14th with a
stunning stiletto and gold accessories to finish
the look.
1
ALICE + OLIVIA Brocade dress $440
2
LANVIN Twist effect dress $3,710
3
OSCAR DE LA RENTA Earrings $460
4
LANVIN Draped silk top $2,150
5
ZERO + MARIA CORNEJO Textired t-shirt $625
6
JIMMY CHOO Gold glitter clutch $725
7
AURÉLIE BIDERMANN Gold lace cuff $725
8
ERIKSON BEAMON Earrings $380
9
ERDEM Fluted skirt $2,135
10
JIMMY CHOO Cage booties $995
7
10
SHE CANADA
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3
2
1
4
SHEER
PERFECTION
5
Sheer fabrics with bold prints are on
trend now that the warmer weather
draws nearer. Delicate sheer skirts,
tops are reinvented this season with
daring prints and silhouettes. Dare to
be bold with the Christian Louboutin
Pigaresille shoe or Erdem’s organza
dress. Get creative and mix it up!
6
1
LES CHIFFONIERS Organza top $555
2
THEORY Sheer top $525
3
CHRISTOPHER KANE Clutch $715
4
PREEN Printed sheer blouse $1,121
5
LANVIN Printed scarf $720
6
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Pigarsille Shoe $795
7
CHRISTOPHER KANE Voile skirt $2,335
7
1
5
4
2
3
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PEARL
JAM
8
10
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1
NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD Booties $1,350
2
LANVIN Crystal and pearl belt $2,780
3
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Embellished peplum top $1,860
4
VINEET BAHL Emebllished tulle top $750
5
BIJOUX HEART Clip-on earrings $500
6
BALMAIN Embellished pants $5,825
7
ERICKSON BEAMON Crystal and pearl necklace $1,654
8
TOPSHOP Bralette $80
9
BIJOUX HEART Ring $350
10
LANVIN Earrings $1,095
11
A-MORIR Sunglasses $585
12
CHANEL Pearl earrings *price upon request
13
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Satin sandals $965
Pearls aren’t just for necklaces
anymore. Major staples in
Chanel’s 2014 ready-towear show, pearls have been
reinvented to reflect a sexy
sophistication. Wear your pearls
on clothing in an Alexander
McQueen peplum top or
Topshop bralette for a look that’s
the farthest thing from Granny
Chic.
11
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SHE CANADA
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SUIT UP
for Spring
7
From the boardroom to the catwalk,
a suit has never been sexier. Suit
and tuxedo inspired fit and accents
are right off the runway from Balmain
to Valentino. This trend is perfect
for work and easily transitions into
evening. Add a bold lip colour with a
simple cat eye to complete this look
from head to toe.
9
1
BALMAIN Teuxedo jacket $4,195
2
LANVIN Blouse $1,290
3
ROLAND MOURET Satin two-tone top $1,735
4
KARL LAGERFELD Stainless steel watch $335
5
ROBERTO CAVALLI Tuxedo blazer $2,375
6
DOLCE & GABBANA Silk blouse $1,095
7
THE ROW Leather tote $4,365
8
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Cigarette trousers $1,195
9
GUCCI Python pencil skirt $4,400
10
SAINT LAURENT Leather bow collar $795
11
ROLAND MOURET Leather pumps $825
10
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1
2
3
4
by the
BOOK
6
This season you can
look like a student again
without the sleepless
nights. Pastel pinks and
bold prints make this a
trend for literary lovers.
The Great Gatsby phone
case and Olympia LeTan clutch are sure to
leave you daydreaming.
Take advantage of the
textbook fashion trend
while reminiscing about
recess and school dances.
5
7
6
1
OUT OF PRINT East and West neckalce $34
2
WILFRED Blouse $110
3
OUT OF PRINT iPhone Case $25
4
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD Skirt $485
5
MODCLOTH Luck be a Lady dress $79
6
LONGCHAMP Backpack $525
7
MODCLOTH Collar necklace $21
8
OLYMPIA LE TAN Clutch $1,880
9
FRATELLI ROSSETTI Loafers $640
9
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SHE CANADA
15
WEDDING FEATURE
By Liz Guber
LOUIS VUITTON
SPRING/SUMMER 2014
D
a fond farewell
By Liz Guber
on’t let the heavy presence of black fool you, the Louis
Vuitton SS14 show was far from a funeral mourning the departure of
Marc Jacobs. In fact, the runway spectacle was anything but sad.
Following the announcement that Jacobs would step down from
his role at the helm of the French fashion house after 16 years, the
designer presented a final hurrah at the Cour Carrée du Louvre. The
set design was a true retrospective of Jacob’s theatrical showings for
Louis Vuitton. Train corridors, a carousel and a backward running
station clock all echoed seasons past.
Jacobs admitted to playing the soundtrack of Chicago and Rihanna
on repeat whilst designing the collection, and this comes as no
surprise once one sees the clothes. With showgirls acting as his
initial inspiration, Jacobs executed sparkly paillettes, dramatic
feathered headdresses and imaginative use of sheer fabrics to create a
collection that felt elevated yet approachable.
Starting things off with a bang, model Edie Campbell opened the
show wearing a sheer bodysuit painted with graffiti synonymous
with the Louis Vuitton brand. What followed was a spectacle of
black, offset only by blue denim. For further inspiration Jacobs
looked to grunge and baroque, Muccia Prada and Elsa Schiaparelli.
Delicate sheer embellished tops and dresses were given an edge
with the use of slouchy ubiquitous jeans—a fresh take on the
juxtaposition of hard and soft, feminine and masculine.
SHE CANADA
17
The spellbound audience didn’t know where to look as the dizzying
procession of models rode the various set pieces, gliding out of
elevators or spinning on the carousel. Atop their heads were custom
made feather headdresses dreamed up by British milliner Stephen
Jones, whose prior design partnerships include Burberry and Karl
Lagerfeld. The plumaged creations were over four feet tall and framed
the elaborate spectacle in true showgirl style.
When Jacobs began his tenure at Louis Vuitton, he took the French
leather goods company founded in 1854 to unprecedented heights.
The house was named the world’s most valuable luxury brand for
six consecutive years from 2006 to 2012. Currently the brand is
worth over 25 billion dollars, and is responsible for some of the most
coveted and iconic accessories on the luxury market.
In fashion change is the only constant. As Jacobs prepares his
eponymous brand for an IPO, Nicholas Ghesquière (who just left
his role as Creative Director at Balenciaga) has been named as his
replacement. He’s certainly got big shoes to fill.
SHE CANADA
19
FASHION CENTRAL
By Liz Guber
W
e first featured Karishma Shahani, the
creative force behind Mumbai-based accessory label Princesse K,
in our inaugural September issue over a year ago. Since then a lot
has changed for both SHE and Princesse K. Looking back to our
beginnings and where we are now, we thought it a good idea to catch
up with Shahani and her latest achievements.
This year has been full of milestones for Karishma Shahani. The
biggest among them was Shahani getting married and settling down
in the United States. Shahani’s relocation opened up new doors for
her accessories line with Princesse K becoming available Stateside:
“I met the curator of the Contemporary Art Centre in Cincinnati
and she loved the Maharani Luxe collection and they bought out a
part of the collection for the museum store” said Shahani, adding,
“The response has been great. We have now started retailing our
the Luxury Handbag
Label Comes to America
Love and Lust collection of clutches at the store as well.”
Shahani has been keeping herself busy, churning out exciting new
collections and collaborating with international artists. Maharani
Luxe, Shahani’s favourite collection so far, tapped the talents of UK
based illustrator Hormazd Narielwalla to create custom artwork for
totes, wallets and other accessories in the line. Shahani revealed the
man behind the illustrations: “The artist, credited with revitalizing
bespoke Savile Row tailoring patterns as unique paper collages,
has created custom patterns and designs exclusively for the latest
collection from Princesse K: Maharani Luxe—a contemporary
presentation of the Indian Maharani and Maharaja.”
Looking through the latest offerings on the Princesse K website it
is evident that Shahani has a distinct point of view. Mixing classic
FASHION CENTRAL
shapes (the line was after all inspired by Princess Grace of Monaco)
with bright colours, metallic textures and fun designs results in a
playful, yet sophisticated approach to accessorizing. Shahani seeks
inspiration from her travels, fashion magazines and even window
shopping. Trends and inspirations are then executed in structured
shapes, giving the items a timeless appeal. “Personally I love
structured bags and you will notice almost all the styles from my
collections are structured tote bags, clutches or cross body satchels,”
adds Shahani.
Shahani’s own favourites from her line include the beige Maharani
Tote, which prominently features Nareilwalla’s artwork. She also
revealed details of her next collection, titled “Pockets of India,”
“Traditional fabrics from all across India come together to form
this collection.” Other standout items from Princesse K include an
envelope clutch that comes in a variety of colours and finishes, from
neon orange to gold lamé. The finishing touch is a pair of pouty lips
adorning the bag. Another piece worth noting is a classic satchel,
reinvented for the modern girl in a show-stopping metallic maroon.
Continuing in the spirit of past collections, Shahani doesn’t use
leather or other animal-derived materials. Recently PETA awarded
Princesse K the award of Best Vegan Handbag Brand for 2013, yet
another step toward global recognition of the Princesse K name. At
this rate, we can only imagine what our profile on this innovative
designer will be like next year.
SHE CANADA
21
EXCLUSIVE
Dancing with the Stars’
CHERYL BURKE
By Priya Kumar
I
f there were a draft pick that drew as much female attention
as the NFL or NHL does male, it would without argument be
that of Dancing with the Stars. For those living under a rock and
unfamiliar with the series, Dancing with the Stars is a partnered
dance competition that features twelve white-hot celebrities of
the moment paired with twelve professional “in-house” dancers.
The buildup to each season’s lineup unveiling is one of the year’s
top headlines with morning shows and entertainment blogs alike
vying to make the big announcement first. In fact, this year TMZ
managed to leak this season’s lineup fully knowing ABC would be
none too pleased about it. And with
a roster that includes Nicole “Snooki”
Polizzi, Elizabeth “Jessie Spano” Berkley
and Bill Nye the Science Guy, could you
blame them? Perhaps not since Kim
Kardashian’s season has there been a
more high-profile line up. Dancing with
the Stars returned for its 17th (!) season
on September 16th, in a whole new
format—two-hour installments every
Monday night with the elimination
occurring on the spot without
keeping the audience in suspense over night. The voting will be a
combination of the judges’ scores and viewers’ votes from the week
prior.
What led you to pursue a career in dancing?
I began dancing at the age of four and I knew immediately that
it was a passion of mine. Actually, I started with ballet, but I was
not in love with it. I literally started growing out of my tights! My
mother and stepdad did ballroom dancing socially and they wanted
us as a family to do something together and so when I was 11 they
brought me to a ballroom dance competition. There I saw children
in costumes, makeup, hair, and interacting with their partners. And
that’s what got me into it.
That is what it is all about for me.
Transforming people’s lives and
motivating them to do something that
they may not think they are good at.
Recently, at a press event for impress Press-On Manicure by
Broadway I had the opportunity to catch-up with Cheryl Burke—
perhaps the most talented professional dancer in the series, having
been the first female dancer to win the competition and the first
professional to win two seasons consecutively. This season she’s
paired with Jack Osbourne. Here’s what she had to say about her
career as a dancer, representing imPRESS and what she sees for her
future:
Dancing has been a huge part of primetime television since 2006.
How has it changed your day-to-day as a dancer?
It has obviously put dancing on the map. Before DWTS we were
usually just considered as backup dancers. So it has definitely
changed the whole image. People have become more respectful of
the art form. We are athletes. And I don’t think people understood
how hard we work until Dancing with the Stars.
Prior to the show, where did you see your career headed?
I was a competitive ballroom dancer. I lived all over the world from
Denmark to New York. I was competing effectively and had a certain goal to
become a World Champion. I was getting there slowly, but surely. Meanwhile, I
was making money by teaching dance. That’s what I would’ve been doing.
And what was your favorite part of the world to live in while dancing?
I am a California girl, but I think out of all the places, Denmark over the
summer was great. But in the winter, there is no sun and no life.
When designing the Christmas collection for imPRESS, did you have a
color scheme in mind? Were you involved with planning the
sets as a whole?
I was very much involved. All the main colours are the most
popular; you’ve got the neon that everyone just loves; the classic
red, that I have on right now; black, that works with everything;
and then there’s dark green that respectively represents the
holiday season. On top of that, it is really important to add on
the nail art, because that is very in right now as well as fun! Not
only that, but the nail art is really who I am because I like to mix
and match, especially with my costumes. And so I thought it was
really significant to add nail art and do something different and
something that has never been done before.
Why did you choose imPRESS by Broadway nails to partner with?
The reason [I chose] Broadway nails is because I fell in love with
the nails instantly. I saw Nicole Scherzinger in her commercial and
I was wondering if it really works. And if it is the only brand that
I can apply on and does not come off [when dancing]. They stay on
consistently. They have so many different colours and options. It was just
so easy and I thought that this was something I needed to get into. I believed
it would be the perfect partnership!
In terms of Dancing with the Stars, is there any season that particularly stands
out to you the most?
Obviously, the [second] season. It was my very first and I had won. And a few
of my favorites—Emmitt Smith, Season 3, I won that season with him. And
dancing with Rob Kardashian on Season 13 because he is just someone that
people were not rooting for and then everyone fell in love with him. That is
what it is all about for me. Transforming people’s lives and motivating them to
do something that they may not think they are good at.
How do you feel about training the dancers? What is your overall feeling
throughout the process and the end result?
I meet a different personality each season and my goal is to make them a
dancer. It all depends on how invested they are. Some people come in and
they are not really into it. While others come in and are so into it and want
to win! At the end of the day my goal is to make my celebrity look good and
shine and essentially turn them into a dancer.
Catch Dancing with the Stars on Monday nights this fall at 8PM on CTV Two
and ABC across North America.
SHE CANADA
23
a night with
NEON
A collaboration between eStylista and Pernia’s
Popup Shop, A Night of Neon was held in
London to bring awareness and raise funds for
three of the UK’s biggest South Asian charities
T
By Priya Kumar
he holiday season starts early in London and
Friday, November 15th was as good an evening as ever to
raise funds for Pratham, The Akashaya Patra Foundation
and Women’s India Association—three of the largest South
Asian charities in the city. Held at the prestigious Montcalm
Hotel at Marble Arch off bustling Oxford Street, A Night
of Neon brought together the who’s who of London’s South
Asian fashion fraternity.
The evening promised a night to remember with eStylista
joining forces with Pernia Qureshi’s online venture Pernia’s
Popup Shop to raise funds for these worthy causes in
support of empowering women in South Asia while looking
fabulous all in one shot.
There was even a fashion flash mob put on by next gen
designer Masaba Gupta. The daughter of revered West
Indies cricketer Viv Richards and veteran Bollywood starlet
Neena Gupta, Masaba’s eponymous label has become
one to watch. Her saris weave her exotic heritage into one
fashion label like never before with distinctly South Asian
silhouettes that include saris, dhoti pants and cholis crossed
with Afro-Caribbean block printing techniques. Wearing a
Masaba piece is akin to draping a water colour canvas over
one’s shoulder. The flash mob consisting of models wearing
Masaba’s most recent collection and dancing in formation
was the highlight of the evening.
FASHION CENTRAL
SHE CANADA
25
When Life gave it Lemons…
Accused of fat-shaming after its unprecedented yoga
pant recall of 2013, Canadian fitness giant lululemon
athletica just can’t seem to catch a break.
By Priya Kumar
lululemon has become more than a household name across North
America in the past decade—it is the uniform of young mums, students
and gym rats alike. Chances are if you’re a working professional with
a lax office dress code, you’re wearing lululemon at least once a week.
Even men have jumped on the bandwagon with Anderson Cooper
recently (and reluctantly given the firestorm surrounding the brand)
admitting on his talk show to having bought a pair of their basic shorts
and, well, loving them. One would be hard-pressed to find a critic of the
stretchy and flattering yoga-wear brand; that was until 2013. lululemon
began to receive their first complaints in March 2013 about their pants
being sheer to completely see-through. What followed for the Canadian
yogawear juggernaut would defy all logic.
In December 2013 a Twitter storm brewed over some tasteless
marketing at lululemon’s Bethesda, Maryland store. A display read:
“Cups of Chai/Apple Pies/Rubbing Thighs?” The sign baffled passersby and photos of the tactless wording in distinct lululemon font went
viral, prompting the company to remove it. “We’re deeply sorry, the
display is being taken down,” lululemon issued in a statement. “We
celebrate that thighs rub together—ours do too.”
Many believe the poem contextualized lululemon founder Chip
Wilson’s statements on BloombergTV about his pants not working for
all women due to “rubbing through the thighs.”
Before tackling the severity of his remarks, it’s worth going back to
the beginning of the controversy in spring 2013. Customers began
to complain en-masse about the classic luon yoga pants they were
accustomed to now displaying a level of sheerness. After lululemon
released a statement calling the error a “manufacturing issue,” their
manufacturer Taiwan-based Eclat Textile Co Ltd swung back by
telling Reuters that the problem was “a gap between lululemon’s
expectations and reaction from the market…We checked our orders
this morning and indeed, we did follow their instructions to make
the product,” said Roger Lo, a representative from Eclat. “lululemon
introduced the product to the market and their customers are not
comfortable with its opacity.”
The recall affected around 17% of all women’s bottoms in-store,
sending stocks of both lululemon and Eclat tumbling. Losses in
revenue were estimated at $57 to $67 million. In a strange turn of
events, by the time the pants were returned to shelves in June all the
pent up demand for the versatile stretchy pants had a rebound effect
on stock prices sending them up 18%. Incidentally, lululemon CEO
of five years Christine Day used the opportunity to announce her
decision to step-down.
To add to the eccentricities of the company, the day after Day
announced her departure—which she planned on only after a new
CEO was found—a CEO WANTED ad appeared on their website.
Among the requirements for this role were: a love of wheatgrass-andtequila shots, the ability to hold a headstand for 10 minutes and a
business plan to bring yoga to Mars in 2013.
lululemon Athletica prides itself on its unconventional corporate
culture. Founded in 1998 by Dennis “Chip” Wilson, it opened its first
doors in laidback Kitsilano, BC in 2000. The location was much less
a retail store than a space where customers and yoga experts could
come together to discuss healthy living and exercise. It also included
a yoga studio. Because the store became far too crowded under this
model, designated “Educators”—what lululemon calls their sales
staff—were put in place and the business model lululemon is known
for today developed.
SHE CANADA
27
Besides boasting a top-of-the-line product with a unique take on
customer service, lululemon’s mantra has more recently shifted to
promoting political rhetoric as well. A collection of their shopping
bags in Canada at one point displayed the question: “Who is John
Galt?” As one of the most memorable lines from Ayn Rand’s 1957
novel Atlas Shrugged, the promotion of this novel also suggested
lululemon’s support of an every-man-for-himself mentality as
opposed to its former community-based approach. Wilson read the
book at the age of 18 and even added it to the staff required reading
list. A blog post about the decision to include Atlas Shrugged as a
part of lululemon’s philosophy stated: “Many of us choose mediocrity
without even realizing it. Why do we do this? Because our society
encourages mediocrity. It’s easy to be mediocre than great…Our bags
are visual reminders for ourselves to live a life we love and conquer
the epidemic of mediocrity. We all have a John Galt inside of us,
cheering us on.” Their yogi fan base was not moved and a petition on
Change.org launched to distance the brand from this ideology.
On November 18th, Stephen Colbert took a moment on The Colbert
Report to dissect the off-colour remarks made by Wilson over
the past decade in reference to the “thigh-rubbing” controversy.
In 2005 Wilson told National Post Business Magazine he chose
the name lululemon because the Japanese would have a tough
time pronouncing it: “It’s funny to watch them try and say it.” He
continued, “It was thought that a Japanese marketing firm would not
try to create a North American sounding brand with the letter “L”
because the sound does not exist in Japanese phonetics. By including
an “L” in the name it was thought the Japanese consumer would find
the name innately North American and authentic. In essence, the
name “lululemon” has no roots and means nothing other than it has 3
“L’s” in it. Nothing more and nothing less.”
Former lululemon CEO Christine Day
Colbert also bought up Wilson’s thoughts on how birth control pills
were responsible for high divorce rates today: “Women’s lives changed
immediately [after the pill]….Men did not know how to relate to the
new female. Thus came the era of divorces.”
In reference to a clip of Wilson’s video apology for his remarks
to Bloomberg about thigh-rubbing being the cause of the pants’
sheerness, Colbert continued, “You hear that ladies? Chip Wilson
is sad that your chafing ham hocks made him put his employees
through this difficult time.” Colbert concluded, “Thank you Chip
Wilson. For lifting your leg to pee on your customers and then
blaming them for being wet. You sir, are my Alpha Dog of the
Week.” Called the “worst apology ever” by CBS News, Wilson’s
The recall affected around 17%
of all women’s bottoms in-store,
sending stocks of both lululemon
and Eclat tumbling. Losses in
revenue were estimated at $57
to $67 million.
video message to lululemon customers in response to his remarks
on BloombergTV on thigh-rubbing did not include any regret or
retraction of the remarks.
In an interesting turn of events as this piece was going to print, Chip
Wilson announced his resignation from lululemon as Chairman
of the Board of Directors. In the same press release, Christine
Day’s replacement for CEO was also announced; it will be Laurent
Potdevin, former CEO of TOMS Shoes. In response to Potdevin’s
appointment, Wilson said: “lululemon’s success has always been and
will continue to be my highest priority. I am delighted that Laurent
will be joining lululemon and believe his talents and experience
ideally complement our existing management team. I know he
will have a strong impact on the business as he has the vision and
leadership capabilities necessary to create and direct its future. As
Laurent joins as CEO, I believe that now is the right time for me to
begin to transition out of my role as Chairman of the Board.”
With the New Year only having just begun, the saga that is lululemon
will continue to bring business analysts and yoga enthusiasts
together like never before. Called the fastest growing brand in
Canada, lululemon ranked in the top 10 of Best Canadian Brands by
Interbrand. Outranking the likes of Bombardier and Shoppers Drug
Mart, the future does look bright for the yogawear giant despite last
year’s hiccups. Alfred DuPuy, Interbrand Canada’s managing director,
stands by his assessment of lululemon: “They’re more than apparel.
They’re a lifestyle…they do so much.” With this most recent corporate
shakeup, only time will tell what’s in-store both figuratively and
literally for Canada’s top apparel retailer.
SHE CANADA
29
ALLEGORY
and
ILLUSION
Early Portrait Photography from South Asia at the Rubin Museum
B
By Liz Guber
ack in October, the Rubin Museum in New York City—
an institution that prides itself on representing art and artifacts
of Himalayan Asia—opened a fascinating exhibit of portrait
photography from India, Burma (now Myanmar), Ceylon (now
Sri Lanka) and Nepal. The exhibit explored the telling relationship
between photography and colonialism, chronicling the spread of
photography in colonized areas in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Many different subjects were represented, from the Nepalese Royals
to the masses. Some photos represent the way the medium was
used to suppress and control the South Asian people, while others
optimistically depict the way photography was adopted as an art
form by its very subjects. This was especially evident in India where
photographs were painted over and embellished. One example shows
a Gujarati nobleman whose sword and coat have been adorned with
sequins, velvet and gold wire. Some examples are so heavily painted
over, it’s nearly impossible to distinguish them as photographic works.
Most photographs are studio portraits, however variations are
noticeable from colony to colony. The offerings from Nepal are
almost exclusively royal court portraits, painting the colony as a regal
and exotic land. Conversely, much of the photography of Ceylon
The exhibit
explored the
telling relationship
between
photography
and colonialism,
chronicling
the spread of
photography in
colonized areas in
the 19th and 20th
centuries.
focuses on landscapes in order to emphasize the island as a plentiful
provider of tea.
Mira Nair and Christopher Pinney presented the exhibition. Nair,
a filmmaker whose debut feature Salaam Bombay! was nominated
for an Academy Award, Golden Globe and BAFTA for best foreign
language film as well as the Camera D’Or and Prix du Publique
at the Cannes Film Festival, has become one of India’s most wellknown filmmakers. Her latest film, The Reluctant Fundamentalist
garnered high praise when it premiered at the Toronto International
Film Festival. Nair has become a dedicated mentor to many up-andcoming filmmakers in South Asia and East Africa through the Rolex
Mentorship Program.
Pinney is a Professor of Anthropology and Visual Culture at
University College London. His knowledge spans the art and visual
culture of South Asia with particular focus on photography, making
him the perfect speaker and contributor to the exhibit’s catalogue.
Allegory and Illusion features over 120 works spanning nearly a
century and offering a one-of-a-kind chance to take in South Asia’s
colonial history though art.
Mira Nair
The exhibit is on at the Rubin Museum until February 10th.
SHE CANADA
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Sister Agnes-Mariam
B
a Voice for Syria
orn Fadia al-Laham in Jounieh, Lebanon, Sister
Agnes-Mariam came to Syria 19 years ago and has
since become a globally recognized peace activist.
Following the death of her father when she was
just 15 years old, the future nun spent her youth
travelling between India and Nepal. Coming to embrace the
solitary life, the Sister spent 22 years in complete isolation in a
Carmelite monastery in the highlands of Lebanon. Following this
experience Sister Agnes-Mariam came to Syria with other nuns to
rebuild the Monastery of St. James the Mutilated and to serve as
the monastery’s Mother Superior.
A series of peaceful protests during the Arab Spring in 2011
triggered an escalating violent backlash from the Bashar Al-Assad
led government in Syria and has since led to full fledged civil war.
Once the U.S. government announced that a gas attack in August
killed 1,429 people tensions heightened and the conflict gained
international attention.
After her safety was threatened, Sister Agnes-Mariam was forced
to leave the monastery in June 2012, and she now resides in
Damascus, fighting for a brighter future for her adopted land.
Sister Agnes-Mariam aims to counter the misinformation in
international media, calling on the world not to attack Syria nor
supply rebels with arms, believing that no good can rise from
violent interference. During a recent trip to Toronto, Sister AgnesMariam sat down with SHE’s Publisher and Editor KAMRAN
ZAIDI to lend some insight on the topic that has been at the
forefront of our collective conscience.
You said you believed in the Gas attacks at Houla
were fabricated to a certain extent. What lead you to
this conclusion and why do you feel the western media
is using it as propaganda?
I only said that some videos were fake, prefabricated
and staged. But in my forward study that I issued I said
that I will not interfere in expertise to say if there is or
is not a chemical attack. My approach is not military or
medical. I just limited myself to talk about the material
of the video. Now what does this imply? I prefer not
to answer because we have to wait for an unbiased
international commission of inquiry. To come and to
verify underground and the dead people, where are
they? If there is not a pit, this will be very interesting.
The term “Arab Spring” has been used quite often by
Western media, referring to an uprising in the Middle
East for democracy. What are your thoughts on that?
I think that all of the people in the Middle East are
all worthy of good change and shifting in their life.
When we enter in the so-called Arabic Spring, we see
Indonesia, Egypt and Libya and now Syria; it doesn’t
seem like a spring, some are saying it is winter and I
democratic rules. Now instead of working together and
giving change for liberals who are well prepared and
organized with the prophet, the Muslim brotherhood
and subsequently the more radical groups hijacked
this revolution with a very fundamentalist approach.
Now they want to implement a caliphate. But, as I said,
it is a weird caliphate; it doesn’t have anything to do
with the real caliphate. So now the best way to help
Syria is to stop fueling those Jihadists from outside
by arming them and to stigmatize the use of religion
in politics. I think that just as anti-Semitism and
Apartheid has been fought and proclaimed wrong by
the UN, any religious extremism should be considered
as wrong. Finally they should support the dynamic
reconciliation inside of Syria to pave the way for a
peaceful settlement.
Being a Christian in Syria, do you feel that your
followers of your religion are especially targeted in the
civil war?
Everybody is targeted in the civil war. The civil war
does not have compassion for anybody. This is a
reality and the world should take it into account. We
are not advocating the merit of anybody, we are just
saying that people have
the right to choose and
today the majority is
aligned—more aligned—
than before because
the revolution was a
big failure. You see it
accepted being polarized
by fundamentalism and
by violence.
Although the Sister originally came to Syria to use her
knowledge of Ancient Middle Eastern art to restore a
dilapidated monastery, her legacy will be the brave message
of peace and resolution she risks her life to propagate.
would say it is hell because of this interference and
this hijacking of the legitimate aspiration of people
for better life. [This aspiration] has been hijacked by
politics now. The radicals and the extremists of Islam
who chose violence and discrimination to impose a
kind of rule based on a very narrow interpretation
of the Quran. The infiltration of this radical Islam is
creating a lot of trouble and it is a discredit to the real
Islam.
In your words Sister, what is the root cause of the civil
unrest in Syria and what can the UN do to help?
The reality on the ground in Syria [can be described
as] we say in French, “obsolete” which means out of
date. It is the fruit of the Cold War and of the east
wall of the Soviet Union, a kind of socialist regime.
It was mixed with nationalism. Adding to that is
the intervention of the Muslim Brotherhood [which
has been] trying since the ‘80s to overthrow the
actual government and hijacked the strife of a good
percentage of the population for more liberal laws and
Sister, given the extent of the violence, we are talking
about the violence and the loss of life in Syria, what
do you feel the long-term impact of the war will be on
the average Syrian individual?
I have been in Syria for 19 years and this war let us see
that the Syrian people are extremely strong and elastic.
You know when you are elastic, you have a shock and
you are not broken. I don’t know if I could say this
about other people. They are very elastic and they do
not despair. They are always open to relationships and
I have seen beautiful examples of mutual forgiveness
and reconciliation in the midst of the most terrible
monstrosities—like this one. So I think that the Syrian
people will need time to be rebuild their own resources
as administrative buildings and hospitals has been
destroyed along with the roads, but they have to built
their memory and their mutual relationships. This
is a big wound, this wound is extremely painful but
I don’t foresee a kind of hatred if it is not fueled by
outside powers. So, it will take some time for people
will come back and restore their villages because now
SHE CANADA
33
people don’t know if someone will come and invade them again.
It happened many times since the beginning of this crisis. I
think that we have to help the Syrian people come together more
and more to understand and find a way to make conscious and
responsible decisions about their future.
Sister, in the past how has the Assad Government treated nonMuslims?
[There is] a myth that the Christians are aligned with the
government because they are very well treated. It is a myth! I
think that not to discriminate Christians isn’t a gift, it is a duty. So
they were treated as all of the others but if you compare to some
other Gulf countries, they were very well treated.
In Syria?
Yes, the ambassador of the Vatican said that he would give ten
out of ten to Syria on the freedom of religion. In Syria it was
forbidden to talk about religion. Religion was a kind of state
secret. So it was forbidden to enter in religious discussion or to
propose your belief. So we think that all of the people in Syria
are a minority, they have to understand each other, help each
other and carry each other on their shoulders until the day the
government will be able to give to each one or introduce each on
to its real participation in the shaping of the state because they are
not really participating today.
Sister, you are taking great risks in speaking up, which we
greatly appreciate and respect. What is your motivation? In
your writing you have mentioned that it has to do with your
humanity.
I live in Syria and it is a duty for me to take care of the city
and people. We are not living in a sterilized balloon. We can
be immersed and participate in the joy and sorrows of our
neighborhood. So, we were pushed to know better than to
conflict, talk about it in an unbiased way and feel how the Syrian
people were the target of blind terrorism. But this terrorism was
covered by the mainstream media. I began to talk because nobody
will talk. I was the first to talk to a non-political and non-biased
level. I am not incriminated but I want to show the reality of what
is happening in Syria for the Syrian population and the Syrian
heritage and their resources.
Although the Sister originally came to Syria to use her knowledge
of Ancient Middle Eastern art to restore a dilapidated monastery,
her legacy will be the brave message of peace and resolution she
risks her life to propagate. Sister Agnes-Mariam’s relationship with
Syrian government agencies has allowed for humanitarian aid to
the displaced. Sister Agnes-Mariam was also at the forefront of a
successful evacuation of thousands of women and children caught
between rebel and government forces in October.
Following a two-day stay in Toronto as part of a weeklong visit to
Canada, Sister Agnes-Mariam travelled to New York to continue
her North American speaking tour backed by the Syrian Solidarity
Movement. The Movement is a nonprofit organization made up of
American, Canadian and Australian peace activists seeking a nonviolent reconciliation.
For more information please visit
www.syriasolidaritymovement.org
SHE CANADA
35
PRIYANKA
CHOPRA
Makes History as
the face of
GUESS
By Priya Kumar
“I don’t believe what I’m doing is a
‘crossover.’ For me it’s all about being
creative, and it doesn’t matter which
country or language I do it in.”
I
It took Paul Marciano—the creative director of GUESS—only a moment,
a cursory glance, to find the new face of his latest campaign. As one of
the largest and most iconic fashion empires the world has ever known,
GUESS has run campaigns that regularly feature supermodels (Kate
Upton, Claudia Schiffer, Anna Nicole Smith) and Hollywood starlets
(Drew Barrymore), but Priyanka Chopra brought something new to the
table: her ethnicity. Not just any ethnicity, but South Asian to be precise.
She is the first Indian woman to front the fashion and apparel giant and
the precedent will no doubt pave the way for other South Asian faces in
fashion.
Dubbed a young incarnation of Sophia Loren by Marciano, fashion
fiends had an idea of what GUESS had in store for the new campaign.
Vintage-inspired with black-and-white sepia overtones, Canadian rock
‘n’ roller Bryan Adams sat behind the camera lens—Chopra even opened
up about a moment that involved Adams serenading her on-location.
He’s in fact such a big name in India that when she initially heard he
would be shooting the campaign she didn’t believe it was actually the
singer.
The campaign is a huge step for both GUESS in regards to embracing
diversity and Chopra as a global face. Considering the fashion label’s
international reach and omnipresence in global premium fashion, the
move is far less political than plain old good business sense.
GUESS was founded in 1981 by Moroccan-born, French-raised Georges
and Maruice Marciano. They opened their first store in Beverley Hills
and were soon joined by their brothers Paul and Armand in the business
venture. Previously, the brothers had owned a chain of apparel stores
in France but shut it down to avoid a FF 9 million tax bill. The store
initially specialized in jeans designed by Georges; the name GUESS
was selected because the brothers struggled with English at the time
and it was a word they could all pronounce. The triangle logo GUESS
has become known for featured prominently on the back pocket of the
jeans, making the Marciano brothers pioneers in the designer denim
movement of the 80s.
SHE CANADA
39
At the end of 1981 Georges Marciano took a trip to New York
City to expand his denim empire. It was a trip that would change
his career and solidify GUESS as a household name in American
premium fashion. On a visit to Bloomingdale’s flagship store to
peddle his garments, Marciano managed to convince buyers to
take a chance on the relatively unknown denim brand. Despite
his limited English, he managed to sell the department store
giant a mere 30 pairs of jeans. Displayed for only three hours
with a price tag of a whopping $60—a small fortune at the
time—all 30 pairs managed to sell out completely.
Back in California, Paul Marciano took control of the GUESS
image. Although he had no previous experience in brand
marketing and advertising, his vision for the nascent denim
brand was clear. In the 1980s advertising was all about clean
studio photography, but Paul had other plans in mind. The
campaigns that resulted revolutionized the fashion industry. As
opposed to shooting in studio, Paul took the models outdoors
to pose provocatively in black-and-white vintage shots. The
campaigns were described by Forbes as “catering to teenage
cravings for sex, power, attention and self-love…electric not only
with sexuality but with an implicit brutality and exhibitionism
as well.” Although not without its critics, the campaign worked
making the brothers millionaires by the end of 1982.
The 80s and 90s marked periods of exponential growth and
struggle for GUESS. Even with lawsuits against sitting board
members, accusations of sweatshop conditions in American
factories and knockoffs becoming available on every corner,
GUESS still managed to diversify into home furnishings,
children’s wear, watches and footwear. By the spring of 2000
GUESS was at its peak in popularity; it was no coincidence it was
the same year Naomi Campbell, Anna Nicole Smith and Claudia
Schiffer appeared in its campaigns.
While 9/11 a year later and the recession resulting from the dot.
com bust slowed the denim brand down, GUESS struck back
in 2004 with a campaign fronted by Paris Hilton—who was
incidentally also at her peak at the time—in an effort to recapture
customers and the glamorous image the brand was so well known
for in the past. The high-profile collaboration also coincided
with the launch of the Marciano brand. Named in homage of the
GUESS founders, Marciano was positioned as slightly higherend, focused on evening wear and resurrecting the now defunct
designer jean of the early 90s.
Today GUESS is a billion-dollar multinational retailer and one of
the most renowned apparel brands in the world. Besides putting
out a quality product beloved by their loyal customers for decades,
they have perfected the sale of an image. Considering the growth
in sales western fashion is seeing in Asia, it’s no surprise Priyanka
Chopra is the face of GUESS in 2014. Her look is not only in line
with GUESS’ voluptuous, sex-kitten image, but she as a personality
speaks to a nation of 1.2 billion that represent the future of of
premium fashion sales.
Priyanka Chopra’s fame is a product of the Bollywood machine—
like a cookie-cutter, Bollywood has churned out dozens of fresh
faces over the past few decades that have and will front countless
brands from diamonds to cosmetics to even seemingly irrelevant
products like industrial building products (just ask Amitabh
Buchchan who endorses Binani Cement). Chopra’s road to fame
began like so many of her contemporaries. She was crowned
first runner up at the Femina Miss India pageant and went on to
represent India at Miss World. She won the title making her the
youngest contestant to be crowned at only 18.
This win paved the way for Chopra’s prolific film career. Without
making light of the dozens of blockbusters she’s put out since
2000 that include The Hero, Andaaz, Kaminey, Fashion and Barfi!,
she only recently decided to make a crossover into Hollywood
and American music. Her hit songs include “In My City”—a
collaboration with music producer Red One that became the
theme song for the 2013 NFL season—and “Exotic”, a club
track featuring Pitbull. It’s also a little known fact that Chopra,
following suit of A-listers everywhere, lent her voice to the Disney
Animation Studio film Planes, as the Pan-Asian champion plane
Ishani.
Clearly more than just a pretty face, Chopra has become the latest
global face of South Asia. The actress once fondly known as “Piggy
Chops” has certainly come a long way. The GUESS endorsement
stands for so much more than yet another accolade in Chopra’s
career. It’s the manifestation of the much-needed diversity the
fashion industry has been so adverse to in recent years. Now let’s
hope this paradigm shift is here to stay.
SHE CANADA
41
SHE EXCLUSIVE:
One-on-one with Priyanka Chopra
PRIYA KUMAR had the opportunity to catch-up with PRIYANKA
CHOPRA on a recent trip to New York City. Here’s what she had to
say about her work with GUESS, her music career and what she has
in store for fans in 2014.
Without a doubt, it’s Canada’s beauty. The mountains, lush greens,
and the crisp weather—it’s so different from Mumbai and LA,
which I love. I also really like the culture—it reminds me of a mini
Paris…one of my favorite places in the world.
How does it feel to be the first South Asian face of GUESS and how
did the collaboration come about?
Considering you’ve now successfully accomplished a music and
fashion crossover in America, do you have your eyes set on film
next?
Whenever I have been asked to give glam references for photo
shoots, more often than not, I’ve referenced a Guess campaign.
The women are so classically beautiful, iconic, and feminine. To be
honest, being a Guess girl was something that I would have never
thought of, but when I met Paul (we were introduced by my hair
stylist Peter Savic), within three seconds he said to me: ‘You’re it. It
has to be you.’ For a major American fashion brand to move
their campaign into a global space, well, it’s quite an honor.
Canadian music icon Bryan Adams shot the campaign. In
your opinion, what did he bring to the look and feel of the
project?
Bryan is actually featured in one of the campaign ads, which
is probably my favorite shot from the entire campaign! He
is really amazing and such a pleasure to work with—a true
modern day renaissance man with captivating charm. We got
along famously and I think that’s a lot of the reason why the
photos turned out so beautifully—we had great chemistry…
not to mention that he serenaded me with song!
How does fronting a brand with an international presence
like GUESS differ from your work with South Asian brands
like Ritu Kumar and Asmi?
My sentiment around this opportunity with Guess, to be the
first South Asian face of a global fashion brand (who is best
known for their blonde haired and blue eyed bombshells),
is so much more meaningful than I can articulate. This has
given me the opportunity to break barriers and do things
that are different from what is normally seen…making the
world a little bit smaller.
You dropped a few much-publicized singles in the past year.
What can we look forward to in 2014 from your music or
otherwise in North America?
I’m getting ready to drop my next single in March, which is
a really cool EDM version of Bonnie Raitt’s iconic song, “I
Can’t Make You Love Me.” Following that will be my album.
That’s just the beginning for 2014…
You’ve done quite a bit of promotion for various projects in
Canada. What did you enjoy most about our fine country?
I don’t believe what I’m doing is a “crossover.” For me it’s all about
being creative, and it doesn’t matter which country or language I
do it in. Acting is my heart, and I’d love to have the opportunity to
bring my talent to American cinema.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
By Emily Durhan
Not only is MAX one of the most highly regarded
names in the talent and event industry, MAX Agency
offers opportunities to their clients to learn and
develop their skills by paying for the training that
is necessary to ensure that all talent is well prepared
and confident in their field. This, in addition to years
of experience has helped to shape MAX’s credible
reputation in the talent and event industry.
MAX does not discriminate against height or
physical appearance alone as indicated on the
online evaluation package that talent fills out with
their information. MAX has successfully worked
with talent of all ages, ethnicities and body types
to remain competitive in the industry and give all
people an opportunity to explore their talents.
The information from the online application is
transferred to a highly skilled and credited agent who
will book an interview time with the prospective
client. Should the talent be offered a signing, they
will have the opportunity to work with professional
actors who run workshops to help the talent with
auditioning and to develop their talents. Previous
work is not necessary with these amazing workshops,
as the talent will be given all of the skills that they
will need to strive in the business. MAX supports
the talent every step of the way; from training to
the audition to the booking. When auditions are
available, a MAX agent will be in direct contact with
the talent about the details of the audition and our
talent is within every right to accept or decline the
opportunity because the comfort and happiness of
our clients is priority.
In addition to developing talent, MAX also is highly
regarded for developing companies. Their diverse
database of models, actors and industry insiders will
help brands take off at a significantly lower price
than traditional ad agencies. Their creative takes on
branding both companies and people are praised not
only in Toronto, but also across Canada. If you are
ready to work with the most notable names in talent
and explore your talents contact MAX agency. It is
time to take your career to the MAX.
Ready for the spotlight?
Contact MAX Agency at (416) 482-5392
or check out their website at
www.maxagency.com
SECRETS TO
SUCCESS
SPECIAL FEATURE
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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WEDDING FEATURE
CP24 news anchor Pooja Handa spends her days reporting on the latest breaking news and events, but
the biggest event in her life was fast approaching. With only six months to plan a large-scale wedding
with all the fixings, the bride-to-be relied on family and friends to make her fantasy wedding a reality.
Handa’s then fiancé Paul Pathak and she celebrated the traditional Indian festivities with 700 guests
and topped it off with a wedding video scored by recent Oscar winner Mychael Danna (Life of Pi).
Pooja Handa and Paul Pathak
TIE THE KNOT
IN AN UNFORGETTABLE
CEREMONY
By Kaitlynne E-A Smith
T
heir initial meeting was hardly a fairytale moment.
The scene was The Spoke Club on King Street West last
summer at a party of a mutual friend. With hundreds
of people in attendance, Paul was leaving as Pooja
entered. A male friend obnoxiously yelled, “Look Pooj,
a tall brown guy, you two should get together and make babies.” That
awkward comment prompted her to yell, “That wasn’t awkward”
sarcastically as the elevator door shut in front of Paul. He was
intrigued and returned to the party determined to find her. Instead of
finding Pooja, another friend introduced them, the pair grinned from
ear to ear as they officially met. He asked for Pooja’s phone number
from a mutual friend and called (not texted) her the very next day.
Pooja remembers: “We went on our first date a few days later, and he
says within the first 15 minutes he knew he was going to marry me!”
Within three months they were engaged and by ten, married.
The wedding was going to be the biggest challenge the two would
tackle together.
“Our families were over the moon about the union and so were our
friends,” Pooja remembers. Although Paul’s friends may have been a
bit more excited as the man formally known as the eternal bachelor
had friends waiting years for the monumental day he would find “the
one” and get married.
The couple’s guest list of 700 people made them realize everyone’s
excitement could bring 700 different visions of what their wedding
should be. Their vision always took precedence, but by incorporating
ideas, suggestions and especially help from family and friends during
the six-month time frame, everyone was satisfied. Pathak and Handa
shared the decision-making, as he was involved in every detail so
they could share the planning highs and lows together.
The three-day Indian wedding had each event incorporating
traditions, delicious food and bright colors. “From a custom
made crystal mandap, to the Groom’s grand entrance by two
horses and a carriage, to an even grander Bride’s exit of being
carried out on a doli, to the over the top bejeweled wedding
outfits,” it was hard to choose one aspect of the wedding best
represented Pooja’s personality.
An awkward chance encounter that turns into marriage sounds
more like a plot of a rom-com than real life. Cue the couple’s
idea to make a movie trailer for the wedding. The bride’s good
friend Mychael Danna had just won a Golden Globe and Oscar
for Best Score in “Life of Pi” when Pathak asked if he would do
their movie trailer as his next project. With no compensation
and a script that came last minute, one of Hollywood’s most
sought after and busy composers generously agreed. Danna
and Paul’s actor/comedian best friend Jazz Mann even flew in
the legendary Jazz trumpet player Leroy Jones and his band to
perform the first song at the wedding.
With help from Handa’s sister, Mann and videographers ‘Stories
Worth Sharing’ they were able to pull off a humorous version
of their love story. The six minute video was written by Handa
one late night and took over twenty hours of filming to create.
The end result was played at the reception before their grand
entrance to roaring applause and was shared online afterwards
for the rest of the world to see.
WEDDING FEATURE
Handling a large amount of guests over the course of an
overwhelming three days of celebrations was not easy. Handa
shared the secret to keeping cool in times of high stress, “It’s
amazing what a smile or a giggle can do. We laughed during
the ceremony, during the photo session, and all through the
reception. It was therapeutic! We even laughed when the ice
sculpture our caterers generously threw in mis-spelled my
name!” The couple’s happiness and love was clearly evident as
guests remarked how much love you could feel in the room.
“We tried our best to be in the moment, to laugh and to enjoy all
the love we felt in the room. It was overwhelming. But despite
that, I felt like we were very authentic to who we are and our
love. As over the top as it was... it was still honest and true to us
finding one another, and the celebration of that love.”
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P
rita Chhabra may have got her start in
entertainment as a Disney World performer, but
nowadays the Indian singer is working hard to
make music that will move you. Her focus on
music came after graduating from Concordia
in Montreal with a psychology degree leaving
her purposeless. Realizing her happiness could
only come from within, she decided to focus on
music full time and has never looked back. While
currently working on a new album, she is busy
performing and breaking new ground as a South
Asian Canadian singer. She was recently the first
South Asian recording artist to sing the national
anthems at NHL and MLB sports games. Songwriting and performing is balanced with activist
efforts. She is an advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness
after a trip to Malawi, Africa struck a chord in her
to help others.
PRITA CHHABRA
Singer, Songwriter, Activist
By Kaitlynn E-A Smith
When did you first realize that music would be more than just a
hobby for you?
When I graduated with honours and got a BA in psychology. I was
on stage receiving my diploma and everyone around me looked so
proud. I wasn’t. I realized then in that moment that I had a choice.
Either live the life my parents wanted for me, or follow my heart and
take my love for music seriously. I chose music!
How do you approach the process of writing a song?
Normally, songs come to me. I’ll be doing the dishes or driving or
taking a shower and a song will come to me. Sometimes as a whole
or sometimes little pieces at a time. I do use systems and songwriting
techniques to ensure the song is as great as it can be, but it is a very
spiritual process for me.
Has your family always been supportive of your choice to pursue
singing?
You are the first South Asian recording artist to perform the
National Anthem for the NHL and the MLB. What was the
experience like?
No. It is hard because they wanted me to be happy and they thought
that if I was a psychologist, I’d be able to have a stable life and be
happy, but that wasn’t making me happy at all. Yes at times I’d love to
have more financial stability as an independent artist but on the other
hand, I got to introduce Russell Peters to my family, and he totally left
them mesmerized! They see how happy I am now and I know they
still worry about me, but I have faith that it will all work out in the
end. My life is much happier when I’m living for a purpose, not just
for a paycheck.
Nerve-wracking and amazing. It’s a true staple song that determines if
you are a good singer or not. There’s no fancy dancers or dance moves
to distract the audience and all the focus is on your voice. It’s thrilling
and amazing to hear the whole stadium filled with just the sound
of your voice and the applause just rocks, especially when it starts
before you’ve finished singing the Anthem. People always used to
tell me that I’d never make it as an Indian girl singing English music,
and here I am, in a sari, singing the National Anthem in French and
English and...it’s amazing!
The world of entertainment is becoming more and more diverse,
are you excited to see more and more South Asian performers
dominate the music scene?
Yes. When I was younger, I wished there was someone who looked
like me that I could look up to in the mainstream and there wasn’t.
I hope I can be that girl for others, and I think it’s about time that
people learn about our music and our culture because it really is
beautiful.
As an advocate for HIV/AIDS you've traveled to Malawi on a
research trip and directed a short film. How have these experiences
changed you, and what were your motivations to take on this cause?
I’ve always had two passions in my life. Music and helping others. It
is my greatest ambition to help others through music. I feel like the
cause chose me. One of my greatest role models and inspirations is
Oprah Winfrey. I saw her trip to Africa and this strong flame was lit
in my heart. Something was telling me to go. A few months later, I
saw an opportunity to go to Malawi on an HIV/Aids research trip
and in that moment I knew it was meant for me. The experience
taught me to never take my life in North America for granted again.
We have so many opportunities and resources just waiting for us to
take action, and we don’t because we’re scared and insecure. It really
pushed me towards my singing career with more determination
and guts. At the same time, it made me aware of global issues and
things that are much more important than the issues in my tiny Prita
bubble. I am proud to be a voice for those I met in Malawi, and I love
educating the youth about my trip and all the mental shifts I had take
place while I was there.
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7. What does the future have in store for you? Can
you share any upcoming projects with our readers?
I just released my latest single and video “Aaja” a
few weeks ago. I’m working on releasing a full CD
that has a few of my recent singles and some new
tunes. I’m also back in the writing process. We’ll
see what comes out of my writing sessions! I’m also
going to be joining the cast of a theatre production
in Richmond Hill in October called “Land of the
Eternals” which is starring the Olympic champion
Elvis Stojko!
8. Finally, can you tell any young hopefuls out
there what it takes to make it in this business?
Hard work and never giving up. If you want it,
it’ll be yours as long as you are patient, work hard,
perfect your craft and wait for your time to come—
it will come!
With a newly released single, the future looks bright
for this rising young talent. Download Prita’s latest
single, “Aaja” on iTunes now where you can also
find her previous album and singles. “Land of the
Eternals” is at the Richmond Hill Centre for the
Arts October 10, 2013 tickets are available now. To
learn more and follow her touring schedule visit her
website www.PritaMusic.com.
Last week I got a Facebook message from a guy
I went to high school with who wants to go on a
date. We rarely spoke back then and he had a bad
reputation for being a player. I know it is almost
10 years later, should I give him a chance and
reconnect?
HE:
It has been a long time since you last saw this guy so
hopefully he has matured and grown up and is really looking to catch
up with you. I say no harm done by going out to see him. It’s up to you
if he gets a second date. I know facebook is not ideal to reconnect but
it probably took some bravery to speak to you after such a long time.
SHE:
I say once a player, always a player. He may be older
but maybe not wiser. Send him a message back to see what his vibe
is and if he really wants to catch up or if he is looking for something
else. See what friends you have in common and find out what he has
been up to now since school. If you two speak more just make sure you
exchange some good gossip.
A co-worker friend of mine came to a party with me
on the weekend. We had a great time and really hit
it off together. I am nervous to see him on Monday
because I am starting to have feelings for him even
though I know (and have met) his girlfriend!
HE:
You need to figure out first if he has real feelings for
you. He may think of you as a friend (sorry!) and is content in his
relationship. But, it may be a sign he is looking to stray in which case
you deserve better! You shouldn’t be any guy’s mistress and you don’t
want a guy who cheats anyways.
SHE:
He may have feelings for you but it is hard to know
since he is already in a relationship. It is hard to confront someone
you work with in case it makes things extra awkward but I would drop
subtle hints to see how he feels towards you but nothing further than
a casual flirt. You don’t want to be a home wrecker, especially if he and
his girlfriend are serious. But he may be thinking of breaking up with
his girlfriend if he is unhappy and sees how great you are.
I just signed up for online dating for the first time
and am nervous to see what is out there. I made a
profile and talked honestly about myself. However,
all the guys I see are interested in working out and
keeping fit, and want a girl who is interested in
the same. This has made me really self-conscious
of my body. Should I be worried I am not in shape
enough?
HE:
In my experience, most guys lie about working out or lie
about liking it so that girls will be more interested. Guys don’t really
like super fit girls with lots of muscle because it makes them feel less
manly! Don’t worry about your shape, most guys want someone with
a great personality and sense of humour before a super hot body (even
if they say otherwise). Most of my friends would rather watch TV on a
couch then lift weights at the gym.
SHE:
Hmm, it is hard to say if it is guys in general or just
the ones on the dating website you signed up for. If you have never
been self conscious of your body before, don’t let signing up for one
website make you start. If you are worried about having the same
interests, consider joining your local gym. You will get to know the
lingo and maybe find a hottie there.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Breast Cancer Awareness
Among Muslim Women
A Call to Change the Statistics
By Austin Zakari M.A.
O
ctober may Breast Cancer Awareness month, however
it is good to take time to consider your own health
and wellness any time of the year. One simple at home
test you can do is a breast self-exam. Unfortunately,
studies have shown that many Muslim women do not regularly do
a breast self-exam. This is an important tool in early detection for
this disease. Some good news is that breast cancer has been shown
to be diagnosed less often in Muslim women than in non-Muslim
Caucasian women. However, the fact is that it has been documented
that more Muslim women die from breast cancer than their nonMuslim Caucasian counterparts every year. Seemingly, there is a
disconnect somewhere, meanwhile breast cancer is increasingly
becoming a killer for Muslim women. There are many factors specific
to Muslim women that must be considered and which will help you
gage your risk factors for this disease. First, let’s start with the positive
attributes that contribute to the lower incidence rate for Muslim
women. Islam is a religion of piety, modesty and submission to God.
Piety and the diligence that Muslim women give to the religion is a
positive factor in that Muslim women often have few sexual partners
and tend to stay chaste till married, believe in home life and family,
and honor their bodies by not abusing alcohol or tobacco. All of
these are documented safeguards against the disease. Modesty and
submission are important as they encourage women to follow the
mandates of the Koran. The Koran promotes a healthy body and
Ramadan is a tool to help control weight gain. Extra body weight has
been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer. Additionally, the
commitment to family is a protective factor for breast cancer. Having
multiple children, breast feeding, and starting families earlier are all
positive benefits that help Muslim women keep their rates lower than
their Caucasian/non-Muslim counterparts. Multiple studies have
shown the protective effect of the above listed for their followers.
While these benefits have kept the scale tipped to favourable it is
beginning to readjust and that needs to be addressed. Over the last
decade or so, Muslim women have been undergoing some profound
cultural changes. Some of these are very welcome and some are not.
Pertaining to breast health,
statistics show that Muslim
women are gaining weight,
marrying later and having
fewer children. Basically, they
are aligning with western
women in ways that they feel
may be liberating but are negative benefits concerning breast health.
To give an example, in the 1970s Morocco’s mean birth rate was
about 7.4 children. Today, the country has gone through a drastic
change in birth rate to about 2.4 children, almost in line with the
West, which is around 1.9-2.1 children per family. Definitely, a drastic
reduction of the amount of children a woman will bear in a short
period of biological time. This along with noted and dramatic female
weight gain due to dietary changes, and the last discerning factor of
increased alcohol and tobacco use amongst Moroccan women are
creating a scenario of increased incidence of breast cancer. This is
not a phenomena found only in Morocco, across the Muslim world
many of these changes are taking place. Smoking a hookah pipe or
cigarettes, drinking alcohol in bars and other “western” behaviors
were seemingly unheard of for Muslim women just a few decades
ago. Now, whether in the western world or a Muslim country,
women are choosing to exercise more independence and adopt some
of these behaviours. Unfortunately, when examining their western
sisters who went through this in the 1960s one can see that by the
1980s, and beyond, increased health problems were realized due to
these behaviours. Seemingly, Muslim women will be wise to study
the effects these choices have had on their counterparts and decide
which are worthy of adopting in order to maintain a healthy and
balanced body.
Moreover, while there are many beneficial aspects for breast health
for Muslim followers there are also a few that are detrimental to
the diagnosis of the disease. These cultural and religious behaviors
increase the likelihood that a Muslim women will be diagnosed at a
later stage of the disease, thereby increasing their likelihood of not
SPECIAL FEATURE
surviving. While modesty is part of the religion when it comes to
breast self examination there should be no second thoughts. This is
an important tool women can use to spot problem areas early on.
There is nothing sexual nor inappropriate about the self-exam and it
should be performed monthly. Unfortunately, because sexual activity
before marriage is not allowed, many young Muslim women do not
ever get examined by a gynecologist before they are married. This
visit is important to the health of every woman, sexually active or
not. At this visit the nurse will show you how to perform the selfexam and what to look for and notice as you are doing it. As well,
hygiene and other important factors will be discussed. This is not a
time to be shy, ask questions and remember that by protecting your
health you are ensuring the health of your future children. Another
commonly perceived notion is that women who are past menopause
do not get female cancers and do not need to go for annual checkups
to the gynecologist. This is not true and all women should see a
gynecologist, and if over the age of 35 have regular mammograms,
once a year to assess their overall health and well-being. By doing
this, disease can be caught early and treated before it becomes wide
spread and less responsive to treatments.
Culturally, many Muslim women believe that a diagnosis of a female
cancer can be a social death for them. If they are not able to take
care of extended family members or have their own family they fear
divorce from their spouses. It has also been noted that Muslim women
are adverse to mastectomies and other preventative treatments for
cancer, feeling that if it is the will of God that they get cancer then
God will take care of them. Also, feeling that by allowing procedures
to avoid cancers, such as hysterectomies or mastectomies, they
are disfiguring themselves and going against God’s will for them.
Other cultural stigmas may include avoiding a physician if it is a
male, feeling pressure within the family to take care of others more
then themselves, etc. These are all issues that have to be identified
and understood if they are to change. Once diagnosed with cancer
Muslim women can face many challenges in that she may not drive,
may not be in control of finances or make her own health decisions.
These factors may greatly impact her ability to survive the disease.
All in all, Muslim women have done well to protect themselves from
the disease. Now it is time to become educated so that if at risk, or
already diagnosed, you have the tools and understanding to make
some of the most important decisions of your life.
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SINGH STREET STYLE
A Totally New Kind of Fashion Blog
T
By: Liz Guber
hese days it seems one word best describes the current
state of fashion blogging –oversaturated. Millions are logging on,
writing their unfiltered (and often uninformed) opinions and
hitting the “Publish” button. For every Tavi or Blonde Salad there
are thousands more vying for the freebies, Fashion Week invites and
brand collaborations that come with being at the top of this fickle
industry. To stand out one must find a niche. Beyond being unique,
it’s also crucial to remain true to one’s brand. Singh Street Style, a
men’s fashion blog out of London, is the latest online effort to come
to the foreground, grabbing global attention for its one-of-a-kind
approach to style.
Founder Pardeep Singh Bahra grew up getting the wrong kind
of attention; his turban made him feel like an outsider in his
home county of Essex. Looking beyond the streets of his city,
Bahra noticed a distinct lack of stylish turbaned men depicted in
mainstream fashion media. Seeking to change the turban from an
often-misunderstood religious garment into something modern and
stylish, Bahra started Singh Street Style.
Those depicted on the blog are often people Bahra encounters on
the street, intrigued by the way they style their turban, he tells them
about his online venture and asks to photograph them. Most are
happy to participate. The outfits captured on the blog are interesting
enough from the shoulders down, often featuring the latest finds
from Topman. But the turban—often styled to match a pair of
brightly coloured socks or trousers—takes the looks to a new level.
In this way Bahra’s blog evokes the early days of streetstyle
photography, depicting everyday stylish
people, rather than the peacocking elite at
Fashion Week. Since its inception back in
April, Singh Street Style has become a small
haven for quirky men’s style on the Internet,
and one of the last vestiges of unfiltered and
authentic fashion in the blogosphere. It also
establishes Sikhs as some of the best dressers
around.
Bahra’s own outfits appear frequently on
Singh Street Style. His formula for dapper
dressing goes something like this: a fitted
blazer or cardigan paired with a coloured
trouser (cuffed at the ankles, of course),
accented with bright socks and slight
pout. The finishing touch—the turban—is
often brightly coloured to complement the
overall look. It is a playful, yet sophisticated
approach, and it works.
Bahra, who started taking photos at 17, is
hoping to parlay his blog into professional
styling and photography opportunities.
As his blog continues to be a daily dose of
inspiration to thousands of readers, we’re
certain that opportunity will come knocking
very soon.
Check out the blog at:
www.singhstreetstyle.com
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2
1
3
4
6
5
7
8
9
10
1
MYKITA Sunglasses $400
2
BILLY REID Jersey polo $78
3
KOLOR Silk blend button down shirt $540
4
OLIVER SPENCER Cotton jacket $430
5
RAG & BONE Cardigan $290
6
DOLCE & GABBANA T-shirt $380
7
UNIFORM WARES Steel watch $270
8
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Slim fit jeans $525
9
CASTANER Espadrilles $175
10
BALENCIAGA Cotton jeans $610
11
NEIGHBORHOOD Wool Jacket $530
12
SLOWEAR Sweater $265
13
JUNYA WATANABE Trench coat $810
14
PIERRE HARDY iPad Case $200
15
HARTFORD Chinos $180
16
GIANVITTO ROSSI High tops $620
17
UNIFORM WARES Watch $785
18
MULBERRY Weekend bag $2,050
13
11
12
weekend
WARRIOR
15
14
Grab your overnight bag and pack it with these
weekender essentials. Comfortable fits and fabrics
makes these finds perfect staples in a man’s
wardrobe. For an update on an overnight bag,
try a backpack like the Givenchy Doberman Print
one featured. The Hartford Chinos and Rag&Bone
cardigan are the ultimate in comfort, even your
girlfriend will want to borrow them!
17
18
16
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Brunch at
Weslodge Saloon
A
s you walk down Toronto’s King Street West,
Weslodge is impossible to miss. With its
towering bright yellow doors and flashing
sign, the restaurant isn’t shy about announcing
its presence on one of the city’s most happening streets.
A part of Charles Khabouth’s entertainment empire,
the hunting lodge themed restaurant executes its theme
perfectly. If you’re not a fan of taxidermy, it might be best
to stay away as the two-story space is filled with the heads
of almost every species of wild game found in North
America. Bartenders wear gun slings, their hair slicked
with pomade.
Choosing to avoid the bustling après dinner crowd, I
opted instead to pop by for Sunday brunch. The warm
décor of Weslodge made for the perfect winter weather
escape, and after one glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice,
I was ready to partake in the quintessentially Toronto
tradition of brunch.
There’s no denying that other cities take their weekend
brunch seriously, but Toronto seems to take it to another
level. Ask two people what is the best Eggs Benedict in the
city and you’re bound to spark a heated debate of East end
versus West, of a trendy new place versus a kitschy mom
and pop establishment. Looking around the crowded first
floor space at Wesldoge, it seems that I may have found a
worthy contender.
The Eggs Benedict at Weslodge were served with smoked
trout—a refreshing take on the classic brunch staple.
This fundamental of brunch cuisine did not disappoint.
The tower of poached eggs and hollandaise sauce was
By Liz Guber
beautifully presented on a bed of arugula and other
greens in a refreshing citrus dressing.
My brunch companion ordered asparagus served with
homemade phyllo pastry and truffle oil scrambled eggs. I
was somewhat envious of her selection, and rightfully so
as the truffle eggs were rich and flavourful complemented
the crisp asparagus and buttery pastry. The best part
however, was the herb-infused ricotta that topped the
dish.
Weslodge is certainly worthy of mention in a discussion
of Toronto’s best brunch spots. With their unique décor,
artful approach to food and fabulous location, it’s only
a matter of time before a long line up becomes a regular
sight beside those yellow doors.
There’s no denying that other cities take
their weekend brunch seriously, but
Toronto seems to take it to another level.
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Online Dating is
Dead and it’s all
Tinder’s Fault
O
By Priya Kumar
nline dating is so ten years ago. There was nothing
more awkward than sitting down to a re-run of Friends back in 2005,
only to be bombarded by ads for Lavalife and eHarmony. While
social networking grew alongside the Internet, there seemed to be
a stigma associated with going online in search of true love. What
were the implications of being a member of an online dating social
network? Did it represent the inability to make connections in real
life? Or the fact that one was so unlovable that the Internet was their
only recourse to making new friends? There was a very memorable
scene in the Jennifer Love Hewitt teen flick Can’t Hardly Wait
(1998) that depicts two nerds hashing out a plan to embarrass a few
cool kids at a end-of-year grad party. One asks the other about his
girlfriend’s upcoming visit that weekend to which the other explains
her cancellation: “She has some photo-shoot in Fiji for a catalog or
something like that…That’s just the price you pay for dating Christy
Turlington.” The scene not only highlighted the naivety of the two
social outcasts skulking behind the hedges at a party they were not
invited to but also the general attitude in the late ‘90s towards online
dating. It was for the weak and pathetic that are not invited to cool
parties with fabulous people to begin with.
To this day this notion is only further reinforced by the tedious and
time-consuming membership survey singles are made to fill out
upon joining one of these networks. For today’s twenty-somethings
taking the time to answer questions about what they value in life
(when most don’t even know what they’re eating for lunch that day)
to feed into the refined matchmaking algorithms these dating sites
boast of, complicates what in the real world is a simple process. Boy
sees girl, asks girl out, connection is made. Or not. Considering
the surge of smartphone use in the past five years, simplifying the
online version of this became necessary to suit the lives of presentday singles. Then came Tinder.
While I was on vacation last year, an old school friend who is
now based in the States, told me about the app. Her best friend
in New York City discovered it and couldn’t get over how easy it
was to meet people. The
success of Tinder is in
the simplicity of the app.
It gives users a series
of photos of the gender
they’re interested in,
displays all mutual friends
and interests (based on what it finds on Facebook) and lets users
know their proximity to their match. Similar to the archaic website
“Hot or Not,” users swipe left for “no” and right for “yes”. The
hundreds of profiles users are able to go through result in multiple
matches. Once a match is made, the lines of communication are
opened.
Justin Mateen, co-founder of Tinder describes the app as fulfilling
a basic human need: “As humans we have this innate need and
desire to meet people,” he explains. “In the past, social networks
were concerned with connecting you with distant members of
your network of friends. Tinder is all about connecting you with
new people. And we find that valuable, especially because we’re
constantly running around and don’t have time to slow down and
meet people.”
After speaking to several close friends across the world that are
regularly active on the app, they all agreed on a few things. One
said, “It’s not unlike walking to a bar or club and seeing a girl you
like. In the real world you may be too shy to go and say hello, but
on Tinder you already know how she feels based on whether or not
you match.” The app moves so quickly that in the situation you do
not match with a particular profile, it’s forgotten almost instantly.
Another said, “It’s dating without the letdown of rejection! And
because it’s so simple it feels effortless as opposed to desperate.”
It’s not only for the casual dater. A close South Asian girlfriend
of mine who never saw herself using an online platform to find a
match was thrilled with the results saying, “Life today is just too
Five Guys
to Avoid on
1.)The South Asian fetishist
He’s not South Asian. You are. He seems
to know more about Bollywood, South
Asian wedding customs and travelling
India than you do. He knows exactly
what it is your parents are looking for in
a future son-in-law and successfully plays
up all those qualities. But be warned, he
is into your type and not you—yet. Take
it slow.
2.) The hotshot financier with his
smartphone(s) glued to his hand
busy to meet new people. Sitting down and
flipping through Tinder on one evening
will produce far more real-life dates than
making awkward small talk at a mixer
every night of the week.”
There are a few basic rules to using Tinder.
Firstly, the app itself suggests not sharing
contact info and meeting until you’ve
properly had the chance to interact and
speak over the phone. Secondly, along
those same lines, it’s also important to
ensure you and your date want the same
things. If he’s looking for a long-term
relationship that may become marriage
one day while you’re looking for a date to
your office Valentine’s Day party, someone
is going to end up hurt and confused.
Finally, it’s important to remember that
Tinder is only a tool to help you meet new
people. Every date you go on is a gateway
to a new world of potential friends and
acquaintances, so if you don’t see a spark
with one particular match, it won’t hurt to
open your social circles up to one another.
You may not have seen any chemistry with
that cute, but a little shy for your taste tech
entrepreneur, but your best friend might
see the love of her life in him.
We find work on LinkedIn, re-connect
with distant relatives on Ancestry.com
and stay in the loop with current friends
via Facebook. Tinder’s USP is clearly
different; “It started with the realization
that there are many apps that connect us
with people we already know, but none
that do a great job of helping us meet new
people,” explains Tinder’s homepage.
Creating connections that would not have
otherwise existed seems simple, but prior
to our whole digital worlds being available
in the palm of our hand, such a notion
would have been impossible in the past.
“The whole Tinder experience is designed
to be familiar and emulate the way we
interact in real life—digitally reproduced,
enhanced, and made mobile.” Tinder is so
popular these days it’s become a verb (i.e.
Let’s Tinder and compare our matches).
The last time that happened to a social
networking site the world witnessed the
most highly anticipated IPO of all time, a
blockbuster Oscar-nominated film based
on its founder and a user base of over one
billion users worldwide. The Business
Insider is much less subtle in saying,
“We’ve heard extremely bullish investors
describe [Tinder] as the next Facebook.”
His phones (cringe) are on display on
your dinner table. He checks them
individually after every vibration (double
cringe). Although he may be very busy
and important, you can’t help but wonder
how many of those vibrations are from
Tinder.
3.) The aloof charmer
He’s the perfect first date. Wellread, cultured and knows exactly
how to charismatically handle those
awkward lulls in conversation. He even
chivalrously picks up the check at the end
of evening. Then he makes the mistake of
asking about your cat when you told him
three dates ago you have a dog. Watch
him get out of that awkward silence.
4.) The deceptively short guy
But he looked so brawny in his photos.
There’s no way around this one.
#tinderfail
5.) The self-deprecating comedian
He knows how to tell a good joke. He’ll
keep you in stiches the whole evening
until he sees your interest wane or
exhaustion set in from a long workday.
He’ll take it hard and maybe take a few
shots at you in the process. Run. Fast.
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SHE DEBATES:
HIJABSin SOCIETY
By Kaitlynn E-A Smith
H
ijabs have been the subject of controversy in society for
many years. All over the world, governments have enacted laws to
allow or ban the religious veil worn by Muslim women.
with their uniform. The Scotland Yard incorporated the turban in
uniform several years ago, but have now followed suit to include a
hijab option.
The hijab comes under the most scrutiny in the professional realm.
Governmental employees are regulated by law in regards to what can
and cannot be worn as they reflect the values of the area, province
and country.
Now in Canada, the Edmonton police service is revealing a
prototype veil for women to wear under the standard police cap.
The shifting opinions and regulations of religious headgear have
made for countless newsworthy headlines over the past decade.
The latest headlines tout the government divisions and private
companies that began advertising new incentives to recruit hijabwearing women.
The metropolitan police in central London, England were the
first predominantly Caucasian country to introduce a head cover
designed especially for Sikh men and Muslim women to wear
Unlike a traditional hijab, it is to be affixed with tear-away snaps,
and designed so as not to obstruct an officer’s vision, or even
breathing, during a struggle or other dramatic situation. It is being
tested by the force’s tactical training unit, though a final version has
not yet been released, said Leila Daoud, a civilian spokesperson for
the force.
City councillor Scott McKeen calls it a “gesture of inclusion” toward
immigrants who can feel nervous about Islamaphobia especially
when finding gainful employment. The city of Edmonton is proud of
this inclusive step for their province and reflecting its immigration
SHE DEBATES
policies. When analyzing Canada’s stance on
hijabs, not every province shares the same views as
Alberta.
The company seeks to communicate a positive message
and respect to the fundamental value the brand
embodies-freedom.
The Parti Quebecois has proposed a charter to ban
hijabs worn by Quebec’s public employees. It also
includes any visible religious symbols including
turbans, yarmulkes and large crucifixes.
In Whitby, Ontario, Lakeridge Health posted a
recruitment ad on social media — the image
is a smiling woman wearing a hijab and
white lab coat. The advertisement reads,
“We don’t care what’s on your head. We
care what’s in it.”
In an interview with The Canadian Press
in 2007, Prime Minister Stephen Harper
rejected the notion that Canada is facing
a crisis involving newcomers who do not
accept the nation’s values.
“I know there’s a popularly expressed
view that immigrants come
here and they should change to
suit the country. I think they
overwhelmingly do,” Harper
said. “But I think the fact is our
country also consciously changes
somewhat for new immigrants and
new cultures, and I think that’s a successful
model. I think if you look around the world
for issues of immigration and cultural
integration, Canada is as successful as any
other country in this regard.” But Harper’s
government has also prohibited Muslim
women from covering their faces while
taking the oath of citizenship, a move that
garnered support from certain Muslim-Canadian groups.
“Isolating and separating a group of Canadians or allowing that
group to hide their faces while they are becoming members of
our community is completely counter to Canada’s commitment
to openness and social cohesion,” said Jason Kenney the Minister
of Employment and Social Development and Minister for
Multiculturalism.
Kenney also added, “It’s no secret that we’ve seen instances of
culturally rooted abuse of women, so-called ‘honour killings,’ forced
marriages, and spousal abuse, and even female genital mutilation.
We want to make sure that people understand that multiculturalism
doesn’t create an excuse to engage in those barbaric cultural
practices.”
Yet it would seem that some companies don’t share Kenney’s views.
In a hugely forward thinking move Harley-Davidson launched a
new ad campaign on billboards and in newspapers in Quebec. The
photo features a woman’s face split in two, half wearing a hijab
wearing with a darker complexion and half blonde and blue-eyed
with a helmet on. The text translated to English reads: “To each his
own religion.”
According to Lakeridge Health CEO
Kevin Empey, the ad is an attempt
to raise the facility’s profile which is
relatively unknown among healthcare professionals—despite being one
of the largest community hospitals
in Ontario with four hospitals in
Durham Region.
There are 240 vacant positions,
including nurses and pediatricians
after the hospital recently opened a
new building. Empey remarks, “Part of
recruiting people is make people aware of
what you are, we thought this controversy
in Quebec might give us an opportunity
to target one community. It might help
recruiting in Ontario as much as Montreal.”
Democratic countries around the world have faced similar
divisive issues on religious appearances. In Sweden for example,
the country is split as a grassroots movement defending women’s
rights to wear a hijab is backed by politicians and celebrities. But
critics say it supports a symbol of female oppression. A pregnant
woman attacked outside of Stockholm for wearing the veil, sparked
a nationwide outrage. She was hospitalized for a concussion after
having her head slammed into a car and passing out. No arrests
were made in the incident but police confirmed the incident was a
hate crime motivated by the woman’s faith and dress.
In April 2011, French law was constitutionally cleared for banning
the wearing of full-face covering, including but not limited to
burqas and niqābs, in public. The model of republican assimilation
forces immigrants to leave their origins behind and adopt French
culture.
The federal government of Canada is threatening to intervene if
Quebec’s law of “societal values” passes.
How far does a multicultural, modern country like Canada need to
come to provide fair and equal treatment to its people? The fight to
keep the country a cultural mosaic is ongoing where every citizen
can get involved and have their say for what is right.
SHE CANADA
73
SHE CARES
he economic situation in the Palestinian West
Bank is becoming desperate. Due to the political
situation in the region, economic activities are
at an all-time low and unemployment is on the
rise. Even people who are employed suffer as
their employers, notably the Palestinian National
Authority, are unable to pay their salaries. It
is estimated that presently 65 percent of the
population in the West Bank lives in poverty. This means hidden
starvation, especially for families who already were poor before the
current economic recession and do not have reserves to fall back on.
Families headed by a woman and without a male breadwinner, the
sick and the elderly are hit hardest. Most Palestinian families are
large. In some regions, the average family comprises no less than nine
members, most of them children of school age, who all rely on a sole
breadwinner.
nutrients to grow and develop healthily. A family who has a sack of
rice will be able to spend its daily cash supply on other food items and
will thus eat sufficiently and have a more balanced diet.
Humanitarian Relief Society (HRS), a Palestinian humanitarian
organization active in the West Bank, especially in Arroub refugee
camp, therefore proposes to distribute a 20-kg sack of rice to 350
extremely poor families. Rice is the main staple of the Palestinian
diet and is eaten for lunch and frequently dinner. Most families
cannot afford to purchase a sack of rice and resort to buying small
quantities on a daily basis. Little money remains to purchase other
ingredients of a nutritious meal, for example vegetables, cooking oil
and meat. Eating only or mainly carbohydrates leads to malnutrition
in the long run, especially among children, who need all kinds of
TO DONATE OR GET INVOLVED CONTACT:
A sack of rice will enable family providers to adequately feed their
families for a month or more. Assuming an average family size of
seven, which is a conservative estimate in Palestine, 2,450 people will
benefit from this project, at least two thirds of them children. A mere
four Euro are sufficient to improve a person’s nutrition for a whole
month.
Dear LFT donors: When you sit down for your daily meals, think of
those who look at an empty table and have to go to bed hungry. By
giving a small part of what you spend on food every month, you can
significantly improve their lives.
September Lodge, Village Way,
Little Chalfont
Buckinghamshire
HP7 9PU
[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0) 1494 762 063
Fax: +44 (0) 1494 762 286
Mob: +44 (0) 7798 761 020 / +44 (0) 7798 769 030
SHE CARES
The Lady Fatemah Charitable Trust is one of the first charities to use its own unique
text code, LFCT14, to raise funds by using JustTextGiving, a service available to
Vodafone subscribers internationally.
In the spirit of the LFT, this is a new service which has no set up or associated costs for
the LFT and every penny donated via text goes directly to the LFT. Once your donation
has gone through, you can also add Gift Aid to the donation, which we recommend as
it gives us an extra 25% on your donation.
For more success stories and information about how to donate, please visit:
http://www.ladyfatemahtrust.org/
SHE CANADA
75
how to
STAY HEALTHY
By Liz Guber
during cold season
S
pring is nearly here, but you’re not out of the woods
yet. ten-twenty five percent of the Canadian population will
contract the flu this winter, and although it seems as thought
the snow is melting and layers of sweaters are coming off, we
still stand a higher than usual chance of getting sick this time
of year. Everyone is well aware that frequent hand washing
is one of the best ways to fight off germs, but we’ve gathered
some other tips to help you make to Spring cold-free.
1
Exercise, exercise, exercise!
Staying fit and active will not only get you beach ready
come summer, it will also help fight off the flu. Every
time you jog, walk or do cardio you’re boosting your
body’s immunity—the natural defense against viruses.
2
3
Eat right
A well-nourished immune system is better able to fight
off a virus. Vitamins and antioxidants found in dark
green, yellow and red fruits and vegetables are key.
Get plenty of sleep and reduce stress
Stress impairs the immune system and a lack of sleep
can make you susceptible to catching a virus. Adults
require seven to eight hours of sleep a night.
4
Drink lots of water
Increasing your water intake will help you stay healthy and lessen
the chance of you coming down with flu. When you are feeling
under the weather, drinking extra fluids prevents dehydration
caused by fever, loosens mucus, and keeps your throat moist.
Warm liquids are preferable, and there is some evidence that
inhaling steam early in the course of a cold or flu may reduce the
spread of viruses in your upper respiratory tract.
5
Try a Home Remedy
There are lots of Vitamin C supplements
and other immune system boosters
readily available on drugstore shelves.
Why not try a natural product to keep
colds at bay? Oregano oil has long been
considered a secret weapon against colds
and flu because of its natual anti-viral
and anti-fungal properties. Sore throat?
Try adding red pepper flakes, lemon
juice and honey to hot water for a brew
that’s surpisingly soothing.
By following these simple steps, you
can fight off the flu and start the Spring
season feeling your very best!
SHE CANADA
77
HEALTH & WELLNESS
spring forward to your
SUMMER BODY
By Sam Trotta
Sam Trotta, RTSM, MATCS is the Co-Founder of
Striation 6, an exercise consultancy firm in Toronto. He
was the 65th person globally to attain the distinguished
dual designation of Mastery Level Resistance Training
Specialist and Muscle Activation Techniques Certified
Specialist. He has been a personal trainer and manual
treatment specialist in Toronto for 12 years.
I
like to have only fond memories of holiday meals.
For as many family squabbles and kitchen mishaps as may
occur around my family’s festive dinner table, I have far more
recollections of laughter, family and friends.
Every body,
no matter what
it looks like,
is beach-ready
so long as
the person it
belongs to feels
that is so.
Another type of memory—a less pleasant type—tends to
accumulate over the holiday season. And, unfortunately, it is
the type of memory that lasts far too long. Memories of holidays
desserts, dinners and drinks can linger for months or even years
on our tummies, faces and rear-ends alike.
If you have put on some excess weight over this past holiday
season, rest assured that you are not the first person to have done
so. It is a very common occurrence. But, now it’s Spring and
beach season is around the corner. If you’re anything like me,
you may be thinking about whether or not the physique you’re
currently sporting is beach-ready.
Clarification: every body, no matter what it looks like, is beachready so long as the person it belongs to feels that is so. However,
if you are not one of those people, the approaching beach season
can bring on anxiety, pain and even avoidance of what would
otherwise be fun summer times by the beach and poolside.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
First things first:
• Try your best to be accepting and at peace with the way
your body looks right now. Self-loathing thoughts and
feelings will only prolong the time it takes to make any
desired changes to your physique in time for the summer.
Self-acceptance, however, will only work towards the
positive results that you are craving.
•There is nothing written anywhere that says you NEED
to make any changes to your appearance to go to the
beach. I am only addressing this topic as it seems to be a
major concern amongst my clients and people I generally
meet through the fitness industry. That said, if you have
put on some weight over the winter through overeating
or under-exercising, then do take my points here under
consideration in an effort to improve your health and
lifestyle for the future. Any physical improvements that
you experience will be a bonus.
In order to achieve your summer physique, the most
important thing that you should do is act. Now. Not later;
not tomorrow; not after you get back from Spring Break.
Now. Next, make an appointment with a nutritionist in
order to get back on track with your eating habits. This is
fundamental and, to be quite honest, far more important
than your exercise routine when it comes to physique-based
exercise goals. No matter what anyone tells you, they are
simply lying if they try to make you believe that any exercise
program of system can win over poor nutrition (it is, in
fact, my love and affinity for the art and science of exercise
that has helped lead me to this conclusion). Your food is
paramount to your weight and fat-loss goals. Personally, my
greatest success in this area has been in consulting with a
Registered Holistic Nutritionist that also has a background
in physique-based training.
Next, you must begin to exercise. Specifically, your focus
must be on building muscle in order to create lasting
changes to your physique. An increase in your muscular
density will increase your natural caloric metabolism
and, in turn, create a machine that burns fat all day long
(provided that your nutrition is in check). Ladies: you
will not become “bulky” in efforts to add muscle to your
physique. “Bulk” takes significant efforts through nutrition
and supplementation in order to achieve. That women
undertaking muscle-building efforts will become oversized
and “look like men” is simply a lie.
As always, I would encourage you to undertake the advice
of a personal trainer in your exercise efforts, particularly
if you have never exercised before, and especially if you
have had trouble adhering to exercise routines in the past.
Find a trainer who understands your goals, and one that is
sensitive to your emotional needs as a client. A good trainer,
more than anything, is client-focused and should be able to
adapt to your needs in order to facilitate your progress.
Achieving your summer beach body shouldn’t be an
intimidating prospect. Above all else, take action now.
Procrastinating will only lead to increased anxiety. Lastly,
shift your lifestyle, permanently, towards deliberately
healthy food choices and effective exercise. Then, next year,
you will be able to enjoy holiday feasts and your summer
beach body with balance, acceptance and ease.
SHE CANADA
79
SHE PARENTS
3
4
1
2
6
Peonies
and Pink
5
7
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, floral
pink clothing and accessories will get
your darling ready for springtime before
the flowers bloom. Fill her closet with
clothing in a plethora of blossoming prints
in every shade of pink from blossoming
rose to delicate tulip and every bouquet in
between!
8
9
1
RICHMOND JR Pleated Dress $405
2
MONNALISA Floral coat $265
3
SIMONETTA Floral dress $250
4
DARCY BROWN Cotton Nightie $45
5
MONNALISA Tulle skirt $180
6
RORO Headband $50
7
MISS BLUMARINE Pleated skirt $215
8
GREVI Bag $115
9
ROBERTO CAVALLI Floral boots $225
10 DOLCE & GABBANA Floral top $145
10
SHE PARENTS
1
3
2
5
4
Ahoy Matey!
6
With spring on the horizon, nothing
says sunny weather better than a
sailor boy. We searched the seven
seas for the cutest boy’s clothing
trends and stripes are on trend.
Deck your little man out in navy
blue, white and red. Don’t forget
a jacket for when the seas turn
stormy, we love the bright yellow
raincoat from Hatley!
7
9
8
1
ARCHIMEDE Sailor top $65
2
ARMATA DI MARE Anchor sweater $89
3
ARMATA DI MARE T-shirt $45
4
ANCAR Suit $75
5
MITTY JAMES Swimming shorts $23
6
HATLEY Raincoat $70
7
ARMATA DI MARE Cardigan $80
8
GF FERRE Deck shoes $200
9
TOMMY HILFIGER Striped polo $55
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Inside the
SAMBADROME
By Robin Esrock
I
n the world of spectacles, it doesn’t come any bigger,
brighter, and hotter than Rio de Janeiro’s annual Carnaval.
Each February, over 700,000 tourists will invade the city,
crowding the beaches, literally dancing in the streets of
Copacabana and Ipanema. Bloco parties sprout up all over the
city, open to all, banging their way through neighbourhoods
with drums and dancing. The summer energy crackles
in an already frenetic city, and at the heart of it all is the
Sambadrome. 60 000 people will cram into the cement stands
and private booths of this 700m long stadium, watching
thousands more celebrate with lavish costumes and jaw
dropping floats. Some will be there for the show, some for the
party, but as the fireworks explode into the early morning,
nobody goes home disappointed.
My Brazilian wife Ana is telling me to get some rest. Tonight
is the opening night in the Sambadrome, and we can expect
to get home at around 7am. Having grown up in Copacabana,
Ana is well familiar with the annual madness of Carnaval.
The heat, crowds and music may be exhausting, but this is the
month every Brazilian lives for.
As I prepare for the evening ahead, Ana explains how each
samba school represents a community across the social and
economic spectrum. Up to 4000 members perform for each
school, as part of an overall theme. Each member pays a
costume fee, with choice positions priced accordingly. It
might cost a $50 to walk on the floor, or thousands for a
marquee spot atop a float. Incredibly, the average school
up to $150 depending on your view of the action. Six-seat open
booths cost around $2500 per night, while camarotes , which
accommodate dozens and include drinks and food, reach up to
$40,000 per night. Security is tight. Each camarote hands out
special designed shirts that must be worn at all times, along with
ID cards. As is the custom, we use scissors to redesign our shirts
into something more fashionable. Even in uniform, everyone gets
to be unique.
spends around $3.5 million each year on its parade. I had no idea
that Carnaval is a self-sustaining industry, employing thousands of
people to make it all possible. With twelve samba schools parading
over two nights, I am ready to experience what kind of party $42
million dollars can buy.
We are invited to a camarote, one of the private booths that
overlook the parade street. The spectrum of Rio’s socio-economic
life is reflected in the event’s ticket prices. The low income sections,
open to people from favelas, are reserved at around $7 a seat. In
the stands, the average ticket price is about $70, although can go
Once we pass through multiple levels of security, the atmosphere is
one of a frenzied major sporting event: crowds, vendors, programs,
announcements on loudspeakers. Judging booths lined the parade
street, ready to award points for themes, costumes, floats, music,
and performances. The winner of this competition achieves
national acclaim, along with high-paying sponsors and members.
The final voting is televised around the country, with the winning
samba school entering into the pantheon of Carnaval greats.
A massive round of fireworks signals the first school is entering
the street. They have just 82 minutes to get to the end of the
street, crossing the iconic arches of the Sambadrome or face point
penalties. Having been to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, I figure I’d
know what to expect. Oh no, this is something else entirely.
It is pure scale. Floats up to ten stories high, with dancers shaking
their bodies on the top — no ropes or safety nets. Sequins and
feathers by the millions. An army of drummers. Animated
SHE CANADA
83
animals, giant legends of literature, a huge glowing robot shaking
its head. Each float outdoes the rest, and they keep coming, up to a
dozen per school. Interspersed are hundreds of people in costume,
singing and shouting and most noticeably laughing, having the
time of their lives. Providing the rhythm is the batteria, the drum
corps, pounding the signature Samba beat with a chorus singing
over the top. The school’s song is repeated until the very end, so
that everyone knows the lyrics, and all 60,000 people are joining
in. The Queen of the Batterias are Brazilian goddesses, flashing
their muscular bodies, vibrating on their stilettos, blowing kisses
and smiles as the crowds cheer and the media fawn. I am covered
in sweat from dancing, exhausted from the eye candy, and amazed
there are still 11 more schools to come. Amongst them Beija-Flor,
Portela, Salgueiro, Villa Isabel, Imperatiz, and Ana’s favourite
Mangueira. “They don’t have the most money, just the most heart.”
Madonna is in attendance, as is actor Gerald Butler. Earlier that
week we had bumped into French actor Vincent Cassel at the
prestigious Copacabana Black Tie Ball, one of several annual balls
that take place throughout the city. Back in the Sambadrome,
dozens of Brazilian media celebrities are parading on floats. I look
over to see Paris Hilton taking photos from the next camarote, for
once not the centre of attention. She even wears the appropriate
camarote shirt, although it did look professionally customized.
Some of the schools are circuses, with trapeze acts and stunts.
Some of them use floats and costumes to recount great moments in
Brazilian history. The Portela school focuses on technology, while
Imperatiz pays homage to every religion. Every year, the themes
and costumes change, with two schools demoted, and two schools
promoted to the big time. Several years ago, a fire destroyed the
warehouses of three top schools, just weeks before Carnaval at a
cost of millions. Grande Rio lost 3000 costumes alone, and the
hard work of over 7000 people. Organizers quickly announced there
would be no schools demoted that year, and with the assistance of
sponsors, government, and other schools, Grande Rio still managed
to compete. The heart of Carnaval, with all its colour and excess, is
still the gathering and support of its communities.
Forty eight hours later, my nerve sockets have blown. Too
much stimulation, too much drumbeat. I could now judge the
performance of the dancers, and debate the merits of the themes.
Later that week, I sat with my in-laws riveted to the TV set as results
were being announced. Brazilians see parading in the Sambadrome
as a sport, in a nation where sport is religion. I can only imagine
the atmosphere of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and the 2016 Summer
Olympic Games. Rio de Janeiro certainly knows how to stage a
party.
Robin Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucket
List, and the host of the OLN/City TV series Word Travels. You can
find him at www.robinesrock.com
ON THE ROAD
BARE
LOVE
BEAUTY
By Emily Durham
B
are Love Beauty is a purely Canadian beauty brand inspired
by simplistic luxury and eco-friendly radiance. Bare Love Beauty is
specially formulated from their exclusive OlioLove Technology, a
natural blend of international oils to save women’s skin and hair from
looking tired and dull, especially as the seasons change. Their unique
formula, eco-friendly practices and dedication to women’s beauty sets
them apart from the synthetic and heavy products on the market.
The Founder, Rebecca Cook is both a graduate of the University of
Ottawa and beauty expert. After graduating, Cook worked for multiple
prestigious beauty companies and traveled the world to develop brands
and speak about beauty at trade shows and on television networks. By
combining both her passion for the beauty industry and inspiration
from the use of natural oils in ancient skin and hair care, Cook created
Bare Love Beauty. Bare Love Beauty’s mission is “to naturally support
and promote a woman’s inherent beauty and never allow their most
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Rebecca Cook’s creativity is drawn from,
what she calls, the “simple things in life”
including touch, nature and laughter.
vital organ to age” with naturally derived products. Rebecca Cook’s
creativity is drawn from, what she calls, the “simple things in life”
including touch, nature and laughter. This new and expecting
mother gained a new appreciation for what a woman’s body is
capable of and infused this recognition into her products. “I have
grown to love what our bodies are really capable of, the miracle of
what takes place. It has made me care even more for my skin and
how powerful an organ it really is. My brand has really helped my
own skin and its condition while being pregnant. I was able to use
my product throughout my pregnancy and I must admit, my skin is
in the best condition it has been since I was sixteen, “says Rebecca
Cook about how her two pregnancies have influenced her brand.
The variety of products target everything from lips to hair and prices
range from $18-$58. All of the products are filled with antioxidants,
safflower oil and anti-inflammatory fatty acids to help women glow
from the inside out. The line includes; Bare Love Body ($28), Bare
Love Face ($58) and Bare Love Hair ($28), the new Bare Love Lips
($18) and Bare Love Eyes ($38). The products moisturize without
being oily or greasy to ensure year round radiance by firming and
nourishing the given area. Their exclusive OlioLove formula forms
a protective barrier to lock in moisture and keep the skin feeling
fresh, within twenty-four hours of application unlike the seven-day
process of synthetic beauty products currently on the market. The
products are suitable for all skin types and will not contribute to
oily skin but will help to balance the skin’s condition. In addition to
being effective, the line also feels luxurious with subtle, all natural
and allergy tested scents.
The BareLove Love line is essential not only for the harsh winter
but for a year-round glow as it moisturizes and nourishes without
the synthetic side effects. Their naturally timeless products are
reflective of a genuine dedication to women’s beauty and the health
of women’s hair and skin at all stages of life. BareLove Beauty can be
purchased on www.barelovebeauty.com or in the Canadian stores
and online shops listed on their website, including Terra 20, Green
Beauty and BIRCHBOX.
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SPRING BEAUTY PRODUCT REVIEWS
Estee Lauder Pure Colour Five EyeShadow Palette
$52.00
This elegant palette truly lives up to its name, Posh
Petals, with its subtle, understated purple and beige
tones. These flower-inspired hues are perfect for
welcoming the warmer weather and the travel-sized
package makes beauty-on-the-go simple.
Maybelline The Buffs By Colour
Sensational Lipstick
$9.99
The eight colours in this neutral collection
of smooth lipsticks, revamp the classic
nude lip from modest to daring. The
lipsticks lock in moisture and leave an
opaque nude glow with long-lasting
colour. With shades for every skin tone,
this new collection is a must have!
Rimmel London Apocalips Lip Lacquer
$12.80
The easiest way to put a fun twist on a classic
makeup look is to add a fun lip colour and the
Apocalips lines offers many colours ranging
from daring reds to subtle nudes. The intense
pigmentation lasts all day while maintaining a
plumping shine!
Maybelline Fit Me Anti-Shine
Foundation
Schwarzkopf Pro Styling Heat Protection Spray
$6.99
As much as we love how polished a perfectly
curled ponytail looks or fabulous freshly
straightened hair may be, it is undeniable how
damaging using hot styling tools can be for your
hair. With the pre-styling spray, hair is completely
protected from the heat and leaves hair feeling
healthier and fuller.
$6.99
Applying foundation can easily
become messy and dirty when using
traditional liquid products but
Maybelline’s stick foundation is not
only unbelievably easy but it leaves a
matte finish without drying out the
skin. The shiniest of skin will still
look airbrushed and matte with this
foundation… from day to night!
Maybelline Expertwear EyeShadow Quad
$8.99
Nothing pulls together a look like a sultry smoky
eye. Maybeline’s Expertwear should be is a staple
in every woman’s makeup bag for highlighting and
illuminating the eye. The easy applicator makes it
perfect for blending and is flawlessly rich.
The Body Shop Carbon Eye Definer
$13.50
Not only will you love the rich, vibrant
colours offered in this liner, but the
natural waxes in the product make it
one of the easiest eye applications out
there. The liner comes with a rubber
end to help you blend, smudge and add
some character to your look, just in
time for spring.
OPI Brazil Collection
$8.95
This line is perfect for all of the world travelers
on a budget. These gorgeous, tropically inspired
colours will take you to Brazil with each coat
from the pun-fillled collection. Some of the
colours are named: Taupe-less Beach and Red
Hot Rio, you will surely feel the Brazilian fever.
Olay’s Night of Olay Firming Cream
$6.49
If you are looking to recover your skin from the
harsh weather that is now behind us, this night
cream is just what you need. The light, nongreasy formula helps to tighten skin over night
and helps to restore skin to a naturally, beautiful
state.
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HAIR TRENDS
Amidst all of the wild and daring trends showcased on
the runways for Spring 2014, it was clear that hairstyles
this season would be inspired by the classics: bold
braids and polished ponytails. We hope you chose to
rock an up-do with help from these styling products and
tools to help get your high-fashion hair on.
1
3
2
4
5
6
1
NEXXUS Volumizing shampoo $18.20
2
MARILYN Boar bristle teasing brush $16
3
PAUL MITCHELL Thicken up styling liquid $14.96
4
BIG SEXY HAIR Volumizing gel $16
5
HAIR TIES $5.99
6
JOHN FREIDA Frizz-Ease hairspray $6.80
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BOOK REVIEW
How Luxury
Found its Luster
in the Far East
CRAZY RICH ASIANS BY KEVIN KWAN
Review by Priya Kumar
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan is not just a book with a cute
double-entendre. It’s a (fictional) invitation into the excessively
private lives of the world’s wealthiest South East Asian families.
Based in Singapore, the reader gets to peek through the looking
glass along side Rachel, an ABC (American Born Chinese) professor
who meets her boyfriend’s old-moneyed family for the first time.
The novel opens with Rachel and Nick discussing their upcoming
trip to Singapore and what she should expect in regards to how his
family is “different.” Rachel misses what he’s getting at. Meanwhile
at the opposite end of the café, a college student eavesdrops on their
conversation, shooting a picture of the couple chatting, to her sister
on the other side of the world, informing her of Nick’s upcoming
arrival and his surprise guest. In true Gossip Girl fashion, the news
goes viral, reaching Nick’s mother who so happens to be the center of
Singapore’s elite social circuit.
Upon hearing about her son’s choice of a no-name Chinese girl of
mainland origin, she springs into action to prove to Nick why this
ingénue wants nothing more than his money. And besides, with
Nick’s “perfectly tousled black hair, chiseled Cantonese pop-idol
features, and impossibly thick eyelashes” he can have any elite
Singaporean girl he desires, right?
There are several satellite stories circling this main plot that involves
Nick’s spider web of cousins and childhood companions. This
includes Leo Ming who boasts of a climate controlled closet where
his leather shoes are kept at a temperature 15 degrees above the furs
and cashmeres (aside: Personally I find this no joke. From experience
I understand that Singapore’s climate renders all clothes unused for
only days at a time moldy and smelly. The last thing this poor guy
would want is mold spackled onto his Hermès belt.)
There is also Nick’s cousin Astrid who, to the horror of everyone
around her, married an IT genius that only brings in a quarter of a
million dollars every year. As a result she’s forced to lie about her jaunts
to Paris every fashion week and the number of $100K couture dresses
she acquires—with her own trustfund of course. Having grown up on
yachts surrounded by princes and the sons of business tycoons around
the world, no one expected Astrid to marry solely for love.
Throughout the story, brands are name-dropped like a wad of chewing
gum never could be and not just in the narrative. The dialogues
themselves read like Barney’s stock list. Hilarious and sometimes
offensive elitist generalizations are also peppered throughout the
book with a quote on Stanford, “It’s that school in California for
people who can’t get into Harvard”. The ethics behind the way this
society acts is never touched upon—especially considering Nick’s
fabled grandmother, who owns the largest estate in the whole of
Singapore, has two women in waiting who were “gifts” from the Thai
royal family. But why would Kwan want to ruin the reader’s fun?
Not since The Devil Wears Prada has a chick-lit book gotten this much
attention. And with Asians (of both the South and South East variety)
front and center in pop-culture these days it was only a matter of time
before this genre was tapped in literature. With much talk of a Crazy
Rich movie, there’s no end in sight for the novel that Kwan wrote while
visiting his ailing grandmother in Singapore. Loosely based on his life
growing up in the wealthy South East Asian nation, he felt there was
a story to tell beyond opulently gated entrances to Singapore’s many
compounds. With praise streaming in from Vogue, Vanity Fair and
the New York Times, Kwan has obviously struck a chord with many of
whom can only dream of a life of such excess.
BROWN GIRL PROBLEMS
Brownproblems
Girl
One of my closest girl friends is getting married
this summer and as happy as I am for her, she is
being an extremely difficult bride. She is naturally a
perfectionist and has a specific vision for her big day,
but unfortunately her big day is burning a big hole
in my wallet. Between buying my own bridesmaid
dress, paying for a weekend bachelorette trip to Las
Vegas, gifts, bridal showers and expensive “planning
dinners,” I don’t know how much longer I can afford
to keep up with her. Don’t get me wrong, I expect to
cover some of the costs but a lot of this spending seems
excessive and unnecessary. How do I politely tell her
that she is being queen of the bridezillas without
upsetting her?
bridesmaid. It’ll save a lot of grief in the long run and hopefully your
friendship.
BROKE BRIDESMAID
Just recently I have started seeing a guy I met not too
long ago. Last Friday we went out for dinner and I
had an amazing time…until the bill came. When the
waitress placed the bill in the middle of the table, he
looked around nervously, patted his pockets and told
me that he “must have forgotten his wallet at home.”
I felt really uncomfortable but I told him I would pay
for the dinner. I don’t mind having to pay for dinner,
but he has used countless excuses to avoid paying for
almost all of our outings. I would rather him just be
honest with me instead of lying about his wallet. I
really like him but is this a sign that he is bad news?
Dear Broke Bridesmaid,
Dear Dine and Dash,
Firstly, my sympathies. You’ve been there for your BFF through many of
life’s up and downs and I have no doubt she’s reciprocated. Something
many brides lose sight of when planning the most important day of
their lives is the fact that this one day may not hold the same sentimental
value to those around them. In the bride’s mind, she’ll be there for you
when return the favour when it’s your big day, but the fact of the matter
is some women may have some time to wait until their turn if they
chose to marry at all. There was an episode of Sex and the City called “A
Women’s Right to Shoes” that exemplified this issue. Carrie Bradshaw
has her $485 pair of Manolos stolen at a baby shower after being asked
to remove her shoes before entering the party. After returning to look
for her shoes her (un-)gracious host accuses her of being ridiculous for
spending that kind of money on footwear and offers her only $200.
Then it hits her: “I did a little mental addition and over the years I’ve
bought Kyra an engagement gift, a wedding gift, then there was the
trip to Maine for the wedding, three baby gifts—in total I’ve spent over
$2,300 celebrating her choices. And she’s shaming me for spending a
lousy 485 bucks on myself?”
DINE AND DASH
Is this a sign that he is bad news? End it. Run. Don’t look back.
Regardless of this guy’s cash situation, it’s clear he obviously has no
desire to impress you. One gentleman I know—who’s in a six-year-long
relationship at the moment—will only take his girlfriend out for dinner
when he knows he can afford it. An
evening in the future
is selected, funds are saved and he
shows his lady
a great night out. It’s not about
women
being set back 200 years—it’s
about knowing your value
and allowing yourself to
be with someone that
can see it too.
In this case it’s obvious you’re flattered to be a part of your friend’s
big day and are having a hard time turning down any of the bridal
festivities that go along with being a bridesmaid, but I suggest you
have a word with the bride-to-be about your limited means. The two
of you might devise some ideas about how money can either be raised
for you to participate (through Jack ‘n’ Jill- style parties, where guests
pay for entry, drinks and games) or you can let her know what you’ll
be able to participate in or not (wedding, yes, Vegas bachelorette, no).
Once having had this discussion, if she absolutely cannot empathize
with your position, it may be best to step-down from your role as
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LOVE
“The best and most beautiful things in this
world cannot be seen or even heard, but must
be felt with the heart.”
JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER JR
“To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.”
OSCAR WILDE
“Where there is love there is life.”
MAHATMA GANDHI
“I was born with an enormous need for
affection, and a terrbile need to give it.”
AUDREY HEPBURN
“To be brave is to love unconditionally without expecting anything in return.”
MADONNA
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