The Orchids Will Sing

Noble Savage

2011-04-28T03:07:00.001-04:00

Illustration by Odette Beja

New Banner

2010-12-25T03:09:00.000-05:00

Artist Interview with Daniela Jordan-Villaveces

2010-11-28T19:43:00.006-05:00

I am excited to finally do a post on my friend Daniela. I first met this talented young artist about three years ago in the fitting room of Club Monaco where I was just starting to work at the time. Daniela had just been hired and was trying on her uniform. While chit chatting about our new jobs I learned that she is Colombian and an OCAD student in the print making program...pretty much the coolest. After seeing her art work that was confirmed...I absolutely love her work! Here is a little interview we did to post along with some of her art work, visit Daniela's Blog to see more of her stuff.

Thank You Daniela!

O- How long have you been doing art for?
D- It was always been my favorite thing to do but I guess I got really into it when I moved to the States and all I took were art classes in high school.

O- What inspires you?
D- So many things! I love looking at other people’s art/designs and searching for patterns and ideas wherever I can. A lot of African and Native arts and crafts too.

O- What techniques do you use?
D- I am a drawing cuckoo! I love love love drawing. But I also rely a lot on the computer, Photoshopping is really relaxing and you can watch movies while doing that hahahaha. Finally if I really like one of my drawings, I turn it into a print. I really like screenprinting, etching or using the automatic letterpress Vandercook (♥).

O- Can you explain a little bit about your process?
D- I’m really into bookbinding so a lot of my works are books or small publications. So after drawing, being on the computer for a while, and printing, I make books. They are neat and making them is so amazing!

O- How can someone acquire one of your pieces?
D- danielajordanvillaveces@gmail.com

O- Are there any recent exhibits that you've been a part of that you'd like to mention? and Are you exhibiting your work in the near future?
D- I am creating a small book with a collection of different artists and it’s going to be totally awesome. So far the people that have contributed have given me absolutely great works so I’m really looking forward to showing this book. It’s called Mini Cafeteria and I will be selling it at the OCADU Book Arts Fair on December 4th and other places around Toronto, London, Ottawa and South America.

O- Who's your favorite artist?
D- I have so many! I am a bit of an art nerd so I have about a million favorite artists! Right now I’m really digging Carla Barth, Talita Hoffman, Kill Pixie and Mateo Rivano.

O- What's your favorite album?
D- This past month I’ve been listening to two albums and two albums only so I’m going to say those are it for now; Alegranza! by El Guincho and Visiter by The Dodos.

O- What's the last song you heard?
D- Islands in the Stream at karaoke yesterday hahahahaha.

O- If you were an animal what would you be?
D- Probably a cat!

O- What's an interesting fact about you?
D- I’ve moved about 25 times in my life. I hate moving!

More with Vienna

2010-11-18T22:00:00.000-05:00

Photo by Peter WJ Miller and Odette Beja

Styling by Luis Zulayahka Assisted by Christopher Muller

Hair & MUA Kelly Armstrong

Model Vienna Stampeen (Spot 6 Management)

To see more from this series click here!

Steal Your Face

2010-11-14T22:38:00.001-05:00

another piece i made while playing around with some photoshop techniques and special effects...

Self Portrait

2010-11-08T01:35:00.000-05:00

By Odette Beja

A Walk In The Woods

2010-11-05T18:24:00.001-04:00

Photography by Odette Beja

Styling by Laura Tschernow

Model Kenneth Tschernow @ Ford Models

More on the Designer Portrait Cards!

2010-11-04T16:13:00.000-04:00

Finally took some pictures of the cards...I love them! You will too and... so will the birthday girl/boy receiving them...

Personalized cards and art work also available.

Contact me for Details.

Special thanks to Peter WJ Miller for helping me print them :)

Designer Birthday Cards

2010-11-04T10:46:00.005-04:00

I made little birthday post cards...for sale now!

4.75x6.5 inches (more sizes/styles and personalization available per request).Contact me for more info!

Photo Shoot with Brittany

2010-10-28T16:32:00.000-04:00

Photo & Styling by Odette Beja

Model Brittany Elliott

Jewelry Designs by Rita Tesolin

I Want To Hold Your Hand

2010-10-26T12:44:00.000-04:00

Girl Party

2010-10-25T15:07:00.001-04:00

Digital Illustration by Me.

Keep posted for more from this series!!!

Hannah With a Hat

2010-10-24T20:04:00.000-04:00

I Whip My Hair Back And Forth

2010-10-21T14:32:00.001-04:00

You might recognize the face of this cute and fashionable pop star.

So who is she?

It is not Rhianna and she is definitely not related to Jackson Pollock.

Clue...She had her acting debut in 2007 when she acted along side her father in I Am Legend and won a the Young Artist Award for Best Performance in a Featured Film after her role along side Abigail Breslin in Kit Kittredge: An American Girl.

You guessed right!

It's Nine year old Willow Smith, daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith. She was recently signed to Jay-Z's Roc Nation label and released her first single this fall. Her premier video I Whip My Hair Back And Forth is the newest YouTube sensation and it certainly caught my attention. The song has been stuck in my head all day and all I want to do is whip my hair back and forth...

Photoshoot with Vienna Stampeen

2010-10-17T02:17:00.004-04:00

Photo by Peter WJ Miller and Odette Beja

Styling by Luis Zulayahka Assisted by Christopher Muller

Hair & MUA Kelly Armstrong

Model Vienna Stampeen (Spot 6 Management)

Stay tuned for more from this series!

Photo Shoot with Dayna

2010-10-12T00:14:00.044-04:00

Photo & Styling by Odette Beja

Model Dayna Myles

Jewelry Designs by Rita Tesolin

Brittany and Dayna

2010-10-12T00:07:00.001-04:00

Illustration by Odette Beja, 2010
Special thanks to my beautiful models!

A digital illustration inspired by accessories. Featuring Brittany and Dayna.

You Still Need A Portrait T-Shirt.

2010-10-07T18:00:00.002-04:00

If you haven't ordered a t-shirt and would like to order one these are the 2 designs I'm carrying. They are unisex white cotton Ts from American Apparel. V-necks ($35) and Crew-necks ($30) in Small, Medium, Large. Send me a message on Facebook or email me at odettebeja@rogers.com !!!

Join the facebook group

Hannah & Dayna

2010-09-30T17:18:00.007-04:00

I Want To Be A Viking Queen

2010-09-27T13:59:00.010-04:00

Stay posted for more illustrations from this series.

INSIGHT

2010-09-13T22:42:00.021-04:00

Photography by Andoni & Arantxa // Styling by Ellen Mirck // Hair & Makeup by Thais Bretas Model Xenia Micsanschi @ IMG Milano [images from the Ones2Watch]

Love this shoot. Reminds me of Irving Penn.

this summer love

2010-09-06T02:30:00.003-04:00

This is Pedro...

2010-08-24T20:56:00.005-04:00

Pedro O. Mexico City 2010

...and what's left of his stylish rat tail.

Believe it or not this was Pedro's braided rat tail turned keychain turned rare view mirror ornament. I like it best as a multi-style prosthetic mustache.

Mexico City Vol.1-What happens at las luchas...

2010-08-24T19:11:00.014-04:00

Despite common belief that I attend the Mexican Lucha Libre on a regular basis, I must make it clear that this was the first time that I partook in an excursion of this sort. The match took place on August 13th (friday the 13th...what a great day for such activity) at the Arena Mexico and it happened to be the Gran Final of the Campeonato Universal (for those of you who couldn't make that out, it means the Finals of the Universal Championship)...I don't know if that means anything but all I know is that it was some pretty intense wrestling. The fight celebrated the two finalists- Liger and La Sombra. I can't say that I know much about wrestling or any sport for that matter (if its even considered a sport) but that night I learnt that in las Luchas there are two kinds of wrestlers- the Rudos; the bad guys, and the Tecnicos; the good guys. And then either it is groups or one-on-one of the later two categories fighting each other to the death...maybe not to the death. The Rudos had the cool bad ass costumes and the Tecnicos had the sparkly super-hero style going...that being said, choosing a side was not easy. It was a tough decision, but since we all know the good guys always win, unlike most of the crowd, I decided to cheer for the Tecnicos while munching out of a bag of pop-corn. I took the photos above before and after the match outside the arena. It was definitely a fun night. Most of all it was amazing seeing the enthusiasm of the crowds cheering at the top of their lungs, and seeing fans from 2 year olds to 60 year olds wearing masks, made me regret that I did not bring my own (yes I indeed own a luchador mask). Unfortunately, my camera was confiscated along with many others prior to entering the match so I could not document the event, so please add go to the Lucha Libre on your list of things to do before you die.

JUMA PROMO SHOOT SS10

2010-07-24T21:00:00.010-04:00

Photography: Odette Beja // Styling and Direction: Melanie Abernethy
Featuring: Juma Norwegian Cage Skirt and Juma long overlay dress.

Here are some photos I took for a promo campaign for JUMA. Visit the Juma website to see more of the SS10 collection and keep posted for more photos!!!

The Prophet in Tatler HK

2010-07-19T16:38:00.004-04:00

Tatler Hong Kong May 2010 // Photography by Baldovino Barani // Styling by Holly Suan Gra

I love the concept of this shoot, the isolated yet industrial landscape makes for a great back drop for the futuristic styling. I particularly like the prints, especially the in the miu miu!!

blue flag beaches. blue speedos. and g-strings.

2010-07-12T16:36:00.007-04:00

Some photos from my first adventure at one of Toronto's blue flag beaches, with Andrew and Peter. Left the g-strings and blue speedos out for your own safety.

Roots x Douglas Coupland Launch Party

2010-07-12T13:00:00.011-04:00

Douglas Coupland

Photo Credit Above: JJ Thompson for Globe and Mail

Me and Peter

Photo Credit Above: JJ Thompson for Globe and Mail

Last week I attended the Roots x Douglas Coupland Launch party. The Canadian artist and novelist, most famously known for his bestseller Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture, worked in collaboration with Roots on an exclusive summer collection featuring printed graphic tees, colourful accessories and jockish letter jackets, all with a hipster twist! The event was held at the Roots Pop-Up store on Queen West and unveiled the collection to an enthusiastic crowd who enjoyed cocktails and socialized through out the evening. The gallery space was intimate and was decorated with original Coupland artwork including skateboards mounted on the walls and a designer canoe suspended from the ceiling! Check out the link above for more and be sure to visit Roots to see the collection!

Obviously couldnt wait...More from Jolijn Snijders

2010-06-28T14:55:00.005-04:00

So clearly I couldn't wait to post more on Jolijn Snijders. I'm just obsessed with his work. Love it or what?

Jolijn Snijders

2010-06-28T14:33:00.004-04:00

Photographed by Jolijn Snijders // Styled by Henry de Castillon

Model William Eustace from Success Models

Photos from theonestowatch.

I stumbled upon these photos this morning and i thought i would do a little post on it. Jolijn Snijders is a photographer based in Amsterdam and is known for his work in fashion. His photographs are all about the risqué and portraying imperfect beauty. He is also the founder and creative director of Ilovefake magazine and has worked with publications such as Vice, ELLE, and NYLON, as well as with designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, Tommy Hilfiger and MEXX. I like the simplicity and whimsicality of the story. Keep posted for more photos by Jolijn.

Anne Marie Skjoldager Jensen- "One Eye Laughing, The Other Crying"

2010-06-27T20:24:00.005-04:00

This amazing collection entitled "One Eye Laughing, The Other Crying" is by Danish designer Anne Marie Skjoldager Jensen was shown in Berlin in October 2009. Love it.

Elisha Smith-Leverock

2010-06-27T18:09:00.013-04:00

Elisha Smith-Leverock is a German photographer, creative consultant and art director currently based out of London. The short video below is entitled Sunshowers and is directed by Elisha as part of 'One Minute Light Series', a collection of one minute fashion films, which premiered officially on May 25 at ASVOFF at the Palazzo Morando in Milan . The use of natural light is a main focus in Sunshowers and also a prominent element in Elisha's photography. With the subject of light as the theme of the project, the fashion video celebrates the sun as "the mother of all light" and is a response to a brief given by Diane Pernet, who commissioned the video along with Vogue Italy. Also seen in the video are accessory designs by Fred Butler and Rosy Nicholas for Fred Butler. I love everything about it from the soft lighting, which creates a nostalgic dream-like effect, to the setting, the styling, the music and the movement. I think that the provocative primal material is fabulous not only in carrying forth its creative vision, but in its success representing and exploring the unique theme of the sun. It is works like these that remind us of a true appreciation of the art of fashion.

Sunshowers from Elisha Smith-Leverock on Vimeo.

Juma Scarves

2010-06-16T16:37:00.007-04:00

Inspired by Juma studio surroundings as well as with the juxtaposition of industrial elements and nature, the beautiful collection of laser printed silk scarves seen above was designed by Juma's own Melanie Abernethy.

I've always thought that silk scarves are amazing and season-less accessories that can compliment any outfit. The history of scarves is quite interesting and dates back to ancient Rome where "Sudariums" or sweat cloths were used by Romans to wipe their faces. Later on the cloths evolved into an accessory and were originally worn by men as knotted belts or around the neck. Not much later the style became popular among women and were also adopted by other cities. In the 17th century, Croatian Mercenaries also wore scarfs; soldiers wore cotton while officers of high ranks wore silk. Scarves are accessories of sophistication and are most commonly associated with french fashions.

Today, the scarf has become a must-have accessory and one that can be worn in various ways including around the neck, as head bands, bag straps, belts and tops. The unique collection features images of bones, birds, antlers, trees and waterfalls and is currently available at Henri Bendel and NW Hotels as well as at Toronto's Serpentine Boutique in Yorkville. Visit the Juma website for details and stay posted for a video on how to tie your scarf!

Inspirational Family Photos

2010-06-14T17:01:00.005-04:00

Here are some vintage family photos that I love.

Photoshoot with Amanda Lewkee

2010-06-11T11:11:00.012-04:00

Photography by Me// Designs by Amanda Lewkee// Models: Nadine McAdam and Liron Lashevsky// Assisted by Ronald Wan and Alanna Lewkee

This one is long over due...

Did this photo shoot a couple of weeks ago for Amanda's look book check out her website for more.

Amanda Lewkee is a fresh graduate from Ryerson's fashion design program and recently had her debut fashion show at Queen West's Great Hall.

Since a young age Amanda knew that she wanted to be a designer. Amanda has always had a passion and incredible talent for design- from teaching me how sew skirts out of jeans and making our own costumes to go trick or treating at the age of 12 to hearing about her constructing incredible outfits in a single hour before going out to parties- it is evident that Amanda truly lives to create. Today, the aspiring designer I met back in grade 8 has certainly become the designer she wanted to become- a dream that after lots of hard work and determination, has come true.

For those of you who didn't get a chance to see her collection at Mass Ex or at her show, Amanda's collection will also be showcased at Holt Renfrew's annual showcase of selected Ryerson Design graduates.

I'm Still Here

2010-06-01T18:24:00.004-04:00

Don't think I have abandoned my dear blog! Between school, interning, traveling and shooting, my schedule has been quite busy. But I'm still here and I will be posting some new stuff very soon so keep posted and don't forget about me!

-O

Art and Print Show at Studio 561 on Bloor

2010-05-15T04:00:00.027-04:00

Above: Art by Hayden Thomas

Hayden and his prints

Above: Art by Morgan Criger

Morgan and his prints

Above: Digital Print by Trevor Smale

Above: Sculpture (Bronze/Quater sawn oak/glass) by Trevor Smale

Above: Art by Katherine Le

Above: Mirror art by Auguste B.

Above: Paper art by Flora Pui Ting Shum

Above: Paper art close up detail by Flora Pui Ting Shum

Above: (artist?)

Above: Art by Oksana Hawrylak

Above: Linocut by Alexis London

Above: Lithography "Hide" by Alicia Pozojevic

OCAD Grad Exhibit

2010-05-13T19:32:00.018-04:00

Above: Thursday Night Trunk show of the art I bought?

Art above by Aileen Cheung

Above: Photographs by Victoria Vitasek

Above: Hayden holding one of the pieces I purchased (artist?)

Above: Art by Vanessa Maltese

Above: Art by Winnie Truong

Above: Craft Work Series by Cameron Lee

Last Thursday I attended OCADs Grad Exhibit, I ended up spending the whole time at the print sale finding goodies to put up in my room. I had two hands full of amazing prints of all sizes and I sadly had to pick and choose because I didn't have enough cash on me (surprise?). So knowing me and my love for prints and of course buying stuff...I had to return the day after to buy more art (keep posted for pictures of the prints I purchased)... and to actually look at the exhibits. I was amazed by the art work that the grads showcased. I wanted it all...from photographs to paintings to installation art. I was particularly intrigued by a couple of artists' works so I decided to share these amazing pieces with those of you who missed out on the exhibit. Above are the works of some of my favorite artists as well as some shots of the print sale. Keep posted for some artist interviews.

How to tie a bow-tie 101?

2010-05-13T15:36:00.005-04:00

Photo of...me... by Hanah Chung (follow her awesome blog "ophelias funeral"!)

I found this photo from earlier in the year that Hanah took in our photography class. I love the lights in the background so I decided to play around with photoshop and incorporate my Karl portrait. Love how in the background the black board says "how to tie a bow-tie 101". I might just do a little bow-tie post now that I'm inspired so keep posted if you don't know how to tie one.

Who is Drew?

2010-05-12T15:45:00.000-04:00

Who is drew? I'll tell you.

Andrew D Ferguson.

Stylist. Fashion Connoisseur. Blogger.

I recently met Drew and have come to the conclusion that he is one of the coolest humans I know. Not only does he have an impeccable sense of style that I truly admire but he also shares two important common interests with me...the love for hero burger and drop crotch pants. Drew has been a freelance stylist for the past 3 years. He also works at Serpentine Boutique in Yorkville and co-manages Ransomholdingco. Most recently he has collaborated with Matt Babel, the Bay, magazines such as Inquiringmind and think Contra, and bands such as Fritz Helder and the Phantoms and Down With Webster. Drew runs his own blog entitled Who is Drew? (on my top 3 and soon on yours too I'm sure) where he displays his projects and everything fashion related. You'll catch Drew in brands like Rick Owens, Diet Butcher Slim Skin, Robert Geller, Givenchy and his favorite JUMA drop crotch pants that he cut into 3/4 length shorts that he wears almost everyday (umm hell yea)!

Organic Symmetry

2010-05-12T15:20:00.000-04:00

Photography: Krszyszof Herholdt // Styling & Clothes: Jean-Phillip // Model: Wiktor Hansson

I stumbled upon this shoot today and I had to post it. I love the photography and the styling.

JUMA [studio.sale]

2010-05-12T13:20:00.000-04:00

This week at Juma.

Studio Sale.

JUMA is having a [must attend] studio sale. Up to 70% OFF on [mens//womens//accessories] samples, Spring10' collections and more starting at $20!!! On today May 12th through Saturday May 15th. Come by or message me on face book for details. No excuses, call a friend and come by today!

224 Wallace Ave (Unit414), Toronto

416.645.3322

www.juma.ca

wednesday, may 12, 11-8

thursday, may 13, 11-8

friday, may 14, 11-8

saturday, may 15, 11-6

Don't miss out!

-O

Neil Barrett Fall'10

2010-05-12T10:48:00.000-04:00

Milan designer Neil Barrett has worked with Gucci directing the men's line and with Prada where he launched the men's division. Barrett's own Fall'10 men and women's collections, consist of tailored outerwear and sharply cut suits with intricate finishes in a dark black to gray palette. While emphasizing the designs' details with fused fabrics through cutting and pasting pieces in a collage style (reference to synthetic cubism?), wool peacoats and leather jackets as well as unique lapels and collars are featured as the focus of the collection. My favorite is the black square men's long sleeve...Très Malevich.

Gabriella Gonzalez

2010-05-11T15:15:00.000-04:00

I am amazed by Gabriella Gonzalez's A/W10-11 accessory collection entitled “Victorian SCI-FI Surgery”. Through out the collection Gonzalez explores feelings of emotion and restraint while emphasizing the concept of timelessness. I find the pieces' surreal aesthetic act as a fashionable commentary on contemporary issues of psychological and emotional repression; a theme that I have noticed to be a theme quite common in current collections.

Fred Butler

2010-05-11T15:00:00.000-04:00

Fred Butler is a London based designer that collaborates with stylists and photographers designing unique tailor made props and accessories that give a creative 'wow' factor to the aesthetic of editorials. I love this photograph. The high contrast of the b&w photography, the model's fierce expression and the metallic geometric pieces make for a strong image with a futuristic feel. What a work of art.

Machiko Agano

2010-05-11T14:59:00.000-04:00

Above are some inspirational photos of works by Japanese master weaving artist and artisan Machiko Agano. His textural installations are unreal and definitely worth checking out.

Uncommon Creatures

2010-05-06T15:06:00.000-04:00

Copenhagen based duo duo Christina Højris Ottosen and Jens Kold-Christensen are the creative minds behind the brand Uncommon Creatures. Inspired by aesthetic elements of traditional wear of orthodox judaism, their debut AW10 collection showcases distinct yet simplistic pieces in a dark monochrome palette. They describe their silhouette as "avant-garde and raw while keeping a high degree of simplicity".

Karen Walker Sunglasses

2010-05-06T14:51:00.000-04:00

Round frames. Square frames. Flat top bars. Oversized glasses. I love the Spring 2010 eye wear collection by New Zealand designer Karen Walker.

JUMA SS10

2010-05-03T13:42:00.000-04:00

I'm currently interning at JUMA, a women and mens contemporary RTW label. The Toronto based company was started by brother and sister duo- Alia and Jamil Juma. Retailers include Henri Bendel (New York), OAK (New York), By George (Austin), One Of A Few (Vancouver), Free Shop (Tokyo), Vered (Israel), Bella (Guatemala), Simons (Montreal), Serpentine (Toronto), and more. Above is the promo video for the Spring/Summer 2010 Collection. Visit the JUMA website and check out more of their unique items and collections.

Broken Bells

2010-05-02T11:12:00.000-04:00

Word on the street is that American indie rock band, Broken Bells, is the new buzz in town. The band consists of an unexpected collaboration between two members: artist-producer Brian Burton aka Danger Mouse and musician James Mercer. New Yorker Danger Mouse is famously known for his involvement with Gnarls Barkley and for producing artists including Gorillaz, Beck and Black Keys. You might recognize Mercer, a Honolulu native, for being the frontman for the Portland indie rock band The Shins. This past March, the dynamic pair released their first debut single and a spirited success under Columbia Records- "The High Road". According to Rolling Stone, the odd duo makes for a perfect match; Mercer's sweet and introspective vocals are pushed outward with "Day-Glo dynamics" and Danger Mouse's "synth swirls, slo-mo kick drums, and a melancholy bass line" as the finishing touches. The self-titled transcultural pop album is brilliantly experimental and possesses a uniquely multi-layered and catchy sound that is definitely worth a listen.

Picasso a la Carte

2010-04-20T20:42:00.000-04:00

Pablo Picasso, Man with a Hat, 1912. Collage.

After many hours of studying for my art history exam I have finally got to the good stuff...20th Century art. I decided to take a little break to make this post on Picasso. I am reading about him in this chapter and I got really excited for my trip to NY since I plan on going to the Met to see an exhibit on his works (great motivation to study for this exam). The exhibit will be open next week on April 27th just in time for my arrival! Above is Picasso's Man with a Hat, a cubist piece made of collage with pieces of news paper and paper and drawn in charcoal. This work marks the end of Analytic Cubism in which forms are fragmented into abstract geometric pieces and the start of Synthetic Cubism in which flat shapes of colour or collage are arranged together to form objects. I love this piece seeing as I am a big fan of both collage and hats.

new york!!!

2010-04-17T19:26:00.000-04:00

NY Skyline piece I made inspired by NY trip (Acrylic, Ink and Collage edited on photoshop)

My trip to New York is finally happening next month! I've started to make a list of the places I want to go and so far I have the following down. If you have any suggestions of places that are worth a visit (known, new, or secret?) let me know...

Shopping:

- meatpacking district

- soho

- barneys

- canal

- brooklyn

- west village

Food:

- balthazar

- mercer kitchen

- delis

- the standard

- serendipity

Attractions:

- High line

- The Met

- MOMA

- The new museum

- Central park

Nightlife...

We Have Band

2010-04-14T16:53:00.000-04:00

We Have Band - You Came Out from We Have Band on Vimeo.

I love the high energy and funky dance beat of We Have Band. The electro-pop Londoners who are yet to be signed (not for long I think), released their debut album You Came Out on April 5th and it is now available in the iTunes store. Check out more of their videos they are really cool.

Cedric Rivrain- Fashion Illustrations

2010-04-13T09:15:00.000-04:00

Jill Sander, 2008 by Cedric Rivrain

Christopher Kane dress, 2009 by Cedric Rivrain

Prada, 2008 by Cedric Rivrain

Balenciaga, 2008 by Cedric Rivrain

I love the delicacy and softness of these fashion illustrations by Parisian artist Cedric Rivrain. Rivrain has illustrated for fashion houses such as John Galliano and Martine Sitbon and finds inspiration in his friends, as well as his childhood.

MY WEBSITE IS UP!

2010-04-08T11:21:00.000-04:00

My website is up!! It is still under construction so bare with me. It will be complete soon.

-O

Polaroids I Found

2010-04-08T11:14:00.000-04:00

I found these old photos from years ago when I was cleaning out my room. Why did they have to discontinue polaroid film?

Viktor&Rolf Pre-Fall10

2010-03-25T15:11:00.000-04:00

(Images from style.com)

I have to admit that looking at Viktor&Rolf's pre Fall '10 collection really got me inspired and I'm now feeling guilty for being excited for fall, especially since spring hasn't even started! The dynamic Duo is known for pushing the limits with their imaginative and theatrical designs. Named after the Rolling Stones tune, "Paint it Black" is one of my favorites as it is totally wearable and yet keeping truthful to their playful style by adding some special touches to their designs. I'm pretty sure I heard this collection was dedicated to my good friend Laura, the lady of the black wardrobe (wink*wink), who has officially made me a woman all in black...although of course I still like touches of colour here and there. Love this collection.

My T's are READY!!!

2010-03-24T18:23:00.001-04:00

Finally the moment you've all been waiting for!!! All went well at the printer today and the t-shirts are now ready. Thank you everyone who placed an order, your support is greatly appreciated! Special thanks to Dan W for your expertise and help! If you got a T-shirt, I would love to put up pictures of you sporting it... so send me a photo if you don't mind me posting it... Everyone else, keep checking the blog I will be posting more fun stuff soon.

I look forward to seeing everyone wear their Ts!

-O

Creative Types II

2010-03-19T16:33:00.000-04:00

above: print by hayden thomas

below: print by justin apperley

Le Creative Sweatshop...Oui Oui!!!

2010-03-18T12:41:00.000-04:00

Recently I've been working on a fashion promotion project and I remembered an incredible set of origami shoes that I saw in a magazine. I did some research and finally found the master minds behind this unique project: Le creative Sweatshop, a conceptual communication agency started in 2009 made by the creative french duo: Mathieu Missiaen (of Ndeur: customised vintage stiletto shoes) and Julien Morin (of Make a Paper World: paper communications). Their work is focused on DIY culture and its based on modern mediums. Through the creative use of volume and space these designers have come up with an incredible range of projects that are truly inspiring. They have collaborated on several projects including one on fashion accessories for Canadian stylist Heidi Ackerman. In September 2009 they showcased their work with an installation made of 15 000 paper sculptures at the Prêt à Porter tradeshow in Paris... I would definitely be breaking more than a sweat trying to fold all those crazy origami shapes. Visit their website to see more of their work.

Holly Fulton // Fall10 RTW

2010-03-17T14:11:00.000-04:00

(images from style.com)

Holly Fulton never ceases to amaze me with her incredible designs. Heres a peek of some of my favoirte designs from her Fall2010 RTW collection, which were showcased in her show at London fashion week last month. Visit style.com to check out her complete collection.

Get Twisted at Serpentinata!

2010-03-17T08:49:00.000-04:00

Raw. Surreal. Avant Garde.

"Let us inspire you. Let us intrigue you. Let us invite you to experience Serpentinata. Get Twisted."

Serpentinata will feature the Menswear and Women's Eveningwear designs of young talents on April 9, 2010, at the Arcadian Court (401 Bay Street).

Get your tickets NOW and be a part of something big by supporting the new and upcoming designers in Toronto!!

Check out the website by clicking on "Serpentinata" for more information.

"A Day At The Beach" Inspirational Family Photos

2010-03-16T17:12:00.000-04:00

I'm Ready to Wear SPRING SHOES!

2010-03-12T11:09:00.000-05:00

Here are some of my favorite Shoes from RTW lines for SS10.

Alexander McQueen

Givenchy

D2Squared

Versace

Proenza Schouler

Christopher Kane

Basso and Brooke

I Am The Walrus!

2010-03-02T22:31:00.000-05:00

Goob Goob Ga Joob.

A birthday card I made for my friend Lior last month and then forgot to post (happy birthday)! I like walruses!

Banderillas

2010-03-02T22:06:00.000-05:00

So I finally made the banderillas samples for my branding project at school. I didn't have to make a product, since the project was only branding a hand crafted item with a logo etc. But being me I decided to do everything and so I created a line and made the pieces my self! Banderillas is a women’s ready to wear collection of unique printed cotton t-shirts, tank tops and mini-dresses. The variations of prints are composed of geometric shapes focused around the neck or collar area. Inspired by art deco and futurism, the t-shirts serve as a blank canvas for the printed designs, which showcase a fusion of bold triangular prints and eye-popping colours. The actual garments are meant to be pieces that you can just throw on and that are even suitable as outfit accessories. The unique designs are meant to portray a confident yet playful personality that isn't afraid to wear something new. Unexpectedly several friends said that they wanted one so I'm working on sending them to production! Let me know if you would be interested in getting one!!

Winter Woods

2010-03-01T09:58:00.000-05:00

Photography: Odette Beja

Styling/MU: Odette Beja

Model: Sara Cohan

can you tell its valentines?

2010-02-22T20:40:00.000-05:00

Flying with a cold?

2010-02-10T23:26:00.000-05:00

So apparently I have a few wise friends who saw my face book status of my complaining that I have a cold and that I don't want to fly with it... they gave me some of their remedy advice (please don't try this without visiting a doctor this is not a professional prescription just friendly advice...). I will try these!! Thank you friends!

Mr Eric:

"The secret med to colds is Alka Seltzer + Sinutab Extra Strength.

Do as directed on the boxes plz :) And u can get them at Shoppers Drug mart without prescription. When ure at it, get Fisherman Friends, the one with the stripes (non-sugar) for your throat later. And when ure at it, just grab a bottle of Pepto-Bismol for ur upset stomach from the cold or flu."

Haley:

"1) you buy sudafed and take it like mad (aka as instructed on the box)

and most important: 2) BUY EARPLANES, theyre earplugs you wear in the plane do stop teh popping aka some sort of air flow through your ears. they sell them in some of the stores in the airport. and make sure to wear them properly (aka you have to push them in..far..ha.)"

Lets go Mental!

2010-02-10T22:19:00.001-05:00

Playing Fashion, Winter2010/ Photographyby Alina Lebedeva/ Styling by Gala Borzova

This is by far the creepiest photo spread I've seen in a while. The images are so shocking and bold and they obviously do a good job in catching your attention. It's one of those photo shoots that sticks to your mind as it provokes all sorts of emotions. The models truly look like crazies that escaped from the mental hospital and somehow broke into Vogue and raided the fashion closet. I like the pirate in the last image and note the ship head piece on the model beside the pirate!

Mama Made a Chocolate Box...

2010-02-10T20:11:00.000-05:00

AND ITS MADE OUT OF CAKE!!!

My mom has been going crazy over all these amazing baking projects. Last fall she found this cake box on Bakerella and showed it to my friend Becca and I. We loved the idea and after Becca suggested that she should make it for us on Valentines Day. My mom had just started to make these cool chocolate cake pops which took a lot of work and patience to make and replied "Dont push it girl". Well... here we are February and since I won't be in town for Valentines Day when I got home today my mom surprised me with this fabulous treat full of little treats (yes, the little chocolates are actually the cake pop balls). Not only did it turn out so perfectly and beautifully, but its delicious! thanks mom!! To see more of my mom's ideas, inspirations and projects check out her blog click here->mom's blog. Happy early V-Day friends!!!

Robyn Woytiuk and Jaloux Designs

2010-02-10T17:01:00.000-05:00

Who? Robyn Woytiuk, Fashion Designer

What? Jaloux Designs headpieces (check out her website to see more of her work!)

Robyn is a colleague and friend of mine whose passion and dedication are truly reflected on her beautiful pieces and designs. Here are some Q&A's for you to learn a little bit about Robyn and her work.

O- What inspires you?

R- I always find this question hard to answer because everything inspires me! Some of my designs have been inspired by graffiti behind the buildings at dundas west subway station haha but I refer back to 1940’s fashion for a lot of my designs.

O- When did you start making headpieces?

R- I started making head pieces about 3 years ago for a high school art project and it branched out from there.

O- How and when did you start Jaloux Designs?

R- I decided I wanted to start my company about 2 years ago. After I started making the pieces as just something fun to do for friends I became very interested in millinery. I think people don’t give millinery as much respect as they should these days and I really want to change that!

O- Tell me about Jaloux Designs.

R- Jaloux Designs is all hand crafted and designed by me. The name “Jaloux” means jealous in French, which is how i want people to feel while they are wearing my pieces, like everyone is jealous of them haha.

O- As a student what is the hardest thing about running your own business, and what is the most fun?

R- Well the most fun would defiantly be making the pieces and having them in fashion shows. I’m actually going to be featured in a benefit fashion show on February 16th to raise money for Haiti. Just the look on peoples faces when they see what I do, it’s an amazing feeling. The hardest part would probably be prioritizing what I have to do for school against the chances I get with my headpieces. It sucks having to turn down opportunities!

O- Who are your designs intended for?

R- Anyone! I have made some for my grandma, my mom’s friends and an ADORABLE flower girl in the past few months.

O- Where and how do you recommend one wear your designs?

R- I love my pieces because they are really versatile, you can dress them up and down. I have worn them to fancy events but I also like to wear them on Sunday mornings to the st. Lawrence market.

O- How can one acquire one of your pieces?

R- I sell them on my website but since most of my orders are custom I recommend sending me an email on my site or leaving a comment so I can get back to you and then we can go from there.

O- If you could design pieces for a designer who would it be?

R- Alexander McQueen, no doubt about that! His designs are so ridiculous sometimes, it would be a challenge but you could just go totally beyond the limits!

O- Who's your favorite designer?

R- Definitely Chloe. There is not ONE piece in the 2010 RTW collection that I wouldn’t wear everyday of my life!

O- What's your favorite movie?

R- Hmm probably a tie between Josie and The Pussy Cats and 500 Days of Summer. I like cheesy love movies.

O- What's the last song you heard?

R- The Artist by The Hush Sound! Fantastic song, amazing lyrics.

“But your eyes are drawn of charcoal, they're black, they're so cold, they're so imperfect. Because they see a sleeping world, where waking isn't worth it.”

O- If you were an animal what would you be?

R- Probably a giraffe because I have always wanted to be tall haha.

O- Interesting fact about yourself_______

R- I have traveled to 31 countries!

Thank you Robyn for your contribution to my blog!

Designer Faces NEWS!

2010-02-10T14:55:00.000-05:00

Zac Posen

Marc Jacobs

karl lagerfeld

These are the final designs for the T-shirts!!!

As most of you know from my messages on face book I had some unexpected production changes so I will now be sending the t-shirts to get printed at a company. In order to meet the minimum printing requirements, I have to wait to receive some more order requests prior to starting the productions. I expect to send the t-shirts into production by mid february and the printing to be done by the end of february.

If you haven't ordered a t-shirt yet and you would like to place an order let me know asap. The updated final designs are Marc, Karl and Zac. They will be printed on white american apparel unisex t-shirts. V-necks are $35 and Crew necks are $30. If you can spread the word to any one who you think may be interested it would be greatly appreciated!

Once again, thank you for supporting the Designer Face T-shirt Project!

-Odette

Designer T-Shirt Project

2010-02-08T22:51:00.000-05:00

Dear supporters of the Designer T-Shirt Project production round #1 :

After a long and tiresome day running around the city trying to figure my life out, I am happy to announce that the t-shirt project is on track. Many of the orders had to be changed due to some unexpected production sacrifices. Unfortunately for the moment being I will only be able to create screens for the prints of... Marc, Karl and John... since they were the 3 most wanted. I apologize to all of you who ordered some of the other designs, hopefully if this project succeeds, I will be able to make more screens in the near future. There were also some unexpected production cost changes and printing delays so I will be printing (crossed fingers) by tomorrow evening or at the latest Wednesday evening. I will try to get all of your orders delivered to you before I leave on friday and I will be returning to Toronto on the 19th of February so if you don't have your shirt by this thursday expect it by the weekend of the 19th if all goes as planned.

Thank you to every one that is supporting this project, your enthusiastic requests are greatly appreciated!!!

Special thanks to Hayden, good sir and Master of the Prints (coming to my blog soon!), and to Dan the Man with Many Awesome Socks (keep checking my blog for a post on this particular human's amazing sock collection)

Girl with Green Eyelashes

2010-02-05T17:28:00.000-05:00

An illustration I made in photoshop for a project at school.