Diva Designer

Michael Kors Fall '11 RTW

Yesterday, Michael Kors hit the runway for New York Fashion Week. Even though I couldn't be in NYC, I was able to watch the show online with some MK colleagues. His Fall '11 RTW collection was full of FUR, a natural colour pallet (grey, nude, camel, black), dresses over pants, platforms, and cuffs as bracelets and necklaces. I especially loved the lavish fur vests and coats that were shown in many different shades. Here are some of my favourite looks from the show:

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Stop'n'Style

I am a huge fan of Rebecca Minkoff's edgy yet flirty style. Her handbags are classic yet add some playfulness to any outfit. Rebecca's career started with a five-piece apparel line in 2001. In 2005, she decided to experiment with handbags, and that's how the iconic "Morning After Bag" was born. In honor of Thanksgiving in the US, you lucky Americans can participate in Rebecca Minkoff's Black Friday online sale. Starting Friday at midnight through Monday the 29th, shoppers will get free ground domestic shipping on orders over $100. Happy Thanksgiving and shop lots!!

Diva Designer

My latest obsession is American Retro. After visiting Carbon this weekend and seeing their new American Retro merchandise, I fell in love. Although it is a bit pricey, it is sooo worth it. AR was founded in 2002 by Parisian brothers David and Gregory Pariente. Their collection is made with high quality fabrics, and each piece has intricate detailing and creativity. American Retro is available online at Shopbop, or if you live in Toronto at Carbon or Andrew's. If you live in the States, it is also available at Bloomingdales.

Diva Designer: Michael Kors

Michael Kors

I started a new job yesterday, and it just happens to be at one of my favourite designer's stores: Michael Kors. I've always loved MK because of his reasonable prices, chic yet luxurious sportswear and clothing, and classic shoes and handbags. With three great collections, Michael Kors was even honored this year by winning the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Lifetime Achievement Award. He believes in making women feel beautiful, which has clearly helped his name evolve. For the Fall season, my MK wishlist has grown tremendously. Here are some of my favourites for this season:

1. Purple Oversized Acrylic Watch, $195

2. Black Mongolian Fur Vest, $325

3. Walnut Suede Hamilton Tote, $298

4. Black Joplin Boot, $395

5. Black Colette Large Shoulder Tote, $498

6. Fawn Embellished Open-Knit Top, $229

7. Slate Laci Cheetah Pump, $135

8. Indigo Uptown Astor Shoulder Tote, $448

Now that I work for Michael Kors, I will be sure to update everyone on new merchandise and upcoming sales!  

Diva Designer: Mara Hoffman

Mara Hoffman


In the summertime, I try to keep my black clothes hidden away in my closet. Like this dress, I love wearing a variety of colours. While browsing my daily fashion sites, I came across some clothes from Mara Hoffman's Spring 2010 collection. One word to describe her collection is: colourful. 


Her collection of skirts, dresses and tops range from girly to funky to casual chic. Perfect for a summer wedding or night out, Mara's outfits will definitely get you noticed. I haven't seen that much of her collection around Toronto, but I do know that sell it at Jac Flash on Queen Street. It is also available online at Shopbop. 


Mara first got started on Sex and the City, and ever since, her designs have been worn by many celebrities. Her specialty is dyed and batiked jersey-knit garments, with an inspiration from nature and beauty around the world.


Here are some of my fave pieces: 

Diva Designer: Yumi Kim

Yumi Kim


The Lower East Side in Manhattan is one of my favorite places to visit in NYC. There are tons of great restaurants and cafes, and designer and independent boutiques. Living in Union Square last summer, I visited the Lower East Side quite frequently since it was close by. While browsing one day with my friend, we walked into the Yumi Kim shop on Stanton Street, and fell in love. 


Kim Phan, the owner, opened her Manhattan store in Fall 2008. The store includes the Yumi Kim collection, along with vintage jackets, boots, dresses and handbags. Her collection is filled with unique prints, colours and styles made for the urban and funky female. 

Here are some pieces from her summer collection:

Sheila Dress

Goddess Dress

Lisa Top 

Jasmine Top

Leah Romper

Kendra Romper

Besides her flagship store in the Lower east side, her collection can also be found at Intermix, Ron Herman, Nordstroms, Bloomingdales, and Saks.

Diva Designer: Madison Marcus

Madison Marcus

Designed by Jessica Sturman, Madison Marcus' first collection was in 2006. The designs are flirty and feminine, but also elegant. Ranging from dresses, tops, rompers, and skirts, her Spring 2010 collection is designed for the modern princess. Most of her pieces are versatile and can be worn day or night with the addition of fun accessories.

Here are some of my favourites from her Spring 2010 collection:

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In Toronto, you can find Madison Marcus at Holt Renfrew, Carbon, and Aritiza.

Diva Designer: Nicole Richie

Winter Kate & House of Harlow 1960

I'm starting to like the new Nicole Richie. Departing from her crazy Simple Life days with Paris Hilton, Nicole is now a mother and talented designer.

Both Winter Kate and House of Harlow 1960 represent Nicole's impeccable style. House of Harlow 1960 is a jewelry and shoe collection. The collection is chic yet bohemian, and a perfect addition to top-off any outfit. After Nicole's success with House of Harlow 1960, she launched Winter Kate this year. Winter Kate is Harlow's (her daughter) middle name, and the collection includes bohemian style dresses, blouses and tops. Winter Kate is feminine with a vintage look.

Here are 4 outfits combining Winter Kate and House of Harlow 1960:

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I love both of her collections. I'm excited to see where Winter Kate goes in the Fall/Winter.

Diva Designer: Herve Leger

Herve Leger

What girl wouldn't dream to own a Herve Leger dress? Since I'd love to buy one in the near future, I should probably start a savings account just for the dress.

Herve Leger's signature design is the iconic bandage dress. It perfectly sculpts the female figure, and is very flattering. Although I love the colors of the spring/summer collection, I would probably end up buying a black one since it will last me forever (as long as I don't gain weight!).

Here are some dresses from Herve Leger's collection:

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The colors are magnificent! I especially love the 2 purple strapless dresses.

Anyone own one?

Diva Designer: Erin Kleinberg

Diva Designer: Erin Kleinberg

I'm always proud to share a hometown designer, and even one close to my age. First discovered by giving Mischa Barton one of her homemade scarf inspired tops at a Toronto H&M, gaining free exposure, Erin Kleinberg began to be noticed.

She launched her first collection in the summer of 2008. Her goal with her collection was to bridge the gap with semi-couture tanks, tees, and novelty pieces. Her clothes are now sold across Canada, US, and internationally.

She has been also featured in numerous publications, with celebrities raving about her couture yet simple clothing.

Here is a preview of her Spring collection:

I love the simplicity of her collection, yet each piece is unique and glamorous.