Framework Magazine Issue 9 - March 2013

framework BUILD YOUR LIFE IN STYLE

TIPS

HOME DECOR ADVICE FROM A GOOD CHICK TO KNOW

SPRING TREND GUIDE: HOW TO WEAR OUR FAVOURITE FASHIONS ISSUE 9 march 2013

SUNNY SHUM +PA U L M E LO

PHILOSOPHIES ON FASHION, BUSINESS, AND DOING WHAT YOU LOVE

ISSUE 9

march 2013

on the cover “With off and on downpours during our covershoot, we chanced upon the perfect light for these playful alleyway shots behind Sunny & Paul's home. "

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8 CONTRIBUTORS 10 EDITOR’S LETTER

11 12

CHECKLIST

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BOOK CLUB

essentials 13

EDITOR’S PICKS Easter Brunch

Hear them roar

110 BLOGGER PANEL Crystalin An Tash Liborio Krystal Schlegel Lynzy Carey

15 We're celebrating International Women's Day with three tales of strong women around the globe.

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CONTENTS

style

&

beauty

20 BEAUTY SCHOOL

Pastels pop for eyes, lips, and nails

24 BEHIND THE BRAND Farima Hakkak, La Couleur Couture

28 FASHION 101

How to wear colour head-to-toe

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CONTENTS

culture & living 16 LAZY GIRL'S STICKY BUNS

A quick & easy recipe

17 WINE TRIO

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Wines under $20

18 WE HEART

Colour Play: Art inspired by the runway

44 DESIGNED FOR LIVING

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DĂŠcor advice from Jennifer Scott & Megan Baker: A Good Chick to Know

ISSUE 9

march 2013

CONTENTS

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features

SPRING 2013 TREND GUIDE We're coveting: Black & White Sporty Chic Print Party

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COVER COUPLE

Two of a Kind: Sunny Shum & Paul Melo share philosophies on fashion, business, and doing what you love

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ISSUE 9

march 2013 6

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LET'S GET SOCIAL! drop us a line and join the fun

blog | twitter | facebook instagram | pinterest we can't wait to hear from you ...

CONTRIBUTORS

SACHIN KHONA PHOTOGRAPHER Vancouver, BC

KYRANI KANAVAROS PHOTOGRAPHER Vancouver, BC

JASMINE HOFFMAN MAKEUP ARTIST Vancouver, BC

AMELIA EICHHOLZ ART CONSULTANT Boston, MA

SARA CONSTANTINEAU WRITER Burnaby, BC

SOPHIE COLLINS WRITER Vancouver, BC

CHARRISSE MAE MAKEUP ARTIST Vancouver, BC

JESSICA W. NOUJEIM MAKEUP & HAIR ARTIST North Vancouver, BC

many thanks to this month’s contributors!

~ love, Framework BRIA LEAR Founder & Editor-in-Chief RHYA JOHNSTON-WALLACE Editorial Intern 8

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JENNIFER PISTOR STYLIST & BLOGGER New Westminster, BC

PERIENNE SADLER CHEF & RESTAURATEUR North Vancouver, BC

COMING UP NEXT...

Best Face Forward ISSUE 10

JEREMY JUDE LEE PHOTOGRAPHER Richmond, BC

"Shape up for Spring with the fairest in beauty & decor"

JULIA DILWORTH WRITER Vancouver, BC

FRAMEWORK MAGAZINE APRIL 2013

for advertising information email: sales @frameworkmag.com

EDITOR'S LETTER

dear...

March always brings a sense of renewal and a fresh perspective. With the extra daylight hours we’ve been longing for, a warmer breeze, and new buds on the trees, we’re only a few weeks away from the official start of spring.

With this issue I can finally say farewell to winter, and welcome all that I love about the new season—bright colours, a myriad of cheerful prints, and the promise of days warm enough for bare legs and arms!

From fashion’s most covetable trends (and how to wear them), to quick and easy updates for your home, our March issue is full of tips for embracing all that spring offers.

I was thrilled (and, I must admit, slightly nervous) to interview one of Vancouver’s most talented creative couples, Sunny Shum and Paul Melo.

Arriving at their apartment for our cover shoot, I was instantly put at ease by their welcoming and laid-back attitude. I think you’ll love their advice to their

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twenty-five-year-old selves, glimpse into their home…

and

the

xo,

BRIA LEAR, FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

editor@frameworkmag.com

CHECKLIST

THIS MARCH WE SUGGEST

the framework girl...

WELCOMES SPRING WITH A PASTEL BEAUTY PALETTE TOASTS TO HER SUCCESSES AND PLANS FOR MORE AHEAD DRESSES UP HER TABLE FOR EASTER FESTIVITIES STOWS AWAY HER WINTER HUES AND DONS ONE BRIGHT COLOUR HEAD-TO-TO ENHANCES HER PEEPERS WITH SPRING’S HOTTEST HUE CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY WITH INSPIRING NEW READS CHOSTS A MANI – PEDI PARTY, JUST BECAUSE RE-HANGS HER ART COLLECTION FOR A FRESH GRAPHIC STATEMENT UPDATES HER WARDROBE WITH A PERSONAL TAKE ON THE SEASON’S HOTTEST TRENDS

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EASTER BRUNCH SET THE TABLE AND STYLE YOURSELF WITH A MIX OF FRESH PATTERNS AND HAPPY HUES. IT'S MY FAVOURITE WAY TO ENCOURAGE EARLY SPRING SUNSHINE!

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1. BCBGENERATION MINAUDIERE, ZAPPOS, $65

2. BOW BANGLE, KATE SPADE, $78

3. DOUBLE

SQUARE TEE, J.CREW, $55 4. ELIZABETH AND JAMES GLASSES, SHOPBOP, $215 5. DAISY STUD EARRINGS, BANANA REPUBLIC, $47 6. KATE SPADE LESLIE PUMPS, JILDOR SHOES, $358 7. SEPHORA + PANTONE UNIVERSE MINI EMERALD NAIL LACQUERS, SEPHORA, $22 8. BOUTIQUE PENCIL SKIRT,TOPSHOP, $120

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EDITOR'S PICKS 9.

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9. DUTCH BUNNY SALT & PEPPER SHAKER, INDIGO, $19 10. HERB POTS W/ TRAY, INDIGO, $34 11. DONNA WILSON PLATE, MINT INTERIORS, $39 12. DRIED LAVENDER BOUQUET, IKEA, $5 13. BLOSSOM BOWL, INDIGO, $10

14. ROSE GOLD FLATWARE, WEST ELM, $41

15. OLIVER

OCCASIONAL CHAIR IN SARAH CAMPBELL JUNGLE LEAF, WEST ELM, $593 framework

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BOOK CLUB HEAR THEM ROAR

EVERY MONTH WE CHOOSE THREE MUST-READ BOOKS, FROM RECENT RELEASES TO OLD FAVOURITES, THAT WOULD FIT INTO ANY FRAMEWORK GIRL’S BOOK CLUB. IT’S JUST ONE MORE EXCUSE TO GET TOGETHER WITH FRIENDS OVER SWEET TREATS AND COCKTAILS!

by Sara Constantineau

March 8 marks International Women’s Day, and these three female-led stories truly span the globe, from 19thCentury England to modern-day Saudi Arabia. From fictional literature heroines to a real-life icon, each protagonist is both separated by cultural differences and brought together by similar struggles, conflicts, and concerns.

GIRLS OF RIYADH

BY RAJAA ALSANEA

4/5

THE STORY

Like Gossip Girl for the Upper East Side, an anonymous Saudi woman keeps her online readers in the know about a clique of four young Saudi women in the upper echelon of Riyadh society. She follows their romantic interludes, quests for independence, travels, and careers, all the while showing the world the intricacies of Saudi society and how female millennials navigate the treacherous terrain.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

This novel caused quite a stir when it was first released in Arabic in 2005. Originally banned in Saudi Arabia, it gained international popularity thanks to its unprecedented depiction of young Muslim women living in a strict society that the Western world doesn’t really understand.

BEST FOR: GETTING A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE 14

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BOOK CLUB

I PUT A SPELL ON YOU

BY NINA SIMONE & STEPHEN CLEARY

3.5 / 5

THE STORY

In her late fifties, Nina Simone reflects on her life as the High Priestess of Soul. She writes about her beginnings as a classically trained child prodigy, her compelling rise to fame and participation in the Civil Rights movement, and her complicated personal life after she decided to leave America for less hostile ground.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

Nina Simone’s social activism and commitment to civil rights is a testament to her passion, intelligence, and bold unapologetic nature, so it’s no surprise that reading her story in her own words is an enlightening experience.

BEST FOR: THOSE WHO WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD

JANE EYRE

BY CHARLOTTE BRONTË

4.5 / 5

THE STORY

Unloved, plain, and small in stature, Jane Eyre is nonetheless motivated by her intelligence and strength of spirit to seek a life she knows she deserves. After taking a job as a governess to the young French ward of the enigmatic Mr. Rochester, she finds herself in conflict between her head and her heart when she realizes he is keeping a dark secret.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

Brontë’s quintessential tale has the rare combination of a brooding Byronic hero and a dynamic female protagonist who dares to put herself first. Working within the social position afforded to her by her looks and poverty, Jane Eyre still manages to find happiness without sacrificing her principles.

BEST FOR: REALIZING YOU SHOULD ALWAYS TRUST YOUR INNER VOICE framework

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LAZY GIRL S

ST I C KY B U N S

BY PERIENNE SADLER S A U C I S S E R E S T A U R A N T

GIVE THE IMPRESSION YOU’VE SLAVED ALL DAY IN THE KITCHEN, WITHOUT PUTTING IN THE EFFORT! ALSO KNOWN AS QUICK AND EASY CINNAMON BUNS, THESE SWEET AND STICKY TREATS ARE A FRAMEWORK GIRL GO-TO, AND THE PERFECT ADDITIONS TO SUNDAY BRUNCH.

LAZY GIRL'S STICKY BUNS INGREDIENTS:

• 1 package (2 sheets) of defrosted puff pastry • 12 Tablespoons room temperature butter + enough melted butter to brush the puff pastry with • 1 Cup brown sugar; light is best, but use what you have • 1/2 Cup chopped walnuts • 3 teaspoons cinnamon • 1/2 Cup raisins • 1/2 Cup dried currants 1. Preheat the oven to 400˚F. In a mixer, combine 1/3 cup of the brown sugar with the 12 tablespoons of room temperature butter. In a muffin tin, split this mixture in the bottom of all 12 spots. Sprinkle the walnuts in each tin over that mixture. Set Aside.

3. Unroll the puff pastry sheets, and one at a time brush with melted butter. On each sheet, sprinkle 1/3 cup

brown sugar, 1.5 tsp of cinnamon, 1/4 cup of raisins and 1/4 cup of currents.

4. Working from right to left, roll the puff pastry into a spiral shaped log. Trim off the ends. Cut both the spiral logs into 6 smaller pieces and place them in the muffin tins on top of the butter and nut mixture. Bake for 20 - 30 minutes, depending on how flaky or gooey you like your sticky buns, but watch them closely! fw SERVE ON A PRETTY PLATTER GARNISHED WITH DECORATED EGGS FOR EASTER-APPROPRIATE BITES. 16 framework

CULTURE & LIVING

$

$$ $$$

WINETRIO

tasting: wines under $20 W R ITT E N BY S O P H I E C O L L I N S

BUDGET-FRIENDLY WINE: It’s difficult to find a really amazing wine under $20 when you head to the liquor store without doing some research first. We’re always writing down wines, putting lists in our iPhone, and tearing out features from magazines. This month, rather than give you wines at three different price points, we wanted to give you our absolute favourite wines, under $20. These are the wines to reach for when you’re hosting a dinner party, having a casual dinner at home, or just stocking the bar. They’re great for every occasion and always come in handy!

everyday table $

WHITE - CRIOS TORRONTES $16.99

This is one of our favourite table wines to have on hand. The Torrontes grape is less severe than Sauvignon Blanc, but still fresh enough to appeal to those drinkers. It is full-bodied like Chardonnay, but without the oaky-butteriness. And, it is crisp like a Pinot Grigio. We call this “sipping wine” because it can easily go from food prep to main course.

dinner party $$

RED - CASILLERO DEL DIABLO CABERNET SAUVIGNON $14.99

We always stock up on this wine when serving meat, cheeses and flavourful tomato sauces; it is also our go-to for hostess gifts. Native to Chile, it is among a great selection of inexpensive wines. Chile and Argentina are both great countries to try when looking for great value. You can also serve this bottle with spicy food, which is unusual for red, so we love it for its versatility.

special occasion $$$

BUBBLY - VILLA TERESA FRIZZANTE VENETO ROSÉ $17.49

There is something a little bit more special about popping a bottle of Rosé. We love starting the night off with this wine, or even finishing it along with the dessert of your choosing. This frizzante has a slightly sweet, fruity nose with a refreshing splash on the palate. Full of citrus flavour, it would also be great with salad, fish, and a nice cheese platter.

Find a few great wines at great price points and stock up; some stores will even give you a discount for buying a case! You’ll never have to spend an endless amount of time roaming the aisles again.

For more wines and tips, visit sipsavourshare.com framework

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WE HEART

COLOUR PLAY

Take your dĂŠcor cues from the world of fashion with runwayinspired art BY AMELIA EICHHOLZ

This spring there is no fashion trend I'm more excited to experiment with than mixing unexpected, bold colours. I've spent the last few wintery months daydreaming of combining watermelon pinks and chartreuse. Taking inspiration from the runway, Diane Von Furstenberg's spring collection is filled with sophisticated, thoughtful color combinations like this ensemble: a bright turquoise top, flowy lilac skirt, and fuchsia heels. The whimsical shapes and playful color palettes are a direct reflection of DVF's femininity and giddy youthfulness.

Top: "Smelly Yellow" 2012, painting by Diana Delgado

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG S13

ON THE RUNWAY

Check out paintings by abstract artists who are drawn to clever, bright colour combinations and large-scale geometric shapes like Manhattanbased artist, Diana Delgado.

Although the use of strong colour is the main priority in her pieces, her confident mark making, loose forms, and pattern play are important as well. "Smelly Yellow" would be the perfect conversation piece to have in a mostly grey living room. The unexpected coral and chartreuse pairing adds a nice level of interest to a neutral space. Also, Diana’s paintings have an underlying theme of fashion and glamour; this artist is fully aware of style trends and knows how to successfully incorporate them into her work.

Top: "Floral Doodle" illustration archival print, by Jo Chambers Bottom: "My Little Pony" 2011, painting by Diana Delgado

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG S13

ON YOUR WALLS

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG S13

CULTURE & LIVING

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Makeup Artist & beauty expert

Jessica W. Noujeim teaches us how to play with

pastels for a

runway-inspired spring look .

beauty school PASTEL POPS 20

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by Jessica W. Noujeim

BEAUTY

This month, The Framework Girl's beauty regime IS ALL ABOUT FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION, SWEET POPS OF COLOUR, AND TRYING NEW STYLES WHILE EMBRACING HER NATURAL ASSETS.

THE PALETTE Spring is synonymous with flowery hues—mint green, dainty lavender, baby pink, robin's egg blue, and butter yellow. The best thing about these colours is that they all complement each other!

The key to working with a spring palette is to pick two shades and incorporate them in different areas of your look. We chose to focus on vibrant green and pale yellow.

EYES A wash of two shimmery eyeshadows all over the lid from lashline to browbone— balanced with several coats of black mascara—looks effortlessly pretty and makes your eyes pop.

Use a brighter shade in the inner corners of the eye, and a darker shade on the outer half.

TIP: WHEN TRYING TO ACHIEVE A SOFT, PASTEL EYE, CHOOSE EYESHADOW TWO OR THREE TIMES MORE VIBRANT THAN YOU ENVISION. USING SHADOW THAT'S TOO PALE WILL END UP LOOKING BRUISED AND WASHED OUT. PRODUCT PICKS: 1. 88 Shimmer palette $11, BH Cosmetics

1.

2. Kat Von D 'Ludwig' 2.

palette (Orbi & Dimebag shadows) $41, Sephora

NAILS We love this sunshine yellow nail polish! Yellow is an easy shade to brighten up your winter-tospring transition wardrobe, and the colour pops on all skin tones.

TIP: TO PREP YOUR HANDS FOR A PERFECT AT-HOME MANI, DO A QUICK AND EASY EXFOLIATION USING HALF A CUP OF COCONUT OR OLIVE OIL AND 1 CUP OF BROWN SUGAR. THIS LIGHT SCRUB REMOVES DEAD SKIN, PLUS KEEPS YOUR HANDS FEELING INCREDIBLY SOFT FOR DAYS! 2.

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PRODUCT PICKS: 1. China Glaze 'Lemon Fizz' $8.25, Nailpolish Canada 2. Buttercup Nail Polish $4 ea or 3/$10, Joe Fresh

LIPS A pink lip is classic for spring and won’t compete with the rest of your makeup. Dare to wear a shade more "bubblegum" than you're used to—baby pink works well with strong, bold eyes and lighter looks for the daytime.

TIP: IF YOU’RE USING SHIMMER SHADOW, STICK WITH A MATTE OR SATIN LIP COLOUR. OR, SWITCH IT UP WITH MATTE SHADOW AND A GLOSSY PINK LIP. THE CONTRAST IN FINISH KEEPS THE LOOK PERFECTLY BALANCED AND FRESH. 1.

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PRODUCT PICKS: 1. Barry M Lip Paint in '100-Baby Pink'

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$8, Asos 2. Bourjois Paris Sweet Kiss Naturel Lipstick in 'Rose Innocence' $25, Yesstyle 3. Lip gloss in 'Sugar Plum' $8, Joe Fresh A Framework Editor's Pick!

BEAUTY CLICK HERE TO SEND US YOUR BEAUTY QUESTIONS & TELL US WHAT YOU'D LIKE TO SEE IN THE NEXT EDITION OF BEAUTY SCHOOL. OR, TWEET US @FRAMEWORKMAG

HAIR Stash the flatiron and roll right out of bed – natural hair is the way to go this March! We challenge you to embrace your hair's texture and find new ways to work with your natural style. Try a deep side part, or switch the direction of your current part. Throw your hair back in a high ponytail if you always wear it down, or add a hair accessory.

RUNWAY TO REALITY:

TIP:

PRODUCT PICKS:

INVEST IN A GOOD HAIR SERUM TO KEEP YOUR ENDS LOOKING SHINY AND HEALTHY

One quick and easy style spotted on the spring runways is a low, disheveled braid. Gather your hair to the side and create a normal three-strand braid, securing the ends with a clear elastic. Pull out pieces from either side of the braid to fluff it up—flyaways are OK! Throw on a patterned scarf and your favourite necklace, and this look goes from schlumpy to super-chic!

Pureology Precious Oil Versatile Caring Oil $40, Amazon

{

behind the BRAND

}

Farima Hakkak | la couleur couture

WRITTEN BY JULIA DILWORTH PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY JUDE LEE

MESSAGE ON A BOTTLE. OLIVE, UNLIKE SO MANY BEAUTY PRODUCTS OUT THERE, THE VANCOUVERBASED NAIL POLISH LINE LA COULEUR COUTURE HAS GOT HEART. THOUGHTFUL, DOWN TO THE LAST NON-TOXIC INGREDIENT, EVEN LA CC’S LOGO — WINGS IN THE SHAPE OF A HEART — HAS MEANING. The Iranian-born and San Francisco-raised creator Farima Hakkak came from a loving, but protective family, and grew up living a very sheltered life.

“I always tried to do the right thing and did as I was told,” she says, and the week she graduated from her masters program in international business was the same week she married and moved to Vancouver. “I didn't want to get married, because even though I was old fashioned, I had a free spirit — and I wanted to get married only when I found my soul mate.”

However, Hakkak was under a lot of pressure from her family and gave in to her parents’ wishes. “I was always taken care of. First, by my parents and it continued in my marriage. But my soul was suffering and I didn’t know who I was.”

Farima did know that she had always wanted more. She wanted to be able to make her own decisions, be independent and be a good example for her sons, now 10 and 18.

“I did not want to be controlled.”

This is why on la cc’s glass bottles you can see wings, spread in the shape of a heart. The day she made the decision to be free and leave her

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I WAS FINALLY TRUE TO MY HEART AND AS A RESULT — I GOT MY WINGS BACK.

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unhappy marriage, was the day she found herself.

“I (was) finally true to my heart and as a result — I got my wings back.”

One afternoon back in August 2009, the Vancouverite was chatting with her sister-in-law, owner of a beauty company, about there being scant options for quality polish at an affordable price. Hakkak suggested the two partner-up and create just such a polish line themselves, but her sister-in-law had another idea.

“She said to me, ‘Why don’t you start it on your own?’ That was the ‘Aha’ moment for me,” explains Farima. “I thought to myself, wow, I could do it. I would love to make the most highend nail polish without any toxins and (make it) affordable for everybody.”

own business, but she enjoyed every bit of it.

“When I look back … I feel like this whole journey was already planned out for me and I just followed the path.” fw

FRAMEWORK EDITOR'S PICKS LA COULEUR COUTURE

Fast-forward a few years later, and the entrepreneur’s la couleur couture is launches this month with its premier collection of veganfriendly, non-toxic and UV protecting nail varnish, available at laccbeauty.com.

For Hakkak it was a tough road to get to this point, gaining her independence and starting her

Colours from left: 1964, 1992, 2011, 1972 | $14 ea

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FASH

1O1 ION THE MODERN GIRL'S GUIDE TO

MONOCHROMATIC DRESSING The Spring / Summer 2013 runways were full of headto-toe monochromatic looks in bright, bold colours.

We know just how overwhelming this look can be so we’ve created three outfits with the Framework Girl in mind. Choosing primary colours yellow and blue, as well as Framework favorite, coral, we show you just how wearable the monochromatic look can be.

WRITTEN & STYLED BY JENNIFER PISTOR PHOTOS BY FM PHOTOGRAPHICS | MODELED BY ALISON HUTCHINSON OF STYLING MY LIFE

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NOT SO MELLOW YELLOW Yellow is one of the happiest colours and it’s a great way to kick off Spring. While we enjoy this happy hue, nobody wants to take their style cues from an oddly shaped piece of fruit. The right mix of layers and texture will keep you chic without the Chiquita banana.

TEXTURIZE To break things up a bit be sure to incorporate an element of visual interest like texture. This cozy sweater is the perfect layering piece over a chiffon blouse and slim legged jean. It keeps you warm but lets you shine bright.

ADD PERSONALITY Who says you have to sacrifice fashion for function? A large carry-all bag and a comfortable pair of wedges are perfect for running weekend errands or for Sunday brunch. Have fun with your accessories by adding a whimsical pair of earrings to your outfit.

OUTFIT DETAILS Sweater ($29), blouse ($39), and jeans ($19) from Joe Fresh, Melie Bianco “Miley” bag ($110), Miz Mooz “Yogi” wedge shoe ($145) both from Miz Mooz, “Esperanza” Earrings from World Hippie Originals ($15)

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CORAL CRUSH Coral appears every spring, and for good reason; the right shade adds an instant glow to your complexion! To refresh this surefire hue, we’re layering coral on coral for an updated mix.

LAYER ON THE LUXE Framework Girls love yummy fabrics like silk and cashmere. Pair them together for an effortless, city chic ensemble. Layering fabrics with different hands (fashion-speak for how a textile feels) is a great way to get monochrome dressing just right.

SHADE MIXING To give some depth to your outfit try going a shade or two darker with your bag and shoes. Add a bit of edge to this pretty look by choosing a large studded clutch.

OUTFIT DETAILS

Shirt-dress ($79), Scarf ($12), Flower resin bracelet ($14) all from Joe Fresh, Autumn Cashmere sweater ($275) from Wear Else, Melie Bianco “Zeta” clutch ($80), and “Katniss” flame wedge shoe ($140) both from Miz Mooz, Gold Woodgrain stud earrings ($18) by World Hippie Originals

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ROYAL BLUE CUES If you think that bright, colourful, head to toe looks are reserved for play, try this rich, royal blue for a more refined approach. A slightly more neutral hue in the colour spectrum, blue is a perfect starting point for those nervous to try this trend.

SOPHISTICATED LADY A fabulous, patterned sheath and a pretty pair of heels scream sophistication. Layering on a soft cardigan, skinny belt, and gold jewelry will give you an ultra-femme flair.

GORGEOUS GAMS The Framework Girl believes that a lady like ensemble paired with some killer heels equals pure perfection.

Select some royal blue shoes to complete your look and show off those fabulous legs.

OUTFIT DETAILS

Alice + Olivia dress ($460), Cole Hahn “Jitney” zip bag ($135), Brave Leather belt ($70) all from Wear Else, “Addina” Inwear cardigan ($99) from The Urban Rack, Shoes ($5) from Ardene, Necklace ($7) from Forever 21, Bangles stylist’s own

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"There is nothing I don't love about this cheetah print clutch.

'MEOW!"

"A perfect alternative to the requisite little black bag, I am head-overheels for this tan showstopper."

"Le croc, c'est chic. I'd wear this embossed little number with, well everything!"

THE TRANSFORMER

Maddy

EDITOR'S PICKS FROM STATEMENT-MAKING TO EVERYDAY STAPLE, BRIA SHARES HER MUST-HAVE BAGS FOR SPRING FROM LLOYD & WOLF COUTURE

THE LUXE CLASSIC

Phoebe WIN

YOUR VERY OWN PHOEBE BAG in DUSK FROM LLOYD & WOLF! CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS "The hint of pink in this dusky hue is so striking, I'd pair it with a white blouse and dark denim for an effortless ensemble.

SPONSORED BY LLOYD & WOLF

"Everyone should own at least one classic carryall - but that doesn't mean it can't have a hint of edge!"

STYLE

T H E F RA M EW O R K G I R L

SPRING 2013 TRENDGUIDE B Y R H YA J O H N S T O N - W A L L A C E

Each year as the days get longer and the sun creeps out from behind the clouds, we ponder what spring will hold for us. An exciting adventure? A new man? A fairy godmother descending from the sky to grant all of our wildest wishes? Perhaps.

However the one thing we can expect with certainty from spring is a multitude of new trends to try. A wise man by the name of Yves Saint Laurent once said: “Fashions fade, style is eternal�.

And while you may not be a faux-fur-bearing, fashion weekgoing voguette, with a little help from us, you can tailor each one of these top trends to suit your personal style and make them work for you.

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THE TREND:

BLACK&WHITE MARC JACOBS S/S 2013

From bold print mixing to graphic minimalism, the laws of attraction are put into play with contrasting blacks and whites....

FEELING FASHIONABLE TOP, H&M, $59

PANTS, TOPSHOP, $65

PUMPS, ALDO, $80

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STYLE KEEPING IT C ASUAL T BY ALEXANDER WANG SWEATER, NET-A-PORTER, $190

T E S T I N G T H E W AT E R S FEDORA, TOPSHOP, $50

AXELLE DENIM JACKET, ALL SAINTS, $255

DRESS, TOPSHOP, $76

RAG & BONE BOOTS, SHOPBOP, $525

DOLCE VITA SMOKING FLATS, ELUXE, $100 RAG & BONE JEGGINGS, SHOPBOP, $286

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THE TREND:

SPORTY CHIC Athletic-inspired pieces for spring are meant to be worn anywhere but the gym...

FEELING FASHIONABLE ZOE KARSSEN SWEATSHIRT, NET-A-PORTER, $125

BONNIE JONAS NECKLACE, NORDSTROM, $26

RAG & BONE S/S 2013

DAY BIRGER ET MIKKELSEN PANTS, NET-A-PORTER, $180

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DIANE VON FURSTENBERG WEDGES, SHOPBOP, $295

STYLE KEEPING IT C ASUAL

T E S T I N G T H E W ATSTYLE ERS

LEATHER CAP, ASOS, $38

KELLY WEARSTLER CUFF, SHOPBOP, $145

T BY ALEXANDER WANG BOMBER JACKET, NET-A-PORTER, $340

WILFRED FREE BASEBALL TEE, ARITZIA, $50

REBECCA MINKOFF BAG, SHOPBOP, $395 DRESS, TOPSHOP, $52

JENNI KAYNE SUEDE FLATS, SHOPBOP, $450

SUPERGA SNEAKERS , SHOPBOP, $65

FREE PEOPLE CROPPED JEANS, ELUXE, $88

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THE TREND:

PRINT PARTY MARY KATRANTZOU S/S 2013

Use the season’s hottest prints to make every look come alive...

FEELING FASHIONABLE SURRREALIST CLOVER CANYON DRESS, SHOPBOP, $207

HIVE & HONEY BRACELET, PIPERLIME, $28

HEELS, ASOS, $55

CC SKYE CLUTCH, SHOPBOP, $275

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STYLE KEEPING IT C ASUAL FLORAL FRENZY

T E S T I N G T H E W AT E R S C A M O F L AG E POM POM FLOWER, BAN.DO $15

DENIM JACKET, J.CREW, $178

CURRENT/ELLIOTT TEE, NET-A-PORTER, $118

TALULA BLOUSE, ARITZIA, $50

RAG & BONE CARGO JEANS, SHOPBOP, $253

FAUX SUEDE PUMPS, TOPSHOP, $116

7 FOR ALL MANKIND PRINTED JEANS, NORDSTROM, $189

REBECCA MINKOFF FLATS, SHOPBOP, $225

DESIGNED

forL I V I N G PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYRANI KANAVAROS MAKEUP BY CHARRISSE MAE | HAIR BY KARA GILBERTSON TEXT BY BRIA LEAR

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JENNIFER SCOTT MEGAN BAKER

&

are gals you want in your little black book… The design duo behind AGCTK—a moniker for their clever company name, A Good Chick To Know—are equally equipped to renovate and style your home as they are to revamp your wardrobe. Fresh off their first night as celebrity experts on the HGTV mainstage at this year’s Vancouver Home and Garden Show, we met with the girls for the lowdown on creating a space with personality.

With an exclusive look at both Jennifer and Megan’s East Vancouver abodes, read on as they share their best tips for growing a business, buying vintage, and finding your design style. Witty, charming, and above all, relatable, we’re not surprised that AGCTK’s star is on the rise.

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A GOOD CHICK TO KNOW OFFERS THE COMPLETE PACKAGE IN DISCOVERING AND EXHIBITING PERSONAL STYLE; HOW DID THE COMPANY GET STARTED?

J: Soon after I launched the company, I put it out there that A Good Chick To Know also does interiors. I’m not formally trained in interior design, but to me the principles are the same—if you can style an outfit you can style a room—and my J: My background is in fashion, garage was already full of design and when I went on maternity projects. Right away someone leave about 3 years ago I knew I called, we got our first job, didn’t want to work for someone and the press we’ve been lucky else anymore. I started the enough to receive has turned company to offer personal it into a fully-fledged design wardrobe styling, which I’d company. We hardly do any already done on a commercial fashion anymore; we still offer level, but I wanted to do it on a it, but we don’t have the time to personal level for the everyday take on a lot of those jobs. woman.

WE LOVE THE NAME— HOW DID THE FASHION IT’S SO TRUE! HOW DID AND INTERIOR DESIGN THE TWO OF YOU MEET? COME TOGETHER UNDER ONE UMBRELLA? M: We met through a mutual

friend, Clint, who owns our favourite vintage store in the city—Space Lab. I had just moved here; it was my first day in Vancouver and I had stopped into the store to check things out. A few weeks later I was back at the store again when Jenn called Clint to come help her on a project. He turned to me and said, “Okay come on!”

J: Clint kept telling me about this girl who reminded him of a younger version of me. I was just so put off that he thought I was old that I didn’t want to meet her! When Megan came with him to help with that project I couldn’t help thinking, “Hm—I really don’t want to like this girl, but she’s kind of awesome. And she kind of has really good ideas… I would have

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SMILE, BE FRIENDLY, AND BRING COFFEE AND BEER. THE PEOPLE YOU WORK WITH WILL BE THERE FOR YOU

done that exact same thing.

Okay, this girl’s awesome!”

TOO FUNNY! AND THE REST IS HISTORY? J: It was the perfect time to have met Megan. My previous business partner and I were looking to bring on a few designers anyway. Between playing with different dynamics and figuring out where to take the company, my business partner departed and we worked it down to just Megan and I. We make a great duo.

M: We both want to do the same things, and we have the same lifestyle goals. We mesh well and it’s always fun.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR TEAM DYNAMIC… J: Our styles and personalities work really well together. It’s easy to take on projects together or separately; there’s a similar aesthetic. We’re also both pretty type A. M: But you kind of have to be in this industry. Our differences also work together. We each have our own strengths and things that are more important to each of us when it comes to design, which means every detail on a project gets equal attention.

J: Exactly. We play off each other but we don’t compete.

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DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR PEOPLE STARTING THEIR OWN VENTURES? framework

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J: Smile, be friendly, and bring coffee and beer; the people you work with will be there for you.

Honestly, this business was built on making strong relationships.

It’s important because those people take care of you—if we have thirty dollars left and need a ton of stuff, they’ll help us out because they know it will come back to them in the next project.

A Good Chick to Know is a design duo, but our extended family encompasses all the people we work with.

M: You have to come from somewhere that’s really strong first, and then branch out.

Everyone’s networks are getting smaller again, I think, because they were uncomfortably large, and uncomfortably global.

We have dinner on Sunday

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nights with people we might be working with on Monday morning. It makes it fun to work!

LET’S BACK UP A BIT— GROWING UP DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO BECOME DESIGNERS? J: When I was five I said I wanted to be an interior designer when I grew up. I was very creative but I didn’t like the details, and my family sort of discouraged me from the field by saying, “Oh you need a lot of math for that.” So I went into fashion and styling.

M: I always wanted to be an interior designer. There’s nothing else that would have made sense—I’d be terrible at

any other job! I feel so lucky to have found a passion without looking for it. I have friends and family members that don’t know still, and aren’t satisfied. It’s hard because their lives end up a bit more compartmentalized, whereas I find for both Jenn and I there is no separation between work and fun and life. Every day is just great.

WHAT IS YOUR EARLIEST CREATIVE MEMORY? M: My mom and I would be watching Lynette Jennings—yes there was peach involved—and Bob Vila on “This Old House,” and we’d start making things along with them.

J: I used to cut all my dolls’ hair.

That was my first creative outlet

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besides colouring.

M: I remember discovering you could cut layers on Barbie hair, if you just lay them down really flat! Sorry Pocahontas…

AN INDICATION OF YOUR AFFINITY FOR DIY PROJECTS, PERHAPS? WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT WITH A GOOD CHICK TO KNOW? M: Yesterday, speaking on the main stage for the BC Home and Garden show. It came with a lot of positive press and networking that I didn’t expect—I was too busy thinking about our speech!

J: We were asked to be celebrity guest speakers for the entire weekend—that’s really exciting.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT TO DATE… J: My favourite was Mona’s place, the project we met on.

It’s a beautiful penthouse loft, with three bedrooms, a den, a massive rooftop patio and wraparound balcony. I had our friend Clint from Space Lab make a lot of custom pieces like sliding barn doors and reclaimed wood benches. It was a really hands-on project for me and I helped Clint build a lot of the pieces. My style is really industrial, and we even beat up the brand new hardwood floors—it worked perfectly in this space.

M: This is my favourite as well.

Mona is kind of an ongoing client, and she’s not afraid of anything. She’s on top of what’s happening in design and she wants to try the newest and latest and greatest. It’s a lot of fun!

IT SOUNDS AMAZING! WE LOVE BOTH YOUR SPACES AS WELL; CAN YOU SHARE THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR OWN HOMES’ DÉCOR? M: With my own home, my inspiration changes faster than I can change my space, so it’s a bit of a blended idea. It’s also a test-space; I try things out in my own home that I wouldn’t try at a client’s house since I don’t know if it will work yet. Right now I’m into glamour, but it has a studio-work-space feeling. It has no storage, so everything is out in the open, which kind of freaked me out at first, but now I love it because I use everything and you can see what I do.

J: Moving to this house was due to a separation from my husband, so it’s a very selfish inspiration to be honest. I have so many things that I love, that represent me, and that have meant something to me, piled into this space. It was just about creating a place that would really give me the strength to feel confident in myself, to be comfortable, and to come home feeling like it’s my sanctuary.

That is something I hadn’t really had before.

CULTURE & LIVING M: It looks like your best you, so I think it’s really working out.

WHAT ARE YOUR MOST TREASURED POSSESSIONS? J: From a décor standpoint, probably the massive vintage horse track picture above my sofa. For fashion, a beat up old denim jacket, and a gray leather jacket with tassels that looks like something Elvis would wear if he rode a motorcycle.

M: The first thing that came to mind was a piece of jewelry, but it’s probably the giant map I bought at a garage sale as a kid.

It covers the entire wall, and a new apartment doesn’t feel like home until I’ve put it up.

A LOT OF YOUR PROJECTS COMBINE VINTAGE WITH NEW ITEMS; HOW DO YOU ACHIEVE THE PERFECT BALANCE? J: In terms of shopping, we usually choose new beds and couches. It’s about quality and comfort and durability—they’re more expensive and you want to know they’ll last a long time.

M: With those pieces, I find most people also want to have a more modern shape—a new classic, neutral and streamlined.

Where we tend to have a lot more fun and buy vintage is with the accessories, the side pieces, the art, and the lighting.

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CULTURE & LIVING matching, and injecting your personality into your space; a lot of that comes from vintage accessories. But, you need to commit fully—look at my place!

If I took down half of this stuff it wouldn’t work, it would just look strange.

M: Exactly, it would be too timid. There’s no perfect balance, but you have to be confident in your personality, commit to it, and decorate in the same way.

IN VANCOUVER, WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO SCORE VINTAGE GEMS? J: Space Lab and Refind.

M: By far. They always have exactly what we want before we know we want it.

J: And if they don’t, they get it for us or they make it for us. We have a great connection with them and they are so helpful!

WHEN YOU’RE DESIGNING A SPACE, HOW DO YOU DECODE THE CLIENT’S PERSONAL STYLE? J: It’s more about decoding their lifestyle needs so we can figure out how to make a space work for them. How you live creates your style. It doesn’t mean it defines it, but it’s a major factor in how we interpret it.

M: Clients who hire an interior designer often don’t know their

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style yet, but they know they want one and they know that they like and don’t like certain things. We often get clients to bring us images of rooms they like. They might not know why it appeals to them, but we’ll be able to pick that out to discover their tastes.

trend and easy to find—those things often don’t feel quite the same when you get them home.

J: Right. With images we get them to walk us through what parts of a room work for them, and what parts don’t. That gives us an opportunity to understand what their aesthetic is and apply it to their lifestyle.

J: Personality, life, books, art.

Everyone is trying so hard to get that ‘perfect’ look that there is no life left. I think the biggest mistake people make is buying pieces that are on trend but not right for them.

M: And that’s essentially a style that will stick around because you don’t get sick of it and it’s not frustrating. It works for you, and isn’t a jumble of things you bought because they were on

M: I find—especially in Vancouver—people do not have enough stuff! You’re allowed to put things on the table and hang things on the wall…

FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE, WHAT ELEMENTS ARE MOST PEOPLE MISSING IN THEIR INTERIOR DÉCOR?

SO IN OTHER WORDS, DIVE IN AND START COLLECTING PIECES WE LOVE, EVEN IF WE DON’T HAVE A PLAN? J: Yes! You don’t want to go out and buy your entire gallery wall at once, but often we have to do that for clients. That’s why vintage plays a really big role in our designs. We’re providing people with pieces that already have a story, so they can just build upon that. You don’t want everything to look like you went to a retailer and bought all the artwork they had—that’s the worst! Then it looks even more lifeless than if you had a blank wall.

M: And when you come home, imagine feeling like you’re

THE BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE IS BUYING PIECES THAT ARE ON TREND BUT NOT RIGHT FOR THEM

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walking into a retail store—its not comfortable! People are always planning for the next thing, the next move. Who cares if you’re only going to be in a space for 4 months or a year? That’s your home for that time; set yourself up to be comfortable. Imagine your hair being wrong for four months just because one day you might do this or this… you would never!

DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE? J: Fun, playful, eclectic, full of personality.

M: My thoughts exactly.

NOT EVERYONE HAS A NATURAL EYE FOR DESIGN; WHAT ARE YOUR RULES OF THUMB FOR CREATING A COHESIVE SPACE? J: For me, art layout is really important. People often hang their art too high and too organic. If you want to make a big statement and you only have a few pieces, make it graphic.

If you have six photos lay them out in a grid or in a straight line. Even if the picture frames are different, place all the tops at the same height, or all the bottoms at the same height.

M: Change out all your lighting.

It’s important for creating the mood of the space, and makes everyone feel more comfortable and cozy. If you have a party, your lighting is the twinkly

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sparkle and creates a special atmosphere.

J: People don’t have enough lighting. Purchase a variety of table lamps, floor lamps, and ceiling fixtures, and don’t match them. Don’t be afraid of vintage lighting either!

HOW DO YOU MAKE THE MOST OF A SMALL BUDGET? WHERE SHOULD WE SPEND AND WHERE SHOULD WE SAVE? M: Your bigger pieces like beds and sofas should be the most expensive, relative to your budget. We also start with wallpaper really early on. For the impact you get, it’s not very expensive. While it is going to be one of the more expensive items of the space, just having that amount of pattern makes a striking impact on the wall, gives you something to build off of down the road, and still looks amazing even if you run out of money for some of the little things.

J: If your budget is too tight for a feature wall and you have any strange, awkward nooks, wallpaper those—it gives those weird spaces the strength to work. The rest of a budget trickles down. The last places we go to would be the thrift store for little accessories and fun things. You can get a lot for thirty dollars! Get your expensive items out of the way first so you have the rest of your money to play with, and let

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3 EASY TIPS TO UPDATE YOUR SPACE TODAY 1.

Colourblock your books on your bookshelf. Spread everything out on the floor, and put the books into sections based on the colour of the spines. Then put them back by colour—try stacking them, it makes it more like art than books.

2. Re-hang your art in a grid or linear fashion. Get

out those rulers and line up the tops, the bottoms, or both if you have two rows!

3. Take things out of your cupboards. Items you might

think of as utilitarian can look great when arranged and stored in a visible way. Try putting your cutlery in a short vase, or putting your barware on display.

In the bedroom, group your jewelry on trays.

those fun décor items be pieces you can collect over time.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE DESIGN TRENDS THIS SEASON, AND HOW WOULD YOU SUGGEST TRYING THEM IN OUR OWN HOMES?

approach than a trend.

LASTLY, WHAT STYLE ADVICE SHOULD FRAMEWORK GIRLS FOLLOW?

M: Be confident. Once you know what you like, you can’t overdo it. Love it and own it—that’s real M: We really like repetition. You style. can create a big impact from the J: Exactly—choose things that repetition of small items, like suit you and be confident in a strong grid of artwork, or a your choices. Once you know collection of vases all in a row. what fits you well and makes you look and feel good, make J: I’ve painted stripes on a few it your ‘look’ and be confident different walls, and that is the item that gets repeated. Mix not in that. The same goes for match is also a trend right now, your home. Who cares what’s trending and what other people but we love it all the time and think? fw think it should be more of an

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CHEAT SHEET // MEGAN GUILTY PLEASURE? My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding COFFEE OR TEA? Tea, sometimes FAVOURITE DESIGNER? Philippe Starck CHEAP THRILL? Joe Fresh mascara LISTENING TO? Jay-Z, the original albums ONLINE ADDICTION? Shopping. It’s also a general addiction…

ON THE WEEKEND YOU’LL FIND ME… Working, actually!

CHEAT SHEET // JENNIFER GUILTY PLEASURE? Law & Order: SVU and my Elvis records COFFEE OR TEA? Coffee FAVOURITE DESIGNER? Stella McCartney, for beauty & ethical choices CHEAP THRILL? Riding my motorcycle LISTENING TO? Bob Seger, 70’s rock 'n roll & early 90’s hip hop ONLINE ADDICTION? Twitter ON THE WEEKEND YOU’LL FIND ME… Taking my daughter swimming

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TWO of a KIND An Insider's View of Life Chez Sunny Shum & Paul Melo

P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

S A C H I N

K H O N A

MAKEUP BY JASMINE HOFFMAN | TEXT BY BRIA LEAR

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SUNNY SHUM

and

PAUL MELO

carr y major weight where art and commerce converge. She is a fashion industr y veteran and creator of the recently launched accessories e-boutique, Shut Up I Love This.

He has a background in film and offers multi-media design and consulting through Melo Creative. Together, their professional expertise spans ever ything from trend analysis and style photography to wholesale fashion buying and graphic design. A creative powerhouse?

Most definitely. But, perhaps more notable than this real-life couple’s impressive resumes, are the philosophies they have followed to build a passion-driven life that sacrifices neither style nor values. Spending an afternoon with Sunny and Paul in and around their Yaletown home, we can’t help but be inspired by the warmth and unpretentiousness behind their success.

THIS PAGE & OPPOSITE PAGE: PHOTOS TAKEN AT COMMUNE CAFE

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DID YOU BOTH GROW UP IN VANCOUVER? SUNNY: I was born in Vancouver; however, I spent the majority of my time growing up in Richmond, BC. PAUL: I’m a small town boy from Ontario; I moved to Vancouver about 8 years ago.

HOW DID THE TWO OF YOU MEET? S: We kind of sort of met via a mutual friend’s MySpace page!

P: I spotted this gorgeous girl on a friend’s MySpace (remember MySpace?) page. I added her, we chatted online for a couple weeks before meeting in person and the rest is history.

WHAT A GREAT STORY! YOU’RE QUITE A TALENTED, CREATIVE COUPLE; WHAT DO YOU MOST ADMIRE ABOUT EACH OTHER? S: Paul is the most organized person I know. He’s a professional list maker and planner. I am completely the opposite! I admire his ability to never compromise his art, values or ethics when it comes to business; I feel like I’m more compromising in that area.

P: It’s a long list. Most of all I admire Sunny’s kindness and good nature towards all. She never has a bad word to say of anyone and is simply the most respected, well-liked person I’ve ever met. I’ve become a

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better person just by knowing her. From a talent perspective, Sunny is the most stylish person I know and her taste is always on the mark.

heritage home with modern details and furnishings.

S: Becoming a professional Buyer!

WERE YOU ALWAYS DRAWN TO THIS INDUSTRY?

P: Meeting and photographing Bill Cunningham in New York.

SUCH SWEET WORDS—DO YOU HAVE SIMILAR TASTE WHEN IT COMES TO FASHION AND STYLE?

S: Not always. I feel like I fell into it; the fashion business was not on my radar until college.

DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE! HAVE YOU HAD ANY MENTORS ALONG THE WAY?

P: I’ve always been into style more than fashion. I have a love-hate relationship with fashion. I love beautiful clothes, shopping, and magazines, but have no interest in the pretentious side of the fashion world, be it the fashion show scene or silly couture that no one would wear.

S: Not a true one-on-one business mentor. But, I am very fortunate to be surrounded by great friends that inspire me every day; I take away little bits and bites from each of them. I also have the best muse—luckily for me, we live together!

S: It’s fairly similar; seven times out of ten we like the same things. I completely trust his taste when he buys me things. I’m no girly-girl so we compromise well with interior design choices.

P: Our style is more similar than we think; we never try to coordinate, but we often do.

Also, we both share a taste for a mix of old and new… like a

TELL US ABOUT THE MOST MEMORABLE/PINCH ME MOMENT IN YOUR CAREERS?

P: I am a former film industry professional and my life and career were changed when I met my mentor on the set of a big Hollywood feature film. framework

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He brought me into the film industry, gave me my first big break, and taught me more than all of my schooling combined.

He fortified my business sense, and taught me to stand up for what I believe in.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THOSE SPECIAL CONNECTIONS ISN’T IT? BUT LET’S BACK UP A BIT. SUNNY, WHAT IS YOUR FIRST FASHION-RELATED MEMORY? S: When I was a Sales Manager for Miss Sixty—the “it” denim brand in the early 2000’s—I got to travel to Italy for the first time for a sales meeting and then to Koln, Germany to the Bread and Butter trade show for a fashion show. It was amazing!

LIKE MOST FASHIONINDUSTRY INSIDERS, YOU STARTED OUT ON THE RETAIL FLOOR. WHAT DID YOU TAKE FROM THAT EXPERIENCE? S: Retail is not easy and the customer is not always right.

People have to remember that the fashion business is a balance of art and commerce.

FAST FORWARD TO TODAY, YOU’RE A FOOTWEAR AND ACCESSORIES BUYER FOR TOWN SHOES, AND RECENTLY LAUNCHED YOUR OWN E-BOUTIQUE! WAS THIS ALWAYS YOUR GOAL? S: Nope. I had been blogging for some time and I wanted to find a way to leverage my fan base and combine my work experience to create a business.

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THE FASHION BUSINESS IS A BALANCE OF ART AND COMMERCE

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I love jewelry, I had an awesome name, and I had Paul to design the site. It all just worked out.

WE’D LOVE TO KNOW, WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION THAT PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT YOUR JOB AS A BUYER? S: That it’s easy and that it’s as simple as view, pick and buy—it’s so much more! You’re constantly traveling, always in meetings, working under short deadlines, analyzing the business, forecasting trends…

You have to collaborate with several departments and on top of all this you have to write orders and track shipments. At the end of the day, you have to be a professional juggler and wear several hats.

WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO JOIN THE BLOGGING WORLD WITH YOUR FIRST SITE, PARTLY SUNNY?

a fashion or personal style site. I want to offer more, and that’s why I like inserting some personal experiences into my writing.

S: As someone that has insight in the wholesale, retail and buying TELL US MORE ABOUT sectors, I thought starting a blog LAUNCHING SHUT UP I LOVE just made sense. I love sharing THIS, YOUR E-BOUTIQUE… the things I discover.

S: I love jewelry and I believe WE ADMIRE THE WAY YOUR the right accessory should WRITING BLENDS INDUSTRY complete a look, not take it INSIGHT AND EXPERIENCE over. Also, I don’t think that WITH A PERSONAL TWIST. fashion accessories need to be HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN A overly expensive and obnoxious, STORYTELLER? or of poor quality, for them to be coveted. Certain pieces are S: I am actually the worst usually symbolic of something storyteller! Paul is much better to someone, and it always at it. Although my focus is means something different— fashion related, I don’t want that’s one of the main reasons my blogging to be just about why I launched Shut Up I Love that. Everyone seems to have This. I also wanted to provide

“

I DON'T THINK THAT FASHION ACCESSORIES NEED TO BE OVERLY EXPENSIVE AND OBNOXIOUS, OR OF POOR QUALITY, FOR THEM TO BE COVETED.

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a platform for Canadian designers; I think there is room for both independent and major brands to co-exist side by side and for both to perform well equally.

AND PAUL DESIGNED THE SITE; WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO WORK WITH YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER ON SOMETHING BUSINESSRELATED? S: We’ve worked on a couple of other projects together as well. I respect his opinion very much and he’s a great sounding board for me. He’s a more logical thinker and I’m more unstructured so sometimes we butt heads here and there, but who doesn’t?

THAT OFTEN MAKES FOR A BETTER END RESULT! THOUGH YOU HAVE PLENTY OF WHOLESALE AND RETAIL EXPERIENCE WITH TOWN SHOES, WERE YOU NERVOUS TO LAUNCH YOUR OWN VENTURE? S: Yes, I’m nervous with everything I decide to jump into.

I’m funding it out of pocket, and buying for this category is very different. I’m just learning about the online space and it’s very different from physical space retail.

ONLINE RETAIL DEFINITELY PRESENTS A NEW SET OF CHALLENGES. WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN SOURCING PRODUCTS FOR SHUT UP I LOVE THIS?

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SUNNY'S TIPS FOR NEW DESIGNERS Make sure your collection is well rounded.

Double check fit and construction, make sure samples are ready for viewing.

Lock down your production and delivery windows.

Have a great sales person that follows up.

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S: Simply, what I think people will buy and wear. I also look for quality goods and items that are unique. Most importantly, the items on Shut Up I Love This are pieces that can be incorporated into your current wardrobe with ease.

WHAT’S ON YOUR RADAR FOR SPRING 2013?

S: Color and mixing prints. In particular, black, white, teal, yellow, and coral.

WHICH PIECES OR TRENDS ARE YOU MOST EXCITED TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR OWN WARDROBE THIS SEASON? S: I’m on the hunt for a few things! A tuxedo blazer, a

leather motor bomber jacket, the perfect, white button down shirt, a patterned pencil skirt, and a low heel pointed toe pump with an ankle strap.

THAT JUST ABOUT SUMS UP SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE SPRING TRENDS! YOU’RE OFTEN SPOTTED ON PAUL’S STREET STYLE BLOG, STYLEQUOTIENT. HOW HAS YOUR PERSONAL STYLE EVOLVED OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS? S: Good question. I feel my style is way more relaxed and casual chic. I think it’s because as I get older, I want my clothes to be more functional but still fashionable.

PAUL, ARE THERE

ANY ELEMENTS THAT CONSISTENTLY CATCH YOUR EYE FOR NEW STYLEQUOTIENT POSTS? P: I’m attracted to a style as opposed to specific pieces. I’m more likely to shoot someone with a complete look or distinct presence than just a cool hat.

A DISTINCT PRESENCE—WE LIKE THAT! ARE THERE ANY TRENDS OR ITEMS YOU WISH WOULD DISAPPEAR? S: The Anorak jacket needs to go.

P: Well… guys that only wear graphic tees, tees with stupid sayings on them, words across a woman’s rear, Yoga wear outside of Yoga, square toe framework

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COVER STORY shoes, Uggs with hoodies, hoodies over dresses, hoodies under hockey jerseys, the green army jacket-skinny-jeanhipster-toque look.

PAUL, YOUR COMPANY MELOCREATIVE, DOES A LOT OF HIGH-END VISUAL MEDIA AND MARKETING CAMPAIGNS. WHAT’S YOUR DREAM PROJECT? P: That’s a tough one. I think to come into an established magazine like GQ or Esquire and completely redesign and Creative Direct for a year, then move on.

SOUNDS LIKE A WHIRLWIND WE’D LOVE TO SEE. ARE THERE ANY MORE SUNNY AND PAUL COLLABORATIONS IN THE WORKS? S: We’ve talked about a lot of things. You’ll just have to wait and see.

P: No comment!

FAIR ENOUGH, WE’LL BE WAITING! SUNNY, WHAT’S NEXT FOR SHUT UP I LOVE THIS AND WHERE DO YOU SEE IT HEADED DOWN THE ROAD? S: Shut Up I Love This is only a few months old and for me to get a good handle on the business, I need to be running it for at least twelve to sixteen months. If all goes well I’d like to add more handbags to the assortment, as well as men’s jewelry.

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SUNNY AND PAUL'S TOP 5 VANCOUVER HAUNTS Nook (on Denman) Oak & Fort Bel Cafe Parlour Apple Store

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SUNNY'S STYLE TIPS Lighter colored shoes (like blush, camel, beige sand etc) go with most everything and can elongate the appearance of your legs.

Be mindful of the length of coat for your skirt or dress length.You don’t want to look like a flasher or be made to look shorter than you really are.

Subtle exposure of skin is really sexy. If you can pull off sexy with a blouse buttoned to the collar, you’re Superwoman.

Wear at least 2 - 3 jewelry accessories. It’s a great way to enhance your look and people always notice the little details.

Buy shoes that fit properly. It’s very obvious when a pair of heels doesn’t fit well.Your walk, or lack thereof, tells all.

WE’RE CERTAINLY WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST. WHAT WOULD YOU TELL FRAMEWORK GIRLS WANTING TO FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS? S: You want to be a buyer? Know your retail math and maintain good vendor relationships.

They’re worth their weight in gold.

WHEN YOU’RE BOTH NOT BUSY WORKING AND RUNNING YOUR WEBSITES, HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR DOWNTIME? S: At a café or in my bed reading, strolling shops on a nice sunny afternoon, eating—I love food—playing with our dog, researching my next cooking attempt, and thinking up new DIY projects.

P: I love to be at home with my favourite company… Sunny and our little dog Rocco.

IT’S ALL ABOUT LIFE’S SIMPLE PLEASURES! LASTLY, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR TWENTY-FIVE YEAR OLD SELVES?

“

GIVE UP GUILT. ABANDON SHAME. FOLLOW YOUR PASSION NO MATTER HOW MUCH THE WORLD, YOUR PARENTS, OR YOUR ELDERS TELL YOU TO GET A ‘REAL JOB’. DO WHAT YOU LOVE. PERIOD.

S: Stay the course. Don’t believe the hype. Don’t compromise your values and your art.

P: Give up guilt. Abandon shame. Follow your passion no matter how much the world, your parents, or your elders tell you to get a ‘real job’. Do what you love. Period. fw framework

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COVER STORY

CHEATSHEET SUNNY Drink of choice?

Carrot, beet and ginger fresh squeezed juice.

Nickname?

Sunshine or Shumster.

Favourite indulgence?

Chips.

Destination?

Hong Kong.

Words to live by?

The better YOU get, the better IT gets.

Sweet or savoury?

Savour y My home is…

Where ever Paul is.

PAUL

PHOTO TAKEN AT COMMUNE CAFE

Drink of choice?

Coca Cola Nickname?

MELO Favourite indulgence?

Coca Cola Destination?

Palm Springs Words to live by?

You can’t soar like an eagle if you fly with turkeys.

Sweet or savoury?

Sweet My home is…

Where Sunny is next to me.

BLOGGERPANEL spring favourites edition

TOP TREND TO TRY THIS SEASON?

I can’t wait to add more florals to my wardrobe!

FAVOURITE NEW SPRING HUE?

Mint! I love the way it screams spring, but can also be paired with bolder colors.

CRYSTALIN AN | inthecitywithcrystalin

MOST TREASURED EASTER TRADITION?

My mom still fills eggs with treats and money. We still do the Easter egg hunt before we have lunch as a family.

IN MARCH I PLAN TO...

Finish decorating my office. It’s been a work in progress and I think we’re almost there!

TOP TREND TO TRY THIS SEASON?

The monochromatic look featured on the Gucci and Stella McCartney runways has to be one of my favorites. A solid colour from head to toe is such a simple and easy look to pull off and makes a statement.

FAVOURITE NEW SPRING HUE?

Lemon zest yellow and Poppy red! They’re both great ways to add a fresh and bold pop of colour to a wardrobe this spring.

MOST TREASURED EASTER TRADITION?

I don't celebrate Easter, but I look forward to the change of season and taking advantage of the time off to spend time with family. And of course I’m excited to hit the shops for a new spring wardrobe.

IN MARCH I PLAN TO...

Go away on a much needed vacation to vegetate, wind down and shop.

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framework

TASH LIBORIO | style-isle

PANEL Want to appear in next month's blogger panel? Tweet us at @FrameworkMag #BloggerPanel

TOP TREND TO TRY THIS SEASON?

I love all of the beautiful, embellished pieces for spring—bright colors and lots of beading!

FAVOURITE NEW SPRING HUE?

Mint green. Equipment makes a beautiful mint button down I've been eyeing for awhile!

KRYSTAL SCHLEGEL | krystalschlegel

MOST TREASURED EASTER TRADITION?

My family still does egg hunts and decorates eggs even though we are all grown up! It's a fun time to spend together and act like kids. We also go to the Easter church service together every year.

IN MARCH I PLAN TO...

spend more time visiting New York City landmarks. It's been freezing since I moved here, but March will be the perfect time to explore the city outdoors.

TOP TREND TO TRY THIS SEASON?

Barely there ruffles. I love a great dress with a hint of ruffles along the sleeve. So romantic!

FAVOURITE NEW SPRING HUE?

Mint—it’s so refreshing!

MOST TREASURED EASTER TRADITION?

LYNZY CAREY | sparklingfootsteps

Easter egg hunting. You are never too old!

IN MARCH I PLAN TO...

Plan our trip with some friends to Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park. I can’t wait; we love adventures!

framework

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