Photo by Dee Sinner Photography Model Tessa McAllister
Letter from the Editor
Can we all just let out a collective ‘woot’ that Summer is finally here? Now that June is upon us, it’s time to not only head to the beach, but to take part in the various summer events that are happening in your community! Whether its to a huge concert or a simple family day, you should make your way to one. After all, that’s pretty much the best part of summer. One such event is being hosted by us, but you won’t know that until sometime between now and the next issue. Which reminds me, if you are really interested in Fashion, be sure to check out this month’s awesome articles! One of the biggest things about summer are the risks from prolonged sun exposure that come with the changing of the seasons. Isn’t that always the way though? We finally get used to one skin protection regiment and BAM! We need to start another one. Awwh! Of course, with summertime, comes summer romance! As Sandy and Danny showed us, that summer loving can be a blast. If you want it to last, though, it takes some really hard work. Having recently made the appropriate changes to the company, we are pleased to announce that we are going to be doing some big things in the near future. One such thing is called Braided Hearts, a foundation we’re creating to support struggling women. We believe that when a girl is going through emotional trauma, the best people to make her feel better are her best friends. That being said, we will become your best friends through out the course of this. We will be launching in a little while and can’t wait to begin! Well that’s it for this month, as always, stay beautiful!
Lilly
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CONTENTS
STAFF
Editor in Chief: Lilly Babineau
Assistant: Erica Chevarie Executive Directors of Operations:
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Kristina Mallet, Candace Bazowsky Beauty Director: Kristina Mallet Fashion Director: Candace Bazowsky Photographers: Ed Bowron, Wade Carrier. Dee Sinner. Hairstylists: Kandas Michaud, Melanie Smith-Lear, Amanda Braun, Kristina Mallet Makeup Artists: Stephanie Carson Contributors: Scott McLean Staff Writers: Melanie McLean, Sarah Racicot, Kristina Mallet, Kiki Landry Jennifer Richard, Elizabeth McClelland.
STEPHANIE CARSON MAKEUP ARTIST OWNER OF CLASSIQUE BEAUTY FIND HER ONLINE AT: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CLASSIQUEBEAUTY OR CALL: (506) 229-2126
KRISTINA MALLET HAIRSTYLIST / MAKEUP ARTIST COSMETOLOGIST AT JEAN COUTU FIND HER ON FACEBOOK AT: KRISTINA MALLET - BEAUTY CONSULTANT OR EMAIL KRISTINA@PINKBLITZ.COM
Wellness
Protecting Your Skin ThisbySummer Jennifer Richard Summer is coming, and that means the flip flops will be out with the short shorts, tank tops, beach waves, and sun kissed skin. Exposure from the sun for prolonged periods of time can lead to aging skin, wrinkles, dry skin, sun spots, and the dangers of skin cancer. Sun in moderation is key, after all, it’s a fabulous source or Vitamin D; after this Winter, I think we can all agree that our levels are down!
body is working more, you’re sweating, and you need to replenish your body with the water it is losing. This will make sure your skin doesn’t dry out or start peeling. Try to stay out of the sun between the hours of 10am and 2pm. This is when the suns’ UV rays are at its strongest and you are most susceptible to sun burns and harmful damage.
Instead of worrying about how long you’ll be out in Finally, always, always replenish your sunscreen the sun, or how much exposure you’ve had, try a few of throughout the day. We tend to sweat, work, or swim these tips to keep your delicate skin protected from the it off. suns’ harsh rays. First and foremost, you want to make sure that you and your loved ones are sporting a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 15. Remember that not all sunscreens are made the same, so do a little research for your particular needs before you make a big purchase. Every member of your family might need a different SPF so make sure that you cater to those needs. If you’re going to the beach or the pool, consider what you’re wearing before you head out. Tightly woven clothing actually offers more sun protection than say a cotton t-shirt. Stick with light colors as well, since darker colors will attract the suns’ powerful beams. Wear a hat if you’re going to be sitting out, especially if you have fair skin. A hat with a wide brim should shadow your face and a sizeable portion of your body. Make sure your little ones are wearing hats too! Wear sunglasses. Not only will this shield your eyes from the sun, it will also protect the delicate skin around them. Keep yourself hydrated. This should be a given anyhow, but especially in the Summer time. You’re hotter, your
Photo by Wade Carrier Model Rachel Ladham
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Wellness
Speedy Workouts by Jennifer Richard Summer is right around the corner (Right? RIGHT?!) and whether you start now, or then, you don’t want to waste a ton of time being in the gym when you could be outside soaking up the sun. Research has proven that short, intense bursts of exercise are much, much more effective than long workouts. Here are some super speedy exercises that you can do to get you tighter, more toned, and bathing suit ready! Not everybody knows that your “core” involves your abs, hips, and back, so you want to be sure to work out all three. Start with some plain ol’ sit ups and rep by 20. Then, add a twist and do 20 more reps. Laying on your side, do some leg lifts. 40 reps per leg should get you feeling a burn. Once you’ve completed your leg lifts, turn these into a side plank and hold for 30 seconds per side. Next, lay on your stomach and do 20 back extensions with both of your hands behind your head. To kick it up a notch, try doing some with the opposite arm and leg suspended, 10 per side. Plank exercises work out your abs and back as well, so start with 30 second sets, and repeat for 3-5 reps. You’ll eventually be able to work yourself up to longer holds. Once complete, make sure to stretch for 10 minutes as a cool down. Of course you want to work your butt too, tighten that fanny! Your glutes are your strongest muscles, and by working them out, you’re also, by extension (literally) working your quads, hamstrings, and calves. Who doesn’t want smokin’ hot legs? Try this circuit twice; starting with a 5 minute run. (In place, on a treadmill, outside, whichever you like!) Do 20 squats, 20 Sumo squats, 20 squats per leg while having one leg on a step, placing a ball behind your lower back for support, do 20 more squats, and then for good measure, throw in some lunges, 20 per leg. Once you’ve completed this, stretch again, for 5 minutes or so, but make sure to focus on your lower half. If you’re like most women, you’re self-conscious about your arms too. Such is the cross most of us have to bear. Tighten your arms, and triceps by doing bench or chair dips. Make sure you have a sturdy piece of furniture to work with and while facing away from it, place your palms flat on its surface and dip, 90 degrees and lift yourself back up to starting position. Do this 15-20 times for 5 reps and breathe. Working out doesn’t have to take hours, nor does it have to take away from your day, you can fit in some of these while out and about, sitting at home, or at the beach!
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Artificial Sweeteners
by Jennifer Richard
Artificial sweeteners were originally designed as a lowcalorie substitution for sugar and can be found in many of the items in your home and the grocery store. Diet sodas, yogurt, fruit drinks, pudding, and gum just to name a few. The sweeteners mimic sugar in that that have a similar flavor but they add no useful energy to your body. Sucralose and aspartame are by far the two most dangerous sugar substitutes out there, and are linked to a myriad of health issues. I, for one, notice when I drink something with aspartame in it that not long after my first sip, I start to get a headache. It’s an additive, and most additives are not good for you. When shopping for your family, try to avoid terms and tags that say things like “low-calorie”, “no sugar added”, “diet”, and “sugar-free”. All of these artificial sweeteners are still on the market and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has done virtually nothing to remove them, though they know of their dangers. The fake stuff messes with your hormones. Your body still tastes the sweet and reacts to that, releasing insulin as though you had ingested sugar, which leads to blood sugar spikes. Bad news. The artificial sweeteners also trick your taste buds. Since they’re SO sweet, your taste buds are on overload which can lead them to be desensitized to the flavors of real sugar, be it from fruits or honeys when you have it. Instead of adding sugar or sweetener to your tea, add in some raw honey. It easily replaces Sugar Twin or Sweet and Low and also has a plethora of benefits including relieving sore throats, giving you an energy boost, and is actually more effective at alleviating morning sickness than soda crackers. Maple Sugar and syrup can both replace Splenda and are a great addition to your baking! Date sugar can also be used to replace Aspartame, Equal, and Nutrasweet. Agave nectar is another popular replacement as it offers a large amount of sweetness, meaning a little goes a long way. You have to be careful of where it comes from. It is touted as an amazing substitute, but has also been knocked for being so high in fructose. Due to its high fructose levels, agave syrup has the potential to lead to insulin resistance so you want to look for a high quality, 100% organic nectar or syrup to add to your home before you make the switch.
Wellness
Living with M.S.
by Elizabeth McClelland
MS is a disease that is three times more common in women than it is in men. There isn’t a great deal of information as to why that is the case, but it should have us ladies educating ourselves more on the disease. The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada defines MS as “an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system which is composed of the brain and spinal cord. The disease attacks the myelin which is a protective covering wrapped around the nerves of the central nervous system.” While the cause is still not completely identified, some of the things that may lead to MS are: a genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as certain viruses, Vitamin D deficiency and smoking. More research continues to be done and needs to continue in order to aid those who currently live with this disease and those who will be diagnosed in the future. I connected with Colleen Edwards, a wife and mother of two young children, who has been living with MS for nearly 20 years. I had her answer some questions for us to better understand what it is like for her “Living With MS”. 1. How would you describe MS to people who don’t know much about it? For people who don’t know much about MS, I would describe the disease as entirely unpredictable. Someone with MS might feel relatively well when they wake up, but could develop a debilitating symptom while eating their breakfast. Someone with MS could live nearly symptom free for years and then experience a sudden decline in their health and abilities as their disease progresses. There is no such thing as “typical MS”. No two people with MS will experience the same symptoms or have the same disease course. 2. How long have you been diagnosed with MS? I was diagnosed with MS in 1996, so it has been 19 years
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since my diagnosis. 3. How did you discover you had MS? While riding my bike one summer, I suddenly developed double vision. The double vision lasted about two or three days, which lead to a series of tests and specialist appointments. I was thirteen at that time, and was just about to enter high school. The diagnostic testing and specialist appointments took place over a three year period, before I was given my official diagnosis in 1996. 4. Have your feelings of this diagnosis changed since when you found out to now? How? Since diagnosis, I have experienced a roller-coaster of emotions. My immediate feeling upon diagnosis was pure relief. I was relieved to finally have a name for what I had been experiencing and, I was happy to learn that the doctors didn’t think I was making up these invisible symptoms. Following my initial relief, I felt depression and uncertainty. I worried about what my future would look like. I feared the possibility of losing my sight or being confined to a wheel chair. It took a few years before I was able to register that I was really no different from everyone else. Although I am living with the uncertainly of my disease, I realized that all of us live with some amount of uncertainty in our life, even if we don’t have MS. While I still do experience times of fear and uncertainty, more frequently, I live with gratitude, feeling very thankful for what I do have. 5. What are some of the challenges it brings into your life? One of the biggest challenges I have found, has been asking for and accepting help, or requiring an exception to the norm. My main struggles have always been with fatigue and visual disturbances, neither of which can be seen by others. It is very difficult to ask for help when people comment on how “well” I look and further, having had the disease for many years now, I’m sure that me needing help is getting “old”. I understand that people can become compassion fatigued and therefore, I try not to ask for help until I really
need it. 6. Has it brought any unexpected gifts? Being faced with the reality of losing so many abilities has made me genuinely thankful for the things that the average person might take for granted. Every time I go for a walk, or when my eyes are working normally, I take notice and I am very thankful. 7. Do any of your other family members have MS? When it comes to MS in my family, thus far, I am the only person to have the disease. I continually hope that I remain the only one! 8. You are a mother to two young children. Do you find it challenging to deal with the needs of two young children and MS at the same time? Definitely. Having two young children continually demands more energy than I have in my reserve. Like any new Mom, the sleepless nights were an especially daunting period. Becoming familiar with your “new job” as a mother, a job that you want nothing more than to excel at, seems extra tough when getting out of bed is a struggle each morning. My children are now two years old and ten months old, therefore each day requires a lot of carrying, lifting and chasing. By four o’clock, I am completely exhausted and ready for bed, but the kids are still full of energy! Every mother wishes to give their children the best, but when your eyes are not working properly and you’re running on empty, you often feel at a deficit when trying to give as much as children demand. 9. What are some of the treatments/ways you cope with MS?
I have tried two different disease modifying medications. For eleven years I used an injectable medication, named Betaseron and briefly in between my two pregnancies, I tried a newer medication called Techfidera, which is a pill taken orally. More importantly, I think, I have always tried to eat healthy and follow the motto, “If you don’t use it, you lose it”. I really believe that staying mobile requires being mobile, although I appreciate that that is often easier said than done. 10. You participate in the MS Walk every year. Why is it so important for you to do this? The MS walk is important to me because it brings MS patients together and I believe it generates hope for a cure. I recognize how “lucky” I have been in comparison to some others and I appreciate how a cure cannot be discovered fast enough. I walk for those who cannot walk and for those not yet diagnosed. I genuinely appreciate how terrifying an MS diagnosis can be and I wish for a future that is far more hopeful than terrifying. 11. What is one thing you would want people to know/ remember about MS? People need to know that MS is a predominantly Canadian disease that is quite often “invisible”. You likely know of someone with the disease and up to 90 percent of those with MS suffer from fatigue. Understand that these people are not lazy just because they may look healthy. Those with MS need you to be patient and understanding, at least until we have found a cure. If you are interested in more information about MS, or perhaps want to participate in a walk yourself, please check out their website www.mssociety.ca.
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Beauty
Pros & Cons of False Lashes
By Kristina Mallet With all the rave around big, false eye lashes, it’s hard to not want to wear them all the time. Let’s take a look at a few of the pros and cons of wearing them, so you can make an informed decision of what to wear. First pro: they turn any makeup look from drab to fab instantly. Ever do a makeup look and feel that it needed something? It was probably the eyes. They add that extra touch of glam to your eyes. Con: sometimes it can ruin your makeup if you are not experienced. It is best to practice before you put them on. Try it on a night you’re staying in and looking to try something new. Second pro: It is much easier to handle then eyelashes extension. You don’t have to worry about them getting clumped up, or sleeping on them and messing them up. And you don’t have to worry about washing your face, (which you have to be extra careful if you have eyelash extension) or buying a very special, very expensive mascara. Con: You always have to apply them, as opposed to eyelashes extension, which are always there. Lastly: they are cost effective. They run between 3-8 dollars a pair, and you can reuse them if you clean the glue off with a Q-tip and alcohol. And if you’re just looking for a one time use, this is the most efficient way. Con: If you’re not careful with using them, it can end up being a bit pricey. If you are one to throw them out after a night out, or a photoshoot, you could be wasting your money.
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Model Chantal Hiltz Photo by Edward Bowron
Luminous Skin By Kristina Mallet
With big trends such as highlighting and contouring, dewy skin is hitting big. It is being seen more on red carpets and in videos, so let’s take a walk through on how to achieve that very same look, there are a few steps to take to get there, but it is all worth it. Getting a good serum will help. You can get ones with a pearl affect and it will start your ace out right. It starts by pre-lightening the face. Serum is your first step in any skin care regime, so try not to skip this step. Next, add a moisturizer with a lightening affect. Once that this all dry, move onto your primer. Again, one with a lightening affect will be key here. Most of your products should have this, to get the best results. Applying that all over the face and then apply your foundation and concealer. Next step, you are going to want to do some really good highlighting and contouring. Using a light cream to do this will give you a great effect. Highlight the middle of your forehead, down your nose, under your eyes and cheek bones. Then use your darker color under your cheek bones and around your face, creating an oval shape. Blend it in really well with a blending concealer brush or beauty blender and blend, blend, blend. Finishing off with an illuminating setting powder. Using something lighter where you highlighted, and a darker setting powder where you contoured. Now it is all done, and you get to enjoy your dewy, luminous skin.
Beach Makeup By Kristina Mallet
Beauty
We all want that flawless look, no matter where we are. forget this at home. Using one with an SPF is another Especially the beach. Seems like everyone else around added benefit to your skin had the perfect “beach day” makeup, and here are some Now for the bronzer. You’re going to want to do some tips to having yours done right. natural looking contouring in your cheeks and around Start by putting on a good moisturizer with an SPF of at the face, but use it in place of blush. least 20. This is important for two reasons: 1. the air is different at the beach because of the salt water, so that The sunlight is going to bounce of your skin, and this is will draw out any water that is in your skin, and you a neat trick to already looking tanned. If you were lightneed to use as much SPF as possible, if you don’t want to er, the sun will actually make you look very, very pale, tan your skin (also a great preventative measure against and that is what we are trying to avoid. aging) Now on to the beach with your perfect makeup! Next, use a concealer stick only where you need it. Tiny blemishes, dark circles, but try to avoid caking it on, because you will sweat at the beach and your makeup will come right off. Try to go with a shade that matches your skin, because you’re going to layer on some bronzer after. Get out your powder foundation and use, then be sure to stick it into your bag right away. You do not want to Model Raven Ladham Photo by Edward Bowron
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g i B utiful ea
B & Sexy novan
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o D y e s Ca Hiya Ladies, So I was with my friend Kaz the other day when she said to me “If you could have any talent, what would it be? Oh! That’s right, you already have it.” She was talking about me being a singer. But it got me to thinking about how we always want something we don’t have. Whether it be material, a talent, or anything for that matter, are we truly happy with what we have? I believe we always want more. Now, I’m a big beautiful and sexy woman and proud of it, but naturally we all have our own flaws and are our own worst critics. Every woman at one stage in her life, would like to be seen as the typical Barbie look alike. But what we don’t realise is that we could get ourselves to that stage and still not be happy within ourselves. Our hair wouldn’t be long enough or our boobs are too big or small. Big feet, wrong shaped eye brows and the list goes on. This is the same in general life. I think if people thought more about what they have and less about what they don’t have, their lives would be so much happier. Lets take a look at some instances. Dating. So many men and woman complain about not finding the one that best suits them. You hear people complain that there are no real genuine people left. The truth is, if people weren’t so shallow and want the Ken or the Barbie, they would have thousands to choose from. But in sating that, there has to be a mutual attraction. There is no such thing as a guy/ gal that has 100% the whole package. Whether it be they are missing the sense of humour, the dazzling smile, the six pack, the kind empathetic personality,
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or loyalty, the list goes on. But once again, you can’t have everything. We always want more! The house. A beautiful well kept home. All the up to date in style furnishings, pool out the back and perfectly manicured lawns. But you are missing the extra level, the bi-fold doors that you wished led on to the beach out the back. And the veranda, where is the veranda? We fail to realise that you can’t truly miss what you never had. How boring would life be if everything were the way we wanted? We looked the way we wanted with the click of our fingers. We would then be bored with looking at ourselves, This could expand and branch out into so many levels it makes my head spin thinking about it. It all comes down to us all trying to meet social acceptance and expectations. Everything we do is to make us seem more appealing to everyone else around us and not actually to ourselves. Like do you ever really hear someone say: I wish I were kinder. I wish I were more empathetic. I wish I were loyal? No, you don’t. Because no one cares because they cant see it walking down the street. But what if we reversed everything? What if everything we know were opposites? Like what if slim bodies were seen as a health problem? What if muscles were found as unattractive? As well as tans, makeup, nice cars, good clothes, long hair on woman, short hair on men, perfume and cologne were regarded as body odors? Don’t you think life would be so much simpler? No expectations would be placed on anyone. The only thing to be judged would be a person’s character. Now that sounds damn fine to me! n
Model Tessa McAllister Photo by Dee Sinner Photography
Beauty
Getting Your Glitter On! By Kristina Mallet Isn’t it every girls dream to just be able to sparkle and glitter all the time? Well there is no better time than now to do it! Follow these few simple step below to get that shimmered eye look. Prime your eyes with a good primer. This will help your makeup stay on point all day. There are clear one and colored one to choose from, but the best result will come from a colored one, that is close to your skin. This will eliminate any unwanted undertones in your eyes. Once you have your eyes primed, choose whatever colors you would like for your glittery eyes, and find a complementary color for blending. Usually something a bit darker into the corners of your eyes to really make it stand out. Blend your darker colors in the corner, to about halfway in. Use that same color on the bottom of your eyes and blend it out about one quarter of the way. The best products for this glittery look, are a creamy based, shimmery color. Apply it all over the lid and into the inner corners of your eyes, and use the rest under your eyes, where you didn’t apply the darker colors. Now take a shimmery eyeshadow that is close to the creamy color you choose. Apply that with a brush over the first color and push it in. This will make it pop out, and the color underneath will make it look metallic looking.
Model Talya Morgan Photo by Dee Sinner Photography
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Beauty
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Model Chantal Hiltz Phooto by Dee Sinner Photography
Candy Pink Lips By Kristina Mallet
With so many variations of pink, candy pink lips are in! Whether it be matte, creamy or glossy, here are a few tips for you to use, to get yours! Pink can be such a subtle color without the proper preparations. Start by using our regular foundation or concealer on your lips. You want to neutralize any underlying tones that may affect the color. You can even use a regular nude lip liner if you don’t want to put foundation or concealer on your lips, but don’t apply it too heavy. Next, use a bright pink lip liner. Base it off your skin tone. So if you are warm, use a warm pink. If you’re cool tone, use a cool pink. If you are natural, you can use what you want, as long as it matches your makeup. Be sure to color in your whole lip, and then take a lip liner brush and follow around the outer lip to clean it up. Grab the candy pink that you have decided to use. Apply it with ether a brush or the stick itself, but be careful of your line, try to keep it smooth. If you use a matte color, then you are pretty much done here. If you used a creamy based lipstick, it’s time to get out either a candy pink lip-gloss or a clear lip-gloss. This will add that much need pop of color to your lips and make it have that “candy apple” effect. Voila! You are ready to show the world your lips!
Model Gillian Hubley Photo by Wade Carrier
Model Marianne Daigle Photo by Wade Carrier
LOCAL TATTOO ARTIST
Thomas Maxwell
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MODEL THOMAS MAXWELL PHOTO BY DEE SINNER PHOTOGRAPHY
When I got my first tattoo, I decided then and there to become a tattoo artist. The experience was amazing, sitting there watching something that wasnt there at all turn into a permanent piece of artwork on my arm was so new and exciting.
My favorite tattoo on my body is my rib tattoo. It’s a snake with a skull and two roses. Tattoos are a trade off of pain for pleasure, and that was by far the most painful.
MODEL THOMAS MAXWELL PHOTO BY WADE CARRIER
I have 20 tattoos. Most are rather large though. All the artists showing off their work online are my biggest influences. Seeing the amazing work coming out of spain, italy, germany... etc. It drives me to make every tattoo better then the last.
I mostly enjoy being around my friends. We’re a really tight-knit crew that all enjoy longboarding and just being with each other.
MODEL THOMAS MAXWELL PHOTO BY WADE CARRIER
My favorite part of being a tattoo artist? The reactions I get from people when the tattoos done. Most of the time it’s pure excitement, but there are also tattoos that hold a lot of meaning and you have them crying and hugging you. It’s a great feeling.
Fashion
White Done Right BY SARAH RACICOT
This year, it seems like the colder the weather gets, the colder the colors we wear get. In a sea of black, strewed with a few splashes of color, white attracts our eyes like magnets. Oh how it stands out when one wears a little light to switch up the mood. Similar to the way our moods are affected by the climate, it is likewise influenced by what we are wearing. Hopefully I am not talking for myself when I say that this extended season we are currently enduring has faintly undermined our morning motivation. So as the weather is uplifting, let’s rejuvenate our wardrobe to welcome the upcoming balmy season. This summer it’s all about white! Much like black, white gives the wearer a great figure. Celebrities surely know how to rock the fully white outfit and they never miss a chance to astonish us with the breathtaking graciousness their white ensembles gives them. The white outfit is specially relished by people like Kate Middleton, Kim Kardashian, Michelle Obama and Rihanna. White makes you look both elegant and strong, independent and sophisticated. After all, how courageous is it to flaunt an all-white outfit without worrying about smudging dirt over it. White has always had a high status in fashion, its luxurious look is the result of hundreds of years of fashion evolution. In the 1900s, the white shirt was a reflexion of wealth, social status and class because of its crisp and clean look. Although this status has changed a little in time, the white preserved its fanciness. The absolute first thing to remember when wearing white is to wear very pale underwear, always look closely in the mirror to make sure you’re not giving a free peek to everyone around you. The second thing you want to do is make sure that all of the elements of your outfit are almost exactly the same shade of white. If one item is off-white or egg-shell it will be very easily noticeable. White is a great color to dress up, as you all know it matches with every color, therefore you can accessorize it with anything. Have fun playing around with texture when wearing a one-color outfit, you can try wearing and layering various different fabrics, like my personal favorite, lace.
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Model Melissa Teed Photo by Wade Carrier
The sport-ish kind of wear is a very common style of clothing that is not only worn for its practicality when practicing sport activities but also for its obvious comfort. Its relaxed and cozy look is unique to this style. You can wear anything from baggy clothes like track pants and oversized jerseys, to tight fitting clothes like yoga pants and sport bras, as long as it is comfortable. Adding sneakers to any type of cozy-looking outfit instantly makes it look sportier and more casual. The combination dress converse also makes for a very attractive feminine tomboy look. One of the most commonly worn sport item is the polo shirt. There are a lot of designers who present their own version of the polo, amongst the most popular ones are Lacoste, Ralph Lauren and Marc Jacobs. Polo shirts made of a higher percentage of stretch fabric enhance the feminine silhouette, not only does it look more delicate, but it also falls smoothly on your curves and gives a form-fitting appearance to the garment that will benefit the wearer in more than one way. The polo shirt is equipped of a collar, a placket (with two or more buttons), and an optional pocket. Their material is most commonly knitted (comparatively to woven fabrics), and is usually cotton, but can also be merino-wool or synthetic fibers. The polo shirt is also often called the golf shirt or the tennis shit. The three appellations are correct, for it is worn by players of all three sports. Though most people are familiar with golf and tennis, polo is a sport that isn’t very popular in Canada. The former Olympic sport holds most of its fame in Britain, where it benefits from a great high-class status. The polo shirt, as well as all sportswear has changed a great deal to become what we know today as active wear. In the 1920s the term sportswear described any informal relaxed and casual separate piece ensemble, commonly worn by sport spectators. Up until the 1990s designers all over the world tried presenting their own sportswear collections, Coco Chanel even created an hautecouture design of sportswear. But the first ones to have gained international fame through their sportswear designs were Clare Potter and Claire McCardell. Although nowadays we often see people like Rihanna and Rita Ora wearing the sporty look, the one person that comes to mind when I think of that style is Melanie Chrisholm, the sporty spice herself. The naturally attractive look of the sporty style has never lost its charm. After all, who doesn’t love to look great while wearing something so comfy?
Be A
G ood Sport This S ummer! BY SARAH RACICOT
Fashion
That Sexy One Piece BY SARAH RACICOT
The history of the bathing suit dates back a very long time. For as long as we know it, man has bathed outside, but women were not always allowed to. Much like the diverse views on women, their rights varied from a place to another, and from a period to another. Ancient portraits and art pieces let us speculate on the tendencies of historic periods. In ancient Greece, women wore bathing suits that much resemble today’s bikini. We can see images depicted on mosaic walls, dating back as far as 300 BC, of women barely covered by their swimsuit. Many years later, public spas were a growing trend in European towns. As you may guess, women would be separated from men. By then, the status of women had shifted a little bit, and carefully preserving their modesty was more than a priority. That is when women started wearing one-pieces, far different from the ones we know today of course. Their attire resembled a dress and it had to go down farther than the knee, but that’s not all, they sometimes even sewed weights in the hem to prevent it from rising up when getting out of the water. These were even worn with stockings. It is only in the Victorian period that people started viewing swimming as a form of relaxation, seaside swimming then gained popularity very quickly. As we know, Victorian habiliment is the leader in covering up women’s bodies. The bathing suits who were then longer were far from form-fitting and the heavy garment made it difficult to swim when wet. The first bikini was invented around the 1940s, yet the one-piece bathing suit has never lost its popularity even as the bikini gained some. Today, their markets are rather equal. Every body type is different and there is a bathing suit made perfectly for us. The bathing suit industry has, in the past few years, been blossoming and designers all over the world are perfecting the one-piece and trying to stand out with their own personal styles. We all know that everything women wear is deeply thought out, every detail has its reason to be and they chose to wear one-pieces for many different reasons. It has gone much farther than a simple confidence booster, women wear one pieces as a form of statement, some wear it to stand out, and express their personality. They stand to say that it is not about bearing all, but about looking great and feeling great without having to uncover their full body, to be respected and looked up to, as independent, confident women not seeking approbation from anyone. But at the end of the day, everybody figures out that you look your best when you feel your best, so go ahead a wear what you feel the most comfortable in.
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Model Chantal Hiltz Photo by Wade Carrier
Fashion
Time for Shades
By Elizabeth McClelland
Sunglasses are an essential summer accessory. Along with protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, sunglasses can give an outfit that final touch. 1. Oversized. Bigger is definitely better! The well-loved oversized sunglasses are back this summer. They give that sense of femininity and mystery, at the same time. They pair well with other big accessories, like a nice big beach bag! 2. Colourful. Colorful frames are also in this season. They are the perfect way to add a pop of color to any outfit. Why not try a pair of red frames to brighten up a black and white dress? 3. Glittery. The glittery frame is also a nice addition to the summer line up of sunglasses. A little sparkle adds a lot to an outfit. Well suited for a trip to the beach or just a light day of shopping. You can never go wrong with glitter! 4. The Adored Aviator! Aviators continue to be a must-have this season. They add a sporty touch to your ensemble. New twists are out this summer that you may want to check out, like mirrored lenses. No matter which style you choose, sunglasses are a summer necessity. With all the fun choices out there, you’re sure to find a style to suit your personality and spice up any outfit.
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Fashion
Sheer Sexy By Kiki Landry When people think of sheer sexy fabrics most people think of over exposure. They couldn’t be more wrong. In the ever changing world of fashion fabrics such as sheer, silk, lace, and loose knit fabrics, are coming back and playing a huge role in the fashion industry. There are many ways you can wear these fashions without feeling like you are over exposed or showing too much skin, especially in the work place. Let’s focus on my two fave’s Sheer and Lace and a few ways to do this are as follows: 1. Try dressing up a pair of sexy lace up pumps with a pair of sheer socks or tights. This allows you to feel sexy while not feeling overly exposed. 2. Wearing lace or sheer leggings or tights with an old pair of ripped jeans can bring back that old school grunge look for a casual wear or even for going out. Play it up and have some fun. 3. Wear a crop top with a sheer or lace overlay for a sexy yet modest touch to any outfit. Have no fear, the sheer team is here! Don’t spend too much time worrying about how much skin is showing. Sheer fabrics and lace are just a few of the many types that you can add to any wardrobe to spice things up and make you feel sexy and playful. Even if you are scared to try something new you must try dressing up a short skirt and crop top with a long sleeve lace see through dress to add definition and “oomph” to your evening look. You will not be disappointed in how awesome you look! FEEL BEAUTIFUL IN YOUR OWN SKIN! Any person of any size deserves to feel sexy. Sheer and lace overlays are the best for all body types and shapes. They allow you to play with your look so that every day can be a new creation of your own. Have fun with your look, I know we will!
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Model Tessa McAllister Photo by Edward Bowron
t s i l y t S
Ask the
With Scott McLean
Maxed Out: A loose maxi is a perfect summer companion if you want a covered and cool look. I would stay away from body conscious fabrics like jersey which tends to cling to the body. A maxi is extremely versatile and can give you just about any look when styled accordingly. Whether it’s for a casual day date or a chic dinner situation, an accessorized maxi is the way to go. What styles should I be avoiding this summer? I mean, are As a bigger person, I don’t feel comfortable in a lot of sum- cut off jean shorts still a thing? mer clothing because I feel it looks bad on me. What can I wear to keep cool and fashionable at the same time? To answer the cut off jean short question, yes they are very much in. A denim short is a summer classic that is As fun as it is to walk around scantily clad in the sum- here to stay. I like to think of denim shorts as the Cher mer heat, summer is not all about cropped tops, short of summer clothing. shorts, and miniskirts. You can look stylish at any size or any shape. Here are some pointers to help you work It’s a classic that is here to stay but needs some work with your curves so you have more of a cool summer done to keep it looking current. Although they are a rather than a cruel summer. classic, they don’t always host the same summer look. Think less cowgirl and more Coachella girl this year. Wedge Up: Although I’m not always a fan of the wedge, they are a perfect summer shoe and a great way to You can style a pair of frayed denim shorts with a long lengthen you out. If you have any fears of looking stub- sheer cardigan, a cropped top and flat sandals or biker by or shapeless, wedges will give the illusion of a longer booties. This is perfect for a festival ready look that will silhouette. Wedges are more comfortable than a regular make you the hit of any show. heel because they offer more support through your foot which makes it easier to go for a higher wedge. This As for some other trends that you should steer clear of allows you to pull of looks that you thought only the this summer; the one earring look is at the top of my lankiest gazelles of fashion week could. list. This was cute for a hot second but is now very over. Western style looks are also a big no-no this sunny seaGo with the Flow: Even if you are a larger body type, son. shorts are still a great way to keep cool. If you get a proper fitting short and pair them with a loose flowy top than you get the cooling factor of the shorts plus the forgiving silhouette of a loose top.
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Photo courtesy of www.prweb.com
A Shore Thing! model: HALEY MACNAB Photography by brogan brown
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Why People Have Affairs By Elizabeth McClelland
It may look as though a certain couple has it all. Perhaps they are good looking, live in a nice house, drive nice cars and have 2 lovely children. What is it that leads people who have what others consider the “perfect life” to have an affair? Often times, affairs aren’t simply about sex. Sometimes they are, but not always. Affair sex is likely more exciting when it is forbidden and new, but it’s not the only reason most people have an affair. Affairs are often a sign of deeper issues in a relationship. 1. Communication Issues When couples go elsewhere to communicate about their issues, a friend, a co-worker or an attractive person they just met, this can lead to an affair. There is such a thing as talking too much, but there are also couples who would rather not fight and let things build up to the point where the small things become monumental. They then go to people outside the relationship, rather than talking to the other person in the relationship, who can actually work on making things better. Once they have the sympathetic ear of someone else, they might
feel more understood by this other person and find him or herself stepping beyond the boundaries of friendship. 2. Incompatible Future Goals Perhaps you were married right out of college, because you had been dating for years. Maybe you were high school sweethearts and you couldn’t imagine not marrying the other person. People who are in relationships that have lasted for a long time and decide that they “should” marry the other person can sometimes set themselves up for trouble. Maybe when you were younger, your lives meshed. You were both in school, lived at home with your parents and worked at insignificant jobs. Then you decided to marry without really delving into whether your goals for the future were the same. Perhaps 2 years in, you realize you are desperate to have children and your partner thinks life without children is grand. Maybe you feel like you want a little more adventure in life and your partner is content just being at home. Having different goals in life can lead people to find
someone else who shares their goals. They feel like Relationships something is missing and they are looking to fill it with someone who they “should” have married. This can be very messy! There are many reasons people have affairs, but the majority of the time, the person having the affair is the 3. Insecurity one who needs to make some changes. They need to Insecurity is tough! People who are insecure are often look inside themselves and see if they are just feeling looking for others to reassure them (constantly!) that insecure and need a little reassurance. If that’s the case, they are attractive or intriguing. When a relationship talk about it with your partner. If it’s about incompatible starts to settle in, some partners can get lazy with future goals, talk about those goals and their importance compliments and passion. Insecure people really need to you. Your partner may simply need to hear HOW their partner to reassure them of their greatness. If they important these goals are to you and perhaps a don’t feel like they are getting compliments and praise compromise can be reached. What needs to be realized in their relationship, they might go elsewhere to find it. is how important open communication can be in these It’s important to find out what your partner needs and types of situations. Often times affairs can be avoided if share what you need with them to avoid affairs caused people are open and honest with their partner. by insecurity. 4. Passively Getting “Back” At Your Partner Passive aggressive people. Eeeek! If they’ve been hurt by their partner in the past, and they haven’t been able to get over it, instead of talking about it, they might get back at their partner. They might try to make them pay. Their intention may have been to make their partner feel slightly jealous or a bit hurt too, in order to achieve equilibrium, when in fact, they have gone and made a real mess of things. An affair is never a way to get back at someone else, unless what you’re hoping for is things to end completely. Let them know how they hurt you, and then work on forgiving them. Forgiveness does not let the other person off the hook; it sets you free from carrying around the burden and hurt. 5. Sex Seeker Affairs could involve someone who is looking for more or “better” sex. They could be searching for someone to fulfill their insatiable desires. If the sex seeker would just discuss, carefully, some of their desires, their partner may be open to trying some new things. Instead, they go elsewhere to fulfill their desires and leave their partner feeling like they are not good enough. 6. Trying To Get Out Another cause for an affair could be that someone is trying to get out of a relationship but doesn’t want to be the one who breaks it off. Or, they’ve tried to break it off in the past and they weren’t successful. They might be hoping that a dose of infidelity will cause the other person to break up with them, releasing them from the tough job of dumping the other person.
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Models Thomas Maxwell & Marianne Daigle Photos by Edward Bowron
To Hear & Be Heard
By Elizabeth McClelland
Tone of Voice This is something I am especially working on. I don’t even realize sometimes what I sound like to my partner. If I’m annoyed about something, apparently it’s a little too obvious and it makes it hard for him to listen to me when I sound like I’m on the attack. Fair enough. Keep this in mind when you want to Timing Timing is key. It’s best to approach your partner at approach your partner about something. Try to keep a time when you know they are calm, relaxed and an even tone and try not to sound confrontational. generally happy, if possible. It’s not a good idea to bombard them with issues and concerns right when Language they walk in the door after a crappy day at work, or It’s important to keep your language non-accusatory. when they are running out the door in the morning If you jump in and tell them that they are causing to get to a meeting they are already running late for. problems or that they never listen or never help, you’re on a fast track to argument city! Make sure you If they are a morning person, ask them to set aside a tell them how you are feeling; don’t just blame them few minutes in the morning on a day when they are for everything. not in a hurry. If they are a night owl, plan to have a chat with them after the kids go to bed and you have Listening can also be a challenge sometimes. It can be a few minutes to yourself. The key here is to PLAN a difficult when you’re frustrated or busy to give your partner your full attention, but it’s important that you time. do. Then they will know that they matter to you and When you want to be heard, there are a few guidelines to follow that will likely make it easier to communicate your needs to your partner. I must admit, I don’t always follow these guidelines, but when I do, I find much greater success!
will hopefully return the favour. Pay Attention This I am working on. I forever have my phone in hand and it is very distracting! Remove distractions and give your partner your full attention. Repeat things back to them if you need clarification, that will let them know you are paying attention. Give them eye contact so they know you are involved in the discussion. Multi-tasking can be beneficial at times, but not when your partner needs you to be a good listener. Respect Respect your partner’s point of view and allow them the opportunity to have a voice. When you are respectful, you don’t interrupt and you don’t judge what they are saying. You allow them to share what they need to and allow them to feel what they are feeling. That will make them more comfortable sharing with you in the future.
Relationships helpful. It sets us up to be a bad listener. It’s not fair to assume you know what they are going to say or how they are feeling. Be sure to go into a conversation without expectations and allow them to tell you what they need to. You might be pleasantly surprised. Communicating with your partner amongst the challenges and busyness of life can be difficult but it is crucial for a successful relationship. Both parties need to feel as though the other truly hears what they are saying and that genuine listening is taking place. You may feel as though you don’t have time for a conversation, but giving communication the time and respect it deserves in your relationship will be worth it in the long run.
No Expectations Sometimes we enter a conversation with our partner and think we know what they are going to say before they even get started. I do this all the time. It’s not
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Relationships
Pros & Cons of Being Single By Elizabeth McClelland
I could tell you my thoughts on being single, but they’re slightly tainted, as I haven’t been single in a long time. I thought it best to seek the advice of someone who is single and is rather happy to be so, with a few exceptions… Here are some of the pros and cons. Pros 1. You can do whatever you want whenever you want. This is such a luxury. Not having to run anything past your partner allows you to go with the flow. If you feel like going for after work drinks, you go. 2. Spending your money on anything you like. When you get your paycheck, it is ALL YOURS! Yes, you can buy whatever you want with that leftover money. No one is going to tell you those shoes are a “ridiculous” purchase or that you probably don’t need another pair of jeans. You just go spend that hard earned money on whatever makes you happy! 3. Eat what you want or not at all! You get home from work and you don’t feel like making a meal. No problem! Microwave a mini pizza or frozen meal. If that doesn’t satisfy you, whip up a grilled cheese sandwich. No one needs to know and no one needs to judge. You eat what you want, when you want. 4. Sleep. There won’t be someone snoring next to you, with the TV on. Enough said. Cons 1. No one to do nothing with. You know when you want to wear your comfy clothes and hang out watching movies on netflix all night? People who are single sometimes have to do this alone. I know married people are saying, “so?” but this is very different than having someone to snuggle up with to watch TV. 2. No one to share the bills with. Life is expensive. If you live on your own, in an apartment
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or house, there are lots of bills. So your grocery bill might be smaller, but everything else that could be split is all on your lap. Doesn’t allow for as much free money. 3. No one to travel with. When couples want to go on a vacation, they know who’s coming with them. They have their travel partner. They flip through their travel bucket list and cross off the destinations together. Single people have to find someone willing to go with them, who has enough money and time off to come with them. 4. No plus 1. You get that wedding invitation in the mail. It is embossed with the most beautiful mauve ink and it says, Sally Harris + 1. Do you bring your friend Joe from work? What if he thinks it’s more than just friends? Do you ask your go-to single girlfriend Melissa? What if she isn’t single by then? Or, do you go alone? You could be at risk of being at “that table” with “those people”. This is a risky situation. 5. Sleeping alone. No comfortable sex. Sleeping alone is great, when you’re sleeping. Those of us who aren’t single, sometimes forget the luxury of built in, comfortable sex. When you wake up Saturday morning and you’re “in the mood” you don’t have to go far. Single people have a lot of weeding out to do, or have to take the risk of a casual sex partner. Could be exciting, but could also be devastating. Whether you are single or you have been in a relationship for what feels like forever, the best thing you can do is realize that the grass just looks greener on the other side. Once you get to that other side, it may not look so green. There are pros and cons to being single and there are pros and cons to being in a relationship. The best thing you can do is just enjoy where you are at in life because every stage has its pros and cons.
Model Gillian Hubley Photographer Wade Carrier
PB Photo by Wade Carrier