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Who's loving Latin American kicks?

Jul. 7th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

Brazilian handcrafted shoes set the scene at Fashion Central

 
BY THERESA TAYLER, CALGARY HERALD JUNE 29, 2010

On June 24, Mercedes Pupo officially opened doors at her new Carmen Steffens shoe boutique, located in Fashion Central, in downtown Calgary.

The shelves are lined with high-end leather pumps, flats, heels and handbags ranging in price from $80 to $900 and favoured among celebrities such as Eva Longoria, Mariah Carey and Christina Applegate.

"We want people to know that this store is for everyone. These designer pieces are not just for the very rich," says Pupo, who sighs and smiles when she thinks about how different her life is in Calgary than her native Cuba.

"There's no such thing as designer shoes in Havana," she says.

"But I'm here now and there's so much opportunity in Calgary to do whatever you want -- to start a business."

When Pupo moved to Canada from Cuba more than a decade ago, there was no money for designer shoes or handbags.

Pupo and her husband Ariel Garcia had to scrimp and save as they raised their son Ariel Junior, who was six years old when the family arrived in Calgary from Havana.

Eventually, the couple established themselves financially. Garcia founded a house painting business, while Pupo raised Ariel (now 21) and took online courses in art and photography.

Now, it's Pupo's turn to follow her entrepreneurial passions. "My husband and I worked very hard and now we're able to open this store at this wonderful location," says Pupo.

Pupo is determined to make Carmen Steffens a hit in Calgary.

"Brazilians are famous for their good-quality shoes. They're sexy, chic, classic and beautiful. I know people here will love these shoes," she says.

This is the first Carmen Steffens location in Canada. The Brazilian family-owned company is known throughout Latin America for their handcrafted leather accessories. Monalisa Spaniol, head designer, has been at the creative helm of Carmen Steffens since it was founded in 1992.

There are more than 180 other retail stores around the world, but Pupo is the first Canadian the company has gone into business with.

"They are very picky," she says. "But they came up here and agreed that Calgary would be a good market for them, because it's a booming big city with a lot of life."

Check out Carmen Steffens Handcrafted Brazilian shoes and purses in Fashion Central, 803 1st St. S.W., or go to carmensteffens. com.

ttayler@theherald.canwest.com

© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
 
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Lara Presber Flagship Store

Jun. 17th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill


Calgary Herald, Friday, May 21, 2010

Lara Presber of the Lara Presber Flagship Store at Fashion Central discusses architecture, fashion and how to look great this summer.

How did you make the jump from architect to fashion designer? I was always interested in fashion and even designed my first "collection"--I use the term loosely as it was for dolls-- when I was in elementary school. When you're in a creative profession it takes a lot of passion to be successful. You really have to love what you do, so while I like architecture, the love factor tor wasn't there for me in the same way that it is in clothing design.

Besides architecture, what inspires your designs? I'm really enjoying having my studio open to the public because I get to meet the women who wear my clothes and learn more about what makes them feel great in a garment. Knowing that I can provide a product that helps to make someone feel fantastic drives my designs.

You use a lot of eco-friendly fabrics. Why is this important for you? I tend to use almost exclusively natural fibres--wool, silk, cotton, linen, bamboo--as they allow skin to breathe so much better than synthetics. The eco-fabrics are a natural progression of this philosophy.

What can we expect from your upcoming lines? Looking toward fall, I stayed with a lot of charcoal basics that you can layer fun accessories over like a bright blue tweed vest or a silver sequin one as well as an origami leather wrap belt to give you a number of different looks with the same basic tailored dress.

What's this year's perfect summer look for women?  This summer is all about the neutrals like white, grey, brown and nude. It's a great opportunity to use your clothing as a canvas and pull out your raspberry handbag, chunky yellow necklace or that fabulous pair of crazy blue shoes you bought on a whim and have been saving because they don't go with anything else!

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New jewelry design inspired by injury

Jun. 16th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

 

New jewelry design inspired by injury 

Calgary artist's body art created in wake of pulled ligament

 
By Theresa Tayler, Calgary Herald, May 25, 2010
Read more:http://www.calgaryherald.com/life/jewelry+design+inspired+injury/3066348/story.html#ixzz0r3MQgbgQ
Morgan Mallett's body has always been a source of inspiration.
The Calgary-based jewelry-maker's passion for sport and athleticism is one of the driving forces behind her line of geometric, tactile body-fitting pieces.
When the 29-year-old pulled a ligament in her back last December while sweating out plyometrics at the gym, it changed her both physically and creatively.
"I was bed-ridden for weeks. I think the injury subconsciously inspired the new collection," says Mallett.
The accident happened just months before she had plans to launch the 2010 fall and winter line for her label, Design + Conquer.
"This has been the most challenging collection I've done yet. To this day, running and working out has always been the way I release after working on my art. It gets me out of my head and into my body after constantly thinking," she says.
Doctors told Mallet she would have to wait out the healing process in bed for a few weeks -- a boring and creatively stifling diagnosis for a woman who was used to immersing herself in every sport from ringette and soccer to field hockey.
Without consciously thinking about it, she found herself sketching and planning out pieces centred around human movement and the skeleton.
"The most obvious piece is the firewall necklace, or as I always call it, my spine piece," says Mallett.
She is referring to a visually intriguing chunk of body art, meant to run down a woman's neck and back.
Mallett was healed and healthy by May 13, the night of her Design + Conquer fall winter 2010 collection launch party, held at the Marquee Room in Calgary.
This is her third collection of jewelry.
The venue is full of friends, family and industry insiders on the night of the launch. They are all lined up to study her bracelets, necklaces and earrings that range in price from $90 to $1,500.
Karen Patrick, Mallett's mother and biggest fan, has flown in from Vancouver for the event.
She says her daughter was always "a strange mix of jock and artist."
"She was always drawing as a child, very creative. But she was the biggest tomboy, also. I thought she might go into kinesiology or something in the sports field. But I think she became burned out with sports."
"Her pieces are absolutely bizarre, but that doesn't mean I don't like her work," says Patrick.
"They're massive and odd, but intricate, and I totally appreciate it. Where she comes up with her ideas, I have no idea."
Originally from Vancouver, Mallet has lived in Calgary off and on for 10 years.
She has a bachelor of fine arts in painting from the University of Calgary and went through graphic design school in Halifax.
Mallet's new line is made from her standard materials of sterling silver and acrylic polymer plastics, which she moulds and creates herself via her own secret technique.
"It's part of my mystique. I can't give my secret away," she says, laughing.
Design + Conquer jewelry can be found in Calgary at AG Silver Boutique (Fashion Central) and stores across Canada.
For more information, visit designandconquerjewellery.com.
ttayler@theherald.canwest.com
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
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Talking Shopwith Echo Evenings and Echo Bridal

May. 18th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

Swerve Magazine, CALGARY HERALD APRIL 23, 2010 


Spring is finally here, and what better way to celebrate the warm weather than to treat yourself to a gorgeous new dress?
Echo Evenings has a beautiful collection of perfect hand-painted silk gowns and one-of-a-kind cocktail dresses. Diba and Neki Cufi, the retailers behind Echo Evenings and Echo Bridal, two fabulous new boutiques in Fashion Central, chat about what is new and exciting in evening wear and bridal fashion.

What kind of trends are you seeing in evening wear this season?
Flowing dresses with bold patterns and bright colours. We are also seeing lots of beadwork, with an extra touch of "bling" as an accent.

A lot of the designs are from Europe and Turkey--what makes them different from North American designs?
European styles have a tendency to be a little more fashion forward than the North American styles. We felt that this would give us yet another niche by providing our clients with a bigger variety.

What is Echo Evenings' advice for a woman getting ready for a night on the town?
Have fun! Throw on a fun and flirty cocktail dress or a long, flowing evening dress. Retire the jeans and T-shirt for the evening.

You also have a bridal-wear shop called Echo Bridal on the lower level. What are the trends in wedding gowns this season?
Again, our extensive collection of bridal wear is second to none in Calgary. A bride's dress becomes the focal point of her wedding day, so it is very important that she have a variety to choose from.

What is your favourite dress in the store right now?
That is what is so great about our shop: there is something for everyone. This gives every personality a chance to fully express itself and shine through. And it means the experience of buying a dress can make you, feel like a star.

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Fine brew stirred Calgary coffee shop plan: Luxury key as partners launch brand

May. 18th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

BY MARIO TONEGUZZI, CALGARY HERALD MAY 10, 2010

Small Business

deVille Luxury Coffee and Pastries

- Owners: Paul Brassard and Mark Nolan

- Established: May 2008

- Locations: Art Central and Fashion Central in the downtown

- Employees: About 20

- Description: Luxury coffee and pastries, licensed for beer and wine, sandwiches

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CALGARY - A few years ago, the idea to set up a cafe came to Paul Brassard while drinking a fine cup of coffee.

He had completed his commerce degree in Victoria and was visiting a friend in Vancouver. They were having coffee at Caffe Artigiano. His first visit there. And the coffee establishment was using Intelligentsia black cat, a fresh roasted bean.

"I thought it was the best coffee I'd ever had. Just decided it was time to get back into the food business instead of doing the suit and tie thing. And that's when I recruited Mark (Nolan) and said, 'Hey do you want to do this thing with me?'," says Brassard.

"This thing" turned out to be deVille Luxury Coffee and Pastries with two establishments in the downtown, at Fashion Central and Art Central.

The two of them had been in the restaurant industry together. Brassard was working in downtown Calgary in information technology.

"I decided I really wanted to get back into food, but food my way. So we really wanted to do this coffee concept," says Brassard.

"Everything that we do is either artisan or boutique in some sense of the word. Everything is handmade and a lot of thought put into it. Everything has been touched by us or decided upon by us."

The Art Central location opened two years ago in May. They opened a second location last June at 1302 1st St. S.W. in a highrise residential condo tower, but there's new ownership there now. Brassard and Nolan opened another location in Fashion Central in February.

The two locations they own operate out of about 1,200 square feet each with about 20 employees in the two locations.

They use only Intelligentsia beans from a Chicago company Brassard describes as the "godfathers of boutique roasting."

The deVille cafe sells those beans at its two locations. They also have pastries, sandwiches, soup, quiche, wine, cheese and beer. All the food is made from scratch.

The two locations each seat about 60 but there is capacity to expand for private events due to the adjacent common areas.

"Paul and I were both in the service industry. That's where we met -- 11, 12 years ago," says Nolan. "And customer service is something that we've been passionate about forever. So when Paul brought the idea to me to do this, it seemed it was the next step to do our own thing. I'm very happy with where we're going."

"Since the first day we opened the doors we were both kind of anticipating that people would just be lined up the door and it would be fantastic and we'd be throwing money at each other," Brassard says laughing, as he sips one of the cafe's specialties.

"But it turns out the first month we were open we were doing probably about $400 a day which is a great way to go bankrupt really quick. So since then we've more than tripled those sales numbers and we're still by no stretch of the imagination out of the woods, but we have a very loyal following of people who come to our cafe (and) are vigilant about coming to our cafe. We see a positive growth trend for sure."

Fashion Central at the heart of the downtown and Art Central is across the street where the majestic Bow tower is being constructed.

"Location for any small business is so important. Traffic is important," says Nolan. "It took a long time to find a location that was not scary at first. . . . Downtown was very important for us. The towers and the density."

mtoneguzzi@theherald.canwest.com



Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/life/Fine+brew+stirred+Calgary+coffee+shop+plan/3007151/story.html#ixzz0oHvbKQQ3
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AG Silver Boutique: Joseluis Castillo shares an international success story

May. 18th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

AG Silver Boutique: Joseluis Castillo shares an international success story
Swerve Magazine, Calgary Herald
Published: Friday, May 14, 2010
Tell us about the history of your family-run business.
We come from a family of silver-jewelry makers. For the past 15 years, we've been creating contemporary designs that are more fashion-oriented, using higher-quality materials. We have our own brands in Mexico (my cousins, my sister and myself). We also have a few shops in different Mexican cities, some under my brand "ag silver boutique" (or ag plateria) and some under the other brands. We also have clients who distribute our work in their own shops in Eastern Canada, the U.S., Europe and South America.
 
What is your design process?
Before moving to Canada (almost two years ago), I used to go to the workshop every month; the rest of the time I was managing the shops. Nowadays, I try to make my drawings and go with my cousins to the workshops in central Mexico around three times a year. We also do custom work, from pieces or drawings my clients ask for.
 
Which are your favourite materials to work with, besides silver, of course?
Lately, we have been combining silver with wood (particularly wenge and rosewood), as well as colourful acrylic and leather. The newest collaboration is with Calgary artist Lisa Heinricks. We have been working together for a few months. Essentially, I create the pieces and she paints on them.
 
Where do you find inspiration for your jewelry?
I like works with geometric shapes and structures. I also like different finishes on silver like "hammering" or "brushing." Every time I go to Mexico I see new styles and get to brainstorm new ideas together with my friends and cousins.

 

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All About Pearls: an interview with Kristin Richard of South Sea Pearls

Apr. 12th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

by Kait Kucy, April 9, 2010

(published in part in Swerve Magazine, Calgary Herald April 9, 2010)

 

 

“Pearls are as unique and diverse as the Women they adorn,” states Kristin Richard, the elegant proprietor behind Kaviar South Sea Pearls, one of Fashion Central’s fabulous new boutiques.  The minute you enter her gorgeous French country boudoir-inspired boutique you really start to understand what an experience pearl shopping can be.  With the Venetian Pearl walls, damask wallpapers, and custom bottles of champagne, Kristin has thought of every detail to make each customers shopping experience very special.  We sat down with Kristin to discover exactly where her love of pearls first came from and what to expect at Kaviar this spring and summer. 

 

When did you first fall in love with pearls? 

I’ve always been in love with pearls – but witnessing the birth of the most exquisite South Sea pearl I have ever seen (to date) and holding it in my palm seconds after it was removed from the oyster was one of the most fascinating things I have ever seen.  This pearl will be passed down, worn and adorn a woman’s neck, given to her children and her children’s children.  This was just the beginning of an eternal journey – and from that moment on, I was captured, and in love. 

 

You travel to Tahiti and source the South Sea pearls you carry, yourself -- what is this experience like and what do you look for in a pearl? 

Experiencing the journey from the very beginning is important to me – I can guarantee source and various harvests, and am able to discuss the industry with professionals, the going-on’s of the market, and can really ensure that I am buying inventory that is appropriate for my clients.  The building of the relationship with my suppliers is also invaluable.  We spend 16-18 hours a day together harvesting, matching, and sharing meals.  It is typically very modest and humble accommodations with a lot of family and friends around, joking, laughing and working.

When choosing pearls, there are the 7 basic value factors that you look at.  Shape, size, color, luster, complexion (surface quality), nacre quality, and if applicable – Matching.  This is my guideline for buying, but the market always dictates what is more desirable.  For example, Dark black Tahitian pearls are very much sought after in the industry – but in Calgary I find my clients prefer a silver or charcoal Pearl.  Knowing your client is just as important as knowing your product. 


 
Can anyone wear pearls?

Yes, yes they can. 


 
Are there different styles for different ages?  20s? 30s? 40s? 50s? 

I have noticed a few style trends with different age groups, but more commonly my clients gravitate towards colors that suit them, and a size of pearl appropriate for their frame and personality.  Pearls are a timeless addition to your wardrobe – and contrary to selecting a pearl for an age, you match the pearls to the woman. 


What are your best-sellers? 

Pink pearls and Tahitian (black) pearls have become increasingly popular, as well as really long (50-55”) strands with small pearls that can be knotted or tied. 


 
Advice for someone purchasing pearls as a gift? 

Pearls are a gift given with love.  I like to suggest classic styles for gifts - earrings, a Princess strand of saltwater pearls, or more creatively, a loose pearl that can be added to over the years to eventually make a full strand. 

Also, be sure that the person you are gifting the pearls to know and understand proper care and cleaning procedures for pearls.  There is an old saying “Last on, first off.”  Pearls should not be exposed to chemicals or abrasive solutions (perfume, hand lotions, hairspray) and should be wiped down with a clean, damp cotton cloth before being stored.  (in a separate jewelry compartment to avoid scratching)  For strands, you should have your pearls re-strung once a year. 

 


What is your signature pearl look? 

An opera (26 to 36 inch) or rope (37 inches or longer) strand that can be put over your head – or both at the same time.  I love to layer pearls.  For everyday, I like a long strand of white pearls and large white pearl earrings.  For a really simplistic look, a large (18mm) south sea pearl worn on a 17” chain. 


 
Who are your style icons? 

Babe Paley, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Eartha Kit, Coco Chanel, and Elizabeth Taylor.

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Lara Presber launches her Spring line

Mar. 31st, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

Six in the City, Calgary Sun, March 30, 2010
Permalink 07:05 am, Kelly Doody  / Fashion Fabuloso, Shopaholics Anonymous, 410 words  
You don’t have to be an architect to see the influence of form, lines and structure in Lara Presber’s work. But you do if you’re the one trying to create it.

For the Calgary-born fashion designer with the newly-opened shop in the conglomerate of couture called Fashion Central, much to her surprise upon graduating from the DOMUS Academy of Design and Fashion in Milan, having spent the previous decade as a practicing architect was about to pay off in dividends. 

“When I left architecture I thought, I’m done. I’m going to do fashion,” she told Page Six. “But everyone just kept wanting to know about the architecture component of my work.”

Now, for the girl from James Fowler high school who’s landed on her feet in the Canadian fashion scene in a major way, and, ironically, a retail space in one of Calgary’s architecture wonders formerly known as the Alberta Block, there’s just no fighting it. 

Lara Presber
Calgary-born fashion designer Lara Presber, leaving an architecture career behind to land a retail space in one of Calgary’s architectural wonders – the refurbished Alberta Block now known as Fashion Central on Stephen Avenue

“Each season I take a building that I love and translate it into clothing,” she said. Winter saw the texture and colour palette of the Arab Institute in Paris come to life in her collection. Spring’s inspiration, launching Thursday night as the highlight of First Thursday festivities at Fashion Central, just happens to be the Aqua Tower in Chicago. 

As for how it feels to finally be up-and-running at her new digs in the historical building on Stephen Avenue?

“I’ve been selling my clothes in boutiques in and outside of Calgary for some time,” she said, “But having a direct relationship with the consumer is so much more reliable than third party.”

And if it seems like her architect past is simply the shtick that’s getting her noticed, think again. 

“It was our mandate to have a place where new designers could open their flagship stores, and Lara really walks the walk and talks the talk,” said Jodi Opsahl, leasing representative at Fashion Central. “Her pieces of clothing are extraordinary in their design, but also her fabrication represents someone who’s more of a discerning customer. We’re thrilled to have her.”

See Calgary’s architect of fashion for yourself on the third floor, or head to LaraPresber.com.
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Fashionable Additions to Fashion Central

Mar. 31st, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

Six in the City, Calgary Sun
Mar 27, 2010 
12:04 pm, Kelly Doody 
Transitioning from the local scene to a world-renowned mini-dress queen...
 
The sound of the Betsey Johnson grand opening streamed from Fashion Central down Stephen Avenue Thursday night, thanks to DJ Atu Bedroc Kumi, DJ Dex and a packed boutique of people keen to buy something frilly. 
Fashion Central is quickly filling the last of its empty retail spaces, with Carmen Steffens couture footwear set to open in late April... 
 
If it's good enough for Stephanie Pratt...
Brazilian swimwear from Fernanda Ferrari Design coming in June and an as-of-yet unnamed high-end Italian handbag boutique opening in summer. 
And if you’re looking for a gorgeous grad dress, Echo Evenings in the high-end mall has select gowns and party dresses up to 50-percent off until Apr. 3. 

 

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Betsey Johnson Calgary - Official Grand Opening Party

Mar. 19th, 2010

Posted by Sandra Neill

March 17, 5:50 PMCalgary Fashion Media ExaminerMelissa Wusaty

 

Betsey Johnson Calgary, located in Fashion Central, is throwing a spectacular tea party Thursday, March 25 to celebrate the store's opening.

Attendees will be given the chance to snag some coveted door prizes which include a Betsey Johnson jewellery set, an ipod touch, gift cards from DeVille Coffee House and Kaviar Pearls, and Betsey models (peak your interest yet?).  Guests will also be treated to an assortment of edible treats and drinks throughout the evening while listening to beats provided by DJ Atu Bedroc Kumi and DJ Dex.

Betsey Johnson opened late last year to rave reviews.  The store, which boasts a fun atmosphere and relaxed shopping environment, has been a hit amongst Calgary's fashion enthusiasts.  The store offers signature Betsey party dresses, slick blazers, jumpsuits, one-of-a-kind accessories, and more subdued but equally fun pieces that can be incorporated into any wardrobe.  Calgary is Betsey Johnson's fourth Canadian location.

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