Recently, a new company, Deca Cosmetics, has been created in Toronto that produces and distributes high quality cosmetics that have been clinically tested as up to par if not better than the leading cosmetics brands we use today. So not only are they supplying mineral based, high end make-up at affordable prices, but, they are providing us with a product based in Toronto. What’s not to love about that?

Right now, Deca is only available in Trade Secrets and Glamour Secrets locations, the sales teams have been fully trained to use the product and are happy to help any customers with make-up tips and tricks.

Even more, Deca is launching a Social Media campaign to interact with women out there and keep people up to date with Deca initiatives. There have been talks about a launch party and maybe even a modelling contest. Your best bet to keeping up to date is to follow them on Twitter/Facebook so you don’t miss any of the promotions or events that come up. They also want to hear what women have to say and would love to engage with the community so help them start the conversation.

So for today’s HumpDayHandout, Deca will donate the following to one lucky winner:

• Deca Oil-Free Tinted moisterizer (available in Light, Medium, or  Dark)
• Deca Creamy Mascara (in navy, brown, or black)
• and, a Deca Mineral Lip Gloss

There should be enough products there to convince you that this one is worth entering for sure.

How to Win:

Like/Follow @DecaCosmetics on Facebook and Twitter and tag them in this message:

“#HumpDayHandout I want to get #DeckedOut with @DecaCosmetics and @PinkMafia4Life”

The Gossip’s new album, A Joyful Noise hits the internet for sale May 22nd, and it’s worth a buy for the following reasons:

1. They make albums. You can put it on and listen throughout. It’s probably the perfect getting-ready-to-get-laid album, not in the sense that The Weeknd gets people in the sexy mood post 2AM (seriously, who hasn’t hit it to at least one of those Weeknd EPs in the past 6 months) but in the “getting my hair did to snag me some tail” kinda way. It’s the well rounded dance floor fluff that gets you singing along while you get your dancing shoes on.

2. There’s some amazing throwback bitchery. “Get a Job” floored me on first spin. Not only is it catchy and exciting like a strutting George Michael “Freedom 90″, but the lyrics are killer. Sample: “Poor little rich girl, you don’t know where the money went…you need to get a job! What kind of life is it when every day’s a weekend. How quickly we forget when I’m at work, you’re sleeping in…you need to get a job!” It’s harsh and beautiful, it has ton’s of dance floor potential for remix and catchy as all hell. “Get Lost” also rocks a chorus with piano line that is reminiscent of  a genre we all know and love called “old Madonna”.

3. It’s just enough of a departure to show growth, but not so much that fans will feel turned off by the dread Zooropa curse. This album is more electronic and poppy then past efforts, although you wouldn’t know it from the single, “Perfect World”, which is vintage Gossip. There’s a lot more synths, but a general even-ness to the tone that keeps it poppy light.

If you’re just looking for the “hits” then download:

-Get A Job-for it’s “you betta work” potential

-Move in The Right Direction-for its drag queen struttability

-Perfect World-if you like songs that get stuck in your head for days

-Get Lost-cause it’s like some old new Madonna ish (post Vogue, pre Frozen)

Photos by Alice Xue

We sat down with Director X at the Royal York yesterday and here are his  20 Questions:

1. What is your dream of happiness?

I’ve got to dream of happiness but it’s kind of like your birthday wish – if you say it, you jinx it.

2. Blonde or Brunette?

both at the same time. Kind goes back to the dream of happiness actually…

3. What is the quality you like most in a person?

Honesty

4. What do you fear most?

No fears

5. 808s or 909s?

It’s 808′s and heartbeats, right?

6. What’s your biggest regret?

No regrets

7. What’s your fav bar or club in the world?

Cirque in London and Jet Black – the craziest afterhours you’ve ever seen in your life.

8. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

Me.

9. What are the 3 musicians dead or alive you’d like to see perform?

Jimi Hendrix, The full Beatles, Bob Marley

10. What is your favourite decade in music?

The 70′s – Hendrix The Beatles, and Marley were both alive.

11. If you had to choose, would you rather go blind or deaf and why?

Neither.

12. How old is too old?

You’re never too old.

13. Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

I don’t want to jinx that either.

14. Who’s your hero?

Superman, Spiderman, and Wolverine.

15. What’s your favourite colour?

16. What song could you live without ever hearing again?

By the time you hear any song in 20 years it’s become a fond memory.

17. Metallica or Madonna?

Metallica. But really it depends on the night.

18. What’s your most hated vice?

I don’t do vices. But I’ve seen too many people go the wrong way with certain ones…

19. Who is the most tragic figure in history?

Adolf Hitler.

20. What are the top three live shows you’ve seen in your life?

Pharcyde, Kanye West, LOVE by Cirque du Soleil

The Festival started in 1991 out from “a small community of people who yearned to see film and video created by and about lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) people.” It is now Canada’s largest festival of it’s kind and in the top five world wide. Over 200 films and videos from Canada and around the world will be welcome to the over 35,000 who attend. In short, The Toronto Inside Out LGBT Film Festival has a reputation “as an international leader in the presentation of queer film.” This year, the Festival celebrates their theme of “Fearless, Shameless, Timeless” with films that have come from international film makers. There is so much to see, and do this year. My blog is merely the surface of what is available this year at the Festival.
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Opening Night Gala Screening

On Thursday May 17th “My Brother the Devil”(UK 2011 112 min) ushers in the first film of the festival. What better way to start the 2012 Festival, with “an adrenaline-fuelled urban tale that burns with vision and passion.” Director Sally El Hosaini brings to life the story of two brothers who are intertwined in the Gang Culture of East London. The love between two brothers who must find themselves and their own way in life is a fast paced coming of age story. This is on Thursday May 17th, at 8PM, the opening night of the festival at Tiff Bell Light Box CINEMA 1, 350 King Street West (corner of John Street).
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Opening Night Gala Party

DJ Shane Percy famous from such events as CandyBar, Future Disco, the “smash hit gay night Pop Machine.” He will be joined by Yura of Viva Cabaret. Yura bring his performance from years of international acclaim. Their performances will be the kick off celebrations to all the events as they unfold over the many days of the festival. This event will be held at OCAD Great Hall, 100 McCaul street. To attend the party, it’s $10 entrance fee, or $8 if you are a member. It’s freewith your Opening Gala screening and party ticket.

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The Womens Spotlight

The Inside Out festival is celebrating lesbian-themed films. Cloudburst tells a “Thelma and Lousise” styled tale of Stella and Dot. The are played by Acclaimed actresses Olympia Dukakis and Brenda Fricker. The couple have lived together for 31 years, in Maine. When Dot is injured and is placed in a nursing home, her mate Stella free’s her partner, where they take a ride up to Nova Scotia, where they can be legally married. Thom Fitzgerald brings “earthy humour, touching moments and ravishing landscapes.” It will be shown on Friday May 25th at the TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX CINEMA 1.

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Women’s Spotlight Reception

On Friday May 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. the Toronto Inside Out Film Fesatival, will welcome guests to raise a glass to all the fabulous women in filmmaking and in our community. With the amount of Women centred films in this years festival, it is certainly going to be the event you need to attend. It will be held at Urbanspace Gallery, 401 Richmond Street West, Suite 117.
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“Lady Shorts”

This series, is four installations, numbered 1 through 4. Each has four films. “Lady Shorts 3″ looks to be the best one to check out. The first film in this installation, is simply entitled “Cross Your Fingers” Manicurist Su-Yeon encounters Maya, a punk girl at her salon in Brixton, South London. Su-Yeon who is a good Catholic girl, is forced to confront her new feelings and desires. ““Next Door (NEBENAN)” is a German film about lesbian’s sharing a flat and the secret’s that can’t be kept. The third film, “Out of Bounds” tells the tale of two lesbians, Rose and Samantha desiring to move in together. The catch, is that only one of them is out. Rose has a very conservative mother. The final film in the series, comes from Spain entitled “Uniformed ” Margaret is a young girl who hears her own voice when she makes an announcement. Despite the constant messaging of “how to fulfill society’s gender roles” she shows she is not afraid to break the mold.”

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“Bye Bye Blondie”

The film, will be presented at the Closing Gala on Sunday May 27, 7:30PM | TBLB CINEMA 1. It comes to us from France and is the North American Premier of the film. Director Virginie Despentes takes on the tale of “two women struggling to revive their relationship after years of separation and change.” The wonder or possibility of trying to recapture their first love, is accentuated by the compelling performances of Béatrice Dalle (Gloria) and Emmanuelle Béart(Frances) Gloria, a 40 year old drifter, receives and invitation to come to Paris, at Frances’s beckoning. What transpires is a look at the genesis of their relationship and how it started in 1984. It is juxtaposed to what happens when middle age and the pursuit of youth combine.

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Closing Night Gala Party

What better way to end the festival than with Toronto’s favourite Cat.DJ Cozmic Cat will be spinning at Hotel Ocho, 195 Spadina Ave, starting at 10 PM. For those of you who have not been to Cherry Bomb, or heard her spin at various locations through the city, your ears will thank you. She is known internationally and has worked with the worlds best DJ’s and performers. She brings a “live wire energy” when she spins and it’s obvious she is passionate about her work. Tickets: $10 General Public/$8 MembersFree with your Closing Gala screening and party ticket.
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Where to get Tickets

They offer 3 easy ways to purchase tickets. They are currently available for sale. You can click them Online By Phone: 416.599.TIFF (8433)Toll free: 1.888.599.8433 The lines are open 10am to 7pm daily. In Person: 10am to 10pm daily TIFF Bell Lightbox, Reitman Square, 350 King Street West (at John Street)All tickets include HST with a “$1.00 per ticket (or pass purchase), to a maximum of $10.00 per ORDER.” This applied to all online and telephone ticket purchases. A membership will let you move to the front of the line, click here to purchase your membership online. The box office and all screening venues are wheelchair accessible.

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words by shona
Follow me on Twitter for Festival Highlights and Updates @Shona__Fraser

Check out the PinkMafia Facebook Page on Monday’s until the Album release for our Gossip Trivia question.

How to Win:

When you see the trivia question (the time will never be the same, so you have to make sure to keep a look out for it) answer the question in a comment on the post. Commenting the correct answer enters you in the contest for a chance to win. The more you answer, the more ballots you receive.

Winners will be announced on May 22nd!

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AHHH! I seriously cannot believe how much Whedon their has been in my life lately. From the Buffy reruns that air everyday on MUCH MUSIC, to Cabin In The Woods, and now The Avengers, Joss is all I can/want to think about :)

JOSS WHEDON IS A GENIUS,  a clever cult genius. It’s actually kinda strange (in a good way) that we’re getting so much Joss in our lives considering mostly everything he does is not well received by the average overweight American public…BIG SHOCK! But thankfully Paramount and Marvel Studios have faith in him to write and direct not only the best blockbuster of the summer, but one of the greatest superhero movies OF ALL TIME.

The lead up for The Avengers has been almost 4 years in the making with the release of Iron Man and the Incredible Hulk in 2008, and  Iron Man 2, Thor, and Captain American followed close by to give a strong back story to these marvelous characters. Aside from The Incredible Hulk, all cast members have remained the same, therefore seeing these men being so comfortable in their second skin makes you feel as though these actors have been always and will be forever their superhero alter ego (Edward Nortan played Bruce Banner/ The Hulk in the 2008 film, but due to disputes with the studio, the studio decided to cast Mark Ruffalo as Bruce in The Avengers). The addition of Black Widow and Hawkeye are portrayed perfectly by Scarlette Johanson (I know it’s surprising considering she’s can’t act, but that’s the magic of Joss), and Jeremy Renner.  Even though these characters are minuscule in comparison to their famous team members, Whedon still allows for character development and your are never asking yourself about their back story or where are they off to now,  This goes for every character in The Avengers, Whedon does a brilliant job dissecting each hero/villans persoanlity for the audience, allow us to get to know everyone a little deeper.

The plot of the film is fine, and follows along as a sequel to THOR , but keep in mind this movie is not about the plot, it’s about the characters, comic books coming to life, and the ACTION! So basically, Loki, Thor’s misguided brother, comes to Earth to retrieve the Tesseract, a glowing blue cube with unknown amounts of energy,for the Chitauri, an evil alien race. Loki needs the cube to open a portal between the two worlds so he can summon the Chitauri army to Earth and he can thus become the Ruler of our world. I’m sure you can predict the outcome, but don;t think too deep because the banter between these divas with over inflated egos completely overshadows the plot.

With a reported budget of $220 million no corners were cut in the making of this film.  The CGI was impeccable, putting movies such as The Hunger Games, and probably The Amazing Spiderman, to shame. The amazing work Whedon did at directing this flick and the people behind making the CGI look as real as possible made this film look like just like an epic Avengers cartoon episode.

Joss Whedon took the superhero genre to a whole new level with this film, and now with Iron Man 3, Thor 2, and Captain America 2, being put into development,and hitting theaters in the next year or two, they’re going to have a lot of live up to if they want to create even close to the same sort of buzz The Avengers has done over the last few months.  Regardless, at least we have the sequels to keep us entertained until the recently greenlit Avenger 2 hits theaters sometime in 2015.

PS. Throughout the entire film, I could stop thinking about how awesome it would be to be the HULK to just smash things all day and throw yourself around like a rag doll…such a great way to relieve some stress.

Originally set for release in 2009, through MGM Studios, but because of bankruptcy issues, it’s been thrown around so many times through development hell up until now.  Joss Whedon’s Cabin In The Woods could not have came out at a better time to coincide with the hype for the major epic super awesome summer blockbuster, The Avengers, and to make this cult icon a soon to be a household name.  In true Whedon fashion, you have no idea what you’re in for, but I guarantee it’s a hilariously gory ride into the unknown.

You probably think you know Cabin In The Woods; a twist on the typical slasher horror where a bunch of dumb college kids go into the woods to a recently acquired cottage for a vacation, who in the end all get brutally murdered. The twist, you might think, is an experiment sanctioned by the government or some higher authority (Whedon loves underground labs…)..Or maybe these kids are on a reality show? Or maybe it’s a movie within a movie within a tv show within a dream? Not giving anything away, but remember IT’S  JOSS FUCKING WHEDON, everything can/does happen. Cabin In The Woods goes deep. Just when you think you might have an understanding of where the film is headed, a main character dies and a new twist is thrown in..and there’s still an hour left!  The fast pace of the film with the two story lines occurring side-by-side keep you on the edge of your seats, and the self-aware characters are what really takes Cabin In The Woods to new levels.

At first, the characters seem like stale and flat re-issues from other slasher flicks, but every character is ‘created’ with intention.  Let’s meet the cast: Curt (Chris Helmsworth aka THOR) the dumb jock, Jules (Anna Hutchison) the whore, Dana (Kristen Connolly) the virgin, Holden (Jesse Williams) the jocky nerd, and Marty (Fran Kranz (!!!!)) the burnout. With a fantastic team like this, you can expect a thrill ride of gore, and for added entertainment a plethora of evil creates including a merman, and a blood thirst unicorn. Fanboys will be grinning from ear to ear throughout the entire film, solely on the cast. Chris Helmsworth, the biggest name (right now) is the film, thanks to THOR, and The Avengers will get everyone wet.  Then their is Fran Kranz and Amy Acker of Dollhouse fame who basically play the same chacters they played on Dollhouse except Kranz is way more stoned and Acker is way less sedated. Probably the stand out characters in Cabin In The Woods are Richard Jenkins and Bradley Whitford.  These two provide most of the comic relief throughout the film regardless of their complete disregard for human life, and all you can think by halfway through the film is what sort of clever way has Joss come up with to kill these two dummies. Also, keep your eyes peeled for a brief encounter from a Buffy alumni.

Cabin In The Woods breaks down into a film about making your own choices to create your own destiny, whether that means to choose the colour of your hair, to choose to not turn back or to make a choice that can change humanity.  The first step in Cabin In The Woods that starts the machine that puts all you choices in the hands of gods, is to step into the basement…

At first glance Jiro Dreams of Sushi seems like a movie about, well, sushi, but not too far underneath the surface it’s actually a story about dedication and hard work.  85 year old Jiro Ono is the worlds best sushi as art as food chef in the world, with 3 Michelin stars, because of his dedicated to the craft at a very young age (9), and of course because of his sheer talent. If you’re thinking about flying to Japan for Jiro, you might want to think about it a few months in advance; to get a seat at his 10 seat restaurant underground there is a 2 month to a year wait list, and the starting price for a meal that will last about 15 minutes, will run you about 30 000 YEN (~$375).   The beautiful cinematography done by director David Gelb has you watering at the mouth, almost as if you can taste the juicy pieces.  When each piece is served and you can see the juices and the slight movement of the sushi move on the freshly cleaned plate, the taste is right at your fingertips and you can see the perfection that has gone into each and every piece.

The hard work Jiro has put into his career has transcended to both of his sons, who both aspire to be as good if not better than their father. Because of Japanese tradition, the eldest son must succeed his father, thus Jiro’s son Yoshikazu Ono works with Jiro, who will one day take over the restaurant, and hopefully be able to offer the same high standards.  Jiro’s other son Takashi has opened his own restaurant and still aims to be the best just like his father, but he offers a more relaxed atmosphere, where some customers have told him they find his father intimidating. Any man who is on the very top of his game better be intimidating. Regardless of the pressure Jiro has placed on his sons to be the best, he generally wants their eternal happiness, which can be seen when he talks about how his father abandoned him, forcing him to go to work at a very young age.

Not only do we get to see the the dedication Jiro and his sons have put into being the best, but also the people who work with Jiro, and apprentice under him are made to work hard to create the best cuts, the best egg, the best rice, etc., sometimes taking 4-6 months before they are able to achieve quality standards, and have what they have been working on served to Jiro’s customers. Again, this is not a movie about sushi, it’s about putting in the long hours and the hard work day after day perfecting your craft to achieve something to truly be proud of.  Even if you are not a fan of fish (like myself), Jiro Dreams of Sushi is inspiring, and the beautiful shots by David Gelb has you paralyzed in a dream like state for 80 beautiful minutes.

It’s busy times for Caribou drummer Brad Weber. The multifaceted musician is gearing up for an international summer-long tour with music gods, Radiohead kicking off in Mexico next month. But first, some DJ sets in Germany. And then, somehow the debut release of his other and equally impressive project Pick A Piper. Caribou visits home with a gig at Downsview Park on June 16 (buy tickets now, drugs later). And while he should probably be packing, he instead grants us insight into his brilliant, rhubarb-laced mind with 20Qs.

1. What is your dream of happiness?

Canada actually being liberal and environmentally conscious again.

2. Blonde or Brunette?

Brunette

3. What is the quality you like most in a person?

I like when people listen and aren’t overly distracted by the multitude of things in modern life that can distract!

4. What do you fear most?

Not being able to get rhubarb pie late at night.

5. 808s or 909s?

I only make sounds using general midi.  Preferably the “brass” presets.

6. What’s your biggest regret?

Using anything other than general midi.

7. What’s your fav bar or club in the world?

Razzmatazz in Barcelona

8. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

Photos of meerkats hugging each other.

9. What are the 3 musicians dead or alive you’d like to see perform?

Mitch Mitchell, Elvin Jones, Art Blakey

10. What is your favourite decade in music?

1966-1976 was pretty insane.  But music now also rules.  It’s just exciting to constantly discover new sounds that inspire you.

11. If you had to choose, would you rather go blind or deaf and why?

I’d come down with Oniomania (the compulsive desire to shop).

12. How old is too old?

18… oops, I said that out loud.

13. Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

Bald and grey.  Maybe a little salt and pepper!

14. Who’s your hero?

Marshall Allen… 87 and still touring and is still as insane of a player as ever!

15. What’s your favourite colour?

Apparently “razzmatazz” is an actual colour name too, invented by Crayola in the 90s.

16. What song could you live without ever hearing again?

Whichever Meatloaf song title has the most words in brackets.

17. Metallica or Madonna?

Metallica if it’s just the “Some Kind of Monster” documentary. Have you seen that?  One of the most entertaining things in existence.

18. What’s your most hated vice?

Not having rhubarb pie everyday.

19. Who is the most tragic figure in history?

This dude named Roy Sullivan got struck by lightning seven times, none of which killed him!  But then killed himself over a girl.  That’s pretty tragic.

20. What are the top three live shows you’ve seen in your life?

Tough question!  In the last year I’ve seen some insanely good shows like: Tony Allen, Omar Souleyman, Emeralds, A Hawk and a Hacksaw, Sun Ra Arkestra, The Ex & Getatchew Mekuria and so on.  I guess that’s more than three. Sorry!

Now it’s #HumpdayHandout so you know that means we’ve got something special for you. We’re giving away three pairs of tickets to the Santigold show next week in appreciation of good music and great readers.

Check out the music video for Disparate Youth, a track off her most recent album.

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How to Win:

Post the following phrase on your twitter/facebook and tag us (@pinkmafia4life) in it:

“Let me Master my Make Believe with Santigold on Tuesday May 22 @ Kool Haus”

If you don’t get chosen, we’re sorry, but you can still go to the show, hope is not lost. Tickets are still available on Ticketmaster.

Dear Ask Mica,

I’m a recent grad and have finally returned home from school (4 years away could not have ended sooner). I’m trying to get myself set up with employment. I’ve applied at a number of corporate/more formal companies and therefore I need to look the part. My main problem is that I’m on a limited budget. I’ve taken a part time job until I find something permanent, but I need to look top notch to get these jobs!

Well Dressed and Underfunded

Hi WDU,

This is an issue many new grads face: looking the part while also being able to eat! This sounds like a very important fashion emergency. You didn’t mention what kind of jobs you’re applying for (marketing, fashion PR, law clerk…) so I put together a few outfit ideas for you based on where you’re interviewing.

1. Very Corporate Company

This place is likely a hedge fund/law firm, and the people who run it are aged 50+. Does this sound like the spot? This is not a time to be super creative in your outfitting. Keep it basic but lovely. For the job interview I’d go with a sold suit, nice top and very clean shoes. For the guys, same thing. And ALWAYS pay attention to what socks you’re wearing. This can actually make or break your chance there. Try and scope out the top dogs at the firm beforehand/bring an extra pair (i.e. wear plain dress socks but bring a funky pair with you.

2. Creative But Not Really Casual

Likely at a boutique firm or a designer’s head office, this is the place to show off your creativity, but do not go too far. Once you get the job you can sport clothes that reflect the potentially wacky clothes some might wear. This is the time to wear a cropped cardigan with high waisted pants and funky heels. For you dudes, arygle socks are bow ties and are ok. Watch the Devil Wears Prada and take tips.

OR 

3. You’re not really sure, but it’s probably in between

Think business separates: a jersey blazer with a pencil skirt; dress pants, sweater vest and a button down. Dress as if you were meeting your significant other’s parents. Nothing too risqué, but make sure it does show off that you have a bit of a fun side.

Some good spots to shop:

- Joe Fresh (for basics as well as some cheap funky pieces)

- Urban Outfitters (for funky shoes **Warning: If you’d wear it to the park on a Saturday, it is not appropriate)

- Ben Sherman (regular priced goods aren’t super cheap but they have good sales)

- Aritzia (same as Ben Sherman – sales are the best time to hit this spot)

- The Bay…but specifically TopShop/TopMan (for everything under the sun, they have you covered)

That being said, we’re going to make your life’s a whole lot better by giving away 3 of their new albums, A Joyful Noise.

HOW TO WIN:

Check out our FACEBOOK page every Monday (yes today) until the album release for our Gossip Trivia Question. If you know the answer, post it as a comment. Answering enters you in the contest to win, every answer on each Monday gives you an entry ballot and a better chance to win.

Winners will be announced and contacted on May 22nd

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ANOTHER COLLABO H&M x ANNA DELLO RUSSO

Yes, that’s right peoples… H&M has announced an outrageous accessory collabo with the one and only street style icon Anna Dello Russo aka ADR. If you don’t know who ADR is let me give you the 411 – she’s the editor-at-large/creative consultant at Vogue Japan, but her claim to fame is her outrageous street style that has landed on ever blog you can think of… not to mention 4,000 pairs of shoes doesn’t hurt.

From what I’ve seen H&M x ADR won’t disappoint as the collection drips in her with flamboyant and ornate sense of style. The collection will be available as of October 4, 2012, in around 140 stores worldwide and online… best part the collection features everything from jewelry,sunglasses, shoes, and of course bags!!

“Unabashedly glamorous, precious and playful, the range is an expression of Dello Russo’s taste for ornamentation.” For the full deets, click here!!

Before I forget here’s my Lancome Teint Idole Ultra 24H portrait by Shane Turner, just incase you forgot here’s how he made me – click here to watch the video!!

In case you missed my post earlier this week (click me to jog the memory), I was asked to participate in the Tretorn Nylite Project 2.0 - where I basically got a chance to pimp out a pair of classic! To check me out click here!!

As always thanks for following my adventures on the Fashion Frontier!!

XOXO… Pinkie

As Toronto begins to thaw out, we are all eagerly trying to find that perfect patio to invade for after work drinks, throw on a pair of shades, bask in the sun and be seen.  Well, right in the heart of King West, is Brassaii (461 King Street West) a stylish Mediterranean-inspired resto whose patio is the place to be seen and all the while have great food.

Just recently, Brassaii released their Spring/Summer menu under new executive chef, Chris Kalisperas.  The focus of the menu of fresh and seasonal ingredients that will inspire and energize.

Swordfish Carpaccio ($17):
Garnished with fennel, grapes, watercress and extra virgin olive oil was light.  A perfect summer dish that would not feel heavy after a long hot day.

Burrata ($17):
A vegetarian friendly dish, this was one of my favorites over the course of the evening. Grilled eggplant over fresh rosemary, almonds and white balasmic – it gave the essence of a meat dish without the meat.  Flavorful and rich with all the textures working well together.

Risotto ($22):
This dish was absolutely to die for.  White asparagus, wild leeks, fava beans and parmigiano-reggiano made for an absolutely explosion of flavors in your mouth.  Combined with a glass of white wine of the patio.  Served as a main dish, this will leave you licking your plate and begging for mouth.

Tuna ($29):
After eating this, I don’t think I will be able to eat any other tuna other than Grilled Yellowfin.  This main dish comes alongside a puree of parsnips (yum!) and green lentils keeping it healthy and fresh.  The tuna has also been kept on the tart side with capers and chili.  Overall, another healthy and delicious choice for summer.

With Brassaii’s new Spring/Summer menu catering to the Financial District elite while keeping their price point in line for all the hip-twentysomethings to enjoy ($13-$40) alike be it on the patio or in the restaurant, Brassaii is sure to be a hit this summer amongst all.

Growing up in London, Ontario, a young Theo Dimson developed a lifelong fascination with the geometry of the night’s sky. While his curiosities also tended towards the dramatic here on Earth, with an interest in the bold graphics of comic books and cinema, Dimson’s artistic gaze would forever be locked skyward.

By the 1940s the Kabakoupolous’ had moved to Toronto’s Danforth, bought a grocery store and anglicized their name to Dimson. Theophanis was shortened to Theo and the youngest of four boys was already impressing people with his drawing talents.

Following graduation from OCAD in 1950, an apprenticeship at Arts Association Limited Toronto (where he would later become president and director), plus some years spent freelancing, Theo Dimson would become internationally know for his Art Deco style theatre and movie posters that made use of his strong sense of geometry, symmetry, and drama. From the mythological stories of the constellations to the characters in comics, Dimson developed a love of the archetypal Hero. Dimson was also a romantic who loved musicals, and the works his literary hero, F. Scott Fitzgerald, particularly The Great Gatsby (it is said he read the novel over 50 times). All of these elements are boldly on display in every piece he created.

Fashion, as well as his work, was a stage to showcase his flamboyance. He could be spotted wearing skull print scarves and biker boots. With his special joie de vivre, even as he reached his 80s, Dimson sported threads from clothing lines popular with rappers and fitted suits with capes and his once signature fedora.

Ever cheeky and with the times Dimson once posted to his Facebook page, “You can Google me, as long as you still respect me in the morning.”

Dimson’s work has been featured in magazines the world over. From Idea Magazine in Japan to Switzerland’s Graphis Magazine. He will be remembered here in Canada for his stamps for Canada Post, his solo show at the ROM in 1993-94 and for his final show in February of 2010 at the Theatre Museum of Canada, aptly titled “Distinctly Different.” His designs have also graced Hollywood, with the titles for such films as Cher’s 1987 Moonstruck, among other Norman Jewison pictures.

It’s entirely fitting that Dimson’s work would ultimately go up into space as he was asked to design the arm patches for Canadian astronauts working with the Canadarm. He would also design the titles for Hail Columbia, an IMAX picture about the space shuttle Columbia.

Theo Dimson passed away from complications of pneumonia on Janurary 18^th, 2012. In one of his last moments here on Earth his daughter, Nicole, read to him from The Great Gatsby one last time.

How to Win:

Every Monday leading up to the 22nd, check out the Pink Mafia Facebook page, for trivia questions about the band and shoot us your answers to enter. We’ll announce THREE winners on May 22nd and mail that shit out pronto.

The more times you play, the better your chance to win. So get on it and get studying.

Check out the video for their comeback single, Perfect World, to get you in the mood to win:

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With a back pocket of featured artists from ‘Songs’ like The Drums, Young Empires, and Rural Alberta Advantage, this YLMC #HumpDayHandout is a party you won’t want to miss. A true double header, ‘Songs’ will have you bending the boards at Sneaky Dee’s with Holy Fuck’s Brian Borcherdt on the decks, all the whilst raising a toast in the name of Cousin’s brand new EP.

No Brainer, kitty cat in a cowboy hat! Bypass that line on College Street and get in to this sucker absolutely free.

How to Enter:

1) Follow @YoungLionsClub and @PinkMafia4life on Twitter. 2) AND Post a tweet that reads, “I want to get down with Holy Fuck and @YoungLionsClub  from #HumpDayHandout.”

OR, if you’re of the Facebook lurking persuasion…

1) Like PinkMafia and Young Lions Music Club Facebook pages. 2) AND Tag PinkMafia & Young Lions Music Club in a status update with the name of an artist you’d like to see featured at an upcoming Songs: A Dance Party. 

There will be another Dudebox rager this month so keep in touch and check out the Dudebox Facebook and Twitter feeds for the announcement of where it’s going down and what it’s going to be for.

In the meantime, Said Yassin of Dudebox was kind enough to fill out our 20 Questions this week:

1. What is your dream of happiness?

Being able to travel the world, cook food and volunteer as much as possible.

2. Blonde or Brunette?

i like girls with hair. so i guess i go both ways.

3. What is the quality you like most in a person?

Selflessness. I like when people care about each other.

4. What do you fear most?

going bald and not having the financial stability to sporadically buy my friends lunches or pay for them to get the hair and nails done when I run into them at the salon.

5. 808s or 909s?

808′s all day

6. What’s your biggest regret?

Not having seen enough of the world. I’m 26 now and the furthest place I’ve been was Kansas in 97. We drove there and it wasn’t fun.

7. What’s your fav bar or club in the world?

Anywhere bar in London Ontario, I grew up there and when I go back all the university kids think I’m either Tyler the Creator or Andre 3000 ( I look like neither) so people treat me like I’m a big deal.

8. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

3 way tie. wireless internet, super sharp knives and  jean jackets

9. What are the 3 musicians dead or alive you’d like to see perform?

biggie smalls (he’s the illest) curtis mayfield and mr purple rain

10. What is your favorite decade in music?

the 90′s, specifically early 90′s hip hop. Illmatic and Midnight Marauders

11. If you had to choose, would you rather go blind or deaf and why?

I’d rather go deaf. I have to look fly all the time and I’m already to clumsy to be blind.

12. How old is too old?

46

13. Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

Owning a hole in the wall resturant that the community apperciates. And driving a cab on the weekends.

14. Who’s your hero?

my mother and Hakeem Olajuwon

15. What’s your favourite colour?

Yella

16. What song could you live without ever hearing again?

that song by Journey or Living on a Prayer by whoever sings it.

17. Metallica or Madonna?

Neither. maybe Madonna

18. What’s your most hated vice?

I really like candy and my teeth are so messed up, but I can’t stop myself.

19. Who is the most tragic figure in history?

Raven Simone, she peaked at 6 years old then everything went down hill

20. What are the top three live shows you’ve seen in your life?

The Roots, Pharcyde and A Tribe Called Quest ( for the tribe show, I got a ticket from a friend an hour before the show, then when i got to the show I found a ticket on the ground and sold it to a scalper for 3x times the amount, then lost all my friends when I got into the show but then made friends with 6 Asian guys who spoke no English and partied with them

When my Nylite’s arrived I was excited, nervous and anxious all at the same time!! I mean DIYing anything, especially shoes is not an easy task… you gotta decide on materials, colours, technique, sooo many things. To be honest I came up with about fifty different ideas on what I wanted to TRY (keyword is TRY)- from sequins to sparkly cheetah print I had a bunch of ideas before I settled on just one. I’m not sure what to call my DIY style: a lil tribal mixed with a colour-block mash up if you please. Peep below see to “How I DIYed my Nylite’s”!!

It’s not that difficult, I grabbed a pack markers to be specific the 80′s Glam courtesy of Sharpie and went to town. To be honest, I tried to trace out the pattern  with pencil but I found it made the colour smudge.

After speaking to my DIY homie @SeptembreA she mentioned I could have used invisible pen (I had no clue it’s my first DIY rodeo)!! So after gaining my composure I got into a little rhythm and groove and before I knew things where coming together (not like you can tell from this pic).

Tip: If you are going to use markers make sure they are of the fabric variety and are fine tip (it will make your life much more easier)!!

Okay, finally one shoe done that only took an hour and a half!!!! With that said once I had the pattern done, it was a lot easier to bang out the other shoe.

Voilà, I’M ALL DONE, I can’t believe I really finished them!!! I was plagued with a little self doubt on the how they looked, but after some positive feedback… I have grown to love my Nylite’s in all their tribal-funkiness!! Click here to check them out and the rest of the Nylite Project 2.0!!

I hope you like and even more importantly I hope you try this easy DIY… super simple and cheap way to keep you fresh!!

XOXO… Pinkie

Volunteer to be the DW next time you and your crew heads out to party. According to Urban Dictionary, a Designated Walker or DW makes sure everyone gets put in a cab, safely home.

We re-worked this concept for 2012 . You are The Virgin, not just the DW. In exchange for being The Virgin for your crew, part of the deal is that the favour will be returned. You will be able to return to your normal non-Virgin self the next time you head out to hit the clubs. Someone else in the group gets to be The Virgin AKA the DW and so on. Respect is earned if you also see the need to keep bad camera angles and Twit Pics separate. Especially if someone is having “the worst night of their life .. EVER.” The Virgin, can be your best pal.

As The Virgin you can still get away with saying outrageous drink names as much as your crew when they are placing their orders. You can say “I will have Safe Sex on the Beach” and still ask “Does anyone want to take my cherry?” while holding up the cherry served with the drink. Bonus points for posing with a total straight face. Put the word virgin in front of any drink. How about a Virgin Mojito or a Virgin Strawberry Margarita . Saying, “Its a Bloody Shame that I am not drinking” still gets you a vegetable juice based drink, complete with celery stick. You can still add all the hot sauce you like.

The Virgin either does not drink at all, or maybe one or two  as you have to get everyone’s drunk ass’s home. You can be the willing victim of a Body Shot . Who doesn’t like the idea of their bodies being vessels for alcohol consumption? Here’s a new and easy way to lay down and take it. Sugar sprinkled on the neck, to then be licked off for a vodka shot sucked out of the navel WITH a lemon wedge taken from the mouth. Here’s the best video i could find about how to take this body shot. Mmmmmmm …. Sexy….

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To no longer be The Virgin, the next time your crew goes out, someone else takes a turn. Since you lost out on a night drinking, you might as well make up for lost time.

It started out as just being an regular Orgasm.
This drink commonly known as “being made on your B.A.C.K.”, with Bailey’s, Amaretto, half and half Cream and Kahlua. A “Screaming Orgasm” is a layered drink with five delights : Vodka, Amaretto, Triple Sec, White Creme de Cacao, and Light Cream. Apparently, the original needed an extra kick. Or, go all out and order a “Bald Pussy” This is a vodka based long drink served in a high ball glass WITH : melon liqueur, lime vodka, Absolut® vodka, triple sec, blueberry schnapps and splashes of lime juice and 7-Up® soda. The Blow Job shot is topped with whipped cream as high as you like it. This shot involves a liptease and hands behind your back. You then lean over and lift up to swallow the shot in one gulp. Here’s a video that shows how to properly make it and take it.
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The “May 24″ coming up in just a few weeks. This is Canada’s first party weekend of the year. Getting tipsy is usually part of the party plan, with little exception. I mean, the silly laughter that never ends, the ability to dance better, holding your cup of brew or beverage just so. To feel way more confident to flirt and have fun. To flip it around, and be The Virgin can be hilarious. Take it from someone who has been The Virgin on more than one occasion. Knowing you have your crew’s back is totally worth it, as next time, they have yours. Just think of yourself as the Designated Driver with legs. The contact high from being The Virgin AKA the DW can be quite profound.

words by shona