This Father's Day, go beyond the barbecue. We've selected twelve classy gifts from top shops around the city that will make him feel like an ultra-dapper dad. - Stephanie Matchung
Jun 12
May 30
Empreinte Spring/Summer Collection
Lily Rose Bra | Images Courtesy Dianes Lingerie
French lingerie expert Lyne Glanzmann says there are three things to keep in mind when shopping for a bra:
1. Seek out a store with lingerie specialists, and get fitted every time you shop.
2. Come prepared with an idea of what it is you need. A bra for every day, or for a special occasion? What colour? What fabric?
3. Every woman is different, so keep an open mind to styles that will ultimately flatter you most - you may be fixed on a plunge design, but a demi cup could be much more complimenting to your physique.
Empreinte is the crème de la crème of curvaceous bras - a beautiful, high-quality French line for those of us whose 'girls' just don't fit into the mass-produced varieties. Visit Dianes Lingerie on South Granville for a number of styles and sizes from C-H. Our favourites from the new Spring/Summer collection are the cheerful Juliette ($140), Kaela ($160) in deep plum with gold accents, the ultra-feminine Maud ($182), and stunning Irina ($194). - Stephanie Matchung
May 22
J.Crew Pacific Centre Now Open
Vancouver's second J.Crew store is now officially open in Pacific Centre. We dropped in the new women's wear-only shop this week to preview some preppy summer staples but left with a few bright surprises! The sales girl running around in the Postage Stamp embroidered mini in neon yellow ($172) literally stole the show - poor thing couldn't go two steps without someone gushing - and the in-store-only black and white geometric print sundress ($170) was a close second. The CeCe flats ($160) are as comfortable as they are cute, and this season is the perfect time to complement your blacks and beiges with some hot pink and yellow. At your next garden party, pair J.Crew's timeless chino shorts (now $45) with a striped sleveless blouse ($80) in breezy lightweight cotton, and grab an Invitation clutch in trendy cork ($160) to finish the look. - Jennifer Giesbrecht
May 9
Mother's Day Gift Picks 2013
You know Mom will treasure anything you give her (the macaroni art still hanging in the den is proof enough). But she's probably hipper than you think, so give to impress this weekend with some of the hottest items in the city. Also seen on Friday's CTV Morning Live! - Stephanie Matchung
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May 6
Spring Style at Beaucoup Bakery
This spring, Beaucoup Bakery is taking a cue from haute couture with fruity, decadent, and colourful designs nodding to the latest fashion trends. The Vanilla Mille Feuille ($5.50) - a creamy and caramelized puff pastry - pays homage to sculptural ruffles on the runway. The Devil's in the details, and visible vanilla bean speckles and jellies add a pop to this light and luxurious dessert. The new Fresh Berry Tart ($5.50) is inspired by the season's statement-making primary colours. The frangipane base is deceptively buttery (in a good way - a very good way), but the toppings like fresh summer berries, candied orange peel, and baby macarons (!) steal the show. If Mom has a sweet tooth, we recommend grabbing a pretty pink (and satiatingly-sized) Raspberry Pistachio Macaron Frais ($6.25) for the special day. The edible floral garnish could even save you a trip to the florist. - Leah Golob
