As 2013 settles in, we get back to scouring the city for the newest shops and coolest products. A few of our finds might just help you realize those pesky New Year's resolutions; others will get you Valentine's Day-ready.
Jan 25
Jan 18
Powder Puff Beauty Party
It’s going to be a makeover party like no other (ie. no pajamas, no singing along to Grease on VHS). On Tuesday, January 22nd, drop by the beauty section of Holt Renfrew for The Powder Puff Beauty Party. From 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm, the HR cosmetics counters will transform into a glittering showcase of 2013 product previews. In addition to prizes and special offers, guests can bring two makeup brushes to be professionally cleaned by BeautySoClean and get their brows waxed by Holts Salon & Spa. Other complimentary services include makeup demonstrations, mini manicures, and hand paraffin treatments from the likes of Chanel, YSL, Butter London, Sisley, Balenciaga, and more. And what kind of Holt Renfew party would it be without magenta mocktails and canapés? Tickets are $25 but redeemable towards beauty purchases of $75 or more on the night of the event (so—essentially free). Space is limited so sign up online now or through the in-store concierge. – Jennifer Giesbrecht
Jan 14
Lululemon (Ware)house Party
It’s Lululemon, so you already know that if they’re having a warehouse sale, you should expect a little more than dusty tables full of last year’s designs. If you’ve ever wanted to break into your best yoga poses in the middle of BC Place Stadium, this is your chance. On Friday night, limber up for your shopping spree with a 90-minute “Stadium Vinyasa” session with your favourite instructors from One Yoga. Or if Saturday night is your time to shine, meet some certified “rockstar” lifestyle coaches who will help you set your new Lulu-lifestyle in motion.
A few things to remember: bring your own mat (or buy one at the sale!), it’s debit and credit only (so leave your cash and gift cards at home), and all sales are final. For more information, see their Facebook event listing. - Jennifer Giesbrecht
Dec 19
West Elm Market Now Open
Just back from the new West Elm Market shop, which opened its doors today, and for all those holiday-shopping procrastinators out there, you've been given a life line. Modelled after an old-timey general store, Market stocks regionally-sourced, small-production goods in four categories: kitchen (Greenpan cookware, Schmidt Bros knives, awesome condo-sized Smeg refrigerators, cookbooks); care & repair (soaps and cleaners from Common Good; tools; ostrich feather and lambswool dusters); personal care (lovely candles, skin care products by Sam's Natural, Meow Meow Tweet, and more); and garden (planters and pots; heirloom seeds from Hudson Valley in artist-designed pouches). Lots of Western Canadian producers are represented (with more to come) and prices are on par with the original Brooklyn location (there's a first). Plus, there's an excellent coffee bar pouring from Philadelphia-based coffee roasters La Colombe Torrefaction and offering snacks by Main Street bakery The Last Crumb. You gotta go! I finished my Christmas shopping in about 10 minutes flat.
2915 Granville St., 604-734-9302.
Dec 19
Leone Shoe Sale
Leone's always carried hot brands like Versace, Prada, Dior, Miu Miu, Lanvin, Jean-Michel Cazabat and Prada Sport, but these big names have some new company: collections from Alexander Mcqueen, Port 1961, Reek Krakoff and ASH now populate the Shoe Salon (and this Spring, Gianvito Rossi's women's collection join their ranks). Right now, save 50 to 60% off Fall/Winter 2012 styles. We don't know when this awesome deal ends, so act fast. —Stacey McLachlan
Leone, 757 West Hastings Street, leone.ca/shoes
