z_Naked Lunch

What kids wear

Today David Graham discussed his story - Back to the Fashion Battles - in which child development experts say that kids should be allowed to wear what they want, that it's a safe and healthy form of growth. Do you agree or not? Send your comments to nakedlunch@thestar.ca.

And join us again next Thursday for another Naked Lunch chat.

Humans are very tribal. I think that we dress like peers in order to feel we belong. Just look at the various cliques in schools - they each have their own code of dress. And it continues on as we get older too. How many of us feel that we need the season's "it" purse in order to be accepted by our fashion peers? Or that we must wear Prada on our feet? Is that necessarily a bad thing? Or does it mean that we fashion enthusiasts simply have not matured? That we are still insecure children at heart? Bernadette

I think a lot of kids appropriate the look without embracing the associated lifestyle. How many kids in the sixties dressed like hippies without necessarily taking an anti-war stance? We have to presume they are innocent. The real gift here is that some kids literally wear their emotions on their sleeve and they may be presenting an opportunity to talk about what goth means to them and why they find the look appealing. David

As a parent, I am not so worried about the fashions, but about the lifestyle that may be associated with certain "looks". For instance, if a teenagers gets a Mohawk hairstyle, are they doing drugs with their friends? Bernadette

Thanks for your comments. Mostly, as an adult deeply embedded in the workforce I agree with you. But I had to learn a lot of these lessons the hard way. And in my youth I made a lot of mistakes. So in the long run I agree with the child development experts who suggest fashion can be a launching point for discussions about appropriate attire. Rather that just tell a student that their clothes are wrong, ask them to explain why they are making these choices. In some sense it could be percieved as an opportunity for all parties to learn something about each other and the power of fashion. David

As a teacher of 12-13 year olds, I cannot tell you how many students arrive at school showing midriffs, bra straps, cleavage and wearing shirts with offensive slogans on them. Patterns and styles, goth or punk, coloured hair, these are not the issues and are fine with me. The issue is students showing too much skin and bringing a sexual element into the classroom, or a violent/anti-social mentality based on slogans. It becomes difficult to establish a positive relationship with students who are in their rebellious years and are resisting school and whose relationship to the teacher will be crucial for their learning, when I continually have to tell them that their dress is inappropriate for school. Where are the parents in this? They must have purchased the clothing for their kids and must be sending the message that it's okay to wear this to school. Teachers would like parents to take more of an active role in ensuring that their children are dressed properly for the circumstances. Mats

Leggings

Today fashion editor Bernadette Morra and stylist Derick Chetty discussed leggings. Read the archived discussion below and send your thoughts to nakedlunch@thestar.ca.

Great piece on leggings and love the photo spread inside. The text advised "cardigans with boxy cropped jackets".  Not sure what that means... long cardies under jackets? Sharon

Yes, it's all part of the layered look that is very big for fall. You can find lightweight long cardigans or sweaters that come just below the hips. Layer these under a short cropped jacket - it can be one of those abbreviated boxy jackets with cropped sleeves - great mod looking ones currently at H&M - or a wool peacoat. Derick

York University student Lauren DeMonte in leggings from Aritzia.

I noticed most of the people in the Frockwatch column were all wearing opaque - mostly black - leggings. I would love to wear this trend in the winter. Is it acceptable to wear the chunky cable knit leggings? Where can I find those?

Yes, you're right, this summer most women are opting for the lighter cotton leggings in black. But come winter, I'm sure you will find the heavier ribbed leggings in cashmere or a wool blend. If you are going to wear the more textured variety, make sure you pair it with knits - as in a soft long sweater or cardigan or heavy wool coat.  A floaty chiffon dress or skirt will only bring the emphasis on the heavy look on your legs. Also with textured leggings, balance the look with chunky heeled ankle boots. In terms of where you can find them, I would check out Holt Renfrew for the DKNY brand. Derick

I was delighted to read in the Star Fashion pages this morning that leggings are back "in". I have always adored leggings and I think they really show off good legs to great advantage, however they do seem to emphasize shortcomings like chunkiness. What are your thoughts? Lucinda

I think it depends on where the leggings stop and whether you are wearing a mini skirt. For a more streamlined look choose a black opaque legging that goes all the way to the ankle. Stick to skirts or dresses that are knee length or stop just just below the knee. And gain a leg lengthening look by also wearing heels with your leggings. Derick

Some of us have the opposite problem, Lucinda. I have always had very skinny legs with barely any calf muscles. So I find leggings and flats tend to exaggerate the scrawniness, not a great look if your body is NOT as scrawny as your limbs. Also, the leggings themselves tend to stretch and look baggy, especially at the knees. Also not a great look. So I buy size small and handwash them in cool water, because any heat will cause breakdown of the Lycra that helps keep the snug look. Bernadette

One of the retailers in your story says the colour to wear is black, black and black. But when can you wear brown or grey?

You can wear the grey leggings with navy blue and different shades of grey. The brown you could wear with different shades of camel and khaki. Black goes with everything. You don't have to think about it. It even goes with a printed skirt or dress. Mixing different hues in the same family eg. various shades of greys or browns, is trickier to pull off. But when done well, can look fantastic and much more interesting than all black, or black and white. Derick

Leggings with a satin cocktail dress at the Versace show in Milan.

How should I wear leggings? What are the general rules? With heels? Flats? Something big on top? I've noticed that this look can look 'cheap' if not worn properly. How can I avoid looking, er, trashy? How is this trend different from how leggings were worn in the eighties? How low should my Body Mass Index be to pull this off? Melissa

Hi Melissa, Thanks for your questions. Most were addressed in today's article on leggings in the Fashion Section. But here is a quick recap. It's very different from how they were worn in the 80s. The cardinal rule - do not wear as pants. This time around, it's all about layering. Wear them under a mini skirt or dress or layer a long sweater/cardigan over them. You will find plenty of these in any mall store (Club Monaco, Gap). Polish the look off with a cropped swingy jacket.
In terms of footwear, stick to chunky ankle boots if you're wearing them with a sweater and jacket on top. If you're going for dresses or mini skirts, try them with a pair of flats.
As far as your BMI - thankfully it's one of those trends that anyone can wear. Check out Frockwatch in the Fashion Section today. We show a variety of women in Toronto of different sizes and ages that are already wearing leggins. Derick

I read today's article in The Star on fall's fashionable leggings.  For religious reasons, I do not wear pants and dress conservatively in skirts and dresses (no minis), though I do like to stay on top of some trends.  Is there a way I can pull off the legging look this season? Anonymous

Hi Anonymous. I wouldn't want to give you advice that is going to go against your principles. But since you are looking for guidance I would suggest wearing leggings that go right down to your ankles under your skirts and dresses. I guess they could be interpreted as footless tights from a religious point of view, though, from a trend perspective, they are leggings. I hope this helps. By the way, I think it's wonderful that you are looking for a way to blend your religious principles and current styles. Such confidence and individuality are the characteristics of someone who has true style. Bernadette

Stuff by Hilary Duff

This week, fashion editor Bernadette Morra discussed her interview with Hilary Duff, and the new Stuff by Hilary Duff collection. You can read the archived discussion below. Check out the photo gallery at www.thestar.com/fashion, then tell us what you think about Hilary's new designs at nakedlunch@thestar.ca. And join us again next week for Naked Lunch.

Who is Hilary's favourite designer?

I didn't ask her that question but probably should have. But I did ask her about everything she was wearing and I get the impression from that that she doesn't go for the really big labels. Everybody she mentionned - from James Perse, to her custom made jeans, to her amazing jewelry - are small, groovy, L.A. brands, not big household names. She knew the names of all the indie designers she was wearing and seems to really appreciate their creativity and craftsmanship. This is another thing that really impressed me about Hilary. It tells me that she has the confidence to wear whatever she wants. Hilary Duff is definitely not a fashion victim. And she wasn't trying to impress by name-dropping. Bernadette

Who else did Hilary have with her at your interview?

Hilary travels with her tour manager, a youngish man in a Led Zeppelin T-shirt and jeans who spent the whole hour and a half I was there on his phone, a Blackberry, and Troy, the big black guy you sometimes see in photos of her. I assumed he was her bodyguard but I think he does much more than that. I was told he used to be her voice coach and that now he is her "right hand." He was on the laptop answering emails, guarding Hilary's fabulous jewelry during her fashion magazine shoot, and taking pictures of her and the photo crew with Hilary's own little digital camera. I assume they are for her personal photo collection. She also travels with her mom, Susan, who was at a meeting while I was there so I didn't get to meet her. Bernadette

Do you know where Hilary got the necklace she wore to Muchmusic?

Yes, I asked her about it during our interview. It's lots of little matte silver crosses, skulls and fleur de lis on mesh, suspended by two black straps. The designer she mentionned is H. Lorenzo. She really seems to love jewelry. Hilary "translates" the jewelry she likes for an accessories that you can find at Claire's. Bernadette

Adelaide, below, makes a good point about Stuff in that it is not too young, but not too adult either. In fact, it's the first fashion collection I have seen that really interprets "adult" styles in a teen way. I found it very much like a younger version of Rock and Republic, the cool jeans brand. I also found it very different from the MaryKateandAshley brand which seemed more junior to me. I also think that Hilary is very different from Mary Kate and Ashley, and I think this really comes through in Stuff by Hilary Duff. Bernadette

I looked through the photo gallery and to be honest I liked 2 of the 4 outfits (the all black one and little jacket with the chain). I would like to see more colourful funky flower stuff and funkier jeans. I am glad Hilary has fashion for my age because I do not want to look like an adult and I do not want to look like my little sister either. Adelaide

Hi Adelaide, you'll be happy to know that there are some funkier jeans and flowery tops in the collection. Unfortunately the public relations company only gave us the four photos that you see in the gallery. But they also provided some sketches which showed lots of cool items. My favourite is a denim miniskirt with black leggings attached. I think Hilary was wearing a version of this when she went shopping on Bloor St. earlier this week. The photo we have in the newspaper shows the miniskirt. What you can't see is that she was wearing black leggings with it. Bernadette

What were your impressions of Hilary when you interviewed her?

I was so impressed by Hilary. When I arrived at the Park Hyatt Hotel just before 1 p.m., she was in the middle of a fashion shoot for a local magazine. She was dressed in a flashy white pantsuit and she looked amazing. She was standing on a backdrop, and was in that one spot in the position the photographer wanted her in for about half an hour while he, the art director, hairstylist, makeup artist, wardrobe stylist and photographer's assistant fussed about her, fixing her hair and makeup, changing the lighting, discussing how to improve the shot. She was very quiet, good-humoured and patient. She had one more outfit to shoot, then a bunch of interviews, then, finally she would have lunch. She had a long day ahead of her, including a Muchmusic appearance, a meet and greet with kids from some local charities, and then, finally, her performance. I asked one of her assistants if she would have any time for a rest in between. He said, "not much." Any one of those events - a fashion shoot, live TV, and a stage performance - takes a huge amount of energy. Hilary is clearly a very strong, healthy and driven young woman. Bernadette

How to become a fashion editor

Last week fashion editor Bernadette Morra and stylist Derick Chetty answered your fashion editing and styling career queries. To add a comment, click here and scroll past the discussion to the comments area. And join us again Thursday for the Naked Lunch chat.

I am graduating from journalism school next year, (bachelor journalism and psychology honours), and am wondering how I can prepare myself for a communications position at fashion firm. Devon in Barrie

Check out the one year post-graduate public relations programme at Humber College. Derick

What kind of experience would be useful for someone considering a job as a fashion editor/writer? Natalie

Freelance for your school newspaper. Appoint yourself the fashion editor. Get out there and write as much as you can, even if it's for free. Profile young designers who are hungry for exposure. Cover indie fashion shows and collectives. You will develop a voice and a point of view. You will also get a chance to practice editorial writing, which is very different from writing a thesis or essay. You may even meet a magazine or newspaper fashion editor that you can pitch a story to. Bernadette

I'm going into my second year at U of T, majoring in English. Would you say your education at U of T was useful for your work now, or do you wish you would have gone to Ryerson like you originally wanted? Natalie

I am a very fatalistic person and this is one of the reasons why. I wanted to work in media. My parents pushed me in another direction. But like a boomerang I wound up in media. So I can't say I would rather have gone to Ryerson because I probably would have still wound up sitting in this chair. As for whether U of T was useful? Of course it was, perhaps not to my job today, but any knowledge gained whether it is intellectual, spiritual or emotional can only be a good thing, no matter how painful or uncomfortable the learning process is. Bernadette

What university/college did you graduate from? What did you major in? How did you become a stylist? Apolicht

I graduated from Ryerson Polytechnical University and majored in Fashion Communication. I am very lucky to do both styling and fashion editing/writing. For a stylist, there isn't a school program to take where you can train. The best way to start is to find a stylist that you can assist. There are three kinds of stylists - fashion, movie/television and prop stylists. A fashion stylist works mostly for magazines styling fashion editorials or celebrity profiles. A strong fashion background is needed for this - knowledge of fashion/hair/makeup trends, where to find product and how to pick the right model for a particular story. If you're interested in this you should get an internship at one of the fashion magazines.
A movie/television/commercial stylist should have some sewing/alteration experience and a large amount of shopping skills - by this I mean, you need to know the city inside out. When the director yells he needs a purple paisley dressing gown - you need to know exactly where to go to get that immediately.
A prop stylist is one who is an expert at working with inanimate objects. You know those pics in The Bay's flyers where the bunch of ties are perfectly curled? It's an art. A different kind of prop stylist is one who would decorate a movie or television set. It's not just about finding the stuff to use, a lot of research is involved. How to get the look of a 1920's French cafe? They would consult numerous sources to get the look down  pat. 
Short answer - whichever you're interested in, find someone who does that and assist, soak up as much as you can. And be prepared to do it for free. As for how long it takes to get from a writer to fashion editor - it varies and it's certainly not a clear route. Derick

What kind of salary is there to be made in this industry? Clare

Fashion is not the area you want to work in if money is your prime motivation. But there are lots of perks. At the newspaper we are sent to cover fashion shows in Milan, Paris and New York. We are also invited to lots of events and launches. And there are lots of beauty samples that, if beauty writing is part of the job, we are allowed to try. Newspaper generally do not allow their staffs to accept gifts. However, magazines are a different story. They can also take the free trips offered by the fashion and beauty companies to such fabulous spots as the south of France, Swiss spas and the Paris couture.

Can you define what a fashion editor is and does? James

Essentially the role of the fashion editor is to decide what is reported on in the newspaper or magazine. We are absolutely bombarded with requests from people who want us to write about their products and services. The fashion editor must have a well-defined vision based on their readership and the overall thrust of their publication and use this vision to decide who should be covered and who should not. Magazine fashion editors must also balance pressure from advertisers who feel that they are entitled to coverage in the magazine. Bernadette

What kind of schooling is required to become a fashion editor? Clare

There is no one direct path to becoming a fashion editor. If you got all the fashion people from all the magazines and newspapers in this city together, they would each give you very different stories of how they arrived at their jobs. Some may have studied journalism, some came from different areas of writing, such as music, some found their way to magazine styling after graduating from fashion school. There is no one school you can go to to become a fashion editor. Bernadette

So how did you get your job?

After high school (Lawrence Park C.I.), I wanted to go to Ryerson for radio and television arts, but my parents wouldn't let me. They insisted I go to University of Toronto, where I got a B.A. in criminology and sociology. After that I did one year at Sheridan College in a media writing programme which no longer exists. It was a fantastic course for someone who loves to write, because it covered writing for film, TV, radio and print. I learned everything from writing a radio ad to a newpaper story to a feature film. Most valuable was that the programme broke me from an academic style of writing, into a more commercially viable editorial style.

After one year of Sheridan I was itching to get into the work force. I really wanted to be a music critic, but I started out getting a job editing closed captioned subtitles for TV. While working for a small, independant firm, I pitched some stories to the music writer at Canadian Press. He couldn't give me any freelance work, but he later was promoted to editor of a lifestyle division. He called me and asked me if I would like to freelance for him. There was only one problem. It wasn't about music. He said he wanted me to write fashion. It was like a lightbulb went off over my head. I had never considered fashion writing, but I had been a fashion junkie since I was old enough to buy my own magazines.

There weren't very many writers at the time who wanted to write "soft" news. So soon after I started writing for CP, The Star called me to freelance for them. Then Flare called me. I was hired full time at Flare, but an opening came here at The Star shortly after. I became fashion writer for The Star in 1988, and fashion editor in 1993.

My career snowballed very quickly because, as I said, there weren't very many writers wanting to do lifestyle writing at the time. That has changed drastically. But I believe there is always room for good people. Bernadette

Summer Fashion Bargains

This week fashion editor Bernadette Morra and stylist Derick Chetty discussed the current summer sales. Have you found a fabulous fashion bargain? Send us your comments by clicking here. Then scroll down to the comment area. Or email nakedlunch@thestar.ca And join us again next Thursday at noon for another Naked Lunch live chat.

Funny how logic flies out the window when you encounter the words - designer, sale, markdown, clearance, outlet, 75 per cent off. The following are mistakes I've made again and again during markdown season. I should have cards printed to remind myself of the following: Don't bother if it doesn't fit perfectly. Why haven't I learned this lesson? Seems pretty logical. But I can't count the times, I've told myself - I will get it altered, I will lose weight, it will magicly fit when I get it home. Hello too-big-and-too-long Costume National coat! I would never buy it at full retail so why buy it on sale. It's amazing how weird designer stuff suddenly becomes an instantly desirable-totally-wearable-must-have-immediately item. Hello Gaultier skirtpant! Gigli elastized bondage boots! I know, I know, just the descriptions alone should have been warning enough. Another card I should print: You already have several of those. The other thing I tend to forget is how many of the exact same thing I already have at home. Hello six pairs of white jeans! Derick

This morning I received an email from Five On Spadina (96 Spadina Ave. near Adelaide) about their current sale and it sounds pretty amazing. They are a small off-price store carrying brands such as Ben Sherman, Penguin, Diesel, Laundry, Citizens of Humanity, BCBG and more. The sale takes an additional 50 per cent off of the already discounted prices. That means these brands are up to 90 per cent off retail. The email says that Five On Spadina has also received a large shipment of Oscar de la Renta, Moschino, Plein Sud, and Ferretti, couture gowns by French fashion houses, silk and cashmere scarves and sweaters, priced at up to 90 per cent off retail. I will definitely be detouring there on my way home today. For those of you who can't, they have a shopping site at www.shoppingaddict.ca/ebay. Bernadette

What can I buy on sale now that will still work in the fall?

A new sense of volume and proportion are major directions for fall. Look for interesting shapes, including bubble skirts, cocoon dresses, and jackets with off-beat, interesting cuts. Skinny pants are another major force, especially worn with tunics. Look for both in year-round fabrics and colours. Black is also a major trend - one wall of New Arrivals at TNT in Hazelton Lanes is almost entirely black, except for some white shirts. Bernadette

I have twice tried to shop Holt Renfrew's Bloor St. store since it went on sale in June, but got so frustrated because the second floor, where the big designer brands are, is such a mess. The store is still under what seems to be a never-ending renovation and every designer seems to have moved from his or her usual spot. It feels like a jumbled mess, even if in reality, it isn't. I can't help feeling that there are some great unearthed bargains somewhere there. But I can't endure the construction-site atmosphere long enough to find them. Now I truly understand the value of good merchandising. Bernadette

I'm excited about a Toronto-based online store I've found recently -- www.stylefly.ca. Check out the great sale prices on dresses by the U.S designer Rachel Pally, whose jersey dresses have been seen on the likes of Jessica Simpson and Sarah Jessica Parker, and knit designer Lily McNeal, whose stuff Angelina Jolie wore in a layout in People magazine's Most Beautiful People issue. Watch for a feature about it in the Saturday shopping section. Daphne

On my way home from work yesterday, I stopped into the new Zola on Avenue Rd. just north of the Four Seasons Hotel. The biggest surprise here is that all the summer shoes aren't on sale. Zola has exclusives on the Emma Hope, Rodolphe Menudier, Cesare Paciotti and Pierre Hardy. The sales girl told me that since no one else in the city carries these labels, they haven't been marked down. But the Sergio Rossi, Patrick Cox and other collections have been reduced by 30 to 50 per cent. I didn't have time to try anything on, but I might go back for the goddess flats by Sergio Rossi. They are the most amazing cerulean blue patent leather. They are half price, from around $600 to $297.50. Bernadette

The Devil Wears Prada

This week, fashion editor Bernadette Morra and stylist Derick Chetty discussed the fashion film The Devil Wears Prada. Seen the movie? Tell us what you thought. And join us again on Thursday at noon for Naked Lunch.

There has been a lot of criticism of the wardrobe in the film. What did you think of the way the characters were styled?

I think most fashion insiders would agree that the clothes worn by the characters working at the fashion magazine were not based on reality. I think it was smart of Patricia Field - the film's costumer - to go for gusto and deck them out in the more dramatic, loud, direct-from-the-runway, logo driven looks. While most magazine editors would opt for quieter labels and attire - they work in an office after all - the cinematic translation would be hugely underwhelming. Can you imagine what the masses - which this film would appeal to -  would think when they see an austere Jil Sander suit? And the poetic beauty of Marni and Rochas would be lost in translation. Derick

I was surprised that Miranda Priestly was styled more like former Vogue editor Grace Mirabella than Anna Wintour. And that Andy's character wore so much Chanel, a favourite label of Wintour's. I found this confusing, even though I think Anne Hathaway looked amazing. Also, Miranda is the villain here, and Andy is the heroine. Does this mean that Chanel is somehow more virtuous than Bill Blass, Giorgio Armani and Valentino, the labels Miranda wore? I would also like to add how much Miranda's jewelry bugged me. Her fussy necklaces and earrings were gaudy, ugly and dated. Bernadette

Are fashion people really as nasty as they are portrayed in the film?

Of course not! What a ridiculous question!!! We are sweet as pie! Ah, just kidding there. In fact that is one of my criticisms about the film. I generally find my colleagues to be very well-mannered and polite. At least to my face. Who knows what they say behind my back. Fashion people can be a catty bunch, though. We might discuss what someone is wearing, but would never insult them directly, as Miranda Priestly and her first assistant do to Andy in the film. Bernadette

I also think that the Canadian fashion press are much nicer than our New York counterparts. It's a very small circle here. But in New York, the stakes are higher, the industry is powerful and is played out on a global scale. And with this, along comes the stress, the bitchiness and need to stay on top. Derick

I agree with Derick, except that I did work for Bonnie Fuller when she was editor of Flare. She is an excellent editor who is drastically lacking in bedside manner. Maybe that's one of the reasons she has done so well in New York. Though I hate to think you have to be nasty to get ahead. Bernadette

I read last week in your Fashion section that Toronto designer Izzy Camilleri had a coat in the film. How does a young designer get their clothes into films?

Izzy hired a PR agency in New York to help expand her business in the US. This particular agency is popular with a lot of the established stylists in New York City and they often borrow clothes for celebrities and photo shoots. Pat Field, the film's costumer, was already familiar with Izzy's work, having borrowed some of her clothes for previous films and television shows. Here in Toronto, you should contact some of the agencies that rep wardrobe stylists and arrange to show them your work for any celebrities they dress or music videos they might be working on. Derick

Toronto Star's Best Dressed List

Roslyn Griffith Hall, stylist wears a vintage Marine's dress jacket, junk deluxe white shirt, Mavi jeans, and Sergio Rossi Leopard boots.

Juno Youn, art gallery owner. See more of our best-dressed list on our Fashion page.

During our last Naked Lunch we discussed the Toronto Star's Best Dressed List 2006  --  the Star's fashion team's picks of the most stylish men and women in the city. Who would be your choice for best dressed Torontonian? To have your say click on the comment link below.

I notice you chose three men in suits for your best-dressed list. What makes one guy in pinstripes better dressed than the next?

Our judges are interested in consistency in a person's style. So Chris Bosh's style habit of regularly showing up to basketball games in a suit was a factor. An immaculately tailored fit helps, too. And adding personal touches is important. George Elian, for example, is an expert at tying ties, and his choice of shirt and tie combos are always current and distinctive. Rudyard Griffiths managed to make casual seersucker fabric look chic. Many men wouldn't have the courage to wear a summer fabric like this, but Griffiths pulls it off with elegance. -- Derick and Daphne

I thoroughly enjoyed your column this morning, Bernadette. I liked that each of the 10 people selected as one of the "10 Best Dressed" had significantly different tastes and styles. I think that Tu Ly's style is truly original. Thanks again for providing such a great copy each Thursday - I always look forward to reading the Fashion pages. -- Cynthia

I consider myself well-dressed and I take pride in my appearance. I wear international designers and I love shopping! How do I make it onto your best-dressed list? What's your criteria?

First off, style has nothing to do with how much you spend on clothes. It's how you wear it. A few people on our best-dressed list this year can attest to this. For example, Rayne Baron and Roslyn Griffith Hall both rock their looks by mixing vintage and new, designer and mass market. Griffith Hall once bought a classic leather blazer at Gap, ripped the lining out, soaked it in water in a crumpled ball, and left it there for several days. When it was dry, it became a cool, deconstructed unique blazer. A perfect example of how best-dressed people put their own stamp on an average item. This kind of ingenuinty impresses our judges. -- Derick and Daphne

Do you really think celebrities belong on your best-dressed list? Don't they usually have a team of stylists who shop for them and decide what they wear every minute of the day?

It's true that most celebs these days have help. But it's often for practical reasons. Celebs can't walk into a store and try on clothes while they're being trailed by papparazzi. But even celebs who work with stylists make fashion errors. A best-dressed celebrity knows exactly what works for her and chooses from among many options provided by a stylist. In Rachel McAdams' case, we felt her choices fitted her body and personality perfectly. You don't look at Rachel and notice what she's wearing; first you notice her grace and poise, then you notice her amazing shoes. -- Derick and Daphne

Tattoo sleeves

DAVID COOPER/TORONTO STAR

Jessica Soos is in the process of extending her ’50s era tattoos into a full sleeve. Derek Lewis of Yonge St. Tattoos is her artist.

Thank you for participating in this week's Naked Lunch; a discussion about the growing prevalence of tattoo sleeves - tattoos that extend from shoulder to wrist. Please read the comments and discussions below and join us June 22 for our next chat.

I sense that the people who are into sleeves are somewhat anti-fashion. But that is exactly where designers look for inspiration and new ideas - to the street and those more "authentic" forms of self-expression. It will be interesting to see how designers interpret sleeves for a broader audience. Although purists will likely hate the idea that sleeves could become commercialized. Bernadette

Jean Paul Gaultier created a tulle shirt printed with tattoo-like drawings a few years ago. And Betsey Johnson had a real tattoo artist do designs for her collection a few seasons back. Who knows what else designers might come up with? Kate

I myself have 22 tattoos and I feel that anyone putting even one tattoo on their body should not do so if they think it looks cool ... Tattooing is a very old art form and it is not a fad. If u cannot see yourself loving the art on your body when you are old and wrinkled then DONT GET ONE!!! I put many different pieces on my body and I will love each and every one until the day I die. Yes there are alot of people who think that tattooing is a fad, but it's the people who have studied the art and who truly enjoy it for what it stands for, that are going to have to educate the ones who know no better. Jen

It seems that this artform will only get more popular with the younger generations coming into their own. There is something very attractive about decorating the body with beautiful artwork. Obviously it takes a lot of consideration to 'think-up' your designs and it would be a shame if someone rushed into the process without really thinking over what they were doing. Tattoos last a lifetime so it's better to take a few months to perfect in your mind what you want to show the world. Mitchell

It's the same as any art- there are good tattoos and there are bad tattoos. There's nothing trendy about getting your entire arm tattooed. I'd say the butterflies, the asian characters and the cherries that people get are a trend, but most people with sleeves put a lot of thought into them and the artists produce amazing works...huh-zah to sleeves! Sean

Are the people who get sleeves addicted to tattooing, much the same way some who try cosmetic surgery get procedure after procedure done, and can't seem to stop? Bernadette

Of the women I spoke to several of them did say they are addicted. Some said they liked the rush that comes with getting a tattoo. At first the needle prick is irritating but when the adrenaline kicks in, it gives a bit of a high that can last an hour before you crash. Other women admired the artists and wanted to acquire a piece of their work. They may see an amazing tattoo on someone else that is nothing like what they have and want to get one by that artist. As one woman said, once you have a couple of tattoos it's just easy to get another one -- no big deal if you see something you like. She had just had one that morning. Kate

Have sleeve tattoos taken over from piercings as the "cutting edge" of self-adornment? Bernadette

Piercings are highly visual. A series in the ear or a piercing in an unconventional place can draw as much attention as a prominent tattoo. They are probably more popular than sleeve tattoos because they cost less and can be removed. Kate

I think for some the whole idea of getting a tattoo is purely out of a follower mentality. You can usually find them with their little hidden tattoos whining at the shop getting it done. However when it comes to a sleeve that is something that everyone I know takes seriously and is more for self expression than what pop culture is doing. Getting a sleeve is expensive and time consuming so to say people are getting them because of a trend I find doubtful. Maybe you see more of them now due to the fact that a lot of the sterotypes that used to come along with tattoos no longer exist and therefore people just feel more comfortable showing off their beautiful artwork!  Jennifer

You might not find small tattoos impressive but everyone has to start somewhere. Many of these girls may be closet hardcore tattoo fans just coming out. The prevalance of sleeves could be encouraging them to take the first step. As you said getting a sleeve is expensive and time consuming. It's a big commitment. Some people like to take baby steps rather than jump in head first. Kate

I don't think that the "trend" will fade.  It has only gotten MORE popular over the years.  As more and more people are getting tattoo'ed its not as taboo so I see it ONLY getting more popular with the younger generation! Meg

And it seems that the nature of the tattoos is changing, too. The art is becoming feminized. Tattoos are getting pretty, and more creative. More appealing to look at, actually. Though I am not thinking of getting one myself! Bernadette

The Future of Fashion Cares

Thank you for visiting this week's Naked Lunch, a chat regarding the future of Fashion Cares. The discussion and remarks appear below. To add your thoughts to the comments list, click on the comment link below. We look forward to connecting again next Thursday at noon!

Lotteries have worked so well for hospital and cancer fundraising. Anybody think of  starting a Fashion Cares, ACT or AIDS fundraising lottery?

And the winner gets a date with Pamela Anderson. Great idea. ACT will have more funds than they know what to do with.

MAC is such a perfect supporter of Fashion Cares because they appreciate people who are "on the edge." If The Bay takes over, I am afraid Fashion Cares will be pressured to become more mainstream. That we will have to tame everything down. Then what's the point?

I would imagine that whoever is involved in deciding the future of Fashion Cares realizes that one of its big draws is the edgy atmosphere. Won't ACT will do their best to fight any attempts to tame it?

Would there be as much media coverage if Fashion Cares became a group of smaller events?

Good point. Perhaps not. There are lots of factors that go into deciding what we cover and how. The sheer size of Fashion Cares, and the stars who attend, practically guarantee good coverage. Smaller, less high profile events with more frequency might not. Bernadette

I agree with the comment below. Where else do you find such a large mass of cool, hip open-minded, accepting people?

I disagree. I think that one of the great things about Fashion Cares is its size. Where else do you get such a great feeling of acceptance in such a large crowd, except at the Gay Pride parade?

Maybe they will raise even more money that way.

Maybe that's what needs to happen, break Fashion Cares up into smaller bits, with more opportunities for title sponsorships. The Bay sponsors the sale, MAC sponsors a concert, who will sponsor the after-hours party?

Is it true that MAC is no longer going to be involved in Fashion Cares?

There is a rumour to that effect, and that The Bay could become the titled sponsor for the event. But that is still just a rumour. Bernadette

What about a huge designer sample sale, like they have in New York?

A concert that big sounds like it would take more organizing that the current Fashion Cares.

Couldn't we turn Fashion Cares into a huge concert fundraiser, like the Rolling Stones did for Sars?

I understand that is one of the ideas that MAC would like to see. Bernadette

Is there any merit in the idea of breaking Fashion Cares up into a series of smaller events? The dinner, after hours party, sale could each be stand-alone events, no?

That is likely something that the committee assessing how to take Fashion Cares into the future is discussing. It would solve the problem of location. Right now, there are only two indoor venues in the city that can hold a crowd of 5,000-plus. One is the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, which has been incredibly supportive of the event. The other is Exhibition Place which is not that different and not worth shunning such a source of support. Or what about dispensing with the dinner portion altogether and just focusing on the party, shopping and show?

Avril's New Look

Thank you for participating in this week's Naked Lunch. We discussed Avril Lavigne's new look and what we might expect from Avril in the future. Please read the discussion and comments and use the comment link below to contribute further. We look forward to next week's Naked Lunch!

Avril hasn't given the runway looks her own twist yet. And there is probably a stylist helping her. Perhaps once she gets rid of the stylist and starts wearing high fashion her own way, we will see more of Avril - the individual - come through in her dress. Derick

AP PHOTO

Avril Lavigne poses in an Armani gown at the 59th International film festival in Cannes.

The point about how Avril's exposure to the fashion and Hollywood establishments will affect her music is a really interesting one. We have very few clues as to what she REALLY thinks about high fashion and Hollywood. She appears to be embracing it. But we still might see her rebellious side emerge. I think that her true opinions will surface in her next album. Bernadette

And what about record sales? You could argue that this new look will be much more appealing on a record album cover than before?

Yes, and she will likely appeal to a much broader market. When she first came on the scene Avril was anti-establishment and stood out from all the other manufactured pop stars. She wore vintage, beat up sneakers and didn't seem to care about grooming. And she looked like a real teen, which is probably why her young fans identified with her, beyond the lyrics in her songs. Is she running the risk of alienating her original fans? Perhaps they are ready to grow up too? But very few will be able to afford the expensive designer clothes Avril is wearing. So if they dressed like her before, what will they wear now? Bernadette & Derick

Someone in today's story on Avril makes a comparison to Madonna, saying that her evolution was much slower than Avril's sudden overnight change. Is this the second coming - of a singer who understands the power of transformation?

In today's pop star arena, talent is just one part of the equation. To keep the fans, to gain new fans, to constantly stay in the spotlight you have to reinvent, provide change, keep them guessing. No one understood this better than Madonna. However, each of her image overhauls have been carefully and slowly orchestrated - not one look today and another 2 weeks from now. Her transformations always coincided with a new album, new project, etc and was heavily splashed around the world. It appears that Avril is embracing her new-found love for high fashion but it remains to be seen how she will play it out. By attending the Chanel couture show earlier this year in Paris, she is slowly building a style conscious profile. And it will be interesting to see how this will reflect in her new album. Derick

One of the comments suggests that Avril should go after the cover of Vogue or InStyle. What do you think?

AP PHOTO

The Canadian actress-musician, promoting the film Over the Hedge in which she voices an animated character, also wore a ruffled blouse.

She was already featured this year in a fashion spread in Harper's Bazaar with her new blond look. And I'm sure if she lands an advertising contract with a major fashion house she will be gracing a few fashion magazine covers. She is certainly prepping for it wearing those major fashion labels. Derick

Do you think that Avril's new look is authentic? Or has she been pushed into playing the role of a Hollywood starlet?

Time will tell. Maybe she will stick with this new look and grow into it. Or maybe she will go back to her old, rebellious self. One clue might be the rocker pose she struck on the steps of the screening hall at Cannes. (See the photo gallery with today's online Fashion section.) As the caption with the photo says, you can take the girl out of the rocker clothes, but you can't take the rocker out of the girl. Bernadette

Here are more comments from readers that arrived over the last week:

Avril looks greatly startling and this new face of style looks wonderful on her. As a trademark of Canada, her slacker style now gone exposes her maturity. Go Avril, get on the cover of In Style! or Vogue...We're behind you! -- Michelle

She's growing up and realizes that youth is fleeting. More importantly, fame is fleeting. You sometimes have to change your appearance in order to stay in front of the cameras. -- Kerry Burrage.

I think it is refreshing and encouraging that this young woman who is a role model for so many young girls has demonstrated such maturity. She has shown us her talent and now she shows her fans that you don't have to be a "bad girl" with "attitude" to succeed and there really is a place for those young stars who really "grow up." -- P.Fisher

Who cares about her new look. She chose her skater-boy look when she was just in her teens and she's a young adult now. Imagine how stupid we would all look if we never made a change to our personal style.

I think that Avril has tremendous style right now, although I do feel that she is trying very hard to fit the mold that she is being asked to conform to…  I’m hoping that Avril has matured instead of conformed to satisfy the public and simply realized that what she was wearing before may have been fine for a girl/teenager but was inappropriate for a young woman trying to fit into mainstream society.  Post-transformation, Avril looks polished and classy. -- Jaymee MacKenzie

As long as see she looks greats, who cares, she can't be 17 forever.

Her new look is horrible.  She used to look like a breath of fresh air, with her own quirky sense of style; then, in poorly chosen Chanel, she looked as though she was wearing her mother's clothes.  Now she looks tart-ish and insecure -- always with an uncomfortable smile, as though she knows she's trying to be something/someone that she isn't, and shouldn't be.

Avril looks great. She's growing up. Do we want her to look like a punk at age 40?- Jim H

She sold out, just like Nelly Furtado. -- Simone

Avril ..... Chubby face, stringy mousey long hair, cover the shoulders & arms, hips too wide, always poor eye makeup choice, spoiled brat attitude, all = Misfit. --
Benni in Waterloo

The new Avril is disappointing. She had such a uniqueness and spark about her and she has definitely lost that with this new look. She now looks like all the other celebrities - boring! Be yourself, Avril. That's what really made you interesting and made you stand out from the others. I'm not even close to being a peer of Avril's but her inimitable qualities attracted me to her and her music. Let's go back to the awesome and the original, real you, Avril. -- dk

As a Canadian, and a proud one, I find it really, really, disconcerting that you would devote the cover of your fashion page to judging Avril's choice of clothes. I find this petty, mean spirited, and distasteful. We celebrate American's who dress in outrageous styles, but never seem able to support our own talent. Wearing wild clothes just goes with the territory of being a star -- why do we need to mercilessly judge them?
-- Dr. Marina Quattrocchi