t time

HOW TO PULL OF THE T-STRAP HEEL

1.  Make your shoe the main piece in your outfit. This means no silly zippers near it or anklets. It's strong enough to work on it's own
   
2. Stick to a simple silhouette with your outfit.
3. Wear your pants low and your dresses high. This is for hemlines, btw. A hem that is too high on a pant will cit off your leg at an awkward proportion. The same goes for a dress with a too low hemline. 
4. Or just ignore the rules and rock them as your own. Send us your pictures!

I'll admit it. I'm a shoeaholic (then again, who isn't?). But my addiction runs so deep that I would drop cash on a six-inch pair of heels before I would spend the same amount on groceries. I wouldn't hesitate to put shoes before a pair of rip-free pair of jeans.

So when I saw Jessica Simpson's Dany heels all over the blogging world, I had to have a pair. I thought of all the ways I would wear them. However, for a hundred bucks, I knew it wasn't happening. Not after all the money I had tossed in New York.

See - look how lovely they are!

For the last month, I have been feeding this addiction. Searching online on my phone while having conversations with people and hiding my computer screen at work for a couple moments to spot the winning pair.

It turns out, all this silly behaviour turned out because I FINALLY found a beautiful pair for 42 dollars at Threadsence.

 

These are clearly my current faves in my collection, until I get my hands on a pair of flatforms....

Justine
 

Neon Summer & Scene Kid Flashbacks

Hi friends! This one will be short because I'm on my way out the door, but I felt like a post from me was far, far overdue.

I was shopping at Zara yesterday, browsing the sale items (the only place I belong anymore, since I'm almost completely broke) and I noticed all their neon pants were on sale.

It's no secret that neon has been a huge trend this summer, and one of my favourites. My usual black attire has begun to blend among my various highlighter pink and green crop tops, bathing suit tops, and belts. Neons are just plain fun, and look lurvely with a tan.

The one thing that I haven't purchased and have been a little unsure about purchasing is a bright pair of pants. I think it's because when I think bright pants, I think about the days I thought I was a scene kid and everyone I knew wore bright purple pants with checkered Vans and band-tees. Oh god, the flashbacks...

But these Zara pants WERE pretty cute. And they were on sale for $20 from $65. I grabbed a pair of green ones, a pair of yellow ones, and a few pairs of jeans in the same style.

They all fit the same, since they were the same pair of pants (HAH), but since I am actually poor I had to spend some time debating the colour that I would get the most use out of. And, in the end, I obviously chose the jeans.

I just can't seem to get on board with buying bright neon pants. Like I said, I'm all for the neons and am currently in the market for a neon bag, but something about the pants... I feel like it's taking it a bit too far. Something about it seems childish to me. But, like I said, that could be because they give me flashbacks of being 15 years old.

What are your thoughts?

Love, Sarah

Style meets sex

I'm sure you've all walked into a sex shop before and had a quick peek at the vibrators and the handcuffs. Those are just small accessories for the bedroom, a lot of people invest in a few toys during their lifetime.

But today I discovered an investment that goes a little further. I thought a normal bed would suffice when it comes to getting it on, but some people apparently think otherwise...

Liberator.com sells items to add a little something to your sex life, while also attempting to be, erm, stylish? Okay, it's sex furniture. Furniture...to have sex on. So when your friends or in-laws come over, make sure you stow it away. Letting someone sit on it would be just awkward.

The pieces come in different shapes and sizes, and you can even order ties for you to lock your partner in. Now these are investment pieces, as some cost upwards of $500.

This bad boy is called "The Zeppelin". Apparently it moves with you as you.... maneuver, twist, turn, whatever. It kind of looks like a glorified bean bag chair to me, but I'll never know unless I lay down about 500 bucks to find out.

This "Black Label Esse" could never disguise itself as any regular piece of furniture. I find the shape to be a bit awkward, but it claims to enhance position possibilities, as well as the big "O". An arch under your back can help to achieve orgasm, but usually a pillow can do the trick.

After some browsing, I think the "Black Label Esse Chaise" looks like a winner. Not too much of a curve, looks pretty sleek and actually looks like it could offer a good stomping ground for nights in.

But my overall conclusion: unnecessary. Unless you have the funds and aren't afraid of someone discovering your "secret playground" (get real though, it's pretty obvious these pieces were made for some sweaty romps), then by all means, go for it.

But I'm going to be honest, a bed is your best option. And that's just on a normal night.

The stylish factor and the orgasm factor of the liberator pieces just don't seem to entice me. Ikea has some rather nice couches that I'm sure many people could vouch for as good "lovemaking zones".

From my standpoint, you would have to be seriously into kink to feel the need to purchase one of these bad boys. Great sex can happen anywhere and on any type of furniture. Hell, the floor can be pretty hot.

Although definitely interesting, it's just not for me.

What are your thoughts on liberator sex furniture?

-M

Photos via liberator.com.

Check out their website for more furniture and toys.

Porn & Dubstep

If you're familiar with "Ode to 2011", you'll love this new video! He who goes under the name "Gray Agent" has added version number two. Similar to the first video, with some extra bits...as well as more "naughty bits".

Porn and dubstep. Two of my favourite things. What more could I ask for? And I love the filming style. So provocative. Hence the website name: graysprovocation.com

Check it out. But be warned, keep the children away.

Ode 2011 Ver2 NSFW from grayagent on Vimeo.

young talent

I know I teased you all about this interview I was doing so long ago, but, finally, here it is!

Graden with her most recent work and some of the fabric she works with.

Alexandra Graden is a talented fashion designer who has yet to enter university. Graden, 18, began her line, Alexandra Lee, in 2010 after showcasing her work at high school fashion shows and making items for her friends. The business is run solely through Facebook and word of mouth - and this seems to be working. Friends tell friends of the clothing, they check out the clothes on Facebook, and if they like what they see, the potential buyer heads up to Graden's home to be fitted and see the merchandise in public. This is how I found, and fell in love with, Graden's designs. The designer, who is stunning (we can't help ourselves!), is currently working on her clothing full-time and plans to attend Ryerson University's fashion design program in September. She has a lot on her plate and is definitely a talent to watch out for. 

Graden recently sat down with Sarah and Justine, where she let loose on where she draws inspiration from, her personal style and her future career aspirations.

Fashgasm: Tell me about Alexandra Lee Designs.

Alexandra Lee - Summer 2011

Alexandra Graden: It started when I was in grade 11 when I took a fashion course at WDHS. I learned how to use a sewing machine and I would take scraps of fabric and I taught myself to sew that way. I would make really simple designs. From there I started a small business. I collected scraps of fabrics from anywhere I could find them like thrift stores. I just started sewing and people started to like what I would wear, so then I started to sell it. I started a Facebook group and it kind of grew and now people are buying my clothes.

Everything is one of a kind. Since the fabric is bought from thrift stores, it’s not like I can go back and buy ten more metres of a fabric I like. Unless I have a little bit extra, everything is just a one-time thing.

F: What are you inspired by when you design?

AG: I’m inspired by bold prints and a lot of colour. I like really simple designs but I like using gorgeous fabrics, really bold, bold fabrics so it balances out. I like going to the city because I’m really inspired by people that I see. Sometimes I’m inspired by what I see on Fashion Television, the prints and colours that people are buying. I’m really inspired by vintage. I like rompers and pantsuits and high-waists and double breasted – all that style.

Beautiful tags/business cards

F: Why did you choose to go to school for fashion?

AG: I chose to go to school for fashion to expand my knowledge of everything. I taught myself pretty much everything I know from books and sewing patterns. I decided to go to school to have a more professional background so I can get a job when I’m older. I need a well-rounded education, not just sewing, but drawing and patternmaking.

F: Will you be continuing your line while you’re at school?

AG: It’s hard to say now because I haven’t done this while going to school. I started this line during a year I took off between high school and university. I’m definitely going to bring some of my things to school with me and see if people are interested down there so I can expand the line. I’m not sure if I’ll have time to actually make new clothes. I’ll definitely start it back up in the summer, between school years. Being in Toronto during the school year will definitely help build a client base.

Clothing from her fall collection

F: You graduate in four years. Have you even thought about your plans that far in advance?

AG: My dream job is to eventually have my own store where I can have a seamstress and put my clothes out there. Right now, I’m thinking that might not be the most realistic option for money and for stability. That’s also why I’ve decided to go to school, to learn about business and to find a stable job. I would also love to work for a clothing company or a designer as an assistant designer. My dream would definitely be to have my own store.

F: Does creating menswear interest you at all?

AG: I don’t know if I ever would get into suits or something similar. I really do like women’s clothing. There’s just so many ways you can go with a woman – you can put her in pants or put a woman in a skirt. It’s not as common to put a man in a skirt. I feel like there’s more freedom with women’s clothing.

Graden's studio

F: Who do you design for when you’re sketching?

AG: Honestly, I’m thinking of myself, like of what I really, really like. I have a lot of different styles so I think that benefits the line because I design a lot of really different things that different types of people would wear.

F: Tell me about the shopping parties you’re planning. How are these going to work?

AG: Every week or every two weeks, I’m going to have groups of people come over to my studio. I’m going to have everything set up, like tables of fabric and clothing on the rack, so the customers can pick the style and fabric they want. Or they can buy straight off the rack. I want to have different groups of girls come every week so it doesn’t get too crazy.

F: Who is your favourite designer?

AG: I really like Christian Dior and Balenciaga. I really like structured and put-together women, and I know it doesn’t really reflect in the clothing I make, but I’m working on developing on that.

F:Who is your style icon?

AG: I really like Audrey Hepburn. And Jackie Kennedy was really badass. She was really put together and classically elegant. Kate Middleton is the same way. All those prominent people, they’re just so put together all the time and everything they wear is really timeless. I love timeless things. They’re modest but they still look sexy.

Clothes from Alexandra Lee 

Recognize this? I fell in love and had to buy it!

Photos in studio by Sarah Ward; Photos of clothing provided by Alexandra Graden.

DIY: porn edition

For those of you who aren't camera shy: you're gonna love it.

There are so many things you can do yourself. DIY's are one of my favourite things to mess around with. However, I am often lazy and usually find myself giving into consumer culture. But when I'm feeling crafty, it's a whole other story.

For you porn fans out there, perhaps you have thought of making your own short and sexy film?

I hear your objections already...

"But Mel! What if it is unleashed into the amateur porn world, and suddenly my ass is featured on pornhub?!"

Oh, don't be silly. Just don't pull a Paris Hilton, and you're good. Also, don't film yourself in night vision. We've all seen the result: a creepy looking raccoon-like creature pouncing on some dude's junk. Not exactly the sexiest...

So, for a successful and sexy night of movie making, the rules are quite simple.

1. Good lighting. Don't be shy, it's not like the whole world is going to see it! (I'll get to that part later)

2. Be playful and fun and flirty. Tease each other and the camera. Don't take it too seriously, and just pretend it's not there!

3. Use a tripod, try different angles if you so desire. Handheld could also be fun when foreplay is happening.

4. The most important rule...after you indulge in watching your very own porno...delete it. YES! DELETE IT! No matter how wonderful, sexy and hot it is, please delete it. Maybe you trust each other, but even so, if someone else gets their dirty paws on that, everyone may get to see your naughty bits. So don't make me stress this anymore than I feel I should.

It's the filming and the watching that is the fun part. Once it's over...you can trash it. And if you so feel the urge to watch yourself have sex, just do it all over again.

If you feel hesitant even going there, you can always look into the many other couples who have done it, and went to the next level by sharing it publicly. I wouldn't encourage anyone to do that. However, I can share one favourite of mine: Chloe Lamb. A lot of my male friends appreciate her homemade videos as well. If you take a look I'm sure you'll understand why.

the one and only, Chloe Lamb

So, what are you gonna do this weekend...?

-M

photos via arrozconpopote.tumblr.com & Facebook

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty at The Met

Justine and I recently returned from a wonderful (and exhausting) trip to New York City. It was a great time, and one of the highlights of the trip-and one of the reasons we were so set on going-was the Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibit at The Met.

I went into the exhibit positive that I was going to love what I saw, and I was right. It was absolutely stunning, and a bit overwhelming at times. McQueen's most epic pieces were displayed in different rooms, all with varying themes. However, for the most part it was all very dark. But, that's McQueen for you. I felt like I was stepping into the mind of a tortured romantic, and at times I seriously thought I was going to cry. SO much passion and heart poured into the most incredible designs.

The one thing Justine and I noted about the works of art (because that's truly what McQueen designs are) was the fact that, when looking at each design, it's very hard to place what year they're from. Until I read the plaques, I would guess a dress was from a 2007 collection when it was from a 1996. It's seriously impressive, the fact that McQueen didn't follow rules in terms of what was "in" for each season. Unless you studied the pieces very hard and noticed that in the more recent years the designs have become more complex/a bit better quality, it's impossible to place the year of their creation.

The strangest and saddest part of the McQueen exhibit was reaching the end ("please don't be over yet!") and coming to his last collection: Plato's Atlantis. Home of the Armadillo Shoe, this collection is stunning, and it's almost hard to look at when you realize he was designing such beautiful pieces so close to the end of his life.

Every collection of McQueen's tells the story of a man who was tormented by his emotions. And although McQueen's work is dark, there is an undertone of romance and passion.

I'm not even exaggerating when I suggest flying to Manhattan just to see this exhibit. The lines and crowds are a bit of a bitch, but it's worth it.

“I want to empower women. I want people to be afraid of the women I dress.” – Alexander McQueen.

Love, Sarah

loose cannons clothing (2)

I'm too lazy right now to think of an interesting blog title name (sorry!). I hope all of our readers remember Kevin and Chris from Loose Cannons Clothing and the post I did wayy back in November. If not, check it out here.

They recently launched their Summer '11 video and I am very much impressed.






They make great t-shirts with interesting messages and are definitely worth your time to check out.

shoedazzle

Maybe I'm late learning about this or have been living under a rock, or whatever, but until yesterday I had never heard of Shoedazzle. Apparently women love this site because you can get shoes for $39.95 a pair. And since everyone's favourite style icon Kim Kardashian helps to choose the site, I could not resist checking it out.

(I really hope you caught the sarcasm there.)

Since I clearly have nothing better to do on a Sunday afternoon than avoid the sun, I spent a little bit of time playing around on this site. I clicked some boxes under pretty shoes and then was told to wait for a little bit until my 'ShoeDazzle Stylists' had my personalized showroom complete.

The wait was definitely not worth it. The shoes looked cheap and like they would fall apart after a couple wears. It hurt me a little, just because I am so in love with shoes and will usually give everything a chance.

These shoes don't do anything for me either.

I guess all in all I'm frustrated with this service and won't be using it. I suppose I can't be expecting stunning shoes for that amount of money, but I was expecting something a little better.

However, I feel there is a a little positive to my test of the site. I really love the look of this pair. They're simple but would spice up a skinny jean in a second!




What do you think of ShoeDazzle? Have you checked it out? Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments or on Facebook.

The great and sexy outdoors.

I'm finally back after a brief hiatus. Canada day kept me busy, followed by a few days in Montreal. I really would have given you something to chew on, but my boyfriend's new place has no internet yet, so we were living like cavemen. But now I'm here so that's all that matters!

I've been enjoying the warm weather, and it's something I often like to talk about. It's quite easy to feel the heat when you're feeling...the heat. Do you follow?

Well the days are hot and sunny and the nights cool off. A little thought came into my head one night while finding my way home. It's dark, the stars are out...why not skip the bedroom and find a nice secluded park to strip down with someone special?

First of all, it's kind of romantic if you find a good spot. Everything is green and in bloom, and the flowers give off a stronger, sweet scent when the night falls.

Second of all, it's pretty exciting to think about whether or not you are about to be caught ass-naked in the grass. And of course, that just makes it that much more fun. You hear the footsteps of those passing by, maybe a cough. You both stop and look up, wide-eyed, wondering if they can see you. Hopefully they don't, so you can just giggle and keep going. And if they do see you...well, you can just giggle and maybe run away? But it's all about the thrill! And I doubt they would step any closer!

Of course, if you're a bit more shy you can also try your very own backyard. It's still outside, and hey, maybe your neighbors will get a sneak peak. But it offers a bit more privacy then a park or beach.

For those of you who enjoy hiking, why not hit the trails, and veer off for a little fun in the forest. Of course, make sure there is no poison ivy where you choose to lay, and maybe bring a blanket to avoid bugs and sticks.

And you know, you don't always have to leave sex til after dark. If you're feeling extra frisky, sex in the great outdoors underneath the sun can also be fun if you're more willing to be caught. Of course, there are always ways to find hidden gems so you can play in peace.
Whatever you choose, be adventurous!

BUT of course, there are limits. So you should try and avoid things like this:

Remember, we want romance, not trash. Other than that, you're good!

-M

*Images via Gawker and Timeout

we've been bad

...bloggers that is. We will be back with much love for you guys tomorrow!