[ Login ]
blog
Gant by Michael Bastian available at Harry Rosen this Fall - Watch the trailer video!
We are excited to be carrying Gant by Michael Basitan at Harry Rosen stores this fall. Michael Bastian has added a younger, lacrosse inspired twist to the classic Gant look.
New Tesla Roadster 2.5 on display at Harry Rosen
Harry Rosen and Eton are pleased to present the exclusive Canadian launch of the all electric Tesla Roadster 2.5
The new Tesla Roadster 2.5 from California has not been seen in person in Canada until now. The car will be on display at Harry Rosen on Bloor on the main floor. It's an incredible all electric car unlike anything else, and sells for around $150,000 to $200,000. Drop by the store Thursday August 19th to Sunday August 22nd to see the Tesla in person. A Tesla representative will be in-store Thursday to Saturday from 1 -4 pm.
Video: Will.i.am appearance at Harry Rosen on Bloor Street
Will.i.am launched his i.am clothing line on July 26 in Toronto, exclusively at Harry Rosen. The musician-slash-designer stopped by the store to attend the launch party and speak with customers, fans and media about his new clothing line. Check out the video of his in-store appearance!
Harry Rosen welcomes will.i.am and his i.am clothing line to Bloor Street!
We are always looking for a reason to celebrate, and the launch of will.i.am's new clothing line, "i.am" is no exception.
Last night we turned the lower level of the Bloor Street store into a party as we welcomed the i.am clothing line. will.i.am made a special appearance, and chatted with media, fans and clients.
In his other job as a music icon, will.i.am has always been known for his unique style and fashion sense, which his clothing line reflects. will.i.am is no stranger to design, having attended the Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandise in LA before focusing on music.
“This line is for the creative cat, the guy that likes art, music and individual expression. Music may be my first love, but fashion has always been important to me and this collection is another way to express my creativity,” will.i.am shared with us at this exclusive Toronto appearance. The collection perfectly complements the attitude of the lower level at our flagship Bloor St. store - casual yet sophisticated with a little edge, and "thoroughly modern", as described by CEO Larry Rosen. The collection is complete with hoodies, leather jackets, sweaters and casual tees.
We had a great time at the event, and thanks to everyone who came out to meet will.i.am! Also, thanks to our sponsors Svedka, Lifford Wine Agency and Kronenbourg beer as well as the team at Manhattan Inc.
From left, Ian Rosen, Graham Rosen, CEO Larry Rosen and Will.i.am
Joshua, left, and Franck, both wearing i.am
Harry Rosen Denim Clinic at The CORE | TD Square
Mike Peters, Regional Director for Western Canada, held a denim clinic at the annual CORE | TD Square fashion show.
Mike answered questions not just from the audience, but from our Facebook page. Highlights from Mike's talk are listed below.
It's true that some jeans aren't meant to be washed for 6 months. Zac from Nudie Jeans was on hand to help explain why. Raw (also known as "dry") denim is dyed with indigo and sold unwashed. When you begin to wear the jeans, the indigo rubs off to customize your jeans to your body. By not washing your jeans for as long as possible, you enhance this customization.
We're beginning to see rolled up jeans again - it's a trend that's quickly taking hold, but in a more sophisticated fashion than we saw in the late 80's and early 90's! Start with a straight or slim jean, and cuff jeans with 2 inch rolls. Rolled jeans look great with desert or chukka boots that will be all the rage in Fall 2010.
Harry Rosen truly does carry a denim to suit every body type and every lifestyle. The best way to find out what kind of denim works for you is to come in and start trying a selection on!
Labels carried by Harry Rosen include: 7 for all Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, Nudie Jeans, Rock and Republic, True Religion, D & G, Armani, BOSS, Zegna and many more! Many are available online, as well as in-store.
Harry Rosen at "Boys Night Out"
Harry Rosen was proud to be the presenting sponsor at Lifford's fourth annual "Boys Night Out", where about 700 people showed up to support prostate cancer research.
Last night, Lifford Wine Agency held their fourth annual "Boys Night Out" event, at the Downtown Toronto Audi dealership. All proceeds from the event went to prostate cancer research, and we were proud to be the presenting sponsor. No surprise here, as Harry himself is highly involved with various types of medical research.
The event was full of things guys like - cars, golf, scotch and of course food and wine. Great music was played by one of our favourite DJs, DJ Lissa Monet. Guests were entertained all evening with raffles, a silent auction and a live auction. The two rounds of golf in Bermuda sounded pretty nice!
We showed five great fall looks and hosted some games. Thanks to all who guessed how many cufflinks were in the jar, and to those who attempted to tie a tie 30 seconds. Congrats to our winners!
Suits from Harry Rosen. From left: Ermenegildo Zegna, BOSS, Etro, Brunello Cucinelli, and Tom Ford.
Adam Martin, one of our buyers, showing our contestants how to properly tie a tie.
Pressure's on!
High flying aerial dancers
Hopefully we saw you there. And if not, see you at the 5th!
Calgary Stampede
For ten days in July, Calgary is overrun by cowboys, both genuine and "urban".
For the fashion-conscious, the Calgary Stampede often poses a dilemma... Luckily, this year, cowboy-inspired looks are right on trend. Harry Rosen carries a wide array of denim labels and cuts to suit both genuine and temporary cowboys. From Nudie to BOSS, Rock & Republic to 7 for all Mankind, Citizens of Humanity and beyond, it's easy to find something for every cowboy! Labels such as BOSS Orange, Robert Graham and Arnold Zimberg provide colourful Western shirts with unmistakable detailing that won't look out of place during the Stampede - or the trendiest Toronto nightclub.
Associates from TD Square showed off some Stampede-worthy looks. On the left, Michael is in Nudie Jeans, with a D&G shirt. Kevin, pictured on the right, is wearing Seven Jeans, with an Arnold Zimberg shirt.
If you're in Calgary for the Stampede, make sure you stop into our store at TD Square | The CORE to update your Western look!
Summer Wedding Wear
Earlier this month we brought a few models down to Rogers Daytime TV for a segment on Wedding wear.
Men have many options these days when it comes to dressing for a wedding - whether they're the groom, or attending a wedding as a guest. We like to encourage men to choose a suit that suits their personality rather than sticking to a standard uniform look that a lot of grooms and guests go for. For a groom that likes a sleek sharp look - try a slim fitting Z-Zegna suit in black instead of a classic tuxedo. If you are getting married on the golf green or somewhere outside - try a lightweight tan suit from BOSS Black. A mid-grey suit is a versatile option for a groom or a guest and can be worn at any type of of ceremony. The details are crucial - cufflinks and a pocket square will ensure a unique look.
Boys Will Be Boys
Have you been to Boys' Night Out before? It's an incredible event in support of prostate cancer research.
If you haven't been to Boys' Night Out, you should join us on Thursday July 8th at Audi Downtown (328 Bayview Ave.) Lifford Wine Agency will host the 4th annual event with Harry Rosen as presenting sponsor.
It's a celebration of guys' stuff cleverly disguised as a sophisticated wine tasting.
The night will feature hot cars, boats, golf, fine wine, steaks, live entertainment, oysters, motorcyles, music, bbq, auctions and much, much more!
To order tickets visit www.LiffordBoysNightOut.com or call 416 440 4101
Congratulations to the winner of our Father's Day Contest!
Richard Hong, of Richmond Hill, shared this touching story with us about his father, to win a $1000 Harry Rosen gift card!
"My memories of Dad are like a rear-view mirror of life lessons and “what ifs?” of events that have come to shape my life as a husband and a good role model for my kids today. When I was young, my Dad and I never really got a chance to bond because of the difficult choices in their life – coming over as an immigrant with a wife and two children at twenty-one to Canada and looking to start a new life, there weren’t many opportunities to be the perfect Dad that many people will write about. After finding the financing to buy a restaurant in Northern Ontario, life became very routine for the next thirty years. Basically the restaurant was open eighteen hours a day and three-hundred and sixty three days a year. I wish I could say that I had a Dad that attended my parent-teachers’ interviews, sat in the bleachers to watch my hockey and basketball games or sat down with me after supper to help me with my homework (or my avoidance of homework). But that didn’t happen. Regardless of the excuses that my Dad had to tell me to ease the pain, I never really understood because everybody else’s Dads were in the stands except for mine.
Now, forty-five years later, my Dad is trying to relive the memories of “what could have been” by playing a part in the grandchildren’s lives as if he was twenty-one all over again. As well, my childhood bitterness has turned to regret; not regretting that they didn’t get to see me grow up but that regretting that I never understood why I never had a Dad in the “kid’s sense”.
With life maturity, comes an understanding of the sacrifices my Dad made to make sure we had enough money to pay the bills and put the boys through university. It’s a new understanding of the excuses my Dad had to make up to explain his absences from our events, to the sadness that I remembered in his eyes when he saw us coming back from the hockey arena with the other dads and kids. If only Dad knew it’s what he never got to do that had just as much impact on the “great Dad” I’ve become– never knowing that he unknowingly taught me tolerance, respect, understanding, patience and the importance of being a major influence in my kids lives today. Dad - It’s not about what you couldn’t do; it’s about what you wanted to do.
Now when I walk down Bay Street, wearing the nice banker’s uniform from Harry’s, I think about how to tackle the day’s problems and work crisis so that I can leave those behind at the end of the day; and become the Dad, my Dad always wanted to be."
A Garden Party hosted by a Dragon
We had the pleasure of attending a garden party hosted by W. Brett Wilson, from CBC's Dragon's Den. Held at Wilson's Mount Royal residence, the party was attended by 800 of his closest friends and associates.
Attendees were entertained by a number of musical guests, including the Canadian Tenors, 9 year old piano prodigy Mackenzie Porter, the talented Carol Welsman and Aion Clarke (pictured below with Ben McLean, associate manager from TD Square).
The purpose of the garden party was to raise funds for Boomer's Legacy. Boomer's Legacy is a foundation named in remembrance of Corporal Andrew James Eykelenboom, a Canadian military medic killed by a suicide bomber in 2006. When Andrew's mother Maureen took the stage to explain the efforts of the foundation, and describe the day she learned of her son's death, the crowd fell silent, and there was hardly a dry eye in sight.
Guests were asked to bring a cheque, and the combined efforts of the guests raised $250 000 for Boomers Legacy. Peter Mackay, Minister of Defense then spoke and led the crowd in a moment of silence for the most recent Canadian losses in Afghanistan.
Giving the evening a uniquely Calgarian flair were the life-size cow sculptures throughout the garden - many properly attired for the Garden Party!
Ermenegildo Zegna Celebrates 100 Years of Excellence
In 1910 an 18-year-old man named Ermenegildo Zegna opened a wool mill in the foothills of the Italian Alps (the quality of the water from the mountains plays a significant role in the luxurious yarns that are produced). When the company was founded the goal was to produce the finest fabrics in the world. One hundred years later the Ermenegildo Zegna company is still producing the finest fabrics, as well as dressing men from head to toe in luxury garments and accessories. To celebrate this incredible milestone, Zegna celebrated with a cocktail party in Milan with 2000 of their closest friends.
Like Harry Rosen, Ermenegildo Zegna is a family owned business - the fourth generation is running the company today. Pictured above is our CEO Larry Rosen with Gildo Zegna, CEO of Ermenegildo Zegna. While trying to snap this shot I nearly got escorted out of the building by security! Never mind that I also had to fight through the real paparazzi! That's how much of a mob scene the celebration was. Attendees included such menswear icons as designers Giorgio Armani and Brunello Cucinelli - both are large buyers of Zegna fabrics for their own luxury collections.
The celebration featured a retrospective of fabrics and clothes, as well as exhibits to explain the intricate processes required in order to arrive at the final products. For example, over "500 hands" contribute to the making of a Zegna suit. Zegna controls the entire process from the selection of the sheep that produce the wool, to the weaving of the fabrics, to the construction of the suit, to the delivery to the customer. Below are some pictures from the exhibition.
A bale of raw cashmer fibre. Most of the world's cashmere comes from inner mongolia where the cashmere goats live at high altitudes, in very cold conditions. The animals grow warm coats of fur to protect themselves against the elements. It is this precious raw fibre that is used to create the most luxurious fabrics. Zegna starts with only the finest raw materials - it is the only way to ensure a superior end product.
This suit is from Zegna's archives. It was made in the 1940s. The wool fabric is a 500-gram weight that is extremely heavy. By comparison, today’s suiting fabrics weigh less than half! The technology today allows Zegna to produce very lightweight fabrics, which results in garments that are extremely comfortable to wear.
These are ski masks from the 1970s - this collection was an early pre-cursor to the collection is known today as Zegna Sport. At the time this fabric was very advanced. Zegna is known for their forward thinking and extensive research which allows them to continually create new and exciting fabrics.
Pictured above are some Zegna Sport jackets from the past several seasons. The Zegna family is very dedicated to environmental issues and they pride themselves on creating fabrics and clothes that are ecologically friendly. For example, they have a fabric called "Ecotene" which is made from recycled water bottles!
Ermenegildo Zegna has an incredible history, yet they are always looking forward to the future. They continue to build on the mission of creating the best fabrics in the world and they extend this world-class approach to all areas of their business. They effortlessly combine elegance and sophistication with a modern, forward-thinking approach to fabrics and clothing. It is this philosophy that keeps the company young and moving quickly into the future.
Happy 100th Birthday Ermenegildo Zegna!
- Shannon
Devon's outfit choice for the MMVAs
Much Music VJ, Devon Soltendieck, stopped by the store a few weeks back to shop for the ultimate suit to rock at the MMVAs.
We outfitted Devon for the MMVA awards show held on June 20. He looked sharp and sophisticated on the red carpet in a BOSS Black ensemble as he interviewed the likes of Drake, Miley Cyrus, Lights and Justin Bieber.
After hanging out with Devon in the store, we got a chance to sit down and asked him some questions about his personal sense of style.
What are you wearing?
For this year’s MMVAs I'll be wearing a light tan suit from Hugo Boss with a white shirt and a fantastic pair of medium brown Tod’s shoes. I've historically worn darker colors since its a formal event but this year wanted to change it up with something that feels a little more in season but can be made to look formal as well.
What is the occasion?
The Occasion is both the Red Carpet for the 2010 MMVA's as well as the shows main broadcast. This years show features Drake, Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, Kesha, Katy Perry and a ton more huge presenters and performers.
What is your favorite piece of this outfit?
I have to say the suit. I'll be able to wear it to a wide range of occasions. Its always hard finding anything off the rack but Harry Rosen has one of the best buying teams in Canada and really are great at picking suits that fit a wide range of body types. Im 6 feet, 165 pounds and have broad shoulders for my waist size so finding a suit on the rack is a potential nightmare. With brands like Hugo Boss and Zegna, I’m covered. Another friend of mine who works in investment banking is the complete opposite body type from me. Rugby player, 5'8 and 185 pounds. The fact that he and I can both shop at the same Harry Rosen store and both get exactly what were looking for is proof positive that men across Canada will as well.
How can you alter this look for another occasion? (I.e. a night out, dinner, etc.)
My step brother is getting married in August and has opted not only for a country wedding but the reception is also going to be held at the family farm.... in the barn. Such an event can present a real sartorial conundrum for a lot of men. A suit like the one I'll be wearing is great for a red carpet with a tie and equally suited for a country wedding if paired with a light blue and white seersucker or gingham shirt. No tie required.
Do you have a favorite designer?
I have a few but what I look for when shopping are brands that offer versatility. A perfect example of which is Ermenegildo Zegna and Zegna Sport. The clothes are masculine, simple and always look fantastic whether you're going to work at the office, heading to a black tie event or heading up north for the weekend.
Where do you get your style inspiration from or who is your style inspiration?
I've become a lot more conservative with the way I dress over the past couple of years, which I see as a positive. When I first started at MuchMusic there were a ton of stylists shooting clothes my way and I felt like I had to dress like some of my favorite bands, despite the fact that I was fairly preppy growing up. I think I’ve gone back to that and I feel a lot more comfortable as a result. I don't have a style inspiration to be honest but I’ve always thought Tom Brady has surprisingly great style. So does Morley Safer from 60 Minutes which is equally surprisingly.
When did you buy your first suit, and what was the occasion?
I'll never forget my first suit. My dad took me to Chabonelle Street in Montreal which is where a lot of wholesalers have their clothing. It was a double-breasted navy suit which I needed for my first communion. No idea why I got a double breasted suit at 8 or 9 years old.... I suspect he picked it for me.
What is your favorite city to travel to, and why?
Without a doubt, my favorite place to travel is Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. My family has a home down there on the beach and I go every moment I get. I’ve been to much more beautiful places, I’ve lived abroad and have been lucky enough to travel to a lot of different cities and countries before I hit 25. That said, I’m happiest taking the dog down to the beach at 7am and going to the Crab Shack or Bone-fish for dinner before calling it an early night.
What is your favorite accessory you never leave home without?
I recently bought a TUMI bag from the Bloor street store and I’ve got to say its probably one of the most functional accessories I have. Its perfect for a last minute weekend trip or just to go play tennis before work. I can fit three changes of clothes, two pairs of shoes and not have to check it under the plane, or I can fit my racquet, clothes for the day and a pair of shoes so I can quickly shower before work after an early morning game.
What one piece of style advice to you live by?
Trends are a killer. Chances are, the best-dressed man in your family is either your dad or grandfather. There's a reason for that.
Levi Strauss & Co, - a Company with it's Roots firmly planted in History
Earlier this week at Pitti Uomo we took a look at Made in the USA by Levi's Vintage Clothing.
This Fall 2010 we are launching two collections from Levis' Premium division: Levis Made & Crafted, and LVC (Levis Vintage Clothing). Both of these collections have exclusive distribution in high-end boutiques and department stores throughout the world. Both collections take inspiration from authentic Levi's jeans. Levi's is widely known as the first makers of jeans in North America. There is no other denim brand in the world more iconic or more authentic than Levi's and the rich history of the brand is woven into both these new labels. For next Spring, Levis has further developed the Levi's Vintage division and has produced a capsule collection of reproductions of iconic American workwear. Some of the same machines that were used to produce the denim fabric over 100 years ago are still being used today. In fact, some of the irregularities in the denim fabric were due to the uneven floorboards in the factory producing the fabric (the machines would shake as they were running). Levi's has gone to the extent of reproducing those irregularities in some of the denim they are producing today, in order to create an authentic and very special product.
The jean above is a replica of the original Levi's 501 style. It's called "Barnyard" as the inspiration for the jean was an original pair of jeans from 1890 that was recently found in an abandoned barn in California!
This jean is called "Spurbites". It was inspired by a jean originally made in the late 1890s. It was worn by a cowboy whose spurs damaged the leg opening. As well, the original pair had been patched by hand with cloth from a second pair of jeans of the same fabric.
Some of the other items featured within the capsule collection, including denim jackets and classic white tees.
- Shannon
Milan Runway Shows Start off on a High Note
None other than the incomparable Annie Lennox provided a live soundtrack for the Dolce & Gabanna Spring 2011 men's runway show.
When the black velvet curtains parted on the runway, Annie was sitting at a grand piano in a dramatic black silk gown. With her signature short, ultra-blonde haircut, she was an unexpected and delightful sight on the runway. She proceeded to perform several of her well-known hits while the male models strutted down the catwalk. I must admit it was difficult to take my eyes off Annie while she performed her beautiful music. Her strong, commanding voice and presence provided the backdrop for an equally strong collection from the formidable design team of Dolce & Gabbana.
The collection featured light, natural fabrications such as linen sweaters, flowing drawstring pants, and intricately woven latticework leather jackets. There were blazers so light they were almost transparent – more like a shirt than a jacket. It was casual dressing paired down to simple silhouettes and easy fabrications.
When it came to formal dress, Dolce & Gabbana stayed true to their signature look of a lean, dark suit, crisp white shirt, and narrow black tie. The show finale featured at least 50 models walking the runway in various versions of this uniform. At the end of the show the models gathered around the grand piano and the true star of the show, Annie Lennox.
Dolce & Gabbana are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their collection and they have certainly made it a memorable season for myself and the rest of the buyers and press from around the world who were lucky enough to attend this show.
- Shannon
Harry Rosen Fall Trends 2010 Preview Event
Can't wait to see what will be in stores this fall? We recently previewed Fall/Winter 2010 trends, so be the first to find out!
Though it looks like spring outside, our favourite designers have all been hard at work on their cold-weather collections. To showcase what's in store for fall, we invited media to two preview events - in Toronto at our head office and in Calgary at Hotel Le Germain.
Business and casual looks were presented, showing off lots of new exciting trends, as well as updated classics. In stores this fall, expect to see many different versions of the grey suit, a continuation of the Ivy-league prep look, elegant winter wear, and rugged ways to stay warm in the cold Canadian months.
The grey suit continues to be a staple in every man’s closet. In stores this fall, you will see lean-cut silhouettes with wide-spread collars. Gray suits will be best paired with a crisp white shirt, and slim tie. The grey on grey pinstriped J.P. Tilford by Samuelsohn suit was also featured at the Fall Trends Preview.
Casual looks are practical this fall. They are rugged and durable, with a modern, urban feel. To perfect this look, try layering with different fabrics, textures and patterns. Thick sweaters over button down shirts go great with distressed jeans or cargos. Nudie Jeans, PRPS, and Boss Orange are just some of the casual denim lines you’ll see this fall. Michael Kors’ khaki cargos are also a great fit for this look. Try topping this off with an army green Canada Goose parka and Donald J. Pliner Army boots.
The Ivy League sporty prep look is still prominent this fall. This sporty look is comfortable and sophisticated. Dark, crisp denim, checkered button down shirts and a pea coat will be essentials. The Fred Perry heavy gage knit sweater, and the new line of Converse by John Varvatos are key items to this look.
Winter elegance is an essential look this fall, for all occasions. This look can be perfected by pairing a great sport jacket with slim fitting pants, and accessorized with a scarf. The Boss Black velvet eggplant jacket was a showstopper at the Fall Preview, and was shown with a black and white check shirt, gray pants and a bowtie.
New designers available this fall include Levi’s Made & Crafted, Napapijri, Stone Island, Gant by Michael Bastian and Converse shoes by John Varvatos.
Pitti Uomo Celebrations
During our time in Florence we had the honour of attending two celebrations - a dinner presented by Brunello Cucinelli, and a cocktail party at the Four Seasons Hotel thrown by jewelry designer Robert Tateossian.
Each season Brunello Cucinelli throws a party at a palazzo in the Tuscan hills just outside of Florence to celebrate the new collection. Pictured above are Brunello on the left and Jeff Farbstein, VP of Merchandise for Harry Rosen, on the right. There was much to celebrate as once again Brunello has created a collection of clothes that at the same time presents a new, exciting twist on luxury sportswear, as well as staying true to his philosophies. Brunello's clothes represent a way of life. He is extremely passionate about life and he has somehow managed to find a way to inject that passion into every garment that is crafted. Pictured below are some of the looks Brunello has created for Spring 2011.
The models in this picture are both wearing similar coffee-coloured cotton and linen jackets, simply paired back to white shirts and solid grey ties. A white linen pocket square edged in grey perfectly accents the outifts. What makes these looks really interesting are the trousers - the gentleman on the left is wearing a dark grey cotton cargo pant, while the second outfit is paired with a slightly distressed denim jean (and not just any denim, mind you, but the finest Japanese denim on the market). Both of these looks manage to be both sophisticated and incredibly youthful at the same time. Not an easy feat to acheive. That is the essence of Brunello's incredible talent and spirit.
**********************************************************************************
The second evening we attended was a cocktail party at the Four Seasons Hotel in Florence. The youthful and incredibly talented Robert Tateossian celebrated the 20th anniversary of the company he founded and built. Robert's jewelry designs combine beauty, wit, and humour - his cufflink designs feature everything from working clocks, tiny globes that spin on their axis, to whimsical creatures such as iguanas and scarab beetles. Pictured below from L to R are Larry Rosen, CEO, myself - Shannon Stewart, and Robert Tateossian.
We will spend one more day at the Pitti Uomo show here in Florence and then we are headed to Milan where we will be visiting showrooms and taking in a few runway shows.
- Shannon
First day of Pitti Uomo - Florence, Italy
Today was our first day at the Pitti Uomo menswear show in Florence, Italy. Taking place twice a year, Pitti Uomo attracts over 30,000 visitors from around the world. The show is an incredible source of inspiration for our buying team and over the course of 2 to 3 days we are able to extract some of the key trends we will present in the stores for Spring 2011.
From the first day we've observed a light, fresh approach to summer dressing which sees everyone heading to the beach! Cottage life, surfing, fishing, and "permanent vacation" were common themes presented throughout the show.
There is a strong trend towards washed sport shirts which feel as though they have been freshly laundered and hung to dry in the sunshine. Sport jackets are incredibly light and relaxed - almost more like cardigan sweaters rather than structured jackets. The pant of choice is either a classic khaki trouser in a modern fit, or a slightly faded jean in a light weight denim. Many collections are also featuring shorts in a variety of patterns such as checks and stripes, as well as a variety of styles - from tailored and preppy to washed cotton cargos. In terms of colours, staples of white and navy are punctuated by shades of green from emerald to aqua and the "pop" colour of the season appears to be red. But not a bright red, a washed down red which has a bit of a pink hue and is extremely wearable.
We are looking forward to a couple more days at the Pitti show and then it is off to Milan for the second part of our trip.
- Shannon
More Harry Magazine Shooting in Alberta
After the sophistication of Calgary and a rainy day spent at a ranch outside of town, we spent the last part of the Harry Magazine shoot at Lake Louise in Banff National Park.
We spent one morning at Moraine Lake – a beautifu blue/green glacial lake with purple rocks (not sure what it was called, but a geologist would!). It was so incredibly beautiful, we didn’t even need any models! Alhough our models were a hit with all the tourists that day!
Back to the stunning views from the Fairmont Hotel where we stayed. We fell in love with Sonny the dog. Originally trained as a seeing eye dog, Sonny had a 'career' change. Today he greets guests at the Fairmont Hotel at Lake Louise and is available for walks. Did you know that the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind provide over 625 guide dogs over the course of the year (for free to people who qualify) but it costs $35,000 to train just one. Good dog Sonny, good dog!
Up Close and Personal with F1 Driver Jenson Button
The men of Hugo Boss looking dapper as always - David Schuettenkopf and Stephen Epstein.
We met Formula One driver Jenson Button at the Hugo Boss event this week!
We were up close and personal with world famous Formula One driver Jenson Button this week at the Hugo Boss event! Jenson paid a visit to the Hugo Boss store on Bloor street before heading to Montreal for the much anticipated F1 event this weekend. It was a great event filled with fashionable F1 enthusiasts, and even a handful of kids who waited patiently to get an autograph and picture with Jenson. Our Montreal counterparts have told us the city is buzzing with excitement. Harry Rosen will be participating in the Peel Paddock events today and tomorrow with a fashion show on Peel street. Good Luck team McLaren Mercedes!
Glitz and Glamour in Vancouver
The 2010 Leo Awards were held at Vancouver's Westin Bayshore this past Saturday, and attracted a star-studded crowd including Lou Diamond Phillips. Although we're not sure who Lou Diamond Philips was wearing, Walter Daroshin, producer of the Leo Awards and long time Harry Rosen customer (also pictured) wore a Canali tuxedo with an Armani tie.
The Leo Awards honour the best in Vancouver's television and motion picture industry. According to reports, this was the best Leo Awards yet - the Bayshore's ballroom was packed with a glitzy crowd. This was definitely the place to be seen, and it's sure that buzz from the event will carry through to next year!
We are proud to congratulate Monique Prudhomme and Christina McQuarrie - both winners in their respective categories as well as Harry Rosen clients! Monique Prudhomme won the award for Best Movie Costuming for "The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus", and Christina McQuarrie won Best TV Show Costuming for "Sanctuary".
Vancouver is still very much "Hollywood North" - as the thrid largest producer of motion picture and television entertainment (after LA and New York) over $1 billion is spend in B.C. each year.
Locally produced TV includes Smallville, Fringe, and Stargate. Currently shooting in the Vancouver area is the movie The Big Year, starring Owen Wilson, Jack Black and Steve Martin.
Meet Shannon Stewart, senior member of our Buying team
Shannon is our Merchandise Manager of Sportswear. Don't let her youthful looks fool you - she has been with Harry Rosen for 15 years and her opinion carries a great deal of weight within our organization and with our vendors. Her knowledge of fashion and instincts on what Canadian men will love and want to buy each season are always on target.
Along with Larry Rosen, CEO and Jeff Farbstein, VP of Merchandise, Shannon makes a regular bi-annual trip to Italy to see the famous men's show Pitti Uomo in Florence as well as the designer shows in Milan, from Ermenegildo Zegna to Dolce and Gabbana. During this trip our buying team identifies trends and makes decisions on what clothes you will see in our stores for Spring 2011. We have asked Shannon to give us a glimpse into the exciting world of mens fashion from the designer showrooms and runways and we look forward to her insights over the next few weeks. Stay tuned for a sneak peak on what's to come.
Shooting Harry Magazine for Fall 2010 at Calgary's Le Germain Hotel
This week we are at the fabulous new Le Germain Hotel in Calgary, shooting part of the fall Harry Magazine with Chris Nicholls, photographer extraordinaire, direct from Toronto. Alex La Monaca, Axel Hermann, and Matt Loewen are the models on set. Alex is a native Calgarian and chatterbox. Matt is originally a Vancouverite and is more subdued.
The Hotel was designed by Lemay Michaud, one of the largest architectural firms in Quebec known for quality projects and interior design. Calgary hospitality abounds. Petroleum conference in town and city is awash with 60,000 in the industry. Yesterday we had a light lunch of burgers, goat/beet salad and phenomenal asparagus soup - made especially for our vegetarian groomer, Laura Szucs, at Char cut, Le Germain's 'roast house'.
Stand by for more notes from the shoot and a few shots of the guys too...
The Transformation of Bloor Street
If you've been anywhere near Tornto's Bloor Street lately, you'll know all about the construction that has been going on for the past two years (has it really only been two, it seems like longer). The beautification project - jointly undertaken by the Bloor-Yorkville BIA and the City of Toronto - started in the summer of 2008 and is slated to finish at the end of 2010. And while we are sure that the end result will be well worth it, with its wider granite sidewalks, eco-friendly landscaping and lighting and a pedestrian-friendly world-class 'fashion mile', living through the noise, dust and traffic nightmares for all this time has been a challenge to all the retailers, shoppers and residents in the area.
And now, it's our turn. The construction, which has been done in stages, has landed right in front of our store at 82 Bloor Street and will likely be there through until the end of the summer. But have no fear, we are open for business as usual and luckily we have our Bellair Street entrance to help ease congestion. So in our own cheeky way, we wanted to pay homage to the seemingly never-ending roadwork via our Bloor Street posters.
Now, bring on the G20…
Devon Soltendieck goes shopping...
Devon Soltendieck, MuchMusic VJ gets ready for the MMVAs at Harry Rosen Bloor Street.
This week we had the pleasure of meeting with MuchMusic VJ, CP24 Co- Host and all-around nice guy Devon Soltendieck as he was shopping around for his MMVA outfit. While one of our senior buyers Ed Liston showed Devon a ton of great options, we tried to get Devon to share the surprise guests for this years awards show. He wouldn't dish on anything that we don't already know - Miley Cyrus is co-hosting and the likes of Justin Beiber and Drake are sure to turn Queen Sreet West into a madhouse of screaming teenaged girls.Guess we'll all just have to tune in on June 20th to see who else shows up - and to see which outfit Devon picks...