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fashion

Happy New Year

One of my favourite sessions at CM1, Toronto’s first conference for community managers, was led by Ryan Ginsberg from Twitter Canada. His talk focused on how social content strategists can plan ahead for and respond to big moments. This includes holidays and unexpected pop culture spectacles like Miley Cyrus twerking at the VMAs.

Last year, I wrote about how Oreo mastered social media when they were quick to post about the Super Bowl blackout. Oreo’s Super Bowl post was brilliant because their team quickly produced an image with a few words that effectively made millions crave Oreo cookies.

Likeable branded content is simple. Even though digital teams can plan for holidays like New Year’s Eve months in advance, I think a minimalistic execution is optimal. Essentially all you need to do is be engaging and say something to the effect of “Happy Holidays!” with copy and visuals that are aligned with the brand. When businesses create holiday greetings with too many CTAs, they risk appearing obnoxious, as ADP Canada’s Elizabeth Williams observes.

3 brands that understand the power of brevity when celebrating the holidays are Sharpie, Ben and Jerry’s and Holt Renfrew. Look at their Instagram posts to see what I mean:

Sharpie

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January 1, 2014 by

Stock Up On Basics At American Apparel

If you’re looking for discounts on the basics, then you’ll want to check out American Apparel’s Warehouse Sale in Toronto’s Chinatown. American Apparel has embraced the opportunity to run a pop-up store during the holiday season, when wish lists tend to be long, while budgets are tight.

Before you head over to their temporary outlet, visit your nearest American Apparel store to try on t-shirts, pants and sweaters so you’ll know your size. There are no fitting rooms available and I don’t think you want to be that person awkwardly changing clothes in the basement.

AA Jeans

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December 3, 2013 by

Let’s Look For A Watch

Throughout high school, I worse a reversible red/navy leather Tommy Hilfiger watch. It was skinny and lightweight—the kind of watch that you forget is on your wrist. Eventually it wore out and I switched to a silver metallic watch, but after a few months, the silver started rubbing off. You know it’s time to stop wearing a watch when the band has nearly fifty shades of grey, but started out with only one.

Apparently I’m kind of picky when it comes to selecting a timepiece. I wanted a silver or stainless steel watch with a leather strap and markings for all 12 hours, without Roman numerals or crystals. Unfortunately rose gold has become all the rage, leaving less room in the display cases for watches I like.

During my trip to New York, I fell in love with Kate Spade’s Metro watch. I left it in the store because I didn’t want to impulsively buy something I would change my mind about later, but I thought about it for the next six months. Lord & Taylor wouldn’t ship it to Canada, so I brainstormed ways to import it.

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November 20, 2013 by

Walk, Sleep & Travel in Cole + Parker Socks

cole-parker-socks

Let’s talk about one of the most underrated wardrobe staples: socks. Whether you choose to wear motorcycle boots or suede oxfords this fall, I recommend adding some kick-ass socks underneath!

For colourful options, look no further than Cole + Parker’s collection. Inspired by TOMS shoes, Cole + Parker’s co-founders designed a “One to Many” business model. 20% of sock sales are loaned to entrepreneurs through Kiva, a non-profit micro-financing organization.

The way I see it, Cole + Parker socks let you protect your pedicure while supporting a good cause. The socks are also a great stocking stuffer for anyone who loves to roll up their cuffs and express their vibrant personality.

Plus, it’s scientifically proven that dressing warmly and putting on socks at night can help you fall asleep. According to Men’s Health, “having cold feet…upsets the natural release of melatonin, a hormone related to a proper sleep-wake cycle.”

Cole + Parker’s clever style names target Gen Y and their team sent me the perfect pair for a digital marketer: hashtag socks! The brand’s official hashtag is #sockgame, as seen on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, where they often post photos of business casual attire. Talk about a relaxed work environment…

The company’s biggest recent news is that Holt Renfrew is selling their socks now! Alternatively, you can find Cole + Parker at Tom’s Place in Toronto or browse their online store.

November 4, 2013 by

Fashion Blogger By Day, Author At Night

 

Man Repeller final

Hot On The Street & Man Repeller

Leandra Medine and I have a few things in common: we’re both brunettes with blogs who love New York. We also celebrate the same holidays, but that’s an inside joke between us.

On Thursday afternoon, I went downtown for a meeting (read: interview) and then created a workspace at Aroma. Meanwhile, Leandra appeared on The Social and chatted with fashion journalists about her new book, Man Repeller: Seeking Love. Finding Overalls.

Eventually my battery drained and instead of finding a new seat with an outlet, I dashed to Holt Renfrew. As for my outfit of the day, my Michael Kors trenchcoat protected me from the rain and helped me look polished and colourful. Have I mentioned that sometimes you can spot me as the girl in the red trenchcoat?

Anyway, FASHION’s online editor Randi Bergman interviewed Leandra and then the book signing began. I was grateful for a fast moving line that still allowed for ample face time with the author. While she wrote a personalized autograph with a gold Sharpie, we talked about Instagram and The Coveteur. It was just another conversation about social media and style. No big deal.

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October 21, 2013 by