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l yl e x ox : h ead of desi gn l aurence & ch i co paol o f azi ol i bl oodl ess bul l f i gh t j enni f er zh ang: ch anel bev erl y w i l sh i re bev erl y h i l l s l adurĂŠe cameron si l v er: decades f or ch i l dren w e care gal a rev eal : gal a publ i sh ers message
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i nf orm i nteri ors, 50 w ater street
LYLE XOX: HEAD OF DESI GN RI ZZOLI USA BOOK LAUNCH
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he world is entranced with Vancouver-based Lyle Reimer and his alternate personality @LyleXOX. The internationally acclaimed multimedia self-portrait artist?with 150K+ Instagram followers?is fresh off collaborations with iconic brands Moschino, Gucci, and Victor and Rolf , when we found him holding court at Gastown?s Inform Interiors.
The room is full as the much-anticipated launch of Lyle XOX: Head of Design, published by Rizzoli International, gets underway. Impeccably dressed, in what could be best described as ?Playful Pilgrim,?Reimer is discussing his beginnings with the city?s finest creatives. His first mirror selfie photo was taken in 2013 and scrolling through his IG grid, since then, shows his creative genius is not waning. The hardcover book is a one-of-a-kind tome that captures Reimer?s work as he breaks the boundaries of beauty and embraces self-expression while celebrating individual style. The contrast between @LyleXOX and IRL Reimer is that the latter is slightly self-conscious but handles himself well?with aplomb and wonderful wit. The question of inspiration inevitably is asked to which Reimer replies that he believes that inspiration is best found 'serendipitously' in the world as it passes by.
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He shares with the audience how he was recently flummoxed by a discussion with an art teacher?who was allowing students to use their phones?to find inspiration while working in art class. For Lyle, creativity comes from everywhere you most expect it not to be, and this is something that the upcoming generation of creators, artists, and changemakers should consider. ?If you are looking for your inspiration, put your phone down. Get out into the world,? Reimer shared. ?I appreciate makeup artists, but I?m not inspired by makeup artists.? Once, on a walk across the historic Burrard Street bridge, he noticed a wheel had fallen off a passerby?s suitcase. ?That?s a cool shape,? he thought, ?that?s coming to the studio with me.? Lyle?s form of art is twofold. He posts self-portraits of elaborate, jarring and seemingly gravity-defying makeup designs featuring upcycled and found objects. These photos are paired with the eclectic stories of the personality he has created with the objects. Each character and story is unique and unexpected, and they are primed to leave the reader in awe of the artist?s duality of talent.
His creative inclinations were first realized when growing up in Wymark, SK, a place small enough to be designated as a hamlet instead of a town. The casual observer might assume that his work is a reaction to a conservative prairie upbringing, but this couldn?t be further from the truth. He has stated in past interviews that he was always able to find support at home, especially from artists in his family. His mother had an affinity for used recyclables and his aunt was trained in make-up. EDUCATION IN THE CITY After moving to Vancouver, Reimer pursued a makeup program at the Blanche Macdonald Centre and found work for MAC Cosmetics, where he worked as a trainer for their coveted Artistry and Development team before leaving to pursue his interests full time. His online fandom (which includes luxury fashion houses), has become so devoted that they now serve the purpose of creative curation, sending him bits of inspiration in the form of garbage (J eremy Scott sent 45 lbs of studio refuse), handbags (Gucci, Balenciaga), metal hearts from Mexico City, and a used retainer from a childhood friend?s daughter. Nothing is too opulent, sacred, unconventional or unusable for Reimer.
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The past year has been full of firsts for Reimer. Lyle XOX: Head of Design was designed as a collaboration with renowned art director Fabien Baron. His works were featured in such international publications as the New York Times, Vogue Italia, British Vogue, and GQ China. Last March, he fulfilled a lifelong dream when famed luxury New York City retailer Bergdorf Goodman featured storefront windows dedicated to his work. AN INVITATION TO COLLABORATE Invited to collaborate with Victor and Rolf at their Amsterdam atelier, Reimer remembers being astonished when they asked him what to wear for their shoot. ?I remember them coming to the studio space in their jeans and t-shirts and saying, ?Well, Lyle, what would you like us to wear??And I just said, ?I?m going to tell you what to wear??? This shoot was a personal favourite of his, and a particularly treasured photograph is the first image page of his first?but not last?book.
As a tastemaker for fashion?s most influential, it seems that the sky is the limit for Reimer, who remains on the west coast in his cozy studio in trendy Kitsilano and is intent on finding new opportunities for collaborations. However, he is still driven by the same principles. Inspiration will always come in unexpected places, and as much as the world?s most acclaimed designers knock on his door, we are sure to find him where he truly feels at home: in front of the camera, adorned with the objects that others have left behind?there to tell a story that is seeking exposure. Visit Rizzoli USA to Order Lyle XOX: Head of Design
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LAURENCE & CHI CO LOVE & A LEGACY OF LARGESSE
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o many, the Laurence & Chico Caf ĂŠ off Robson Street was their first invitation into the insane world that Laurence Li and Chico Wang created for themselves. Rubber ducks proliferate and oogly octopus tentacles abound, mop-top stools beckon, grotesque eyeballs roll, and exaggerated mannequins with giant wigs oversee all. The space is so fantastic that the simple act of opening of this tea and dessert shop was covered in Vogue Italia!
Along the journey, their studies fell by the wayside. Although Chico was a Fashion Design major and had enviably worked at Givenchy, Miu Miu, and McQueen, and Laurence majored in Fashion Marketing and worked in Barney?s Buying Department, the world was beckoning, and the two veered off onto a creative tangent. This proved a detour that jump-started the Laurence & Chico label and has allowed them to pull ahead of their peers.
To celebrities like Cardi B, Bjork, the Clermont Twins, Lady Gaga, and the Man Repeller herself, Leandra Medine, the married couple behind the label are all about fashion. Outrageous, over-the-top, grandiose, and yet beautifully elegant and sophisticated when styled with deft restraint.
Laurence and Chico?s creative process is unique in that illustrator Laurence begins by drawing surreal kaleidoscopic images that reflect the world around him. Each of these drawings contributes a first step to a visual journey filled with playful symbolism. Chico then takes the reins and brings the sketches and palettes to life as garments buoyed by cartoonish enthusiasm.
MODERN TWIST ON TRADITIONAL LOVE The spark that created the Laurence & Chico brand began in New York City at a market stall in artsy Soho. Two young Vancouverites were studying at the Parsons School of Design; Laurence skilled in illustration and Chico drawn to fashion. While a dating app may have pulled them together, it was a confluence of talents that tied them together. Collaboration on illustrative postcards turned into a run of branded t-shirts, and soon the two students had a desire to create, not only a life but a design business together. The latter proving to be a visual wonderland?an exciting mĂŠlange of textures and patterns?that is other-worldly and wow-inspiring in an industry set on recycling and deft appropriation.
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HOMETOWN DEBUT Yaletown?s Leisure Center and Kokko in Richmond were the first to showcase and sell Laurence & Chico. The owners of both, Mason Wu and MuYun Li, were early patrons of the designers and agreed to stock their first pieces before the duo had even formally registered their brand and presenting the trunk show was a natural extension of the relationship. Leisure Center began with a trunk show of 150 mind-blowing ready-to-wear pieces, 20 pieces of insane accessories, as well as various pieces of furniture in a 3-day hometown dĂŠbut. The collection presented was a robust and vivid evolution from Laurence & Chico?s early designs
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The evening attendees were agog as the minimalist space turned into a maximalist fantasy featuring looks with layers upon layers of flamboyant ruffles, bulging quilted checks, shredded tweed, oversized droopy velvet bows, plush faux-fur, all corralled with rope after rope of pearls. While the styling would have been considered heavy-handed on any other collection?tiny hats perched upon reach-the-sky wigs which enveloped faces painted with vibrant animalian eye make-up and pasted-on pearls?seemed oddly balanced and completely natural. Laurence and Chico are visionaries who see their designs extending far beyond apparel. In 2015, they had a vision of morphing into a ?lifestyle brand,? which included opening a series of cafĂŠs where those who admire and covet their couture have the opportunity to buy a t-shirt, a coffee, and other knick-knacks with signature eye-catching packaging. This vision was realized in 2018 and the following year; the cafĂŠ was nominated in the Best Restroom in Canada contest sponsored by Cintas. THE COLLECTIONS Their first show was in New York in 2015, and it explored themes of flight, make-up, sea creatures, and pets. Each brought to life with bold, vibrant accoutrements such as gigantic coloured wigs, exaggerated make-up, super-sized silhouettes, rows of ruffles, reams of pearls, glitter, and big bows. Laurence & Chico?s 2018 collection explores the relationship between people and their pets, addressing that oft-blurred line that exists within the ?companion animal?dynamic.
No doubt inspired by their two French Bulldogs, Pearl and Button, the dresses and headpieces were adorned with their signature over-abundance of pearls and ruffles, faux fur, as well as embellished with statements of ?GROOM ME,? ?WALK ME,? and ?PET ME.? With painstaking attention to detail, each completed look is layered into a silhouette that portrays a fantastical impression of the most over-indulged and pampered pooch. Fast forward to the 2019 and 2020 collections, and the Laurence & Chico runway shows at Paris and New York Fashion Weeks are well-attended and excitedly received. The looks are more approachable than the earlier collections, with their ruffled denim, pearls, and tweed fabrics aligned with style and textures of the historic luxury houses of Chanel and Balenciaga. WWD stated ?Backstage before the show, Li attributed the season?s thread of heightened wearability to a desire to open a brick-and-mortar store in the future.? In a recent conversation with us, Laurence shared that the brand has indeed expanded to wholesale distribution in China and will be adding online retail in both China and North America. NESTING WORLDWIDE The couple live and travel between Vancouver, Shenzhen, and New York and with the expansion of their brand into China, they can forget about vacations, and, likely, Vancouverites will not see them dining at their favourite restaurant - Elisa in Yaletown.
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One thing that is unique about the duo (like they need to be MORE unique!) is that they do not wear their designs exclusively, as many designers do, when asked where they shop, Laurence excitedly says, ?Everywhere! Online, offline, specialty boutiques, consignment stores, department stores. In Paris ? Le Bon Marche, New York ? Opening Ceremony, Bergdorf ?s.? Meanwhile, devotees can purchase online at Moda Operandi and Luisa Via Roma, and shop in person at 3NY in New York, 14 locations in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
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f ai rmont paci f i c ri m, 1038 canada pl ace
PAOLO FAZI OLI RECONSTRUCTI ON LAUNCH
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n the din of the Fairmont Pacif ic Rim?s bustling Lobby Lounge, Paolo Fazioli weaves through a crowd of excited onlookers, accepting words of excitement and congratulations for his latest masterpiece. He is bespectacled, smartly dressed and gives off an air of excitement that overshadows the jet lag he must be feeling, having arrived from Italy only a couple of hours before, to present the 2020 version of the Fairmont?s Fazioli piano. As the founder and namesake of Fazioli Pianoforti, his work not only includes designing what is well known to be the world?s finest concert pianos but testing each one before it is permitted to leave the factory. A trip to Vancouver for this occasion is a special treat, a chance to showcase his collaboration with local master origami artist J oseph Wu. It is also a chance to see an old friend. Manuel Bernaschek was the first to bring Fazioli pianos to Vancouver thirteen years ago. After a visit to the Fazioli factory in Italy, and a promise that he would make the name known on the west coast, Bernaschek was granted permission to carry the brand. Today, Showcase Pianos? two locations are recognized as being the highest-selling Fazioli dealer worldwide and have been instrumental in building a partnership with the Westbank Corporation. As the piano is unveiled, onlookers gaze upon a beautifully crafted work of brilliant white with delicately placed pentagons that appear to float across its body. Underneath the exposed top, a three-dimensional walnut inlay adds even more depth.
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The piano was designed to echo Wu?s spectacular Origami Light Sculpture, which is suspended over the hotel?s new TASCHEN library. It has been there since the hotel opened in 2010. The entire design process was completed without meeting in person. However, this was not an issue for Wu. ?Having seen examples of their work in the past, I didn?t have any doubts that they would be able to do it,? he said of the Fazioli team.
Wu cites Malcolm Gladwell?s book Blink for giving him clarity into how his process of learning how to fold a bold new origami design, works. Thanks to his countless hours of practice, his intuition guided him to execute it without overthinking. ?If I have an idea of what I want to do, the design just sort of materializes,? he says. ?I know how to start, and I know I can finish, but I have no idea consciously how to process will exist.? This concept holds whether designing a piano case, a 180-foot installation like the Fairmont?s, or a playful mouse to usher in the Lunar New Year for his dedicated Instagram fan base. After the unveiling, acclaimed virtuoso Carl Petersson steps to the piano and launches into a passionate number that exhibits the Fazioli?s famously wide range of colour and tone.The Swedish-born pianist balances a role as Showcase Piano?s Artistic Director with a busy schedule of touring and recording, which is done exclusively on Fazioli. Petersson mentions this is the first opportunity he has had to meet Paolo Fazioli?never mind play for him. When asked why he prefers to play these iconic pianos, it is clear that it is an issue of no contest.
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Fazioli?s key differentiation is his anti-industrialist view of piano production. Each piano is treated as an individual, not part of a line, and is subject to continuous experimentation and research by experts in the fields of wood material science, engineering, and design. The average timeline for a piano to be completed is about two years. The most lavish of his creations call Vancouver home, with more in development thanks to Fazioli?s strong relationship with Manuel Bernaschek (Showcase Pianos) and Ian Gillespie (Westbank Corp). With ambitious projects on the horizon, Fazioli tempers his excitement with thoughts of where he is meant to be, at his factory in Sacile. ?In the future, my plan is to spend more time at home,? he says. He cites a new collaboration with a university in Milan as a source of excitement and growth for the company. ?We are always improving the sound of our piano and the quality of the instrument.?
It seems that as much as it is adored worldwide and played by legends like Herbie Hancock and Angela Hewitt, there will never really be the perfect Fazioli piano. But this notion of ?perfection?is one that Fazioli himself does not care for, or believe, as every piano comes off the line more magnificent than the last.
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ph oto edi tori al : bl oodl ess bul l f i gh t
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Con cept / Dir ect or : M ar ia Avila Ph ot ogr aph y: Au dr ey Bow M ake-Up: Gw en Per k in s
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TWEED DE CHANEL HI GH JEWELRY x JENNI FER ZHANG
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wice a year in Paris, fashion takes a moment to celebrate the most exclusive, expensive and extraordinary works created by the houses of haute couture. Fashionista from around the globe heed the Siren's call and jet in with empty monogrammed trunks, prepared for the hunt. Haute couture is French and translates into high dressmaking. Although you will see designers using this term, it is in error, as haute couture is a legally protected term and only usable by brands approved by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. Those that are part of this elite group must adhere to strict rules which govern the amount of fulltime staff, number of fittings per garment, and, most importantly, present a collection of no less than 50 original designs of both day and evening garments, every J anuary and J uly. Vancouver?s J ennif er Zhang, the owner of Concrete Cashmere Design, is a woman who has exquisite taste and a love of Chanel. Upon her return from Paris Haute Couture SS20, she shared with us her experience at the Tweed de Chanel High J ewelry Gala Evening, which was held at the Distillerie Clacquesin, with 200 other VIPs. She accessorized her crystal-embellished Alexandre Vauthier dress, with a vintage Chanel bag, and a piece from the evenings launch collection valued at $600K, which was presented to her upon entering. Enjoy this foray into this Scottish themed evening!
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a w eek -end aw ay...b ev erl y h i l l s
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bev erl y w i l sh i re: 4500 w i l sh i re bl v d
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eatured in movies such as much-loved Pretty Woman, classic buddy film Beverly Hills Cop, the enduring Clueless, the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills turned 92 this year. Now owned by the Four Seasons Hotel chain, this 395-room hotel was built in 1928 when Beverly Hills had less than 1,000 residents. This iconic landmark was designed by Los Angeles Architects Albert Walker and Percy Eisen. The duo also created the El Cortez in San Diego and the Fine Arts Building in downtown Los Angeles. The grand design is reflective of an era when sculptural components were integrated into the architecture, creating a design that conveyed purpose and meaning. The Beverly Wilshire was built on site of the Beverly Auto Speedway, and at the time, residents of Beverly Hills would gather on the greens of the property and picnic while enjoying Model T Ford races on Sunday afternoons.
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A STORIED HISTORY This grand hotel has stood through numerous moments in history and was even designated an air raid shelter during World War II, and withstood major earthquakes in 1933, 1971, and 1994. Always known as a location for luxury and high-profile clientele, The Beverly Wilshire has been home to many renowned celebrities over the decades. Elvis Presley, Warren Beatty, and Steve McQueen all enjoyed extended stays and have become part of the history of the hotel. The private pool was modelled after legendary Italian superstar Sophia Loren?s private villa.
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Known for having the largest sui 5,000-square-feet, the property expensive suite in the city, start night! And for guests who wish tour of Beverly Hills, the hotel of a Rolls Royce house car. TO SUP AND DINE
Some of Los Angele's most soug right inside the hotel. CUT by W for plantbased dining but there a combined to create a stunning p steakhouse aroma.
uite in Los Angeles at y also holds the most ing at a mere $25,000 per to round out their stay with a offers complimentary access to
ght-after fine dining is located Wolf gang Puck is not known are delicious sides that can be plate, if you do not mind the
Our choice was THE Blvd Caf e and Lounge for fresh, local California cuisine enjoyed on the patio overlooking Rodeo Drive. The carrot cake was vegan and cocktails vibrant. Some named after movies and actors who have stayed there. The Pretty Woman was particularly gorgeous with rose petal garnish. In the evening we retired to the indoor lounge and indulged friends with fine wines, aged whiskey, around the 18-foot onyx bar. It is no wonder the hotel has been awarded the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five- Star Award. The service was impeccable, in-room dining was prompt, and the heated pool, were what a rain-weary couple from Vancouver needed!
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FROM MOROCCO TO MODERN DAY To learn about the Beverly Hills, we must go back 140-years to the story of two land developers named Henry Hammel and Charles Denker. In the early 1880s, this duo acquired the land with the intent to create a sub-division which would be named Morocco and themed after North Af rica. The endeavour failed because of the US economic collapse of 1888. In the 1900s, fortunes turned, and a group of oil-speculators, led by Burton E. Green, bought the land, which was being used for bean farming, and began drilling for oil. He found no oil but copious amounts of water. In 1906, Green and his partners rebranded as the Rodeo Land and Water Company and inspired by Beverly Farms, in Massachusetts, Green and his wife renamed the bean field Beverly Hills. By 1914, the local population grew to a point where Beverly Hills was incorporated as a city. However, it was not until Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks acquired Pickfair Mansion that film industry stars, directors and producers, began moving in which resulted in the area having the notoriety of being a celebrity haven which has endured to today. HISTORICAL REPURPOSING Beverly Hills has more to offer visitors than a neighbourhood of luxury shopping and dining experiences! At street level, a striking 9/ 11 Memorial, containing an actual steel beam recovered from the ruins of the World Trade Center, was added, and the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts was created by repurposing a classic decommissioned US Post Of f ice building. With its enduring ceiling murals produced during the Great Depression by artist Charles Kassler, a multi-use 150-seat theatre with theatre school, a cafĂŠ, and gift shop. The project was completed with a modern addition of the 500-seat Goldsmith Theatre, a state-of-the-art-facility where a multitude of world-class performers has entertained.
This year Beverly Hills celebrated its 106th anniversary and continues to be the place to be seen. World-renowned for its exclusive high-end stores, visitors find the latest runway releases, fresh drops, and bespoke design services. The famous Rodeo Drive is where you will find legendary department stores Neiman- Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, experience European ultra-luxury at Stefano Ricci, and discover glamour at Cartier, Prada, Gucci, Valentino, Armani, Dior, and more. Adjacent is the cobblestoned Two Rodeo Drive where Versace, Lanvin, J immy Choo, and Tif fany reside.
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For those seeking to step away from the eye-candy experiences that originate on the Rodeo Drives, should shift over a few blocks to the charming and vibrant South Beverly Drive. This accessible enclave is an eclectic collection of fine dining and cozy eateries, high-end local designer boutiques, art galleries, pastry shops, and divine spas where even the most-hardy shopper can find peaceful relaxation.
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l adurée: 311 n bev erl y dri v e
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Having been tempted by Ladurée on Robson Street too many times to count, and having to endure meetings where my companions gorged on their famous French Toast, it was with exquisite delight that we discovered the Beverly Hills franchise was vegan. Finally, a Ladurée, where one would not have to cobble together a brunch meal with a bar of chocolate, fresh-cut ripe fruits, and tea. (Not that it was not delicious, but the French Toast appears otherworldly!)
The resulting macarons come in a variety of delicious flavours, including rose, raspberry, salted caramel, hemp, along with meringue-topped tarts, croissants, and other French pastry classics. Savoury dishes include Croque Monsieur, onion soup, and omelettes.
The Versailles-inspired aesthetic was given a modern and chic California twist by designer India Mahdavi.
Ladurée feels that the opening of the Beverly Hills store in 2017 was a natural progression as the brand continues to grow and expand internationally.
The famous tea room?s decision to turn their Beverly Hills flagship into a vegan venue came with much research and development, and by ultimately engaging renowned plantbased American chef Matthew Kenney, who was found on Instagram! In fact, the location is named Ladurée by Matthew Kenney to acknowledge this relationship formally. Kenney created new recipes that modernized the famed pastries by replacing all the dairy-based products with almond buttermilk, aqua fava, and coconut oil.
While their other tea rooms around the world remain unchanged, Paris and New York locations have added a selection of plantbased dishes to their offerings.
We find it glorious and very brave for a brand born in 1892 to acknowledge this and applaud Ladurée for its vision. Now we wait patiently for the Vancouver franchise and cute macaron carts to take up the mantle, especially in a city with the highest percent of plantbased eaters in the country!
decades: 8214 mel rose av enue
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CAMERON SI LVER LEGENDARY VI NTAGE CURATOR
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t was 2012, and a Schiaparelli blowfish walking stick made the Met Gala arrivals come standstill. Wearing a Nicole Miller ?Ticket Print?suit, vintage fashion purveyor Cameron Silver broke the red carpet. From Perez Hilton to the Hollywood Reporter, everyone was talking about Nicole Miller?s escort and his eccentric outfit. Founder of Decades Inc. and doyen of vintage attire, Silver was no stranger to dressing for impress. As a precocious 7-year old he was partial to wearing a fedora, vest, white shirt, tie, and khakis, and at 13-years, he planned an entertaining bar mitzvah complete cabaret act and ?The Cameron Awards,?in a tuxedo, top hat, and white gloves. Five years of dressing up and mischievous shenanigans followed, including a year where he went from being a doted-on and indulged child to being one of seven when his parents hosted a Laotian boat family.
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Graduated and living in his parent?s guesthouse, Silver studied Theatre Arts at UCLA and began a career as an actor and travelling cabaret singer, even releasing an ill-fated album in 1996. A pit-stop during a two-week tour in Seattle proved to be a turning point in the young Silver?s life. A thrift store called Atomic Bomb beckoned, and soon Silver was the proud owner of three Rudi Gernreich dresses and a Dior couture ball gown, which were promptly sent home for safekeeping. Decades Inc. was born in 1997 in an under-appreciated section of West Hollywood on Melrose Avenue, and the store has been patronized by celebrities ever since. Who can resist the lure of the elegance and uniqueness that vintage offers? The construction, hand detailing, and provenance that comes with a gorgeous gown by Dior, Balenciaga, Valentino or Chanel?
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2001 was a watershed year for vintage as both Renee Zellweger, and J ulia Roberts dressed in it for the Oscars. The wearing of vintage was thrust into the spotlight and celebrities embraced this new avenue of individuality. The following spring, a clingy white vintage Azzaro from Decades clung to the slim frame of Nicole Kidman as she attended the New York premiere of Moulin Rouge, followed by it gracing the cover of Women?s Wear Daily the next morning. Silver?s notoriety has only built year after year. Having been named one of Time Magazine?s ?25 Most Inf luential Names and Faces in Fashion? in 2002, he went on to star in one of the first reality series Dukes of Melrose, in 2012 he won the Visionary Award from The Art of Elysium, and published a coffee table book aptly entitled Decades: A Century of Fashion (published by Bloomsbury) that sold-out within 48 hours. In 2013, as part of a worldwide book tour, which began in Paris with chic soiree with guests burlesque artist Dita von Teese, haute couturier Andrew Gn, Silver held a book-signing in Vancouver at Blubird boutique on Alberni Street, where he shared with a delighted crowd that he had indeed thrifted in the city during his cabaret touring days.
Silver?s passion for design has extended past retail to acting as a creative consultant and ambassador to brands like Pringle, Boucheron, and Azzaro, collaborating with jewelry maven Miriam Haskell, partnering with footwear brand Modern Vintage, and narrated the Versailles 1973 documentary about the restoration event of the famed French palace. He is heavily involved with The Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and served as the Honorary Chair of the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis?legendary Dada Ball. In 2020, Silver is observing the resurgence of secondhand and vintage shopping with the satisfaction in knowing that he played a part in this movement - one that is gathering momentum as the world realizes that we all need to act to slow down the destruction of our environment. Amid all the media noise, Silver hasn't changed his message to the masses; the difference is now, people of all generations are listening.
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?As we enter the second decade of the 21st century, distinctive style is through a medley of vintage and modern, high-end and accessible brands, tailored and sports styles, and an embracing of repeating and repurposing what already exists in your closet. "The icons of the past always repeated looks, and one can?t fight for a ban on plastic straws if one thinks showing up in the same top twice in their IG feed is a fashion violation. It is both ?chic to repeat? and ?the best new clothes are old clothes,? but I am also encouraged by new designs and an embracing of sustainability.?
YVR WELCOMES CAMERON SILVER The recent Special Pop- up with Decades in The Apartment at Holt Renf rew is evidence that our collective mentality is changing. There was a time, even five years ago, when the notion of a luxury department store even entertaining the idea of having a non-designer bring vintage items to sell to their VIP clientele would have been scoffed at. As Champagne and canapes circulated, Silver shared his curated pieces with the well-heeled and impeccably dressed of the west coast's fashionista.
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Even before the doors opened, an embroidered Hermès Trocadero top was scooped up by an old friend who had been invited for a preview. Soon the change rooms were full and secondary rooms were being sought out by attentive staff. Silver?s comfortable demeanour and smile radiated sincerity as he recommended pieces and shared details about each, which ranged from Chanel to Miyake to Moschino Cheap & Chic, and included an array of chunky accessories in black onyx, and gold. ?Right now, Decades has incredible momentum, and there are so many new business opportunities that our trajectory is for intelligent growth and sensitive expansion. I never thought I would have this business for nearly a quarter of a century, but I feel like I?ve only just begun!" When asked if there is a ?holy grail?garment that he is still seeking, he replies, ?A true ?holy grail? garment will be discovering something I didn?t know existed. I?ve been so lucky to see some of the most important pieces of the 20th century come through Decades ranging from a YSL for Dior alligator motorcycle jacket to a Rudi Gernreich topless swimsuit.?
When in Los Angeles, do not even think of leaving without a visit to Decades on Melrose Avenue! Explore the world of vintage curated by the incredible Cameron Silver and sought out by celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Madonna, Angelina J olie, J ennif er Lopez, and Nicole Ritchie.
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ev ents...i t's gal a season agai n!
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f or ch i l dren w e care gal a, f ai rmont h otel v ancouv er
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n the east wall of the Rosewood Hotel Georgia lobby is an intriguing piece of art. Created by UK artist Patrick Hughes, the work with protrusions appears to recede, and the receding parts appear to protrude, an optical illusion on a 3-dimensional surface where parts of the picture which seem farthest away are physically the nearest, and as the guests walk by the work, the composition appears to be continually moving.
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Next month, the 25th BC Children?s Hospital For Children We Care Gala will effervesce w sequined gowns, sharp tuxedos, bubbly flutes Champagne, and bidding paddles. This year?s g expected to draw more than 800 philanthrop business leaders and aims to raise $5 million night for critical funds for BC Children?s Hospi world-class orthopedic team.
l annual with s of gala is pic and n in one ital?s
At the centre of the evening?s fundraising strategy is the auctioning of another confounding Hughes piece entitled Andy, J ef f , Damien. The piece, donated by Christian Chia, CEO of the OpenRoad Auto Group and his wife Carole Chia, is valued at $217,500. With Andy, Jeff, Damien, Hughes playfully presents the interior of a museum, showcasing the works of iconic yet controversial pop artists Andy Warhol, J ef f Koons, and Damien Hirst.
This is an important, large-scale piece representing Hughes?vision at its best. With its intricate hand-painted details, impeccable construction, and desirable subject matter, this highly collectible work will decidedly appeal to the gala attendees. Saturday, March 7, 2020 25th Annual For Children We Care Gala
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REV EA L - th e greatest sh ow on earth , rogers arena
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V
ancouver is in the midst of the glamorous gala season, and the hottest ticket so far has been for REVEAL - the Greatest Show on Earth. Presented by BMO Bank of Montreal and co-chaired by Clara Aquilini and J ill Killeen, the 4th Reveal Gala raised an astonishing $1,0222,000 for Canucks Autism Network. With a ?Big Top?theme, Grammy-winning NYC chanteuse and provocateur, Rizo, commanded centre ring as Reveal?s Ringmaster and dazzled the 500+ guests with a comedic performance complete with three show-stopping musical numbers.
Vancouver?s own Underground Circus presented an awe-inspiring spectacle made up of contortionists, aerial acts, contact jugglers, and stilt marionettes. Canucks Autism Network music students left a lasting imprint on the hearts of attendees with their touching rendition of This is Me from The Greatest Showman. The star of The Good Doctor, Freddie Highmore, was among VIPs, alongside Paolo and Clara Aquilini, the founders of the Canucks Autism Network, Showcase Piano?s Manuel Bernaschek, Patrizia and Sean Mitchell, J ill and Mike Killeen and Vancouver Canucks legends, Kirk McLean, Clif f Ronning, J yrki Lumme, and Dave Babych. Carnival games, DJ beats, dancing, mini doughnuts and candy floss kept guests partying under the big top long after the curtains closed.
In the early 80s, while flipping through dogeared Vogue magazines, little did I realize the imprint that Grace Coddington's fashion editorials would have on an adult me and what would resonate in my mind as defining elegance and luxury. The Vogue editorials which drew me in were dark and mysterious. Grandiose gowns on thin frames flowed over the pages, exaggerated hair and makeup, with dramatic staging and lighting.
publ i sh er's message
By the late 80s, George Michael had all of us hooked on supermodels via music videos and the vision of designer Thierry Mugler. It was through this period; I discovered Peter Lindbergh and his black and white photography of supermodels at their best but also their most raw and powerful.
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It is through this lens that we (photographer Sonya Reznitsky, MUA Gwen Perkins, and I) created an homage to the late master Lindbergh, who passed in 2019. With this issue, I launch the 2020 look and feel of Folio.YVR. Sleek and streamlined with more personalities, experiences, and less ostentatious objects of desire. Ecoluxury is a way of thinking and living that guides us through our days, weeks, and beyond. Being kind to the planet, making changes to benefit the environment, showing compassion to all living things?not just the ones who share our lives?and being the voice for the voiceless.
I know that some think 'ecoluxury' is an oxymoron but I believe that it means a return to buying items of value and quality, which, undoubtedly, will cost more. Living an ecoluxury lifestyle means reducing, reusing when possible, and celebrating hand-made over machine-made. Buying less and rewarding companies that are changing, and, most importantly, being less impulsive and selfish. Recognizing that everything we do, however minute, impacts the life of someone or something. Think with your heart. Going into 2020, Folio.YVR will continue to share only plantbased dining, fashion editorials without furs and exotic skins, cruelty-free beauty products/ services, and will be continue to be a strong voice of advocacy for inclusion and diversity. Folio.YVR will also continue to a sponsored content publication, as my opinion of stand-alone advertising has not changed nor has the belief that creatives should be compensated for their work, as defined by the parties involved. Here's to a new year, a new look, and to making change where we can. Best wishes to all,
Publisher/ Editor- in- Chief Helen Siwak, EcoLuxLuv Comms Assistant Editor Coleman Pete Photography Credits Cover: Lyle Reimer via Rizzoli USA Page 1: Daily Palette Page 3: Helen Siwak Pages 5- 11: Rizzoli USA Pages 13- 16: Laurence & Chico Page 17: Leila Kwok Pages 18- 19: Laurence & Chico Pages 21- 22: Fazioli Of f icial Page 24: Manuel Bernaschek Pages 25- 28: Fazioli Of f icial Pages 29- 30: Kat Willson Photography Pages 31- 38: As Credited on Page Page 39- 40: Dinner with a View Page 41- 48: Chanel Of f icial Pages 49- 52: Helen Siwak Pages 54- 58: Beverly Wilshire Page 57: (LL) Helen Siwak Pages 59- 64: Helen Siwak Pages 65- 66: LadurĂŠe Pages 67- 68: Decades Inc. Pages 69- 74: Helen Siwak Pages 75- 76: Decades Inc. Pages 77- 78: Helen Siwak Pages 79- 80: Holt Renf rew Pages 81- 82: Dinner with a View Pages 83- 88: SOMA PR Pages 89- 92: Canucks Autism Network Page 94: Sonya Reznitsky Page 94: MUA: Gwen Perkins / Belle and Rebel Beauty Pages 95- 96: Helen Siwak
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All rights reserved. No part of the material protected by this copyright notice may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, without written permission f rom EcoLuxLuv Communications. FOLIO.YVR does not accept any responsibilities for incorrect information as all information is deemed to be accurate as of date of publishing. FOLIO.YVR does not accept unsolicited materials. FOLIO.YVR is published monthly by EcoLuxLuv Communications and is a sponsored supplement and marketing tool designed to augment services provided by EcoLuxLuv Communications. Queries regarding collaboration, sponsorship, marketing, consulting, and/ or inclusion in FOLIO.YVR, and other ELL Comms titles should be directed to the publisher via email: helen@ecoluxluv.com or text to 778.847.3011. Mailing/ Delivery address: Helen Siwak, Suite A, 489 West 6th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Y 1L3