Angela’s Eventful Events
By Angela Ostafichuk
Spring; it’s finally here!
It’s Wednesday night and I’m waiting for my couchsurfer. Or, rather, worrying about my couchsurfer. Her profile says she’s a 100-year old serial killer, and I mean, I’ve always wanted to meet a vampire, but maybe this is just a little too close for comfort. It’s pretty nice to get a girl this time though as about 85% of my requests are males. About 50% of that lot is using it to pick up girls and the other half is pretty legit and awesome. I screen very carefully and haven’t had any problems yet. Besides, the occasional international company is indeed welcome.
From here on in, until I depart Edmonton again, life is jam-packed. In between work, photography, running a company, a few personal projects, and trying to find the cheapest and safest way around the world as a single female, I’m still trying to find that balance that gives me a few minutes for myself.
Life is good though. No, wait, life is great and I have so much to be thankful for. There are lots of wonderful things in Edmonton that I am also looking forward to as well.
On Saturday and Sunday,”Over the Top Swap” is back, and promises to be good fun way to renew your wardrobe. I’m photographing a bit of it so I’m looking forward to see what I can come up with.
Also this weekend is “Breaking Barriers: Feminist Gender Jam and Silent Auction” which promises to be a great fundrasier.
Tickets have gone on sale for “Beauty and the Pleats” a benefit for Suit Yourself. I’ve grabbed two tickets for the event.
Lions Breath is still offering their F’awesome Fridays which means pay-what you can yoga classes. I love their acro-yoga class, and recently did an acro workshop at another yoga studio, so it’s gaining popularity in Edmonton.
Besides great activities there are also a lot of great blogs being written by Edmontonians to spend time with. My pick this week for some entertaining reads is “Sexy Edmonton.” A wonderfully well written blog about a young woman’s tips, tricks and stories on the sexier side of Edmonton. Check it out!
That’s all for now my fellow peeps. Feel free to follow me on Twitter or my blog as I try and navigate my crazy 20-something life.
Food and Fashion
By Angela Ostafichuk
It’s Wednesday afternoon and my dad has just popped a bottle of champagne at the lunch we’re attending. I’m not drinking but I indeed have a lot to celebrate. My family’s healthy and happy, people are beginning to take note of my photography and more and more of my photos are being used in articles around the world. Acro yoga is coming along (we can now do this routine), and I’m increasing my running time little by little. When you send good thoughts out, you get them back, and lately I’ve been sending out the good karma vibes. (more…)
Stupid Tweets Live Forever
Social media, whether we like it or not, is here to stay. From Facebook and Twitter to YouTube, we live in the age of rapid “information.” No matter where I go in the world, we are in constant communication. Even in Syria, where Facebook has been banned, I managed to hack in to check my account and spread the word about where I was (Much to the dismay of the U.S. Government which now pulls me aside every time I enter, demanding to know what I was doing in Syria. Combined with Colombian stamps of entry and exit, the next few years on my passport will not be pleasant if I have to enter America.).
On the whole, social media is great. But lately, it seems to be a trend of girls gone bad on the Internet. The days of “Girls Gone Wild” are gone and seem to have been replaced by “Girls Gone Racist” and “Girls Gone Incredibly Stupid.” Now, there is no hard and fast guide to what is kosher and what is not. We’ve probably all seen warnings about Facebook coming back to haunt you, but that extends to everything on the Internet. (more…)
As Much Edmonton As Possible
Friday. It’s the best day of the week, and the first one of a new month. I can’t believe it’s March already. I’ve made a nine month plan for myself to get it all together and then, hopefully, get back to Asia. But things always change… After looking at all the countries I haven’t been to, I have a lot to venture to.
I’ve bought a new pair of kicks for running, went back to blogging and am working to get eight hours of sleep. Little steps make me feel like I’m actually achieving things. I’ve also signed myself up for Deathswitch because last year’s trip to South America was a close call. I’m still trying to figure out the “Switch” though. Like, if I die, will it e-mail everyone on my friends list saying something like “Come to my funeral,” or “Ding-dong the witch is gone,”? I always trying to be prepared, but I never feel prepared enough when things do happen.
Let’s see how much Edmonton I can get into one Friday. (more…)
How to get out of the city (more often)
Saturday night, 10pm Lattitude 53. I have a new appreciation for coat check girls. The four of us in the back have been going non-stop, and now all the coat hangers are gone, and there is no where else to put the coats. Latitude is packed with the best dressed (and hottest) Edmontonians and I’m enjoying the hipster fashion show from where I stand. Due to the frigid weather I’ve chosen a simple (but trend-setting) black dress I picked up in Japan. Paired with purple tights and my favourite high-heeled boots it’s fun, but functional. Everyone else around me looks great and it’s so refreshing to see people dressed up in the dead of winter.
I’ve run into so many people I know, from work, other parties, and, most of all, from high school as all the Vic kids are always at art events. It’s always weird when you run into people from your past and you haven’t added them on Facebook (or vice-versa). The small talk always leads to “So, what are you up to now?” as if some kind of fragile competition has ensued to see who has come the furthest. I used to tell people what I did and what my life was like. I would tell them about the amazing places I had seen, the beautiful people, and how wonderful our world was. However, I frequently got a very mediocre response over my enthusiasm; “It must be so nice to have all that money to waste on travel.”
So, after a few years, I stopped telling people about traveling. Now whenever I meet someone from the past I reply with a general answer that I’m pretty dull and don’t do too much.
Despite the lukewarm people, I do feel that travel is one of the only thing you spend money on that will make you richer. I have been lucky to have experienced this and, indeed every penny I put into being on the road, has been an investment 10 times over. I always come home feeling much faster, stronger, smarter, happier and so much more grateful.
I often hear “How do you afford to travel?” or “I could never afford to leave like you do.” True not everyone can travel as much as I do, but you can travel if you want to. You just have to make it a priority.
Travel is important for me, so I make sure to put money away for it. OK, so I owe money away. To keep myself from just sitting at home watching the travel channel (is there such a thing?) I’ve stuck to three general rules to make sure I’ve got money to see the world and live a simpler lifestyle. (more…)
Angela (back) in the city
(Editor’s note: Remember Angela? One of our intrepid fashionistas, and always looking on the bright side. She’s back.)
Life indeed has been hectic since I got back from backpacking around South America but, for once, I’m happy to be here. You would think that switching from 14-hour days of summer to 9-hour days of winter would be hard, but not this time. One of my New Year’s resolutions, made as I watched fireworks from my balcony in Bolivia, was to figure out my city. I had traveled and trekked around the world, but Edmonton still remained a mystery to me.
No sweat though, I’ve figured out my way around foreign lands so this should be a snap. (more…)
It was a rainy day in Pizzaville…
Look, we were going to tell you to take Angela’s advice and check out the pay-what-you can performance of Much Ado About Nothing, but it’s come to our attention some people are not going to brave this weather for the Freewill Shakespeare Festival.
So, open up a window, if it’s not pouring rain into all of yours, sit down with a hot mug of – insert favourite hot beverage here – and listen to that rain drench Edmonton.
Perhaps it will be a nice evening of quiet reflection for you.
The umbrella is mightier than the sword. (Against rain.)
Searching for sunshine
365 Days of Sunshine, by Angela Ostafichuk
Hello Edmontonians, and welcome to summer.
In between teaching, hosting, hula-hooping and watching football it seems like the summer is melting quicker then the popsicle I forgot in the sun. As we all know, summer is truly the best time to be in Edmonton. The weather is good, the days are long and we have a million things to do in July and August.
Here is what’s cheap (or free) in this city this week.
Until July 18, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is running in Churchill square. Come on down and see some wonderful entertainment from around the world. Although the cost is free, donations are more then accepted as nobody *really* wants to be a starving artist.
Tuesday night check out “Much Ado About Nothing” in Hawrelak park, part of the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. As it is pay-what-you-will night, it makes for an entertaining, low cost evening. The festival runs until the end of the month and tickets usually are priced from $15 to $22.50.
For those women who are interested in spicing it up a bit (and I always say, an educated woman is not only smart, she’s happy) there is the “Orgasams 101″ workshop running out of the Traveling Tickle Trunk. Although people may complain that $25 is a bit much for a few hours, I say it is not. This workshop is priceless. It’s for women only, and you can check out their website for more education opportunities. (July 25 offers a Penis Pleasing workshop….These classes fill up fast though so make sure you register ahead of time.)
Thursday, July 15 gives a few opportunities to work on your inner artist. The AGA is back with their summer adult art classes. This week focuses on the Group of Seven and how to do acrylic landscape painting. At $12 a class these aren’t free, however, they are a wonderful way to try something new. A few blocks away, at Latitude 53, the rooftop patio series is still running, with the 15th featuring JCI.
Friday, the Fava summer party is at the Ortona armory and, being a potluck, means plenty of food and fun. Kick it back here, or enjoy one of Edmonton’s many patios with a walk, after, through the valley, while the sun sets.
And as for Saturday and Sunday… I’ll leave that up to you. For me it means farmers market, hooping at the Leg grounds and coffee at Credo! But who am I to tell you what to do?
Any ideas for what other Edmontonians do? Please leave a comment, or Twitter me at artstylelove.
Cheap Thrills
Continuing our new love of talking about Edmonton events beyond the weekend, we offer you Angela’s look at how you can have fun without spending a lot of money.
365 Days of Sunshine, by Angela Ostafichuk
Summer’s almost here and it’s time to celebrate.
Turn off your TV and get going!
After reading “The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin, I’ve decided to follow the golden path of having a more fulfilling life. In my quest for happiness this year I want to do as much as I can to see what makes me tick.
So turn off your TV, and feel free to join my 365 days towards a
better life.
Little or no money you say? No worries. Edmonton is one of the best places to be in the summertime with multiple outdoor festivals, events and concerts. There are literally hundreds of things to do here, some better then others.
From sex workshops to looking at the stars to eating popsicles while dancing in the street, the key is to think outside the box this summer. So whether you have 10 cents, 10 dollars or a 50 (call me!) in your pocket there’s something for everyone.
Last week saw Nextfest start around the city. The Enterprise Square Gallery features works from new artists and is worth a stroll through, at no cost. The rest of the festival is still amazingly priced with $5 for the nightclubs and $10 for a show.
Think outside the box for summer 2010.
Tuesday June 8, the Creative Age Festival kicks off. Although deemed as a festival for the 65+ crowds, there is lots to do even if you’re not loud, proud and retired. Grab gramps and head down.
Both Wednesday and Thursday (June 9 and 10) feature free movies at
the EPL. Wednesday is The Girlfriend Experience and Thursday features It
Might Get Loud. Both FREE, they start at 6:30 in the Milner Library.
Thursday also kicks off Pride week with a show at The ARTery titled “Peculiar Peckers: Drag Kings & Other Phallic Things” which will be worth checking out. Tickets are $5 and the entertainment is priceless.
Friday is a day to work out, so come join my friend Elly and I on what we like to call “walk and watch” on the stairs by Victoria Trail. If you have no clue what I’m referencing to, join us and you’ll see.
Friday is also a great time to just chill on one of Edmonton’s lovely patios, enjoy a walk through the river valley or read a book.
Saturday is jam-packed with events.
Of course everyone knows it’s the Pride Parade, that kicks off on Jasper at 1pm.
Before that, though, there are many events downtown including a pancake breakfast before, and a block party after on 104th, which goes until 10 pm. Add the Nextfest wrap-ups to Pride and downtown is the place to be.
Stay tuned for more cheap thrills as I figure out how to go big without going broke.
Where is the best place for cupcakes? Bubble tea? People watching? This summer I plan on solving these mysteries so keep reading Edmonton and keep it fresh.
More from Angela at her blog, or on Twitter.
We’ve got style
Western Canada Fashion Week: In Review
“It became clear to me during the last 3 days of Western Canada Fashion Week (WCFW) that although Edmonton has a dress code of jeans and t-shirts, this city has some seriously stylish people and not a piece of Lululemon or a set of Uggs to be seen at this event (a true sign that winter is coming to an end).
With some heavy hitters in the Canadian industry involved (such as Joeffer Caoc), it was another fine display of Canadian talent.
Newcomer Derek Jagodzinsky ( a proud Edmontonian) showcased his line which featured holographic prints, neon and a (very) sexy man in a speedo!
Luxx by Derek Jagodzinsky
On Thursday Micheal Kaye, who flew in from NYC, showcased his S/S collection. Having fitted numerous celebrities (including Martha Stewart), Kaye brought down the house with his simple but elegant clothing in bright jewel tones.
Michael Kaye and his collection.
For men, strong shapes and darker colors were featured throughout.
Other designers featured included Jessica Halabi, Kelsey McIntyre and BebaBean through the last three days.
Although fashion week featured mostly clothes for women, there were more then a few styles for men.
Designer Cherrie Cruz with her fashionisto in training!
Guys, the main colors seem to be bright red, neon yellow and white for spring, while for women, brights seemed to be the norm. However, there are no hard and heavy rules when it comes to style anything goes.
So Edmontonians don’t be afraid to take that style risk when you show up for work.
Whether it be that extra pop of color in a scarf or those sexy stilettos you’ve always wanted to dig out, go for it. And if anyone asks, say you were bitten by the WCFW bug.
And as for me, I’m off to Asia for the next while to check out what’s hip on the other side.
So keep posted and keep it stylish Edmonton!
WCFW – All the fashion that’s fit to wear
Yes, my little kitties, Western Canada Fashion Week has closed. But fret not, we’ve got some more of your new favourite fashions right here. Right now.
Thanks goes out to our Fashion Bureau Chief, Angela Ostafichuk, for a week of photos, updates, and fashion. She even snagged herself a correspondent in Chris Chan. Photos to follow are theirs. Words are mine. Fashion is forever.
Fun
Austere
Sexy
Haute
Important
Organized
Naughty
See you at the next fashion week, Edmonton.
More on Western Canada Fashion Week here, here and here. More on last year’s Edmonton Fashion week here.
Gaga couture
Photos from our Fashion Bureau Chief, Angela Ostafichuk
You know, the thing about Western Canada Fashion Week (formerly known as Edmonton Fashion Week) is that it lasts all week.
That means we get to flood you with all the fashionistas and their work. And there are models too.
But let’s delve into the stuff that no fashion week can do without; the really weird things that you wouldn’t actually wear.
Unless you are Lady Gaga.
Yes, this is a Lady Gaga tribute, by Jenelle Forde.
I don't even know what kind of party I have to be invited to to wear something like this. (By Temna Fialka)
More couture. So haute right now. (By Rebecca Pichoch)
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One of the recognized winners of the week, Jessie Saumier, gets her model ready for the stage.
And we’ll close things out with something I think you could actually wear off the catwalk. That does happen at Western Canada Fashion Week too, it’s not all about big and crazy designs. Though, that stuff is pretty fun. And sometimes bold and scary.
There's been a lot of light, colourful, flowy items this week. I suspect that means they are "in." But what do I know about fashion...
(More from Western Canada Fashion Week, and Angela’s camera, here and here.)
The fashion continues
Story and photos By Angela Ostafichuk
Day two and three of Western Canada Fashion Week proved that not only does Canada have talent, but the fact it’s becoming stronger then ever.
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Day 2 of Western Canada Fashion Week begins.
Friday showcased an amazing mix of accessories, bags by the “Just Me” line by Jenna Marie, and Birch Bark hats by Andeo Hats.
Edmonton, Cherrie Cruz. Cherrie Cruz, Edmonton.
Edmontonian Cherrie Cruz showed her stunning line of S/S 2010…followed by Vancouverite Jason Matlo who showcased two lines. Both Matlo and Cruz are no strangers to the fashion scene, and provided contrasting styles.
While Cruz used floaty, colorful fabric, Matlo’s collection was more about work to office and beyond.
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Day three was an eclectic mix of street style to haute couture.
Kicking it out with a beautiful set by Manuela the show progressed to show off trendy street style, high-end beach wear and finished with Duanne Jauns, whose use of men dressed as women created a new take on evening wear.
For most collections that were seen over days two and three the norm was brights, pastels followed by black, for palates. Shapes went from loose and flowy to tight and tailored, for both men and women.
Stay tuned for more…fashion…
Edmonton Fashion Week is dead…long live Western Canada Fashion Week
(editor’s note: Without checking…this may be our 4th longest headline. And if you’re new around here you don’t know that we. love. fashion.)
The U of A fashion design showcase
Story and Photos By Angela Ostafichuk
Western Canada Fashion Week kicked off with a bang this year, with a performance by the University of Alberta dance team.
U of A dance team kicks off the show
Showcasing young stylists, new designers, and the collection of last year’s winner in the emerging designer category – Sid Neigum- the night was filled with young talent and fresh style.
A piece from the Sid Neigum collection.
With performances from Cite Ballet and Firefly Theatre, WCFW’s first day was a sold out event.
Styling some Amanda Yeo.
Western Canada Fashion Week (Which is what we’re calling Edmonton Fashion Week from here on out. Until the next name change.) runs until Thursday, April 8. Everything is happening at the TransAlta Arts Barns.
