Vancouver may be known for it’s laid-back style, and Lululemon Athletica is certainly no exception. They may be charged for fashion crimes involving the use of yoga gear outside the studio (Groove pants in the office, oh my!), but their concept store, The Lab, is changing the way that we rock our athletic wear. As a design studio and retail space all in one, The Lab offers up street-friendly pieces that every fashion fiend can get behind. Each item is created in-house, and the logos are distinguished by a discreet version of the Lululemon logo. On my wishlist? A pair of Lululemon Lab harems, please!
The Lululemon Lab is located at 511 West Broadway, Vancouver.

1. I am still dreaming about these harem pants ($108) – super comfy, and super chic for the street.
2. May Globus, Vancouver City Editor of Sweetspot.ca, rocks out a pair of wicked Lululemon harems.
3, 4, 5. The Ladies of Lululemon Lab: Lauren, Kristina and Elim.
6. The design studio at the Lululemon Lab.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

The booze was flowing and the spirits were high at Toronto’s House of Vintage on Thursday night. Whatever the cause for celebration (was it the store’s new sign, the unbearably hot weather, or just cuz?), it attracted Queen West’s finest, and all in their best vintage duds. After closing his first store at Queen and Spadina, owner Dennis Adamidis re-opened his impeccable vintage boutique in Parkdale. The spacious store is beautifully stocked with designer pieces (I love the selection of YSL sunglasses) alongside classic vintage and a great selection of accessories. Hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures at House of Vintage is a delight. Partying there? Divine.

Visit House of Vintage at 1239 Queen Street West in Toronto.
Photos by Joel di Giacomo.

By: Caitlin Agnew, Toronto

Sometimes the rubber flip-flops just won’t cut it. One of my besties has vowed to “never wear rubber flip-flops in public” (did I mention that she happens to also be a shoe buyer?). And she certainly has a point: when it comes time for fun in the sun, it’s always nice to have a few different options for summertime sandals. This year’s top looks combine different textures, architectural shapes, embellishment, and luxe detailing. The great thing about picking up a pair right now is that summer markdowns are finally hitting the stores. Now if only the sun could stick around for little while longer….

1. An all-around flat sandal is a practical addition to your footwear collection. The elastic stretch material on these babies are super comfy and the style is classic. Michael Kors Pressley Toe Ring Sandal ($120), available at Michael Kors Boutiques nationwide and Browns Shoes.
2. The cutout sandal is the perfect modern touch for any summertime ensemble. Deena & Ozzy Canvas Cutout Sandal ($38), from Urban Outfitters.
3. Wedges are the “it” shoe of the year. Jeffrey Campbell Black Ninja Wedge ($185), available online at Oak NYC.
4. A beautifully constructed sandal is the ultimate summer essential. I am madly in love with these clog-style, leather wrapped wooden heels. Fluevog Rahab Faiths ($219). Available at John Fluevog stores nationwide.
5. If you must go the flip-flop route, choose a pair that is made out of different materials or added embellishment. This will elevate your look, and more appropriate for everyday wear. Bravo Browns Leather Flip-Flops ($54), at Browns Shoes.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

Designer collaborations are a great way to breathe some extra fire into an already hot label. This year, Banana Republic embarked on its first-ever collaboration with jewellery designer Chan Luu to create a collection of limited edition bracelets. Done in Luu’s signature wrap style, the bracelets are made of custom-dyed thread or leather paired with semi-precious stones, gold or sterling silver and range in price from $118 to $275.

Luu’s designs have been seen all over Hollywood’s most stylish starlets, including Nicole Richie, Megan Fox, and Lady Gaga. They’re perfect for everyday wear and, with the wide range of colours and styles, look great layered in different combinations.

The Limited Edition Chan Luu Jewellery Collection is available August 10 at the following Canadian Banana Republic locations:

Toronto Eaton Centre
80 Bloor Street West in Toronto
777 Ste-Catherine Street West in Montreal

By: Caitlin Agnew, Toronto

For me, the idea of “going up to the cabin” has always been a little nerve-wracking. Call me high-maintenance, but a weekend getaway that lacks running water or a shower is just unbearable. While some people see camping as the perfect vacation from a proper wardrobe (hello, sweatpants!), I see it as prime time to sport my stylin’ summer duds. Can’t we all just live in a world where glamping is the weekend norm?
My glamping essentials:

1. Channel your inner Marilyn Monroe with super-glam high-waisted swimwear by Vancouver’s own Cuché Bikinis ($175), available in Vancouver at Oliver & Lilly’s and Dream and in Toronto at Almost Naked. Also buy online.
2. Rompers are super comfy and so easy to wear – it’s the perfect camp basic. American Apparel Romper ($28).
3. A nylon track jacket is a great throw on piece for warming up by the campfire. Joe Fresh Nylon Jacket ($39), available at Superstore.
4. Jelly flip-flops are fun and functional. Melissa flat sandals ($45), available at Gravity Pope.
5. Regardless of where I am, I always make sure to take care of my skin. The Consonant Body Jet Set Kit ($40) comes in a super convenient package. Available at Beautymark and The Bay stores across Canada.
6. Mini beauty kits are great for when you’re on the go. Check out Sephora’s selection of Beauty Minis. My fave is the  Bare Escentuals Mineral Foundation with SPF 15 ($25).

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver