Weekly Couture

With the recent media buzz surrounding the harsh and harmful environmental realities of today, it was no surprise that this summer would be dedicated to sun protection, sun protection, and…you guessed it – more sun protection. Thanks to the depleted ozone layer, our skin is at the highest risk it has ever been for UV exposure and adverse effects that come along with it. Among other things, increased sun exposure can lead to blistering sunburns, early signs of aging (imagine wrinkles at 25!), and as we all know, skin cancer.

What: Augustina (5 Old York Lane) has set up a temporary, four-week, clearance location. Expect charming sundresses, flats, cashmere sweaters, and bikinis.

Why: You just might find some great pieces by Alex Woo, Nieves Lavi, Gryson, Anna Corinna, Eberjey, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, Hanky Panky, and Lauren Merkin.

When: Open now until June 11, 2007.

Where: 1162 Yonge Street, Toronto. For more information, call 416-922-4248.

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What: A boutique grocery store carrying specialty items like imported cheeses, deli goods, premium fresh meat and fish, baked goods, and delicious prepared foods.

Why: Check out their array of organic grocery items from around the world. Or, stop by their in-house café and order a cup of organic or fair trade coffee alongside a pastry or a slice of cake.

Where: Their new downtown store is located at 69 Spadina Avenue, Toronto.

What: Don’t miss the early private sale at Zola for VIP customers!

Why: You’ll save 30% off most pairs of shoes in the store (excluding new arrivals). Plus, you’ll get the first pick of the crop before anyone else gets their grubby little hands on them.

When: From now until May 31, 2007.

Where: 1726 Avenue Road, Toronto. To receive a special offer, go to Zola’s website to print out the sale invitation.

What: An evening of high art, culture and cocktails. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live music, gift bags, and an art gallery featuring fashion illustrations and paintings by acclaimed Canadian artist Frederick Watson, works from the private collection of fashion photographer Arline Malakian, and a 7-panel mural by Israeli Canadian artist Dubie Arie.

Why: The evening was in celebration of the launch of SASSON Magazine’s 2007 edition and dedicated to creating awareness of the impending destruction of the 2,500-year-old historic ruins of the Parsgard. (The ruins include archaeological treasures from the time of King Cyrus the Great.)

-compiled by Kathleen Bushie

Who: Avon.

What: With summer just around the corner, the notion of taking time off work to travel becomes increasingly enticing. But what’s a girl to do to prevent her lipsticks and cream shadows from melting and oozing all over her cosmetic case during travel? Thanks to Avon, there’s no need to worry – they’ve just released a brand new insulated cosmetic bag that comes with its very own ice pack, which can be easily inserted into a side pocket to keep contents cool for hours.