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The Bay is a good source for spring’s oversized accessories.
Big bangles
The Bay’s current slogan for spring, Accessorize Like You Mean It, sums up the seasonal trends nicely. Simple, easy-wearing separates (think billowy tunic tops, minimalist sundresses and cropped pants) are the backdrop to bold, oversized accessories. Just snag some borderline silly-huge sunglasses in an eye-popping hue, a large purse, a medley of chunky bangles and you’re pretty much set. Fashion devotees will also swoon over all the fab wedge-heeled sandals and wide hair scarves in pretty retro patterns.
Fun with fabric
Do-it-yourself divas are wise to scoot over to their local Fabricland, www.fabricland.ca, this week and snag deals during the store’s sale in honour of its 39th anniversary. Expect to find deep discounts on all kinds of fabrics, thread, notions, patterns and trims, as well as 40 per cent off select dressmaker’s shears, and cute storage containers priced to move. At these crazy-low prices, scoop up a few extra metres of fabric and whip up a pretty sundress or funky cushions to toast the new season. Flip through the pattern catalogues for inspiration; FF recommends Simplicity’s Built By You series. designforwindfall.ca, or call Tammy Desmond at 416-703-8435. For wallet-friendly period ensembles, visit Vintage Bride, 586 Markham St., 416-530-0025, or Gadabout, 1300 Queen St. E. in Leslieville, 416-463-1254.
Speakeasy style
Toronto’s big-hearted stylistas are gearing up for this year’s Buy Design event, a 1920s themed fundraiser for Windfall Clothing Service taking place at the Distillery District on April 21. The flapper-era shindig — featuring a speakeasy bar, jazz band, a live auction of donated fashion goodies, ballroom dancing and a burlesque show —benefits Windfall, a local charity that provides new clothing to social service agencies that mainly assist women and children in need. Tickets for this fab fête are $75 in advance online or at various retailers or $80 at the door. For more details, visit www.buydesignforwindfall.ca, or call Tammy Desmond at 416-703-8435. For wallet-friendly period ensembles, visit Vintage Bride, 586 Markham St., 416-530-0025, or Gadabout, 1300 Queen St. E. in Leslieville, 416-463-1254
