DESIGN MEETS FASHIONAt age 22, Toronto-based aspiring architect Advita Madan has already interned in Dubai and Bei-jing. With a love of emerging global trends in design and fashion, the Ryerson University archi-tectural science graduate spoke to SUITS about the link between architecture and style. Madan’s passion for her favourite structures spills over into the world of décor and the structured, architectur-al fashion trend. The fierce, fresh and surprisingly female face of a changing industry tells us about living La Dolce Advita, from skyscraper heels to skyscraper heights. BY FATIMA SYED

1) What originally inspired you to pursue architecture?“Growing up in Dubai, my interest in building design and construction was deeply affected by the changing landscape around me. In the span of two short decades, a small trading port in the midst of a barren desert was transformed into the utopian metropolis that it is today. My desire to serve societies across the globe by shaping their evolving environments is what drove me to pursue a career in architectural design immediately after high school.”

2) Recently, the architectural trend has made a comeback on the runway. We’re seeing geometric prints, structured dresses with broad shoulders and peplum tops. What are your thoughts on the link between the fash-ion and architechture?“Being a designer, it is really interesting how these two fields influence each other. The chang-ing trends in architecture have reflected back to the fashion industry for decades. Structures are starting to inspire fashion and personally, I believe that the link between architecture and fashion has never been stronger. Recently, mini-malistic design, which is strongly influenced by the Japanese, has begun to influence the fashion world, with Prada creating a line based on mini-malism. This could be seen as a way of breathing modernity into cultural references, which is how fashion and architecture are intertwined.”

3) Which Spring 2015 trends would you per-sonally recommend for a work-appropriate, chic look this season?

“I have been wearing a lot of patterns and prints lately, and find that they can look extremely chic at work. Bright colours and geometric patterns are definitely in this spring season. A printed shirt with a simple black pencil skirt could look great at the workplace, and could even be acces-sorised to be worn during a night out!”

4) How do you normally dress for a day on the job in your field?“You can never go wrong with black, white and grey at an architectural office. I usually put on a pair of black skinny jeans with a simple, coloured shirt and some ankle length boots. For accessories, I usually go with one large state-ment piece, such as a chunky bracelet or neck-lace.”

5) What are your top design tips for revamp-ing or renovating a small, urban space for Spring 2015? “I am a big fan of minimalism, and love to have a monochromatic setting with just a splash of colour to brighten things up. In the living room for example, having only white furniture is a good base to start with, which you can then accent using coloured cushions, a coloured rug or other accessories such as candles and potpourri. Spring is all about bright colours, so using bright greens, oranges and yellows will liven a space up.”

6) What are some of the challenges of being a young, emerging female architect? ”Some people believe that women who wish to start families cannot make it big in the architec-ture industry, simply because they will not be able to give their careers the time and commit-ment needed. Despite what people think, I per-sonally believe that women can definitely make it big, and balance their personal commitments as well. There are numerous women ‘starchi-tects’, such as Zaha Hadid and Kazuyo Sejima, who set a positive example for emerging female architects around the world.”

SUITS EDITORS BEAUTY PICKS FOR SPRING 2015

LORD & TAYLOR 16 Piece Beauty Book Eyeshadow Set

This 16-piece eye shadow set from Lord and Taylor is the perfect product for getting ready in the morn-ing. This long lasting, natural-beauty inspired shades, packaged in an easy snap case is something that every beauty-guru should have in their makeup bag! At the top of the palette, it has four matte eye shadows, followed by twelve glittery eye shadows under-neath. The four matte eye shadows are the perfect everyday-wear shades because they are so natural and can really bring out the colour of one’s eyes, especially brown eyes.

The glittery shades below range from green to brown all the way to the lighter shades like pink, purple and yellow; meaning there are endless possibilities for colour combinations These shades can really add a little something extra to your makeup look.

While dark lips continue to be a dominant and lasting trend in makeup, bright playful colours are making their way into the forefront of lip wear. My new favourite is Chanel’s Rouge Coco 412; a classic pink lipstick with hints of orange to usher in the summer. The trouble with bright lipsticks is deciding whether or not it’s appropriate in your average office workplace. As a result, ladies in the corporate world tend to stick with muted reds and beiges. While the 412 is vibrant, the orange hints don’t pop out too much, making it

workable with office wear. I love the softness of this lipstick, having strug-gled with the cracked desert floor feelings of highly matte lipsticks. It’s dewy and summery, but paired with the right outfit and low-key eye makeup, can still look polished. It also passes the “can it last through work?” test. There’s a mild shimmery finish; though I would’ve liked to see stronger hints of gold, the soft subtle-ty of the glitter keeps it the comfort zone of most makeup-wearing women. Pinks and oranges are a bold colour, reminiscent of the 80s, that are coming back this spring and summer. For anyone still hesitant, Chanel’s 412 is a great place to start.

CHANEL 412 lipstick

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REDKEN Control Addict 28 Extra High-Hold Hairspray

As a strong hold hairspray, this prod-uct from hair care line Redken promises locks which will stay in place for up to 24 hours. The hairspray also aims to guard styled hair from the effects of humidity, the horrors of flaky strands and visible residue left over from an intense spritzing session. According to Redken, the Spray-Strong Complex will leave locks under control, while the formula also claims to offer “brushability” with smooth, natural tresses. To use Control Addict 28, I spritzed the hairspray about 8-12 inches away from long locks after using a curling iron. Pros: For long-haired SUITS girls who are coveting well-coiffed locks for Spring 2015, Control Addict 28 luckily provides the powerful hold which it promises. From a quick morning spritz on freshly styled curls to an evening application to maintain a chic updo, this Redken spray will control stub-born, thick hair. With the ultimate SUITS Beauty Trial declaring whether a product can survive a fast-paced workday, Control Addict 28 should take beauty lovers from early morning to the late evening hours. Although a 24-hour hair-style may be ambitious, it’s clear that Red-ken’s Spray-Strong Complex is designed for the girl on the go. Cons: While the effective formula for long hair and the reliable strong hold of the spray are both beauty benefits, the intense scent may pose a challenge for the SUITS gal with a delicate nose. As for the brushability factor, my curled locks eventually became stiff and overly sculpted after an application of this hairspray. SUITS’ Take: For the Type A girl who craves a polished hairstyle which won’t budge during meetings or the social climber longing for curls which will last until the stroke of midnight at the company party, Control Addict 28 is a useful hair buy.

H&M: CHIFFON JUMPSUIT - $49.95

URBAN OUTFITTERS: STARING AT STARS FLORAL COLD SHOULDER TUNIC TOP - $59

MAC: CANDY YUM-YUM TINTED LIP GLASS - $18

H&M: WRAP SKIRT - $39.95

GUESS: JULIE FRINGE NECKLACE - $34

ALDO: BERASSI - $80

URBAN DECAY: NAKED FLUSHED - $35

ALDO: ADUSA - $80

MAC: POSEY CREMEBLEND BLUSH - $26

SPRING 2015 CATWALK REPORT

TOP “suit”-ABLE LOOKSFATIMA SYED

With Spring 2015 runway trends pointing toward classic pantsuits with sleek, updated tailoring, SUITS predicts a season marked by both a menswear inspired aesthetic and ladylike detail. This season’s suits are charming and feminine, while still emitting a signature “power suit” vibe sure to land you in the corner office. With statement lapels, bold buttons and nipped-in waists on the runway, expect suit jackets for spring to be both edgy and elegant. Bold solid shades of gleaming scarlet red, snowy white and basic white also made a splash with the season’s suiting trends. At DSquared2, the Canadi-an designer label’s love of vibrant shades and punchy hues was loud and clear. A tailored ruby red jacket with matching loose trousers brought a striking hint of colour to the runway. Naturally, the SUITS fashion-ista can switch the suggested sultry crop top for a flowing white blouse to embrace runway inspired style. At Christopher Kane, simplicity was in the air. The collection featured plenty of creamy hues, which

brought a luminous touch to everything from a strapless frock to a sheer blouse. Keeping with the theme, an off-white pantsuit featured a daring elongated neckline and striking metallic buttons. At Tom Ford, the moody dark tones of the collec-tion set the stage for minimalist spring style. With a defined waist, a classic fitted black blazer featured a chic double-breasted cut for a slim silhouette. From loose, slouchy trousers with a slight rebellious edge at DSquared2 to creamy pleated slim fit slacks at Christopher Kane, these updated pants are a trendy take on the severe business suit. For anyone who still believes that a classic pantsuit has to be conservative and lacking in flair, Spring 2015’s catwalk looks may prove you wrong.

MAD WOMAN: AD GIRL CHANTELLE ENNIS-CHAROO SHARES HER TIPS FOR

SUCCCESSFUL STYLE WITH SUITS

Anyone who watches AMC’S Mad Men is already familiar with the series’ signature 1960s-era vintage glamour and drama. Flash forward to 2015, and the rapid-fire world of digital advertising is home to long hours, hard work and easy elegance. As a rising advertising buyer for Toronto-based creative agency Isobar Canada, 23-year-old Chantelle En-nis-Charoo already knows this fact well. While she may have originally dreamed of becoming a journalist in high school, studying Communication Studies at York University led Ennis-Charoo to her cur-rent job at the agency. Two years after making her grand debut, she reflects on the journey which brought her into the creative studio. “Once I graduated, advertising was a booming industry and I was able to find a job quite quickly,” she says. As a modern advertising gal follow-ing the paths of seasoned influential tastemakers in their 30s and 40s, En-nis-Charoo is no Don Draper (or for that matter, Joan Holloway). Instead, she belongs to a new breed of savvy and styl-ish media professionals, as aware of the market as they are of their favourite designer trunk shows. So, what do you wear when you’ve officially landed the job of your dreams? “One of the things I love about my place of work is the openness we have for

For many young professional women, the decision of what to wear to the office sets the day in motion. At her casual creative workplace, Ennis-Cha-roo pairs long shirtdresses with dark opaque leggings, and has started to mix Spring 2015’s gingham prints into her wardrobe. On casual workdays, you’ll find her in dark high-waisted skinny denim in an indigo blue wash or a dark off-the-shoulder blouse with three-quarter sleeves.

She cites “comfy shoes” as foot-wear essentials, especially Ralph Lauren sandals for summer and knee-high flat boots by Michael Kors for the colder months. In advertising, the change of pace is quick, and so are the sudden wardrobe changes from a day at the desk to a company party. To switch her look into the after hours to attend business events, En-nis-Charoo adds statement jewelry, a tailored coat and her favourite black suede pumps. As for that perfect accessory, a positive attitude tends to complement her outfit on the job. “When you love your job, and are confident in your abilities, it exudes from you. Your 'good vibes' influence those around you,” she adds.

BCBG: MARCUS CONTRAST TUXEDO JACKET - $225

BANANA REPUBLIC: DOT JACQUARD MINI SKIRT - $124

CLUB MONACO: BETIA TWEED PANT - $99

STEVE MADDEN: PROTO - $99.95

H&M: CHIFFON BLOUSE - $34.95

MAC: (GEL) FROST - $19

MAC: (MATTE) STUNNER - $19

Hana Sha� interviews up and coming fashion designer Yara Kamal on creativity, inspiration and looks into her new line Scribbles

Imagination. Vibrancy. Heart. These words embody fashion designs by Yara Kamal. Childlike doodles and quirky prints on quintes-sentially feminine silhouettes- miniature waists, with straight A-line legs- is the core of her designs. For Kamal, beautiful clothing isn’t just for fancy dinners or extravagant events, but for everyday wear that is most stylish, practical, and combining both timeless elegance with contem-porary creativity. “When it comes to design, it’s all about what feeds your soul,” says Kamal. Nature, people watching, and children are also main inspirations for Kamal. She is always looking for people who have di�erent outlooks on life that challenge and enrich her own. Juxtaposing classic cuts on creative prints de�nes Kamal’s latest collection Scribbles.

“I think the line of professional and casual is getting blurred these days.” You could say Kamal’s love for fash-ion is hereditary. Inspired by her grand-mother, a fashion designer living in Jordan, Kamal has been immersed in the world of arts and style since she was just a kid. “I used to love helping her pick up needles from the �oor in her studio, play with fabrics and just watch her make di�erent things,” says Kamal. “And, until today she still does what she’s passionate about.” Everything about Yara Kamal’s personal style and fashion line show that she too has an immense passion for what she does, and a love for all things di�erent and unconventional. From the pink and black smiley face doodles covering the back of a sleeveless cropped turtleneck , to a Minecraft inspired dress complete with a grid print reminiscent of the pixelated video game, it’s clear that her imagination is in her work, as well as her refusal to conform.

The young up and coming designer, graduating this year from Ryerson University’s Fashion Communication program, has created an entire line inspired by the drawings of children. “I would consider myself more as a free creative individual rather than a fashion designer,” says Kamal, “my favorite part is seeing a vision come to life.” Still, despite taking inspiration from the imagination of children, the line is still professional with clean cut edges, and smooth silhouettes. It breaks the mold, without making the clothes completely un-wearable for your typical working woman. “I have noticed that the topic of what someone is wearing is always a popular topic in the o�ce,” says Kamal. “An out�t that is a bit di�erent can brighten an employees day and this has been seen more in the present years, moving forward from just a plain dress shirt, blazer and skirt or the popular suit.”

“Don’t succumb to what the fashion indus-try tells you to be,” says Kamal, re�ecting on the advice that she would give to aspiring fashion designers. “Fashion can either free you or imprison you and it’s up to you to choose what you will innovate and introduce to the world, so create what feels good to you and don’t be scared to be di�erent.” Looking at the innovative vitality of Kamal’s designs is proof that the fashion industry certainly has imprisoned her. From Kamal’s personal style of chunky sweaters and autumn-inspired layering, to her Scribbles fashion line with its combi-nation of childish dreams and polished ensembles, it’s obvious that every project Kamal applies herself to is done with heart.

Photography: Yara KamalHair: Anahita Loghmanifar Makeup: Elena DimovaModel: Lauren Quinn

Photography: Jude Kamal

SPRING 2015 TOP TREND:

gorgeous gingham

On the Spring 2015 runways, the look of quaint, feminine gingham quickly became a rising trend for the season ahead. Whether it was sent down the catwalk in girlish pastel shades or made a sleek monochromatic statement in classic black an white, the rustic checkered pattern is set to become must-have for city sidewalks. No longer restricted to those idyllic days at the cottage, expect to see sweet, striking gingham everywhere this spring. At Altuzarra, this 1960s influenced trend made a splash on light, airy dresses and sophisticated skirt suits. Paris-born and New York City-based designer Joseph Altuzarra featured classic gingham blouses in shades of blue and red. Simplistic frocks with vintage inspired blue and white checks were a statement look, as were the fierce gingham skirts with matching blazers. While you may believe that gingham is a mainstay for country weekends, upcoming spring trends call for the cotton fabric and classic pattern to make their way into daytimelooks. For the daring SUITS girl, this can mean a summery skirt suit crafted out of this pattern du jour, or simply a playful gingham topper worn with dark denim for casual Friday. As it naturally takes at least three strikes to create a trend, Altuzarra wasn’t the only designer who showcased gorgeous gingham for Spring 2015. At Diane von Furstenberg, the word “gingham” meant trendy black and white checks which brought urban glamour to mind. From a flirty, flowing dress with the signature DVF silhouette and chic V-neckline to a short and strappy empire waist frock, the gingham look was clearly at home. At Oscar de la Renta, the gingham on display was definitely a world away from the retro, picnic blanket-esque frocks which bring carefree childhood days to mind. Although the designer died in October 2014 at age 82, his final runway collection captured de la Renta’s aesthetic and love of luxurious, ladylike designs. From long, open-collar jackets in pale pink

SUITS feature’s editor Fatima Syed sees gingham patterns making their way out of the 60s and into Spring 2015 fashions. Suiting up in gingham is being spotted all over the runway, hinting at a new workplace fashion hit.

and white gingham to a matching black and white checkered crop top and skirt, the trend was in full force. For Spring 2015 looks off the runway, gingham and its close cousin, plaid, are set to make a splash in the fabric world. David Shimoni, owner of the downtown Toronto fabric and textiles store King Textiles, described gingham as “another trend which will come back every decade or so, but would never really be out of style.” At King Textiles, the demand for the patterned fabric has increased this season. “Being around designers, I know they're always looking for what's next to be in, and trying to stay ahead. It seems gingham and plaids sold well in the last year, but as always it changes,” Shimoni said. While the season’s gingham crop tops and short, floaty skirts may be better left for warm Saturday afternoons, the SUITS fashionista can definitely embrace this trend for the office. Update your classic white blouse with a demure gingham pencil skirt, in order to instantly add texture and pattern to a traditional nine-to-five look. If you’re heading out for cocktails after work, the gingham pencil skirt also offers a fresh, springtime vibe, for a subtle hint of party spirit without a dizzying loud print or garish, neon colours. Whether your day involves meeting clients or attending after work events, gingham can easily be accessorized with dainty silver jewellery or a statement necklace. For fashionistas who prefer statement outerwear, try trading in your classic beige trench coat for an eye-catching gingham alternative. After all, Spring 2015 is not a season to fear pattern- especially not the new cool, crisp and covetable gingham. We already know that the bold SUITS girl is not afraid of anything- so just how intimidating can an innocent, candy-coloured print really be?

CREATINGA WORK-FRIENDLY WARDROBE

(on a budget)

Did you just score a new job, but don’t have enough money in the bank for profeessional attire? Are you a recent university graduate and don’t have the funds to be buying a whole new set of clothes? Look no further, Suit’s is here to help! It’s surprisingly easy to create a basic wardrobe with just a few key pieces. You can mix and match pieces in your closet without having to feel any outfit deja vu.

BASIC TIPS

1. Try using neutral colours as your base: black, grey, navy or tans. These colours always go together, so you’ll never have to worry about not matching.

2. Pay a little more for those items that you are going to wear regularly – especially shoes and bags.

3. Use accessories to switch up your look. Once you understand the fundamentals of dressing for work, accessories like scarves or jewelry can add more colour and variety to your wardrobe.

4. When you find a piece you love that fits you well, buy multiple versions of it in different colours.

5. Load up on basics, go easy on the patterns and indulge in one showstopper for special occasions like office parties or networkng opportunities.

SOME BASICS WE RECOMMEND:• A black tank • 2 short-sleeve t-shirts (white and black)• 2 long-sleeve t-shirts (white and black)• White fitted button down• Black turtleneck • Crewneck sweater • Cardigan • Pair of jeans • Khakis • Black pants • Denim jacket (Should be a snug fit!)

OUR FAVOURITE WORK STAPLES• Wool skirt (A-Line is extra flattering!)• Black suit • Pinstriped oxford shirt • Black dress • Silk blouse (Jewel tone’s are a must.) • Gray trousers • Fitted jacket • Camisole

Emma Dixon