Summer Cleaning

By kdelesalle | Published: June 15, 2011

What: Womens Boyfriend Slouch Tank and Mens Classic Crew

Why: Because we need room for new inventory

Where: Buy online, or if you’re local, we can drop off

Cost: The all-time low of $15!!

Ladies – If your wardrobe is still missing it’s key staple – that perfect, slouchy tank, keep on reading.

Super soft and lightweight, in our Vintage Washed Cotton, with or without logo. This style is ideal for backyard BBQ’s, hanging poolside, or layered if you want to take it for a night on the town. Our slouch tank is a favourite of the Monster Energy female pro athletes, catch them wearing it at the X-Games this July!!

Gentlemen – We know sometimes you need a little push in the right direction when it comes to a flattering tee. Consider this your push! Our Mens Classic Crew utilizes our premium cotton blend. Soft and stretchy to the touch, without being too thin. A slightly more fitted tee, consider a size up if you like a baggier look. This fit is girlfriend approved, or if you’re single…you won’t be for long once you get into your HitSingle!

At $15 a pop, you really can’t go wrong, everyone loves to have more than one “go to” t-shirt.

Get ‘em while they’re hot!

Lots of sizes avail, contact us directly or check out our link for Marketplace to purchase.

Black Womens Boyfriend Style Tank Top – Shirts & Tops – Facebook

HitSingles Apparel Mens Classic Crewneck Tshirts in Heather Light Gre – Shirts & Tops – Facebook

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Leanne McLoughlin: Rising Stylist at Wasted Youth Show

By vreeve | Published: June 9, 2011

Just moments after our unfortunate 4-zip loss to the Bruins, Kris and I raced to the John Casablancas Institute Class #132 Grad Fashion Show at Heritage Hall on Main Street last night.

Titled “Wasted Youth” the show’s tagline on their facebook page is:“When I Die Bury Me in the Clothes Of My Youth”.

Ummm YE-AH, DO-IT!

We will be dead honest, we went because we wanted to see our friend’s little sister Leanne McLoughlin who was styling a set in the show. We were pleasantly surprised to get there and find out that not only did she kill the outfits, she did all the music, and got the stylist credit for a photo on the program’s back cover page. Wasted Youth, this lady isn’t.

Jason Hargrove photo

The show aimed to communicate a fresh and effective take on destruction; said to be inspired by “current events, work issues, politics, natural disasters and the anticipation of doomsday.“ By synching a series of mediums that included a heavy multilayered electronic beats-indie music soundtrack; with well timed lighting further complimented bv kitchy décor AND a full feature video with great cinematography and footage running on the back 15” X 15” wall, there was certainly a lot to take in alongside the outfits.

What we enjoyed was the show started by coaxing its audience into examining the deeper frustrated, and rebellious energy of youth with models emerging from darkness in provocative, edgy outfits, and slicked hair with pale make up + heavy accents. But as the show progressed and climaxed the audience welcomed the finish of “rebuild, rebirth” and……relax with lighter, airy tones to the clothing, music and lighting.

Jason Hargrove photo

While the show featured 8 stylists and 3 designers presenting 4-8 looks each, Leanne specifically teamed up with Aritzia (her current employer) and Oak +Fort to present 6 very carefully selected style stories. Each time a model came out wearing an outfit it was easy to pick the occasion she was dressing for:

“Coachella Roadtrip”

“Best Friend’s Birthday Party at Keefer Pool”

“Low Key at the Library”

Jason Hargrove photo

What we liked the most about Leanne’s looks was her use of accessories: belts, bags and amazing footwear to complete realistic, ready to wear looks. While overall the show was well executed, Leanne REALLY nailed it and stood out from her contemporaries. In a sea of fashion hopefuls, this girl is starting out small, making her mark and just waiting to be discovered. You heard it here first.

We have to say of all the ways to spend the evening after a devastating Canucks loss, Wasted Youth was not a waste of time and Leanne McLaughlin will certainly be a lady to watch in the next coming years.

For more information on Leanne McLaughlin, follow her blog at: catchManic

She’s graduated and ready to go! If you have work for her, feel free to email her at leannemc89@gmail.com

Wasted Youth Facebook Page

Next week, HitSingles hits Las Vegas. Don’t miss it. Don’t even.

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She Made it Home in One Piece

By kdelesalle | Published: June 1, 2011

Our light in spirit and fun at heart correspondent, Lo LaPuma Balsor, is fresh back from Sasquatch! and brimming over with stories and experiences to regale us with.

For a little background info on Sasquatch! and Lo take a quick skim of last weeks blog.

zatsrr.jpg

The calm before the storm...The Gorge

The Pilgrimage in

Lo, before we get into all the amazing shows you attended, set the scene for us. How was the build up for Sasquatch!, the entry line up, the excitement of the crowd before the festival kicked into full gear?

LaPuma: Pinch me, am I seriously back already?? Seems like just yesterday I was handing out HitSingles Tanks to our young, excited, musically inclined Wolfpack. Coming from an event background I have to say Live Nation put on an extremely well-organized festival, from VIP camping, to crowd control, to efficient ticket management, to motion sensor activated paper towels and running water at the Honey Bucket stations. It was the 10-year anniversary and event organizers totally nailed it and probably did it with their eyes closed. Shout out to Live Nation and contributors for sure! PS, are you hiring?

We set up camp behind the Gorge with thousands of others in converted pastures; home base for the rowdies, rockers, hippies and herbal entrepreneurs. First order of business for LaPuma on Friday was to get my bearings before dark and find out where they sold coffee in the morning. From there I happened upon a beautifully decorated tent run by a hippie couple selling what would turn out to be the most delicious brownies I’ve ever tasted. Off to a great start….

The storm...Sasquatch! in full swing

Was this your first stint at Sasquatch!? Are you already counting down the days until next year?

LaPuma: My first stint at Sasquatch and yes I’ll definitely go back someday! Festival-ing should be a verb. Every day at a music festival feels a lot like going off to war (more Paintball-y, less Iraq) Getting supplies ready, planning for weather, group check points, the buddy system, the old adages of ‘never leave a man behind’, and ‘last known whereabouts’ situations. Thousands of people are just trying to stick with their friends which isn’t always easy for a bunch of data plan-less Canadians, eh. Our friends the Cobra Athletic Social Squad also had uniforms and a massive flag as a landmark at their camp, where after-partying and listening to the beats we just heard live each night was an awesome way to stretch the night out into, well, day again.

"Oh, Canada"

The vast campground that is Sasquatch!

Checking out the festival fashion scene is always entertaining and inspiring. People from all walks of life, but usually there are a few trends that come out blazing.  What were the most prominent?

LaPuma: We had one eye on the sky for weather and one eye checking out the crazy costumes at all times. Neon mayhem, feathers in hair, body paint, one-piece jumpers, high waistlines and floral denim shorts were everywhere (remember the old rose printed denim shorts you were so proud of? They’re Baaa-ack!) That, plus the one-hit-wonder trucker hats, had me wishing I kept every piece of clothing I ever owned from the 80′s. Looks like the thrift store junkies get the last laugh because these twenty-somethings were rocking our old 80′s stuff so hard and so well I felt like pulling out the photo album, pointing out a shot of me rocking a side pony and lightning bolt print off-shoulder sweater and saying “See! I used to wear that stuff too!” This comment would however scream my Puma status from the tent-tops so I decided to keep this myself. I am just stoked that what’s old is new again. It feels good, it’s fun, and it’s sustainable. Geek Chic meets Pin-up meets Punky Brewster, all while wearing those classically cheap 80′s neon shades.

Junior Wolfpack, nice tanks!

A perfect "festival-ing" friend, complete with H2O and Walkie-Talkie!

Nothing beats a Head Dress in the Pacific Northwest!!

Who were your favourite acts to see live? We are sure you had your “must see” list, but usually there is that sleeper band, that knocks it out of the park when no one’s expecting it. Give us the highlights!

LaPuma: After being wooed by floating balloons at sunset by Matt and Kim and growing a major girl crush on drummer/party pumper/crowd surfing Kim Schifino, a highlight was absolutely seeing Rodrigo y Gabriela on the main stage – this adorable spanish, guitar slapping duo literally made it rain, and my Woodstock dreams were answered as we salsa danced under the fat droplets to fan fave Hanuman.

Robyn isn’t the same Robyn we once knew, that’s for sure! But once we realized it was a harder, edgier, more real version of our old friend I really appreciated her and her new sound –  a harder La Roux (and an amazing short do). So, I’m happy to report that she’s still going strong and really rocked out for us Squatchies.

RATATAT was a really new sound for me personally and their 80′s inspired dance hall elecronica got the crowd super hyper and had me nostalgic for the the Super Mario Brother’s soundtrack. Their cooky slideshow had us laughing with weirdness. Weird is in, normal is boring.

The Major Laser show in the DJ tent was a huge party on the last night, a great way to burn off every last ounce of energy that I had! I would definitely pay to go and see them again if they come to Vancouver.

How was the crowd and overall vibe? One of our favourite festival experiences is meeting new people, and sharing a love of the music, it creates an instant bond.

LaPuma: Absolutely! Music is love, Mon. Our crew of ladies (and some honorary gents) was amazing and the music appreciation in the whole venue was tangible, happy and keen. Go and be at peace with fellow music gurus. You have to make some tough show choices and for many it’s like choosing between two children: Major Laser or Wilco? City and Color or Cold War Kids? (Winners: Major Laser KILLED it and Cold War Kids’ “Hospital” was a lyrical festival highlight for me for sure.) With the Gorge easily being the most beautiful music venue in North America it’s a no brainer to grab a sleeping bag, the schedule, and your best friends to hit up this party. For music loving brides I would even recommend VIP camping or an RV situation for a Stagette destination.

LaPuma and her Crew

While we can expect Lo to be in post festival depression for the next week or two, it sounds like it was the experience of a lifetime. A new found love of music festivals and all they have to offer, next level friendships, musical masterpieces, and all around good vibes. If we’re lucky, just maybe we’ll see LaPuma and the Wolfpack headlining the main stage next year!!

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Sasquatch! We’ve found you……….

By vreeve | Published: May 19, 2011

It’s Victoria Day weekend here in Canada and Memorial Day weekend next in the USA. If you’re headed to Sasquatch! it means 2 things:

1. You aren’t working that much until the end of the month.

2. You’re in for the music festival of your life.

Sasquatch! Music Festival doesn’t have an exclamation in its name for nothing. Held annually at the Gorge Amphitheatre in George, Washington, we’re talking about the country’s most epic outdoor venue possible. As founder Adam Zacks has quoted in the past “The next closest thing would be transporting a main stage into the Grand Canyon.”

As the festival celebrates its 10th Anniversary, this year promises nothing short of epic enlightenment with a dream 4 day line up of indie and alternative rock bands, hip hop and comedy acts.

Check out: sasquatchmusicfestival.blogspot.com

With 4 outdoor stages: Sasquatch! Main Stage, Bigfoot Stage, Rumpus Room, & Yeti Stage take the time to really know the line-up schedule because without question you are going to have to compromise needs and wants and prioritize by:

1. Absolute Must See – main reason for festival pilgrimage

2. Must See – will not miss under any circumstances

3. Should See – maybe I’ll have to leave early or arrive late due to schedule conflicts

4. Nice to See –watch on Youtube when I get home.

While full weekend passes went on sale in November, remaining passes and single day tickets sold out within four days of releasing their line up in mid February.

Our favourites to see are:

Friday: Foo Fighters

Saturday: Death Cab For Cutie, Bright Eyes, Robyn, Wolf Parade, Local Natives, Sleigh Bells, K-os.

Sunday: Modest Mouse, The Flaming Lips, Ratatat, City and Colour, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, Cold War Kids, Sam Roberts, Yeasayer, Beachhouse.

Monday: Wilco, Chromeo, Deerhunter, Major Lazer, Best Coast, Bonobo, Surfer Blood.

Don’t have a ticket and caught a bad case of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Relax and follow our tweets all weekend long: HitSingles

We were lucky to have our Toronto correspondent DeeRuby tweet live for us at Coachella, and again we strike good fortune with Lo Balsor tweeting live with the same festival style details that made our Coachella coverage so special.

Who is she: Laura Balsor better know as Lo

Sex: Female

Age: 29

Hometown: Vancouver, British Columbia

Occupation: Telecommunications Community Liason and Certified Yoga Instructor

Likes: Travelling, Music, Friends, Sports and Deep Thinking

Status: Single

Look for Lo travelling in a wolf pack of mega babes. While she may be approaching cougar status, she still is a carefree puma. Feel free to say hi because her charismatic personality, intelligent charm and cosmopolitan hippy vibe is known for making stranger’s days all the time.

This was our favourite photo from Sasquatch 2010, tweet us your instagrams.

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Here Comes The Sun

By kdelesalle | Published: May 5, 2011

Coachella – wrapped up. Vancouver summer – unravelling….almost. As of late some fairly dodgy weather patterns have been rolling through our fair city. We can guarantee that the first “real” summer day (not raining and somewhat warm-ish) will unleash the tank tops, flip-flops and drop-tops. It always happens around this time of year, after month upon month of grey skies, Vancouverites are chomping at the bit and more than ready to rejoice in our precious long days, bbq’s and outdoor concert season. It is a small window in our calendar, so best to be prepared, buy tickets early, and countdown the days!!

So far, Vancouver is hosting an amazing line-up of acts. Just when we thought we were satisfied, the list started growing again. Our favourite venue of choice, by far, is Deer Lake Park in Burnaby, a 20 minute drive from downtown, and entirely worth it. Before the show, sip on a thoughtfully mixed cocktail at the Hart House, and after you’ve worked up a sweat dancing to your favourite tunes, take a dip in the lake.

This summer Deer Lake Park is playing host to: The Black Keys, Kid Cudi, The Tragically Hip, and the Burnaby Blues Festival

Welcome to Deer Lake Park Concert Series – Burnaby, BC

Don’t hold your breath, The Black Keys has long been sold out. We’ll send a postcard.

As for the Blues Fest, while it’s not at the top of our list, after reading LIFE, by the legendary Keith Richards, we may just be onboard.

Another stellar site is Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park. Surrounded by trees and minutes from the seawall, you will be hard-pressed to critique this locale. So far, only 2 concerts are planned: Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, with Black Joe Lewis and the Honey Bears. If you missed them at Coachella, here’s your second chance!

2011 CONCERTS AT MALKIN BOWL: Concerts In The Park, Vancouver, BC

Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings

Sam Roberts is up next. A solid Canadian performer, with an extensive touring history. This guy knows the drill, no surprises, and everyone walks away happy.

Sam Roberts Band

Keep in mind, it’s still early, and this is just the start. Many more weekends to be filled at these two fantastic outdoor venues, just remember to cross your fingers and pray for sunshine!!

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Online Shopping Binge!

By vreeve | Published: April 28, 2011

image courtesy of "The Shopaholic"

Definition:

a. a period of unrestrained, immoderate self-indulgence.

b. to engage in excessive or uncontrolled indulgence.

Uh yup, sounds about right with the new subscription-only designer sale event websites that are bombarding us with irresistible deals every morning.

I didn’t realize how bad it was until I actually caught myself explaining to a friend my frustration as I made a purchase yesterday morning.  “Hannah, I was like frantically refreshing, refreshing, refreshing to get a size small Cynthia Vincent dress instead of a medium. I was put on the wait list! All the small’s were in member’s carts!”

Sound familiar? I mean it was a pretty sweet victory, when I scored the beautiful printed silk ensemble for $129 instead of it’s $295 regular price tag.

We’re thinking out with the mid calf skirts that only really look good on 5″10 models with lanky limbs and a 23″ waist – THIS could just be the strongest Spring trend this year.

Imagine my surprise this morning, when I got an invitation from Century 21 to join their online subscription only exclusive designer sale. I nearly dropped my coffee. I was thinking I would have to start planning an annual pilgrimage to the famed store on the corner of Cortlandt and Trinity in NYC.

If you’re over the household and restaurant deals advertised on GroupOn and LivingSocial – this is it. We’re not here to identify a social phenomenon that is sweeping the country and causing people to go into debt crisis. We aren’t here to talk about all the bulimic shopping that’s going on with buyers on websites that offer free return shipping.  These are the t0p 5 sites to keep the deals a coming.

Gilt Groupe

Goes on sale every morning at 9 am PST. Ships only within USA. If you are lucky enough to live along the border like we do here in Vancouver, then use your Platinum Visa cards – they work for purchase even though your billing address doesn’t match your shipping address. CLUTCH.

Hautelook

My lovely little first love. This was the first site I every subscribed to. Great array of brands. Send the subscription invitation to your friends and receive a $10 credit once they make their first purchases. If you are a popular girl or guy and your friends have not caught on yet – you could be in for a serious credit on your next purchase.

Century 21

If you haven’t been to this fashion hall of fame, then yearn no more. No more battling of the lines or doing the lap through the changeroom line ups because you have 40 items, but they only allow 8 to a change room. Trust me it’s stressful. It means you have to leave all your other hidden gems in the change room lobby storage area while you try on clothes in rounds.  Chances are you’ve been scouring the stores for hours and you’re freaked out that some will mistakenly take your basket.  C21′s logo is “Fashion Worth Fighting For!” we are in complete agreement, just don’t lose your internet signal.

Jetsetter

Okay it’s not fashion, it’s travel. It’s luxury accommodations at it’s best- 4-7 stars at 40- 70% off. We found that you can still search by country even if the deal isn’t promoted on the homepage – there are A LOT of deals that were advertised last month but are still open for the next 5 months. It just takes a little bit of saavy searching.

If you have any noteworthy sites not covered here that deserve an honourable mention – we want to know about them. Have a great weekend!

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Coachella Wrap-Up

By kdelesalle | Published: April 18, 2011

Our trusty correspondent DeeRuby made it through Coachella…for her 5th time….so she had a solid idea of what she was in for. We’ve broken it down into 4 categories for review: MUSIC. FASHION. VIBE. CELEB SPOTTING. and none of them disappoint. So long Coachella, 364 days until we meet again!

MUSIC.

The crowd at Cee Lo was massive, he was so late he only had 20 minutes to play before Lauryn Hilll comes on. His band is all girls though! Miss Lauryn Hill – what is there is say. She is a classic. Everything is everything. Fugee-la.

Saturday was 40 degrees – the hottest day of the year so far in Indio. Erykah Badu came on stage in a beautiful sheer black and gold embellished maxi and sun hat. As the set went on, and on and on and on (haha get it?) she too was feeling the affects of the heat and left the stage in a tank and green khaki overalls that were hiding beneath. She played all of her classics that we loved to hear.

On Sunday Duran Duran brought down the house. They covered Gaga’s Poker Face which was pretty awesome. We were very close to the front of the stage, once their set finished the crowd started to get frightening, people pushing to get to the front for the best view of The Strokes. Julian Casablancas came by at the gate to take in Duran Duran from the media area and Nick Valensi was at the side of the stage with his little boy propped on his shoulders wearing huge headphones to protect his ears. The little guy, not Valensi :)

The Strokes played every major hit. Casablancas was a genius with sarcasm and wit on the mic joking with the crowd that there was some “hot tail” floating around and that he just flew in this morning on his diamond encrusted jet. They ended with their classic closer Take it or Leave it, Albert Hammond Jr. played that solo like magic was flowing from his fingers. And no one can hold a bassline like Nikolai Fraiture in Juicebox.

Nas and Damien Marley blew the roof off of the main stage. They played some of Bob Marley’s hits. The closest we’ll ever get to seeing Bob for real.

Kanye West was everything you could ask for and more from an artist like him. He had dancers, like a troop, Gaga style, backing him up. He emerged in the middle of the crowd on a lift. When he sang power, fireworks went off, literally. Any song you wanted him to sing, he did. He played for almost two hours. We’re skeptical on Kanye and have seen him twice before but he won everyone over tonight. A worthy ending to a weekend like this one.

FASHION.

The common standbys wore by everyone were sunglasses and smiles. A lot of individuality for this years festival, but some major emerging trends were in full force.

There was an abundance of crocheted outfits that were to be expected yet overwhelming. A man was dressed as Alladin from Disney’s… Aladin. And later we saw a Jasmine. They are totally meant to be I hope they find each other.

The Strokes tour manager @RichPriest told us he’s wearing a speedo to conquer the heat…whatever keeps you cool!

On Sunday there was a lot of body paint. Very artistic, native influenced and a multitude of feather headdresses. One major observation is that there are a lot a lot of hot bodies. Girls and guys, clothing minimal/optional? Looks like fitness is a trend!

For guys we saw a sea of Chucks, denim shorts and tanks. Hipster 101

VIBE.

An Aussie boy with zinc all over his nose shared his skin protection with my friend by wiping his face on hers. Everyone is in such a good, sharing mood.

Everyone was so happy just to be at the polo fields and take in some amazing music. It’s an overwhelming number of talented acts to see in just 3 days. It also makes the seemingly expensive ticket price worth it and sort of minimal.

Coachella

Everyone in attendance was there to appreciate different styles of music, clothing and people. There’s nowhere else like it in the world.

CELEB SPOTTING.

Always on the celeb hunt, our first “celeb” was an absurdly tall quiet giant, Nick Simmons. He’s as meek and mild and hilarious as you’ve seen in Gene Simmons: Family Jewels reality show.

Next was an Alessandra Ambrosio spotting, wow freakishly beautiful and effortlessly stylish.

Huge man Shawne Merriman of the Buffalo Bills is a big man, but what a dancer! He joined our circle and got down for A-Traks set!

For any True Blood fans, Alexander Skarsgaard was spotted floating around on Saturday.

It was hard not to stop the actor who plays Charlie Sheen’s nephew in Two and a Half Men and just ask if a) he’s OK and b) what’s it like working with someone who has Tiger Blood, scary?

Joy Bryant stood with us a while to watch Death From Above 1979. What a nice,normal, low-key girl.

In the City&Colour crowd was Leah Miller, wife of Dallas Green, from eTalk at CTV and CP24′s Matte Babel. Excellent, mellow show.

What we really want to know is who invited Suri Cruise?

Who invited Suri Cruise?

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Take Your Cue From DeeRuby – Coachella Bound!

By kdelesalle | Published: April 15, 2011
It is currently SNOWING in Vancouver….mid-April, coastal city, the “jewel” of Canada. Major depresso, especially when half of our team is in NYC, scouring the boutiques, wining and dining with Mario Batali, taking in Broadway shows. Oops, should’ve said 1/3 of our team….the other “third” is in Indio, CA, hitting Coachella, along with every other 22-32 year old in North America. These are heady times, take advantage of the moment!

Let’s focus on DeeRuby, shall we? Our high-energy burst of sunshine, who will very likely be outfitted in feathers and macrame for the next 3 days. She has compiled her HitSingles HitList, bands that can’t be missed at Coachella. DeeRuby will be LIVE TWEETING from the festival, so be sure to follow for lots of trend forecasting, awesome photos, and the inside scoop from the polo fields! HitSingles Apparel (HitSingles) on Twitter
Without further adieu, here is the HitList!

Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears – very awesome band – Black Joe plays a crazy shiny red guitar and the Honeybears are all pretty sweet. Saw them in Toronto on March 31st at The Horseshoe Tavern – Bon Jovi and Rachel McAdams were also there, if that influences you at all. Also there was Shane West…. but he doesn’t count as cool. They’ve got good hype and it’s all worth it.

The Rural Alberta Advantage – homegrown! And my friend goes to law school at U of T with one of them :) Support it!

The Drums – Every review calls them overrated and not very good. I want them to prove me wrong. They’ve been extremely popular this year.

A-Trak – Because we’re going to be busting it like crazy to sets like this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PgQJWLnKzU

The Strokes – They’ve played four shows this year. I’ve already been to three of them. Maniacal, I know. Huge crush.

The Kills – Alison Mossheart has rad style. And their music is cool. And she knows Jack White. Good enough for me.

Death From Above 1979 – because they’re Death From Above 1979

Kanye West – last I heard Jay-Z made a surprise appearance with him at SXSW, hoping for the same here.

Chromeo – they’re all over the place this year, they are friends with A-Trak (this new obsession with A-Trak just happened during this list making, I didn’t know I liked him this much), they’re hometown boys and they’re killing the music scene this year. Must not miss!
Stay tuned for another LIVE BLOG this afternoon and a festival wrap-up on Monday morning. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter! HitSingles Apparel (HitSingles) on Twitter

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Good Things Come in 3′s…

By vreeve | Published: April 2, 2011

If you just watched the trailer, no doubt your interest has perked up.

This Friday, April 8th at the Vivo Media Arts Centre is the much anticipated Misguided Goddess exhibition; a unique collaborative concept collection by budding photographer, Jamie Hodge and multi-talented artist, Marina Mikulic. Misguided Goddess celebrates the beauty, strength and freedom of women, through a mix of photography, art and film not only from Hodge and Mikulic, but also from other local contributing artists Chaz Woodyer, Ryan Klassen, Dave McGhee, Rheanna FancyPants and Rebecca Amber. Guests can look forward to a silent auction with a special pieces from the show, and prizes donated from a host of sponsors. All proceeds are going to local charity, FCancer- headed up by another bright female mind, Yael Cohen.

So amid all this positive hype, we thought we’d chat to the ladies behind the scenes: Jamie, Marina and Yael.

Yael Cohen photo credit: Samantha Walker

We know the MisGuided Goddess exhibition stems from your past collaborative projects, how did you meet each other and when did you start working together?

Jamie: Marina and I both grew up on the Northshore and come from larger families (4 kids each) with a broad circle of friends, so we knew of each other for a while, but were not introduced until January of this year.

Marina: As soon as we met there was an instant creative connection, and I asked Jamie right away if she wanted to collaborate.

Yael: We’ve never worked together before, Marina and Jamie reached out to F Cancer on their own and I’m SO happy that they did!

We’re really excited for Friday night, what can we expect from the show?

Jamie: In terms of the party or artwork? The party will be unreal…thanks to Brilliant Events and Pelican PR. And the artwork aspect of the show…well you’ll just have to show up to find out!!!

Marina: You can expect mayhem. Basically the creative process comes to life – from film to photography to fine art. You can see the evolution of how everyone came together.



The MisGuided Goddess Show definitely has specific style, what are you using to achieve this effect?

Jamie: I am shooting with a 7D and a few different lens’ and when it comes to lighting I prefer to use natural. Occasionally, I may use my off-camera flash to fill in shadows, but for the most part it’s all-natural! My post editing program of choice is Lightroom. A little color correction never hurt anyone, lol.

Marina: I will be doing portrait style paintings of Jamies photos in Acrylic paint. I use large canvases and heavy brushstrokes. I’m also painting a separate gypsy like collection in watercolour with big lips and hair – very goddesss-y!

(we don’t want to spoil the show with too many photos, so you’ll have to wait and see)

It’s evident that you have both put a ton of work into making this event come to life. What has been the most challenging?

Jamie: Like every business project, there are definite highs and lows! Challenging? Finding a LOCATION! Exciting? Seeing this project come together…every meeting we’ve had in the last few weeks have been great. I leave feeling more confident about the show, and more excited for the night!

Marina: Hmmm .. the most exiting for me is seeing it all come together – when I am at home painting in my studio. Looking back on the photo’s – The photoshoots were a lot of challenging work. Art directing…getting people together on time, and being the one everyone came to with concerns. But it is something I love to do.

We’re hearing so much positive news about F*Cancer recently. Besides having a very catchy name, what do you think has been the secret to building awareness around your cause?

Yael: The name definitely opens doors for us, but it’s our content and substance that keeps people coming back. We’re a raw and honest forum for people to discuss, experience, and navigate a really protected subject.

Being the face and voice of F Cancer must be an emotional roller coaster at times. Providing an outlet for people during such a transformative time in their lives, must come with it’s humorous moments too.

Yael: Cancer is an emotional and traumatic experience,  whether you have it or someone you love does, it hurts and it’s hard. This takes a toll on the FC Team, as we hear about people’s worst days and lowest lows. I need to make sure that our team is safe and can step away when needed. Beyonce to the rescue! When things get too heavy, we throw on a Beyonce song and dance like fools for a few minutes. Nothing like a quick dance to pump the endorphins and reset.


What do you hope to achieve by hosting this event and what do you think your attendees will walk away with?

Marina: Basically, my goal was to provide awareness and inspire. The possibilities are limitless –  I just wanted to make people aware that every little thing we do can help someone else with bigger needs. Everyone is at risk of being affected by cancer –Everyone -  why ignore it? Let’s form an alliance and protect ourselves, and at the same time contribute by sharing showing the things we love to do.

Yael: FCancer is so thankful for all of the amazing people who choose to host events for us. I think it takes a really special type of person to pour their heart and soul into an event for charity. The ladies putting together the Misguided Goddess Show are no exception. Their passion, talent, and kindness is remarkable- and will undoubtedly translate into a wonderful event; an event that brings awareness to the cause and helps fund future live saving campaigns that teach people how to look for cancer instead of just find it.

You all are Vancouverites, so what’s in store this summer?

Jamie: I spend my summers like a gypsy. I try to get in as many trips as possible…and try to live without any major responsibilities. This summer, like all the rest, will be spent with a care-free mind set. The only difference this summer will be the amount of pictures I take in comparison to last year.

Marina: Hmmm – Painting and planning Misguided Goddess #2. If you are creative- contact me, I would love to collaborate.

Yael: Most likely at our office with the windows wide open. F Cancer has a few exciting launches coming up this summer, and enjoying the breeze from our windows will have to do!

If you still need tickets or would like more information, please visit the Misguided Goddess Facebook Page.

And if you are in to twitter like we are… be sure to follow HitSingles and MsFuckCancer and yogimermaid !!

See you next week after the show!

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Coachella 2011 LIVE TWEETS from DeeRuby

By vreeve | Published: March 31, 2011

Coachella. For us, the meer mention of the name evokes the sweetest memories of desert sunsets, lush palms, pulled pork tacos, lime margs, a gigantic ferris wheel, surprisingly clean campgrounds and a crowd of colourful, kind, and totally stoked strangers from far and wide. The weekend brings the old, the new, the hopeful and the untouchable together to invariably sound off the music of the summer.

We’ve come to appreciate Coachella for all it is – an endless radiation of good vibes.

For those missing out this year, there are no words for your loss, but we bring to you the next best thing -  live coverage as it happens with our lovely HitSingles Coachella correspondent.

Earlier this year, when the HitSingles team realized we had a scheduling conflict and were unable to attend, we posted an intern opening on Christie Lohr’s Style Nine to Five fashion career website and were overwhelmed with the amazing quality of applicants who were interested in being our social media microphone – tweeting live from the event grounds on music, fashion and the what’s going-ons.

Pouring over 25 applications we settled our sights on none other than DeeRuby: Andrea De Rubeis. Our first applicant who not only chatted to us the entire time through twitter, but also voluntarily wrote a blog about Coachella last year. She talks the talk and freestyle walks the walk. Andrea lives for live music as a Toronto based music and events writer for The Broken Heel Diaries.

www.thebrokenheeldiaries.com

Before we go live with the best coverage all weekend long, we thought we’d introduce her to you and get you pumped on what’s to come.

HitSingles: So DeeRuby, tell us a little about how you became obsessed with music?

DeeRuby: It’s always been in my life I suppose, I’ve played the piano since I was three. But really – I mostly owe it to my dad! i didn’t appreciate it at the time, not like I do now, but for as long as I remember the tapes in the car that were always on rotation were Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, The Eagles and Dire Straights. Heavy guitar influences or what?My dad is also an exceptional guitar player, there’s one planted in every corner of our house, I think it was ingrained in my brain from birth!

HitSingles: When was your first live show/concert and who did you see?

DeeRuby: Do I admit it? I guess I must! I was six years old, and I saw The New Kids on the Block. I didn’t understand true love until Jordan Knight sang “Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind)” without a shirt. Creepy now that I think of it.

HitSingles: We know you have seen a lot of live shows, any particular ones that really stick out in memory?

DeeRuby: Oooo – I don’t wanna choose! I saw the Verve when they got back together for a short time in 2008, that was a Bittersweet Symphony like never before. It was really cool to see Kanye and John Legend opening for Usher in 2002 before Kanye and John Legend are who they are. The Rolling Stones were legendary, of course. Wee crush on Keith, maybe. Dave Grohl and Eddie Vedder might be my favourite frontmen. Oh, also Chris Martin. Such wicked engagement with the crowd. I just saw the return of The Strokes in Las Vegas two weekends ago, unreal! And on Saturday I’ll be seeing the farewell show for LCD Soundsystem – that’s going to be indescribable! I’m rambling…

HitSingles: We know you were on the road to becoming a lawyer; what motivated you to change from a career path of law and order to music and events PR?

DeeRuby: It didn’t speak to me. What a hippie answer….It was three years of no sleep and constant strain – music, playing and listening, were always a way out to take a break! And planning events, PR and entertainment is something that I fell into, sort of, but happen to be pretty good at, so I might stick with it awhile.

HitSingles: Last year you went to Coachella and this year you are doing it again, what’s in your Coachella survival kit this year? Any tips for readers who are going?

DeeRuby’s Coachella Survival Kit:
1. Fully charged SMART PHONE – essential for live blogging, picture taking and tweeting!
2. SUNSCREEN – it’s everywhere though for free!
3. WATER – you can get it for $1, so cheap, so vital.
3. Performance SCHEDULE – Don’t miss a show now – they have postcard sized schedules to keep in your backpack or side-bag.
4. SHADES  – grab your favourite pair of wayfarers or aviators or whatever your choice of eyeball protection – it’s the desert people!
5. A good BREAKFAST – the day is so exciting you always forget to eat, and if you wanna dance and enjoy until the wee hours of the morning, you’re going to need some energy.
6. CASH MONEY – those red bull/vodkas aren’t cheap, you know….
7. My FRIENDS – they are my survival for these three crazy days
8. Lastly, you NEED a GOOD ATTITUDE – the days are long, everyone’s tired, don’t be Buzz Killington!
And you can meet some really, really cool people if you just have an open mind and keep a smile on your beautifully gorgeous face.

These should go without saying:
Three days flies by real quick, appreciate every moment.
Wear comfortable clothes – HitSingles tees will do the trick! $30 for mens crews and $25 for ladies boyfriend tanks – email sales@hitsinglesapparel.com
Comfortable Shoes: no high heels ladies, unless you’re carted around all day, it’s grass and dirt AND no one cares!

don’t you just love her.

HitSingles: As much as Coachella is about music, it is definitely heavily influenced by fashion. Last year the crowd literally looked like a sea of floating fedoras, what’s your prediction for the major fashion trend this year?

DeeRuby: Talk about fedoras – I was totally one of those straw-hat-toting broads! This year I’m feeling feathers, not sure why, but lots and lots of feathers. Boho tops and anything you can rock out in. (that’s what i’m wearing anyway)

This year you are going to be tweeting live with observations and updates straight from the venue. Which shows are do or die/must-must see for you?

DeeRuby: This is why I’m so nervous for the schedule to be released because I don’t want any of my do-or-die shows to conflict! I am definitely going to be supporting all of the Canadian artists there – Gord Downie, Chromeo, Dallas Green, Crystal Castles, Arcade Fire, and the list goes on. There’s one group called Trentmoller, a Scandanavian electro band, I’m most interested to see them – one girl plays a frequency rod and makes noise by waving her hands in the air in front of it, it’s just out of control, I’ve never seen anything like it.

Sunday’s lineup is big. The ticket is worth it just to be there for this day.

HitSingles: Apparently DeeRuby loves rapid fire questions, here we go.

Spontaneous Wandering Gypsy or Keep Calm and Carry On? GYPSY!

Live to Work or Work to Live? Work to live, definitely.

Solo Style or Run with the Pack? I definitely have my own drumbeat… it’s usually pretty rad.

Bike trip through Scandinavia or Winery Tours through France? Biking winery tour from France to Scandanavia.

Vintage Eclectic or Shopbop.com? How can I choose….

Blackberry or Iphone? Without BBM there is no way to live.

Kids in the near future or Whoa Mamma? I could deal with kids in the near future. That might scare some readers. :)

SPF 30 or Hawaiian Tropic Oil? SPF30! I am the definition of pale.

Check back on Tuesday, April 12th as we amp up for the official weekend. Make sure to follow HitSingles to get DeeRuby’s tweets all weekend long!

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