I won't lie. I am no art expert so I rely on my groovy art friends to let me know the inside scoop. Here is a show that I heard about recently that looks really interesting.

By using "readymade objects as devices to merge paradoxical concepts," Vancouver artist Brian Jungen attempts to transform these items into a new "hybrid object" that both "affirms and negates" their mass-produced origin, as well as "charts an alternative destination" for them other than a landfill. His solo exhibition, "Cetology," features a giant sculpture formed as the skeleton of the endangered bowhead whale, which is suspended from a ceiling and fashioned from plastic lawn chairs....Jungen has also created startling replicas of Northwest Coast native masks constructed from disassembled Nike Air Jordan training shoes. His contemporary works are among those in highest demand for loans from the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Canada Council For The Arts.

When: starts Tuesday, March 28th (runs for a week)
Where: Art Metropole, 788 King Street West. (416) 703-4400

Thanks to Tonik for the tip.

Photo: Trevor Mills, Vancouver Art Gallery

Toronto Fashion Week came and went last week and I must admit that I've been a little slack at posting my reviews. After all the hype and the strength of the last Fall showing, I was so excited to cover the shows this time around. I hate to admit it but the shows were a little lackluster for me this season. You know it kills me to say that because I am always so pro-Canadian designers.

Lileo, Toronto's "It" lifestyle store turned two this weekend. If you haven't been to this store, it is a treat that you cannot miss. Located in the historic Distillery area, Lileo is 7000 square feet of delectable delights to appease all senses.

When it comes to the idea of a lifestyle store, the founders, Syd Beder and Alexandra Morgan are the best at this game. They were the ones responsible for bringing uber yoga line, Lululemon to the city. When the opportunity arose for them to open a retail outlet that encompassed all of their beliefs, they jumped at the opportunity.

For some reason, there aren't a lot of local retailers who carry mainly Canadian designers. Paper-Doll.com, a Toronto based online retailer is one of the few exceptions. The store has been in existence for six years and is the best place to find a lot of great independent talent. You won't find a wider selection of contemporary streetwear anywhere.

When asked about her vision for only buying Canadian, buyer Leigh Thompson replied,"I've always wanted to offer something a little different. To many of my customers in the USA (and even some in Canada) Paper-Doll.com is their only source for most of the labels I carry. I've stocked mainly Canadian designers because I think there are so many talented designers in Canada. House of Spy, OK47, Perplex and Lola, BodyBag - they're all so unique and talented, I haven't really had to look beyond Canada yet...."

Dressing in the beginning of the year is always tricky. It's still cold out but stores start getting new Spring product, and your wallet is itching to get yourself new goods. Or maybe that's just me.

Here's how to incorporate some Spring trends into your current Fall wardrobe.

LAYER, LAYER, LAYER
This is a great way to wear the lighter weight pieces and still keep warm. Layer a bright coloured cardigan over a crisp, white shirt. Shirts should have a bit of ruffle, think Victorian-esque. Add a new neutral vintage inspired blazer or a sexy fitted vest.

THINK SKINNY
As in your pants. If you're not ready to go for the full skinny bottom, try something with a straigter cut. You'll be amazed how much this instantly updates your whole look.

PRINTED SKIRTS
Skirts are still big this year. Think big, bold tribal prints that you can still pair with a black turtleneck and boots.

ACCESSORIES
Nothing updates a complete look faster than adding accessories. Get one of the new Spring oversized bags (my pick is this Bottega Veneta bag), or add a multi layered necklace. The look is less chunky than the previous season.

Most importantly, nothing says "Stylish" more than feeling comfortable in your own skin.

Photo Courtsey of Style.com

These first few winter months of the year really get to me. I suddenly become a virtual hermit. I don't know whether it's because I ate so much over the holidays or whether I just really dislike the cold. All I know is that all I want to do is hibernate until it gets warm again.

However, the shopper in me does not want to hibernate, so what is the next best alternative? LATE NIGHT ONLINE SHOPPING, BABY!

Does anyone else know about these babies I just discovered on the Urban Outfitters site? When did their home stuff become so grown up and glam? Whatever caused the change, I must say I am liking it. It gives one the opportunity to add some affordable character to all the Ikea-ness that most of us have. One only hopes that the upgrade in style also means an upgrade in quality. Urban Outfitters is known for being cheap and cheerful, and what you pay is often what you get.

Whatever that may be, it's awakened the shopping spirit in me and I am off to check it out in the morning.

Photo courtesy of Urban Outfitters.

Items available on www.urbanoutfitters.com