VIMwatch: 2010 Emmy style

Ladies



Golden Globe winner (for Felicity) Keri Russell, looked absolutely stunning - as usual - in this bright pink summer-y gown. We don't know how she does it, but girlfriend is always looking the epitome of class. And we love her hair, too. Check out Russell's new series Running Wilde, also starring Arrested Development's Will Arnett as the title character, on FOX.



Once again, the lovely Claire Danes was the envy of many in her gorgeous glittery gown. I mean, honestly, who doesn't love something that sparkles? And when someone can pull it off as well as Danes here, there's really nothing to complain about. Not to mention Danes took the Emmy for Outstanding Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for Temple Grandin.

Gents



Peter Facinelli apparently has time away from the Twilight films to also star in the Showtime series Nurse Jackie - who knew?! - and made an appearance at this year's Emmys looking pretty awesome. Though the hair might be what really makes this outfit, we are loving the white on white look.



Personally, we think The Office's John Krasinski can't help but be absolutely adorable. He really took that to another level at this particular award show with his fabulous silver bowtie. Love it!

Today's show: Women working in male-dominated jobs, and the Calgary Dyke March!

Tonight we interview two women who work in male-dominated jobs: a machinist and a construction worker. We discuss sexism in the workplace and what these ladies love and loathe about their jobs.

Also, Calgary's first ever Dyke March is coming up this weekend, so we'll be spreading the good word about that!

Tune in from 8 - 9 p.m. on CJSW 90.9 fm in Calgary, or from anywhere in the world on cjsw.com. You can also download our podcast if you miss the live show.

VIM Pick: Best Read of the Summer

Summer is always a great time for relaxing on those lazy days and catching up on reading that you've meant to do but just can't find the time during the school year. Naturally, we VIM staffers did a lot of that this past summer and wanted to share our favorite read with you:

Chelsea Handler's collection of one-night stands, My Horizontal Life, is just plain hilarious. All of Handler's books are written effortlessly. One can tell she really has knack for storytelling and often comes off much like Judy Blume, a childhood fave of many. Beyond the writing, My Horizontal Life is really great in that you can pick it up at anytime or even read the chapters out of order as it is designed in a series of short stories of Handler's pre-comedian life. Trust us, it's colorful.

Fall Mood Music

Fall is almost in full swing with classes beginning Wednesday [don't forget - treat it like a Monday ;)] and with move-in madness and back-to-school get-togethers happening all around, we've decided to provide our readers with the ultimate MSU 2010 "welcome week" playlist to help get everyone in the mood for fall, football and Spartan goodness. Enjoy!

1 "Don't Stop Believin'" Journey
2 "Bulletproof" La Roux
3 "Livin' on a Prayer" Bon Jovi
4 "Hot Mess" Cobra Starship
5 "Sweet Disposition" Temper Trap
6 "Love the Way You Lie (Feat. Rhianna)" Eminem
7 "Sweet Caroline" Neil Diamond
8 "Please Don't Go" Mike Posner
9 "You Make My Dreams" Hall & Oates
10 "Mr. Brightside" The Killers
11 "Teenage Dream" Katy Perry
12 "I Saw Her Standing There" The Beatles
13 "Electric Feel" MGMT
14 "Cupid Shuffle" Cupid
15 "September" Earth Wind & Fire
16 "Can You Tell?" Ra Ra Riot
17 "Gettin' Over You (Feat. Chris Willis, Fergie and LMFAO)" David Guetta
18 "Up Around the Bend" Creedence Clearwater Revival
19 "Lean Like a Cholo" Down A.K.A. Kilo
20 "I Like It (Feat. Pitbull)" Enrique Iglesias
21 "Like a Prayer" Madonna
22 "Friends in Low Places" Garth Brooks
23 "Bad Romance" Lady Gaga
24 "Billie Jean" Michael Jackson
25 "Ridin' Solo" Jason Derulo

Study Finds 1/4 of Lap Dancers Have Degrees

The Independent UK reports:

A British study (and the first academic research project into lap dancing) has found that one in four lap dancers has a degree and has been attracted to that career because of the money.

Dancers took home an average of £232 ($378 Canadian) a shift after paying commission and fees to the club, with most working between two and four shifts a week – giving them annual incomes of between £24,000 and £48,000 a year ($39,000 -78,300 Canadian).

Album Review: Teenage Dream

We don't hate Katy Perry's latest effort. Why? Because it is what it is. Perry is actually a very talented vocalist and simply chooses to expose the world to insanely bubblegum-y pop deliciousness. She does not ever try to hide behind anyone or anything else and will sing about nearly anything (see: "Peacock" if you don't believe us). Teenage Dream is loaded with infectious dance anthems especially for the college-aged, like "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)." On another note, "Circle the Drain" provides interesting insight into Perry's pre-Russell Brand relationship with Travie McCoy. Even if you don't enjoy Perry, I'm sure you'll get the "Hummingbird Heartbeat" dancing to this album for the next year or so on the club circuit.
Most notable tracks: "The One That Got Away", "Teenage Dream"

Free Women's Health Expo This Weekend

In an effort to provide women with valuable recources to improve their health and the health of their families, a free Women’s Health Expo is happening on Saturday, Aug. 28 at the Marlborough Community Centre.

Free haircuts, henna artwork, basic eye and dental exams and gently used clothing will be offered as well as resources from more than 40 local agencies. All women are welcome and entertainment for children is available.

The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

Wall Art: Niagara Detroit

If you are looking to decorate your new residence hall room, apartment or house, look no further than Niagara Detroit.

Launched by former rocker and Motor City native, Niagara, this passionate artist's prints of the Pop art variety are to die for. Anything vintage is right up our alley and all of Niagara's designs scream vintage (and often comic book) - in a good way!

Happy decorating.

Calgary Pride and Dyke March coming up!

We'll be having a gay ol' time in Calgary on the September long weekend!

Pride Parade
Sunday September 5, 12:00 noon
8th Ave & 8th St SW

Pride Dance
Saturday September 4, 8 pm - 2 am
Spur - 351 4th Ave SW

visit PrideCalgary.ca for details!


Calgary Dyke March
Saturday, September 4, 12:00 noon
Gather at the tower clock at Shaw Millenium Park - march along 8th Ave to Century Gardens at 8th St.

visit CalgaryDykeMarch.com for details!

Tonight's Show: Virginity

Tonight Jennie and Bee discuss virginity. A few questions that we'll ponder:

- Why is virginity so important/sacred/valued?

- Where did the 'idea' of virginity come from?

- Why does virginity only matter for women, and not for men?

- What exactly does it mean to lose your virginity today? (Does anal sex count? How do gays/lesbians lose their virginity? Do bisexual people get to lose their virginity twice?)

Tune in tonight from 8-9 pm for a rousing discussion on this fascinating topic! As always, we podcast our shows so you can download the podcast if you miss our live show.

"It's a lie to think you're not good enough. It's a lie to think you're not worth anything."

As a feminist, I see self esteem as one of the biggest problems facing women today. So when I saw this short video about a guy who has no arms and no legs, yet is absolutely full of confidence and happiness, I just had to post this.

One of the most touching parts of this video is when he says to a group of students, "It's scary to know how many girls have eating disorders... it's scary to know how many people actually think they're worth nothing. Every single girl right here right now - I want you to know that you are beautiful. You are gorgeous just the way you are."

He is amazing. AND SO ARE YOU! Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise.

Movie Review: Eat Pray Love

If there seems to be one message shouting at you from this film it is: Find yourself! (And see the world from multiple perspectives while doing so.) That message in and of itself is a great one. The book remains unread by some on our staff but that does not mean that the film is not appreciated. For those who have traveled to even one of the three destinations on Liz Gilbert's (Julia Roberts) list, it stands as a gorgeous testament to the beautiful countries. For those who have loved and lost and loved again, it does the same. For everyone in between, it gives a glimpse into some aspect of the kind of person many of us aspire to be. All things aside, this worldwide best-seller translates nicely to the big screen but does not pack enough punch or is too slow-moving to deeply satisfy its audience, despite some truly fantastic performances and heartwarming moments.
Best on-screen moment: Any part with Ketut - the wise, inspirational, Balinese guru who is 101- or 64-years-old... he can't remember.

Movie Review: Dinner for Schmucks

Everything that can go wrong for the "hero" of this movie... does. Films don't get much more predictable than this is. Dinner for Schmucks is an adaptation of a widely popular French film and one can almost tell why it doesn't translate all that well for American audiences. Steve Carell and Paul Rudd give it their best shot and play a truly excellent pair of buds, but they cannot quite save the script of annoying situation after annoying situation. Stephanie Szostak shines in Dinner as Paul Rudd's character Tim's girlfriend, Julie. If you love Rudd and Carell and fancy some interesting cameos from Zach Galifianakis and ventriloquist comedian Jeff Dunham, then you should give this flick a shot. If not, don't bother.
Best on-screen moment: When Tim (Rudd) attempts to walk up the stairs after hurting his back.

Tonight: Interview with Members of the Ellipsis Tree Theatre Collective

Tonight's show will feature an interview with two members of the Ellipsis Tree Theatre Collective. In the interview, we discuss the important existence of a collective like Ellipsis Tree in Calgary as it consists almost entirely of Afro/Caribbean-Canadian women.

Their latest production is the Pulitzer Prize winning play entitled "Ruined" by Lynn Nottage which made its Canadian premiere(right here in Calgary!) this past Friday. The play deals with sexual exploitation of women in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the war and runs until August 28th at The Lunchbox Theatre (160 115 9 Avenue SE). They will also be hosting a speaker symposium entitled "Breaking The Silence: Rape As A Weapon of War" at the Glenbow Museum on August 22nd (free admission!) in conjunction with Ruined. The symposium will host both women and men from the Democratic Republic of Congo who will speak on their experiences with war and violence against women and will feature an exhibit, "Walk With Me: Lived Experiences of The Sex Trade".


For details/tickets, those interested can visit ellipsistree.ca
Be sure to check the "Ruined" and "Breaking The Silence: Rape As A Weapon of War" event pages on Facebook as well.


We will also be sharing some great music for the second part of the program, so be sure to tune in tonight on CJSW 90.9 FM at 8:00pm (MST) for the goods!

Beyoncé calls herself a feminist!

From an article in the Daily Mail (UK):

If Beyoncé has been cautious in the past about exposing her real persona to the public gaze, she has had no such fears, I point out, in revealing her true physical self. Bucking the size-zero trend and championing a move towards ‘bootylicious’... she is, I suggest, one of the few really positive role models for young girls. Not just because of her own body (up close, she is magnificent yet still somehow real) but also because of the strong, independent female messages of her lyrics.



"I think I am a feminist in a way. It’s not something I consciously decided I was going to be; perhaps it’s because I grew up in a singing group with other women, and that was so helpful to me. It kept me out of so much trouble and out of bad relationships. My friendships with my girls are just so much a part of me that there are things I am never going to do that would upset that bond. I never want to betray that friendship because I love being a woman and I love being a friend to other women."

How cool is that? I only wish more awesome female celebrities and musicians would use the "f-word" without fear or shame. I agree with the authour of this article - Beyoncé does seem to be a good role model for young women. And I totally agree with Beyoncé that feminism keeps women out of trouble and out of bad relationships! Because when you respect and love yourself, you won't let other people shit on you.



Yay, Beyoncé!

Eat, Pray, Gain 11 Pounds

I was reading an article about Julia Roberts' new film, Eat Pray Love, and a few sentences really irked me. Here's what I read, and why it pissed me off:



"... the famously slender Roberts admits she piled on the pounds during shooting for the Italian segment of the story... [Roberts revealed] she gained 11 pounds during the Italian filming."



First of all, when is 11 pounds considered "piling on the pounds"? Second, why is Julia Roberts gaining 11 pounds news-worthy? Third, the article was titled "A Weighty Role for Julia Roberts." Seriously? It's not like she gained 50 pounds here, people. Are you really that desperate for a story?



It's just another example of how women's bodies are publicly scrutinized and their weight gain/loss is constantly discussed. The choice of words "piled on the pounds" says a lot about the way we view women's weight gain. If a male actor gained a measly 11 pounds during filming, would it get a mention? Of course not, because it's so ridiculously insignificant. So why does it matter when it's Julia Roberts?

People Tree Fall Fashion Preview

What's in for fall? According to our English counterparts, stripes and ruffle/twist details.

UK fair trade fashion company People Tree published a fall fashion preview and we are loving the items below. Check 'em, out!


Ruby Frill Dress, $85, in grey


Wide Stripe Top, $40, in paprika/brown




P.S. Yes, this is the company Harry Potter star and Brown University sophomore Emma Watson designs for.

Girls entering puberty and growing breasts as young as seven

From the Globe and Mail:

Girls as young as 7 and 8 are developing breasts and entering puberty earlier than they did just one decade ago.

A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics, looked at 1,239 girls aged 6 to 8. By age 7, 15% have started developing breasts; by age 8, that number increases to 27%. Those numbers are alarming because they're significantly higher than numbers reported in a landmark study from 1997, which showed that only 5% of white girls had those signs of puberty at age 7.

Additionally, overweight or obese girls are far more likely to grow breasts at an early age. Race is another contributing factor: The study found that 23% of black girls begin puberty at age 7, compared to 15% of Hispanic girls and 10% of white girls.

The danger of girls maturing physically at such a young age is that they may look like teenagers - and may be treated like sexually mature young women while they are actually still children. The authors of the study also mention other dangers associated with early onset of puberty: “Earlier maturation in girls is associated with lower self-esteem and less favourable body image, as well as greater rates of eating problems, depression and suicide attempts. They were more likely to be influenced by deviant peers, with earlier onset of sexual intercourse.”

New Diesel ad looks an awful lot like American Apparel

Is this supposed to be, "if I wear hot jeans to the office my boss will sleep with me?" And what's up with the fact that their tag line is now "Be Stupid?" (bottom right). WTF.

Jac Vanek Bracelets

Jac Vanek began her career as teen due to an interest in music and the "scene" culture that surrounds the business. Slowly, the now 21-year-old, who also models and is involved in photography, became an Internet sensation. The rest is history.

Collaborations with musicals artists Miley Cyrus (below), Boys Like Girls, Paramore and Cobra Starship have further helped put this young designer's style on the map. Most of her bracelet products are priced at $10 and Vanek offers clothing and other merchandise on her site. Further, Vanek often works with social, not-for-profit causes. To learn more about the brand and the woman behind it (or to purchase) click here. We at VIM find these products fun and semi-inspirational (like Carpe Diem above) for the free spirit in all of us.


Lady Gaga and Aaron Carter showing their support for NOH8, each wearing Vanek

It's All Good Miley bracelet

Album Review: 31 Minutes to Takeoff

Twenty-one-year-old Southfield, Mich. native and Duke University senior, Mike Posner shines on his first for-profit release (in the past he has released two free albums through iTunesU). If you haven't heard his debut single "Cooler Than Me," then you have to have been basically living under a rock this summer. Posner is kind of like a baby-faced version of Justin Timberlake, whom we are all missing right now as he is continuously pursuing acting (seemingly) over music. Collaborations with Boyz II Men ("Déjà Vu") and Travis Barker ("Gone In September") as well as sampling Ray Lamontagne's "You Are the Best Thing" ("Do You Wanna?") help make this album a fantastic first effort that we know will be played all over the Michigan State University campus and beyond. Plus, with lyrics like I should've cheated on you/Nobody told me I was dating a whore, what's not to enjoy?
Most notable tracks: "Please Don't Go," "Bow Chicka Wow Wow"

VIMwatch: Teen Choice 2010 Style

Ladies

Lea Michelle of Glee was looking stunning as ever Sunday night in this gorgeous green ensemble. Note: Lea's tan shoes (this seems to be a trend among most of the starlets of the evening).

Burlesque star Kristin Bell wowed us with her slightly oriental summer dress. Not too shabby.























Gents

Ian Somerhalder from The Vampire Diaries and modeling fame looked absolutely scorching in his James Dean-esque, "bad boy" getup.

From left field, Joshua Jackson stole the red carpet looking absolutely dapper in this dark blue blazer-and-tie with dark jeans combo. We'll always have a soft spot for Pacey Witter.

Fashion Spotlight: Mary-Kate Olsen

Mary-Kate Olsen graces the cover of Marie Claire's September issue and we couldn't be more delighted. Not only were we lovers of the Olsen twins as youngsters, but Mary-Kate is truly a fashionista to look up to. MK has a fearless sense of style, which, in our opinion, is what fashion is all about. The actress/designer's I-don't-give-a-damn attitude 24/7 is majorly admirable. Plus, she always looks stunning. As a result, please enjoy the stills below.

Feeling a tad nostalgic?

So are we! It is for that reason that we've decided to provide another "favorites" list (the awkward length - at six - is simply because we couldn't eliminate any of these gems). This time, we compiled our "Greatest TV Shows of the Nineties," to be watched specifically when you're yearning for the decade (which, for us, happens more often than it should, frankly). Yes, the fashion wasn't easy on the eyes, but it does make for fabulous memories. The following shows are honestly the best examples that we can think of - plus, they are just plain the best.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Let's face it, the WB seriously knew what they were doing in the 90s because it had an incredible lineup of teen angst that has yet to be matched (The CW has got absolutely nothing on it). Buffy the Vampire Slayer is just one stellar example of this. Buffy managed to combine romance, comedy, action and drama in neat, 43-minute episodes, all the while keeping Sarah Michelle Gellar looking awesome. Talk about impressive. Also, Buffy made vampires cool before they were "cool."

Dawson's Creek

If there is one character in the history of television who was subjected to the worst wardrobe ever, it was Joey Potter of the infamous Dawson's Creek. The creek was genius for its time, though when one watches it again you can't help but think, "Did the writers really think that 15-year-olds talk like this?" Also, does anyone else find it ironic that everyone's least favorite character from this series is, in fact, its title character? Or is it just us.

Felicity

We take our comment about Miss Potter back, Felicity's title character definitely gives DC a run for its money in the bad fashion department. That, however, does not take away from how much we absolutely loved this show. Felicity was the first true show about college, spanning only four seasons to encompass the characters' four years of undergrad at "NYU." It was an adolescent's first glimpse into what college might be like. Our experiences to date involve a lot less over analyzing and we have yet to be caught in such an amazing love triangle, but Felicity remains one of our all-time faves.

Friends

Isn't a simple mention of "the Rachel" enough reasoning for us to adore this show for both its fashion and beauty influences? Not to mention it is probably the single most hilarious show of the decade, at least for our generation (all of you Seinfeld lovers out there).

Saved by the Bell

If you have to ask why Saved by the Bell made this list, you clearly are not a child of the 90s. Saturday morning television will never be the same, we will never be the same and I'm pretty sure Kelly Kapowski/Zack Morris hold a special place in the hearts of all current 20-somethings. Also, the fact that you can purchase this is beyond awesome.

Sex and the City

I think this one is pretty darn obvious and, yes, we did check: Sex and the City premiered on HBO in 1998. We realize that this series is still quite relevant, with its two feature films and all, but if you take a moment and start at season one, you can check out the high end of nineties fashion with our favorite ladies.

Organic Cosmetics... even Mascara!

Josie Maran Cosmetics have developed an entire brand of organic, luxury makeup for the conscious consumer, sold at Sephora stores nationwide as well as online at the provided link.

The secret to the success of this line is their use of Moroccan Argan oil, a 100 percent natural substance found from semi-desert Argan trees. Unsurprisingly, the company's biggest seller is, in fact, their Argan Oil, $48, with its incredible moisturizing abilities. Not to mention, their creation of fabulous organic mascara ($22).

Comfy Chic

It's almost time for those summer internships to wrap up but that doesn't mean we shouldn't add to our summer working-woman wardrobe, right? Right.

These shorts, from J. Crew sister brand Madewell, can easily be dressed up for the office with a sleek belt and blouse combination. Trust us, you'll be saying "thank you" when you are crazy comfortable at work.

Heathered slouch sweatshorts, $45, Madewell.com

Ciao Bella Gelato

With the outside temperatures still rising, Ciao Bella Gelato is the perfect hot afternoon treat.

Ciao Bella Gelato, which has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show and in countless magazines, boasts an extremely indulgent collection of gelato and sorbet created from pure, natural ingredients. With gelato flavors ranging from Chocolate Jalepeno to Key Lime Graham, and sorbet flavors ranging from Blood Orange to Blackberry Cabernet, you'll never run out of new, exciting flavors to devour.

Ciao Bella Gelato opened its doors in 1983 in New York City's Little Italy, but has seen its business spread throughout the nation. You can pick up a pint at your local Whole Foods, Target, or Harris Teeter, but if you still need help finding your perfect pint, you can always go to their store locater online to find the closest location nearest to you (in E.L. Foods for Living carries the brand).