O SolomeoEffortless dressing with Cucinelli / 5

Spring 2013 Issue 6

Back in the spotlight / 10

CMYK

Ty Whittington N/A

02/11/2013 5.375" x 16"

Sandra Noto

Lida Baday_AD_5.375x16 .125" all around

SprIng collectIon 201 3

lidabaday.com

An explosion of exciting

fresh colours, prints

galore, bold stripes,

masculine cuts made

feminine, clear heels

and cutouts – why

shouldn’t Spring be fun? We’re waking up

from a long winter’s nap and it’s time to

let go.

Our shelves and displays are bursting

with fresh choices to help you savour the

warmer temperatures and longer days.

Look for invigorating and exotic prints

from our UK-based collection by Preen.

Helmut Lang is as edgy as ever,

encouraging masculine, linear structured

concepts over sheer and feminine pieces

targeting the eclectic fashionista. And

when you want to express your delicate

side, check out the subtle magic of Lanvin

and Valentino.

There’s also a strong complement of

stunning black and whites. These are

classics that let you accessorize to your

heart’s delight with a palette of colours that

is limited only by your imagination.

Oh, and the shoes! Open toes, clear heels,

flats, platforms and more.

I could go on, but I know you want to see

for yourself. In the meantime, I hope you

enjoy our redesigned tabloid publication.

The larger format gives us the opportunity

to present more dramatic visuals in an airy

layout that is easier to read.

We’re grateful to our partners, both

globally and locally, who support our

efforts to provide you with seasonal

insights and information through our

publication. And speaking of partners,

I’m thrilled to announce our return to the

Most Wanted fashion show in Toronto

this spring. Check it out on page 10. This

event, like so many being held across the

province in the coming weeks, is a huge

success thanks to the dedicated volunteers

who give of their time to make it happen.

Finally, I want to thank you for your

support that has made our first 49 years

such a joyful experience.

Spring is dazzling with colours, prints, stripes

and more!

Milli

OWnersMilli Gould Ben Gould Mark Gould

MiLLi Magazine sPring/suMMer 2013

executive editor: Nancy Bryans, Milli Ltd.

Publicist: Anita Gatto

Publisher/editor-in-chief: Gordon Green, JAG Communications Inc.

art Director: Corinne Nyffenegger,

JAG Communications Inc.

MILLI LocationsMilli Hamilton 310 Main St. West (at Pearl St. South), Hamilton, ON L8P 1J8905-527-1531 | 1-888-527-1531 | www.milli.ca | info@milli.ca

Milli Toronto100 Bloor St. West (at Critchley Lane), Toronto M5S 3L3416-944-2233 | 1-866-389-2233

Store HoursMilli Hamilton - Monday - Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.Effective April 1, 2013 - Thursdays 9:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday by appointment only

Milli TorontoMonday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday by appointment only

The Gould family, from left: Mark, Milli and Ben.

MILLI ServicesMilli is the premier destination for women’s clothing and accessories in Southwestern Ontario. Our first fashion boutique opened in 1964, and for the last 48 years we have remained committed to offering the latest designs from the world’s top designers. Customer service is the hallmark of our business, making Milli the ‘go-to’ destination for the well-dressed woman.

EXPERIENCEOur highly trained team has the experience and expertise to help you design the ideal wardrobe for your tastes and lifestyle.

ATELIER SERVICESWe understand the importance of custom-fit clothing, a service that has become rare in modern shopping. Our professional ateliers have years of couture tailoring experience, offering our customers the highest level of quality and attention to detail. You can count on our team to help create your perfect fitted garment.

WARDROBE CONSULTATIONLet us bring Milli to you in the comfort of your home. After taking an inventory of your closet, we will suggest ways to incorporate pieces from our collection in-store with your existing wardrobe. We also are available for personal consultation at your office, or wherever works best for you. We strive to make looking good comfortable and convenient.

GIFT WRAPWe offer complimentary gift-wrapping for all purchases and special gifts in our signature Milli packaging.

HOME DELIVERY & SHIPPING We ship anywhere in the world! Have the newest collection of your favourite designer awaiting you at your vacation home, or getaway hotspot. When in town, we will personally drop off your purchases at your convenience.

RETURN POLICYIf one of your purchases fails to meet your expectations, we will be happy to repair the garment, or issue a credit on your account. Your satisfaction is our guarantee.

Visit us online at milli.ca.

www.facebook.com/MilliCanada

@MilliCanada

Milli Canada

Spring 2013 3

MILLI Sales Staff - Hamilton

MILLI Sales Staff - Toronto

Lucyna Bethune

Rosaria Giurdanella

Nancy Lo Greco

Claudia Pomeroy

Jan Simpson

Susan Simpson

Joyce Smuk

Eva Szakacs

Orly Weinberg

Emily Middleton 7

10

a new York Fashion Moment

8/9spring style Picks

springing into glam season

Michelle Kissoore

The art of effortless dressing

“Cucinelli maintains a brand that defines timelessness based on three simple points; luxury, comfort and most importantly, cashmere.” • Olivia Palermo.

Such testimonials pour easily from those who have discovered the philosopher-king of cashmere, Brunello Cucinelli. The foundation of his global empire dates back to his time as a young engineering student in Perugia, Italy where he developed the novel idea that dyed cashmere would be a great innovation (until then cashmere came only in neutral basic shades). Today, as he approaches the age of 60, Cucinelli’s business is as distinctive as his cashmeres, cottons and leathers.

His company is based in a restored medieval castle atop a 14th century hill-town called Solomeo in Umbria, a lesser known but equally stunning cousin of Tuscany. The majority of people who live in the town, which has been restored by Cucinelli over the past 30 years, are employed in the production of almost 870,000 garments annually.

“I don’t want to make anything you throw out,” Cucinelli was quoted in a 2012 interview, emphasizing his commitment to creating pieces that will stand the test of time in a woman’s wardrobe. Equally important, however, is Cucinelli’s commitment to ‘ethical capitalism’. “I have always dreamed of creating useful work for an important objective. I felt that profit for profit’s sake was not enough, and that there had to be a higher, collective purpose.”

That’s why in 1985 Cucinelli brought his business and the philosophy behind his ‘humanist’ enterprise to Solomeo. Offices and workshops were set up in the medieval fortress with its wooden beams, stone fireplaces, frescoed walls and brick floors. “Whoever works with us is a part of the company’s life, no matter what job they do; everyone knows their work is a key part of a greater whole.”

Solomeo had been a small abandoned village on the outskirts of Perugia where his fiancée Federica Benda lived. Today the company has two locations: the first, in the ancient village that has been restored to its ancient splendour after years of meticulous, patient restoration. It is composed of eight homes, a castle, a church, and a villa. The second, outside the small village, is a new industrial plant with a park and fruit orchard.

Cucinelli takes a head-to-toe approach capturing the essence of sprezzatura, an Italian term that North Americans know as effortless dressing. Cucinelli’s translation of sprezzatura encompasses layers of plush textures, scuffed cotton cargos, leather accessories and soft suede bombers with fox collars.

Brunello Cucinelli’s desire for simplicity is also expressed through his colour-stories, which often cater to monochrome neutral and soft colour palettes. This season, his refined nuances range from nude and stone

to warmer shades of terracotta, copper, and coffee with seasonal hues in slate, coral, and malachite green.

Silk and cotton are the stars of his Spring 2013 presentation, together with impalpable, flowing wool which appears dry, sablé, and fringe-like. Cropped jackets and tops demonstrate

the predominate use of this treatment. They are used to offset lustrous, glossy surfaces that resemble molten metal as their appearance is quite opaque and crisp appearing on shoulders and peplums of t-shirts. But as in any Brunello Cucinelli collection exemplifying contemporary sporty-chic elements, femininity must be accentuated – and this season it is highlighted through layers of ultra-light organza, muslin, and gauze.

By the way, if you have the opportunity to visit Umbria, put Solomeo on your intinerary for a taste of Cucinelli’s ‘Forum of the Arts’, which includes a theatre, amphitheatre and philosophers garden. There are often concerts and events, so be sure to call ahead to check out the schedule.

Sprezzatura!

Brunello Cucinelli talks about his

collection.

tinyurl.com/b9fppca

Bruno Cucinelli, pictured above, says of his collection: “It’s a lot easier to get dressed well for the evening, but it can be more challenging to get dressed properly for the daytime.”

At top, the Brunello Cucinelli factory overlooks scenic Umbria.

Spring 2013 5

BASLER has long since been recognized as a leading European brand for classic sportswear, but under the vision of Design Director, Brian Rennie, the brand has updated its sophisticated style with exceptional attention to delicate, feminine details. Brian has designed for celebrities and real women alike for decades and brings that signature style to BASLER. With gorgeous gowns, luxurious details, and an unparalleled sense of custom fi tting, BASLER’s updated ready-to-wear is uncompromising in workmanship and quality, though retaining its original sophisticated style.

BASLER goes bold with superior fabrics, intriguing cuts, and Design Director Brian Rennie’s sure sense of style.

www.basler-fashion.com

75+Years of Luxurious Elegance

BB 461 1-2 ad MILLI MAGAZINE SWOP2006_3v2.indd 1 18.02.13 09:47

10:45am

lunch

>FashionA behind-the-scenes buying tour of contemporary fashion houses.

Sun’s up, and there’s no time to waste.

It’s September, and Milli contemporary fashion

buyer Emily Middleton hits the ground running.

She’s shopping for spring fashions, and it’s not

even winter yet.

New York’s fashion houses are spread out

across Manhattan, so her day is filled with

cabs, subways and an unending array of

colours, textures, contours and styles from

leading contemporary designers.

As a buyer who also works the sales floor at

Milli, Emily is in tune with local tastes. Keeping

an eye on global trends (masculine cuts are the

here!), Emily focuses on colours and styles she

knows will resonate with women in Hamilton

and Toronto. Let’s follow her through a typical

buying day in New York City.

Emily Middleton joined the Milli team five years ago, learning the trade secrets of great buying from Milli herself.A New York Moment

Breakfast is on the go, as Emily makes her way along Fifth Avenue to start the day. She’s heading for her first appointment at L’agence, a relative newcomer to the fashion world – and to Milli.

She reaches the landmark Starret-Lehigh building, a full-block freight terminal that is now home to showrooms and design houses.

In L’Agence’s offices, Emily is greeted by her rep who whisks her through a maze of administrative cubicles to a contemporary showroom at the rear. The showroom design offers the perfect neutral backdrop to

8am

9am

show off the Spring lines.

L’Agence has been around only since 2008, but Emily loves what they are doing. “Their line is young looking and somehow sexy, with beautiful materials and fresh designs that appeal to a wide range of women,” she says. “Their silks are some of the softest I’ve felt.”

As the collection is rolled out, Emily’s busy taking notes. She takes pictures of items she may want to buy as the model shows them off. Today, there’s one dress in particular that stands out – one that epitomizes the special flair L’Agence founder Margaret Maldonado brings to this label.

The dress offers up a fresh approach that she hasn’t seen elsewhere. The lines and

the collar give you a ’20s feel, but as the model turns she can see it’s backless. And in stripes, all the rage this Spring. Beautiful! A must-have.

“Like so many pieces here, this dress is elegant, pretty, romantic.”

With little time to waste, Emily completes her notes, thanks her hosts and heads into Chelsea.

The Valentino red showroom overlooks the popular Bryant Park and NYC library in the heart of midtown Manhattan. Emily is not surprised by what she is seeing here - Valentino tends toward the whimsical and Spring 2013 is no exception.

“Their Spring 2013 collection is amazing – the signature reds of course, with bows, rosettes, a mixing of patterns and even inlays.”

There’s no time for a formal lunch break. Fortunately M Missoni is located in the same building as Valentino Red. A quick elevator ride up to the 26th floor, and Emily is thrust into a very different world – a sea of knitwear, mosaics of colours and zig-zag patterns.

M Missoni, a premium Italian luxury knitwear line, is a classic, a line that Milli has offered customers for a long time. “Missoni is distinctive, and they’re always doing something new. It’s beautiful quality. It’s different. Not everyone can do multi-coloured in thin zig-zag patterns and make it work, but Missoni can.”

The Spring collection has a few surprises, and Emily makes her decisions before scooting off to the next appointment.

The Helmut Lang showroom offers up great views of the Hudson River just

continued >

2pm

End of the day

Giorgio Armani Corporation 114 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011 T. 212.209.3589 F.212.209.3789Milli’s Mag (4C) Position: Full Page Insertion: SPRING2013 Due Date: N/A Trim: 8.375” x 10.375” Bleed: 8.75” x 10.75” Specs: DIGITAL

A New York (Fashion) Moment continued

4pmsteps from the High Line (thehighline.org/), an elevated public park built on a historic freight line above Manhattan’s west side streets. Their showroom/offices are located in a renovated warehouse in the kitschy meat-packing district. The reception area is as edgy as the label - a cross between art deco and Mad Men, in taupes and whites with a tufted extended-length couch that sits below an understated Helmut Lang logo on the wall.

The Helmut Lang line is hot. “They don’t advertise because they don’t have to.” Founded by Austrian fashion designer Helmut Lang (he hasn’t been involved with it since 2005), the label is known for its simple but refined designs. Their theme for Spring has a bit of an Atlantis feel, and Emily finds it somewhat reminiscent of renowned British designer Alexander McQueen.

“Lang worked with a tattoo artist in developing patterns for the Spring 2013 collection. That’s the kind of approach they take. Helmut Lang never fails to surprise.”

Emily lingers here longer than in most of the fashion houses today because there’s so much to see and consider. But with time running short, she wraps up her notes and picture taking, and prepares to move on.

If you love shoes (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?) this is paradise! stuart Weitzman’s new NYC showroom is room after room of shoes on display, separated by glass walls so that the array seems endless.

The varieties of shapes and colours are endless - but hot for Spring are open toes, clear heels, a variety of materials, and as one would expect, plenty of sandals. “There’s lots of mixed media – I’m seeing plastics, shoes that almost look clear, jelly shoes. There’s a real ’80s feel here.”

Also common for Spring are a variety of heights - flat ballet shoes, little wedges, big wedges, platforms. Another theme Emily sees are cutaways - laser-cut patterns out of the sides of shoes.

Time to kick back with contemporary chic - Emily joins robert rodriguez at one of her favourite Manhattan spots ( http://www.toddenglish.com/the_plaza/) for a well-deserved drink and a bite.

PS: Come see the results of her work before they’re all gone!

8 Spring 2013

What colour should women be sure to have in their wardrobes this season?

This year offers up an amazing palette of colours –

fuchsia pink and cobalt blue are two outstanding

colour pops. A colour that really transitions winter through

the upcoming fair weather is Minty Turquoise. It’s a fresh

colour that lightens a winter look while inviting more

vibrancy as we head into spring collections. It’s been

a while since we’ve seen this colour, but I can tell you

women will be in love with it!

Of the contemporary collections you buy, which two designers stand out this season?

L’Agence is a beautiful new-to-Milli collection.

The fabrics are fluid and luxurious which elevate

her [designer Margaret Maldonado] spin on classic

styling to a unique feminine and romantic theme. This

season think Great Gatsby meets Country Club casual.

Helmut Lang design is always an industry trend setter.

Their team is young, cool and forward moving, creating

a contemporary collection that is the epitomy of urban

chic. Their mixed media artistry and adventurous

blend of structure with soft draping leaves women

with covetable pieces and looks.

if you had to choose one trend for spring 2013, what would it be?

Go bold!! Whether its wearing both top and bottom

volume, strong graphic and bright coloured

prints or flirting with more masculine shapes and lines, the

trend this season is making a statement with your personal

style. There is a sense of freedom, wearing your fashion

with conviction!

Do you make final selections for your buys based on trend or customer preference?

As buyers we don’t always follow the rules.

We take chances and buy collections that push

boundaries and ultimately push our client’s personal style

and sense of self. Though I know what my clients love to

wear, my hope is to inspire and reflect their ever changing

and evolving selves through fashion. So there is always a

balance between what is trending, and knowing what the

customer will identify with. I tend to be a bit of a risk-taker,

and never ignore my impulse or intuitive response to a

collection. sometimes you just know!

Q

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Spring is in the air. Be bold. Be bright. Be you!Milli contemporary fashion buyer Emily Middleton shares some of her style picks for the coming season.

Spring 2013 9

“Pure elegance marks this

easy silk poncho,

while printed satin sleeves

and a neckline trim

add an exotic edge

to an ultimately

flattering piece.”

Spring is in the air. Be bold. Be bright. Be you!Milli contemporary fashion buyer Emily Middleton shares some of her style picks for the coming season.

It’s in the Cut: The low v-neck cut will show off sun-kissed skin this summer. Dress by Paule Ka.

Florals, brighter the better. While the petals and blossoms make their way every spring, this summer it’s about neon florals and being bold. Dress on left by Erdem.Dress on right by Valentino.Bag and shoe by Valentino.

Sole experience - this season brings see-through pumps along with plastics and bling. Shoe by Valentino

Fabulous fuchsia is definitely on the palette this spring.Dress by Arthur Mendonça.

Yellow. This colour doesn’t have anyone slowing down this summer. If anything it’s filled with youth and energy. Jacket by Cinzia Rocca.

Black and white is a chic staple for the season. Dress: Milli Private Label. Bag: Nancy Gonzalez.

Milli returns to the Most Wanted runway

a cureIt’s called Most Wanted for good reason - everyone who’s anyone wants an invitation.

The year’s most exclusive fundraising affair puts Milli back in the spotlight as Toronto’s leading entrepreneurs, executives, benefactors and stylish socialites come together to share in their passion for fashion, and strong commitment to finding a cure for cancer.

The May 9 event, being held at the posh Eagle’s Nest Golf Club in Vaughan, has raised more than $300,000 over the past six years for St. Margaret Hospital Gynecological Cancer Care programs. The evening features cocktails and a 40-minute fashion show followed by dinner and an after-party.

Lead organizer Erika Larva said getting Milli back into the fashion show was the #1 priority for the event organizing committee.

“Milli did the show in 2010, and everyone agreed they wanted Milli back. We have had many great fashion presenters in our six years, but Milli is by far the best. Milli delivers the WOW factor. And that’s what this event is all about.”

Erika says Milli’s passion for quality and beauty from world-leading designers strikes a perfect chord with the crowd attending Most Wanted.

Milli Gould says she and her team are thrilled to be returning to the event. “We get involved in only a select number of events because we won’t settle for anything less than perfection. The quality of the people involved in this event mirrors our values, and that makes it very special to be involved.”

Event founders Jim De Gasperis and Marco Guglietti are committed to this annual event. “We plan on holding this event year after year and increasing our donations to this worthy cause that touches so many of us,” they said in a published interview from last year’s event.

If the organizers have their way, Milli will be a permanent fixture.

There’s a full slate of galas and events that raise money for worthwhile community organizations across Hamilton, Toronto and beyond.

gla

m sea

son!

SPRING into theMilli salutes the tireless individuals who give of their time and effort to make these gala events such a success, year after year. Please come out\ and support these organizations, and be sure to show off your great fashion sense. Milli’s expert staff will help you look your best for any event.

March 18 - JAzz UP THE WINTER BLUESHamilton Good Shepherd Centre GalaPut winter behind you with an exceptional evening of hot jazz, cool blues and great company at the beautiful Ancaster Mill. goodshepherdcentres.ca/jazz/index.html

April 6 - PROM 2013 - Royal Ontario MuseumJoin hundreds of party-goers for the hottest fundraiser in 2013! Get ready to party like they did back in Roman times! In support of Young Patrons’ Circle at the ROM. www.rom.on.ca/en/node/7939

April 16 - STARLIGHT GALA 2013 The Fairmont Royal York Hotel The 18th Annual Starlight Children’s Foundation Fundraising Gala promises a magical and moving evening at the Fairmount Royal York in Toronto. starlightcanada.org/gala/

April 27 - VILLA ITALIA 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Michelangelo’s Banquet Centre, Hamilton ET Canada Co-Host Rick Campanelli is MC for this 10th Anniversary Gala. For ticket information email celebration@villaitalia.ca.

May 9 - AN ARTISTS’ AFFAIR - The Carlu An entertaining evening in support of the Al & Malka Green Artists’ Health Centre at Toronto Western Hospital, and Taflemusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir. tgwhf.ca/sites/artistsaffair/event.asp

May 11 - TORONTO BENEFIT GALA 2013The Ritz Carlton HotelMichael ‘Pinball’ Clemons and Andrea Case MC this annual Gala that supports scholarships at The University of The West Indies. uwitorontogala.com

May 11 - Hummingbird Ball 2013 Carnevale VeniceCarmen’s Banquet Centre, HamiltonThe 12th annual Hummingbird Ball celebrates the history and culture of the magical and mysterious Carnevale. Fundraising proceeds from the Ball and raffle support the Hematology Inpatient and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit

at Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre. To purchase tickets or tables tinyurl.com/a4beuu8

June 8 - Crystal BallMercedez-Benz BurlingtonThis is the 13th annual fundraiser in support of Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital Foundation. For ticket information, contact Jenna Vaicius at jvaicius@jbmh.com

June 9 - TORONTO TASTE - Royal Ontario MuseumIn support of Second Harvest, this is the original must-attend event for gourmands. This one-night gourmet graze, which kicks off the summer season, is an unforgettable evening of glamour, indulgence and extravagance. secondharvest.ca/node/1098

Valentino

Akris

Fashioning Fashioning

At top, the Most Wanted organizing committee from left: Marialisa and Romeo De Gasperis, Teresa and Andrew De Gasperis, Lina and Jim De Gasperis, Michela and Marco Guglietti.

Bottom, Fashion TV’s Jeanne Beker is expected to return as MC in 2013.

German fashion designer Steffen Schraut

has been crafting styles for women since

2001 that are minimalist, yet reveal an

extraordinary attention to detail. His stylish

collection, new to Milli in 2013, combines

sophistication and femininity.

This Italian-made collection offers a unique blend

of knitwear, prêt-à-porter and accessories. Sarah

Pacini, new to Milli this year, has been built on the

philosophy that fashion is an art and a creative

force for expressing one’s self. Look for plenty of

whites in silky shirts this season, along with Sarah

Pacini sculptured weaves.

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Hamilton OfficeEffort Square105 Main Street East, 7th FloorHamilton, ON L8N 1G6905-523-0000

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Burlington OfficeThe Taylor Leibow Building3410 South Service Road, Suite 103Burlington, ON L7N 3T2905-637-9959

Friendly, professional service for your “baby”.

LOCKE STREET TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE! • Two locations to serve you

• General service

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87 Locke St. South905-522-8679

260 Locke St. S.905 527 4563

Hamilton, ON • lockeauto.com

www.Valentino.com

VA SS13_Milli_11x7.9375.indd 1 2/21/13 5:11 PM