I once thought that I met the love of my life on Chatroulette.

Yes, the website that is notorious for being filled with men jerking off (for the record, this boy was fully clothed).

It was definitely not one of my proudest moments, and it got a lot of interesting feedback from my friends, but for some reason I was convinced that this boy was The One.

Obviously things didn’t work out, and I thought to myself, “How stupid was I thinking that I would meet my soulmate on the Internet?”

Now, Internet dating isn’t something new…but it is usually accompanied by the stigma that only desperate, anti-social 40-year-olds engage in it.

You would imagine my surprise when I found out that a bunch of people my age (21) were using the website Plentyoffish.com (POF), and that one of my coworkers claimed to have found the love of his life off that site.

POF is free, based in Vancouver, and boasts that 20,000 users sign up each day. In 2009, the site launched a contest with Lady Gaga, which allowed single members to go together and meet the singer during her “Fame Monster” tour. Gaga even promoted the website in her “Telephone” video with Beyonce by flashing a screenshot as she left the “Prison for Bitches.”

So, after a very bad breakup, and way too many tears, I decided to try it out for myself. I mean, if Gaga approves, it must be okay, right? I figured, if anything, I could always say that my membership was for “research purposes only.”

The hardest part about creating an account was making a profile. How would I sell myself to this website? Which photos would I use? How do I want people to perceive me? The “If your profile is really lame it won’t matter how good your message is” on the “Edit Profile” section just added to the pressure.

Luckily, POF gave me plenty of tips on how to be “successful” and “not waste my time” such as talking about my hobbies, talking about my goals/aspirations, talking about myself and what makes me unique, and my taste in music.

I wrote a brief summary, which apparently wasn’t long enough for the site, so I was forced to write more. I uploaded a picture of Megan Fox for jokes, and surprisingly got several messages immediately from creepy men who wanted to know what my tattoos were of.

So far, this website was exactly what I expected it to be…awful.

I finally put a photo of myself up in the hopes that I wouldn’t find anyone I actually knew personally on the site.

In came more messages; some witty, some cheesy, but most creepy.

I decided I should start messaging the people I found interesting, rather than waiting to see if anyone worthwhile would message me. I quickly found out that you could see which users have “viewed” you and if your messages have been read, unread, or deleted.

In case you were not getting the feedback you wanted, the site is quick to keep your hopes up by telling you, “Hey if you see unread deleted don’t be disappointed, normally 1 in 3 messages get responded to. We find a lot of people read your profile before reading your message.”

I found myself obsessively checking to see if users had read my messages, and whether or not they had been deleted, or how long they would take to message me back. Then I realized how desperate I had become from this stupid website, and finally decided to hide my profile, to prevent anyone else from contacting me.

I did end up meeting some interesting people who I still talk to on a regular basis. Some of them shared some mutual friends with me, while others were complete strangers.

Though it’s less taboo than it used to be, meeting people online is still an iffy topic with some people. I know my oh-so-traditional Chinese father would not approve, even if I were to meet exactly the type of guy he wants me to marry. But what we have to realize is that mostly everything we do is online now: our banking, reading the paper, paying our bills and communicating with others, to name a few.

I’m not condoning online dating, nor condemning it. But if you do choose to try it out, make sure to be smart about it, and stay safe. Do not give out your personal information out right away, and if you plan on meeting up with someone for the first time, make sure it’s in a public place, and that you’re with someone else.

It’s just like how going home with a random stranger you met at a bar is unsafe (even though plenty of people still do it).

Either way, whether online or in real-life, you’ll always have to weed through plenty of d*cks (sometimes literally) before you actually find a keeper.

These scantily clad prostitots seem to be infiltrating the streets more than ever. Blame Miley Cyrus. Now that she’s proclaiming that she “can’t be tamed,” the 17-year-old is giving a big “F-YOU” to Disney by wearing the most revealing clothes possible, grinding against poles, giving lap dances to gay men, and engaging in lesbian-type behaviour.

Of course, Cyrus is quick to reply to all the negative press against her, by telling the media she’s “not trying to be slutty,” but rather she feels comfortable wearing a “little less” because she works really hard to be fit. She claimed that she was just “rocking out” with her backup dancer, and that her new wardrobe is meant to match her new record.

As for the lap dance, Cyrus’ father, Billy ray, simply said, “It’s what people her age do.”

If the parent of one of the biggest pop stars since Britney thinks this behaviour is okay, what kind of example are they setting for other parents?

Clearly, not a good one, considering that young girls everywhere are mimicking Miley’s every move. Not only are skirts getting shorter and shirts getting lower, but the behaviourisms of these young girls are getting worse too. Girls are engaging in sexual activities at a very young age, and teen pregnancies are more prevalent than ever (just watch MTV’s Sixteen and Pregnant for proof).

Miley’s not the only influence though. Gossip Girl’s Taylor Momsen is also running around in ripped stockings, garter belts, and raccoon-eyed makeup. To add to her “bad-ass” look, a cigarette is often seen hanging from the 16-year-old’s mouth. Momsen was also recently photographed in such a short bandage dress that her tampon string was visible.

Considering that these child stars were forced to grow up quickly, its no surprise that they’re in touch with their own sexuality at a young age. Let’s be serious, with all those hormones raging through your body, you were most likely thinking about sex when you were 17 too.

Like Dolly Parton said, “I remember when I was horny and young.”

But then again, Twilight’s Taylor Lautner was 17 when he showed off his shirtless self in all its glory in New Moon. Why was there no “media controversy” there? Somehow, the media has made it okay for boys to show off their bodies, but are quick to deem girls “sluts” when they show off theirs.

Ironically, boys aren’t showing off their bodies, even though it’s socially acceptable to do so. How many young male celebrities can you name who are flaunting their rock-hard bodies to the media? Perhaps celebrities like Miley and Taylor are simply rebelling against the media’s standards and trying to equalize themselves with men.

Unfortunately, prostitots are too young to really understand their feminist rebellion, and are probably just dressing, or rather, undressing, for attention.

With winter approaching, it’s time to ditch those flats and opt for more sensible footwear for the weather: boots!

The past winters have seen an overload of Uggs and Fuggs (fake UGGs). Thank goodness, we now have a wide array of fashionable boots available both online and in-stores. With so many different styles at various price points, it’s easy to find the right boots for work, evening, and weekends.

Here’s a quick guide on how to find your perfect fit!

All the boots mentioned in this article are available at these retail stores:
zappos.comshopbop.comninewest.comstevemadden.com

WORK

Unless you work in the fashion industry, where really anything goes, opt for trendy, but subdued footwear for the workplace. That way you can easily take your look from day to night, and won’t feel like you’re wearing your “work shoes” when you go out for drinks later. Comfort is also key, because let’s face it: you may be sitting in an office all day long, but that walk from the subway station can be killer when wearing extravagant shoes. Try boots with a shorter, thicker heel. Your soles will thank you.

Taller women tend to have bigger feet, but a spectator boot can make them look smaller. The two-toned look will give the illusion that your feet are tinier than they actually are. These Giuseppe Zanotti booties are perfect for the workplace, and will make any outfit look chic.

If you’re petite, you may want to go for a higher heel. Opt for a boot with a platform, to avoid your feet slipping too far to the front of the shoe.  Marc by Marc Jacobs has a great pair of suede peep-toe shooties (that’s shoe meets bootie). Stylish and understated elegance, what more could you ask for?

Curvier women should go for a boot with a pointy toe to elongate the body. These Nine West knee-high boots are work-appropriate, and the leather and suede mix add texture and variety to your outfit.

Giuseppe Zanotti booties (Zappos), Marc by Marc Jacobs shooties (ShopBop), Nine West knee-highs.

EVENING/GOING-OUT

Footwear is often the highlight of a memorable outfit. In fact, I often start with my footwear, and then choose my clothes to achieve the look that I want. When it comes to evening, you’ll want to choose a pair of show-stopping boots that’ll “break necks” (a term my shoe-loving friend uses when he spots an exclusive pair of “kicks”).

Curvy girls can try a corset boot. The lace-up look instantly adds sex-appeal to your outfit, and will also make your legs look narrower and thinner. Lady Gaga wore an extravagant thigh-high pair from KTZ’s Fall 2009 collection, but if you’re not feeling as daring, try Sigerson Morrison’s version. The back laces add just enough drama to your outfit, without looking ridiculous.  Added bonus: you can adjust them to fit your calves perfectly.

If you’re tall, and have been blessed with perfectly toned thighs (or have been working yourself to the brink of death at the gym), the over-the-knee boot is your best bet. The “must-have” shoe of the season, these “Pretty Woman” boots have been seen on big-named celebrities like Rihanna and Blake Lively. Kane’s thigh-high boots will be sure to impress, especially with the studded garter strap, and zipper embellishment.

Petite girls can go for an ankle-boot worthy of a rockstar. Try the Alexander McQueen Faithful bootie: an open-toed boot inspired by the motorcycle jacket. Pair it with your feminine frocks to create a badass look, or go all out with leather leggings, and a sequined blazer. They can be worn zipped up or folded down, and the purple sheen gives you a nice break from basic black.

Sigerson Morrison corset (ShopBop), Kane thigh-high (ShopBop), Alexander McQueen open-toe (Zappos).

WEEKEND

After a long work-week and several fabulous nights out, your main priority will be comfort on the weekends. But don’t grab your UGGs or Hunters just yet – there are plenty of other styles that are comfortable enough to run around in, while still looking stylish.

Petite girls can wear the classic riding boot. These boots look great with jeans, leggings, or even skirts. The flat soles will give you a break from those heels (and allow you to embrace your petite size!). Michael by Michael Kors has a great pair of riding boots with gold-toned hardware at the sides.

Curvy women should look for a comfortable slouch boot. They’re perfect for hard-to-fit calves, and you can adjust them to highlight your most flattering spots. Try these Steve Madden Bonanza boots: they can be paired with anything: from leggings, to jeans, to dresses to skirts. Can’t live without your heels? Marc Jacobs has a pair from his Marc by Marc line with ruffled elastic banding at the top. The heel is only 3.5 inches, meaning you’ll still be able to run around without breaking your ankle.

A riding boot, or a slouch boot will look great on tall girls (the slouch adds volume to the slimmest of calves), but if you’re feeling more dramatic, you can try a flat over-the-knee boot. They can be worn over slim pants, leggings or pants. Want to look even taller? Match the colour of your boots to your choice of bottoms. These See by Chloe boots have tiny studs to add a little extra oomph to your look.

And for those of you who love crazy, over-the-top footwear, these Alexander McQueen “alien shoes” from his Spring 2010 collection will make the perfect “bookshelf boot.” Standing at 10-inches tall, McQueen’s boots are an investment piece, and they are so pretty that you won’t regret splurging on them.

Michael by Michael Kors riding (Zappos), Steve Madden slouch, Marc by Marc Jacobs elastic band (ShopBop), See by Chloe studded (Zappos).

START SHOPPING NOW:

Balmain Ready-to-Wear A/W 2009, Paris Fashion Week

In the tenth grade, my friends and I had to dress up in 1940s garb for our history class. I remember how mortified I was wearing my mom’s vintage blazer with obnoxiously large shoulder pads, thinking that my outfit would be mistaken for a Halloween costume of Frankenstein.

Little did I know, five years later I would be scrambling to find that same blazer.

That’s the beauty of fashion. Designers are constantly returning back to trends, causing us to search for clothes we had pushed to the dusty corners of our closets.

The return of the bold shoulder was one of the most popular fall runway looks. From the sequined peaked look at Balmain to Louis Vuitton’s balloon-puffed version and Dolce and Gabbana’s furry silhouette, designers were determined to prove that dramatic shoulders were back, and better than ever.

Dolce & Gabbana A/W 09, Milan Fashion Week

Shoulder pads were first introduced in the 1930s by Italian fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli, who placed them into her thick sweaters. In 1932, Adrian Greenberg, a costume designer known for dressing actress Greta Garbo, created a wide-shouldered white organdy dress with ruffled sleeves and a narrow waist for Joan Crawford in “Letty Lynton.” The design was copied in the U.S., as the wide, padded shoulders made hips look smaller. Macy’s department store in New York reportedly sold 500,000 similar dresses.

The statement shoulder was later revived in the 1980s, as a form of power dressing. It was highly popularized by actress Joan Collins in the soap opera “Dynasty” and by the late Michael Jackson with his military-style jackets. During this time, shoulder pads became bigger and broader, some even reaching the size of dinner plates, before the trend died in the early nineties.

Now, fashion-conscious celebrities such as Rihanna, Beyoncé and Lady Gaga are sporting the bold shoulder. Miss J Alexander has even adopted the look for the latest cycle of America’s Next Top Model, his shoulder pads inflating with each model eliminated.

The look can easily be adapted into your work or your party wardrobe. If you simply want to ease into the trend, try a puff-sleeve blouse paired with a pair of black cigarette pants. Feeling brave? Slip on a dress with crystal embellished shoulders a la Balmain paired with sky-high pumps. With so many different options at a range of price points, you’re sure to find your perfect fit.

I’ll be sticking to the beloved blazer, especially after my moment of glory at a fashion publication. “Do those have shoulder pads?” asked one of the editors. I answered yes, and he grinned from ear to ear. “Fabulous.”

SHOP THIS TREND:

Topshop Cosmic Shoulder Dress, $85 CAD

Derurcuny Pintuck blouse with puff sleeves, $416 CAD

Bebe Ornate Puff Sleeve Jacket, $180 CAD

Christian Dior show as part of Paris Haute-Couture Fashion Week A/W 2009

By: Madelyn Chung

Celebrities have a love/hate relationship with undergarments. First it was no panties. Now, underwear has become outerwear.

We’ve seen Lady Gaga prance down the streets sans pants, with her lingerie shamelessly exposed to the world. Her reasoning: “My grandmother is basically blind, but she can make out the lighter parts, like my skin and hair. She says, ‘I can see you, because you have no pants on.’ So I’ll continue to wear no pants so that my grandma can see me.”

Rihanna took a less blatant route, recently sporting Rodarte’s laser-cut thigh-highs paired with denim cutoffs while out in New York City. Moschino, Rock and Republic and Max Azria are just some of the fashion houses that have sent models down the runway in lacy slips, silk robes, and visible bras and panties.

With such gorgeous lingerie on the market, it’s a shame to hide it under layers of clothing. It’s no wonder that celebrities and designers are choosing to show off their undergarments to the world.

Lady Gaga at the 20th Annual MuchMusic Video Awards Gift Lounge in Toronto, Canada.

Underwear has evolved from being a health garment to a shape definer, to finally, a fashion must-have. But it wasn’t until 1985 when Madonna’s signature look of the bra as outerwear was popularized in “Desperately Seeking Susan,” that the trend first emerged. In the 1990s, she wore the famous cone-bra corset designed by Jean Paul Gaultier during her Blonde Ambition tour.

The trend was revisited in 2006 at D&G’s spring ready-to-wear show, where Domenico Dolce and Stefan Gabbana created a lacy all-white collection. The sheer clothing put the undergarments on display and made for pretty-yet-sexy dressing.

More recently, Christian Dior’s Fall 2009 couture show was inspired by the behind-the-scenes documentary photographs from more than half a century ago when Christian Dior dressed his cabine of mannequins for shows. The collection featured sorbet-coloured palette paired with flesh-toned undergarments.

Madonna on stage during her Sticky And Sweet Tour at The O2 on July 4, 2009 in London, England.

The brand’s designer, John Galliano, threw a beige corset over a raspberry suit dress, paired a zebra-print petticoat with a flesh-toned girdle and thigh-high stockings, and tulle skirts with boudoir-esque bras. Galliano even went as far as making the shoe straps appear like bra straps.

So if you are willing to rock this trend, take note from Galliano, and be sure to pair your underwear with enough outerwear to avoid looking like you forget to get dressed. Think heavy cardigans paired with lacy slips, corsets with jeans or tulle skirts, and, if you dare to go pantless, high-waisted underwear with a pair of tights and a long tuxedo blazer should save you from being mistaken for a hooker.

SHOP:

Rodarte leather cut-out thigh highs, $1059 CAD

La Senza Dreamlegs lace-top stockings, $16.50 CAD

Topshop Animal sequined high knickers, $46 CAD

La Senza Ultra Soft Solid Slip, $34.50 CAD

Yves Saint Laurent Spring 2009 Ready to Wear

By: Madelyn Chung

The sexiest shoe on the market this summer is the caged heel.

Similar to the gladiator, the S&M-style shoe’s dramatic nature is not recommended for those in company of a foot fetishist – the image of the foot trapped within the cage may be too much to bear.

And while some may compare these heels to a chicken coop, though a very fashionable one at that, this trend has been seen on some of the biggest stars in Hollywood, including Fergie, Ashley Olsen and Beyoncé.

It made several appearances at the MTV Movie Awards this year, with some wearers opting for more showy versions, while others went for subtlety.

The caged heel was first seen on Yves Saint Laurent’s runway for Spring 2009. Its strong, architectural, and futuristic design combined the gladiator with the look of a boot. Since then, many noted designers have incorporated the caged heel in their collections, including Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Jimmy Choo.

The trend has also made its way into mass retail stores everywhere, and can be found at affordable prices at Aldo and Town Shoes.

You can wear this heel to toughen up your summer dresses, or pair it with another one of this summer’s biggest trends: ripped, distressed jeans a la Balmain.

Will you dare to wear the caged heel?

Shop:

Calvin Klein at Town Shoes $130

Yves Saint Laurent Cage Platform Sandals, $695

Aldo, $120

Having trouble finding that perfect summer staple for your wardrobe?

You might want to consider picking up this season’s must-have: the romper.

The trend emerged last summer and made its way onto Derek Lam, Betsey Johnson, and Alexander Wang’s runways this season. Gossip Girl’s Blake Lively is a fan, recently sporting a teal-blue ADAM romper at the CW Network Party.

The romper first appeared in 1910 as playwear for younger children, particularly boys. It is believed to have originated from the bloomer, and is known as the first “true” play suit. The romper was revolutionary in that it was the first piece of clothing that wasn’t restrictive to children and allowed for several hours of unlimited play. In the 1950s, dressier rompers were developed so that they could be worn at more formal occasions.

Now, fashionable stars like Mary-Kate Olsen, Taylor Momsen and Lauren Conrad are wearing the romper. Unlike its more casual cousin, the overall, rompers create a more sophisticated, chic, and perfectly pulled together look. They’re extremely versatile, easy to wear and comfortable, not to mention flattering for every body type.

The romper is available in all sorts of fabrics and prints, and can be worn to the office, on the street, or out to dinner.

Pair your romper with gladiator sandals and a skinny belt to cinch the waist for the daytime or dress it up with high heels and some statement jewelry. Rompers also make a perfect cover-up for the beach. Just add a headscarf and flip-flops and you’ll be ready to go.

Happy shopping!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Dot Spots Jumpsuit, $325

Roots Kate Bamboo Jersey Jumpsuit, $68

American Apparel Tri-blend halter romper, $32

My mission: to see Iman live in the flesh and to hug Sunny Fong, my favourite contestant on the show.

In a desperate attempt to get in, I begged the girl guarding the door to the show, telling her I was a volunteer, but I just didn’t have a shirt. After much pleading, she finally allowed me to go through.

Determined, I marched onto the runway (after the show of course), hoping to catch a glimpse of Iman. I didn’t spot her, but the name Coco Rocha taped to one of the chairs caught my eye. I turned around, and there she was in her supermodel glory.

Her red hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail, and she was dressed in Greta Constantine. Her black Louboutin pumps completed her look.

I approached her, starstruck. She was so tall, so glamorous. I had never felt so un-model-like in my life. She kindly allowed me to take a photo of her, and told me how much she loved the dress Sunny made for her on the last PRC episode.

After thanking her profusely, I walked off in a daze, only to see PRC’s Jeff MacKinnon and Baylor Orlando sitting second row. I quickly snapped a photo of the two, and told Jeff I was on his side in his on-screen battle with fellow contestant, Genevieve Graham. He responded with his signature laugh.

Satisfied with myself, I ventured backstage, this time with a filthy volunteer shirt I found off the ground. Seeing my shirt, a man handed me lube to oil up the models legs and feet. I was disgusted because I hate feet, but I did what I had to do… and it was worth it. Soon after, the supermodel I had been waiting for entered the room. She was even more radiant in person, and everyone froze as soon as she appeared. She oozed fierceness (Tyra’s got nothing on her).

I was far too intimidated to approach Iman, but I did manage to snap her photo.

The next day, the PRC gods were on my side. I managed to bump into Kim Cathers (who was surprisingly very tall and quite stunning in person) in the tents at Nathan Phillip Square, and Jessica Biffi and Adejoké Taiwo on Queen St. sipping Starbucks. All three happily obliged my request for a photo, making my camera and me very PRC-happy.

But there was still no sight of Sunny – I was beginning to lose hope. That was, until the Carlie Wong show, when my prayers were finally answered. There he was, front row, sitting in between Baylor and last year’s PRC winner, Evan Biddell.
When the show finally ended, I bolted towards him. He was as sweet as I imagined and just as soft-spoken as he is on the show. Although I didn’t hug him, I did get a photo with his arm around me.

Mission complete…until next season.

For more PRC info visit: runway.globaltv.com