Renegades Outfit

The rain in Vancouver won’t stop me from dressing up and getting that perfect #ootd post. Especially today as I got to rock this edgy street style look. I am obsessed with this outfit. I wore my H&M “Renegades” top tucked into my comfortable Aritzia skirt. There’s something about wearing a leather jacket over your shoulders that gives you a chic and powerful feeling. Also, styling chunky necklaces with t-shirts is always a good choice! I wore my H&M Coachella-inspired necklace with this top. Don’t let the rain stop you from going out in style.

Shop My Look:

Top: H&M (Renegades top is sold out.) Shop this similar item.

Skirt: Aritzia

Jacket: Faux Leather Jacket from Dynamite Clothing

Necklace: H&M (sold out). Shop similar item here.

Boots: Urban Planet

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Keep up with Davneet Dhillon via Instagram.

A.M to the P.M… funk.

Work. School. Gym. This Fall semester is draining but my days are going by quicker than ever! With five classes, working in Gastown, Vancouver and still making time to get a workout in, I’ve never been so exhausted and happy to be in bed by the end of my long days.

It’s definitely not easy and I wouldn’t recommend taking five third/fourth year courses if you’re someone who can’t handle a large workload and/or long commutes to work afterwards.

Here’s what my day-to-day routine looks like:

I typically begin my mornings with a protein shake. Some days I’m able to make a morning boot camp class at House of Gains, and other days I get my morning shake ready and go to the gym later in the evening.

For my shakes, I fill up my bottle about halfway with water, add a scoop of chocolate protein and one teaspoon of peanut butter, just because I love peanut butter and it gives it that extra flavour. You can substitute milk for water, however, it does become heavier. I prefer water because it’s easier to drink, especially in the mornings.

I tend to not wear much makeup during weekdays, usually because I don’t have time to put on a full face of makeup. I have lash extensions done which saves me a whole lot of time getting ready! (The best decision you’ll ever make.)

My minimal makeup routine consists of the following products: Smashbox concealer, ABH eyebrow dip, lipstick and blush, if I’m feeling extra! Concealer saves my life every morning. Once my makeup is done, I’m out that door and not home till late.

My days are spent at both Kwantlen Polytechnic University, where I’m majoring in Journalism, or in Gastown, where I work as a Social Media Coordinator at a private institution. As you can tell, my days are long and I’m always on the go.

Time management and organization is key. These two tips will get you through your long days as they do for me. Since I take the skytrain to work, I have a good 40 minutes to work on homework or write blog posts on my iPad mini 4!

As soon as I get home from school and work, I rush to the gym and get my 30-45 minute workout in. My time at the gym typically depends on how tired I am. By the time I get home I usually only have time to eat and sleep.

Some days I’ll have time to catch up on light-reading or if I have a lot of homework to do, then I’ll be making a trip to Tim Hortons for a large black coffee. There are days where I get a max of five hours to sleep, but I’ve always been the morning type— you get used to it.

Feel like giving up? Read my previous blog post on How to stay Motivated this Fall Semester.

JASON PILLAY: JCI FASHION GRADUATE AND STYLIST

Born in Edmonton, Alberta and raised in Vancouver, BC, Jason Pillay is a fashion stylist who also works in the film industry and manages a small dance group.

“I ALWAYS LOVED SEEING WHAT PEOPLE WORE AT RED CARPET EVENTS, FASHION AND AWARD SHOWS. EVEN WATCHING MUSIC VIDEOS, I WAS INTRIGUED BY THE CREATIVE DIRECTION.”

Jason enrolled at John Casablancas Institute for the Fashion Business and Creative Arts Program in 2014 to further educate his knowledge in fashion and seek opportunities in the industry.

“I ALWAYS HAD AN INTEREST IN FASHION AND KNEW JCI WOULD BE THE RIGHT PLACE FOR ME.”

Before beginning his journey with JCI, Jason took empowerment and personal growth courses at workshops to experiment what career path he wanted to take. Enrolling at JCI helped Jason narrow down his options and he knew exactly what direction he wanted to take in the fashion industry—styling.

At first, Jason didn’t know exactly what a “stylist” was— but he knew he enjoyed putting outfits together, shopping and helping his friends and family select clothes for their wardrobe.

“I HAD A CAPTIVATING EXPERIENCE AT JCI. IT WAS A ROLLERCOASTER OF EMOTIONS, BUT DEFINITELY A MEMORABLE YEAR. I KNEW GOING INTO THE PROGRAM IT WOULD BE VERY TOUGH AS I HAD MANY COMMITMENTS BEFORE AND DURING THE DURATION OF THE PROGRAM, BUT I WAS CERTAIN THE TIMING WAS RIGHT.”

While Jason was studying Fashion at JCI, he was also working two part-time jobs, managing a dance group, building a career and maintaining a social life. During the program, he also completed a twelve-week internship.

“I HAD A GREAT TIME WITH ALL MY COURSES IN THE PROGRAM AT JCI. MY CLASSMATES TURNED INTO A FAMILY AND ALL THE TEACHERS BECAME PERSONAL MENTORS. THE GREAT THING ABOUT THE PROGRAM IS THAT IT COVERS THE DIVERSITY OF CAREERS IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY.”

After graduating in 2015, Jason continued to focus on his personal growth and gained more experience in the industry. He launched his career as a stylist and worked hard to create his own brand.

“THE HIGHLIGHT OF THAT YEAR, (2015), WAS BEING ABLE TO ATTEND NEW YORK FASHION WEEK WHERE I WAS ABLE TO SEE ALL THE MAGIC THAT GOES ON FROM BEHIND THE SCENES!”

Jason has been inspired by watching people around him grow and achieve what they want. Hearing successful fashion icons of major designer brands share their stories and journey has been inspirational to the stylist.

“MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE EVERYDAY INSPIRATIONS.”

From attending New York Fashion Week to presenting his very own show at Eco Fashion Week in both Vancouver and Seattle, Jason has had a number of prize moments throughout his career. His favorite styling project thus far has been working on an actor for the Fox series, “Empire.” Most recently, he has also been styling a high profile international celebrity client.

“THE BEST PART OF WORKING IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY INCLUDE: BEING ABLE TO EXPRESS YOURSELF, MEET PEOPLE, TRAVEL AND HAVE A VARIETY OF CAREERS OPTIONS.”

Jason acknowledges that there are a lot of different areas to work in as a stylist. The first tip he would give to students aspiring to get into this career path is to figure out your niche. Secondly, begin to network as much as you can because it is important to meet people and stay relevant.

“NOTHING COMES EASY AND YOU WILL HEAR THE WORD “NO” FROM TIME TO TIME, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOU SHOULD GIVE UP. YOU HAVE TO WORK HARD IN ORDER TO GO A LONG WAY TO YOUR CAREER.”

When Jason isn’t working on styling projects, you can find him spending time alone for self-therapy, hanging out with his friends and family, planning new projects and traveling. He recently got back from a vacation from Central America which was followed by a trip to Los Angeles.

“I HAVE PLENTY OF PROJECTS THAT WILL BE REVEALED IN THE FUTURE. I AM HOPING TO GO TO LONDON IN SEPTEMBER AND THE REST OF WHAT GOES ON IN MY LIFE CAN BE VIEWED FROM MY  SOCIAL MEDIA OUTLETS!”

KEEP UP WITH JASON ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Instagram     Website     Facebook     Twitter

Article written for John Casablancas Institute

Creative and Fashion Director, Maneli Nourbakhsh

Meet Maneli Nourbakhsh, the Creative Director of Aiki District and the Fashion Director/Career Liaison at John Casablancas Institute.

 

At age three, before even really knowing what fashion was, Maneli was already fascinated with illustrating women in different outfits. She loved creating from a young age but found herself equally drawn to the academic field of law as she continued through school.

“I was caught in-between my two passions: fashion and law. During career week in high school, I interned at a fashion house called Christine Vancouver for a week as well as a law firm.”

Maneli was torn between the legal and fashion worlds. She went on to graduate with a degree in Sociology and Political Science from the University of British Columbia and had the opportunity to work with a local Political Party. Soon after writing the LSAT, Maneli decided to hold off on law school to go traveling.

“While I was traveling throughout Europe and the Middle East, I was inspired by all the art surrounding me and I knew fashion is the path to pursue.”

This choice sparked her passion for the creative, and Maneli found herself inspired to pursue a career in fashion. A few months after her trip, she returned to Vancouver and enrolled in fashion school. After receiving a diploma in Fashion Design, Maneli once again packed her bags and moved to London where she interned at MCQ then joined the print design team at Alexander McQueen.

“Maison Margiela, Alexander McQueen and Commes des Garcons are my biggest fashion influencers.” 

Maneli co-founded Aiki District with Anahita Faghih in December 2016. As someone who enjoys traveling around the world, she often struggled to find clothes to pack in her luggage. Most of her favorite pieces did not travel well, becoming wrinkled or even damaged in a suitcase.

This sparked the idea to create a fashion label that focuses on clothing which is contemporary and ideal for packing. Aiki District has a full team of people who work together to create their versatile collections. The travel-wear line will also be launching menswear in the future.

“I always knew I wanted to start my own contemporary clothing line for women’s wear.”

“The most rewarding moments throughout my career were the launch party at Aiki District, which was really special, and earning the position of Fashion Director at JCI.”

Maneli keeps a busy schedule between running Aiki District and directing the Fashion Department at John Casablancas Institute. She enjoys working at JCI because of the positive, professional environment and good energy from the students and staff. Maneli has a lot of plans for her future at JCI and is excited to see the school grow, especially after the introduction of the Core Design Program in Fall 2016.

“I never thought I would get into the educational side of fashion but I love it. Definitely, take opportunities and put your all into it and see where you can go from there.”

Though it’s difficult to get time for yourself when you’re running your own business and working as a Fashion Director, on her days off Maneli can be seen restaurant hopping, catching the latest shows and trying to plan a weekend getaway.

Maneli has never stopped traveling and continues to use her trips for design inspiration. She has driven all around Europe and still goes back and forth between London and Vancouver. Of all the places Maneli has visited, the city Shiraz in Iran has been her favourite muse to date.

“Take any opportunity that comes your way because you never know what you will enjoy unless you give it a try.”

The word of advice Maneli would give to students striving to make it in the fashion industry is to start networking as much as possible. It is a key concept in the industry, so begin making connections while you’re a student or as soon as you graduate from your program,  Maneli encourages students to take any opportunity that comes their way.  You may not know what other jobs you enjoy unless you take the risk and give it a try!

Keep up with Maneli and her stylish adventures on her Instagram

Shop Aiki District 

Article written for John Casablancas Institute’s Blog

Treat Your Skin with IMAGE Skincare

IMAGE Skincare is a innovative skincare brand which utilizes revolutionary technology to provide the most effective products for all skin types. Founded in early 2007, IMAGE is known as a results-driven company with clinically tested products.

If don’t have time to make it to the spa as often as you’d like, you can now pick up your favourite IMAGE products and take the spa home with you. Stock up on these essentials at the John Casablancas Institute Body Spa for amazing at-home skin treatment! All lines of IMAGE skincare are paraben free and if you’re a JCI student you will receive 30% off these products.

“I was first introduced to Image Skin care products in August 2012. What I like about this skin care line is that there are different product lines for each skin type. I have used the product and love it.” – Dr. Cynthia Pridgen  Sophistication ME Medical Gynecology

The Clear Cell line provides highly effective skincare products to help get rid of acne. This line reduces inflammation, eliminates excess oil and purifies skin. It utilizes the most effective acne fighting ingredients and potent anti-inflammatory botanicals to clear up skin problems.

IMAGE Skincare Clear Cell Products:

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Salicylic Gel Cleanser: This foaming, salicylic-based gel cleanser gently removes makeup and eliminates excess oil while lightly exfoliating dead skin cells and keeping skin smooth, soft and shine free. This is the ideal cleanser for oily/acne prone skin and teenagers!

Restoring Serum: An oil-free and lightweight moisturizing serum that soothes and absorbs surface oils for a mattifying effect.

Salicylic Clarifying Tonic: A salicylic/glycolic acid skin clarifier that removes excess surface oil. A blend of antioxidants leaves skin fresh and shine-free.

Mattifying Moisturizer: A hydrating moisturizer that absorbs surface oils for a refreshed, mattifying effect.

“The mattifying moisturizer clears oily skin and is one of the best products to purchase. You’re not going to have a shiny face and your makeup will stay on because it has a matte finish. This product also helps with balancing out the oil production of your skin.” – Heather Haslam, JCI Body Spa Instructor

Medicated Acne Lotion: A daily, oil-free lotion to control over-production of oil and bacteria. An antioxidant blend improves hydration and health of acne skin. Natural skin lighteners diminish redness of acne lesions.

“If you have any issues with acne the medicated acne lotion is really good to use. You can spot treatment it, go to sleep and by the next morning it is usually gone and dried up. Sometimes it can take a day or two.” – Heather Haslam, JCI Body Spa Instructor 

Salicylic Clarifying Pads: A salicylic/glycolic acid skin pad to effectively remove impurities and excess oil. Deeply clears clogged pores and follicles to leave skin fresh and clean. A blend of antioxidants and calming ingredients reduce acneic inflammation. Excellent for on the road cleansing and after physical activities. Effective home care exfoliation.

Medicated Acne Mask: An AHA/BHA blended acne masque designed to immediately draw out impurities and excess oil. Anti-oxidant blends of nutrients soothe irritated and red acne lesions. This masque leaves skin fresh and oil-free.

Medicated Acne Facial Scrub: A micro-exfoliating cleanser with benzoyl peroxide to treat active acne. A blend of antioxidants soothes irritated and red, inflamed lesions leaving skin healthy and blemish free.

“This Clear Cell IMAGE line will treat all the way up to grade four acne. Most times regular lines only treat basic acne and not the grades of acne, however, these products treat up to the highest grade of acne and people struggling with grades of acne will notice a difference.” – Heather Haslam, JCI Body Spa Instructor 

– See more at: www.jcinstitute.com/treat-your-skin-with-image-skincare

[Article written for John Casablancas Institute’s Blog]

TNA Ravine Hoodie X Red

TNA recently released an exclusive street wear collection which includes tons of comfortable and oversized hoodies and I am obsessed with my TNA Ravine Hoodie in red.

I absolutely love art and on the back of this hoodie there is custom designed ’90s-era artwork done by TNA’s very own artist. This soft hoodie can be dressed up or worn casual.

“This laid-back hoodie is made with a cotton blend that’s soft and comfortable. The throwback graphics — an homage to iconic ‘90s-era streetwear — are custom designed by Tna’s own artist.”
 – Designers Notes 

I kept my look relaxed and wore it with my Aritzia leggings and white Air Force 1 Nikes. Because the length of the hoodie is long, it can be dressed up and worn with knee-high lace up boots to get that concert look. Other ways you can dress it up is wearing this hoodie with dress pants and styling it with a pair of booties or heels.

Pair the Babaton Cohen Pant in the “denude” colour with the TNA Ravine Hoodie and style this look with a pair of black or nude heels and you not only have a comfortable look to rock, it’s also fashionable to wear hoodies and heels as it is to wear joggers with heels.

SHOP ARITZIA NOW FOR MORE STREET WEAR LOOKS