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Proud nights
Overbooked your guest bedroom this weekend? Finicky fashionista friends won’t dream of sleeping on anything less than 400 thread count Egyptian cotton? Get them set up at the newly boutique-ified Pantages Suites Hotel & Spa (210 Victoria), a block away from the Eaton Centre. Not all the services are in place yet – the grand opening is scheduled for the end of September – but since they’re one of Pride’s sponsors, there’s a reduced room rate of $199 this week, based on availability. 416-362-1777. www.pantageshotel.com
Fresh name
You know and love it as UpCountry Garden (16 Eastern) – don’t worry, it’s not moving – but start retraining your lips there’s a name change in effect for this gardening lifestyle store. Owner Duncan Fanning is phasing out the tired, old UpCountry title and bringing out a brand new name: Fresh. Start using it. 416-367-3906.
Willkommen, Karl!
It’s not often that I get a fashion boner, but news of Chanel hero Karl Lagerfeld collaborating with H&M for a one-time fall 2004 collection nearly ripped my pants. Since this is probably the closest we’ll get to his genius handiwork, I suggest you start saving those toonies – there are 30 pieces rolling out mid-November. Don’t sweat the suburban journey (Fairview Mall, 1800 Sheppard East Promenade Shopping Centre, 1 Promenade Court, Thornhill). By then the Eaton Centre store should be up and running. www.hm.com
Right-on retro
Cruise down to the intersection of Queen West and Roncesvalles Saturday (June 26) to enjoy a tidal wave of retro gear at Vintage Fest . From restored cars to antique furniture to hot vintage fashion, if you like old, you’ll love this. Noon to 7 pm. 416-536-6918.
Bag lady
Looking for a little excitement at the end of your arm – OK, of the non-human variety? Toronto designer Carol Ellen just launched her sassy new line of crafty 3-D handbags. What do I mean by 3-D? Think your grandma’s purse, a glue-gunned bouquet of faux flowers, definitely a summer must-have. Check out www. pinksaki. com or call 416-693-1434 for availability. fashion@nowtoronto.com
