Polysh Magazine Fall 2010

ysh

don’t love it, sell it hot trend: consignment!

Polysh

f a s h i o n , c u lt u r e a n d l i f e s t y l e i n o n e p l a c e

Noah Reid:Canada’s all star in sCore!

bilal: soul’s

badboy is back!

BeAUtY: the retUrn

of red

fall trends you can’t live without

Vol. 2 issue no. 4

M a g a z i n ePo ysh

editor-in-ChiefCourtney roberts

[email protected]

Business direCtor hailey King

[email protected]

Creative direCtornathan G

[email protected]

art direCtorsonia Birk

[email protected]

fashion direCtorYoulanda Jackson

[email protected]

Market editor stephanie schmidt

[email protected]

Beauty editorAnna Carina

[email protected]

Krystle Chari [email protected]

fashion assistantChanel Anderson

MusiC and entertainMent editor

Kirsten Bramble [email protected]

Copy editorKirthiga rajanayagam [email protected]

ContriButors dag larsen nekita King

renata Kavehrobin Gartner

sharon Cromwell steven Carvalho

Polysh Magazine f a s h i o n , c u lt u r e a n d

l i f e s t y l e i n o n e p l a c e

UsUally when Fall hits, we immediately think FASHION! Fashion week, fashion parties and fashion wardrobes. I don’t think we’d be a contemporary, unisex fashion magazine if we didn’t talk about it. We talk trends and how to incorporate them into your daily wardrobe while giving you statement jewelry to glam up any outfit on any budget. For men, accessible and easy trends and winter accessories that will keep you downtown cool.

Apart from Jewelry and Fashion, Fall brings colour, particularly fleshtones. Coming from a multi-cultural capital, yet still dealing with race and culture issues, it’s only fitting to talk about interracial dating. We live in what’s considered a melting pot—a myriad of culture —yet we still do a double take when that hot man or woman walks by hand in hand with someone who “doesn’t look like their type.” Read Sharon Cromwell’s adventures in interracial dating on pg. 42.

whether yoU’re in to Fashion, cUltUre or mUsic we’ve got something For everyone.

Yours truly

Courtney Roberts Editor-in-Chief I want to hear your interesting stories! Email me at [email protected]

letter fromthe editor

PolysH | leTTeR FRoM The eDiToR

6 | PolysH | Fall 2010

16

60

9 albuM Reviews 39 consignMenT bouTiques 56 FeaTuRe: noah ReiD 70 Men’s Fall MusT haves

Polysh

in eVery issue

18 in My MaKeuP bag 42 a looK aT inTeR-Racial DaTing 45 woMen’s Fashion: RENCONTRER 48 bilal: soul’s baDboy is bacK

in tHis issue

contents

24

PolyshMag.coM | 7

PM

ALBUM REVIEWS

From Left to Right:Jimmy eat world Invented out September 28thciara Basic Instinct out October 29thKings oF leon: October 19thJazmine sUllivan Love me Back out November 2ndmaroon 5 Hands all over out September 21st rihanna Loud out November 16th

NiNa Sky The OTher Side AFtER A LONg HIAtuS and a series of label disputes, Nina Sky is back with a new attitude, sound and look. the duo, Natalie and Nicole are bringing their fans to The Other Side. The Other Side is Nina Sky’s attempt to show us exactly who they are as artists. the sounds of this album are heavily influenced by house, dance and funk music, shying away from the reggae sounds we’re used to. With help from the likes of Melo-X and Kidz in the Hall, Nina Sky proves to us that they’ll continue to make great music. Album Favourites: “the Other Side”, “Beautiful People” and “Only You (take Me Away)”.3.5 stars

M.i.a /\/\ /\ y /\ M.I.A IS BACK WItH HER NEW ALBuM, /\/\ /\ Y /\ (MAYA). Maya is a melodic mash-up of electro pop sounds and M.I.A’s perpetually unique style. It is expected to do tremendously better than the previous, Kala, as she takes more control of this project artistically. M.I.A has never been one to hold back, and it works in her favour for this album. Heavily influenced by her English-Sri Lankan background, she perfectly blends these two very different sounds. Album favourites: “teqkilla”, “Lovalot”, “Internet Connection” and “It takes A Muscle.” 4 stars

UpcoMIng ALBUMS

By: Kirsten Bramble

PolyshMag.coM | 9

By: Nekita King

the health benefits of being intimate

Sex throughout the seasons:

PolysH | healTh & beauTy


For some, sex is simply an enjoyable experience. For others, the very utterance of the word sex results in embarrassment or even disgust. the fact that sex

permeates all aspects of society through the media and other daily interactions, often leads to questions and debates about the appropriateness of sex and sexual images outside of the bedroom. Many argue that the bombardment of sex in the media and other areas of society, promotes promiscuity among young people, which leads to the increase in sexually transmitted diseases and other horrors, if not practised safely.

Before you turn the page or look the other way when your partner tries to be intimate, here are some of the health benefits, both physical and psychological, of sex to our overall health. the saying, “sex does the body good” has been lauded by many, including medical professionals however, this notion

has most recently been substantiated by medical evidence.

One of the main benefits of sex is that it helps to relieve stress. According to a study published in Biological Psychology, those who frequently engage in sexual intercourse respond better to stress than those who abstain. Other medical evidence suggests that frequent intercourse results in lower diastolic blood pressure, which is an indicator of lower stress levels.

If you were thinking of using a headache as an excuse to avoid intercourse with your partner, then forget it! Having sex might be the exact remedy for your headache or any other form of pain you may be experiencing. this is because having sex can result in an orgasm, which increases levels of the hormone oxytocin. Dubbed the “love hormone” because it helps partners bond and build trust, oxytocin increases the release of endorphins, which has a similar effect to morphine in reducing pain. ▶▷

PolyshMag.coM | 11

Many of us enjoy the taste of the morning latte, but dread the thought of going to the gym to burn the calories that come with it. Sex not only provides an enjoyable way to pass time, but it promotes weight loss as it helps to burn calories. It’s a great form of physical exercise, in that 30 minutes of sex can burn up to 150 calories! thus, if you engage in sexual intercourse for 30 minutes, three times per week, you will burn over 450 calories, thereby lowering your sense of guilt about your daily latte consumption. It also helps to improve flexibility, strength and muscle tone.

In addition to helping you lose weight, sex helps to improve cardiovascular health. A study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health maintains that having sex twice or more per week reduces the risk of fatal heart attacks among men by half, when compared to those who had sex less

than once a month. If you want to be forever young,

then having sex can help you attain your goal. Having orgasms through sex releases the hormone known as DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), which facilitates longevity by acting as an anti-depressant. DHEA is also credited with increases in body immunity, repair of body tissue and overall healthy looking skin.

Sex is credited with boosting self-esteem and the promotion of intimacy and healthy relationships. In a survey in Archives of Sexual Behaviour, boosting self-esteem was

among one of the 237 reasons people noted for having sex. the increase of oxytocin levels

in men often matches that of women after sex. People are more inclined to cuddle leaving both parties feeling more loved and wanted, which boosts confidence.

the argument that sex is necessary to human survival has now been given more credence with medically proven

health benefits. When conducted in a safe and healthy manner, sex is no longer just a pleasurable past time. While many objections against the projection of sex and sexual images in the media have strong merit, hopefully, the above noted health benefits of sex will lead to a re-conceptualization of the way we display and think about sex. Instead of feeling embarrassed or disgusted, we can learn to appreciate sex as a natural and healthy part of life we should embrace and enjoy. PM

“30 minutes of sex can burn up to 150 calories! Thus, if you engage in sexual intercourse for 30 minutes, three times per week, you will burn over 450 calories, thereby lowering your sense of guilt about your daily latte consumption.”



www.bourjois.ca

*Scientifically tested on 20 women

Exclusive ToShoppers Drug Mart

in Canada

town red!Painting the

What better way to fall into the season, than with deep, sexy red lips! here are our picks for your pout. Wear the shades on

their own or pair with subtle eye make-up for flair.

Kat Von D hell Bent. Available at

Sephora, $18.

naRS red lizard. Available at

Sephora, $24.

MaC rUBy woo. Available at MAC locations, $17.50.

DolCe & Gabbana iconic. Available at

Holt Renfrew, $30.



ReVlon rUBy. Available at any

Drug Stores, $8.95.

CoVeRGIRl really red. Available at any

DrugStores, $6.99.

MaC rUssian red. Available at MAC locations, $17.50.

GueRlaIn RouGe G geisha. Available at

Sephora, $46.

YSl red mUse. Available at Holt Renfrew, $34.

PolyshMag.coM | 15

Ladies in RedRed lips are a statement on their own! Check out the way our favourite celebrities wear red. No matter what your complexion, there’s a red that will bring you from 0-60 in no time!

By: Anna Carina

CAmeron diAz

dreW BArrYmore

ditA von teese

rosArio dAWson

rihAnnA

leiGhton meester

lUCY liU



hAYden pAnettiere AmeriCA ferrerA

JessiCA AlBA

BeYonCe

liv tYler

KellY roWlAnd

PolyshMag.coM | 17

in my makeup bag

5

4

3

2

1

5

4

3

2

1 OLe HenrIckSen trUth revealed™ sUPer crème sPF 15. Available at Sephora. A luxurious day crème with anti-aging benefits. This rich anti-aging crème—leaves the skin with a light sheen and luminous glow. It hydrates and soothes skin while fighting the signs of aging as it firms, boosts cell proliferation, and scavenges free radicals. Truth crème is ideal for all skin types, with SPF 15 protection. $69.

FreSH rOSe marigold tonic water. Available at Sephora. An alcohol-free blend of hydrating and toning floral waters, this gentle floral water hydrates the skin for a plump and toned complexion. Use it to revitalize the skin throughout the day, set makeup, and soothe irritations. $39.

VIcHy aqUlia antiox serUm. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart. A concentration of skin brightening and lightening vitamin c in serum format. needs to be refrigerated in order to stay fresh. Great to minimize sunspots, and minor discolourations. This serum improves what dermatologists call the three markers of youthful skin: rosy complexion, radiant skin tone and smooth texture. $42.

DIOr hydra liFe Pro-yoUth sorBet eye crème. Available at Sephora. A light formula designed to reduce puffiness and lighten dark circles for a rested and radiant look. This fast-absorbing essential produces the freshness of a gel and the softness of a cream. $50.

J.r. WATkInS hand cUticle salve (99.0% natUral). Available at Walmart. Formulated with a premium beeswax base, these salves incorporate natural oils that moisturize, nourish and revitalize hardworking hands and cuticles. can be used for any dry skin (ie. elbows, heels, etc) Great for when that winter wind comes in, and moisture leaves us high and dry. It also comes in Aloe & Green Tea, Mango, lavender and lemon. $8.



fall 2010 overview: revisit ClAssiCs liKe lAvish fUrs, ChUnKY Knits, And riCh oUterWeAr in CAmel And GrAY. top off the looK With A frinGed BAG, or A lACe-Up Bootie.2

trendsw o M e n ' sF a l l 2 0 1 0

hermes JeAn pAUl GAUltier

fendi

fendi

osCAr de lA rentA

dsqUAred2

dsqUAred2ChAnel

fur: fUr shoWs Up on the rUnWAY this seAson in footWeAr, hAnd BAGs And of CoUrse CoAts! Whether it Be reAl or fAUx it’s GUArAnteed to Be A fUr-oCioUs Winter!

PolysH | woMen’s Fashion


etro

osCAr de lA rentAroBerto CAvAlli

miChAel Kors

pUCCidsqUAred2

PolyshMag.coM | 21

Cozy knits: CozY Knits Are AlWAYs mUst-hAve pieCes for fAll. ChUnKY CABles And trAditionAl fAir isles Are sUre to Keep Us WArm dUrinG the Cold Winter months.

miChAel Kors

miChAel Kors

rAG And Bone

loUis vUitton

loUis vUitton

Jill stUArt

missoni

diAne von fUrstenBerGmAx mArA hermes

JeremY lAinG



CaMel: there’s no other Color As effortlesslY ChiC And lUxUrioUs As CAmel. CAmel Goes With everYthinG And is perfeCtlY sUited to the neW minimAlism. invest in A CAmel CoAt And We GUArAntee YoU’ll WeAr it forever.

STyle Tip: The SharpeST way TO wear iT NOw? STarT by SiMply acceSSOriziNg yOur favOriTe OuTfiTS wiTh a haNdbag

Chloe

fendi

etro

CostUme nAtionAl

GiAmBAttistA vAllidries vAn noten

miChAel Kors prAdA GUCCi

PolyshMag.coM | 23

Statement Jewellery

YSl

YSl

YSl

PHIlIPPe auDIbeRt

PHIlIPPe auDIbeRt



RobeRto CaVallI

MaRnI

MaRnI

MaRnI

PolyshMag.coM | 25

oSCaR De la Renta

oSCaR De la Renta



KennetH jaY lane

lanVIn

PolyshMag.coM | 27

11.

get the look for lessOn a budget? Here are some affordable accessories that will help you make that statement without breaking the bank.

1. ariel Braid & chains necKlace BAnAnA rePUBLIc, $69.502. large emBellished necKlace FOreVer21, $15.803. ForBes ALDO AcceSSOrIeS, $25.004. nine layer necKlace FOreVer21, $17.805. caBernet chandelier earrings BAnAnA rePUBLIc, $45.006. rUsted metal elastic Bracelet FOreVer21, $12.807. hardgrave ALDO AcceSSOrIeS, $18.008. shiny linK ring BAnAnA rePUBLIc, $49.509. large twist ring FOreVer21, $4.80 10. romania Beaded Bracelet FOreVer21, $10.80 11. Faceted Jewel necKlace FOreVer21, $6.80

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

*Tip: Go big or go home!

sTeal!

PolysH | FeaTuRe


creative direction / Photography: Renata Kaveh | styling: nicholas chicanot & Maxime ninot | Hair: aniya nandy (Plutino group) | makeup: Diana Dagher (Plutino group) | model: emma Tsirk (Mademoiselle agency, Paris)

RencontReR



JACKEt: ALICE BY tEMPERLEYDRESS: gIANFRANCO FERRE

tIgHtS: FALKESHOES: gIANvItO ROSSI

PolyshMag.coM | 31

FuR COAt: SHARON WAuCHOBgLOvES: ICEBERgtIgHtS: FALKESHOES: gIANvItO ROSSI



COAt: gIANFRANCO FERREDRESS: ALICE BY tEMPERLEY

PolyshMag.coM | 33

DRESS: gILESgLOvES: ICEBERgtIgHtS: FALKESHOES: gIANvItO ROSSI



JACKEt: JASMINE DI MILODRESS: MARIA LuISA

uNDERSKIRt: tALBOt RuNHOFF

PolyshMag.coM | 35



CAPE: gILESDRESS: gILES

gLOvES: AgNELLEtIgHtS: FALKE

SHOES: gIANvItO ROSSI

PolyshMag.coM | 37

don’t love it? sell it!

consignment in 2010

By dag larsen

▶▷

PolyshMag.coM | 39

trends come and go and as new styles flood malls and boutiques, we seem to

forget about our current season’s go-to pieces. We buy all these new things, for fall, which would mean the typical sweaters, outerwear, boots, hats etc, yet what about our already overcrowded closet? they become cluttered, messy and basically black holes of clothing we no longer use, or even acknowledge owning. Now we can continue hoarding and amassing, or we can turn to consignment.Consignment is a concept where people exchange clothing they no longer wear—or have a need for—for a fraction of the original cost, to buy new things, or to pay off old “fashion debt.” Consignment in 2010, is not just dumping off your grandma’s clothes. Balenciaga, Prada, Herve Leger—these are the labels you can hope to find at most consignment stores now, and as much as the prices are marginally less than high end department store price tags, this is no bargain basement matter. Whether you are looking to buy some great classic pieces from a Chanel bag, to a pair of shoes, or are looking to sell your goodies and clear some room in your closet, consignment stores are made for everyone. We took to the streets and visited a few consignment boutiques. Check out Haute Classics, Extoggery and Second time Around.

haUte classicsHaute Classics located at 946 Yonge St. (between Rosedale and

Bloor) is a haven for those with a love of great bags, shoes and vintage. With a wall and countless shelves dedicated to names like Fendi, Mulberry, Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, we found them to be supreme in the accessories department. Even better, all merchandise goes through a strict authentication process to ensure that every item bought from HC is 100% authentic. Attention out-of-towners, you can visit their E-store at www.hauteclassics.com, where everything from men’s, women’s, bags, shoes, and even sale merchandise is just a click away and shipping is free on orders over $250. Call today to find your dream bag, or set up an appointment to consign your pre-loved high end merchandise at 416 922 7900. Split 60% to client 40% to store, with payouts once monthly.

extoggeryExtoggery is a consignment chain with quite some history, 80 years to be exact, with its roots dating back to a small spot for people to sell their Sunday best church clothes. the stores at both 1640 Avenue Rd, and 10 Brentcliffe Rd have changed and now are a one stop shop for everything from jeans and tees, to dresses and blazers, and perfect for working women, and men. With a focus on high end merchandise and priced at 25-30% of retail cost, Extoggery offers countless racks of everything from theory, to Prada, and both locations boast the largest selection of designer duds for a consignment store

throughout toronto. Looking to consign, Extoggery is all about convenience so everyday excluding Wednesday and Sunday you can pop in between 10am-5:30pm where a consignor will go through your pieces with you, and set you up with an account. Split 45% to client, 55% to store, with money paid out immediately after sale. For more info visit www.extoggery.com.

second time aroUndWhenever you’re in Yorkville be sure to stop by Second Time Around, located at 99 Yorkville Ave where you can find, designer goods from chanel, Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood, DVF, Louboutins and more. Price points range from as low as $60 for a Jean Paul gautier dress to $1000 for a gently used Louis vuitton for a Handbag. Store hours are Mon-Fri From 11am-6pm. Owner Karen Wong is Proud to say that her store is most sought after their quilted Chanel classic flap handbags, for a fraction of the cost. Just imagine finding that Marc Jacobs bag you’ve always wanted yet could not afford, at a 1⁄4 of the price and seriously, what could be more fun then getting paid for things that you don’t wear anymore. Fashion is an investment, however when that investment isn’t thrilling you, it may be time to cash in. Consignment is how to beat the recession, and how to look like a million dollars on any budget. Happy Shopping! PM



Fashion is an investment, however when that investment isn’t

thrilling yoU, it may Be time to cash in. consignment is how to Beat the recession, and how to looK liKe a

million dollars on any BUdget.

PolyshMag.coM | 41

a look at inter-racial

datingBy: Sharon Cromwell

PolysH | FeaTuRe


tall, dark and handsome: the three characteristics every girl is told define the “Perfect Man.” Essentially we are taught to judge a book by its cover. things, unfortunately, get a little more complicated as we get older. Often, that seemingly perfect, tall, dark and handsome guy turns out to be not so perfect, but rather a jerk lacking a certain charm and chivalry that we demand, and we suddenly realize that looks aren’t everything.

things become more complex when you start looking for your future spouse, the man (or woman) who you will not only spend the rest of your life with, but will determine what your children will act and eventually look like. And things only worsen as time goes on new traits are added as old traits fade into the shadows. As you discover more about yourself, you begin to demand more and more from your future partner: spirituality, wealth, a sense of humour, intelligence, and the list goes on.

Amidst the confusion, however, there still lurks that little girl inside of you who dreams of being swept

off her feet by the Perfect Man. Maybe you still want your man to be tall— who doesn’t want a guy who’s at least their height in heels? And of course he must be handsome— physical attraction is, to some extent, mandatory for a healthy relationship. But what about the dark criterion? How important is skin colour?

In a place like toronto, where multiculturalism defines the aesthetic of the city, where “eclectic” is the only consistent characteristic, I can’t help but wonder how strictly are torontonians staying within their racial confines when it comes to dating? How prominent is race and ethnicity in limiting or extending our social relations, including our intimate relationships?

Coming from the perspective of a woman who has dated nearly every race— from white to black, Indian to Arab, and at least one guy from each of the three monotheistic religions— I ask myself: Am I the quintessential toronto “dater” or am I an anomaly? Personally, I find the racial variety in toronto’s dating scene liberating, but

do others feel the same?

I looked close to home and too quickly found out that not everyone is ready to cross the racial barrier. “If I were white, he’d be the kind of guy I would go for,” a friend once said to me as we passed, a cute guy on St. Catherines Street. “What do you mean?” I asked, “Why would you not go for him now?” “I don’t know actually,” she responded, “I think he wouldn’t go for me.” What she meant to say is, I think he wouldn’t go for me because I’m not white.

We have all done it –flirting in line at a café, dancing at the club, catching eyes in the mall –but never take it past these meaningless and isolated encounters. It seems that people may not be ready to face the idea that that perfect someone could be of another race. Others may be open to the idea of dating outside of their race, but would prefer not to go that route. Whatever the issue may be, and despite the increasing prevalence of interracial couples, I believe that this phenomenon is oddly still a novelty for many, leaving them asking the

f or some, the driving force is the search for the “exotic quotient ” intentionally seeking a partner

with a different ethnic background, while others are simply colour blind. Irrespective of the reason, it is undeniable that interracial dating is a rising phenomenon in Toronto. The question is, is it just a fad or has the city’s multiculturalism assumed a new dynamic?

▶▷

PolyshMag.coM | 43

question: what is it that drives people towards another race or away from their own?

In an attempt to answer this question, I’ve explored the reasons why some of my friends have chosen to date outside of their race. transCending raCeCase: Afro-caribbean female engaged to a Bengali man.In the city, regardless of one’s race and nationality, you have the ability to subscribe to nearly any culture or subculture you desire. You find Italian girls at the city’s most notorious reggae parties, Indians playing the African drums at Afrofest, Africans at Pacific Mall for Bubble tea. As we move further away from our native cultural identities, we enter a new circle, which begins to define and influence our interests, including our romantic interests. the result? As skin colour no longer denotes one’s tastes and interests, it loses its meaning as an indicator of compatibility besides skin colour, we may have nothing in common with a person whom society would assume is our typical match, and we may form the strongest bonds with the seemingly most unlikely partner.

the eCleCtiCCase: Algerian female who has dated men of white, black and Indian decent.It seems that everybody these days strives to be “cultured,” trying different foods, attending a spectrum of events and listening to a variety of musical genres. the next course in the cultural buffet is obvious— engaging in a romantic relationship with the “ethnic other.” Why be the typical boring couple, when you can go out to eat exotic foods with your exotic girlfriend, discussing issues of politics and race on pedestrian Sunday at Kensington Market? this is for the culturally adventurous, and although this explanation appears both crude and shallow,

it does not discount the substance of these relationships. Oftentimes it is the sincere appreciation one has for their partner’s culture and cultural differences that fortifies their feelings, thereby strengthening the relationship.

stereotypesCase: Black, white, Indian, Arab, Asian and Jewish men who would date everything but their own race. Although some may be drawn to other cultures, many

PolysH | FeaTuRe


interracial daters cite being turned off from men/women of their own race. “I can’t date Black women, they’re too boisterous,” I was once told by a Black male. Another male of Indian decent stated that he prefers not to date Indian girls because “they’re too promiscuous.” “Maybe if I could find a Jewish girl that wasn’t so...Jewish, I would date them.” Arab girls want to be pampered, Asian girls are too timid, and Caucasian girls are too wild, are amongst some of the many stereotypes I’ve heard. I have no idea where these stereotypes came from, but, believe it or not, they came from real men as reasons why they have chosen to date outside of their race.

politiCs yet againcase: Undisclosed.unfortunately, the politics of race relations also influences our dating choices. For example, it is widely argued that black men and women tend to “upgrade” their partners when they become more educated or obtain higher paying jobs as if being considered upper-class means shedding your intimate racial ties. this idea, I believe, spawns from a “racial inferiority-complex”—a byproduct of our multicultural society’s implicit racial hierarchy. these politics don’t only affect the black community. While researching the “Asian Fetish” for example, a friend once pointed out to me the weird “colonial” dynamic he often observes between white men and their Asian female counterpart,

who plays the role of her partner’s submissive muse. Finally, there is the reverse colonial dynamic, where individuals who are disgusted by racist and colonial practices begin to identify with those victimized by such practices and, as a result, form an intimate union in a show of solidarity. In a world so divided and confused over the issue of race, it would be naive to assume that

our social relations are void of such political interference.

- - -

Regardless of the reasons someone chooses to enter an interracial relationship, the answer is simple: when it comes down to the relationship between two people, it is not about the race nor is it about the politics. It’s just two people who have conversations, who laugh together, who care about each other, and who support one another. the real secret behind interracial relations, that onlookers cannot see, is that beyond the surface, beyond the colours and beyond the appearances, there is a deeper bond holding the couple together. Interracial couples do not think of themselves as an “interracial couple.” the fact that they are of different races is often a mere accident. the preoccupation is not with the race politics, the cultural expression nor the stereotypes, but rather the attraction, compatibility and fulfillment. In short, interracial relationships are simply like any other relationship.

So what does this mean for dating in a metropolitan city? Everything! Options are endless! If you choose to include yourself in the pool of potential interracial daters, almost anyone is fair game. Of course everyone has their preferences, but when you’re open to looking beyond the surface, you never know what you can find. PM

“Besides skin colour, we may have nothing in common

with a person whom society would assume is our typical match and

we may form the strongest bonds with

the seemingly most unlikely

partner.”

PolyshMag.coM | 45

PolysH | FeaTuRe

BILAL10 yeaRs ago, bilal was one oF The biggesT naMes in soul Music. ToDay, aFTeR a lengThy hiaTus, he ReTuRns To The gaMe anD wiTh Much suPPoRT FRoM longsTanDing Fans, anD bloggeRs, he is PRoving ThaT his TalenT suRPasses all. we FiRsT MeT DuRing bilal’s aPPeaRance in ToRonTo, wheRe The singeR PeRFoRMeD olD anD new MaTeRial FoR ThousanDs oF Fans aT The soulsTaR conceRT. i Then caughT uP wiTh hiM beFoRe his euRoPean TouR. ▶▷

By: Courtney Roberts

PolyshMag.coM | 49

PolysH | FeaTuRe


▶▷

Since taking his music and career in a new direction, Bilal has released his third studio album “Airtights Revenge” which is being released under his new label, Plug Research.

you TooK quiTe a long bReaK FRoM TheinDusTRy anD DiDn’T geT To Release “love FoR sale.” is any oF The MaTeRial

FRoM ThaT albuM on AiRTighT’s REvENgE?

No, that material was bootlegged, so I’ve abandoned it. this is all new material. I had to step away from that and introduce a new sound.

whaT aRTisTs/PRoDuceRs DiD you woRK wiTh This TiMe aRounD?

Well on this record, I played the singer/songwriter role. A lot of the material I did on my own but I worked with 88 keys, Shafiq Hussain, Knots and my band. It was really about the sound and the concept that we were going for.

The albuM is going To be ReleaseD unDeR youR new label Plug ReseaRch. Tell Me abouT youR new Deal wiTh TheM. Do you have Full cReaTive conTRol?

Yes. Definitely. they let me do whatever I want to do. that’s one of the reasons I went independent. I wanted to be more involved in being me and they allowed me to grow.

“These lasT Few yeaRs, i’ve collaboRaTeD wiTh Jay-z, scaRFace anD The gaMe To naMe a Few. i Don’T even Know why They call Me uP buT iT’s inTeResTing anD inTRiguing because i’ve Really been Doing Me The lasT Few yeaRs.”

PolyshMag.coM | 51

who aRe soMe oF The aRTisTs ThaT you’ve eveR wRiTTen FoR/collaboRaTeD wiTh?

I’ve been blessed to still be able to do shows even though I haven’t had an album out for nine years. the people that are into me have been supporting me for years and it’s great. these last few years, I’ve collaborated with Jay-Z, Scarface and the game to name a few. I don’t even know why they call me up but it’s interesting and intriguing because I’ve really been doing me the last few years.

whaT was The FiRsT song ThaT you wRoTe?

the earliest song I can remember writing, I wrote in high school and that’s when I was like, “I’m a musician now.”

you have such a unique sTyle anD sounD. weRe you eveR consiDeReD weiRD gRowing uP?

When I was coming up as a young kid, I didn’t sing in a lot of places except for church. In church I would do a lot of wild things, you know, that people thought were weird. I kind of always wanted to do some type of jazz when I was a young kid and I would take that swagger into

church and it would always get me into trouble.

This yeaR aT The beT awaRDs, DiDDy announceD ThaT you woulD be one oF The Many aRTisTs To aPPeaR on The DiRTy Money albuM. whaT was iT liKe woRKing wiTh The new, eclecTic gRouP?

It was cool, it was a situation where he just hit me up. they already had the song mapped out so I went in and did some ad libs and background vocals. It was very smooth, I wasn’t in there that long but it was cool and laid back.

how has The inDusTRy changeD oveR The DecaDe?

there are a lot more opportunities now. We don’t have to follow the same formulas there were before because of the introduction of the internet.

Do you PaRTiciPaTe in all The asPecTs oF social MeDia?

I need to [laughs]. I’m working on it!

whaT’s nexT FoR you?

Next week I’ll be leaving for Europe, and then we come back over here in August to start touring in America.

“i KinD oF always wanTeD To Do soMe TyPe oF Jazz when i was a young KiD anD i woulD TaKe ThaT swaggeR inTo chuRch anD iT woulD always geT Me inTo TRouble.” PM

PolysH | FeaTuRe


PolyshMag.coM | 53

aRTisT PRoFile:

RISE tO SuCCESS:Pat, Rob, Aaron, Miles and Dan

make up one of the hottest Canadian bands, to grace the airwaves, Stereos. But what makes this band so unique is their ability to engage their audience while combining genres of Hip Hop, Pop and alternative music and remain true to themselves no

matter what. “When we first started writing for this band, we started as a 50s and 40s, rock and punk band, but we always really liked Hip Hop and R&B. But, we were really worried if people would let us pull it off,” says front man, Pat. Constantly met by screaming fans and releasing singles that continue to make the

charts proves that they are pulling it off quite well.

growing up in Western Canada, many of the band members met while playing in Edmonton, Alberta. Finding common interests and a common goal, Stereos was formed in 2008. Media network, MuchMusic recognized the potential of the band, as they were one of the first to be featured on their original series, DisBAnD. DisBAnD gave Canadian artists the platform to showcase their

Band memBers: PAt KORDYBACK (LEAD vOCALS), MILES HOLMWOOD (LEAD guItARISt), DANIEL JOHNSON (BASS guItARISt), ROB CHALIFOuX (RHYtHM guItARISt) & AARON vERDONK (DRuMMER)

STEREOSstereosBy Kirsten Bramble

PolysH | FeaTuRe


personalities and music on national tv and for Stereos, this was the moment they had been waiting for.

On October 20th, 2009, Stereos released their self-titled debut album Stereos, which has since gone gold, under the universal Music Canada imprint. Soon after, they released hit after hit with “Summer girl,” “turn It up” and “She Only Likes Me When I’m Drunk.” Juno nominations

were announced in March 2010 and Stereos received not one, but two nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Album.

Apart from the Junos, the band wrapped up a successful tour with music heavyweights, Hedley. “It was amazing to play NHL arenas. Like every little kid’s dream!” Says Rob. Stereos are currently in the studio working on a follow-up to their debut album. 2010 has been

a whirlwind of new experiences for this Canadian band. that is why we have made them one of the bands to look out for next year. Not only will their music continue to carry them to unprecedented levels but with determination, they will end the year with a bang.

For more info, please check out www.wearestereos.com

wHat MaKeS tHIS banD So unIque IS tHeIR abIlItY to enGaGe tHeIR auDIenCe wHIle CoMbInInG GenReS of HIP HoP, PoP & alteRnatIVe MuSIC & ReMaIn tRue to tHeMSelVeS no MatteR wHat.

“”

PM

PolyshMag.coM | 55

NoAh ReId, CANAdA’S ALL StAR

By: Courtney RobertsPictures courtesy of Mongrel Media and Star PR.

PolysH | FeaTuRe


▶▷

at 23, Noah Reid—who has been acting most of his life—has a come a long way from playing

the world’s favourite turtle, Franklin. the singer/actor has become busier since starring in Score: A Hockey Musical and up until our interview, hadn’t found time to look for a tux. the musical, which features appearances by Nelly Furtado and george Stromboulopoulos premiered opening night at the toronto International Film Festival and hits the big screen on October 22nd, 2010.

Reid got his start in daycare, where an instructor would have them put on skits from the latest Disney movies and Reid often played the biggest roles. “I started taking

acting classes at the local library at age 6 and from there, the guy who ran the acting classes suggested I get an agent,” reminisces Reid. Much to Reid and his parents’ surprise, he was right. getting an agent only secured more roles for the young actor, who has been in several children’s shows like Strange days at Blake Holsey High, Tales from the cryptkeeper, and more. Of course achieving semi-stardom at such a young age came with its perks. “It only occurred to me that I was doing something different when people made fun of me. People would be like: do the Franklin voice and where’s your shell, but I got to miss school sometimes so that was fun,” laughs Reid. In 2009, Reid landed a role on the Canadian hit

“ I’ve ALwAyS LIked to keep It BuSy But I’ve ReAChed A New

LeveL of BuSy IN the LASt moNthS.”

PolyshMag.coM | 57

series, Degrassi: The next Generation, where he played a student from a rival school, who held Spinner and Holly J up at gunpoint in the Dot. “I got to waltz

“eveRyoNe SAyS It’S A hARd BuSINeSS to get INto But If you wANNA do It, you’LL do whAt It tAkeS to mAke It hAppeN. It’S A tough LIfe fINANCIALLy & emotIoNALLy But you hAve to kNow IN youR heARt whAt you wANNA do ANd go AfteR It.”

PM

on set and play the bad guy for two days, so that was exciting,” he says.

In contrast, in his latest film, “Score: A Hockey Musical,” Reid is frequently bashed for not being the bad guy, in Canada’s favourite game. “I play gordon a 17 year old wiz kid who is really well traveled and incredibly smart. He goes out and plays hockey and gets discovered by a guy who has a junior team. He becomes an instant star and everybody loves him until he decides that he won’t fight and everybody starts to hate him.”

Not only was the role quite different than anything he’d done in the past, so was the audition: “In November 2009, my agent called me and sent me the script and I thought it was perfect because it involved two things I loved to do, acting and playing hockey. I met Mike Mcgowan and I did the audition and sang for him. then I had a separate skating audition for him. We met early in the morning, played one on one and I was totally out of breath after the 10 minutes [laughs]. It was incredible and totally different than any audition I’ve ever done.”

In the film, Reid’s mother –who is opposed to the idea of organized sports –is played by Australian actress Olivia Newton John. “Olivia is an incredibly beautiful woman and what I didn’t expect from her was this crazy sense of humour. She already had chemistry with Mark because

of their relationship in the music industry so they were cracking jokes all the time. It was so refreshing to work with somebody who has had that much success on a global level.”

Whats next for Reid? I’ve been lucky so far. I’d love to be able to do tv, film and theatre at the same time.

For young people looking to get into acting, he gives this advice, “Everyone says it’s a hard business to get into but if you wanna do it, you’ll do what it takes to make it happen. It’s a tough life financially and emotionally but you have to know in your heart what you wanna do and go after it.”

PolysH | FeaTuRe


Photography: robin Gartner | creative direction: youlanda Jackson, castor reigns | head stylist: Dag Larsen | hair and make-up: Anna carina models: colin (elmer Olsen), James (Spot 6)

This season's musT haves compeTing for The spoTlighT!

Forces collide

PolysH | Men’s Fashion


Forces collide

On JAMeS: DOuBLE BREAStED CARDIgAN esPrit SHIRt

loganloves.com (LAuNCHINg OCt 2010) JEANS hUdson

SHOES Bloch NECKLACE/LEAtHER CuFF soosrocKs

HAt danier BAg red canoe Brands

On cOLIn: gREY SuIt h&m

SWEAtER Banana rePUBlic SHIRt esPrit SHOES dolce&gaBBana

DAggER soosrocKs WAtCH android

EYEgLASSES lUnor At JosePhsons

PolyshMag.coM | 61

On cOLIn:FAuX FuR HEAD PIECE/SCARF esPrit gOOgLE red canoe Brands vESt/PANtS/SHIRt h&m WAtCH android



On JAMeS:LEAtHER JACKEt Ferre

CARDIgAN red canoe Brands SWEAtER vanishing elePhant

ROSARIES soosrocKs

PolyshMag.coM | 63

On cOLIn:SuIt/SHIRt esPrit SHOES Bloch tIE Banana rePUBlic BAg ecco JEWELERY soosrocKs



On JAMeS:JEAN JACKEt costUme national

SWEAtER/SHIRt esPrit PANtS Banana rePUBlic

BOOtS winners BAg Banana rePUBlic

WHIStLE NECKLACE soosrocKs SuNgLASSES retro sUPer FUtUre

PolyshMag.coM | 65

On cOLIn:COAt winners SHIRt/SCARF esPrit HAMMER NECKLACE soosrocKs BLACK OvERSIZED SuNgLASSES KsUBi



On JAMeS: COAt/SHIRt Banana rePUBlic

SWEAtER gaP WAtCH android

BRACELEt soosrocKs gLASSES roBert marc At JosePhsons

PolyshMag.coM | 67

On cOLIn:COAt hUgo Boss red laBel SWEAtER h&m RED CARDIgAN FiretraP SCARF esPrit NECKLACE as PrevioUs



On JAMeS:as PrevioUs

PolyshMag.coM | 69

men’s trend reporta v i a t o r / M i l i t a r y :

tAKen literAllY over At rAG&Bone, With men in CAmoUflAGe And more sUBtle With sheArlinG toppers At BUrBerrY, this AGGressive, edGY looK Will Keep YoU doWntoWn Cool. thAt stAple WAtCh, And those pristine shoes Will ensUre the GenerAl's stAmp of ApprovAl.

BUrBerrY

loUis vUitton rAG&Bone

GAp BUrBerrY

BUrBerrY



s u i t i n g :

everY mAn KnoWs the importAnCe of A GreAt sUit. Gone Are the dAYs We need An exCUse to WeAr one. dress Up for morninG Coffee, or to impress the hot ChiCK in ACCoUntinG BeCAUse the seleCtions this seAson Are intense. (seCretArY, And toWnCAr not inClUded)

BAnAnA repUBliC CAnAli dries von noten

Jil sAnder loUis vUitton neil BArrett simon spUrr

PolyshMag.coM | 71

a c c e s s o r i e s : fall Will AlWAYs BrinG Boots, toqUes, And Gloves, hoWever this seAson BroUGht men’s finishinG toUChes to Another level. everYthinG from sheArlinG trimmed BAGs, to fUr Covered Gloves it’s All ABoUt the detAils. from neW YorK to milAn We hAve roUnded oUt oUr mUst hAves thAt everY polYshed mAn needs riGht noW.

phillip lim

dUCKie BroWn BespoKen

phillip limdAnier

BUrBerrY

hats: hAts Are not here to Cover Up A BAd hAir dAY, theY Are the finishinG looK to AnY oUtfit. We sUGGest everY polYshed mAn hAs everYthinG from A toqUe to A fedorA this seAson. Be dArinG And plAY With print.

gloves: lUxe detAils, liKe BrAss zippers or lAmB’s leAther Are GreAt, BUt When YoUr BUsY sChedUle meAns YoU need to Be “text reAdY” finGerless Gloves Are Up for GrABs At roots.

qUiKsilver

men’s trend report



Boots: don’t stiCK to the BAsiCs, from sUede to BUCKles, Boots Are not JUst for shovellinG the snoW.

BAnAnA repUBliC hermes loUis vUitton

dUCKie BroWn AldodolCe And GABBAnA simon spUrr

BAGs: size doesn’t mAtter, BiG or smAll there is A BAG for YoU.

PolyshMag.coM | 73

Documents

Polysh Magazine Fall 2010