During my last trip to Las Vegas I visited the new J. Crew concept store in the Fashion Show Mall. I was very surprised when I walked through the store - J.Crew took it up a notch and added some sizzle to their traditional preppy style.

For their F/W 2010 launch held at MILK Studios in NYC, they mixed it up and mashed it up, playing with textures, adding a lot of earthy tones, off-white tulle, sequins and jewels. If I had to sum it up it would be “Grey Gardens” crossed with prep.

We can’t forget about the boys! The men’s  collection is full of bespoke like suiting pieces (my favourite look on a man). They have re-worked classic items like the chino and denim jacket and paired them up by … more …

It’s time to say farewell to Jonathan+Olivia (in Vancouver only). Here is your last chance to pick up on some mega deals before they close their doors January 30, 2010.

Don’t worry, they are still running their store in Toronto and their on-line boutique will be launching soon. So Vancourites, you can still get some Jonathan+Olivia love from a far.

You’ll be missed.

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider

The role demands someone with vision, good taste, fashion knowledge, persistence and a talent for innovation.

• Plan, develop, source and select merchandise for assigned product category or brands to achieve or exceed sales and stock-turn objectives.
• Monitors business trends, evaluates competition and interacts with store personnel.
• Analyzes sales statistics, market trends, colors, styles and sizes as well as anticipates future trends to create appropriate product strategies.
• Negotiates lowest possible costs to meet quality standards, quantity and delivery according to schedules.
• Manages product replenishment and returns to vendors.
• Understands each store’s market in order to buy and allocate product to maximize profit and company image.
• Develop and manage procurement processes.
• Review product lines and source new suppliers.
• Ensure appropriate inventory lines and volume are purchased to meet demand according to different store profiles.
• Effective liaison with vendors, district supervisors and stores

… more …

I had the pleasure of meeting up with Nicole Durnin, the owner of the new clothing boutique in Gastown, LYNNsteven. Named after her mother and brother, this boutique offers fun, flirty styles with some edge. Her all white aesthetic and custom designed racking system makes for a clean and organized shopping experience.

Currently you’ll find labels like: Paige, J Brand, Lauren Moshi, Rory Beca, Daftbird and Isabel Lu and many more. You must drop in for a visit and take a look at my 2 current obsessions:

1. The amazing circular storage room that is made of stacks of old books.

2. A Isabel Lu dress for $160 CDN that is now on sale for 20% off. The zipper ruffle details are music to my ears.

Sunny Shum, Your Industry … more …

Crisp, clean and simple is how I would describe Parliament, the newest addition to Gastown’s furniture store club. Brought to you by three ex-Liberty staff members, they have done a swell job in finding modern looks at reasonable prices.

It’s one of my sweet spots, finding product that looks more expensive than it costs. They offer everything from sofas, dining sets, office chairs, wine stoppers, candlestick holders and pillows.

My favourite find, little white porcelain pear and apple decorations for only $6 CDN each!

115 Water St., Vancouver, 604-689-0800, www.parliamentinteriors.com

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider