Shopping with a Twist

Some time in December my friend invited me to a party/shopping event that was held at her friend’s studio, a fashion designer Zanesha Gowrali or Zan, as everybody calls her.

I’ve never been to an event like that, so I was intrigued. Party and shopping combined in one seemed like a perfect combination.

The place wasn’t far from me, near King and Bathurst in the old brick building. Zan and her artist husband Kirby Ian Andersen turned their loft into cool studio, with Kirby’s artwork and his art structures or sculptures (not really sure what to call them) all over the place.

When I arrived, there were quite a few ladies already trying on new clothes, sipping wine and chatting away.

Zan was there offering her professional advice on which pieces go together, or if something could be altered to fit you better. Everybody was commenting on things, as soon as you walked out wearing a new piece. It was great to get so much attention and feedback.




However, this is definitely not a dress-for-less boutique, even though you are buying from the designer directly. Most items were over hundred dollars and some were quite expensive. I bought a skirt for $95.00, though initial price was about $120. My skirt needs alterations, which Zan offers for free. She really cares about her creations and wants them to look great on you.



I am not sure I would be shopping there often, though my girlfriend seems to be buying from Zanesha all the time now, but I’ll definitely go there whenever I am in need of something unique, that I wouldn’t normally find at the stores. Overall, it was an interesting experience and a lot of fun. I wish I could do all my shopping that way. :)