Toronto Born Hip Hop Artist Drake About to Board Virgin's First Flight to Canada

The day began at 4AM, en route to Los Angeles International Airport with Jason Pomeranc, co-owner of Thompson Hotel Group, once we arrived, we proceeded through Virgin America security to board their celebratory inaugural international flight from Los Angeles & San Francisco to Toronto. The irreverent launch resonated with the Virgin brand’s Canadian roots – Sir Richard Branson and Canadian export Grammy winning musician Drake co-hosted the flight.

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Girl Talk Invite

Art of Elysium, one of our very favorite homegrown LA based charities started by the extraordinary Jennifer Howell, has incredible programs for artists and children. This year we were honored to attend the Girl Talk Fashion Show and graduation at The Los Angeles Children’s Hospital in the Saban theater.

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Actress Kate Mara, who plays Hayden on American Horror Story and starred opposite James Franco in 127 Hours, has designed shoes for charity.  In collaboration with Milk & Honey shoes, Kate has designed the “Pearl Pink” patent leather pump. All sales from the purchase of these shoes will be donated to her charity of choice, Uweza, an organization that fights against poverty in Kibera.

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APJ Directors Gerald Butler and Paul Haggis suited up to save the children of Haiti photo credit: SSD

Director Paul Haggis and his non profit organization Artists for Peace and Justice held “A Ring to Educate a Child in Haiti” at world renowned Vhernier jewelry boutique in the heart of  Beverly Hills to unveil a very special unisex ring.  Vhernier partnered with APJ to create a limited edition sterling silver ring lined in gold (only 1000 made) with all profits going to the organization.  Actors AnnaLynne McCord, Elizabeth Banks and Gerald Butler attended the event to show their support for the cause.

On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 earthquare devestated the town of Port-au-Prince in Haiti, destroying homes, businesses, families…but not crushing the dreams of Haiti’s children. APJ is dedicated to restoring Haiti.  APJ supports communities in Haiti through programs in education, health and dignity. The organization’s immediate goal is to build schools to serve the poorest areas of Haiti, providing an education, hot meals, clean drinking water and regular medical treatments to the children living in the slums.

Ben Stiller, Charlize Theron, Clint Eastwood, James Franco, Jane Fonda, Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, and Russel Crowe are just some of the hollywood power who are loyal APJ advisory board members.

The event showcased Vhernier’s limited edition Pirouette Ring, available in silver and rose gold. Purchasing the $1,370 ring gives a child one  year of tuition at the St. Luc Street Schools as well as at the Academy for Peace and Justice in Haiti.

Pirouette Rings on display with a photograph of Olivia Wilde in Haiti. Photo Credit: SSD

With APJ awarding 100% of all the proceeds raised to the children in Haiti, and many event supporters stating that an education is priceless, clearly explains why the Pirouette Ring flew off the showroom shelves.

Up close and personal with the limited edition pirouette ring. Photo Credit: SSD

Ana Castracane of Vhernier Beverly Hills (pictured above modeling the Pirouette Ring) told us at SSD that her trip to Haiti changed her life.   The most important message Ana wanted to get across is that although more than a year has passed since the devastation hit Haiti, there is still a substantial amount of work to be done for the children.  She told us it is critical that private organizations step in and give the children the help they need and deserve.

Here’s a touching video featuring Marc, an adorable little boy who wants to be a filmmaker, who takes us inside his world to show us first hand what life is now like for him in Haiti.

Marc APJ from APJ Now on Vimeo.

APJ, established in early 2009, is a fundraising effort founded by Paul Haggis and friends that encourages peace and social justice and addresses issues of poverty and enfranchisement in communities around the world.

APJ Director Paul Haggis with SSD Co Founder Crystal Fambrini. Photo Credit: SSD

APJ Director of Communications Dana Maksimovich graciously greeted the elite crowd of roughly 100, despite literally being due any second to have her second child.

Director of Communications Dana Maksimovich (left) and Communications Cordinator Kathryn Everett. Photo Credit: SSD

A true feeling of inspiration and hope filled this intimate gathering. SSD is very honored to be included at this wonderful APJ event, special thanks to APJ friend John Ryan Jr for getting us involved. We very much look forward to participating more with this organization.

SSD Co Founder Crystal Fambrini with SSD Co founder Actress AnnaLynne McCord. Stipple: Click on AnnaLynne's Susie Rose shirt to find out where she got it! I have this same shirt and this brand is cute, flattering and best of all a STEAL.

Style Seen Daily friend and Toms Shoes CEO and Founder Blake Mycoskie. We heart you Blake! xo

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Watch my interview with Blake here from when he FIRST launched his amazing company.

TOMS Launched New Line of Shoes Inspired by Social Activism

Actress Selita Ebanks visits Good Day New York to promote New Yorkers For Children & her upcoming co-starring guest appearance on Hawaii Five O.  Ebanks wore a Milly dress and Christian Louboutin pumps on Good Day NY.

Ebanks plays Sean Diddy Combs wife on the April 18^th episode on CBS.

Selita Ebanks attended The New Yorkers For Children Spring Dinner Dance at Mandarin Oriental in NYC, looking chic in a Balenciaga dress, Christian Louboutin shoes and a Lanvin clutch.

The New Yorkers for Children Foundation benefits young adults in the New York’s Foster Care system.  Selita has been an avid supporter for many years, as the foster care system is a program that hits close to home.  Selita continues to display fashion, grace and style while supporting a positive cause that caters to and benefits numerous lives.

Tory Burch Pictured Above.

Tory is wearing her Tory Burch special edition Japan Relief T-shirt—100% of the net proceeds of every T-shirt sold until 9/15/2011, will go to the American Red Cross to benefit the Japan earthquake & Pacific tsunami relief efforts.

The $29 T-shirts are available for sale now at ToryBurch.com and in select Tory Burch boutiques. Click here to purchase.

A true visionary, TOMS Creator Blake Mycoskie makes the world a better place with his fashion. Photo Credit: Steve Garcia

TOMS, the shoe brand known for its One for One motto, launched its new line of footwear inspired by the late social activist Dan Eldon. Both TOMS and Eldon’s stories are incredible which is why it makes sense the worlds have collided. TOMS, which is based in LA, manufactures shoes with a purpose; for each pair of shoes purchased, a pair of shoes is given to a child in need in countries in South America, Africa, and even parts of the U.S. This launch party, held at their new gallery space at Space 15 Twenty in Hollywood was an event filled with great food, celebrities, inspirational speakers, and of course, shoes.

A pregnant Selma Blair got her hands dirty for a good cause with her boyfriend, fashion designer Jason Bleick. Photo Credit: Steve Garcia

Actor David Arquette, TV chef Curtis Stone, and actress Selma Blair were among Hollywood’s hottest to attend the event that featured amazing food catered by LA’s famous Umami Burger.

A pregnant Selma Blair got her hands dirty to support the company with boyfriend Jason Bleick. Photo Credit: Steven Garcia

Dan Eldon’s mother Kathy and sister Ann spoke about the inspirational life Dan lived and the way his life has impacted so many people and will continue to do so.

Dan Eldon's sister Amy and mother Kathy, spoke to honor their beloved brother and son. Photo Credit: Steven Garcia

Dan Eldon was a social activist and photographer in the 1990′s, he was brutally stoned to death at age 23 while shooting meaningful photos in a dangerous city in Africa. This new TOMS line features shoes inspired by Africa, Dan’s photographs, and his journal that kept amazing stories about his journey.

Dan Eldon's incredible life and vision produced multiple books all revolving around the thought that the journey is the destination. Photo Credit: Steven Garcia

Eldon and his family’s story is inspirational, and will soon be turned into a movie starring Julia Roberts playing Dan’s mother Kathy Eldon.

TOMS Founder and Kathy Eldon in front of the wall of handprints. Photo Credit: Steven Garcia

TOMS creator and friend of SSD, Blake Mycoskie, spoke about his new Spring 2011 collection and the amazing feats this fashion line completes each day.

Dan Eldon's finger print was a common theme throughout the night and was used as a print for a shoe design. Photo Credit: Steven Garcia

A few hours before the event, my Aunt Joanne Marien, who attended the event with me, found out her non-profit organization Good For Kids, which benefits children in Costa Rica, will now be receiving shipments of 17,000 TOMS shoes for the children. She was thrilled to talk to Blake and thank him for everything he has done to help the world’s children.

Joanne Marien's charity Good For Kids in Costa Rica will now be one of the TOMS drop sites for shoes for children in need. Photo Credit: SSD

Umami, known for it’s gourmet burgers, had passed platters of several types of juicy sliders, sweet potato fries, french fries, smushed potatoes, and my favorite, cheese tots. The food was a hit and so was the Ultimate Vodka drinks and music spun by DJ Egon.

Umami Burger passed around sliders like their delicious Box Burger and SoCal Burger. Photo Credit: Steven Garcia

To find out more about TOMS new Spring 2011 Collection, and to make a difference in a child’s life, visit www.TOMSshoes.com.

Pictured above from left to right: Mira Sorvino, Andie MacDowell, Jessica Lange, Milla Jovovich, Lauren Hutton, Marcia Cross, Eva Longoria, Lutz Bethge (CEO of Montblanc International), Emily Blunt, Helen Hunt, Sienna Miller, Susan Sarandon and Christina Ricci.

Style Seen Daily  attended the “Montblanc Signature For Good Gala Benefitting UNICEF” held at the Los Angeles Paramount Lot.

It almost felt like the Oscars itself, as a slew of A listers dressed to impress came out to support this major charity initiative for worldwide literacy.   We talked one on one with all the stars present, and have an exclusive photo of Reese Witherspoon (who donated $50,000 to the charity!).

Style Seen Daily gives you an exclusive look inside the Montblanc & UNICEF charity event with host Reese Witherspoon.

The ‘Montblanc Signature for Good’ activity is one of Montblanc’s major charity initiatives. Their kick-off event unveiled 12 portraits of Internationally known actresses Emily Blunt, Marcia Cross, Andie MacDowell, Helen Hunt, Lauren Hutton, Milla Jovovich, Jessica Lange, Eva Longoria, Sienna Miller, Christina Ricci, Susan Sarandon, and Mira Sorvino.  These portraits are currently up for auction to raise money for UNICEF‘s effort to combat illiteracy.  Every single actress came out to the event to show their support.

Andie MacDowell told us directly her thoughts on the portraits:  ”It’s a really glamorous way to bring attention to a very important need about education for countries all over the world.  I have been very blessed, I have a great life, I have wonderful opportunities and I don’t take it for granted.  I like doing charity work and I think eventually I will end up just doing that.”

MacDowell was not shy about revealing her true thoughts on why she thinks her photo turned out so great, “Well I’m 50 years old and it’s kind of a stupid thing to say but the lighting was really really good.  Great hair and make up, they made me look so beautiful!”

Sienna Miller also enjoyed participating in the project and said to us: “It was not like a normal photo shoot because it was not just posing. They gave us characters from novels.  I was Natasha from Warner and I loved it because I had a role to get into which is easy because I’m an actress and it made it easier for me.  I’m not very good at just standing there and posing. It was fun we had such a good time.”

And Eva Longoria shared to us: “When they asked me to do it I thought why not?! It’s only 2 hours out of my day to do a photo shoot and it will help millions of kid all over the world.”

The 12 portraits unveiled at the Montblanc & UNICEF event.

Guests arrived dressed in old Hollywood glamour, and we watched as the lovely Dita von Teese took the carpet wearing a silk chiffon Christian Lacroix gown, from the 2008 collection, the long draped skintone dress had a copper bow, pink ombre train, matching clutch and Dita had a Montblanc bow necklace.

Dita von Teese.

Supporter Lucy Liu wore a white Giambattista sheath dress with a wool cape and a taupe clutch.

Lucy Liu.

Marcia Cross arrived wearing a Elie Saab lilac sparkling gown with cap sleeves, floral details, an empire waist and a Swarovski clutch.

Marcia Cross.

Following these ladies came Christina Ricci who wore a sweet LBD from Monique Lhuillier. Along with her ruffled dress, she had tan Christian Louboutin heels and a black satin clutch.  (The majority of shoes walking the red carpet were Christian Louboutins!)

Christina Ricci.

Our last three favorite looks inlcuded Helen Hunt in a black Dolce and Gabbana satin dress with matching pumps…

Helen Hunt.

Eva Longoira’s chocolate brown Reem Acra dress….

Eva Longoria.

and Sienna Miller’s flowing multi colored Ungaro gown… (it was also Slumdog Millionaire Star Anil Kapoor‘s favorite as well and he was so struck that he asked us for a personal introduction and ofcourse we were happy to make that connection)

Sienna Miller.

Inside the event, Montblanc, SIGNATURE INTERNATIONAL and UNICEF unveiled the images shot by American photographer Roger Moenks where each actress portrayed a heroine from one of literature’s timeless classics, including Scarlett O’Hara from Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wind”, Juliet from Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”, Marguerite Gauthier and from “La Dame aux Camélias” by Alexandre Dumas.

Each actress signed the Limited Edition photo on arrival of the event, and the CEO of Montblanc International, Lutz Bethge, revealed all images in a dramatic drop of a curtain. Lutz stressed the importance of the initiative stating, “Support of the underprivileged cannot stop when times are tough. We are very proud to benefit from the support of these 12 extraordinary ladies to take our work with UNICEF one step further and enhance our joint commitment to support education programmes.”

After the ladies were introduced and their stunning portraits revealed, Michael York invited the 250 guests to a sit down dinner where Reese Witherspoon presented UNICEF with a huge $50,000 check that she personally donated.

The 12 pictures were auctioned off on International Literacy Day — September 9th.

Recipients of the portraits will get the personally signed picture of the individual actress and a precious version of the Montblanc Meisterstück, the legendary and timeless writing instrument that is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year, a rare limited edition of only 12 pieces worldwide, dedicated to UNICEF.

UNICEF and Montblanc have shared an important common goal over the years – working together to fight illiteracy around the world by giving the “power to write” to underprivileged individuals. In previous years the Power To Write campaign has raised over 1 Million USD in Montblanc boutiques across the world towards education programmes initiated by UNICEF.

For more coverage of this event visit the official Signature For Good website.

It’s always fashionable and in style to give back and help the world.  Scott Harrison, founder of Charity: Water, has asked that we help spread the word about his AMAZING non profit by embedding this video on our Style Seen Daily blog – and he would love for you to do the same.  I first met Scott a few years ago when he was starting this journey and to see him come so far, and help thousands of people, in just a short amount of time is incredible and inspiring.  And what’s even more incredible is I know he is just beginning and will continue to help better the lives of thousands, and eventually millions, of people.  Please take a moment to watch his new video below to learn more about Charity: Water and how you can help.

A special note from Charity Water:

This September, charity: water turns 3 years old. 

In just three years, we’ve raised more than $10 million through over 60,000 donors and helped more than 700,000 people in 16 countries get access to clean and safe drinking water. We’re just getting started. 

This September, we need your help to serve a million people and then keep going.

Were you born in September? Give up your birthday and ask for your age in dollars.

Not born in September? Run, walk, swim, dance or just be creative. 

Sign up now at borninseptember.org

The story of charity: water – The 2009 September Campaign Trailer from charity: water on Vimeo.

Also, here is one of Charity: Water’s latest events we covered: Blake Lively Hosts Swarovski & Charity: Water