Yorkdale, David Yurman jewellery, a Raptor, and an important cause.
Just another Tuesday in Toronto.
Last night, Holt Renfrew Yorkdale held a well-curated David Yurman trunk show that featured all of the latest men’s collections and was hosted by Toronto Raptor Landry Fields.
Most of us – ahem, ladies – are familiar with luxury jewellery designer David Yurman by now. The trunk show was filled with no shortage of rings, timepieces, necklaces, and bracelets from the men’s collection, which is growing to be as popular as the women’s.
What you may not be as familiar with is the A21 Campaign, the not-for-profit organization fighting to end human trafficking – currently the fastest growing crime in the world. Ten per cent of all of all David Yurman sales last night were donated to the cause.
But be warned: Some of the pieces may require the salary of an NBA player.
Speaking of the NBA, Fields – a 26-year-old California native – was drafted by the New York Knicks in 2010, then signed a $20 million deal with the Toronto Raptors in July 2012. His new wife (and mother of his young son) Elaine Alden joined him at the event.
Naturally, we took a few minutes to catch up with Fields…
Were you a fan of David Yurman beforehand?
I was joking earlier that I only really knew about David Yurman for the five years that I’ve been in the NBA. Beforehand, I didn’t know anything except for the tiny women’s bracelets. I’m into it now, though; especially with the big statement pieces when I am in the mood for them.
Do you have your eye on anything in particular?
I am really big fan of the timepieces. I have one on right now.
What’s the most important thing when it comes to your wardrobe?
I just try to look somewhat classy. I don’t like when things are too blatantly extravagant or showy. Some guys like to make a statement with things like logos, but I try to keep it classic and at the same time moderate it with whatever’s in fashion.
How to you find balance in life?
During the season, it’s tough. You kind of have to live your job; you’re there every day and the schedules change with games a lot. It’s about making time for family as much as you can and really trying to get out of the “basketball mode” when it’s not going on.
Are you going to put your son in basketball?
I’ll try to. But my dad never pressured me; that takes the passion out of the game. If he likes it, he likes it. If not, he can do something else.
What’s your biggest career highlight to date?
Honestly, getting drafted in the first place was a highlight. I wasn’t expecting to be drafted or for any of this to happen. So that was a high moment for me; then coming into my second contract in Toronto was kind of like the icing on it all. A great contract, a really nice city…
What do you miss most about California?
The beaches; I was a big surfing and skateboarding kid growing up and I still have a bunch of family and friends out there as well. Going back, it’s always a big family atmosphere.
What do you like best about Toronto?
I love the food here; it’s actually a lot better than I expected. I love Grand Electric and Electric Mud. Momofuku is also amazing – I’ve got to have my noodles. The fan base here is really phenomenal. I thought it was more of a hockey town before I got there. But lo and behold, they actually love their basketball, especially now with how well we’re doing. The backing of the team is really electric at the ACC.
And Drake’s a huge fan. Are you friends?
We’re not friends – we’ve met here and there – but I’m a huge fan of his music. He’s probably the only rapper I listen to now, because so much of it is crap right now. But having a guy like that to show face and bring US attention to the Canadian basketball market is great.
You’re big on social media. What’s the biggest mistake people can make?
People often state their opinions about things that they’re sort of ignorant about, especially when it comes to political issues. They like to give a heavy, strong emotion without any backing to it and without knowing the full facts. People are either ignorant or experts, there’s little in between, though ignorant people like to think they’re experts. Before you Tweet, do your research; you’ll be called out on it.
Thoughts on Canadians?
They’re so nice. They say “sorry” after everything and the “eh” thing is actually a real thing – but I like it.
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