30 Nov 2015

Cozy Navy


Today's outfit was worn on a lazy Sunday at home. I was in the perfect mind frame to work on my handmade Christmas cards. It's become a tradition that I make my cards every year. I take over and entire room with all my scrapbooking gear. It really requires a lot of stuff! That's why when I get the urge to craft and the creativity is flowing, I take advantage of it and pump those cards out like a crazy person. To get in the zone, I chose to wear comfortable printed jeans, a dark top (would show less if I were to get ink on it) and some super cozy socks. I always have cold feet, I swear that my toes are too long for my heart to pump blood into them... Turns out it was a very productive day! I was able to make 23 cards this year! I have to cut myself off at some point because, with the size of my family, I would still be making cards come Easter...

Jeans: H&M | Top: Joe Fresh | Socks: Mukluks

29 Nov 2015

The Show Stopper


You may recognize the necklace I am wearing as I wore it not to long ago (here). While the previous look was more glam, today's outfit is a way of wearing this fabulous bib necklace in a more casual way. I chose to wear a ballerina neckline striped top to allow enough negative space for the necklace to fill without overlapping with the top. I then added burgundy skinny jeans, a charcoal military blazer and taupe over-the-knee boots. The charcoal, burgundy and taupe are all pulled from the necklace, therefore harmonizing the look. For outdoors, I wore my charcoal lululemon coat and added my taupe faux-fur stole to match the boots while the burgundy hat was chosen to match the jeans. I simply repeated the colour palette from the indoors' look.


Jeans: Garage | Top: Garage | Blazer: Smart Set | Necklace: RW&CO | Earrings: Smart Set | Boots: Wild Diva Lounge | Hat: Old Navy | Coat: Lululemon | Stole: RW&CO | Gloves: Old Navy 

28 Nov 2015

Lace Expert-Tease




The holiday season is upon us and that means plenty of occasions to wear fancy clothes! My first event of the season was a high-class soirĂ©e in my favourite jewelry stores. They host this event every year and it has become a staple in my social calendar. I love any excuse to dress up and enjoy an evening of jewels, wine and great company. Seeing as I was going to the event straight from work, I opted for an outfit that could easily transition from one venue to the next. I chose a comfortable lace-overlay dress and belted it with my suede waist belt. For the office, I added a bejeweled-trim cardigan to give it a more conservative feel. I simply took off the cardigan for the evening and grabbed the suede clutch I had packed in my day bag. I quickly reapplied a layer of lipstick (red tends to fade a bit as the day progresses) and off I went! Try to put together outfits that can easily be modified to get you from one place to the next in a flash! Time is of the essence during this season.

Dress: Suzy Shier | Cardigan: H&M | Belt: H&M | Bracelet: Pandora | Earrings: Smart Set | Booties: Sergio Bari | Clutch: Ricki's

27 Nov 2015

Burgundy Flutter


Mini skirts with movement are so fun and feminine. This little flutter edge adds so much dimension to the outfit. Today, I wore it in a more business casual way by pairing the skirt with a faux-wrap sweater and suede booties. This skirt could easily be dressed up or down. In the summer, I could wear it with a simple graphic T and flats for a no-fuss outfit. I could also dress it up with a nice blouse and pumps. There are plenty of options when it comes to styling this skirt. Ruffle trims are always welcome in my book!

Skirt: Banana Republic | Tank: Smart Set | Sweater: Reitmans | Necklace: Kendra Scott (other colour) | Earrings: H&M | Booties: Zara | Coat: H&M | Scarf: (gift) | Hat: (souvenir)

26 Nov 2015

TBT - Deep Blue Sea


"La mer, qu'on voit danser..."

Ah, the sea, such depth of beauty! This outfit is ocean inspired from port to starboard. It is composed of three different shades of blue, which can each be considered as the color of the sea. The top of the look is in lighter shades, representing the shallow areas. The further down the eye travels, the darker the colours, similar to the darkening of the water as one descends deeper into the fathoms of the sea. The tights are reminiscent of fishing nets, not uncommonly seen in or near the ocean. There is a certain peace to this outfit, it is soothing, in a way that is similar to letting oneself be rocked by the waves...


Skirt: Smart Set | T-shirt: Smart Set | Cardigan: Jacob | Necklace: Pandora | Earrings: Northern Reflections | Bracelet: Smart Set | Tights: Joe Fresh | Shoes: ABS by Allen Schwarts

25 Nov 2015

Fashion Forward




My little black dress got a futuristic makeover today. The shape of the dress is A-line, so I decided to pair it with my cropped tweed and leather jacket. I love the edgier more rocker vibe the jacket gives the dress. I chose to also wear my grey suede over-the-knee boots to really complete the vibe. I'm not convinced the proportions of the dress with the boots hits the mark. But, I don't completely dislike it. I'm on the fence about this pairing... For the outside look I wore my Lululemon coat and checked blanket scarf (current style crush). I like pairing formal pieces with more eccentric ones. It makes for a fresh take on a classic combination (dress plus jacket) and brings it into the now!

Dress: Banana Republic | Jacket: H&M | Neckalce: (gift) | Earrings: A Touch of Whimsy | Boots: Aldo | Coat: Lululemon | Scarf: Old Navy (other colour)

24 Nov 2015

Cozy on Over


Can't get any more functional than a cable-knit sweater, a pair of skinny jeans and riding boots. I love this particular sweater because its colour is rich and neutral. It is also quite warm and cozy because it's made of an alpaca wool-blend, which is some of the softest wool ever. I've been to an alpaca farm before and they are just the cutest things! Plus I love how they hum, it's so precious! They sound like little kazoos! Speaking of farms, this outfit would be perfect for visiting a local farm, a farmer's market, a petting zoo or can even be worn on a casual Friday! Whatever your plans, this look can take you anywhere you want to go!

Jeans: Second Yoga Jeans | Sweater: Smart Set | Scarf: Excite | Earrings: H&M | Boots: Henry Ferrera

23 Nov 2015

Popcorn and Peanuts


My brother has always been a die-hard fan of the Peanuts gang, so we could not pass up the opportunity of seeing the new Peanuts movie in theatre during his short visit. It was an absolutely endearing movie and it stayed very true to the authentic Charlie Brown woes. Snoopy was the best! Seeing as I'd be sitting in a crowded theatre, I opted for comfortable clothing. In come the leggings and tunic cable-knit sweater! I added a scarf, warm knit socks and my trusty cape to the look. There is nothing I hate more than having to take off a big coat and not knowing what to do with it afterwards. The cape saves me from having to deal with that. It is plenty breathable that I don't have to remove it! Unlike Charlie Brown, I was not a blockhead when putting together my outfit. I was very practical in my dressing!

Leggings: DynamiteSweater: Jacob | Scarf: Saachi | Earrings: Dynamite | Belt: Dynamite | Socks: Old Navy| Booties: Blondo | Cape: Zara

22 Nov 2015

Checked & Quilted


This is my lumber-chic ladies who lunch look! My brother and sister-in-law were in town for a visit and we were all headed to lunch. I started with a striped top and built the outfit from there. I added a red and black checked quilted vest and distressed denim to give it that lumberjack vibe. I then added more feminine touches with the over-the-knee boots, bejeweled headband and fold-over clutch. Chis meets woodsy in this mash up!

Jeans: Banana RepublicVest: Old Navy | Shirt: Smart Set | Headband: Dynamite | Earrings: Smart Set | Boots: NY VIP

21 Nov 2015

Grey Skies



Today, I dressed like the weather: dark and grey! A rainy Friday called for comfy attire in gloomy shades. I reached for my gray sweater and dark skinnies and draped a warm blanket (oh sorry, cape) around my shoulders to stay warm and dry. I topped off the look with a black hat and booties. Some days just call for a no-fuss look that is comfortable and functional. I did not sacrifice style, just turned it down a few notches for today. I jumped ahead into weekend mode a tad earlier, that's all.

Jeans: Second Yoga Jeans | Sweater: Dynamite | Cape: RW&CO | Hat: Nordstrom | Earrings: Callura | Booties: Blondo

20 Nov 2015

Accessorize Like a Boss


I like a good statement piece and this bib necklace is very loud! I knew I had to have it the moment I spotted it. I could not stop thinking of possible ways to style it, my brain was on overdrive! Today, I chose to wear it with my burgundy leather mini and my metallic grey sweater and burnout tights. This look is so glam! I agree that all this shine can give a slight disco-ball illusion, but it is not as shiny in person. The camera flash makes it look way shinier than it really is. I absolutely love the in-your-face effect of the necklace, it really makes the outfit! This look could easily be worn to a multitude of festive activities in the upcoming season. Work party, happy hour, family diner, you name it! Shine on my fellow fashionistas!

Skirt: Dynamite (other colour) | Sweater: RW&CO | Necklace: RW&CO | Tights: Dynamite | Earrings: Smart Set | Boots: Call it Spring

19 Nov 2015

TBT - Sweet Mini


It was obviously a tad warmer out when I wore this outfit! We are now officially past the bare-legs-and-sandals weather... I paired my polka dot mini with a black peplum top and black bolero. I added a multi-strand pearl necklace and loved that it created what seemed like a reverse polka dot effect on the top! Black polka dots on a beige background on the bottom and the illusion of beige polka dots on a black background on the top! I love creating illusions with simple accessorizing! This easy add-on was the perfect harmonizing touch to the outfit and instantly completed the look. I wore very neutral coloured sandals to keep the focus off the feet. Peplum tops are great options if you are not a fan of tucking in your shirts. They are meant to be worn over your waistband!


Skirt: J. Crew Factory | Top: Smart Set | Necklace: ebay | Bolero: Smart Set | Earrings: Smart Set | Bracelet: Pandora | Sandals: Quipid


18 Nov 2015

Pink Cable-Knit


Ok, it is officially sweater-weather and I couldn't be more delighted! I actually love winter, it's so magical! Today's sweater is a thick wool-blend cable-knit and its pink shade is perfect. I love that it is slightly longer in the back and covers the bum a bit more for added warmth! I paired it with desert-wash distressed jeans to give the look a more casual vibe. I then chose to wear my taupe over-the-knee boots to really step it up a notch! This was a great outfit and it was comfortable and warm all in one!


Jeans: Banana RepublicSweater: Old Navy | Necklace: ZAD | Hat: Old Navy | Earrings: Smart Set | Boots: Wild Diva Lounge | Cape: Zara

17 Nov 2015

Fur Real


I'm getting inspired by my country upbringing again... I got a little carried away with the different textures today, incorporating a plaid print, with jean, suede and fur. This all works however, because most of the garments of varying textures are the same colour: black. Only one item shines (the shirt) and the others do not compete for the spotlight, even though they all bring a unique aspect to the outfit. I chose to wear a jean jacket as my outside layer and absolutely loved wearing the fur vest over it. This is definitely a trick I will use time and again. A jean jacket with a fur vest is a winning combination!


Leggings: Dynamite | Shirt: Old Navy | Vest: Dynamite |Belt: Dynamite | Earrings: RW&CO | Boots: NY VIP

16 Nov 2015

Black Attack


Here is another take on the all black outfit with a hint of white. Last week I wore this, and I kept the vibe going with today's outfit. I chose to wear my black brocade pants with a simple black tank top and my white blazer. I switched things up by wearing the white element on the top as opposed to the bottom. This blazer has a leatherette feature on the lapels as well as shoulder pads. Now hear me out, I don't completely condone shoulder pads. They do have their purpose. I think they can be used to create a certain silhouette. If you want a boxier, edgier look with sharp lines, shoulder pads can work very well. However, I do not think that enormous shoulder pads such as they were in the 80's and 90's are very useful anymore. You can obtain a similar, less over-the-top, look with smaller shoulder pads. Bigger is not always better!

Pants: Jacob | Tank: Old Navy | Blazer: Forever 21 |Belt: Dynamite | Earrings: Smart Set | Boots: NY VIP

15 Nov 2015

Pink, Lace and Pearls



Another outfit with my checked blanket scarf and over-the-knee grey boots. When a combination works, why change it? Today, I went for a more feminine look including pink, lace and pearls. This top has the cutest bow detail in the back as well as jeweled shoulders. The camisole worn underneath is one I have had for almost a decade now... It is a basic racer-back camisole with an elastic lace trim. I used to have them in every colour, but only hung onto the grey one. I don't care that it is ancient, I still like the fact it adds dimension to my outfits. It is only used as a layering piece now and never worn on its own. But that's ok, the piece evolved with my style. There is no use in getting rid of something if it can still serve a purpose. I am always thankful I did not throw it out every time I think of wearing it!
Jeans: Old Navy | Camisole: Garage | Sweater: Smart Set | Necklace: Smart Set | Earrings: Callura | Jacket: Smart Set | Scarf: Old Navy (other colour) | Boots: Aldo


14 Nov 2015

Step up Your Scarf Game



Blanket scarfs are the bomb! They can have so many purposes, that I am justified in owning more than one... This one is so soft and I love the warm palette of colours in the plaid. I wore it simply draped over my shoulders for indoors and pined it in place with a skirt pin for outdoors. I accessorized with gold to pick up on the yellow hues and a maroon top to pick up on the brown ones. I also figured little fur-lined booties are a perfect match for the fuzziness of the scarf. This outfit was warm in both colour and texture, a perfect autumn medley!


Jeans: Smart Set | Top: Old Navy (other colour) | Necklace: RW&CO | Earrings: Don't Ask | Bracelet: (trip souvenir) |Scarf: Zara | Booties: Very Volatile



13 Nov 2015

Move Over Pashmina, It's Poncho Time



So, I have obviously hoped onto the cape band wagon, but had yet to try the poncho. When I saw this fringed, striped version on clearance, I was sold. To really let the piece shine, I wore it with all black. I also had to wear the over-the-knee boots to compliment the length of the poncho. Lastly, I could not resist pairing it with my checked blanket scarf in similar shades. I absolutely love the way these two patterns work together! This was a very comfortable outfit that I will surely wear on repeat as the chills in the air become part of the daily forecasts!

Jeans: Banana Republic | Turtleneck: Smart Set | Poncho: Dynamite | Earrings: Callura | Scarf: Old Navy (other colour) | Gloves: Old Navy | Boots: Aldo



12 Nov 2015

TBT - Laid Back Maxi


The days of summer festivals are long gone, but that won't stop me from sharing a look I wore a couple years ago. Festivals are good fun, and seeing as most take place outdoors, it can be challenging to figure out what to wear. I try to wear flat sandals, as there is usually a lot of walking and standing on uneven ground (park lawns). I also make sure to wear a removable layer to cover up when the sun goes down. A trusty tote is a must to carry all you essentials (water, sun glasses, phone, snacks, VIP pass). I had opted to wear a comfortable maxi dress with a jean jacket and my Longchamp tote. This look hit all the right notes!

Dress: MARK Jacket: Old Navy | Belt: Smart Set | Earrings: Northern Reflections | Bag: Longchamp | Bracelet: Pandora | Sandals: Bamboo

11 Nov 2015

Baby (Blue) It's Cold Outside


So the temperature is steadily dropping, which means the winter coats are taking centre stage in my front closet! Today's forecast was odd as in the morning and evenings it was quite chilly, whereas it was quite warm during mid-day. That is why I ended up wearing strappy heels (barefoot) and a winter jacket. I wore a simple outfit comprised of a long-sleeve t-shirt and skinny jeans with a statement necklace and a shiny scarf. I was feeling the combination of baby blue and silvery grey. To avoid the outfit feeling too cold, I added a raspberry tone to warm up the look. When all was said and done, I had chosen the perfect outfit for the weather!

Jeans: Dynamite Top: Old Navy (other colour) | Necklace: Dynamite | Earrings: Reitmans | Bracelet: RW&CO | Scarf: (old) | Coat: RW&CO | Shoes: Bamboo

10 Nov 2015

A Little Prep in my Step


A navy blazer and a Breton top scream preppy to me! It's a clean cut and classic combination. I added dark wash skinny jeans instead of trousers, but since the jeans are a nice fitted cut, they fit with the clean lines of the look. I added my trusty black over-the-knee boots and a bright red scarf. I have to admit, I did feel a bit like I was going riding... Sometimes, simples outfits, comprised of tried and true basics, are the most timeless looks.

Jeans: American Eagle Shirt: Smart Set | Blazer: Smart Set | Earrings: Old Navy | Scarf: Excite | Boots: NY VIP

9 Nov 2015

All Black With a Hint of White


I am head over heels for this look! Every girl should own a black turtleneck. It is truly a staple and gives any look a hint of sophistication. I chose to wear a white brocade skirt with my turtleneck and added a statement necklace in black and slate. I opted for sheer black tights with calf-socks and suede booties. I like that the socks and ankle booties blend so well they create the illusion of boots! This outfit is comprised of all black elements except for the skirt and creates the perfect backdrop to feature the texture of the garment. For outside, I chose my black leather jacket and my signature cloche hat. I feel like this is a very prim and proper look, until the leather jacket shatters that ideology! Bam! Good girl with an edgy side!

Skirt: RW&CO Tights: Hudson's Bay | Turtle Neck: RW&CO | Earrings: (gift)| Necklace: Le Chic | Hat: Call it Spring | Jacket: Zara | Socks: Mukluk |Booties: Blondo

8 Nov 2015

For The Love of Layering


More fur, please! Today is all about the layers! Just like any good pĂ¢tĂ© chinois, the secret of a well put-together outfit lies in the layering! The layers of an outfit can be two-fold as some layers can focus strictly on colours while others are about textures and proportions. Today's outfit touches on all types of layering! Here's the breakdown. First-off, I chose a grey sweater dress and added a grey fur-vest to it (texture and proportion), I then chose to coordinate with burgundy tights and booties (colour). The fur and knit are different texture and lengths so they add interest and dimension to the outfit. By wearing tone-on-tone tights and booties, I not only colour blocked the outfit, but I also elongated the leg, which plays on the proportion of the outfit. For the outside look, I inserted a layer between the dress and vest, breaking up the overlapping greys. The black asymmetrical shawl adds drama to an otherwise tame and structured look. By separating the grey elements, it lets them shine individually. Layering is a great technique to have in your arsenal as it can transform outfits and offer more dressing options without purchasing more clothes. It also comes in handy when trying to put cold-weather outfits together. Long live layering!

Dress: Suzy Shier Tights: Old Navy | Faus-Fur Vest: Dynamite | Earrings: Callura | Necklace: Kendra ScottBooties: Zara

7 Nov 2015

Liquid Leather


Faux-leather leggings are also referred to as liquid leggings. I kind of like the sound of that! After all, they do feel like a second skin. I purchased mine in a taupe colour. Even though I run the risk of looking like I am not wearing any pants, as this colour is close to my skin tone, I got them anyways! I will most likely always wear them with a longer top that covers my bum (this is a rule of thumb of mine when wearing leggings). For today, I paired them with a long white top, a black faux-fur vest and beige fur booties. It was a very neutral palette and made feel a bit like a Viking with all this leather and fur! One thing's for sure, I was not cold today! For those of you who do not know, leather (or leather-like) pants are very hot as they are not made of a breathable fabric! For my outside look, I chose my fancy tailored navy coat and wore the vest over top, as I like to do now when the coat won't accommodate the bulkiness of my vest. Warm and neutral tones are terms I keep in mind when dressing for the fall weather.

Top: Dynamite Leggings: Dynamite | Faux Fur Vest: Dynamite | Earrings: Smart Set | Hat: Nordstrom  Coat: H&M | Booties: Very Volatile

6 Nov 2015

Locked and Loaded


This cape has definitely become my security blanket! I have sure gotten a lot of wear out of this number. It only proves that I was right in picking it up in a neutral colour scheme, as it really does go with everything! Today, I chose to wear it as a sweater and belted it in place with an enormous waist belt. I figured the proportions of the belt would be perfect to balance out the volume created by the cape, not to mention give it shape. I kept the rest of the outfit simple by wearing my go-to skinny jeans and brown suede booties. Try to look at your clothes in a new light, sometimes garments have more potential than they seem to have when first purchased.

Jeans: Second Yoga Jeans Top: Smart Set | Cape: Dynamite | Belt: Anarchy Gallery | Earrings: Smart Set | Booties: Sergio Bari

5 Nov 2015

TBT - Colour Punch


Summer is long gone, but I still like to look back on some of the more cheerful looks I've worn. It brightens up the days, especially after we turn back the clocks... This outfit is colourblocked and made up of a purple pencil skirt, an icy blue top and a chartreuse cardigan. The colours were all pulled from my earrings. I absolutely loved this combination and found it fresh and trendy. While some outfits need a little pop of colour to bring them to life, this one was popping colour all over the place! 

Skirt: Ricki's Top: Jacob | Cardigan: Old Navy | Earrings: Fifth Avenue | Bracelet: (gift)| Sandals: Payless Shoe Source

4 Nov 2015

Stripes and Cognac

 

I sure like my stripes! This particular top has a thin stripe and a ballerina neckline. I chose to pair my cognac jeans with the top and made the black of the stripes stand out more by wearing a black scarf and black over-the-knee boots. I'm aware of the so-called fashion rule that black and brown should not be worn together, but I think it is complete nonsense! Sure, some might argue that cognac is not exactly brown, but it is close enough for me. I really love this outfit and feel it would be perfect for weekend days, movie dates or even running errands. Any simple top and jeans combination can be dressed up by adding a scarf and boots. A simple trick for taking you from bumming around the house to out the door at a moment's notice! Smart and speedy dressing for the win!

Jeans: Old Navy (similar)Top: Garage | Camisole: Smart Set | Earrings: Claire's | Scarf: Saachi | Boots: NY VIP