Black and Blooms

Black pants: you can't go wrong with that! It's the perfect building block for any work look. I get the feeling I will be wearing these often in the next few weeks. My clothes is still at the cleaners and no word yet on what will be salvaged. Fingers crossed I get something ahead of the seasons changing! Today, I paired my pants with a pastel floral blouse and cognac accessories. I felt the need to add a camisole under the blouse because of the gaping under the arms. It's a simple solution to making a looser top less revealing. I'm really trying my best to make interesting outfits with the little clothing I currently have. I know it's a temporary situation, but it's starting to feel more and more like a long-term temporary, if you get my gist. I'm trying to stay positive, but some days are harder than others...

Pants: Dynamite | Top: Dynamite | Camisole: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Belt: American Eagle | Flats: George (Walmart)

Teal Next Time

Party's over, back to reality. After a late night, the next morning came quickly. We grabbed a bite to eat with the family before each heading our separate ways. Keeping in line with my usual weekend packing habits, I decided to wear the same shorts on the way back. It might also have something to do with the fact I only have a couple pairs of shorts to begin with... Either way, I chose the denim ones as they are more versatile. I simply paired them with a teal tank, minimalist jewelry and my trusty Birkenstocks. I swear, I have never gotten so much wear out of a single pair of shoes! I've said it before, but I'll say it again. If you only have one pair of sandals, make them Birkenstocks, you won't regret it!


 Shorts: American Eagle | Tank: George (Walmart) | Belt: American Eagle | Necklace: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Sandals: Birkenstock

Fancy Soirée

So, we attended my mom's President's Banquet to mark the end of her second mandate as the Ontario Teacher's Federation's President. We were not going to miss this milestone, so out we went to purchase fancy clothes. I already had an outfit planned out for this event, but seeing as I could no longer wear that, I had to kick it into high gear and find an alternative. Off to Banana Republic I went! I know I can always count on BR for classic pieces. I was lucky enough to snag this sapphire blue dress on sale and got some nude sandals to go with it. The necklace and earring set is one I've had for ages, and had been planning on wearing it to this event, so when I found the blue dress, it was meant to be! This jewellery was actually stored in its original clam box and survived the fire and smoke damage. The final missing link to complete the look was a clutch. I waltzed into Aldo and low and behold found the perfect pink bag on clearance. I swear, my shopping karma was definitely on point that day! We had an absolute blast that evening! It was great seeing friends and family and meeting who my mom has been working with all year. She is definitely a passionate and devoted teacher and all that she has done for the teaching profession over the years is not going unnoticed. I am extremely proud of the work she has done and can only hope to one day be as successful in life as she has been. She is the best role model a daughter can ask for. Je t'aime maman!

Dress: Banana Republic | Necklace: Fifth Avenue Collection | Earrings: Fifth Avenue Collection | Bracelet: Pandora | Clutch: Aldo | Sandals: Banana Republic

Discovery Day

We went for a little road trip on our way to my mom's banquet and stopped in a quaint little town at a B&B for the night. Once there, we were looking for something to do, when we found out about this new winery. I discovered a taste for wine a few years back on a trip to Niagara Falls and have loved touring wineries ever since. Let me tell you, this recent discovery was a real gem! It is called Potter Settelement Winery and is located right on the edge of the Canadian Shield. It is owned and operated by actor and model Sandor Johnson, who happened to also be the one to give us a private tasting. These wines were absolutely out of this world! This winery has revived a few traditional strains of grapes that had been developed by our French ancestors when they immigrated to Canada. Those strains have become extremely rare, seeing as they were fazed out by the bigger liquor companies in favour of more commonly preferred grapes. I am so happy Potter Settlement is reintroducing them to the world, one bottle at a time. While very exclusive, should you get the opportunity to try any of their wines, I highly suggest you do! 

Shorts: American Eagle | Top: (Donated) | Necklace: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoes Source | Sandals: Birkenstock

Familiar Find

When rebuilding a wardrobe from scratch, I'm tempted to hit my favourite stores. Dynamite has always be a go-to of mine, as they are affordable, trendy and fit my body well. I also know they have staples that are always available, simply updated every season. I was looking for a dress that would be good for work, but that could also be worn for many different occasions. I was extremely happy to find my favourite dress in this season's print! It's a great feeling when you find a piece exactly like the one you owned, but still different. That familiar feeling is a true comfort in these difficult times. It was nice being able to rely on a regular shopping destination! Thanks for having my back Dynamite!

Dress: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Flats: George (Walmart)

Greyscale

A simple grey tee with black jeans is all a girl needs to look put together. Dark washed denim always looks more professional and polished than lighter washes. The black piping around the neck line of the t-shirt gives it a slightly more sophisticated feel. Add black wedges to the mix and I'd say this is an ok look for a casual office setting! At this point, I'm trying really hard to find ways of making casual clothing work for the office. It is possible to look put together without breaking the bank. It just requires a bit of ingenuity!

Jeans: Jordache (Walmart) | Top: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Shoes: Payless Shoe Source

TBT - Ariel Vibes

I was hit by a wave of inspiration when I put this look together! I turned to yet another Disney princess for my fun look. I paired my purple t-shirt with my bright green skirt for a more modest take on the traditional purple seashell bra and green fish tail. I added a mint teardrop necklace as it reminds me a bit of seashells and finished with light pink studded sandals. I obviously let my hair down with a lot of volume to make is seam like I'm under the sea! Although it's been a couple summers already that I have worn this look, it still puts a smile on my face!

Top: Smart Set | Skirt: Jacob | Earrings: RW&CO | Necklace: ebay | Bracelet: Pandora | Sandals: Bamboo

Coral Cigarette

I decided a useful garment to purchase would be a proper black work pant. I opted for this cigarette-shaped one and think it will be very versatile. I mean, you can't go wrong with black cigarette pants, they were after all one of Audrey Hepburn's staples! I decided to pair them with a coral blouse, which was donated to me by a dear friend. Little did she know, I actually own/owned the same one! Great minds think alike! I even recently featured it in this post! It's sort of nice to have an exact piece I had. I decided to accessorize with a cognac belt and shoes to give the look an overall summery feel. I'm definitely learning to maximize the few pieces of clothing I do have to truly get the most wear out of them! Needless to say, this is a change of pace from what I'm used to, but I am up for the challenge! 

Pants: Dynamite | Blouse: Smart Set (donated) | Camisole: Dynamite | Belt: American Eagle | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Flats: George (Walmart)

Just Keep Swimming

So I ended up going to Simons for the first time in my life. I know, it's hard to believe, but it's true. I was so happy when I found this adorable seahorse-print skirt! I've always had a soft spot for seahorses. For a long time, when I was younger, I use to say the seahorse was my favourite animal. I was also fascinated by the fact the males of this species carry the eggs! Anyways, this voluminous skirt is cheerful and whimsical. I dressed it up a tad with my new black wedges (which happen to be my only work-shoe for the time being) and a white t-shirt, seeing as I had to attend an information fair at work. That's right, second day back and I'm as busy as can be. It's probably better that way, it serves as a great distraction. The blue of the seahorses remind me a little bit of Dory. A fish who's motto has never rung so true to me: Just keep swimming! Such a wise fishy. True words to live by!

Skirt: Simons | Top: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Necklace: Dynamite | Shoes: Payless Shoe Source

Back to Work

When Monday morning came around, it was time to go back to work. The best part of the week following the fire was spent filtering the contents of the home and determining the next steps. We were also searching for alternate living arrangements for the time being. Once those things were dealt with, we have to get back into a routine of some sort and find a level or normalcy. Going back to work would definitely help in attaining that. I must say, it felt wonderful to go into work! It was a familiar place, with familiar things. It provides me with a bit more stability. The environment and my colleagues are all part of my "normal", so it felt wonderful being on familiar ground. Although this step isn't always easy to take, I'm happy I took it sooner rather than later. I'm sure it contributes to my well-being in a positive way. I'm taking it one day at a time and I am slowly, but surely, falling into old and familiar patterns.

Jeans: Jordache (Walmart) | Camisole: Dynamite | Top: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Shoes: George (Walmart)

Railroad Distress

Now that the show's over, I have to go back home so to speak... It's a little odd taking a train home, when you don't currently have a physical place to call home. The break was nice, but I was very happy to be reunited with my partner and the puppies. We've been through some tough times, but nothing compares to what we are currently experiencing. As much as this situation could create tension, it is definitely strengthening our bond. If we can get through this next chapter together, nothing will come between us. We have the luxury of rebuilding our life together and we are eternally grateful for that opportunity because so many aren't as lucky. I was pondering all of this as I was steadily moving forward along the tracks...

I decided to wear my newly acquired distressed shorts with a burgundy Walmart top and my trusty Birkenstocks, because they are really my only option right now!


Shorts: American Eagle | Camisole: Dynamite | Top: George (Walmart) | Belt: American Eagle | Necklace: Dynamite | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Sandals: Birkenstock

The Show Must Go On

I've always been extremely grateful to have a sister (who also happens to be my best friend), but I am even more grateful towards her during this difficult time. She was one of the first phone calls on the tragic night and I have to say, simply hearing her voice was comforting beyond belief. She might not have known what to say, but I could feel the love and support in her voice. She was also more than willing to let me raid her closet to find something to wear for the concert. It's odd that we don't borrow each other's clothes more often, seeing as we are pretty much the same size... I think it has something to do with the fact we each have unique styles. Either way, I was able to put a look together. I opted for a black mini with a feather-print top and a turquoise pendant. My sister was also more than happy to style my hair for the evening. This was the first time I wore make-up since the fire. I'm not huge on make-up, but when you literally have zero products, you notice just how far mascara and lipstick take you. It was an awesome feeling to get all prettied up and did me a world of good. The concert was also amazing. Céline truly is a remarkable person with tremendous talent. She gave a very intimate show with a lot of new songs intermixed with anecdotes of her children discovering the joys a Canadian summer has to offer. I truly was in the moment and felt all of the emotions the songs brought to light. This weekend definitely helped me get centered.

Top: H&M | Necklace: Ricki's | Skirt: Eclipse | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Flats: George (Walmart)

Travelling Blues

Back in December, I had won a pair of tickets to go see Céline Dion in Montreal. Seeing as my better half is not her biggest fan, I decided to invite my super-fan sister along. We had planned the entire weekend and it was all paid for. I figured there was no reason to miss out and that it would probably do me good, take my mind off of the situation for a little while. I opted for a full blue outfit to travel in. One bonus of being downtown Montreal was the proximity to rue Sainte-Catherine, a well-known shopping destination. Sister in tow, I hit the shops to purchase a bit more clothing and the very basics to rebuild my makeup kit. It felt very normal and fun to spend some quality girl-time with my sister. Shopping skills sure run in the family!

Top: George (Walmart) | Shorts: Walmart | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Sandals: Birkenstock

TBT - Sweet Shirtdress

These Throwback Tursday pictures will be bitter-sweet from now on because I will be featuring clothes I'm not sure will be salvageable. A specialized cleaner came by the house to collect all clothing for a deep clean. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that all of it will be salvaged. Some clothing items were in the rooms most affected by the fire, so there is no saying what has been spared. Only once the cleaning process is complete will I get a list of items damaged beyond repair. Right now, I'm in a bit of a limbo as to the status of my specially-curated wardrobe. I realize it's petty to be so attached to material things, but I'd be lying if I said it was easy to detach from my clothes. I'm taking it step by step and take solace in the thought of being reunited with parts of my collection. For now, I will not mourn any potential losses and will rather focus on the hope that some will come back. I believe in the power of positive thinking!

Dress: Jacob | Belt: Smart Set | Blazer: Smart Set | Earrings: (gift) | Shoes: Call it Spring

Stripes and Skinnies

Since I'm a firm believer in the Breton-striped top, I knew I needed one in my basic wardrobe rebuild. Lucky enough, I found one at Walmart. The fit isn't perfect, but I honestly can't afford to be picky right now. I felt like my old self wearing a striped top with skinny jeans. Today, we also sat by the water a bit for a change of scenery. I figured it was a good place for a nautical outfit picture! It was also the first rain following the fire, which was a full seven days later. I think it would be an understatement to say it's been a very dry summer. I remember the feeling of relief that swept over me when I heard the sweet sound of rain falling outside. I've never been so happy and excited for rain. It almost felt as if the downpour was washing away the remnants of the nightmare we had lived and was clearing the path for a fresh start.

Top: George (Walmart) | Jeans: Jordache (Walmart) | Earrings: Payless Shoe Source | Sandals: Birkenstock

Back to Basics

Seeing as the only clothes on my back when I evacuated were my nighty and housecoat, one very generous and thoughtful neighbour lent me some clothes for the next day. I didn't even have shoes on. I left the house barefoot! I guess having an abundance of shoes made no difference whatsoever, I did not grab a single thing on my way out. I was extremely lucky a fireman had grabbed my purse and phone for me. I was later able to reach into the entrance of the house (the fire ravaged the back) to grab one pair of shoes. Luckily, those were my trusty Birkenstocks. I guess if I only had one pair of shoes for the time being, Birkenstocks is not a bad choice! So, it was back to square one in terms of clothing. I literally had the clothes on my back and that's it. One of the first stops was Walmart. We needed to get the bare essentials. For someone who has/had an abundance of clothes, I was at a loss on where to begin. I got a couple pairs of jeans and a couple camisoles and t-shirts to start. I also needed undergarments and toiletries. It's amazing to realize how little one actually needs to survive. That has never been more apparent to me. Today's look was a very basic outfit of jeans and a t-shirt. No matter whether your clothes are name brands or not, this is a winning combination!


Jeans: Jordache (Walmart) | T-shirt: George (Walmart) | Camisole: (borrowed) | Sandals: Birkenstock

A New Lease on Life

I'm not too sure how to go about talking about this, so here goes. On the night between August 5 and 6, my life changed drastically. Our beloved home was ravaged by a fire. One of my lifelong fears came true, that of being caught in a fire that broke in the middle of the night. We were sound asleep when, out of nowhere, we were both awoken by an unusual sound. I noticed light emanating from the first floor, so I got up to check. That is when I came face to face with a full blaze right outside our patio door. The deck was on fire. The house was flooded in an ominous orange glow. Seconds after discovering the flames, they broke through the glass of the door and the house was almost immediately engulfed in thick black smoke. I returned to the bedroom to grab my dogs and evacuate the place we once called home. Many people had called 911 and the firemen were on site in record time and managed to put out the fire and spare the neighbouring homes. 

We are beyond grateful to all be safe and sound. It's moments like these that put life into perspective. The only things that truly matter are not material. We often overlook or take for granted the simple things like love, health and life. In the end, those are what remain. As devastating as this ordeal is, I'm realizing the power of my inner strength. I never would have discovered that about myself had life not dealt me this hand. I was, to my own astonishment, the calm and rational one in the heat of the moment. I did eventually have my breakdown, but it was after the fact. I needed to externalize my emotions in order to move forward. I first had to live the pain and loss to then be able to deal with the aftermath. 

I definitely consider myself extremely lucky of the outcome because the situation could have been much worse. While the damage is extensive, we realize how fortunate we are compared to those who lose everything. Home is where the heart is. At the risk of sounding shallow, I must say I am sad about my specially curated wardrobe. Seeing as my bedroom, where most of my clothes were, was at the opposite end of the house from the fire, some of it will be salvageable. At this point, I have no idea how much of it will be saved. I know this is entirely meaningless, but it will take me a bit of time to detach from physical things. It's definitely a process. 

I strongly believe this experience will give me strength in ways I never imagined. I am consciously deciding to see the positive in the situation. What's done is done and I can't change the past. All I can do is move forward: life goes on! I have not given up on my blogging dreams. I will continue to blog about style. However, the scope of the blog might vary a little in the following months, until I get back on my feet. I want to show the world that you don't have to give up and give in at the first obstacle. I might have lost many material things, but I have not lost my sense of style, my wit or my positive outlook on life. No fire can destroy those because they are powered by the fire within. I ask that you bear with me while I take on this new chapter in my life. 

Mimi

Going the Distance

It's summer, it's hot, so why not dress like the muse of a Grecian god? My inspiration today was Meg, from Disney's Hercules. I've always admired her tough-girl attitude. She's a damsel, she's in distress, but she can handle it! I am also the furthest thing from a damsel in distress, I've always been able to look out for myself. Little miss independent through and through! I decided to layer two dresses today. Yes, I said two dresses. Why not? I couldn't decide I which shade of purple to wear, so I wore both. I added some Grecian-inspired accessories (i.e.: gladiator sandals, gold cuff/belt and a gold laurel headband). I feel like I nailed the look, at the risk of looking a bit costume-y. Hey, if you're going to dress up, might as well go the distance!

Dresses: Old navy | Belt: Dynamite | Earrings: Northern Reflections | Bracelet: Dynamite | Headband: Zara | Sandals: Zara

Sweet Coral Lines

This pin-striped skirt sure spins me right round! I love a good midi, and this one is fun and classic in a navy pinstripe. I decided to wear it with a bright summer hue and opted for coral. I wore a coral blouse and sandals and chose a pastel statement necklace to add an element of fun and whimsy. Pinstripes aren't reserved for serious looks, they can let loose a bit too. I like that this skirt has an attached belt. I'm particularly proud of the perfect bow I managed to tie in it too! A great skirt, a pop of colour, interesting accessories and the perfect finishing touch all contribute in making this outfit oh so sweet!

Skirt: Banana Republic | Camisole: Smart Set | Blouse: Smart Set | Earrings: Aldo Accessories | Necklace: ebay | Sandals: Bamboo

Go Bold or Go Home

Hot pink, chartreuse and turquoise: here we go! I need some bright colours to motivate me on a Tuesday morning after a long weekend. I've got to get out of this past weekend's funk. Ever get that feeling of relief after doing something that needed to get done, but had zero desire to do it? Let's just say, I'm glad it's over! Back to work I go in a cheerful outfit! It's amazing the power colour can have on one's mood. I might not have woken up peppy, but hey, fake it 'till you make it, right? I definitely made it in no time and did not have to fake it for very long!

Dress: Sandra Darren | Cardigan: Old Navy | Belt: Old Navy | Earrings: Delezhen | Sandals: Payless Shoe Source

TBT - Red Crochet

I like looking back on old outfits, it's great to see the looks I put together. Sometimes I notice patterns or similarities, other times I see how my style has evolved. Today's look had been worn for Canada Day celebrations. Ok, I realize beige is not a colour of the Canadian flag, but I decided to veer off course a little bit. I feel the combination of the beige with the red softens the boldness of the shorts. Besides, I like to stand out a little bit in a crowd, while still looking like I fit in. Not an easy feat, but I feel I did alright! ;)

Shorts: Old Navy | Top: Dynamite | Belt: Smart Set | Earrings: Smart Set | Bracelet: Pandora | Purse: Dynamite | Sandals: Old Navy

Going With the Flow

So, back in the car I go... I like weekend trips, but am always so tired at the end of them. The sky is a little gloomy today, so it's perfect weather for spending a day on the road. As I've mentioned before, I like to pack light. So I re-wore my white distressed jeans with a different top. I decided on a bright floral top with an orange camisole. Nothing to write home about, but comfortable enough for riding down the highway.

P.S. I apologize for the less than stellar outfit pics, please note they were taken after the trip...

Jeans: Old Navy | Tank: Smart Set | Top: Zara | Earrings: RW&CO | Sandals: I.N.C. International

All About That Lace

It just wouldn't be summer without attending a wedding, would it? So here we go again! As much as I like weddings, I simply do not understand why they are always during summer... The heat is a killer, and no one looks good sweating bullets, am I right? I always try to keep cool by following these simple rules. The hair goes up, no ifs, ands or butts. The best way to stay cool is by wearing your hair piled high. There is nothing I dislike more that hair sticking to a sweaty back and shoulders. Yuk! The other trick is to wear a dress that lets you breathe, in other words, something that won't cling to you. This dress is perfect for that because the tulip skirt poofs out and away from my legs. It's almost like build-in AC! Finally, I like to carry a folded fan in my clutch. I know it's very old school, ok maybe even a bit Rococo, but let me tell you, it is worth it! Plus, if you learn how to flick it open, you'll look like a pro! So there you have it, my tips for navigating a wedding the calm, cool and collected way!

Dress: Zara | Belt: Dynamite | Fascinator: La Vie en Rose | Earrings: RW&CO | Bracelet: Pandora | Clutch: Aldo | Shoes: Anne Michelle

All for One

I wore this romper for a dinner date with my partner and my mom. Once we arrived at our destination, I decided to change outfits because I got a little warm in the car and wanted something a bit more breathable. I'll admit, I was lazy and kept the same camisole, earrings and shoes I had on previously... The joys of mastering the art of packing light means I stick with a colour palette to make sure everything is interchangeable. Tricks of the trade! Rompers are great things to pack as they are literally one-piece looks. Can't go wrong with that!

Romper: Dynamite | Camisole: Smart Set | Earrings: Kendra Scott | Clutch: Aldo | Sandals: I.N.C. International