A Winter GetAway

I’m very excited to report that I’m finally on vacation. Where I’m my going? Well I’m glad you asked. I’m going up past hundred mile to a beautiful little place called Ruth Lake where we stay in a cozy red cabin on a lake. Which actually happens to be frozen solid so there will be lots of ice skating and ice fishing. I know I know it doesn’t sound like something I would do but it’s so beautiful up there and I finally get a chance to relax it’s completely worth it. So today’s post is going to be about what I’ll be bringing on my little getaway. And yes I did end up purchasing clothes that really no one is going to see up there, but when I look good I feel good. When I think about packing for this mini vacation I think layers, items that are easy to wear and are warm and comfortable.

The items in the picture above are mostly from Banana Republic, Club Monaco and Wanted

Bad To The Bone

I was inspired by the editorial done by Elle magazine done on Jessica Biel to write this post about the always sexy material leather. This season it’s all about taking leather to a new edgy level but still keeping it on the side of elegance. Leather from head to toe is a complete No-no but having one or two great pieces as a focal point is completely fine. Like always, I like something with some studding like a great shoe or bag. These items are safety pieces, you can wear them with any outfit but it’s still safe enough to last for multiple seasons and that’s what you want in the end more bang for your buck.

 PS. Totally hearting the Cream and Black leather bracelet by Mani. Retails for $130

Mixing It Up

 It really surprises me that people think you can't mix metals. I mean where’s the fun in that, And to set the record straight you can mix gold, silver and any other metal. Mixing metal will give you that effortless look every outfit should embody. The key is to us metals similar in tone for example Indian gold doesn't work with silver but it looks amazing with bronze. I love bangles in multiple metals I have a set that I literally wear every day. I like to look for ones with ornate designs or brushed metal to add a little style.

Above: Bangles: Cara Accessories $58, Layered Necklace: Maria Zureta, Bracelet: Jana Connor $70, Ring: Losselliani $185 and Earrings Nicky Hilton $45

The Finishing Touch

The finishing touch is crucial to any ensemble. But finding the perfect little cocktail bag to go with your holiday dress can either make or break an outfit. Instead of choosing some little old black clutch go for something with some hardware, make a real statement. This season it’s all about chains, embossed leather and beading. I love the little ombre clutch below by Nina $ 132.00 it something I can see myself using it year round.

Tip:

 If you’re looking for a great clutch or small bag check out vintage or thrift stores. It unbelievable what treasures people throw away and usually you can get them on the cheap.  

P.S: Sitting in starbucks because I HAVE NO INTERNET at home L

Its All About The Shoes

So for most outfits its all about the shoes and because I'm feeling festive, I have chosen some of my favorite shoes that will go with any holiday cocktail dress. This year I'm loving the idea of wearing a little back cocktail dress and rocking it with a pair of black opaque tights and booties. There something so understated about it and when you wear monochromatic you can go wild with any accessories (Note Monochromatic only looks chic in Black).

The look you’re going for is effortless and that you didn't spend three hours getting ready. Holiday is also the time to bring out the bling and why not, it’s really the only time of year that people go all out anymore. So choose a shoe with some excitement like studding or a jeweled buckle. Women always notice shoes so why don't be the envy of the room.<3

A Holiday Cocktail

Christmas is just around the corner and so are holiday parties. This is my favorite time of year because it gives you the chance to really dress up and wear thing you wouldn't wear on a regular basis.  Personally I prefer the cocktail dresses over any other length because of the versatility factor and I like to show my legs. With any cocktail dress in a neutral colour or tone can be worn again. All you need to do is change up the accessories to create a completely different look. My pick for the holiday season it the BCBG Draped front satin dress. This dress is genius because you’re able to wear out for a fabulous Christmas bash or rock it a work.  Also holiday dresses can run on the pricey side so why not pick something you can wear again.

Also Check out CrushCosmetics at www.crushcosmetics.blogspot.com

Join and get free samples of Crush Mica Shadows

The Price is Right

What a day!  I guess I don’t have to tell you that today was black Friday and one of the most hectic Shopping days of the year. And yours truly was of course scheduled to work and work the sale floor.  What a GONG SHOW! And to be totally honest I only thought Black Friday was an American thing but No... People in Canada go Wild for it. But anyways it turned out to be a very productive sales day and I was Queen of the sales floor. But that’s not the reason I'm writing this entry. While on my break I decide I wanted Sushi. So I walked to the other side of the earth and while waiting for my Salmon roll I decide to look for some Christmas presents in The Bay. Big Mistake!!! I didn't end up finding anything for anyone but myself. And the sale was insane, Up to 50$% off. So like always I found a dress that I could not live without. I mean I saw myself meeting my future husband in this dress. So clearly I had to buy it. The Dress is by Rachel Roy and regular price at $150. I found it on the sales rack at marked as $74 and got for an extra 30% off!!!!

This dress is gorgeous on and the colour a moss green it stunning. When you first look at the dress you think it is a wrap dress but it isn’t. It’s a fake. Only the top is, so you don’t have to worry about your dress coming undone or slit being too high. It really is an effortless dress and can be worn all year round.<3

Waking up your Wardrobe

There are five things that every fashionable girl needs in her closet to wake up her wardrobe for fall.

1. Add colour in accessories and bold hue separates. Choose a cardigan in a rich red or Burn orange.

2. Add some sparkle. Everyone knows I love a little sparkle to any outfit but this season I'm loving anything with sequins or in a metallic.

3. Lace: Lace is a huge statement this season. Choose a piece in a neutral tone and that doesn't show too much skin.  Love the lace skirt above

4. Add a print to the mix. Now the biggest question about print is can you mix them. AND THE ANSWER IS YES. But there is a simple rule you need to fallow when mixing prints. Just remember that one print is the focus and then other is the anchor. The anchor is always the smaller print in a neural tone for example a pant or skirt.

5. Every girl needs leather. Like a fabulous jacket or Booties. My pick is a Booties, A great pair of shoes can take any outfit to a whole another level.  The ones above are from Nine West and I love the little gold accent at the heel.

Holiday shopping

I can't believe that it almost Christmas. November is just flying by and I need to buckle down and get my Christmas shopping going. Every year I do the same thing and end up doing all my shopping two day before Christmas. But I have to say I'm quite pleased with myself because I have already purchased my mother’s gift. Unfortunately I can't tell you because I know she reads this blog lol. Anyways I wanted to share with you some great Christmas gifting ideas. This season I'm loving cashmere wraps, a piece like this would be pure heaven for someone to open up on Christmas day. Choose one in a bond colour like a Cobalt blue or royal purple. Leather gloves are always a practical gift but choose something with ruffles or some studding for added flare. The gloves below are leather and leopard print from Banana Republic and let me just say hot! Also I love picking out jewellery for close girlfriends. It’s nice to have memories attached to great pieces and having stories behind them. Well I hope you got to shopping ideas or some ideas to work in to your wardrobe this winter.

BadCrush Rocking Winter this year?

Boots Made For Walking

So today I wanted to share with you these fabulous boots I just purchased from Aldo. Not only are they aviator-Chic but they are one of the most comfortable pairs of heeled boots I have ever had. I completely heart them<3. These boots go by the name Anglada and only retail for $130. (Worth every penny) The warm fleece and the contrasting stitching are a real focal point for any simple outfit. I really can't stress the fact that these are comfy!!! With only a three inch heel, these boots were made for walking!

P.S these shoes are totally bad-ass with a leather jacket!

In The Trenches

It’s about time for every girl this season to go and pull out her trusty rain coat. But rather than pulling out a Nike windbreaker perhaps choose something a little sleeker and go for a fashion classic, the trench coat. The Trench coat, designed all the way back in the 1840's has become one of fashions most coveted item. This season make a statement and go for embellishments, like studding maybe gold buttons or choose a colour in a jewel tone like a royal purple or emerald. If you’re interested in something on the safer side go for something classic but in a cropped style. Below I have picked some of my favorites.

 Burberry: Classic cropped trench, Ssense: Dover trench and Jcrew: Townhouse trench.

Remember to check out my new blog about natural makeup at www.crushcosmetics.blogspot.com

My Heart On My Wrist

I've talked a lot about a great statement piece of jewellery and luckily mine happens to be close to my heat a beautiful bangle from my great grandmother. I got this bangle when I was 14, just after she died. At the time I didn't think it was anything special but as the years passed it has become something truly special and something I hold very dear. The best part is it’s made from brass so as time goes by it looks better and better. When looking for statement bangles or a cuff look for something in an original metal. When I say original metal I'm talking about something that isn't plated. You have to be careful because plated jewellery will fade and discolour over time.  Also when looking for a great piece choose something with embellishment carved flowers or set  in gems are always a good choice.

Tips

If you end up purchasing a piece with plated metal here some tips to keep it looking new.

 1. Don't wear in the shower or in any water
 2. Don't sleep with the piece
3. Wipe down the after wearing the oil from our bodies also causes items to discolor or fade.

 I'm so excited to share with you that CrushCosmetics is up and running so please check it out and follow. Check it out at www.crushcosmetics.blogspot.com.

Coming soon CrushLifeStyle

Frill Seeker

This fall is all about the feminine touch and there’s nothing more stunning then lace. I have chosen some of my favorite blouses that are able to take you for day to night. Personally lace is one of my favorite trends this season because it’s so versatile and sexy and a little exposed skin never hurt anyone. I love the lace crop top by Joie Fanny it’s beautiful scalloped neck and half gathered sleeves are elegant and edgy (on the end). Pair them up with wide leg denim or a high wasted pencil skirt and it scream chic.

BadCrush Giveaway ends October 31st.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE<3

Trend Watch: Running Wilded

Today I'm writing about a pair of fabulous leopard print flats that I just purchased by Roberto Vianni (below). I love these flats because went I wear them with a simple sweater and dark blue denim they take a plain outfit and adds style and a little edge. Animal print is coming back in full force this season and is a must have in shoes, belts and bags. Quite a few retailers this fall as showcasing animal print accessories and are selling out. I had to go to four different stores to find a pair of animal print flats in my size. I was going to have a pair one way or the other. Listed below are a few tips on how to rock the animal print this season.

Tip

1. Though it’s in style to wear animal print don't go overboard with it. Having one piece in an outfit is trending more than that you look tacky.

2. Don’t mix you prints. Having leopard print shoes and a Zebra belt is a no no.

3. Animal print can be worn at any age.

4. If you’re unsure start off with something small like a scarf or a headband.

5. Go for texture like the shoes I bought are made from faux horse hair.

Shoes were purchase from sterling shoes.

Going Nude!

The best advice I ever had was that if you didn't know what colour heels to wear, it was always best to choose a nude or a metallic. That was from my first boss at my first real job. Personally I'm a big fan of Nude. They always seem to go with what you’re wearing and always work. Also there’s something about nude or blush heels that screams sexy and they makes your legs look longer witch is a plus. In the pic below I have chosen my favorite pumps. I absolutely adore the Sam Edelman pumps with the Bow. Can you say HOTT! Work them with a little cocktail dress or a pair of skinny jeans and a leather jacket.

<3K

BadCrush Giveaway Ends October 31 so remember to comment and follow

Skirt Chaser

There’s nothing chicer then wearing a skirt this season. Skirts are the perfect middle ground for any occasion. If you don't know what to wear to an interview or a dinner out a skirt and a pair of opaque tight are pretty much your safest bet. This season I'm loving the mini, But not skin tight. Having a little bounce to your skirts lets you hide imperfections and gives you the option of tuck in a bulkier top. My last purchase was actual the Wool cross over Lace skirt by Jessica Simpson $84 but got on sale for only $44 at The Bay. I was so happy! I also heart the BB Dakota Skirt on the far right. The sheerness at the bottom of the skirt is super sexy and only retails for $52. K<3

Also remember the October BadCrush giveaway ends October 31st. And all you need to do to win is bring a friend to become a follower and leave a comment!

The Attack Of the Birkin

I don't know if it’s just me, but it looks like there’s a major celebrity craze for the Hermes Birkin bag. Personally I think the bag is beautiful but it’s not my style and definitely out of my price range. Stars such as Kim Kardashain, Victoria Beckham and Eva Longoria have all been spotted carrying this high priced item. The Orange Birkin features below cost alone over $16,000 and only go up in price the older it is. Now the other bags I have featured are Birkin look a likes, the one on the left is by Pierotucci and can be found online and retails for about $245. On the opposite side I have a bag from Aldo and only retains for $48.  Regardless of the latest trend if you can’t afford the real one you can always find something similar. Note this doesn’t mean go buy a fake!

What do you think of the Birkin bag? Comment and let me know.

Head Turner

You know when you get up for work the next morning after a fantastic night out on the town, and you didn't want to wake up so you pressed snooze six times and now there’s no time for a shower. Well that’s me on a regular bases and the answer is a headband. Personally I'm not a huge fan of the hat at work but the headband or head pieces is the perfect answer to cover up yesterday’s hair. This season I'm loving the chunky knitted headband by Kit & Pearl. Totally chic!

Side Note:

So it’s October in Vancouver and getting very chilly outside. Now I know everyone who reads this blog knows without saying that sock and sandals are a major fashion NO, NO and the number ONE fashion faux pas! But on the sales floor TODAY I notice this young man who could not have been more than twenty-one in WHITE SOCKS AND ORANGE FLIP FLOPS!!! - Yuck!

Ring Leader

One of my favorite things in fashion would have to be jewellery and on that subject I adore statement rings. It’s just that they are the perfect accessories to any outfit and there’s so many to choose from. Also it doesn’t matter how large or small they are they are always in fashion.  Now the rings I'm showing below are all under $50 and all can be found on www.Styleshop.com. Personally I don’t like spending a lot of money on rings because I like to buy so many of them and if I lose one of them it’s not the end of the world. When buying an oversized ring look for something unexpected or something with a pop of colour. You want your piece to stand out.

BadCrush giveaway will end October 31.

And if you would like to purchase something from CrushJewels on www.Etsy.com use discount code: Badcrush20 and receive 20% off your purchase for the month of October.

<3K

October's Giveaway

So for October’s BadCrush giveaway, I'm giving a stunning brass antiqued Victorian bracelet from CrushJewles. The focal point of the piece is a large antiqued brass Victorian ornate stamping which has been carefully altered to fit the curve of any wrist. The stamping is accented with vintage glass taupe pearls, 2 Czech glass bellfowers and an vintage antiqued Fleur de lis. This bracelet measures approximately 7 1/2" and closes with an antique brass lobster clasp. I love this piece because of the taupe pearls it gives that old world feel. A true statement pieces for this fall.

 If you’re interested in winning the Stamping Bracelet all you need to do is become a follower and if you’re already a follower invite a friend to join.

The Sparklies

This season I'm totally loving sparkles and not just in accessories but in sweaters, tops and dresses. It seems like a lot of store are featuring sequin tops and infused fabrics with some sort of sparkle to them. I love that embellished pieces like this can be worn at anytime like at work there's nothing wrong with rocking a sequin skinny belt with a pair of dress pants and a nice blouse. Come on have some personality right? Or pair up a sequin tunic with a pair of skinny's and have a night out on the town with some girlfriends. 

Tomorrow I will be announcing my next BadCrush giveaway! so stay tuned!

Burning In Orange

I know in previous posts I have mentioned that I was hopping that fall would come sooner. Well now I’m regretting my decision, it absolutely freezing out. But enough about regrets and talk some great key pieces that are making their way in to stores. This season I'm loving a chunkier sweater for women loose in fit and with a fabulous cowl neck like the one featured below in the burnt orange. The knit sweater is by Sanctuary and retails for $150.

When wearing a piece that is over sized like this you want to have minimal accessories. Choose something you love like a statement bracelet or a great leather bag. In a great outfit there’s one thing you want to show case. Having accessories that compete with each other only makes you look like your trying too hard. Also with a thicker sweater it’s a good choice to go with a slimmer bottom like a skinny jean or a pencil skirt.

Tip

When shopping for a chunkier sweater it good for it to be a looser fit, but remember you still want to show your shape. Then last thing you want to look like is a frumpy mess. Or vice versa a sausage.

What's above

Sweater: Sanctuary $150 Boots: Frye Meranda Slouch $268, Bracelet: Tinley Filigree $24, Jeans: DL1961 Naomi, Bag: Lucky Brand Abbey Road $178

September's Winner

Congratulations to LILI My very first BadCrush winner!!! She won the vintage topaz earrings from CrushJewels.

Lili isn't just a follower but she's also a very talented blogger and writes about celebrity fashion and trends.

Seeing Green

While shopping with a good girlfriend on Main Street in Vancouver she led me to this fantastic little store call “The Lip Lounge”. The store is to die for with only a few sizes in each piece so you feel like you’re getting a one of a kind. Not only was the store filled with fashionable pieces but the sales girl was really great, walking us through the store and showing us her favorite pieces. While looking around I found this lovely little top by Gentle Fawn in a forest green. I love this top because it’s not only a looser style but the side panels are sheer giving the top dimension and a sexy edge. I got this top only for $59 and have completely fallen in love with. Though the store is small it is full on trendy pieces that affordable “The Lip Lounge” is Located on 3628 main street In Vancouver. K<3

Only one more day until my first BadCrush give away end!!! All you have to do is become a follower and you will have a chance to win the vintage topaz earrings from CrushJewels

GOOD LUCK

The MUST Have

Every girl needs a go to pieces. I’m talking about a pieces that without fail you can throw on and instantly look pulled together. I'm talking about the Blazer, In the Last 20 years the women’s blazer has change drastically from a wide shoulder mess to a tailored and sleek MUST have. Not only has the silhouette changed but also the way you wear it. Throw it on with a white tee and a pair skinny’s and you have the perfect casual look it’s about simple elegances. Style should be effortless or at least look it.

Looking for the right blazer!

1. Look for a blazer in Lightweight wool or in cotton so they can be worn all year long.

2. The length of the blazer is all about your preference. Just remember when wearing a skirt you blazer need to be shorter.
3. Look for a pieces with sleek embellishments like a double trim collar or brass or metal buttons. Things that add character but will go with anything.

Adding the finishing touch!

1. If you’re wearing your blazer casually turn up the sleeves to show the inside lining. It’s about details.

2. Glam-It up with a statement necklace or earrings. Choose one or the other.

3. Add a killer bag and some cute shoes.

Only Three More Days

Okay so my first BadCrush give away will be a pair of Vintage Estate Honey Topaz Earrings below from Crush Jewels. http://www.etsy.com/listing/41467842/vintage-estate-honey-topaz-earrings All you guys need to do is become a follower. Contest ends  in only THREE days!!!! I just want to say thank you to everyone has become a follower I really appreciate it.

 

 

EARRINGS DESIGNED BY CRUSHJEWELS

The Cardi

So every girl has her own opinion about what the perfect cardigan is. Currently I'm crushing over the oversize male inspired V-neck cardigan. The lovely cardi featured is from Theory and is made of Mohair and extra fine merino wool. Now this cardigan is just a touch on the expensive side but I did find something similar in the men’s section of The Bay By Moon and retails for much less. Now when looking for the perfect cardigan, have a clear picture of what you’re looking for in your head. It’s easy to settle for something that isn't anything but perfect. Also spending those extra dollars on a natural fiber is also going extend the life your piece and in the end it’s worth the bucks.

I was inspired to write this entry about finding your perfect cardigan and keeping it perfect from a customer at work. She said that a cardigan pills because it’s bad quality. Well let me just tell you all cardigans, Sweaters, and anything that is made from a fiber that is a knit will pill. It’s all about the way you take care of them. 

Here are a couple of easy tips to keep you knits looking perfect longer.

1. Your best practice is to wash the item before you wear it. It calms the fibers and creates a barrier. Always hand wash but if you really don’t want to always use the delicate setting on the machine. Use little soap.

2 Don't ever hang sweaters and cardigans it cases them to stretch out.

3. It’s all about the fit. Most of the time a sweater or cardigan pills because the piece is too big. So before you purchase make sure you try on array of sizes.

4. Remove pills from your sweaters regularly to keep them looking presentable. Pilling is caused by rubbing during wear and is more apparent around the elbows, under the armpits and on sleeves but can occur anywhere on the sweater. Purchase a hand-held depillar or a small electric shaver made for depilling. A sweater shaver is your friend.

Going Vintage

I don't know how many times I have walked in to a shop like Value Village and have found a treasure. Not only finding a piece that no one will have, But a treasure with a story behind it. In this day and age we are in a society that troughs everything away and like the saying goes someone else trash is another's treasure. But not very vintage piece are created equal. When you’re going vintage there are a few things you need to know before making that purchase.

* When buying vintage ask yourself does this piece look modern? Will I be able to wear this again? Will it be a staple I will have for years?

* Check the items condition. Check all seams, Armpits and material for stains and imperfections. Also Check if anything of the embellishments are missing and if your able to fix them.

* Labels aren't always good. A vintage piece needs to be good in design not just because it’s Gucci.

            * Ask a girlfriend for their opinion. Note people lie so bring someone you trust.

* Just because it trendy doesn't mean it’s going to look good on you. Going vintage is to find items you’re going to love for a life time. 

So next time you’re at grandmother’s house take a peek at her accessories. You’re bound to find something very special.

K<3

Romance With An Edge

So I'm really excited to share with you that my first give away ends in the next week. For the month of September I'm giving away a pair of stunning vintage honey topaz earrings From an amazing designer on Etsy. Anyways  I just wanted to share with you a little about the designer Kym not only is she a gifted artist but I'm also proud to call her my mother. Kym or shall I say Mum has been in the the business of designing jewelery for a little over fourteen years and is currently responsible for three different Etsy stores such as CrushJewels. She has also owned two very successful high end boutiques and has been featured in "style at home" and "Canadian house and home". Not to mention also appeared on the TV show The Shopping Bag.  She Specializes in hand crafted pieces made from vintage stones and findings. Not only are her pieces romantic and vintage but they have a underline of that Gothic edge so there really is something for everyone. 

Okay so my first BadCrush give away will be the Vintage Estate Honey Topaz Earrings on the right from Crush Jewels. http://www.etsy.com/listing/41467842/vintage-estate-honey-topaz-earrings  All you guys need to do is become a follower. Contest end September 30^th

Getting Heeled

One of the largest trends for this fall is the heeled loafer. Personally when I started to see this trend unfold I wasn't too fond of the flat version but in heels there ultra chic. My favorite part about this trend is that there are so many different styles from old school chic to art-deco. Not only is this look versatile but it also appropriate for any occasion. Pair them put with a pair of wool trouser or a pleated skirt with a leather jacket and your set. 

STYLING TIPS

look for a loafer with a heel that isn't to skinny. Not only is a thicker heel more comfortable but the idea of wearing a heeled loafer is to have that heavier look.

Always choose leather. Leather always looks good and against other materials it last a lot longer and looks expensive.

K<3

The Test Of Time

I just wanted to share with you one of my favorite accessories that I bought earlier this year. Its my Marc By Marc Jacobs stainless steal watch. Not only is it a thing of pure beauty but its the one pieces that I can't go one day with out wearing. And no joke it goes with everything. The best part about this watch is that the band is wrapped in black silicon so it not only gives the watch character but it protects itself from scratches. Also on the outside rim of the watch its got these really edgy stainless steal studs and only costs $180.

 Aside from that I wanted to give you a couple of things to look for while your shopping for a great watch. Look for a piece that comes in a neutral colour for example Black, gold, silver or ceramic. Also choose a watch with a plain face, if you want something with a design go with simple. You want something that is going to stand the test of time (LOL) not something that isn't going to work with next years falls trends. Also tip stay away from leather or cloth bands they tend to wear out fast and need to be replaced. K<3

At Home Hair Care

 

This season is all about hair with volume and I'm a huge fan of the curling iron and I mean huge I use it everyday. And quick tip if you want the best curls use your hair straightener the curls come out perfect and you dont need to use and hair spray and there guaranteed to last all night long. Anyways this entry is about at home hair treatments that are going to keep your hair healthy and keep dollars in your pocket. 

1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Add three tablespoons to three cups of water and run through hair and wash. This is a great way to add shine to your hair and rinse away residue from daily usage of products.

2. Avocado: Mash one ripe avocado, two teaspoons of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of almond oil. Rinse and wash out after 20 minutes. This mask is a great way to hydrate your locks. 

3. Mayonnaise: I know this sounds very unappealing but it works. Add about half a cup to hair and let sit for 20 minutes. Tip use a shower cap. also for best result make you mayonnaise from scratch. 

4.Olive Oil: Warm up a quarter of a cup of olive oil and a hand full of rosemary and use as a hot oil treatment. 

5. Shea Butter: Warm up in your hands and run through your hair. This is my all time favorite way to mend split ends and it leaves an amazing shine. 

6. Brush you hair often it draws the natural oils from your hand and make you hair shinny and strong. 

My Last Purchase

So it’s officially fall in Vancouver and of course this week is paydayJ. So like a true shopaholic I had to go out and get a new fall jacket and ended up finding this gorgeous little military inspired jacket from Banana Republic. Now in the online description of the jacket it says it a bunker green with it isn't it this beautiful chocolate brown with gold snaps and I just adore it. The jacket is Nylon, Polyester and Cotton making it 100% washable which is good for me because I’m a spiller and retails $185 but if you buy it in the states its only $150. Yikes what a price difference! Anyways just wanted to share with you my excitement about my new purchase<3K

Tips For Effortless Style On You Day Off

A day off is when you think about comfort, yet again comfort doesn't mean wear sweat pants with holes in them and a t-shirts with oil stains. A day off from work doesn't mean you have the day off from style. And no matter how much you want to wear a tracksuit they're meant to be worn at the gym or around the house not out for dinner with your girlfriends.

When shopping for weekend clothing its essential that everything you buy is something you’re going to wear, that you’re going to love and you will wear it. Look for pieces in jersey or in a cotton blends, these fabric are wrinkle resident and save you time with not having to iron or steam them.  

Weekend staples:

1.       Well fitted or over sized cardigan. Choose something in a neutral colour for more versatility.

2.       A pair for dark wash denim. Doesn't matter what fit they are as long as you look great in them and they keep their shape all day. Note stay away from denim with holes the key is to look polished.

3.       White or neutral coloured top. Preferably in a Jersey, look for a top that flows.

4.       A cotton dress. A wrap dress is universal  and can be worn anytime but this season I loving cotton floral mini’s

5.       Skinny belt. Try metallic or braided leather.

6.       Cute flats with small embellishments.

7.       Brown leather tote.

8.       Your favorite accessories.

A True Statement

So I haven’t really talked about Jewelry on my blog, but it is a true passion of mine.  I try and choose pieces with a story behind them and tend to like more of the vintage feel. I love gold and brass because of my complexion it tends to stand out better on my skin. Recently while surfing the pages of Etsy I found this amazing little store called Tinged from Calgary Alberta. She specializes in handcrafted vintage jewelry of odds and ends. The piece that caught my eye was the Gypsy Heart statement necklace. Made from a myriad of charms, buttons, coins and shells and only retails for $90. If your looking for a piece that will start conversation then this is the neclaless for you.  Pair it up with a LBD (Little Black Dress) and  strappy sandals and your good to go.

If you would like to check out Tinged go to:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/53556863/gypsy-heart

Four Soles You Need To Have.

Okay so today we’re talking about shoes and what every girl needs in her closet as the bare basics. Now I know my male friends reading this blog are going to say my girl has more than four pairs of shoes. But all I’m saying that these four Shoes are what essential to every closet.

1.       Ballerina Flat:  They go with every out fit and they work for both day and night. Look a plain pair in a patent leather and if you want an embellishment the smaller the better. You want them to go with everything.

2.       Strappy Sandals: Choose them in your favorite Metallic. Gold, bronze and silver go with every colour you could possibly wear.

3.       Plain leather knee high boots: There a winter must, wear with tights and skirt and a cute sweater and you have the perfect winter look. My choice would have to be rich brown or cognac leather this season.

4.       Black pumps: The higher the better.

Five Fall Trends To Watch

While looking through the pages of September’s magazines I noticed a few trends to watch out for this season.

I.                ANIMAL PRINT: Look for bags in either python or leopard. My choice would be something small like a clutch.  Neutral-toned accessories are a classic way to tame the exotic edge of this look. But if you’re feeling bold try a colour like Navy blue or Emerald.

II.              JEWEL TONES: For fall it’s all about colour. Look for pieces with saturated colour. Ex. Amber, Teal, Crimson, Saffron and Cobalt Blue.  

III.            PRINTED PIECES: Polka dots, Forals, and prints are a must. Note if you’re wearing a print let it be your focus pair it up with something neutral or with opaque tights.

IV.           EMBELLISHED: Go for the feeling of opulence Beaded, Lace or sequins tops are my favorites. Pair with high wasted wool pants or a  silk shirt.

V.             MENS WEAR: Go for the look of Androgyny. The key is to find well tailor pieces that still show your shape. Look for a blazer in a slim cut in a houndstooth or herringbone.

Wish List for Fall

This is going to sound completely crazy, especially being in Vancouver and summer just arriving two weeks ago. But I'm ready for colder weather. I know, I know it’s crazy but it must have something to do with working in retail and already having fall merchandise in the store. But I want to wear thick cashmere scarfs, wool military style coats and leather boots. Doesn't sound it sound nice, is that too much to ask for? Always this season I have fallen love with Andrew Marc Jackets and Milla its gorgeous (shown in Andrew Marc AD campaign).The curved tulip hem is a playful take on men’s formal wear. Fun, funky, flirty, and forever.  I'm not going to tell you how much it retails for because when I saw the price I almost choked on my tongue.  But it is truly a beautiful price to have in your closet or have something look like that in your closet anyways. lol

                                           - K (Hoping for rain)

Pumping Up The Volume

So today at work the subject of mascara came up and someone asked me what brand I like to use.  Ever since Sephora came to my neck of the woods I have been obsessed with finding the mascara that isn’t too wet or the brush isn’t the weird plastic kind. I have tried all the high end, high priced mascara but I always come right back to the l’Oreal Paris Voluminous in black. Only $10 bucks! Then  i decided to poll the girls at work to see what they use and you know what, they all use drug store brands. Who said beauty comes at a cost.

Tips of getting the a fuller look with your favourite mascara

1.       Mascara is like a toothbrush: you should replace it every three months. This ensures optimal performance and cuts the risk of infection caused by bacteria build up.

2.       A thick, dense brush is ideal for both light and thicker application. Make sure the brush has no clumps on the end or in the bristles.

3.       To create the look of extra long lashes, try using an eyelash curler.  Align the tool with your lashes and hold for five to ten seconds. Then apply one or two light coats of mascara to extend lashes to their maximum length

 And if you looking for a great false lash brand try Shu Uemura.

Okay so my first BadCrush give away will be the Vintage Estate Honey Topaz Earrings on the right from Crush Jewels. http://www.etsy.com/listing/41467842/vintage-estate-honey-topaz-earrings  All you guys need to do is become a follower. Contest end September 30^th