Pop of Peach

We really had a taste of spring weather last weekend. The sun was gleaming and the weather was so mild. It was pure bliss! If there's one thing I seem to do every year around this time is jump the gun on spring… in the best way possible. If the sun is shinning I'm going pastel-on-pastel, if it's over 5 degrees outside I'm leaving the house without my coat. I am fully ready to rid my closet of boots, hats and puffy parkas! Aren't you?!

In light of this spring preview I put opted for a pop of  my favourite coral coloured beauty products. Essie's Tart Deco and MAC's Vegas Volt proved to be the perfect peachy pair and I'm so excited to sport this combo again soon. I love how they accent against denim jeans and a multicolour coat. This coat, by the way, is pure gold! I've had it for almost two years and it hasn't lost any of it's appeal. I love that I can dress it up for work with a skirt or white dress pants, but I can also throw it over a pair of jeans and be ready for any weekend activity. It has leather detailing around the neck, fringe at the shoulders, and the colours of the pattern are great for spring.

Are you like me and are embracing spring as soon as we feel the semi-mild warmth of the sun? Or, are you holding out for some sort of winter rally?

{RW & CO jacket (old-similar), J Brand jeans, Forever 21 clutch (similar), Joe Fresh boots,  lips- MAC Vegas Volt lipstick, nails- Essie Tart Deco}

Leap into Life

With February 29th (yes, you ready that right-- the 29th) quickly approaching I am starting to feel like this is the perfect day to do something completely out of the ordinary. I mean this astronomical wonder only happens once every FOUR years. Yes, yes… we know it's because Earth takes just a liiiiiiitle bit longer to make it's orbit around the sun, but it's the perfect time to go a little wild, because really only a quarter of the day actually exists! It's kind of mysterious and since it's not due to reappear until 2020 why not take full advantage? Apparently there is a tradition that this day is one for the women to propose to a man on, and if the man declines he must buy the women a dress. I say propose and buy two dresses for yourself, anyways.

Am I loosing you here? Let's just call it a day to have a little more fun.  So, what are your plans? If you don't have any yet I put together a little list of out of the ordinary ideas for you to take part in. Live it up, girlfriend!

Drive two hours out of town and explore the town you end up in.

Cancel all your plans for a day.

Eat whatever you want without any worries. 

Wear your most fun/highest heels around the house all day.

Smile at every stranger you pass.

Host a champagne/take-out dinner. 

Go the day without your social media.

Go to the very first place that pops into your head.

Surprise your loved one somewhere.

Do something around the house-- naked.

What are your plans for this upcoming February, 29th?

Mexico Vlog

Oh, Mexico... where to begin. Spending a week in the sun, sand and sea felt so good for my soul. Sometimes you just need to to breath in that salty air and instantly feel the rejuvenating effects of waking up by the ocean. 

If you've been following along on Instagram, Facebook or Snapchat (@gabpacifico) you already know my bestie and I took off for a week to the Myan (P.S. -- sorry for the less than sophisticated snapchats ;)). We relaxed by the beach, explored the towns and all around had an amazing girls trip. A highlight of our trip was visiting the ruins at Tulum. The ruins were breathtaking and inspiring to witness, and the beach at Tulum was stunning (probably the clearest water I've ever seen)! I can't wait to get back and visit the other ruins at Coba and Chichen Itza. The beach may be great, but I love to explore the cultural and historic sites more so. I love to feel the connection with wherever I am visiting, so I'm glad we had the chance to chat with the locals, sip fresh coconut water and shop the beautiful markets (I can't wait to show you the stunning blankets I came home with!). 

You may have already seen some pictures from my latest post (Style Secrets For Fun in The Sun), but here is a fun, behind the scenes (aka much more raw!) look into our trip. It's only my second vlog, so input is always welcomed! Let me know what you think!

See my VLOG from Italy here.

Denim Hustle

How American Hustle is this outfit right now?! I originally had on a totally different pair of sunglasses when B was like "wait-- I have the perfect pair". Um, hello! Nailed it, babe! Typically I would never EVER go after a pair of round sunglasses as such, and with green tinted frames at that, but somehow I dug it. You guys know I'm more of a cat eye gal, but it was fun to wear these sunnies for a day. They definitely made me feel a little out of character, in a cool-vintage-70's-vibing sort of way. Do you guys ever do that? Borrow pieces from the men? It kinda makes you feel mysterious and up-to-no-good.

You really can't go wrong with a denim on denim ensemble. They are so effortless and easy, but when paired with blush/beige/neutral accessories, and a few textured pieces, the outfit is completely elevated. Denim, faux fur, and leopard faux calf hair-- they just come together somehow. Thoughts?? 

{LANGsura coat, Tommy Hilfiger chambray top (similar), J Brand jeans, Ray Ban sunglasses, Sam Edelman pumps, vintage bag}

Style Secrets For Fun in The Sun

Going on a tropical vacation in the midst of winter has to be one of life's greatest pleasures. There is something so invigorating about stepping on that plane and realizing you are about to embark on a voyage where the skies are clear, the air is salty and the water is beyond blue. When you add your best friend into that mix you know you're in for the time of your life. 

It was such perfect timing when Upper Canada Mall asked me to be a part of their newly revamped Style Secrets sessions, and in doing so to share my Must-Haves for Fun in the Sun. It's no secret that many people find going on vacation stressful because of the packing. The uncertainty in the weather, the suit case space struggles,  and the weight of luggage-- there are just so many variables! Not to mention the horrific question: "did I pack the right things?!". But you need to remember that this should be fun and exciting, and in no way stressful or overwhelming. That's why we are sharing the essential items in this style session, the ones you can't leave home without, the ones that do double duty and will have you set for the whole trip!

I spent one morning at Upper Canada Mall picking out my top vacation essentials. Immediately upon stepping foot in the mall, I felt at ease. I had such a blast running around, checking out the fabulous stores, picking out my favourites from shops such as Topshop, Forever 21 and American Eagle, and then shooting them for you to see! Upper Canada Mall has every store you need for all the essentials; they are upscale in a casual way that makes shopping so comfortable and fun. Check out the video for my style secrets on how to pack smart while staying chic for your next winter getaway. These tips will without doubt ensure you have the most fun in the sun! 

Since I had just come back from Mexico when we did the shoot I wanted to round up a few pictures from my trip so you can actually see how to bring these style tips to life.  It always helps to see it on someone in real life, doesn't it?

I hope you love the video! Let me know what you think. Be sure to check out the post on Upper Canada Mall's blog for some additional pictures! A HUGE thank you to Upper Canada Mall for asking me to take part in their Style Secrets video series. 

Check out below for more snaps from my bestie vacay to Mexico. You'll definitely notice these key pieces will pop up over and over again in the pictures! And ready for it... be on the lookout for a new travel VLOG coming soon!!

Marbled Pink

It's always hard to get back into a routine after being away for a week, but I have to admit, this week was kinda too good to be true! Not only did the week kick off with some fabulous events, like the Coca-Cola Taste the Feeling party, and Fancy Pufs' 1st Birthday, but the long weekend brought with it Valentine's Day and Family Day. On Sunday we took a drive to my family's place in Vineland, stopped into Dillion's Distillery for some gin tasting, and had a casual night making dinner, sipping wine and snacking on cupcakes and cookies from Kelly's. We drove back on Monday and spent the day with family, and ended the night watching some of the Grammy's.  

Since Monday finally graced us with some somewhat bearable weather (anything seems bearable when it's not -30 degrees) I left the parka at home for our outing. Black and white is always so fresh and effortless; a crisp turtleneck and pointy toe bootie really create a minimalistic vibe but in a bold way. My marble bag has been pushed aside as of late but it definitely felt fitting to bring it out with this sophisticated colour combo, and matching marble studs. I'm thinking this bag is going to make a resurgence in my wardrobe in the weeks to come. 

Can we also just take a moment to praise the pink wall? I may have had to walk a few steps off the beaten path to get close to it… but, so good, right?

Are you feeling the black and white? Or have you been embracing colour in hopes for an early spring?

{Celine sunglasses, Shop for Jayu earrings, Rebecca Minkoff bag, Kate Spade turtleneck, RW & CO coat (similar,similar , Danier Leather gloves, Michael Kors boots (on sale)}

Leopard Love Day

What are your plans for Valentine's Day? I don't have any, but am not giving up any excuse to wear some of my favourite colour combinations. Blush, red, pink, burgundy... give me it all! I love feeling girly and feminine, and why not embrace this on Valentine's Day. I opted for this burgundy and leopard outfit for a weekend outing and since there is no snow to be found I felt the urge to take out these beautiful heels. We all know I'm not letting items rot in my closet from now on!

This coat is an instant outfit enhancer. Throw it over jeans and a t-shirt, any dress (fancy or not) and you are officially ready to party. I am all about dainty chains lately, so I added this one by Foxy Originals, that actually looks like three, and my favourite vintage clutch and bam-- outfit made.

Not a fan of red or pink for Valentine's Day? Check out my blue Valentine inspired look here.

{Leopard coat, Forever 21 dress (similar, similar) , Foxy Originals necklace, Christian Louboutin heels, vintage clutch}

Cheater Chocolate Cake

With Valentine's Day fast approaching you may be on the hunt for something to bake and share with your girls, man, family, or someone special. I have the perfect recipe.  It's SO simple and takes no time to throw together, which is a complete shocker because this my friends looks like a piece of art! The cake itself is so moist, fresh and incredibly chocolately, and no one will be able to tell it's a cheater cake! So what is a cheater cake? You start with a store bought cake mix, but add different ingredients to really take the cake to the next level. I promise! It definitely wows, and since it's basically from scratch, you can totally say it is! Right?

To make the cake extra special for Valentine's Day I used this Nordic Ware Scallop Heart Budnt Cake Pan. How beautifully sculpted does it look? Kinda looks like I spent hours making a three tiered, heart-shaped chocolate mountain. All I had to do was spray the pan enough to ensure it came out perfectly. I then dusted icing sugar on top and adorned the cake with some petite roses! Parfait, non?

Get ready for chocolate heaven. Here's how it's done:

Ingredients:
1 store bought chocolate cake mix (I used Devil's Food Mix; don't follow instructions)
1 cup oil
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup water
4 eggs
1 instant pudding mix
2 cups chocolate chips

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, oil, sour cream, water, and eggs
Add the instant pudding mix last (it thickens very quickly!)
Stir in the chocolate chips and pour batter in greased bundt pan
Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top of the cake feels springy
Let cake cool in pan entirely before taking it out
Dust cake with icing sugar (if desired)

My Favourite Vintage Find

We all have that one piece that floods your mind with memories each time you wear it. It takes you back to where you were when you purchased it, who you were with and why you felt compelled to it. For me, it's this vintage clutch.

In the summer of 2011 I went to Quebec City on the Explore Program. For those of you that don’t know the program is offered to university students by the government as a way to explore another region of Canada and increase knowledge of the French language.  I didn't know when I signed up that I would have an amazing experience, make lasting friendships and immerse myself in this beautiful, historic city.

After class one day a few of us went shopping and came across a vintage store. I may not remember the street or store name but I can visualize inside the shop perfectly. I was on the hunt for a clutch to pair for a blue dress I had just purchased for an upcoming wedding. When I saw it, I knew and everyone I was with knew it was to me mine.

After a bit of haggling I was able to secure the bag as mine. Now every time I wear this bag, which is quite often because it's really the most versatile piece, I think of this amazing experience.  I love that I can dress it up, or dress it down and how neutral it is in colour. The bag has accompanied me everywhere from vacations, to special occasions and just stuck with me on the daily and although it's definitely showing signs of wear, I don't see myself parting with it.

Keep scrolling to see some of my favourite moments/outfits on the blog with my the clutch. It really does pair with anything!

And I'd love to know-- what's your favourite vintage find?