Darling Floral Romper

Give me some sunshine and a floral romper and I'm a happy girl. Pulling looks for the Spring Lemonberry shoot was far too easy! For me rompers are the perfect summer piece; they are light, effortless and chic (this one especially). If you feel comfortable in a certain style, colour scheme, or print why should you stop wearing it just because you own a fair share of it? Surround yourself with pieces that bring a smile to your face and make you feel good, and just like yourself. This romper does exactly that; I feel like the true summer girl that I am in it. This whole outfit seriously takes me back to our trip to Charleston last summer; the rompers were necessary to beat the heat, and the pastel buildings were a dime a dozen. If only I could feel that Southern sun now!  

I also love the contrast between the mint green/blue and the darker royal blue in this pairing. The blue clutch just draws out the colours in the romper so nicely! Add in a pair of lace up sandals and you have the perfect date outfit if you ask me!

Are you just itching to get into your summer wardrobe, too?! Is there a piece you can't wait to get into? 

What I'm Wearing

Darling Playsuit via Lemonberry

Shop for Jayu drop necklace via Lemonberry

Matt & Nat clutch via Lemonberry

Photos by Khamp Media

Hair by Luxe Hair Den

Make up by Victoria Bourque Beauty Boutique 

UCM x Shoebox Project & Little Luxuries

This past weekend I had the privilege of being invited to Upper Canada's Mall's Shoebox Project Event hosted by the lovely and insanely gorgeous Jessica Mulroney. The Shoebox Project for Shelters was founded in 2011 by Jessica Mulroney and her three sisters-in-law. What started as delivering 400 shoeboxes to homeless, or at-risk of homelessness women-in-need, has now turned into 25,000! It's truly an inspiring project and I immediately jumped at the opportunity to help the project in their goal of empowering women and offering women a little reminder of their worth and value in society, just in time for Mother's Day.

{Posing with Jessica Mulroney, Amara and Jackie}

Upper Canada Mall invited Jackie, Amara and myself to bring our mommas to the event and make a fun day out of it. We spent the morning decorating a -you guessed it- shoebox and filled it with items generously donated from Upper Canada Mall retailers. My mom and I loved having the chance to customize and decorate our box. It really does create more of a personal connection for the woman receiving the box, don't you think? We filled the inside with inspiring quotes that I know the woman receiving our box will smile at! The generosity of the retailers was amazing to see, not to mention all the ladies who came out to support the project and give back to the community.

{Little luxuries generously donated by Upper Canada Mall retailers}

 Afterwards we had a chance to talk to Jessica and learn more about the project. I love how the Shoebox Project for Shelters makes an effort to provide these women with, not only essential items like toothbrushes and toothpaste, but "little luxuries", that really have the power to make women feel special. They are the items that you necessarily wouldn't splurge on yourself but have the ability to brighten your mood and lift your spirits on the worst of days. This got me thinking... what are the ultimate "little luxuries" to you? I've rounded up 5 little luxuries that made their way into our shoebox. I can't wait for it to be opened and make some lovely lady's day!

What do you think of our shoebox?! Also, let me know if you agree with the list of five great little luxuries below!

1. Bath Bomb- Lush: To create the ultimate spa experience without going to the spa!

2. Handcrafted Chocolates- Purdys: A fine chocolate it such a simple pleasure, and always has the power to put a smile on my face.

3. Nailpolish- Shoppers Drug Mart: Nothing like a fresh mani to make yourself feel fabulous!

4. Lipstick- Sephora: Lipstick has the power to transform with just on swipe. A bright lip really does have mood lifting capabilities!

5. Perfume- Shoppers Drug Mart: Getting a whiff of an intoxicating new scent always makes me feel luxurious.

{Jackie from Something About That and I- match matchy much?! lol}

{my momma and our shoebox!}

Thanks to Upper Canada Mall and Jessica Mulroney for such an inspiring morning! Be sure to check out the Shoebox Project for Shelters!

MIN

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting the lovely Minling Pan of MIN Design. She is a Toronto designer who has won many fashion awards for her collection of beautifully crafted accessories that emphasize minimalism,  independence and novelty (also an acronym for her name). MIN Design has just launched their collection of Nail Polish Clutches, and with just one look at the bag it's easy to see where Minling's inspiration came from…. a great mani of course! The bags are beautifully built, and surpasses the norm in both sophistication and playfulness. 

This past weekend I brought the bag out for a night on the town and really felt the slogan come alive! The slogan is "Your head-turning moment", and that's exactly what happened to me, head's were a turnin'! I mean how it could not when your sporting such a fun statement piece. The collection boosts bright colours like true red, sky blue, lucite green and even gold, but I was drawn to the pastel perfect lilac shade. Minling definitely knows her shades, and not to mention loves a good mani! She manually matched the shades to the nail polish tones she wanted to achieve, and then painted from the inside to get that nail polish bottle feel.  How cool is that?! 

The bag is a standout piece and since I wanted to let it shine I paired it with black and white; black culottes and a black and white vertical stripe romper. Yes, you read that correctly. This "top" is actually a romper worn underneath! Gotta make best use of your closet, right? However-- it did make for unfortunate washroom situations. Since the name of the game was fun I elevated the look with my accessories. Black lace up heels, and a neck scarf. This was my first time testing out the neck scarf situation and I kinda get the craze now! This scarf, which I usually tie around a bag handle, is by Dayna Lee Collection and it's lists off a girl's favourite things in the most adorable print. Think coffee, Paris, wine, books, macarons, etc. So fun! 

What do you think of my playful accessorizing? Be sure to have your own head turning moment and check out MIN Design's collection of head turning accessories! 

What I'm Wearing

Romwe romper (similar top, romper)

Forever 21 culottes (on sale!)

Lien.do heels (similar)

℅ MIN Design clutch

℅ Dayne Lee Collection scarf

This post was sponsored by MIN Design, however all thoughts and opinions shared are my own, through and through!

Thanks to La Petite Noob for capturing these shots!

Off The Shoulder Denim

The off the shoulder trend is one I can't get enough off! Tops, dresses, bathing suits-- I want it all! This weekend's perfect spring temperatures had me finally busting out my denim off the shoulder top. I paired it with more denim, in the form of crops, for a fun, summary, boho inspired look. So denim for days, right!? I also can't wait to pair it with a pair of white denim jeans, which I believe I have finally found the perfect pair (stay tuned!). I love how carefree this top makes me feel and how it just blows in the wind. I can already tell it's going to be the perfect summer piece. 

I'm also so enthralled with this vintage necklace I picked up at the Miaou Vintage Tea Party, which I'm sure you saw all over Instagram. Miaou had curated a darling collection of home goods, vintage jewelry and even some treats (I also had to take home a tin of Rouge Provence Sloane Tea). Be sure to check out Miaou's online shop and treat yourself to something pretty!

What I'm Wearing:

Forever 21 top (similar), pants (similar), clutch (similar)

Miaou Vintage necklace

Old Navy sandals (similar)

 

Black & Beige Street Style

This weekend’s weather felt like the manifestation of spring; sunshine, warm temperatures and a beautiful blue sky (…finally). My mom and I had made appointments at Body Blitz spa for a massage and to enjoy the pools. It was our first time at Body Blitz and we were thoroughly pleased with the experience; the place was so clean and fresh, the smell of eucalyptus filled the rooms, and the massage was divvvvvine (and much needed!). But equally exciting was that before our appointments we hit up the patio at Gusto 101. Yes, you read that correctly. My first patio outing of the year and it felt great! A light coat, a pair of flats, and an essential pair of sunglasses joined forces to make up the perfect early dinner outfit accessories. 

I feel like trousers are an errand running essential, not to mention a spring staple-- so effortless, breezy and comfortable. I could run all over town in trousers and flats! Since I was breaking in these flats for the first time I definitely wasn't going to be doing any running, but once these babies are worked in you won't be able to stop me! I can already tell I’m going to be living in these pants for the next few months; paired with some pumps for the office, flats for running errands, and barefoot for lounging at home. Thinking I may also need the striped pair… 

What's your take on trousers? I feel like you either love them or hate them… 

What I’m Wearing

Banana Republic blouse (similar)

Zara trousers

Nine West flats (similar)

Rebecca Minkoff MAB tote (similar)

Trouvé Leather Jacket
Céline sunglasses

Buddha Brands Co. Giveaway

Who's ready for a giveaway?! I could not be more excited to introduce you to Buddha Brands Company and their line of delicious, rejuvenating, all around good for you drinks and snacks. If you didn't already know, the healthy properties of coconuts are mind-blowing. They are known to improve heart health, help with digestion, increase metabolism, are antibacterial (fights off fungus & yeast) and are high in dietary fibre. It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with these little magical (ridiculously hard to open— yes, I bought a whole one) fruits, or nuts, or seeds (whatever they are), in every form (oil, milk, water, flakes, etc.). Buddha Brands Company has taken one of the ultimate super foods and developed healthy, deliciously addictive and innovate snacks and beverages to balance your body from within.  They promote a lifestyle that focuses on healthy and happy living and seeking balance, which I am all for!

In addition to original coconut water, Buddha Brands Co. has developed new Thirsty Buddha Coconut Water With Aloe Vera to help you glow from the inside out. The water contains aloe vera, which has rejuvenating, healing and soothing properties, so this water is really the ultimate beauty/wellness beverage. The subtly sweet, crisp and refreshing taste is great on it’s own and in smoothies, or made into cocktails (hi there, healthy cocktails!), or my flavoured chia seed fresca (see below).

Buddha Brands Co. also offers a line of Hungry Buddha coconut chip snacks that I am equally obsessed with. The four flavours are Classic Coconut, Smokin' Sriracha, Cheeky Chocolate, and Wild Wasabi. They are the perfect on the go snack for whatever flavour you are feeling, or can be added in to dishes or as toppers to enhance your recipes. Think smoothies, salads, avo toast... the possibilities are endless! 

I took the products and added them to a few different recipes to get you thinking of exciting new ways to experience Buddha Brands Co. I added the chips to my coconut almond balls, created a refreshing chocolatey (high in protein) smoothie with the original coconut water, and created an Aloe-Mint-Lime Chia Fresca. Make all three and let me know your favourite! 

Coconut Almond Balls

Ingredients:

1 cup raw almonds

1/3 cup agave nectar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 1/2 tsp coconut oil

1/3 cup Hungry Buddha coconut chips (classic flavour) 

½ cup shredded coconut flakes (for rolling)

Directions:

1.     Place the almonds in a food processor and process until a powder like texture forms.

2.     Add the agave nectar, cinnamon, coconut oil and coconut chips and process until combined.

3.     Place the coconut flakes in a bowl. Using your hands roll the dough mixture into balls and roll balls into coconut flakes to coat. Set in fridge, and keep balls in fridge to keep fresh.

Aloe-Mint-Lime Chia Fresca

1. Place 1 tbsp of chia seeds into glass.

2. Fill glass with Thirsty Buddha Coconut Water with Aloe and stir, making sure chia seeds have not clumped at the bottom.

3. Squeeze 1/2 a lime into the glass and top with a few mint sprigs.

4. Let chia seeds soak for 20 minutes.

Chocolate Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 cup Thirsty Buddha Natural Coconut Water

¼ cup hemp hearts

½ frozen banana

1 tbsp almond butter

1 tbsp raw cacao
1 tsp cinnamon

1 date

1 tbsp chia seeds

6 ice cubes

Directions:

1.     Add all ingredients to blender and blend on high speed.

2.     Add more ice if too runny/add water if too thick

3.     Top with Hungry Buddha Cheeky Chocolate Coconut Chips.

Now that I have raved about Buddha Brands Co. I’m sure you are ready to get you hands on some of these goodies, right? Get ready to nourish, glow and rejuvenate! Did I mention also become addicted? In the best way possible! I am SO excited to partner with Buddha Brands Co. to offer you the ultimate giveaway—a month supply of coconut water, including the new flavor, and coconut chips! Be sure to enter below to win this amazing prize pack. 

Good luck!

Contest open to Canadian residents only. Contest closes at 12:00 AM on 04/25/2016.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Darling Embroidered Dress

A weeks ago, on probably the coldest day in April (it even snowed!), Eleni, Jackie, Joëlle and myself headed to Lemonberry, our favourite boutique north of the city, to partake in a spring shoot for the boutique. The shop owner, Lisa, gave us the free reign to pull our own looks and curate outfits that were just our style.  Immediately upon entering my eyes were drawn to this dress by Darling London. The pale, nude colour and subtle floral embroidery had my pastel loving heart fixated instantly! I love wearing the colour nude for spring; it's refreshing, airy and natural. The dress is a stunning piece on its own, but adding a playful element like this Shop for Jayu statement necklace really dresses up the entire outfit and makes it the perfect piece for spring and summer events. 

The handbag is another stunning piece. The perfect mini cross-body and it's made with vegan leather. Matt & Nat actually stand for "material and nature". Their emphasis of living beautifully and being socially responsible is one that I am drawn too, and I love that Lemonberry is too! 

I'm still obsessing over the pairing of these nude pieces and am just happy I got to prance around for a few hours in them! If I haven't sung Lemonberry's praises enough, you need to head over there for a unique find like this one! 

The name of the brand really says it all, this dress is just darling, isn't it?! 

What I'm Wearing

Darling Dress via Lemonberry

Matt & Nat cross-body via Lemonberry

Shop for Jayu necklace via Lemonberry

Photos by Khamp Media

Hair byLuxe Hair Den

Make up by Victoria Bourque Beauty Boutique 

Five Closet Staples

Lately I've been focusing on filling my wardrobe with closet staples. Pieces that are timeless, versatile and interchangeable with the seasons. It's hard to do when every store is filled with pretty pastel and floral dresses that never fail to catch my eye, but when you remember that these pieces can accent the more seasonal items it definitely makes it easier. I've been doing pretty well building up my wardrobe and wanted to share what I find to be five staples items that every closet needs. Let me know if you agree with these pieces and where you splurge! Or if I'm missing any.

1. White Blouse- I had been on the hunt for a soft, not too fitting white blouse for so long. I came across this boyfriend style blouse at Old Navy and it was exactly what I was looking for. I love that it has slits in the sides and can take me from work to event with no change needed. Tuck it in a skirt, wear it under a sweater with the collar popping out or simply wear it on it's on. 

2. Leather Jacket- Leather jackets are a closet splurge, but an essential. And the right one can last year you over ten years (just ask my mom). When you find one you love-- that fits like a glove, is made with breathable material, and expresses the right amount of rocker chic vibes without looking like a biker-- you know you are set. This jacket took me a few years to come by but has definitely proven valuable as I pair it with everything from lace skirts, skinny jeans, and floral dresses. 

3. Skinny Jeans- I know we all have a variety of jeans-- the boyfriend, the distressed, the high waisted-- but a dark washed pair of skinny jeans without rips is a closet staple for me. They can be worn to work on casual Fridays, be dressed up, or dressed down for any event. I recently picked these up at American Eagle when they were having a BOGO sale (along with this pair) and am so glad I decided to go with this classic style as I have found myself relying on them more and more. 

4. Black Structured Bag- Another item to splurge on to ensure quality. My Rebecca Minkoff tote takes me from morning to night, work to event, and fits a copious amount of paraphernalia that one may or may not need on the daily (here's looking at you bulk barn coupons and 2 bottles of Essie nail polish). A structured bag is timeless and essential.

5. Black Booties- Again, I had been on the hunt for a pair of black, pointy-toe boots, with just the right amount of heel height and that did not resemble cowboy boots in any way. I know it's April, and basically time to put them away, but how did I do? I loved these Zara booties instantly and am so glad to finally have found an alternate to my fatigued Sam Edelman Pettys. Booties pair with everything from pants, skirts and dresses and when you find the right pair it's like everything clicks. Am I right?

Remember-- timeless over transient and classic over momentary. Do these tips help? What are some of your closet staples? Am I missing any essentials?

Shout-out to the lovely Jackie from Something About That for braving the cold and snapping these shots. 

What I'm Wearing

Old Navy Hi-Lo Boyfriend Oxford (on sale)

J Crew necklace (similar)

Trouvé Leather Jacket

American Eagle jeans

Zara Leather High Heel Ankle Boots

Rebecca Minkoff MAB tote (similar)

Spring Beauty

Every once in a while I come across beauty products that I absolutely love. From skin care to make up I love trying new things, but when you end up picking up the same products over and over again you know it's time to share. Since it can be a tad intimidating to try out new products, especially when they are practically an investment, I'd thought I would break down some of my current favourites and hope to help you decide if they are right for you.

What: NYX Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Whipped Caviar
Why I love it: The shade of muted plum was exactly what I was looking for. It goes on so smooth and stays on for a hours without drying out the lips. This drug store find is a steal and rivals my MAC lipsticks.

What: NYX Cosmetics Wonder Pencil
Why I love it: Concealer, eye brightener, and universal lip pencil. It's a trifecta of a pencil and the perfect evening clutch essential.

What: Make Up For Ever Pro Sculpting Face Palette
Why I love it: This 4-in-1 seriously does it all; highlights, contours, illuminates and adds a dash of colour. I had been on the hunt for a face palette for a while, and this one stop, lightweight palette sold me right away. I love that it is cream based which means I can apply it using my fingers (aka I didn't need to buy a fancy brush), and that the colour is completely build-able. I purchased #20, for light tones, and am amazed at how well it blends! I may not contour everyday however I have been getting so much use out of the highlighter and shimmer creams!

What: Shu Uemura Wonder Worker 
Why I love it: This hair product is a multi-tasker since you apply on towel dried hair and leave in for either air-drying or blow drying. I don't always want to blow dry my hair so I love that it styles and finishes my hair without the need of a blow dryer.  It leaves my hair so silky and soft, bonus- it smells divine!

What: Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil Shampoo
Why I love it: It's paraben and silicone free and doesn't strip the hair of necessary, natural oils. It leaves my hair super soft and the smells so light and fresh.

Have you tried any of these? I'd love to hear your experience.