Polka Dot Pant

Just when you thought winter was on its way out we were graced with winter wrath in the form of snow and extreme temperatures. But it's funny because you could never tell by these photos, right? My mood, energy and overall levels of positivity are generally dictated by the amount of sunshine. It could be -16 and be starting to flurry but if the sun is shining I am a happy girl. I wore this outfit last weekend for brunch at Lavelle. 

Two things I love about this outfit. The high waisted polka dot pants are a nice change from classic all black and I love how they accent the chrome heeled bootie. And also the texture play between the leather perforated top and the faux fur coat. Each element really kicks up the drama but it's still casual enough for Sunday brunch for a rooftop brunch, 16 stories up, at Chez Lavelle. Even though I had to pull a fast one and remove my coat for the shots, I think it was worth it because I'm hoping it will one of the last black on black looks for a while, since spring officially kicks off this week! I could not be more excited. 

I can't wait to wear flats, frolick in the late afternoon sun, and enjoy some perfectly crisp rosé. What about you? What are you most looking forward to this spring? 

What I'm Wearing: H&M coat (similar), Haight & Ashbury Crop Top (similar), RW&CO Modern Stretch Printed Legging, Rebecca Minkoff marble MAB mini (similar), Zara silver heeled boot (similar), Celine sunglasses 

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Being Bold & My Mantra

With the coming of the new year, I am looking forward to many exciting opportunities and taking the blog to new places! There are also many intents I have for myself that relate to my day to day life, whether that be at home, in my career or in health. This post by fellow Toronto blogger Cassie Drake, An Architect Abroad, is a definite read! It really shows that we should be focusing on the whole process of achieving our newfound intents and how goal setting is sort of... well, short-sighted and leads to short-term results.  If you're in the process of goal mapping this year, you need to get over there to check it out. Totally gave me a new perspective on the whole new year's resolution idea!

I know that with all the exciting opportunities there will definitely be challenges and struggles along the way, as per every year! This year I am focusing on a new mantra. The bracelet I am wearing in this post was given to me by my mother for Christmas and I have barely taken it off since! It states "she believed she could, so she did". I absolutely love this quote! Every time I look down and see it I am constantly reminded that I am strong, powerful and capable of anything! Talk about inspirational, right?? Even though it's just a bracelet, having the words out there, on my wrist, is a powerful thing. I can look down and really reflect on the words, opposed to just hearing them in my head. After I received the bracelet I discovered MantraBand and their whole collection of inspirational pieces. There is really a special quote for everyone! 

The rest of the outfit may be simple, but it sure is bold. I am loving statement pieces lately and these Le Spec sunnies are my newest addition. First of all, can we talk about affordability?! I got them at Nordstrom and compared to similar styles they are such a steal. Gold, leopard and mirrored-- I love that they are fun, classic and totally retro. I also had been wanting to find some statement earrings and these pink bead tassels were the perfect pieces to pair with my (old, but classic) pink coat! The colours are a perfect match! The marble bag, which seems to make an appearance every winter, was truly a statement investment that I made a few years ago, but it's one that I get the most compliments on and offers to buy! It's become a timeless piece that I can't part with. I know it's sold out but I've linked some similar marble bags for you below. What do you think of pairing all the bold accessories together?

It's safe to say I am ready for a bold and bright year! How about you?

What I'm Wearing:

Le Specs sunglasses, MantraBand cuff, Wilfred Free leggings, RW & CO Mock Neck Sweater, Zara coat (similar), Cougar Boots, Rebecca Minkoff bag (similar), Francesa's earrings 

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Easy Washi Tape DIYs

I'm pretty much obsessed with washi tape. It's one of the most simple ways you can elevate any craft, project or item you have lying around the house, and you don't even need to dirty your hands or paintbrushes! It's so versatile and now there are so many fun patterns and colours to choose from that it has become a staple in my crafting corner. I love how the simplest addition of a strip of tape can really make something once boring, into a beautiful piece of art! With the Holidays quickly approaching I always get into a sort of DIY kind of mood, and this year is no exception. I had some basic wooden frames and wooden spoons lying around the house and I thought a little washi tape would certainly spruce them up and make them more fun! This DIY requires no instructions and literally takes 2 minutes. Go wild!

Materials:

Washi Tape (Walmart, Target)

Frame (IKEA)

Wooden Spoon

I'm so excited to cover more frames with washi tape. Why didn't I think of this before? They will make the cutest, budget-friendly gifts for anyone this Holiday season, don't you think? And as for the wooden spoons... a little extra care when washing is all it takes to keep the tape intact (hi, tongue twister- lol)!

Will you try any of these DIY washi tape wonders?

Check out these other frames DIYs:
Boho Frame (Urban Outfitters look-a-like)
Glam Gold Frame

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This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small commission which by no means has elevated the cost of the item. 

Tips For Going Monochrome

There is something so fresh and inviting about an all neutral outfit, don't cha think? Last weekend I took full advantage of the brief stint of spring-like weather we had and went bare legged! I love playing with different tones of neutrals to give off such an effortless, yet put together look, regardless of the season. Whenever the sun is shinning it's like I am compelled to wear lighter, or brighter tones. It just ups my mood and makes me most happy. Since this day was the first mild, sunny day in a bit of time I guess I went all out!

Although there definitely isn't a formula for going monochrome, there are a few rules I like to follow while decked out in the same colour palette. 

1. Play with the shapes. Combining a tight fitting skirt with a more loose fitting pullover really gives some definition to the outfit. Tucking in the pullover forces the waist to become the point of interest and keeps the outfit from looking like a shapeless, long garbage bag (am I right?).
2. Mix up the textures. The sweater is knit, the skirt is cotton and although both pieces are ribbed, the ribs are different widths, which is more visually appealing. The marble-esque bag also adds in another textural element and creates another point of interest. On a side note-- do you believe I almost sold this bag because I didn't think I'd wear it enough?!! Crazy, I know. SO glad I hung onto it! 
3. Combine shades. Each piece is of a different temperature, but they totally complement each other when paired together. I love going monochrome for this reason; it allows you to pull unlikely pieces together and create something beauteous! 

Add in some fun jewels and some low booties (this was a Sunday afternoon, after all) and you are ready to rock!

Do you have any rules or guidelines you like to follow when going monochrome? I'd love to hear! 

What I'm wearing:

J Crew (similar) pullover

Forever 21 skirt (similar)

Rebecca Minkoff bag (sold out)

Sam Edelman boots

Aldo cuff, Shop for Jayu ring

Shift Dress

I had ordered this shift dress for a particular occasion a while back, and when it came I knew right away it would be too short to pair with heels. I sat on it for a while and ultimately it got lost to the wrath of my closet. I recently re-discovered it, and it has since turned into one of those easy-to-throw-on, simple pieces, that was perfect for a Saturday spent wandering around Kensington Market. What sold me was the structured shape, and that the sleeves are a bit longer. This marble and blush pink bracelet I found at The Bay turned out to be the perfect piece to tie the dress and my marble bag together. Makes for an unexpected combination.  What do you think? 

Headed to Kensington Market? Pop on over to FIKA Cafe for their signature iced coffee made with cardamon bitters and mint, and sprawl out on the hammock in the garden patio. Such a creative and relaxed space. I'm still dreaming of their book wall!

{Forever 21 dress (identical), Rebecca Minkoff bag, Bracelets: Aldo, The Bay, DIY, Joe Fresh flats (identical)}

Neutrals

When you're running to catch a cab to dinner and suddenly you realize your outfit is coordinating with an architectural beauty of a building you stop and have an impromptu photoshoot. No? Just me? Can't be just me! The weather in the city has been gorgeous this past week; the sunny skies and warmer temperatures have me switching out boots for pumps and I couldn't be more excited. It's even light out past 7:30pm! I know we're heading into the "melty snow phase", but the crisp spring air is on it's way and there is nothing more crisp than a monochromatic white and beige outfit, with a hint of marble of course! 

{RW coat, Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B tote, Zara pants, Nine West pumps}

January Joy

Apparently this week was host to Blue Monday...which is allegedly the most depressing day of the year. I actually found this week to be a decent one, despite societal pressures to book vacations and give in to post holiday gloom. Yes- a lot of people are escaping the cold and are heading for the tropics, and yes- I may be a tad envious, but (!) there is plenty going on here to rave about. So, to keep up with the positivity I am sharing five moments from this week that had a lovely impact and put a smile between my frozen rosy checks. Why not take a minute to think back on this past week to recognize and appreciate what already is making you smile.

{1. I'm obsessed with this bag 2. I match the floor at Citta (which was by the way delicious)}

{The prettiest of roses; Valentine's Day prep has begun!} 

{Stocking up on these cold pressed juices from Trader Joe's in Buffalo proved itself clever as they have been helping me fight a bug all week}

{Celebrating at Colette Grand Cafe with chocolate profiteroles and champagne}

{Officially addicted to pointy toe pumps}