How To Let it Out

We've all been there. Sitting with a nervous, anxious feeling in your gut. Uncertain, worried, or even scared. So what do we do with these feelings? Bottling them up most definitely isn't productive because they always seem to come back with a vengeance. They seep into other aspects of your life and before you know it you have no control over where the anger, resentment or confusion is coming from and you lash out. Am I totally alone in this? I can't be... Getting dark? I promise there's a silver lining!

Sometimes these feelings get really strong and we need an outlet. A way to relieve the feelings in a safe way that is sure to not blow up in our faces. But how? I'm sure we all have our vices or ways to relieve the stress, but there are a few that I find particularly helpful. These are 4 to be exact. If one doesn't work out I just move on to the next and hope for the best. I wanted to share them in the case that you may need to call on them someday. Most importantly we need to remember that it's okay to have these moments. They are not moments of weakness. They are making us stronger with each passing moment. We can get through them and we will. What works for you? Are you hoarding any tiny miracle workers? I want to know!

1. Talk it out. You may find ease in speaking to others about what's going on, especially if it's concerning or involving them in any way. Even if it doesn't concern them at all just chatting it out with someone can help loads. It can help you feel at ease and find an alternate perspective. It can also get you away from your ruminating thoughts. You know the ones... They spiral and lead you down a miserable hole of darkness! Gotta get out of it! Surround yourself with positive people and the positivity will spread! Sometimes I find opening up to people I normally wouldn't to be extremely helpful. People are a lot kinder than you may think, sometimes we need to have more faith in trusting others.



2. Talk to yourself. Did talking it out with someone work for you? If you couldn't do it or found it too difficult you can always talk to yourself. You guys know how therapeutic I find journalling. You can rant and rant and no one needs to hear your thoughts. It is just for you. Be as vulnerable, raw and real as you can. Let your inner feelings out and give them a space to stay, that is separate from you. It may feel weird at first but it gets so much easier. I recently started journaling every morning and found it to be healing and self-soothing. You don't need to do it every day, just keep this tool in your box for whenever you need to get something out.

3. Take a moment.  Think about why you are feeling this way and what may have caused these feelings. There is usually an underlying issue you may be avoiding dealing with. But really take a moment and find out where you feel it in your body. Is it in your throat? Does it feel like it's closing? Is it in your heart? Does it feel like it's sinking? Try and breath through the feeling and talk to it. Recognize that it's there and sooth it.  Talk it out and tell the feeling you are safe, you are okay, and you will get through it. Talking to the feelings can be calming, soothing and can actually help in the moment!

4. Tap into your creativity. What do you love to do? Is it blogging, painting, drawing, colouring, ax throwing? Find it and do it, even if it is ridiculous. Even if you don't know what it could be, try out as many things as you can until one works. Try tapping into your emotions while doing these things. Colouring and painting are all calming and therapeutic! Sometimes I find I can get lost in different crafts and activities and the anxious feelings calm down and lessen in strength.

Learning to identify and express emotions can be so hard. But you will definitely feel a stronger sense of self if you can manage to get a little bit of it out and understand what's causing the reaction. You do not want to hide or cover up the emotions, even if they are negative. They always seem to show themselves at some point in a way we don't necessarily want.

Now it's your turn to share... give me the goods!

S H O P  T H E  P O S T :

4 Shoes You Need This Spring

Later, winter! So over you, it's not even funny. Spring is here, officially, but the weather is still unpredictable. It snows one day, the next its literally sunshine and daisies. I'm not complaining, I'll take any sunshine I can get! One struggle I always have during this transition stage is knowing what to wear on my feet. I'm so done with boots by now, but it is still cold and wet! In light of the seasonal changes, I've rounded up the top shoes you need to go from winter to spring.

1- Slip On Loafers

I have been addicted to the slip-on lately. They are the perfect shoe to walk you into warmer weather. Slip-ons leave you some breathing room in the back and the closed-toe option is perfect for these March days. It still is cold, but I can't be bothered to wear boots, and they protect my toes from literally getting frostbite. Want even more springy vibes? Opt for a while pair. Beyond chic. And you can never go wrong with a pointy toe to dress up with a pair of trousers or down with a pair of jeans. These are going to become such an office staple during the warmer months, but I've already started wearing them!

{$32.24 here}

2. White sneakers

If there is one pair of shoe everyone needs in their collection, it's a white sneaker. When the weather is cold but sunny I love pairing white sneakers with some denim and a long wool coat. It's such a refreshing switch up from wearing boots.  In the warmer months, pair them with dresses and skirts for a sporty but classic look. My Keds are one of the best pairs of shoes I own-- they withstand all seasons. I always take them with me while traveling because they are a go anywhere shoe! 

3. Print boots

Remember how I mentioned snow is still continuing to fall? I just know we're bound to have another snowfall soon! So no, we can't just dismiss the realistic necessity of boots just yet. I have a funky pair to help me get through these final dreary winter days. The print screams spring, but the practicability is there. Actually, now that I am looking at these ones again, they are so impractical! LOL-- a high lucite heeled bootie? Oh well. There are so many fun options for printed boots these days, it's not hard to find a pair you'll love. Better than basic black and you can mix and match your spring patterns. 

{white $49.99 here}

4. Mules

The mule is not going anywhere, guys! And why should they! They are so versatile and so functional. You just slide 'em on. I bought a few pairs this season already. One flat pink pair, and also a black block heeled style. I just love shoes with no backs! This may be too much info-- but sometimes it can get hot and my feet swell! Especially while walking in the warm weather. I know I'm not the only one! Going backless is the best way to let 'em breathe but still look stylish. Sidewalk ready at any time, and they pair with any outfit-- jeans, skirts, dresses. I'm sold.

Are there any styles you are hooked on for spring? Let me know if I missed any!

S H O P  T H E  P O S T :

Winter to Spring Dressing

I think we're all done with winter and all of it's antics. No more snow, please. I would like sunshine, warmth and if it's not too much to ask for, to wake up to the sounds of birds chirping. Are you with me?

I know we're one step closer to the new season and daylight savings time has officially made my heart a little happier since it's now lighter out later in the evening. But I'm so ready for the wardrobe switch up. I've already started incorporating spring prints and pieces into my outfits. These pants? Yes to the jungle, palm print! These shoes? Hello, open back! I'm obsessed with both pieces. The pants I scored at Old Navy for literally $2.99. Don't ask me how, because I don't know. They were just on clearance! And these shoes, I'm just loving lately. White shoes are perfect for spring-- they're fresh, detailed and I love the little heel (perfect for the office!).

Even though it may not be spring juuuuust yet, you can definitely start bringing out your pieces now. Here's how!

Pair with knits-- like a turtleneck or sweater. Keeping the colours neutral will really bring about those springy vibes.

Pastel coloured accessories-- blush, lavender, robin's egg blue. Pairing heavier pieces with these colours make the perfect transitional outfits.

White shoes-- I love wearing white sneakers or a pair of slides (like these) with heavier items. As long as you can manage without socks you are good to go! It really feels like spring once the white shoes come out!

S H O P  T H E  P O S T :

W H A T  I 'M  W E A R I N G :
Vintage earrings, Simons sweater, Old Navy pants, Kate Spade bag, Expressions slides

Mustard, Blush and Old Tricks

This past weekend was so refreshing. Finally, the temperatures were above freezing and the sun was shining! I feel such a sense of newfound energy when the sun is out. It's making me sooo eager for spring! Sunday I headed to the Wedding Co. Market with my momma for a day of vendor scouting. I couldn't believe all the fab connections I made. I can't wait to put all the plans into action and share more. Is that something you'd like?! More wedding updates? Let me know in the comments, or on Instagram! Perhaps a vlog?! 

Since it was a glorious day I put away my parka and opted for a crisp blush oversized blazer, which is technically a coat. I wear it as both depending on the day! Also, remember this post? So happy I picked up these mustard pants last fall because the colour is taking over this spring! I love it paired with pink. It's so fun and playful but still has that classic P&P vibe. Now for that old trick I mentioned? You guys know I am the queen of the dress tuck (seen here, and here). This shirt? Yeah, it's actually a dress tucked in! I love doing this with my summer dresses because you can get so much more wear out of them! Try it out! 

W H A T  I ' M  W E A R I N G :

Forever 21 pants, blazer, Auguste The Label dress (similar), Topshop shoes (similar), Forever 21 coat, Blue Lemon Paris bag

 S H O P  T  H E  P O S T :

Girl in Bloom

I could not be happier now that the city is in full bloom. First, it was the tulips, then it was the cherry blossoms and magnolia trees, and now the fresh cut peonies are popping up in all the flower shops. My love for blooms is once again becoming increasingly reflected in my wardrobe... I just want to wear all the floral patterns! When I spotted these Vero Moda trousers at The Bay I knew they were coming home with me (you may have also seen this version here). The soft coloured blooms contrast and stand out so nicely against the black, don't they?!

Vero Moda is so great for affordable, feminine inspired pieces. I seem to always find pieces that can really transition from office to weekend wear which I love! And is it just me or does The Bay always have serious deals?! Bay days, 30% of scratch cards, weekend sales... yes, yes, yes! I was at the mall last weekend and Vero Moda had so many floral, pastel, denim, frilly options that it made only picking up these pants (and these) real hard. I've rounded up some more sweet options for you below.. Go wild!

W H A T  I ' M  W E A R I N G : Vero Moda trousers, RW & CO blouse (similar), Celine Catty sunglasses, Target Maeve Gladiator sandals, Sophie Hulme tote bag

S H O P  T H E  P O S T :

Pixi Please : Pixi Beauty in Review

Naturally beautiful, skin serving, botanically enhanced, quick, simple, flawless... Today I'm talking all things Pixi Beauty and if any of these words resonate with you, you need to keep reading.

Before having the pleasure of meeting Pixi makeup artist extraordinaire, Amanda Bell, I was already smitten with the brand. Years ago I would raid Target's beauty section and stock up on the essentials whenever I made a trip over the border. Now that the brand has made its way onto the shelves of Shoppers Drug Mart I can always be sure that my beloved Glow Tonic is never more than a quick hop, skip or jump away!

Amanda and the Pixi team hosted an inspiring luncheon at Colette last week and I can honestly say that the intimate afternoon made me fall even more in love with the company and products! What I love about Pixi is that they focus on enhancing your own skin in the most natural way (winner, winner!!) The skin treats are there to clean and prep the skin and the makeup products are truly there to enhance what you already have, not to cover or hide your own natural beauty. The pastel pink and mint packaging is just a bonus!

Since natural beauty is something so dear to me I really felt connected to the brand. Amanda told us how Pixi came about and shared that in the early days, the infamous Glow Tonic was delivered in barrels to their Soho, London store and the ladies of the shop would package, bottle and label the toner. How cool is that?! Their reason for constantly selling out? The formula has not changed at all! And it's one that is suitable for all skin types. Trust me-- this sensitive skin, rosacea bearing, break-out prone girl can attest to its brilliance!

I wanted to highlight a few tips that I learned from Amanda, and also share a few of my favourite products, old and new!

Stand Out Products:

1. Glow Tonic-  The best toner I've used. It's my go-to morning and night and can honestly say I notice a difference when I forget to apply it or travel without it. It does not dry out your skin, it leaves you feeling fresh (since it exfoliates), clean and glowing.

Pro Tip: The Glow Tonic is the first thing you should be setting in your skin. You don't want to see any old makeup come off on the cotton pad. So make sure you really focus on the cleansing (don't be afraid to really get in there!!)

2. Vitamin Wake Up Mist- A new product and an instant favourite for me. The smell is absolutely in- toxifying-- think orange blossom, lavender and citrus. It's basically summer mornings in a mist. I have been using it anytime throughout the day as a refresher, and also after I apply my makeup to set.

3. Rose Oil Blend- Another amazing product that gives off the ultimate dewy glow. You can use it after your toner as a straight face oil, but I've also been adding a drop to my moisturiser to really hydrate the skin and add some elasticity.

Pro Tip: Mix 1 drop of the Rose Oil Blend with the H20 Skin Drink for the ultimate hydration.

4. Flawless Beauty Primer- One product you will need for the summer! Besides the even skin, this primer adds the most perfect illuminating glow. You can even use it as a face moisturizer. I've been adding my Rose Oil Blend to this primer and finishing off with the Vitamin Wake Up Mist for a simple, flawless, glowing look (it's what I'm wearing in these pictures)! 

OTHER TIPS:

The Hydrating Milky Mist contains black oat which is perfect for sensitive/ rosacea prone skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which is amazing for moisture!
The H20 Skindrink provides a serious moisture surge and a cooling effect.

**Wearing the following Pixi products in these photos:
Glow Tonic
Hydrating Milky Mist
Flawless Beauty Primer mixed with Rose Oil Blend
Vitamin Wake Up Mist
Endlessly Silky Eye Pen- Bronzebeam
Beauty Bronzer- Summertime

S H O P T H E P O S T:

Thank you to Pixi Beauty. Products were given for review but all opinions stated are my own. 

Underneath Layering

Sunny, cloudy, chilly, mild-- can the weather just decide what season it is?! If it could it would make dressing so much easier! We've definitely had some mini bursts of spring-like weather, but overall I feel like spring has been a late arrival. This has definitely tested me in the wardrobe department, forcing me to put together outfits to ensure I can get through whatever the day may bring. The other day the clouds rolled in and I swear you could have mistaken the day for a brisk fall day. 

Instead of covering up the lace cap sleeves of this blouse and wearing a sweater on top, why not switch it around!? I paired a lightweight mock-neck knit under this lace blouse for added warmth, and also style. I love the way the sleeves flare out and how the lace cap sleeves are totally visible. Making one little change by having the sweater underneath allows all the details to shine though (check out the back of this blouse!), while also ensuring I am good and toasty throughout the day.

What do you think of the sweater underneath?! Will you try it? How are you paving way though the muddled weather?

W H A T  I ' M  W E A R I N G : RW & CO blouse (similar), Simons mock neck (similar), Vero Moda trouser, Sophie Hulme tote bag, Celine sunglasses, Target flats 

Trenching

Whatever comes my way, be it sunny skies or bursts of rain I'm taking a new approach. I'm ready for it, trenching through the puddles or lifting my head to chase the sunshine. Every day brings with it new battles, challenges and ups and downs, doesn't it? We are all just rolling with the punches. This is definitely something my brother would say, actually I feel like it was his go-to quote at one point. Nevertheless, it rings true to me right now. But what are my three essentials for this battle in the barracks?

1. Waterproof shoes -- Cougar Boots has me swooning (literally, the shoe is called Swoon) over these waterproof sneakers. Anti-slip, removable cushion inserts and they are guaranteed waterproof. And there's no ounce of compromise on style here.

2. Neutral trench -- Always a necessity. This Club Monaco trench has turned into one of my most loved investment pieces. Timeless, elegant yet structured and leaves you self-assured.

3. Sunglasses -- Not to hide behind, but to shield and protect from harshness. It's okay to use up a bit of defence.

W H A T  I ' M  W E A R I N G : Club Monaco trench, Old Navy blouse, American Eagle denim, Cougar Boots shoes, Sophie Hulme tote bag, Celine sunglasses 

S H O P  T H E  P O S T :