DIY Straw Clutch

After I rounded up my favourite woven bags here I just had to put together a MUCH more affordable DIY version. I knew they would quickly make their way to Toronto, and they officially have, which can only mean one thing-- hello, spring! I love my DIY version for the round shape, size and just for the fact that it cost me $2.00 to make. It's going to be such a summer staple!  The project took all of five minutes to put together and while it may not be as polished as the ones you'll find in the stores, it's a fun piece to take with you just about anywhere this spring/summer. I am so eager for spring like weather... can you tell? I had just to whip it out this weekend for a quick coffee date. Also, can we discuss this bell sleeve v-neck top? It's from the Who What Wear line at Target and I can't get enough of the tie-up arms! So cute! Okay, now back to the bag... Ready to see how easy it is to make?

What You'll Need:

1. 2 woven trays/thin baskets that are roughly the same size (I found mine at Value Village in the home section). I opted for one slighter deeper than the other to create more of a clutch style.
2. 2 pieces of small fabric (I used some random 2-inch leather I had, you can use string too). It's to permanently close one end of the bag.
3. An old chain bracelet or necklace that has a clasp.

How to Make:

1. Lay 1 woven tray on top of the other ensuring the outer rims meet all the way around the 2 pieces.
2. Twist the trays looking for decent sized "holes" or openings/gaps in both pieces of the tray that will allow you to weave a piece of fabric or string through.
3. Take a piece of fabric/leather/string (whatever you have on hand) and weave it through both pieces. Tie tightly to secure of if using fabric like me (glue gun the piece together).
4. On the opposite end of the bag take a piece of chain and weave it through the top of the two woven pieces. This will act as your clasp on the top of the bag. You may need to cut your chain smaller to make for a tighter clasp (use proper pliers if needed). The bracelet I used has a basic lobster clasp so I can easily open and close the bag. Adjust your chain accordingly.
5.*If your bag doesn't have handles try weaving a strap or chain of your desired length through the sides as well.

What I'm Wearing:
AEO Denim X4 Skinny Jean, Who What Wear Bell Sleeve Vee, DIY woven clutch, Sam Edelman leopard D'Orsay Pump (similar, similar)

Check out my DIY pillow case clutch here!

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Black Babydoll Dress

A definite change up from my usual style has me feeling kind of dramatic in this black babydoll dress and over the knee boot combo. Sometimes it's nice to switch things up and get into a black on black ensemble. A few weekends ago I did run over the border to stock up on some essentials at Target and Trader Joe's. (Side note-- guys... I seriously love Trader Joe's. It's an addiction! Make it a point to visit next time you are in the Niagara Falls, NY area. It really is just a hop, skip, and a jump over the border! Stock up on all the cheap nuts, nut butter, kombucha and pantry items you will ever need!) I came across this babydoll dress at Target and thought it was the cutest thing. The slit sleeves, the lace detailing on the front and the way it billows under the bust are what sold me.

I have to say... I haven't bought a black dress in a LONG time. I am just far more gravitated towards all the blush and floral the world can offer, but something about this one caught my eye.  I'm looking forward to wearing this dress more and more as the weather gets warmer, but for now, I am pairing it with my over the knee boots. I may have done this for protection from the wind but I ended up loving the look of the mini paired with the boots. It's fun and retro, yet still sleek! To keep things fun I went with a bright lip. The Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipsticks are seriously matte perfection. They last all day and don't smudge! So smooth, deep in colour and they don't dry out! I'm hooked on them and you should be too. Next, I need to get my hands on "Stepping Out". What do you think of the look?

What I'm Wearing: Target Lace Babydoll dress, Sam Edelman Elina Boots, Poppy & Peonies crossbody, Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick

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Cape Blazer Velvet Top

One way to seriously add some drama to your outfit? Throw on a cape blazer. Not only are they mysterious and chic, but they are down right cool. Am I right?! Leather mules, trousers and a black blazer-- the outfit just screams borrowed from the boys. A total switch up from my go-to floral dresses and skirts. I did add in a pink velvet top  (dress that is tucked in), and tassel earrings to keep things feeling fun.

This past weekend I went on a whirlwind trip to Montreal. But before that, when the weather was seriously pleasant and warm, I headed out with my mom for a quick Sunday afternoon day date. I may still have worn a jacket on top, but the sun was shining which can only mean spring is on its way. I've slowly been incorporating spring pieces into my wardrobe, like this dress that I actually tucked in to act as a shirt. It's super soft, velvety and classic blush, but it's also a mini dress. That wasn't going to stop me from wearing it. There are many ways to play with your spring wardrobe even while it's still cool out. Don't get stuck in wardrobe limbo. Whether you tuck it into your pants, layer a turtleneck underneath, or throw on a pair of tights and over the knee boots, you can dive into your spring wardrobe in winter.

What are you doing to break into your spring attire, because I know you are just itching to do it! Let me know.

What I'm Wearing: Shein Black Shawl Collar Cape Sleeve Blazer, RW&CO Modern Stretch Legging, Zara Mules, Velvet Dress (similar), Francesa's earrings, Poppy & Peonies Crossbody,

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