Hot Tub Pool Party

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Hot Tub Pool Party

Spent yesterday afternoon at brunch with some wonderful friends, great food and good tunes. The bubbly was on ice, as we ate fresh bagels, tropical fruit salad, potato leek and feta torte, crudites and home made hummus. The rest of the day was spent relaxing in the hot tub and pool, celebrating the end of summer and squeezing the last drops out of the warm weather and a weekend with no commitments.

Throw on some 90’s hip hop and indie dance hits and you have the makings of a magical afternoon.  Thanks to Jess, Aleks, Liron and Allia for a day of fizzy cocktails and bubbly conversation!

One, Two, Three: Day to Night Dressing

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One, Two, Three: Day to Night Dressing

I promise, there is a logical segue here. When you have more than a few things on your day’s To Do list, what you need are versatile pieces that will carry you from one task to the next.

Easy mix and match switch-hitters are a key part of putting together an eclectic style that will be as big a hit at 8 am as they will be at 8 pm, when your day is still going and night life is just winding up. Your clothes need to be chameleons that can work in multiple ways, no one needs an item that only goes with one thing taking up valuable real estate in their closet.

These looks each have at least two pieces that can easily transfer to the next outfit. Swap out #1’s black shoes for the punchy tie-up rust coloured shoes and add a polka dot clutch to wake the more subdued clothes up.

These looks were inspired by my day on Monday when I had to go 16 plus hours without going home with a triathlon of events.

#1: I was called in to do make-up for the VP of a major bank and the CEO of a non-profit, to prep them for their on-camera close-ups. They were shooting video content promoting their partnership and commitment to combating Breast Cancer, so it was important to put these clients at ease and get them ready to pitch this vital fundraising initiative. For me, in addition to being comfortable hauling and setting up equipment, it was necessary to look the part of a pulled-together make-up artist.

#2: Later that afternoon, I had lunch with my wife, walked the city and window shopped. I traded my more professional, structured top for a fun floral shell and cute shoes.

#3: I finished my play day by meeting a friend at a hip little food joint called, appropriately, The Hole in the Wall (Toronto). I traded up one final time (changing in my car) for a flippy skirt to go with (but not quite match) my floral top.

Hole in the Wall, Toronto.

Hole in the Wall, Toronto.

A hidden gem, built between two old buildings, this restaurant is long and narrow ... and full of character!

A hidden gem, built between two old buildings, this restaurant is long and narrow … and full of character!

I’ll have to say that this day of clothes hopping was entirely worth it, because after sharing some pinot grigio with my delightful friend, Katherine, and eating the best burger I can remember in a LONG time, the charming server (after overhearing our feminist conversation) dropped off a complimentary chocolate pot de creme and peanut butter dessert, layered decadently in a cute little mason jar and topped with whipped cream.

If I was going to be living it up, I certainly looked the part. Cheers to great causes, great shoes, great food and great company.

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Jonathan Saunders zip top
675 CAD – net-a-porter.com

Myne plaid top
180 CAD – ifchic.com

Oasis shirt
20 CAD – oasis-stores.com

Warehouse
20 CAD – johnlewis.com

Ezra flower print skirt
22 CAD – zulily.com

Pleated mini skirt
16 CAD – beautifulhalo.com

Jimmy Choo black leather shoes
1,120 CAD – net-a-porter.com

Jeffrey Campbell ankle strap shoes
195 CAD – anthropologie.com

Klub nico shoes
140 CAD – tradesy.com

3 1 Phillip Lim black leather handbag
1,405 CAD – lanecrawford.com

Kayu black crossbody purse
180 CAD – anthropologie.com

River Island bucket bags handbag
79 CAD – riverisland.com

Pretty Tough

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Pretty Tough
Unexpected contrasts: pastel and black, cutouts and flowing cropped trousers. This look is pretty, yet tough. The cropped top with simple shape, paired with the high waist trouser on the bottom helps lengthen the proportion of the body and the breezy cut of the pant keeps it feeling light, despite the full coverage. Add a retro fringed vest to take things in an interesting direction and some subtle Navajo detailing in the accessories department takes this away from ‘pastel and pearls’ territory. Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.

Black slim fit shirt
12 CAD – shein.com

H M vest waistcoat
61 CAD – hm.com

TIBI silk shorts
335 CAD – modaoperandi.com

Forever 21 lace up wedge sandals
36 CAD – forever21.com

Rachael Ruddick leather bucket bag
440 CAD – otteny.com

Gypsy Soul collar jewelry
33 CAD – shopdandylionboutique.com

Raga cuff bangle
53 CAD – surfstitch.com

Engraved silver jewelry
12 CAD – newlook.com

Oh Oh Those Summer Nights

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Oh Oh Those Summer Nights

As the evenings cool off, keep rocking those summer prints and throw on a cozy poncho to ward off the chill. Add woven and textural accessories and rough details like raw quartz crystal for a tougher, more rustic edge. As always, shoes you can walk in are a must.

Dorothy Perkins floral print maxi dress
91 CAD – houseoffraser.co.uk

River Island cape poncho
92 CAD – riverisland.com

Miss Albright print shoes
235 CAD – anthropologie.com

Burberry brown leather shoulder bag
3,690 CAD – net-a-porter.com

Givenchy rock crystal necklace
1,010 CAD – bergdorfgoodman.com

Charlotte Russe belt
9.90 CAD – charlotterusse.com

Dark Blooms

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Dark Blooms

A coy nod to Pretty Little Liars’ character Vivienne Darkbloom, this maxi dress uses a dark backdrop to highlight feminine florals. My favourite fringed black purse and some geometric jewelery add some hard lines to this otherwise soft look. Also taking my new Topshop Mid-heel slingbacks for a spin: heaven! Maybe even throw on a floppy black hat for added mystery and moodiness.

Chiffon dress
55 CAD – pinkqueen.com

Long sleeve black dress
48 CAD – kalolia.com

Topshop shoes
73 CAD – topshop.com

Akira black handbag
60 CAD – shopakira.com

Plastic jewelry
77 CAD – anthropologie.com

Bib necklace
72 CAD – anthropologie.com

Gold earrings
5.41 CAD – yoins.com

Gemstone earrings
8.32 CAD – newlook.com

Cottage Bound – Vacation Checklist 2

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Cottage Bound - Vacation Checklist 2

What?! Twice in one day? Yes. This is my 87th entry on the ‘new’ blog. Because one page of ‘what to pack for the cottage’ doesn’t quite cut it, here is the other half of the hit list. Please leave room in your suitcase for: jelly shoes (for water walking and wet feet), a peplum top, sunscreen, bug repellent, striped bikini (a soaked suit is never fun to put back on, so bring a spare), lounge wear like a long tunic and drawstring pants, linen pants, and warm layers for night time by the bonfire.

I used to draw my vacation packing lists (no joke), so I would have a record of what I’d taken in case I lost my suitcase, and because it’s fun to draw, and so I could visualize what I wanted to wear before pulling it all out of the neatly arranged bag.

I’m an organizer to the core, but definitely in need of some time away from the city.

What do you consider a must pack for your vacations?

Slouchy tunic
345 CAD – lespommettes.com

Free People stripe top
55 CAD – asos.com

H M jumper top
20 CAD – hm.com

Zara halter neck top
39 CAD – zara.com

Black long sleeve t shirt
24 CAD – amazon.com

H&M zipper pants
51 CAD – hm.com

Tory Burch swim bikini bottom
82 CAD – farfetch.com

Mikoh bikini cover up
205 CAD – avenue32.com

Melissa jelly flat
135 CAD – nordstrom.com

Kate Spade wallet
16 CAD – katespade.com

Eugenia Kim woven hat
285 CAD – theoutnet.com

Coach logo sunglasses
235 CAD – sunglasshut.com

Sun Bum sun care
21 CAD – nordstrom.com

Turkish beach towel
58 CAD – dianesbeachwear.com

Cottage Bound – Vacation Checklist 1

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Cottage Bound - Vacation Checklist 1

I’m very excited to be heading back to the island of my childhood to spend some much needed Q.T. with my wife and our family… lakeside. My suitcase is packed, and I love a good visual; with a pair of boyfriend jeans, a retro bikini, band t, coverup, deck shoes, a onesie, hat and shades. I’m ready to relaxxxxx.

Glamorous leopard dress
43 CAD – glamorous.com

Maurices womens plus top
51 CAD – maurices.com

White tee
10 CAD – shein.com

Super skinny jeans
59 CAD – hannaandersson.com

Emamò beach wear
565 CAD – net-a-porter.com

Blue romper
28 CAD – rosewe.com

High waisted bikini
52 CAD – etsy.com

Sperry Top-Sider shoes
78 CAD – shoemall.com

Leto scarve
20 CAD – zulily.com

Billabong wool hat
47 CAD – lulus.com

Blue scarve
225 CAD – trouva.com

Black glasses
13 CAD – necessaryclothing.com

Scotch & Soda Pirate T-shirt
77 CAD – scotch-soda.com

From Garbage to Great Buns: OOAK Artist Profiles

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This is me … looking into the Cinderella Garbage display case (upside down) of  … transfixed.

Cinderella Garbage.

Cinderella Garbage stones fused with gemstones.

Cinderella Garbage makes jewelery out of trash.

Cinderella Garbage makes beautiful pieces of wearable art out of trash.

You’ve heard of rags to riches and ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.’ Well, the artists behind Cinderella Garbage have literally  turned garbage into gems with their line of gorgeous jewels.

To be honest, I don’t entirely understand how it works, but the idea of taking waste and making it into something new and shiny appeals to me on so many levels. This graphic helps shed some light on the process (assuming you speak French – which I do).

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This graphic helps shed some light on the process.

I was fascinated to see the truly brilliant items at this year’s show, some of the most conversation-worthy pieces I’ve ever seen. Engagement ring anyone? Rat necklace?

For details on her process and more about her line of jewelery, visit:  http://www.cinderellagarbage.com/CG_2_O5KT.html

Now for something completely different: Kiriki Press’ embroidery, by Michelle Galletta. Based in Toronto, Kiriki Press has a line of totally adorable embroidery starter kits and ready made embroidered items. Eeep, they sure are cute.

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Little Fox – Kiriki Press.

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Owl by Kiriki Press.

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The whole gang.

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DIY kits.

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Feeling crafty?

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Not much needs to be said – the products speak for themselves. They are too cute and if you’re looking for a new hobby, stitch away!

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Check out their full range of products on Etsy at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/kirikipress?ref=l2-shop-info-avatar

Visit them on the web at http://www.kirikipress.com/index.html

Still in the textiles department, Paula Gonzalez’s textile and home decor line – Phaulet. 

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I want to bury myself in a pile of tropical pillows and pretend I’m in Tahiti.

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The colours were just incredible and the large floral prints and oversized flora and fauna made me giddy. 

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Imagine one of these gorgeous pillows on a crisp while quilted bedspread.

Her online shop http://www.phaulet.com/ features some of the following, very cool items:

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Throw pillow by Phaulet

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Textiles by Phaulet

OOAK describes her work as, “old illustrations… mixed to create very unique and unconventional art-pieces to wear and decorate spaces.” I’m definitely going to be looking to add some of her work to my house next show!

A cool clutch is definitely within reach at Heather Scott’s booth for Rock & Roll Romantic. Here the reversible handbags, in a variety of colours, were hard to choose from. With so many finishes and colour combos, picking just one was a hard decision!

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Get your hands on the handbags from Rock & Roll Romantic!

Splattered effect.

Splattered effect.

Pretty painted pouches!

Pretty painted pouches!

For more details, check out https://www.facebook.com/ROCKANDROLLROMANTIC

Last, butttttt certainly not least, get your behind into some of these supremely stylish leggings and ‘sweats’. At Skinny Sweats, the motto “Lazy, Sexy, Cool” makes perfect sense and who can’t get behind a line of crazy comfortable pants that make your buns look fantastic?

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Amazing printed and solid pants.

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Get into these hot pants.

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Double take: these bottoms come in two styles, both will make your legs look ready to party.

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Lazy as you can get.

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A cheeky motto, to be sure, but I’m liking their vibe!

Check out all their collections and consider how good you’d look in all of them! http://www.skinnysweats.com/FW12-Collection-Page-4.html

The artist profiles will keep on coming for the foreseeable future. Support local and show these artists some love!

White Feather Designs: One of a Kind Artist Profile

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At this year’s One of A Kind Show I was really blown away by how far the market has come in terms of representing diverse local artists. There are some really wonderful things going on there and the show just keeps getting better. For the next two weeks, I will be featuring independent designers and artists from the show, highlighting my favourites.

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White Feather Design’s set-up was sleek and stylish. My wife and I worked the booth for Breanne one evening and had no trouble talking about our love of all things WFD; we did have trouble, at times, keeping up with the demand. Her booth was popular and filled with enough great work to satisfy a wide variety of style palates. Always a good thing.

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Cheers-ing to a great gig where we got to meet friendly art-loving folks and supporters of local businesses, while talking about great jewelery.

White Feather Designs, by Breanne Morrow, is an obvious place to start with the Artist Profiles for several reasons: 1) Breanne is a supremely talented artist and an all-round lovely human.  2) She is an entrepreneur and mother who has managed to make the dream a reality by taking her designing full-time. 3) Her work is original and beautiful, with excellent quality and detail that is worth every penny.

Some not-to-be-missed designs include the Herkimer diamond studs, enamel necklaces with tassels, geometric necklaces and cuffs in a variety of materials, and amazingly light 3D-printed jewelery in Stainless Steel, Matte Black, Brass or Sterling Silver with a brushed finish.

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I was a huge fan of the finger rings that fit on various spots (traditional or above the knuckles) and can be endlessly mixed and matched.

Brass mix and match rings (available in several cool styles)

Brass stacking rings (available in several cool styles)

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Geometric pieces in sterling silver and other metals. Intricate, graphic and wear-with-anything. The chevron/arrow motif was one of my faves.

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This was the necklace design was THE one for me. I picked up a handmade copper, brass and enamel necklace with tassels. I also got one for my stylish Mama.

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These beauties are available in a wide array of colour combos, and can be found on the WFD Etsy page. https://www.etsy.com/listing/230144866/adjustable-enamel-tassel-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_12

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Herkimer Diamond Studs

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Enamel studs.

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Geometric Studs, also available in hearts, octagons, circles, etc.

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Mirror, Mirror on the wall, which piece is the fairest of them all? If any of these ended up in my stocking, on my finger, wrist, neck or wrapped as a surprise I’d be pleased as heck. Check out all of the awesomeness by following the links below, or follow WFD on Facebook to hear about deals, sales and new designs. https://www.facebook.com/pages/White-Feather-Designs-Jewellery/212067465525069

http://white-feather-designs.myshopify.com/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/WFDJewellery

Work It

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Heading to a conference. Great way to spend a summer. Especially when you just so happen to get to stay in the same hotel where you spent your wedding night. So, now that you know you’ll be sitting in the evenings in a roof top hot tub, enjoying blackout curtains and having your beautiful wife join you there for three nights… you’re left with the question of what to wear.

This could be like many teacher things, and involve a wide array of styles – from cargo shorts and polo shirts, to pencil skirts and blouses. I’m going to aim for a happy mix of comfortable, bright and eclectic – add a dash of confidence and no one will know that I’ve never been trained in TOK before (Theory of Knowledge *an International Baccalaureate Program course about ‘Ways of Knowing’ and ‘Areas of Knowledge’).  The initial email was full of so much jargon and abbreviations that I whimpered and called my friend Jenn for help with translations. Never fear – I will look poised and competent, absorbing as much as I can from 3 days of professional development.

Patterned skirt and blouse, with shoes you can walk in. Perfect for the journey to the venue and for walking post-session.

Patterned skirt and blouse, and swap these heels out for a small wedge – any shoes you can walk in. Perfect for the journey to the venue and for walking post-session.

A maxi-dress and cropped white blazer. Appropriate for a summer meeting, but lose the hat - instead I'll be flat iron- curling my lob.

A maxi-dress and cropped white blazer. Appropriate for a summer meeting, but lose the hat – instead I’ll be flat iron- curling my lob.

A shell in a solid colour (black for me, with a nice wide neck) and a high-waisted skirt in a bubbly print (I'll be wearing citrine and black and grey geometric).  Add some pretty black patent leather peep toe wedges.

A shell in a solid colour (black for me, with a nice wide neck) and a high-waisted skirt in a bubbly print (I’ll be wearing citrine and black and grey geometric). Add some pretty black patent leather peep toe wedges.

I’ll suss out the level of business in the boardroom (conference center? lounge? we’ll see), and determine how dressy to go based on what I encounter on day one.

I have a dress almost exactly like this; same shade with a swirling cream pattern. Paired with a great necklace and laser cutout leather wedge gladiators... I'm all set for daytime and dinner afterwards.

I have a dress almost exactly like this; same shade with a swirling cream pattern. Paired with a great necklace and laser cutout leather wedge gladiators… I’m all set for daytime and dinner afterwards.

I don't have anything quite like this, but I like the vibe. The patterned frock and sweet jacket with a bold contrasting necklace. Do-able.

I don’t have anything quite like this, but I like the vibe. The patterned frock and sweet jacket with a bold contrasting necklace. Do-able.

Simple and comfortable. This skirt is my favourite colour and stands out (probably always) but especially paired with black.

Simple and comfortable. This skirt is my favourite colour and stands out (probably always) but especially paired with black.

A blouse, tucked in our out, will look perfect with wide leg linen trousers (cropped and high waisted, to show off some ankle and a great pair of shoes).  Swap out a few accessories and you're ready for night time. Or change the pants for jeans if you are feeling constricted.

A blouse, tucked in our out, will look perfect with wide leg linen trousers (cropped and high waisted, to show off some ankle and a great pair of shoes – preferably not ones that would make me walk like a girl graduating from grade 8 in her first pair of ill-fitting heels). Swap out a few accessories and you’re ready for night time. Or change the pants for jeans if you are feeling constricted.

Each day after the conference I’ll hit the gym at the hotel, and then meet friends in the evenings, pretending that I still live downtown and am not a fixture of suburbia.

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Always a fan of stripes with gold and red. Ahoy!

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Bring those cropped trousers back and pair them with a graphic top.

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My favourite new pants are a genius creation from Titika, in a bright print, they are cut like a trouser but bend like a yoga salutation. With a simple top, they are big bang for the buck.

These are my new go-to pant. They feel AMAZING.

These are my new go-to pant. They feel AMAZING – as described above.

Stay tuned for whether I got a passing grade. What is on your work wardrobe hit list?