Neon Peach

I scored this vibrant little number in the post-Christmas sales last year, and it's easily become my favourite coat to wear once Christmas is over and the new year has begun. It's even more highlighter-esque in real life, if you can believe it, and I find it to be the perfect transitional item for this dreary time of year: warm enough to keep the chill at bay but bright enough to feel fresh and springlike. Some people are convinced it's a pinkish colour, but I consider it a part of the orange family -- a neon peach if you will. To tone it down, I wear it with basic pieces in neutral shades...but I can't resist the addition of a punchy orange lip. 

Wool coat - J. Crew

Sweater - Dynamite

Jeans - Dittos via The Bay

Shoes - Forever 21

Sunglasses - Ray-Ban

Lipstick - So Chaud by MAC

Little Things I'm Loving: January

How have you all been enjoying 2015 so far? Although January is without a doubt my least favourite month of the year, this one hasn't been so bad. I'm feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the New Year (long may my positivity last ;).

Here are five little things that have been brightening the grey days of this past month...


1. I didn't have any intention of buying a new pair of shoes when I wandered into Forever 21 last week...but somehow that's just what I ended up doing! These pointed ankle-strap flats (also available in nude) are pretty much my dream shoe. And they're super comfortable too! I find that most shoes I buy (even flats) require a torturous breaking-in period, but these happily did not.

2. I'd been on the look out for a new highlighter for a while, and NARS' Albatross highlighting blush is exactly what I was searching for: something that I can lightly dust on my cheekbones and nose to give a bit of a luminous glow without being garish.

3. I've always been fascinated by other countries and cultures, so this beautiful book by Lonely Planet -- which gives a one-page low-down on every country in the world, complete with stunning photography -- is right up my alley. 

4. I know there's no real need for a print planner, as anything worth noting, like appointments and the like, can be tapped into a phone in 2 seconds...but I'm a sucker for an aesthetically pleasing product, and Katie Daisy's 2015 Live Simply Planner -- filled with uplifting quotes and gorgeous illustrations -- makes planning ahead that much more fun for me. 

5. Have you guys heard of the app Trivia Crack?! Basically, you play against an opponent to answer a series of questions from six categories -- Art, Science, Sports, Entertainment, Geography (my favourite!), and History. Whoever correctly answers the questions from all categories first wins! It truly is addictive...

10 Items: Pastel Coats

I love the idea of winter pastels around this time of year. I was all about plaid and rich, heavy fabrics in the months leading up to Christmas, but now that the festive season is over, I'm more than ready for springtime with its sugary shades. 

Here are 10 coats that look good enough to eat! Which would you pick? Or do you find pastels too sickly sweet for your taste?!




1. Linea at House of Fraser / 2. Choies / 3. Lavand at House of Fraser / 4. Enföld / 5. New Look 
6. Pull & Bear / 7. Mackintosh at Harrods / 8. L.K. Bennett at John Lewis / 9. George at Asda / 10. Gucci 

Grey Days in Gardens

As you may have guessed from this post and this one (and even here, I guess), coats are kind of my thing. Some people lust over handbags, others favour shoes, but for me, a good coat trumps all. I only buy one new coat a year, but I keep my little collection in constant rotation (this H&M number, for example, is five years old but I have no intention of discarding it anytime soon). It's actually my favourite item to wear this time of year because it has an almost springlike feel to it -- as soon as Christmas is over, I'm always ready to ditch the red and plaid in favour of a lighter look.

Coat - H&M

Hat - Topshop

Tights - Penneys

Boots* - Steve Madden

Gloves - Accessorize

Lipstick - Posh Pink by Lancôme

*eeee I never noticed how grey these boots are (I totally thought they were as black as my tights, and in hindsight probably wouldn't have worn them with this outfit...)

Mint Magic

Vicky recently had a styling project for school that she needed two models for...so of course Claudia and I were more than happy to help a sista out ;) I'm not thrilled with how my hair/make-up/awkward poses turned out, but I thought I'd throw these photos from the shoot up anyway. The skirt was just used for the photo-shoot, but the sweater is a definite keeper! Mint green is one of my favourite colours, and I love the embellished neckline (you can see it more clearly in these photos). 

Sweater - Topshop

Skirt - Lord & Taylor via The Bay

Heels - Steve Madden

(Make-up artist's make-up used)

Festively Nautical

While I'm fond of the classic nautical-inspired combination of blue, red, and white, there's something just so intrinsically summery about those colours together that it puts me off wearing them this time of year. However, if you exchange the blue and red for navy and burgundy (and add a dash of sparkle somewhere), you've got yourself a look that's decidedly more festive and wintry. And hey, I'm even getting a head start on 2015 with my marsala-coloured jeans ;)

Sequin-collared Breton tee - Banana Republic

Blazer - Dynamite

Coated jeans - H&M

Boots - Steve Madden

Silver cuff bracelet - Forever 21

Nail polish - La Moss by Butter

Lipstick - mix of Rebel (MAC) and Majella (NARS)

10 Items: Festive Footwear

Last week, I shared my picks for 10 sparkly items of clothing that I would happily wear all day, every day this time of year. Today I thought I'd put the focus on festive footwear with 10 glittery pairs of shoes are sure to put a sparkle in your step! Which are your favourites?

1. RED Valentino / 2. Kate Spade / 3. Keds x Kate Spade  / 4. J. Crew / 5. Paul Smith Shoes 

6. Bimba Y Lola / 7. Miu Miu / 8. Dune / 9. Lucy Choi / 10. Kate Spade

Candy Cane

I've been wearing this plaid scarf pretty much every day since I bought it -- it's just so cosy and festive, I can't resist! While I'll occasionally wear it with my black brocade coat or my red one, this cream wool is my favourite coat to pair with it (I guess I just love the Christmassy, candy cane vibe of red, green, and white together!). 

I'm also thrilled with these new boots I recently picked up at Winners -- I'd been looking everywhere for the perfect pair of flat, black boots with some kind of studded detailing, and these beauties, the only pair of their kind left on the (very) bare shelves, just so happened to be in my size! I just know I'm going to get so much wear out of them, year-round (I'm already envisioning wearing them in summer, with bare legs and a sundress). 

Scarf - Gap

Coat - RW & Co.

Boots - Vince Camuto via Winners

Lipstick - Love It (Lancôme) 

10 Items: Sparkle

I love, love, love anything sparkly -- it's just so fun, so festive, so decadent. While it's obviously a style well suited to parties/nighttime, I equally love the look of a sequinned piece casually worn with low-key basics for day (think sparkly trousers with an oversized sweatshirt, or a glittery top with boyfriend jeans). 

What's your favourite way to wear sparkle?!


1. BCBG Dress / 2. H&M Jacket / 3. River Island Skirt  / 4. Alice + Olivia Jacket  / 5. New Look Shorts 
6. Calypso St. Barth Top / 7. Case-Mate iPhone Case / 8. H&M Dress / 9. BCBG Leggings / 10. Anya Hindmarch Clutch

Coat Weather

While Vancouver never gets that cold, I'm glad that it gets just chilly enough to be able to wear coats for a few months of the year. What I love about a good, statement winter coat is that you can just throw it on as you head out the door and instantly look put-together (no matter how scruffy your outfit underneath is). Ditto these over-the-knee boots -- I'm actually wearing a ridiculously laddered pair of tights with them, but as long as the damage doesn't show, no one's the wiser ;)

Coat - Jacob

Hat - Topshop

Boots - Aldo

Grey lace skirt - Jacob

Gloves - Accessorize

Lip balm - Hibiscus (Burt's Bees)

10 Trends for Autumn/Winter 2014

Hello! Sorry for the lack of posting these past few weeks...I was in Calgary for my friend's wedding at the beginning of the month (more on that later!) and things got a little sidetracked since then. Anyway, I'm back now with a post I've been looking forward to writing for quite some time...my personal take on this season's trends! Back in June, I did a similar post for Spring/Summer's trends, and now here are the looks I'm excited to try this fall (as well as the ones that I don't quite think I can pull off). 

What are your favourite trends of the season? And which do you think you'll pass on?!

1. Moody Florals
While I love big, bright, splashy prints for spring/summer, this time of year calls for something a bit darker and moodier. Whether it's in the form of a dress, skirt, top, or trousers, I'm glad that the dark floral trend is sticking around for another season. 
Topshop midi dress - nordstrom.com

2. Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots have been kicking around for quite some time now, but are enjoying a resurgence in popularity thanks to the '60s trend that's been permeating the fashion scene this season. I love the sleek look of a classic black pair, but red would be fun, too.

Church's leather booties - barneys.com

3. Winter Pastels

I love pastels year-round -- I love how they can look so crisp and refreshing in springtime, yet so cosy and marshmallowy in the colder months. While I love the rich hues traditionally associated with this time of year, I'm also a fan of these more unexpected sugary shades.

Ted Baker pink coat - harrods.com

4. A-Line Minis

Funnily enough, I prefer shorter skirts in the winter and longer, midi lengths when the weather's warmer (probably because I prefer minis with tights and midis with bare legs). The '60s-inspired A-line skirt is flattering on all shapes, and looks great paired with a chunky sweater or turtleneck. 

Carven short a line skirt - flannels.com

5. Over-the-Knee Boots

Despite my love for this look, I've always found it hard to find boots that actually go over my knee (and not awkwardly hit right at it). Last year, however, I was lucky enough to score the perfect black suede pair at Aldo...and I have a feeling I'll be getting just as much wear out of them this winter as I did the last.

Tory Burch distressed leather riding boots - toryburch.com

6. Fast Food Fashion

For someone who loves McDonald's (and junk food in general) as much as I do, you'd think I'd be more enthusiastic about a Golden Arches-embossed handbag. But nope, this trend doesn't appeal to me in the slightest. What can I say? I guess I'm just not playful or rich enough for fast food fashion.

Moschino quilted chain handbag - monnierfreres.co.uk

7. Colourful Fur

Back in the early '00s, I sported a subtle take on this trend (a denim jacket trimmed with a lurid red fur collar), but these days I'm way too sensible and boring to give it another shot. Another trend best left to the Cara Delevingnes of this world, I think. 

Oui Odile blue faux fur jacket - farfetch.com

8. Cocoon Coats

I think this mannish look is definitely cool, but really not the most flattering for my type of figure (I generally prefer a more feminine style with a defined waist). And in my books, flattering trumps cool every time.

Violeta by Mango wrap coat - johnlewis.com

9. Monk Strap Shoes
What the ugly sandal was to Spring/Summer, the monk strap shoe is to Autumn/Winter...and again, I'm just not attracted to the ugly footwear staple of the season. Yes, it's cool, but as far as I'm concerned, this is one style that can stay in the monastery.
The Office Of Angela Scott low heel shoes - neimanmarcus.com

10. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks, roll necks, polo necks...whatever you call them, they're back with a vengeance. While I'm including this look in my "No!" section, I'm actually more on the fence about it... Generally, I think turtlenecks look the most flattering and elegant on those with a flatter chest, but I think I could just about pull one off if I layered it under a jacket. 
Silvian Heach knit sweater - houseoffraser.co.uk

A Teal Tale

Teal is a colour I rarely gravitate towards when it comes to clothes (for no good reason other than being put off by the Aer Lingus vibe the shade evokes). But after happening upon this little dress in Vicky's wardrobe, I began to see the appeal of this most versatile hue, which pairs beautifully with gold jewellery, hot pink lipstick, and lilac nail polish (or so I choose to believe!)

Teal dress - Forever 21

Gold spiky necklace - River Island

Owl ring - Aldo Accessories

Black tights - Express

Black heels - my Fergalicious Louboutins

Lipstick - "Schiap" by NARS

Nail polish - "Lilacism" by Essie

10 Things to Do in February

Happy February, everyone! We had a lot of fun compiling our list of things to do in February (and we've actually managed to post it on the first and not the last day of the month for a change ;-) We hope you enjoy!

1. Welcome Spring

http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/galanthus%20nivalis

In Ireland, the 1st of February (St Brigid's Day) is considered the first day of Spring. While it may seem a bit premature to some, we are all for welcoming the new season as early as possible, and what better way to do so than buying a bunch of fresh flowers to brighten up your living space?

2. Watch the Super Bowl

http://covington.mollymalonesirishpub.com/?p=3564

Ok, ok - this is something we felt obliged to include, as we realise that the Super Bowl is Kind Of A Big Deal for some people. But to be honest, we don't even know who's playing, and to be really honest, we don't care. What we will be doing, however, is keeping a beady eye on Beyonce's performance during the Halftime Show, on the look-out for any potential lip-syncing.

3. Celebrate Chinese New Year 

http://malaysiachefs.com/lyon-2013-vote-for-malaysia-pastry-team/

Sunday, the 10th of February ushers in the Chinese Year of the Snake. If, like Ali, you were born in a Snake Year (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001), then an extra special Gung Hay Fat Choy to you! (Sorry for that butchering of your language, any Cantonese speakers out there!)

4. Indulge in a Pancake Feast on Shrove Tuesday

http://clclt.com/eatmycharlotte/archives/2011/03/01/happy-national-pancake-day

This year, Pancake Day aka Shrove Tuesday, falls on the 12th. Whip up a batch of the ultimate comfort food and serve with as many decadent toppings as you please, especially if you'll be partaking in #5 on our list.

5. Give Up Something For Lent

http://talkwiththepreacher.org/2012/02/24/all-or-nothing-a-lenten-lie/

While Lent, the time between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday, is observed by Christians as a time of abstaining from vices, you don't have to be religious to give something up in the time leading up to Easter. It'll make that chocolate binge all the sweeter if you've been deprived for over a month! (Although you're technically allowed "dispensations" on Sundays and feast days, ie. Valentine's Day, Paddy's Day, birthdays...at least in our books you are ;-)

6. Celebrate Valentine's Day

http://www.windsorhistoricalsociety.org/valentines_05.html

Whether you're loved-up or single, celebrate the day of love as you see fit, whether that involves a romantic candle-lit dinner or bingeing on heart-shaped chocolates. And no, we don't care if it's a cheesy, commercialised Hallmark Holiday. We like Hallmark Holidays. 

7. Partake in Random Acts of Kindness Day 

http://www.weirdunsocializedhomeschoolers.com/2012/10/50-random-acts-of-kindness/

Sunday the 17th is the official Random Acts of Kindness day, though, obviously, every day should be one, right?! The url under the picture is a link to a fantastic list of 50 ideas for simple acts of kindness - definitely worth checking out.

8. Celebrate Family Day 

http://www.financefox.ca/family-day-blog-love/

Even though Family Day is officially a Canadian thing (taking place on the third Monday in February), there's no reason why you can't enjoy some time with your family wherever you are in the world. Whether you see a movie together, go for dinner, or simply have a Skype session, it's nice to spend time with your folks (even if they're as dysfunctional as the Griffin family). 

9. Watch the Oscars

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/oscars/9792998/Oscars-2013-full-nominations.html

Sunday the 24th is the 85th Annual Academy Awards, and, of course, our eyes will be glued to the screen. While we don't have any favourites we'd like to see win (of the movies nominated for Best Picture, we've only seen Les Misérables, which none of us particularly enjoyed), we're still looking forward to an evening of Hollywood glamour.

10. Have a Home Spa Day

http://blogs.babble.com/being-pregnant/2011/07/28/natural-post-partum-care-diy-herbal-sitz-bath/

Run the bath, light the candles, dig out the body lotions and face masks...this is the perfect time of year to indulge in a relaxing few hours of pampering in the comfort of your own home.

10 Things to Do in January

Happy January, guys! We hope your 2013 is going fantastically thus far. Here's our list of 10 suggestions for the month - hope you enjoy :-)

1. Celebrate New Year's Day

http://vancouverisawesome.com/2013/01/03/vancouver-daze-polar-bear-swim-centennial-beach-tsawwassen/

Embrace 2013 with gusto by braving the elements, whether you go for a bracing Polar Bear Swim or a cobweb-clearing winter walk.

2. Make a List of New Year's Resolutions

http://fistfuloftalent.com/2012/12/fot-2013-resolutions.html

Yes, it's a cliche, but there is something so satisfying about starting off the New Year afresh with a batch of resolutions. (And, even if you've already fallen off the wagon, you can always "re-start" them on Chinese New Year in February ;-)

3. De-Christmas the House

http://blog.sfgate.com/sfmoms/2010/12/29/when-do-you-take-down-your-christmas-tree/

There's nothing so depressing as seeing remnants of Christmas well into January, so make sure that every last strand of tinsel and chocolate santa is well and truly gone so you can move on with 2013.

4. Clean Out Your Fridge

http://mommylife.net/archives/2009/07/cleaning_the_re.html

On a similar note, now's the time to thoroughly clean out your fridge and toss out anything with a 2012 expiry date (because eating food that went off last year sure ain't good).

5. Take Up a Hobby

http://www.docdreyfus.com/psychologically-speaking/the-importance-of-hobbies/

January is apparently National Hobby Month, so why not try your hand at something you've always had an interest in? Now's the time!

6. Have a Duvet Day

http://www.agirlsimagination.com/2012/02/duvet-days.html

Whether you have a legitimate reason (ie. the flu!) or not, everyone deserves a Duvet Day at some point in January. A Duvet Day, for the uninitiated, is a day in which you pretty much stay in bed all day, armed with a stack of books, magazines, DVDs, snacks, etc, etc. The perfect way to while away a dreary winter's day!

7. Watch the Golden Globes

http://www.salon.com/2013/01/14/and_the_golden_globe_goes_to/

Sunday the 13th was the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards; we hope you enjoyed the 3+ hours of escapism!

8. Watch the Presidential Inauguration

http://www.aoc.gov/projects/construction-2013-inauguration-underway

Tune in to see Obama's second inauguration on the 21st - those Americans sure know how to put on a show!

9. Observe National Compliment Day 
http://www.examiner.com/slideshow/national-compliment-day-

Were you aware that there's such a thing as National Compliment Day, and that this year it's celebrated on the 24th of January? Nope, neither were we til now, but it's a holiday we can get behind. Brighten your day and others' by dishing out compliments to all you meet.

10. Celebrate Australia Day

http://magickalgraphics.com/australiaday.htm

Why the hell not?! Even if, like us, you have absolutely zero connection with the Land Down Under, you can still pay a subtle nod to the day (26th January) by watching Summer Heights High...or listening to Kylie Minogue...or eating a Vegemite sandwich. You get the idea!

Hearts & Sequins

An unspoken rule of mine (actually, scratch that, I'm pretty vocal about it), is that I have to wear something sparkly for New Years. I know, I know, it's not exactly a unique notion, but it's one I adhere to quite devotedly. However, after wearing the same glittery black-and-silver leopard-print top (it sounds so much more gruesome than it was...I think/hope) since the mid-noughties, I decided I needed to change things up a wee bit, and felt that NYE was the perfect occasion for my new sequinned collar shirt to make its debut. Since black and navy makes for a rather subdued palette, I livened things up with my new favourite lipstick - a punchy coral - and a pair of old M&S shoes that had been gathering dust in the back of my wardrobe.

Navy sequinned collar shirt (worn with bandeau underneath) - Forever 21

Black lace skirt - Jacob

Heart print tights - Glassons

Red shoes - Marks & Spencer

Lipstick - "So Chaud" by MAC