Girl It Up!

Try-this Tuesday: Deborah Lippman Top Coat

2012-01-31T09:14:00.000-05:00

I've been told in many a magazine that this is - hands down - the best top coat on the market. So why not give it a shot? I could certainly use an extra few days of life in my manicures, especially with all the non-stop hand washing I seem to do as a mom. I can't avoid doing my nails every other day at this rate! But why stop at Deborah Lippman's amazing On A Clear Day top coat when there is this brilliant Across The Universe blinged out colour too! Flecks of sparkled navy, blues and acquas! I don't know when I'd wear it, but it sure looks pretty :)

Monday's Muse: Dianna Agron from Glee at the 2012 SAG Awards

2012-01-30T09:32:00.001-05:00

Who says pink and red clash?

Not Dianna Agron at last night's SAG awards, that's for sure.

This girl wowed in a beautiful pink dress by Carolina Herrera and Jimmy Choo shoes, and the upswept hair looked elegant without being overdone.

In a sea of many neutral, white and pastel dresses last night, it was refreshing to see this vibrant pop of colour!

Friday Fetish: Akris kelly green coat

2012-01-27T09:32:00.000-05:00

Spring 2012 Ready To Wear collection by Akris.

I'm a sucker for a bold Kelly Green, what can I say?

It's such a perfect colour for spring, already making me think of bright buds on the trees turning into fresh vibrant leaves!

I'm not really sure how I'd get into this with the double zipper action, but I'm willing to give it a shot.

And as per my Friday Fetish criteria:
Love it.
Want it.
Most likely can't afford it.

Happy Friday! Here's wishing you all a fabulous weekend :)

Thrifty Thursday: A recap of current sales in the GTA!

2012-01-26T10:00:00.001-05:00

Great deals abound this weekend! Check 'em out:

Snuggle Bugz is having a 5th Anniversary Sale this weekend! Great deals on kids & baby items, as well as stuff for moms! One day only, Saturday Jan 28th. 20% off Storewide! InStore and Online. (some exceptions apply)
Today (Thursday) is the last day to trade in your old skin care products (new or empty) at The Bay for vouchers towards new ones! Pretty good deal!
Final Sale at Chapters Indigo - getting rid of all their winter merchandise. You can't beat 50% off 2012 agendas and 75% off holiday cards for next year! Tons of toys are 30% off as well! How about this adorable Bon Bon Bear at 50% for the next baby shower you go to - just $9.25!

Whatever Wednesday: wear your ipod nano like watch!

2012-01-25T09:30:00.001-05:00

Making your technology more fashionable is always a bonus if you ask me. I remember 7 or 8 years ago when every guy I knew wore their giant new blackberry front and centre on their belt clip like a badge of honour. And in those days blackberrys were almost the size of bricks. I guess at the time it went well with their pleated khakis...but I digress :)

Why not turn your iPod Nano into a cute watch with Toronto-based iWatchz straps from just $24.95 and free shipping on any orders above $49 all across North America! Just click and slide your Nano into whatever strap you fancy (the possibilities are endless with straps made of everything from stainless steel to leather to a rainbow of silicone options)! Style and function - I love it!

Try-this Tuesday: The Spray Tan in Burlington/Toronto

2012-01-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, you can get a great airbrushed spray-tan in Burlington. And yes, you can get a great airbrushed spray-tan in Toronto. Not the kind of orange Jersey-reality-show tan you cringe at when you see the cover of Us Weekly. I mean a good one. The kind that looks like you just spent a week on a sun-kissed beach in the Bahamas.

And since this is the season Canadians take the most trips to warm, sunshine-filled places like Florida and the Caribbean, I thought I'd let you know that there IS a way to show up there not looking like you haven't seen daylight for 10 years. Not only can you thus avoid blinding the locals with your paler-than-pale legs, you can instantly look 10 pounds slimmer. It's basically a proven scientific fact (and by scientific, I mean not scientific at all but still totally true) that a tan makes you look thinner and healthier. And who among us doesn't need a little extra confidence when we put on a bathing suit?

Since I'm no advocate for baking yourself from the inside out in a tanning salon for weeks on end, I thought I'd share my preferred choice whenever I head on vacation: the airbrush spray tan!

I've traditionally gotten mine at one of the few places in Toronto that I know of that provides an excellent and natural looking spray tan: The Spa at The Windsor Arms. Air brushed by a trained professional, you can get as many 'coats' as you like, having total control over how dark you get. Their air-brush tanning is $50 for face & body, and I've never been disappointed. It's also one of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels in Toronto, so it's always nice to visit.

Locally, I just found out that Blair Lancaster Spa in Burlington also offers airbrush tanning too, with very organic ingredients that increase it's safety over tanning beds even more! At $45, it's a great deal.

For me, the best part of taking a winter vacation where you're already tanned is that you don't feel compelled to sit still in a beach chair building up a nice base since you already look like you've been there a week! That always frees me up to do all the other things the island has to offer without obsessing about getting a tan the whole time. Plus it is a huge destressor if it rains! Here are some great tips on prepping for an airbrush tan & a bit more info on how it works!

For those of you heading on vacation soon, have a wonderful safe trip! I will be here typing away with frozen fingers feeling insanely jealous...at least until I hop a plane myself in April!

Monday's Muse: Liz Harrigan of Burlington

2012-01-23T09:45:00.001-05:00

I met this lovely lady - Liz Harrigan - last week while touring Burlington's Chocolate Trail, as she works at one of the stops: Mrs. B's Gifthouse.

I was immediately impressed with her because as soon as she walked in the door you could instantly feel the vibrancy level in the Store jump up a few notches! She has one of those bright personalities that radiate positive energy and fun! When I asked for her last name, she sang it for me! That pretty much says it all :)

Around her neck was a gorgeous red pendant she had gotten at a local charity event (involving her son-in-law, who is one of Burlington's handsome firefighters) and although it was a keychain when she got it, she quickly turned it into a necklace pendant, making far better use of such a stunning piece. I'm always impressed when people girl things up like that! Her jacket was very Chanel-esque (I won't tell you how little she paid for it, but let's just say she's an astute deal finder!), and you can see from her smile that she emanates warmth & friendliness.

Who needs the red carpet season when we have inspiring & original fashionistas all around us!?

Friday Fetish: The Christian Louboutin Spring Collection

2012-01-20T16:30:00.000-05:00

Don't get me started on how much they cost, because I know.

But really? Look at them! These are works of art, no doubt about it.

If I had an unlimited budget (lottery win tonight please?) and a yacht in the Mediterranean, I'd be all over this entire spring collection by Christian Louboutin .

And yes (for my flats-loving-friend Krista and those like her), there are lots of heel-free options :)

Your weekly recap of current sales in the GTA!

2012-01-20T11:57:00.002-05:00

This weekend's sales are hot!

Banana Republic: save up to 75% on already-reduced items!

Joe Fresh: save $10 when you spend $30 on active wear! Get your coupon here!

The Bay: save 15% all weekend on almost everything in the store when you use your HBC card! Details here. Quite a few exceptions though, so make sure you check those details before you go! Also just saw that today through Sunday HUE tights & leggings are all discounted 20-30% too! Great time to stock up!

And for the kids in your lives (...and the kid in YOU...)

Toys R Us: great deals until Jan 26th like 50% off select Lego sets & 25% off all sleds & toboggans (finally there is actually enough SNOW to use 'em!)

Enjoy!

Whatever Wednesday: Perfect Hostess Gifts!

2012-01-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

It's always appropriate to take a hostess gift when you're going to an event at a friend or acquaintance's home. As etiquette-expert Emily Post would tell you: "A gift for your host or hostess is a lovely way to thank them for their hospitality and is always appreciated. It doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive; simply consider the nature of the occasion and local custom when making your choice."

Here are a few ideas to help you stock your 'hostess gift' arsenal! I always keep my eye out for these items and grab a few when I see them on sale so I'm never left emptyhanded, even after a last-minute invitation!

Sweets: They won't keep forever, so don't stock up too much on any perishable goods. I love these cute jars of biscotti & chocolate-covered sweets from Mrs. B's Gifthouse in Burlington! A gorgeous gesture at around $20, and what a lovely jar for the hostess to use even once the sweets are gone!

Teas. Few homes don't love keeping a selection of teas on hand for guests or even just leisurely afternoons reading a favourite book. They're that much more appreciated when they come in great packaging like these adorable 'Bag Ladies' tins from Cupid's Cupcakes in north Burlington. How about "Bananas for Nanas" the next time you have Sunday dinner at Grandma's house?

Candles. I've yet to meet a gal who doesn't appreciate a decorative candle, especially one with a light scent! They always make a home feel warm and inviting. They can run pretty steep with designer candles, so don't go overboard. I love the selection at Fairhome in Burlington on Brant Street.

The important thing to remember is that it's not the cost - it's the thought that counts. Showing appreciation for the invitation and hospitality, even with a single flower bloom, demonstrates great manners and thoughtfulness, and ensures a repeat invitation!

Design your own belt with Brave!

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

Try This Tuesday: Brave Leather's Customizable Belts!

Since I've seen their goods close-up at Joelle's/Jeff's Guy Shop in Burlington, I feel very confident recommending Brave's new Build Your Own Belt online workshop! It's about time you could make your own custom belt design, no?

A little steep at $80-$100, but the quality is top-notch and personalization always comes at a price. At least shipping on all orders of $115 or more is always free!

There are 4 starter styles to choose from, then you get to customize the buckle, grommets, edge and stitching! Here's my creation in a fun animal print! Brave has cool jewelry and accessories too, including handbags, and many have customizable options. Always impressed by a great Canadian company like this!

Best & Worst Dressed at The 2012 Golden Globes

2012-01-16T19:36:00.004-05:00

As much as I love a red carpet, I felt there was a bit of a letdown last night in terms of awesome fashion at the 2012 Golden Globes. While everyone looked good, I didn't see too many "wow" moments. Maybe everyone is saving the "wow" for next month's Oscars. Let's hope so! Best & Worst Lists are guilty pleasures, but today I'm going to stick to my New Year's Resolution and focus just on the positive. That is why I will not point out that the adorable Michelle Williams was wearing my grandmother's curtains, or how weird it is that a newly engaged Jessica Biel celebrated her uncontrollable joy by not wearing her engagement ring?...or how the lovely Sarah Michelle Gellar looked like a child threw paint on her abundantly draped dress, or how my girlcrush Zooey Deschanel went way too bangular, or how I don't think anyone should ever wear maroon, or how man-stealer-I-have-no-female-friends-Jolie looked like an ice queen. No, I'm sorry, I'm just not going to do that kind of stuff in 2012. So...here are my top 3!

Heidi Klum.
This woman never looks bad. Ever.

Charlize Theron.
Ethereal, sexy, and classy at the same time.
What was with all the headbands last night though?
Did everyone's stylists forget to have the final conference call?

Salma Hayek.
Art deco inspired, fits perfectly, amazingly shiny hair. Love.

Monday's Muse: Ginnifer Goodwin

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

Anyone who ever gets a pixie cut is a brave lass in my books. It takes a stunning face to pull of almost no hair! Lucky for Ginnifer Goodwin, who went pixie last year, she has absolutely gorgeous features!

It's grown out a little lately, and still looks amazing, especially in this insanely girlish pink dress (by Roksanda Ilincic) that she wore to this month's People's Choice Awards.

Loved her in Mona Lisa Smile, and she's currently starring in Once Upon A Time on ABC. She rocked it as a controversial character in the series Big Love, and while she currently resides in LA, she looks like stylish New York to me!

Friday Fetish: Pippa Middleton's new handbag

2012-01-13T09:30:00.001-05:00

Pippa Middleton is truly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the world of watchable 'trend-setters'. I can't blame the media for anointing her with this fashionista title though, as I've loved pretty much every outfit I've seen her in, head to toe!

Her recent choice of handbag has me drooling, and I'm happy to say Town Shoes in Canada has been carrying it (although perhaps by the time I write this it will already be sold out nationwide...).

This week's Friday Fetish: the Modalu London Leather handbag: $235 and totally timeless! Perfect colour, perfect size, and lots of compartments for all my girlish accoutrements. Love it.

Thrifty Thursday: A recap of current sales in the GTA!

2012-01-12T08:06:00.001-05:00

Boxing Day may seem like a distant memory, but many retailers are continuing to clear out winter merchandise at dramatically reduced prices! It's a great time to score some amazing deals and stock up for the rest of winter. I know it hasn't even really snowed yet, but don't forget there are still at least 2-3 months of chilly weather ahead of us! Here's a recap of what's going on for those of you who love saving money while being stylish!

Jacob: gloves from $6.99, nail polishes $3, outerwear $69.99 + scarves $6.99!
Gap: thru Jan 15 - 40% off many winter styles + 50% off fleece for the whole family!
Over The Rainbow (Yorkville): 50% off select denim + 50% off tops, shoes, bags & jewelry!
Dealuxe.ca: 50-70% off amazing designer brands like Ella Moss, Autumn Cashmere and SMYTHE! Wow! Smythe on sale 50% off? I'm in heaven! I am fighting my new budget tooth and nail not to cave in and buy this plaid jacket above...and of course they have it in my size. The universe tests me too often!
Honey at Sherway Gardens has 40-70% off lables like Minnie Rose, Nicole Miller, Rich & Skinny, Sevel 4 All Mankind, Hudson & J Brand!
Downtown Btown faves like Joelle's and Ohh! Beautiful Things continue their winter sales as well with amazing deals on clothing, denim & accessories!
J.Crew: extra 30% off final sale items with code: WINTER

Whatever Wednesday: Walk off the Earth cover

2012-01-11T08:38:00.003-05:00

Whatever Wednesday is about sharing something new + unique that I know you'll love, and trust me, you will love this song + video! If you haven't yet watched it, you're one of the few. Burlington band Walk off the Earth (covering Australian singer Goyte's great song Somebody That I Used To Know) has already been viewed on YouTube over 10 million times! In less than 6 days! Five people playing one guitar is awesome enough, but their voices are all spectacular too. The fact they're from our little hamlet of Btown just makes it all the better. Enjoy!

Try-this Tuesday: Dior Scented Nail Polish

2012-01-10T13:17:00.000-05:00

I love this limited edition Dior nail polish in a beautiful 'waterlily' green. It inspires me to close my eyes and dream of an early spring! What a fresh, fun colour to try on newly pedicured toes and manicured fingers if you're lucky enough to soon be heading somewhere sunny on winter vacation! Imagine it with cropped white skinny jeans and a simple tee!

The rose-infused scent will undoubtedly make this one of your favourite polishes of all time. The limited edition scented series also comes in a beautiful 'forget-me-not' lilac.

Around $24 and should be available at select Bay stores!

Monday's Muse: Zooey Deschanel

2012-01-09T18:35:00.000-05:00

I have a high degree of confidence that if I were to have to pick a winner of the 2012 "Girl It Up" awards...even with the entire year still ahead of me...I would be accurate in predicting the winner as the lovely Ms. Zooey Deschanel! She really embodies girlish glee in everything she wears (plenty of colour!), everything she says, and everything she does! Her fashion choices harken back to the femininity of the 50's, and her quirky adorkableness on the hit show New Girl is simply beyond endearing, where her character is vulnerable, independent, honest and silly. Her facebook page shares personal sweet moments out on the town with friends, and she's guaranteed to be a red carpet darling in the awards season ahead of us in the coming months. She donates frequently to charity, she manages her money well (no debt!) and she's brave enough to start life again single this year, as her marriage to rocker Ben Gibbard comes to an abrupt end. There are few people I'd trade lives with, but Zooey has to be one of them. She's a no-brainer pick for my first "Monday Muse" of the year!

Girl It Up in 2012!

2012-01-08T23:40:00.000-05:00

A new year has arrived, and with it a fresh new approach to Girl It Up! This year will offer you a little more consistency in content, so I hope you like what's in store! In the year ahead you can expect each day of the week to have a special theme and focus, with the ultimate goal always being to help you style your way through life with girlish glee & savvy spending tips. Here's a preview:

Monday's Muse: a little profile of someone who inspires me with their ability to girl it up! Whether they're world famous or totally local, high profile or completely unknown, you'll be inspired by their unique style & creativity, I promise!

Try-This Tuesdays: something new and awesome that you'll simply just have to try!

Whatever Wednesdays: this day is all about having carte blanche to introduce you to something cool and girlie. Whether it's great music, travel destinations, an upcoming event or an amazing book! You never know what you'll find but I guarantee you'll love it!

Thrifty Thursday: setting you up for the best sales, discounts and deals for the weekend ahead!

Fetish Fridays: I love it, I want it, I most probably can't afford it! Here's where I'll share a little something to drool over as you head into the weekend!

Hope to see you back here each weekday throughout the year! For now, let me wish you all a very Happy New Year and remind you to take a moment for yourself each day to Girl It Up!

Make your Lulu Lemon clothes last longer!

2012-01-05T10:15:00.000-05:00

I have to share this tip with my fellow Lulu Lemon loving ladies, as I find it dramatically extends the life of my Lulu Lemon pants. I can't stand it when they get those little round fabric nubblies. It drives me crazy! Even if you follow their product care guidelines (cold wash, hang to dry, no fabric softener) I'm sorry to say that friction (darn thighs) can lead to nubblies anyway. I have found that a handy little 'clothes shaver' is extremely effective in removing nubblies, and right now you can get one at better than half price in-store at Home Hardware for just $4.97!

Topshop & Topman on Sale at The Bay this week!

2011-12-29T09:19:00.000-05:00

Boxing Week's sales continue, and today I want to point out a great British brand you can find at the Bay: TOPSHOP! With 300 Stores in the UK, collaborations with icons like Kate Moss, and a funky, eclectic style, it's definitely a brand worth checking out. So glad it crossed the pond and landed at The Bay this year! Not all locations carry this coveted brand (Yorkdale has a great assortment) but you can grab a sizable selection online so no worries! Check it out here (prices have already been marked down 50%). How great is this top for just $29? Perfect for date night!

Boxing Day in Btown is ON!

2011-12-27T12:02:00.000-05:00

Grabbed my lovely friend Leslie, headed to Sbux for the requisite morning latte, and waited in a surprisingly big (even bigger than last year!) lineup to storm the doors of Joelle's this morning at 9am. The sale there is epic with so many designer items at 50% off, like fidelity jeans, Laundry by Shelli Segal dresses, Kersh tees, and even kids stuff like Desigual and Pediped shoes were on sale! Of course that wasn't the end of the morning mayhem, as it was essential to pop into Centro too once I noticed they had ALL Christmas decorations at 50% off (and they definitely have the most gorgeous lot in all of the GTA)! Finished up at Ohh! Beautiful Things with a much-needed gold multistrand necklace for my upcoming party next weekend, and some $9 studs to match! Had to head home after that since my debit card was melting, but if you have time today, head to downtown Burlington for the boxing day sales that just started this morning! Totally worth your while! If you're busy today, don't worry - another great shop, Fairhome Interiors, won't open for 2 more days so you have until the 29th to grab some of their many Christmas items 25-50% off!

Boxing Day Deals in Burlington & Beyond

2011-12-26T00:01:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas! Hope you all had a truly wonderful day! Now here's my advice to you for December 26th - Boxing Day. If you're in the mood to shop for deals at the mall, then stay home. Why? Because most of the shops you'll be stepping into have great websites with no lineups, more inventory, the same deals & free shipping. Why put yourself through the craziness of a mall parking lot & the insanity of a checkout lineup when you can shop in your slippers from the comfort of your own home? Best Buy's Boxing Day sale has already started (last night), as has Walmart's, Old Navy, Brooks Brothers (I love their women's tailored fit non-iron dress shirts!), Gymboree and Toys R Us.

Now, when you're ready to actually head back out into the world after some quality time with your loved ones, and the mayhem of the 26th has died down a little, then I recommend you pop over to Brant Street in Burlington, where the Boxing Day sales will begin a day later on December 27th! Joelle's is offering a great selection of premium denim (men's and women's) 50% off, plus 50% off select fall/winter clothing + select kids and maternity items! Shoes and boots 25-50% off (an amazing deal), and there's a special Bonus - 1 day only most regular priced items are 10% off! Another fave of mine, Ohh! Beautiful Things will be offering 50% off all Christmas items, 40% off winter coats, 30% off clothing and a special 25% off storewide sale on the 27th and 28th only! There are lots of additional shops with amazing deals in downtown Btown who are also kicking off their Boxing Day sales on the 27th, so why not take the 26th to hibernate indoors with the fam, make some hot chocolate, watch some movies and leave your shopping for an extra day! What's the rush? Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T22:49:00.000-05:00

The best to you and your family for a wonderful Christmas!

See you bright and early on the 26th with news of local sales & events!

In the meantime, take as much time as you can to enjoy the ones you love!

Happy Holidays!

Ornaments & Decorations on sale 50% off!

2011-12-23T10:30:00.000-05:00

Holland Park Garden is one of my fave places for Christmas ornaments & decorations. They have beautiful trees in different themes + tons of sparkling ornaments, wreaths, lights, garland & wall decorations & yesterday they marked them ALL down by 50%! SO HURRY UP! I grabbed a bunch but I left a few for the rest of you :)