Girl It Up!

Have you been to Nestled by Snuggle Bugz yet?

2017-07-28T23:39:00.000-04:00

Ok, I'm way past the baby stage in my own family BUT...fortunately due to my broad circle of friends and co-workers, I still have lovely people to shower with baby-related gifts. That means I get to shop in the prettiest, most carefully and cooly curated baby boutique in this great big country of ours: Nestled by Snuggle Bugz.

I'm beyond impressed by local designer Karen Bennett's gorgeous touches from layout to lighting to shelving and all the inspiring room vignettes (I realize I'm partial since she's also my dear friend but after looking at these photos just TRY to tell me I'm wrong). The store is dreamy and calm and inviting, and full of beautiful ideas for parents-to-be.

Nestled is the sister store to Snuggle Bugz - a decade-long destination shop for all things baby - but with more of a focus on furnishings. You'll love Snuggle Bugz for things like the cutest soothers, cloth diapers, night lights, baby shoes and blankets, and you'll love Nestled for gorgeous cribs and rocking chairs and changing tables.

If you haven't yet been, I highly recommend. Nestled's first location is in Burlington, and Snuggle Bugz has 8 locations through Ontario & BC. You can also shop Snuggle Bugz online and shipping is free on orders over $49!

A modern city-inspired room vignette at Nestled

Warm tones and a subtle colour pop at Nestled

The softest pop of pink and some DIY wall art at Nestled

The cutest baby mocs at Snuggle Bugz in Burlington

Red Bag Sale at Joelle's and Jeff's Guy Shop

2017-07-25T16:20:00.001-04:00

If, like me, you were soaking up the sun in cottage country last weekend, you may think you missed out on all the Red Bag Sale deals at Joelle's and Jeff's Guy Shop but great news - you did NOT!

As you'll see in the pics below, there's a gorgeous Cupcakes & Cashmere off the shoulder floral blouse, a classic off-white peasant top from Joie (which would be a steal at 50% off and fyi I paid full price for it when I first saw and still do not regret), a simple long black tunic tee from Lilla P, and a killer men's tee from Chaser.

So bottom line: still time!

Joelle's Spring Event - May 8, 2017

2017-04-24T12:22:00.002-04:00

I know many of you love any event thrown by our resident philanthropist fashionista: Joelle Goddard-Cooling.

Well, good news! On May 8th you can join her and the team at Joelle's for a lovely evening celebrating Spring at her gorgeous store in downtown Burlington.

I cannot stress enough that tickets are limited - it's a store, not a stadium - so act fast if you're interested.

For just $20, you can sip, savour, shop and help support a great cause: the Camisole Project / Foundation for Cancer Wellness.

There will be fashion illustrations, live mannequin models, tasty food & drinks, a candy bar and more (is the shopping part obvious?!)

You'll also find trunk shows happening for amazing brands like Olive & Charley, Zadig & Voltaire, and a pop-up shop by Rebecca Minkoff (such great handbags).

Call to reserve your tickets or pop in at 457 Brant Street asap!

Burlap & Twine Boutique in Burlington

2017-02-18T09:49:00.001-05:00

I love it when a new boutique opens and this one does not disappoint!

Burlap & Twine already has a location in Hamilton, Ontario, and now downtown Burlington has welcomed their second gorgeous shop.

You'll find an array of vegan-friendly and ethically sourced bath & body goodies here like body butters, lip balm, bath oils, hand creams, body scrubs and bath bombs.

I popped in yesterday and couldn't resist their cute little "bath melts" so I picked up 3: lavender, rose, and raspberry.

As soon as I showed my kids they immediately started the bath and couldn't wait to see what happened. The raspberry did not disappoint as my main floor filled up with the subtle smell of sweet fruit while the melt fizzed away in the bathtub much to their delight. (added bonus: unexpectedly clean kids).

They're at 393 John Street in Burlington so have a peek the next time you're downtown!

Today is a gorgeous sunny day so a perfect opportunity to walk around, grab a coffee and check out some cute and unique shops!

Your new favourite faux leather pants

2017-02-07T11:38:00.003-05:00

To say I've been looking forever for a pair of faux leather pants that would fit my girlish curves is an understatement. Typically the experience of trying some on would send me into a downward spiral of thoughts of strict diets and celebrity cleanses.

Well no more.

As of today my quest is over, thanks to I ♥ Tyler Madison

Named after their rescue dogs (Tyler and Madison), this design team of 2 sisters has created a line of pull-on pants that look great across so many body types it's amazing.

Check out these new wax coated joggers (at left) for spring in military green. Slightly loose and made in Canada. Tell me you can't imagine them with a white v-neck tee, delicate gold chain, jean jacket and a classic pair of white tretorns. Most perfect weekend outfit ever!

I opted for the classic full-length waxed basic black legging. So soft and so comfortable, but also sexy enough for a night out with a killer pair of heels.

At an insanely reasonable price point (around $100) what are you waiting for?

Grab them at select retailers or locally at Joelle's in Burlington.

Non Toxic Face Paint for Halloween!

2016-10-18T14:41:00.002-04:00

This new favourite site of mine is local to Toronto and has a boutique selection of non toxic goodies for home and family that you'll absolutely love.

It's called MyNonToxicLife.ca and there's quite a team at the helm - an experienced Naturopathic Doctor and an equally experienced eCommerce Exec.

The medical brains is Dr. Sharleen Hawco, a licensed ND with a focus on Environmental Medicine and NonToxic Living. Her passion for helping families live healthy lives comes through in the products she has tested and chosen for this new site.

You'll love everything from baby clothes and accessories, cutting boards and food storage containers, to health and beauty products too.

The prices are great and shipping is free on orders above $30. I can speak from personal experience that the process is smooth and the products live up to the hype when they arrive!

I'm loving this option of non toxic face paint (just under $15) for Halloween since I need some to help turn my daughter into a bunny on the 31st. Wish me luck :)

The Best Underwear for Men Since Forever

2016-02-15T20:30:00.000-05:00

Ok, maybe these aren't the best new underwear for men since FOREVER. Because at some point between the beginning of time and fig leaves and the invention of the cotton loom, there was probably a day where the advancement of underwear was truly the most epic. But these new My Pakage undies are a close second, I promise you.

And no, I'm not spelling it wrong. It's My Pakage.

I got a pair of these for my man for Valentine's Day, and (as expected) he winced and looked at me with his scrunchy-faced "what are these newfangled underwear you want me to try" look, and I promised him that all the guys in the neighborhood are raving about these and that he should take his old-man-attitude and just try them. Which he did. And he loooooooves them.

I grabbed the "Weekday Boxer Brief" model for the record.

They are seriously made of the softest smoothest material (a moisture-absorbing, breathable, shrink-free fabric made of modal & spandex) and they have what they call a "3-dimensional pouch" to hold all the bits and pieces without the need to ever shift or adjust it all day long.

They look great, they are super stylish (tons of cool prints and colours), and now, based on first-hand testimonials from within my own home, I can also confirm that they are, indeed, the best men's underwear ever.

Grab in Burlington at Jeff's Guy Shop ($30), or locations like West 49 (your local mall if the parking lot doesn't scare you).

What's Open & Closed on Family Day 2016

2016-02-14T20:40:00.000-05:00

Firstly, I have to remind myself that this much-needed holiday is the silver lining to the not-so-long-ago political term of the very mediocre-at-best Dalton McGuinty, and we all know how essential to life it is that we no longer have to wait from New Years Day to EASTER before getting a long weekend in Ontario, right? That used to be a serious #firstworldproblem.

Secondly, there's always a lot of confusion about what is open and what is closed on Family Day, since it's not a holiday for everyone even though it's a statutory holiday (some employers can give people the choice of this day or the August Civic holiday, which is not statutory).

OPEN:
Federal government offices like the post office and passport office
Neighborhood stuff like indoor pools and skating rinks
Some malls (Eaton Centre 10-6, Vaughan Mills 10-7, Square One 11-6)
Movie Theatres
Restaurants & coffee shops

CLOSED:
City offices
Banks
Grocery Stores (eep!)
LCBO and Beer Stores (double eep!)
Other malls (ex: Mapleview in Burlington, Yorkdale in Toronto, Sherway Gardens)

MODIFIED:
Public transit most places will run on a holiday schedule (ex: TTC, Go Transit, etc...)

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TODAY?
I'm adding this section because I'm just chock-full of great ideas. No, seriously, I think you should chill. Relax. Take a breath. Read a book (to yourself, your kids, whatever) or a magazine, go for a hike and get some fresh air (bundle up), watch that movie on Netflix you haven't had time for, or test out that meal you've wanted to try from your latest cookbook (grocery stores are closed so hopefully you bought the ingredients already) and enjoy this lovely bonus day of not working! We all need it and I'm quite sure we all deserve it!

Daydreaming about Spring Shoes (on the Coldest Weekend of the Year)

2016-02-14T15:07:00.000-05:00

I feel like it's only fitting on the coldest weekend of the year to start thinking about spring shoes, because my mind just needs the escapism, ok? As much as I can't really feel my toes right now, this helps me remember that one day...months from now (shudder)...my feet will be toasty and warm and unencumbered by the black opaque tights that hide my obviously pointless pedicure.

So here's my wish list of shoes for spring. Three gorgeous pairs, three gorgeous trends.

1. Yellow. I know, this colour is not even close to being something new for me (coat, pants, skirt, etc.) but it IS new for my feet. Just imagine an LBD with yellow pumps at work. Or peeking out from below your favourite jeans/white tee/black blazer combo. Perfection, right? The ones above are Charles by Charles David and with a price tag around $100 US, I'm thinking these may be "the ones".

2. Black & White. I continue to search for the perfect black & white pump, since my polka dot Aldo ones are - well - you get what you pay for in the land of shoe shopping when it comes to comfort and walkability. Do I wish I could have afforded the Manolos of the same year? Yes, yes I do. But it was not to be. The striped ones above (Dolce & Gabbana) are way out of my present range, but the middle ones by Charles David are totally doable! Not sure if I think the graphic on the Nine West on the far right is a little too headache-inducing, but for the great price point and Nine West's tradition of surprisingly comfortable long-lasting quality, I'll definitely check them out in person.

3. Crazy Sexy Colourful. I don't have a pair of shoes that are even CLOSE to these. They're outlandish and hot and eye-catching and I can't even imagine what I would wear them with, but I think that's half the fun. This new GX line by Gwen Stefani is so affordable (all three pairs are around $100 US) and obviously really eye-catching and stylish. I can only hope they're also comfortable if and when I ever get a chance to try them on (can't find a bricks n' mortar location nearby as of yet but maybe I'll try Zappos and just ship 'em).

For now, I'll keep my Uggs on and continue to wear a scarf 99% of the time I'm in my house, but when I need to feel hopeful and sane between now and May, I'll keep dreaming about the days ahead when the feet I haven't seen in months get to come out and play again.

Spring2016 at Banana 40% off today through Monday

2016-02-11T08:27:00.001-05:00

So many beautiful spring goodies at Banana Republic right now - citrus oranges, happy pinks, soothing turquoise and bold chartreuse.

And don't get me started on the bling! The necklaces right now are to die for. Seriously.

Score some Spring 2016 and forget this bleak weather as we head into the coldest weekend so far this year - 40% off in stores and online with code BRCFIT today through February 15th! Happy Valentines Day to me!

Halloween Nails

2015-10-16T12:24:00.001-04:00

Just playing around with my nail polish collection this week as we are now only a couple of weeks away from Halloween, and I came across this cool combination that I think is Halloweeny but also pretty.

Start with 3 coats of Essie in Devil's Advocate (it's a really dark purple that looks almost black but is nicer since it has the violet undertone).

Add a coat of Revlon in 745 Pink Glaze (one of their "Transforming Effects").

Top with a clear top coat (I use Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat).

Voila! Pretty and still a bit ghoulish. Hope you have a proper costume party to wear it to!

COS is open in Toronto

2015-10-14T20:41:00.000-04:00

H&M's sister line, COS (Collection of Style) is now open on Bloor Street in Toronto in the old Tiffany location just west of Bay St. It's a gorgeous and simple facade you can't miss. Love it.

Housing a carefully curated collection of minimalist basics in knits, wools and cottons, COS is far easier to navigate than jam-packed and more-discounted H&M, and the slightly elevated price points easily seem worth it based on the quality and longevity. These are definitely pieces you'll wear season after season, and mix & match with plenty of staples you already have in your wardrobe.

You won't find many bright colours or bold prints (at least not in the current collection), but I found it a delightful change from the overwhelming volume and visuals seen in many stores these days. It was a veritable sea of blacks, greys, and muted jewel tones as far as the eye could see. A few accessories like shoes and jewelry, but mostly clothes.

An emerald green (and supersoft) dressy sweatshirt was $69. Dresses were around the $139 mark.

There was a children's section upstairs that is sure to please many a stylish downtown mom.

Worth checking out the next time you're in Yorkville.

What's Open Thanksgiving Monday 2015

2015-10-11T10:37:00.001-04:00

A little reminder of what's open and what's closed on Thanksgiving Monday. Things seem to change from year to year so I thought I'd do a little post to clarify for you:

OPEN:

SOME grocery stores. Ex: Metro (see here for list). So if you're that person who is making the potatoes and you forgot to even buy potatotes, you still have hope of actually bringing potatoes.
Cobs Bakery. I really love that they're #openallweekend because if there's one thing you really want fresh on Thanksgiving dinner it's your rolls & bread, am I right? Kudos to Cobs for making that call, and props to the staff who are workin' it.
SOME shopping malls such as Square One in Mississauga (11-6), Eaton Centre Toronto (10-6), and Vaughan Mills (10-7).
Terra gardening centres. Ex: Burlington (Hwy 5) is open 9-5 and Holland Park is open 10-5. So if you need flowers to bring to your hosts on Monday, you can get them fresh here!
If you want a really amazing cup of coffee or latte and you happen to be passing through Burlington, you can pop by my favourite non-coffee-shop-I-get-coffee-from (it's a Belgian chocolate shop) for the best coffee I've ever had (Illy, of course): Casteleyn on Brant Street. Perfect coffee plus a free delicious Belgian chocolate with every cup. They're usually closed on Sundays and holidays but the owner himself told me they're #openallweekend this holiday so YAY!

CLOSED:

LCBO & Beer Stores. Go get yo' bevvies today (Sunday) peeps. You cannot show up for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow night without some wine for your hosts ok? No no no. Even if you don't drink wine yourself. You can't be a Costanza and bring Pepsi instead. Even if you're bringing chocolate babka.
MOST grocery stores (Ex: Fortinos)
Shopping Malls such as Mapleview in Burlington, Sherway Gardens in Etobicoke, and Yorkdale in Toronto.
MOST hardware stores like Home Depot (at least across Ontario). So even thought it's a nice day out and you feel like doing some long-overdue project around the house, you won't be able to get that drill bit you lost, but maybe that's a good thing since you'll be forced to just chill instead (and that's probably long-overdue too).

Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you're all feeling as blessed and grateful as I am these days.

My New Summer Lipstick Obsessions

2015-07-26T16:06:00.002-04:00

Summer isn't really the time for high gloss lips if you ask me.

Go for Girlie by MAC #nofilter

I'm a total LipGlass addict most of the year, but when you're chilling at the beach or on a dock by the lake, anything super shiny can come off as being more than a bit overdone.

Flip flops, bathing suits, sundresses and cold beers call for something a little more casual.

The good news is, that summer also brings with it the tanned and bronzed skin that lets many of us experiment with brighter lip colours without feeling like our lips will overpower a pale complexion (as they often do). I always feel like bright lips look clown-like on me unless I have a dramatic smokey eye, three coats of mascara and a great outfit on.

But...summer brings out enough colour in my face to balance out a vibrant lipstick so after a glorious week at the cottage, I spent a little time at the MAC counter today and found exactly what I was hoping for.

Patent Polish Lip Pencil by MAC

Option #1: the Patent Polish Lip Pencil. Almost as easy to put on as lip balm, this smooths right on and has a nice finish that isn't glossy but isn't matte either. Easy to throw in your purse and apply without a mirror when you're heading from the beach to dinner with friends. I chose the colour "Go For Girlie". Sounds about right.

Cremesheen in Little Buddha

Option #2: the Little Buddha shade of their classic Cremesheen lipstick. Moisture and sheen without high gloss, and enough colour to convey that happy summer feeling we all have now that the sun has been shining for more than 7 days in a row AND we can barely remember what snow looks like.

I love the middle of summer.

Make the most of every sunny day and definitely make it a priority to slow down, savour every bite and sip you take, and enjoy as much time with family & friends as you can.

And throw on a bright lipstick now and then. You won't regret it :)

#RedBagSale starts today in Burlington

2015-07-17T08:53:00.001-04:00

Those of you who know Burlington, know that every July our favourite local retailers downtown host an event that is equal in magnitude (both in terms of excitement as well as amazing deals) to Boxing Day, and we call it...

RED BAG SALE.

As you'll see at the left, the savings are substantial and you won't want to miss out on stocking up on some stylish staples and padding your gift arsenal for the months ahead. I'd write more, but I have to go get a ton of work done so that I can pop over there on my lunch break. Did I mention how fantastic it is that my job let's me work from home 3 days a week?

So much for not shopping at all this month eh Krista? ;)

#redbagsale

#BoxingDayinJuly
@joellesclothing

Also, don't forget that tonight starting at 4pm, is the very cool MKRS MRKT at Centro Garden.

Local artisans selling textiles, food, beer and wine plus live music filling the summery air.

Our downtown is the best!

#mkrsmrkt
@centrogarden

See you there!

June8forJBH Highlights & Social Media Prize Winner!

2015-06-09T12:06:00.000-04:00

Joelle with Susan Busby

Last night Joelle's & Jeff's Guyshop held their annual Fundraiser and Fashion Show at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario.

This year, as with last year, was in support of our local hospital, Joseph Brant, in its quest to purchase a state-of-the-art digital mammography machine with biopsy attachment to help women in our community access highly accurate breast cancer test results and do so with much needed speed and efficiency. As we all know, time is often of the essence where cancer is concerned, so this is a great cause to be sure.

You can see dozens of photo and video highlights on Joelle's instagram account, or simply search your favourite social media sites (facebook, instagram, twitter) for the event hashtag: #June8forJBH and you'll find a treasure trove of visual goodies! I know Joelle will be posting tons of photos and recaps in the days and weeks to come, so be sure to follow her facebook fundraiser page for all the special deets!

I held a GirlItUp! social media draw that saw every person who shared one of Joelle's social media posts about #June8forJBH, or created their own post using that hashtag, entered to win - and from over 50 entrants, the winner is the lovely Erin Faria, a repeat fundraiser attendee who I'm thrilled to drop off my favourite beauty basics to later today! Congratulations Erin!

Centro's Oyster Bar

To say the event was a success is a giant understatement, and I heard many people in the crowd say the words "best one ever". I heartily agree.

From Centro's spectacular Oyster Bar to Turtledoves' gluten-free cheese biscuits accompanying the chowder & gumbo bar, to the enormous Agro Salad Bar (caesar, quinoa, asparagus & artichoke, and more...wow), to custom pasta and noodle bars from RBG's awesome caterers, to the Mollycakes dessert bar and all the hors d'oeuvres that were passed...it was definitely a foodie paradise. Did I mention the Peller sparkling cuvee or the Hypnotiq cocktails? Yeah. Unreal.

Agro's Salad Station

The RBC Must Have It Silent Auction was a themed masterpiece, with generous vendors from all over our community donating amazing items that nodded to the night's nautical theme. Guests bid generously, and I can't wait to hear how much money was raised. I know it's going to wow us all!

Live Auction items included a gorgeous painting from artist Vanessa Drew, a high-tech Creston Pyng Smart Home System & installation from PM Wyre, a romantic holiday for two on Turks & Caicos from The Morren Group/Remax Realty, and a Shop Sip & Dine night for 8 at Martini House/Joelle's & Jeff's Guy Shop - raising thousands and thousands of dollars for this great cause!

Co-hosts and DIY tv stars Leigh-Ann Allaire Perrault and Glen Coyle added some great levity and energy to the festivities this year from the podium. Graphics galore (from programs to signage to logos and more) by the uber talented and tireless David Whale never cease to amaze me.

Jenn Fenton's jewels, pearls galore from Bozek Orthodontics & Keith Williams, Amy Montgomery/Duncan & Wrights beautiful keepsake photos of all the guests, Brave Leather's custom-made-on-the-spot belts, and live music from The B Team made the night even more special.

And I haven't even gotten to the Fashion Show yet! Gorgeous models and stunning breast cancer "grads" rocked the runway in the hottest spring & summer fashions supported by Joelle's, Jeff's Guy Shop, Cougar Boots, Specs on Pearl, Throat Threads, Miik, Fox 40, Skeates Contracting, Centro Garden, Burlington Taxi, Agro, MacDowell Insurance Brokers, Smith's Funeral Home. Gorgeous hair & makeup was done by Studio B and Body Language, and tons of stunning photos were captured all night long by Look Local magazine.

The amount of local businesses that come out and support this event each year really astounds me. It's literally hundreds of people and organizations - and with Joelle & Jeff - along with Joelle's mentor Susan Busby - rallying the troops, I am never surprised it all comes together so perfectly.

Thanks for another wonderful evening everyone! Looking forward to hearing how much money was raised for Joseph Brant Hospital!

The Perfect White Pants for Summer?

2015-06-02T15:49:00.000-04:00

One of the most frequent things I find women are frustrated with at this time of year is finding the perfect white pants for summer.

White pants are one of those key wardrobe items that go with almost everything and are perfect for any occasion while the weather is warm & sunny, yet they're also one of the toughest things to buy because, as we all know, inherent in their "whiteness" is the fact that they're also almost always a little see-through.

Well I think I may have a great suggestion for summer 2015: the Avalon fit white jacquard textured crop from Banana Republic.

Yes, it's still going to show a little something if you want to wear a bright pink thong underneath, but the jacquard texture will do a lot of hiding and you should only ever be wearing nude underwear with white pants anyway. Not white...nude.

Jacquard is that very retro 50's / 60's style of fabric that has a bit more structure and less sheen than a regular flat fabric, and adds a bit of sophisticated detail that, in my opinion, really elevates an outfit.

It's not the right fabric for a super casual outing like a day at the beach or the zoo or an amusement park. Think more like brunch with friends, a wedding shower, or a laid back patio dinner on Friday night after work - pair them with a summery heel and a colourful tank with a bit of wrist bling. Oh, and speaking of work, these would be perfect for work. Imagine a bold blouse or tank with a fitted blazer overtop (air conditioning in an office can be so cruel - you still need layers indoors even in summer I'm afraid).

$110 on the regular, but as many of us know, Banana Republic likes to treat their customers to frequent sales of the 35-40% off variety, so check the website every few days and I promise you'll be able to get them at an even more reasonable price.

Personal Fave: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer

2015-05-27T21:17:00.001-04:00

People often ask me what my favourite moisturizer is. I'm not sure why they ask, but I'm certainly happy to tell them: it's Kiehl's.

I've tried many over the years - and since I have sensitive skin that clogs easily or breaks out into a tiny irritated rash if there are too many chemicals or perfumes, I can't just use anything.

There are a few that I like: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion (yes, the yellow one) is a solid one that I have always had good results with. When Hudson's Bay is offering those handy giveaways at the Clinique counter with little lipglosses and mascaras in a new makeup bag, it's a highly tempting offer.

I love the texture and the scent of Clarins Brightening Hydrating Day Lotion (which is also good because it has an SPF 20 built-in) but it's pretty pricey at over $60 a bottle and sometimes that just feels a bit too indulgent (although now that I'm 40, I think I will be far less frugal when it comes to taking care of my face).

Overall though, my favourite has to be Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer. It is so nourishing and yet so light and weightless at the same time, and the price point is really great at around $49 for a bottle that will last you almost 6 months (I use it twice a day and I use a lot).

No matter what you use on your face, take my advice, don't forget your neck too! It's the thinnest skin on your body and highly sensitive. Treat them both right!

Test Kitchen Restaurant on Brant Street now has a Patio!

2015-05-13T23:11:00.001-04:00

Finished Product: June

Work in Progress: May

Just had to say how excited I am to see Test Kitchen on Brant Street building a sidewalk patio for summer!

Can't wait to see the finished product!

UPDATED: Loving the finished product! I think this patio adds a much needed vitality to Brant Street and lets people enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while people-watching and socializing. Yes, it takes up a few parking spots, but what would you rather have: a great patio to enjoy lunch with friends, or 3 parking spots. That's a no brainer.

Honestly, the $10 lunch special at Test Kitchen is a total steal. The food is spectacular and the $10 includes a glass of wine (not huge, but plenty enough for lunch on a weekday). The menu changes often, but you'll never be disappointed by their creations. Great veggie burger on the regular menu too, by the way.

Drake General Store on Bloor

2015-05-04T15:39:00.000-04:00

Just noticed this today although I'm sure it's nothing new - but if you love hipster goods, Drake General Store has an outpost on the main floor of The Bay at Yonge and Bloor!

30% Off Sale at J.Crew

2015-04-20T16:21:00.001-04:00

Had to share as there are too many cute and posh items like shoes and swimwear and jewels and tissue tees to count.

30% off now through April 26th at J.Crew with online code: TIMETOSHOP - enjoy friends!

And remember for Canadian shoppers - order online and you get flat-rate shipping for $9.95 and it's duty free, so no surprise fees once it gets to your door.

#june8forjbh on sale tomorrow!!!

2015-04-18T17:47:00.001-04:00

glamjulz for Mother's Day

2015-04-11T18:34:00.001-04:00

Gorgeous bracelet, great cause, and a sure-to-please

Mother's Day gift.

What more could you ask for?

Purchase here!

Coveting: Metallic Platform Oxfords from Zara

2015-03-31T21:37:00.001-04:00

Oxfords, brogues, bluchers - whatever you want to call them, I love these!

Boyfriend jeans, white tee, silver necklace and you're set. A loose black blazer would be a great touch too. Make the outfit all about the shoes by understating everything else.

Love the contrasting white platform.

Must...have...for spring.

$99.90 CAD at Zara.com

Free shipping as always for orders over $50.

Spring & Summer Shoe Trends for 2015

2015-03-21T11:52:00.000-04:00

Spring is inevitable, even in the midst of March when the snow hasn't finished melting yet, so in the interest of staying optimistic, I present to you the Top Spring & Summer Footwear Trends for 2015.

I'll start with the shocker. Birks are back. Even J.Crew & Barney's New York are selling Birkenstocks this year. I realize they're great for...wait...actually, I don't even know how to end that sentence properly. What ARE they great for? Hiking? No. Sports? No. Work? No. Sure, they're easy to put on and kick off and they're comfy, but you can say the exact same thing about Crocs and I know how you all feel about Crocs.

Next up: Espadrilles. Classy, elegant and timeless. Canvas uppers and rope soles look chic on everybody.

The gorgeous flat options make them a comfy choice for walking around a tourist town in Italy, a theme park with the family, or your friend's back deck for a summer barbecue. Go for bright juicy colours or fabulous embellishments like those from Tory Burch (grey), Jimmy Choo (studded), Valentino (red) or Michael Kors (orange & white with a tan accent) here.

For evening, Spring 2015 brings us a ton of laser cut leather patterns. Highly feminine, and flattering as your tanned legs will blend right in throughout summer and make your legs look a mile long. They're a gorgeous look for work or evening, especially in the typical neutral hue you find them in everywhere.

Imagine them with a white sundress and neutral belt or jewelry. They'd be great with denim, and I could see a fabulous outfit coming together with cropped white jeans and a neutral taupe flowy blouse, topped off with a thin & delicate long gold necklace with an earthy pendant. These shown here are from Schutz, Aerin, and Klub Nico.

Slip On Sneakers are also back (following their 90's Birks sisters out of the time machine) and this time they've got designer labels and cool patterns.

Givenchy has a great floral. Burberry has a killer plaid.

And if those brands aren't in your budget (they sure aren't in mine), you can find similar ones from Guess or grab a vintage classic from Keds like this grey one here.

Mules: I love the comfort of a good mule, although you do need to be a bit careful what you wear them with because they add a lot of fabric and coverage to your foot - making it easy to make you look shorter, especially if you're wearing them with a cropped pant without a tapered ankle. The chunky heel you usually see with a mule further adds to a hefty look that needs to be balanced out on top.

If you're luck enough to look good in shorts (sadly, this is not the case for me), mules are a great choice. You need a nice long, lean leg to avoid these overpowering you.

Wedges are one of my favourite looks for spring & summer, especially those with a cork base.

Remember Kate Middleton's post-wedding wedges elegantly sauntering across the Buckingham Palace lawn? Wow, those were awesome. They looked exactly like these Stuart Weitzman's on the left (which are customizable on his website, by the way - both in colour, material, and heel height).

As I looked through all the magazines and websites and runway footage looking for trends for this article, I came across a little Kate Spade 'Larissa" pump that I just have to include as my new fave.

It's a very subtle gold with built-in sparkle that is a great neutral all year long. My closet has a pair of skinny ankle jeans, a white & gold sequin top, and a new white blazer that would work so well with these shoes! I'll see if I can work it into my budget in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, start making room in your closets for spring - it's really just around the corner I promise!