her waise choice { a Vancouver personal style blog | Vancouver fashion blog }

Ray of Sunshine

2013-05-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

What a week! I don't know about you, but I'm so very ready for a couple of days off. I'll be wearing this sunshiny beauty all through the weekend - here's hoping it brings weather just as bright along with it. Happy Friday!

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Wearing: 3.1 Phillip Lim bag, CURRENT/ELLIOTT jeans, J.Crew shoes

Cobalt Pops

2013-05-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

photos by Paul Milaire

Wearing: BCBGMAXAZRIA sweater, Zara leather skirt (a couple of affordable genuine leather ones here & here), J.Crew pumps, Rebecca Minkoff bag (c/o Shopbop), K.Amato necklace (c/o Max & Chloe)

Clarisonic Love & Mia 2 Giveaway

2013-05-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

Although I've long vouched for the amazing benefits of Oatmeal, I actually recently decided to change up my skincare routine. Although my former regimen had been doing wonders for soothing my skin and clearing it up, I sometimes didn't feel quite clean and "fresh" enough after washing my face for my liking. So, a couple of months ago, I jumped on the Clarisonic bandwagon and purchased a Mia after reading positive review after positive review. I wasn't sure what I'd make of it, but paired with this cleanser, I'm happy to report that I am now yet another Clarisonic fan. I only wish I had gotten it sooner!

That's why I'm very excited to be giving away a Mia 2, the newest model -- with two speeds and a travel case -- to one lucky reader! To enter, just comment on this post and tell me your main skincare concern (along with your email address)... then sign in using the form below to confirm you did so. Good luck! a Rafflecopter giveaway You can also enter to win a spa package for 4 worth $2000 here.

Romping Around

2013-05-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

I realize how cliché it sounds to say it's great to shop your closet, but rediscovering a special piece always reinforces how great it can be. This romper hadn't left the confines of my closet since 2011, when I wore it instead of a cocktail dress to a friend's birthday. Inspired by this gorgeous Club Monaco romper the other day, I pulled this forgotten beauty out and wore it in a casual look for an after work coffee date with Alex.
Wearing: Forever 21 romper (old), Zara jacket, Saint Laurent clutch, Stuart Weitzman flats (c/o, on sale!), Kay Tran sunglasses (via ShutUpILoveThis), lips Estee Lauder in Rich Red

Blue Jean Friday

2013-05-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

If there's one thing I've learned sartorially, it's that I should never swear anything off when it comes to style. Just a couple of years ago, I thought it was safe to say that I'd never be in jeans again - I found them stiff, restricting and limited. Sure enough, though, all it took was a truly comfy pair to get me hooked again. These have only gotten softer with wear and have quickly been my default for everything from running to the grocery store to dressing up with heels... and of course, wearing on casual days like today.

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I also wore the jeans recently here, here and here.

Wearing: H&M blouse (last year), Zara jacket (old), CURRENT/ELLIOTT jeans (also on sale here), ela clutch, DVF pumps (super comfortable, in nude here), House of Harlow 1960 sunnies

A Day with Harper's Bazaar

2013-05-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I received an early morning phone call as I was groggily checking my email and waking up. It took me a good minute to comprehend what was going on, but once I did I promptly jumped out of bed and did a little happy dance: Harper's Bazaar had selected me as the 20s finalist in their Fabulous at Every Age contest!

After a bit of last minute scrambling (and coming back from London a few days prior), off I went to New York, where I experienced two days of things more amazing than I could have ever imagined. From meeting the amazing editors of a magazine I've been reading for years to getting styled by the talented Roxane Danset (in a Dolce & Gabbana dress and Fendi heels, no less), from being dolled up by the Estée Lauder and Aveda teams to being chauffered to the Hearst Tower for a luncheon with the beautiful Brooke Shields, it goes without saying that I was pinching myself for the entire duration of this trip.

The grand prize winner was 50s finalist Teruko Burrell, who is just about the most radiant woman I've ever come across. And the greatest reward to come from this experience? The inspiration that I received from every single person that I met. Because I was the youngest of the group, there were so many great qualities in each finalist that I looked up to. These women, though very different, each had a strong sense of self and glowed in their own way. I also developed a new sense of determination to bring back to Vancouver thanks to the kind, innovative, driven, and genuine Bazaar editors.

The entire experience was nothing less than an absolute dream and whenever I think back to last week, I am still shocked that they chose me. Thank you, Harper's Bazaar for celebrating diversity, unconventional standards of beauty, and "female empowerment at every age".

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All photos thanks to Kristen Somody Whalen
Click here for more images of the styling process &event!

Magic in the Mix

2013-05-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

The J.Crew catalogue is always something I look forward to getting in the mail: with beautiful colours, stunning pieces, and whimsical styling, I always tear open the pages anticipating some serious visual stimulation. I especially loved this quote by Jenna Lyons in the most recent issue, which was all about mixing and matching highs and lows, clashing patterns, and things that you wouldn't think of pairing together normally. Inspired by her words, here are some of my current favourite accessories that I've been "mixing" into my outfits lately.

{Coach bracelet, Bing Bang earrings via Max & Chloe} {Thakoon by NARS nail polishes - from last year and still favourites} {K.Amato necklace via Max & Chloe, Smythson card case}

{Kay Tran Eyewear - Italian made sunglasses specially made for Asians with a small nose bridge! Also available via ShutUpILoveThis.com}

New York State of Mind

2013-05-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

I love New York. Between the energy, the people, and the unending list of things there are to explore and do, it has quickly become one of my absolute favourite cities in the world. Last week, I was excited to fly over (more about that later this week, a sneak peek is on instagram!) for the second time this year and my infatuation with the city only grew deeper. I keep telling myself that when the opportunity arises and the timing is right, I would love to live there for a couple of years. What's your favourite city?

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See all of my NYC posts from the last couple of years here.

photos by Ju

Wearing: Anine Bing top (c/o), Aritzia pants, H&M jacket, J.Crew pumps, Artessorio bag (c/o boticca)

Manchester Sunset

2013-05-10T06:30:00.000-07:00

On our last night in Manchester, we went out for a fun family style meal at Rosso with the boohoo.com execs. This was the day that jetlag really kicked in, which made me extra glad to have packed this number from French Connection. Sometimes, all you need is a dress you feel great in to perk you up and this one definitely did the job for the occasion.

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p.s. Last you'll see of this jacket for a while - promise. ;)

Wearing: French Connection dress (c/o), Zara jacket, 3.1 Phillip Lim shoes, Artessorio bag, Nixon watch

Maxed Out

2013-05-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

I'd never really been a maxi dress kind of girl, but this cobalt stunner definitely changed my mind: something about the pleats and bold graphic pattern instantly made me feel pulled together and much taller than I am. I received it late last summer and only had the chance to wear it once, so I was particularly excited to pull it out again this spring to wear with some new favourites.

Wearing: ShopSosie dress (c/o, old), Zara jacket, ela clutch, Kay Tran sunglasses (via ShutUpILoveThis.com)

The Flowers at Liberty

2013-05-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

Out of all the amazing sights I saw in London, one thing that particularly stood out to me were the flowers at Liberty London. There were obvious reasons why, like the freshness and beauty of the blooms, and the gorgeous building, for example. What I loved most about it, however, was that even though it was situated in one of London's busiest parts, something about fresh flowers at the entrance made it seem like I was entering into a quaint and beautiful little neighbourhood shop instead of one of the most prestigious department stores in London.

Manchester

2013-05-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

After spending a day and a half in London (and some bad jet lag - apologies for the tired face in these photos), we hopped on the train and took the two hour ride toward Manchester to visit the boohoo.com head offices. It was my first time in this city, and I - at the risk of sounding ignorant - honestly knew nothing about it aside from the fact that David Beckham used to play on their football team. I did know it would be beautiful, though, and I was right: although it was substantially colder than London and we didn't have much time to explore, the architecture was amazing and it was evident that the city holds a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Wearing: boohoo.com trousers (c/o), Zara jacket, Anine Bing blouse (c/o), 3.1 Phillip Lim shoes, Artessorio bag
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p.s. This Zara jacket is something that I can't seem to stop wearing... it's the only outerwear I brought with me to the UK and even now it's hard not to reach for it every morning!

Bubble

2013-05-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

As all girls who weren't blessed with long, slim legs would agree, it can be a little tricky to find a summer appropriate bottom that flatters when wearing flat shoes. Enter the bubble skirt: fun, whimsical, and never too serious, this silhouette creates enough volume up top to create the illusion of leaner legs - even without a heel. I'm officially hooked!

Wearing: YesStyle dress (c/o), Vince Camuto blouse, Salvatore Ferragamo flats, Coach bag, vintage belt
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p.s. I recently entered some of my instagram photos in the Vanity Fair Best Dressed Challenge (the winner gets featured in their September Issue!). If you're so inclined, I'd love it if you voted for my looks here. Thank you - xo!

Neons & Showroom Visiting

2013-05-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

On our second day in the UK last week, we had the opportunity to check out boohoo.com's adorable showroom, right in the heart of London's shopping district. It was definitely an experience getting to see an e-retailer's merchandise in person, and I loved all of the different textures, patterns and details in each piece. In between the visit and catching our train to Manchester, we spent some time walking along Carnaby St. and taking in the beauty of the city in warm sunshine - which was apparently, as we were told, quite rare!
Wearing: Vince Camuto blouse (c/o), BCBGMAXAZRIA sweater, Zara jacket, Aritzia pants, 3.1 Phillip Lim shoes, Artessorio bag (c/o boticca), Joe Fresh beanie

With Love from London

2013-04-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

I visited London back in 2011 and fell in love with its beautiful architecture, stylish people and rich history. As I left, I told myself that I'd be back again as soon as the opportunity arose. Well, it did, and faster than I ever thought it would: last week, I got the chance to fly out to the city for a whirlwind trip with boohoo.com. In addition to learning more about the UK's fastest growing online fashion retailer, it was a treat to also get to spend time with some favourite Canadian bloggers like Alicia, Kate and Elizabeth. Stay tuned for highlights and outfits from the trip this week!

Wearing: YesStyle blouse and skirt (c/o), Zara leather jacket, Coach crossbody, Browns loafers (similar), BOARDOFTRADECO. hat, Kay Tran sunnies (via Shut Up I Love This)

A Hint of Sparkle

2013-04-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

Colour-blocked, bejeweled and slightly sheer, I knew this blouse would become one of my favourites the moment I saw it. I love the miu miu feel it has to it - so fun and glam - and it only felt right to pair them with my new oversized square sunnies (more about these soon!). I brought it along with me to London this week (see updates here) and it's the perfect piece to add fun detail to an outfit without being too fussy.
Wearing: YesStyle blouse (c/o), T.Babaton (Aritzia) pants, 3.1 Phillip Lim shoes, ela clutch, Kay Tran sunnies (c/o Shut Up I Love This)

Lipstick Diaries

2013-04-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

{Chanel Sari d'Eau, Clinique Chubby Stick Intense in Plushest Punch}

Several years ago, I thought lipstick was just about the most disgusting make up product out there - after all, I had read that the average woman consumes 9 tubes of it in a lifetime. It's crazy how fast things can change: now, a day seldom goes by that I don't want to swipe on some product on my lips to complete a look (fine, I admittedly still aggressively rub it all off before eating). From fun, bright colours to luxurious neutrals, and of course classic red (my favourite), here are a few of my top picks!

{YSL Blond Ingenue, Estee Lauder in Hot Coraline, Aerin lip gloss in Sunset}

{Chanel Gabrielle, MAC lip pencil in Brick}

Camo & Chains

2013-04-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

Sometime around last fall, I started being drawn to more tomboyish pieces. They've been the bulk of my purchases since then and I don't think it's going to slow down anytime soon: I would have never in a million years imagined liking camouflage shorts, but I have a feeling this pair is going to be in constant rotation this summer. Paired with more feminine pieces like a peplum and fuchsia pointy pumps, they possess a slightly more polished feel that doesn't feel too far removed from my style.

p.s. So excited to be doing a bit of traveling this week and will update you on it all next week - for now, follow along in real time on instagram! xo
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photos by Paul Milaire
Wearing: ShopSosie jacket (c/o, on sale!), W118 by Walter Baker top, minimum shorts (c/o Plen+y), DVF pumps (so comfy, in nude here), Club Monaco necklace (old)

Metallic Pop

2013-04-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

As evidenced here, I am currently having a bit of a love affair with metallic silver. After admiring this ela clutch for a few months, I finally decided to pick it up last week in time for spring. I adore the fun studs and perfect size, but my favourite thing about it has to be its ability to transform an outfit and give it a slightly futuristic nod.

Wearing: Topshop sweater (similar), Aritzia pants, ela handbags clutch, 3.1 Phillip Lim shoes

Slightly Preppy

2013-04-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

Meet my new favourite sweater: super soft, with great draping, and in a pretty taupe, this is a piece that I know I'll live in for years to come. In addition to wearing it with this slightly preppy look this past weekend, I've already worn it with polished black trousers and leopard flats for work, and dressed down with camo shorts and a tee. Perhaps the way I'm most excited to wear it, though, is as a cozy layering piece for my next airplane ride. Happy Monday!

photos by Paul Milaire

Wearing: BCBGMAXAZRIA wrap, Club Monaco shirt, YesStyle scarf, CURRENT/ELLIOTT jeans, J.Crew pumps, House of Harlow 1960 sunnies, bag from local boutique

Current Obsession: Metallic Silver

2013-04-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Zara clutch & top / J.Crew pumps / J.Brand jeans (on sale) / Dior scarf / YSL nail colour / Elizabeth & James sunnies

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When it comes to jewelry, I am a gold girl through and through. Metallic accessories however, are an entirely different story. I just can't get enough of silver lately: I love how fresh it looks when paired with white, and the way it provides a statement in the chicest of ways. I recently acquired my first piece (see here), and the J.Crew pumps above (I already own and love their cobalt suede counterparts) are definitely next on the list. Are you a fan of metallic silver?

Daisy

2013-04-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

I never really took the correlation between colour and mood to heart, because it's never been something that I consciously noticed... that is, until I put on some yellow. This bright, youthful hue is the epitome of fun, and putting it on instantly perks up my mood. This Joe Fresh blouse reminds me of a yellow daisy and I knew it would be a summer staple as soon as I saw it; I first wore it layered here, but the weather warmed up just enough the other day for me to take off my trench and go bare-armed for a glorious afternoon.

Wearing: Joe Fresh top, Dahlia skirt, ALDO Rise heels (last year, but loving this pair with PREEN from this year's collab!), DKNY bag (similar), House of Harlow 1960 sunnies, J.Crew bracelet (similar), vintage belt

Shu Uemura love {giveaway}

2013-04-09T00:30:00.000-07:00

The Shu Uemura eyelash curler has been a staple in my make up bag for many years: it's the best on the market and is certainly a necessary step in my eye makeup routine. To celebrate the launch of their Canadian e-commerce site, Shu Uemura wants to give one of you $100 worth of goodies (of your choice)! To enter, simply comment on this post with a link to your favourite product. I'll contact the winner on April 30th, who will then be able to choose their products to be sent. Good luck! xo

Also, check out a few additional fun things going on for the launch here.

Dotted Mix

2013-04-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

When I picked out this skirt last month, I had imagined pairing it with patterns like stripes, or larger, more abstract prints. Wearing it with a similar dalmation print felt, for whatever reason, a little daunting at first and actually never even initially crossed my mind (I was cleaning my room and the two pieces happened to be lying next to each other on the floor). Grounded with neutral tones and coordinating blues, I like the slightly matchy-matchy vibe it provides while remaining relatively toned down. Have a great Monday!

photos by Paul Milaire

Wearing: YesStyle trench and skirt (c/o), H&M top (old), J.Crew pumps, DKNY bag, House of Harlow 1960 sunnies

Work to Play

2013-04-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wearing: J.Crew jacket and pumps, T.Babaton trousers, Rebecca Minkoff bag (c/o Shopbop), Kate Spade earrings, House of Harlow 1960 sunnies