Rachhloves

Minty Fresh - Accessories

2012-02-19T14:57:00.000-08:00

Spring 2012. The season of mint. I have been in love with all the fresh mint greens floating down the runway. Here are a few of my favourite ways to add a hint of mint to your wardrobe!

RachhWeds: Meet Bridesmaid #1 :)

2012-02-16T13:46:00.000-08:00

After getting an overwhelming number of requests to meet my bridesmaids, I have finally gotten around to interviewing one! I have a total of 5 bridesmaids + my maid of honour (I know, massive wedding party, right?!) To start off the craziness let me introduce you to...

I've been reading all of your comments and responding to as many as I can - I'm so happy you guys like the video! I had to edit down 30 minutes of solid GOLD footage into a 4 minute video. It was tough. Especially when she did the Ciara dance and sang songs from Veggie Tales. <3

Comment below if you have any questions for any of the other girls! :)

Neutral Eyes & Petal Pink Cheeks

2012-02-14T20:34:00.000-08:00

Sleet. Gray snow. Sludge. Shovelling 3 feet of packing snow off my car at 7am. Ah winter, you can be so beautiful and yet so cold-hearted. With the snow showing no signs of tapering off, I find myself drawn longingly to the warm, bright colours of Spring. A bright pink cheek and a soft berry lip is just the pick-me-up I need to get started in the morning. Look out Winter, I'm breaking out the fuchsia nail polish.

My question for you is: What is your favourite pick-me-up on a cold, dreary winters day?

2011 Skin Care Favourites!

2012-01-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

Finding the right skin care regime was an important part of my beauty routine in 2011. I wanted to find the right products to clear my stress acne, reduce oiliness and reduce any existing acne scars. I used both high-end and drugstore products, natural products and even paid a visit to my naturopath and dermatologist. Here are the products that came out as winners in 2011:

Cleanser

Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Stress Control Power Cream Cleanser, Walmart

Moisturizer

Desert Essence 100% Pure Jojoba Oil, Health Food Stores

100% Pure Mint White Tea Moisturizer, 100percentpure.com

Makeup Remover

Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Makeup Remover, Walmart

Exfoliators/Masks

Kate Somerville Anti-aging, Sensitive Skin Clinic-To-Go, katesomerville.com

100% Pure Vanilla Bean Body Scrub, 100percentpure.com

What are your all-time favourite skin care products I should know about? :)

Sapphire Blue Eyes for New Years!

2011-12-30T18:54:00.000-08:00

Introducing my lovely, super fashionable sister-in-law Lauren. :) She kindly allowed me to play with makeup on her and this is what I came up with. I hope you like it! Have a safe and wonderful New Years!

Products Used

MAC Paint Pot (Bare Study)

L'Oreal Couleur Infallible (Time Resist White)

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil (Black Bean, Slate, Milk, Electric Blue)

MAC (Deep Truth)

Annabelle Smoothie Eyshadow Pencil (Blubomb)

Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner (Black)

BH Cosmetics 88 Cool Shimmer Palette

Make Up For Ever Mascara

Get Ready With Me! - Christmas Party Hair & Makeup Tutorial

2011-12-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

I love the Christmas holidays - spending quality time with family and friends, lots of laughter, celebrating the birth of our Lord and remembering the many blessings in our lives. Here's a simple, neutral look for a fun night with friends. Merry Christmas beauties!

Products I Used

Face

Cover FX Anti-Acne Primer Gel

Dr. Brandt Pore Refiner - Hint of Tint

Laura Mercier Silk Cream Foundation

Garnier Anti-Dark Circle Roller

DermaBlend Stick Foundation

FACE Atelier Facade (Cha Cha)

Vasanti Rockies Blush

Benefit Hoola Bronzer

Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder (101 Invisible Matte)

Smashbox Artificial Light Highlighter

Eyes

MAC Paint Pot (Bare Study)

Too Faced Shadow (Heaven)

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil (Cottage Cheese)

MAC Shadow (Charcoal Brown) (Espresso)

Bobbi Brown Gel Liner (Espresso Ink)

Urban Decay Shadow (Midnight Cowboy Rides Again) (Oil Slick)

Maybelline Master Drama Liner (Black)

Shiseido Nourishing Mascara Base

L'Oreal Carbon Black Mascara

Lips

NYX Jumbo Lip Pencil (Plush Red)

Hair

Redken Spray Starch (#15)

Babybliss Pro Ceramic & Ionic Hot Rollers

Christmas Holiday Hair Ideas! Cute, Messy Buns

2011-12-16T12:25:00.000-08:00

I'm all for super glam, sophisticated hairstyles that take hours to re-create.

If someone else is doing them for me. Or if I'm watching them on YouTube in awe.

Other than that, I want something easy, cute and something that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasions. Here are two such hairstyles. I hope you enjoy!!

November Favourites - Makeup, Skincare, Music, Candles

2011-12-07T10:44:00.001-08:00

I hope you know I read every single comment on my videos (within the first 3 days or so). I saw that a few of you wanted me to put up the names of each of the products I mentioned so here you go! :)

What are you favourite products from November? Let me know in the comments!

Makeup & Skincare
1. 100% Pure Vanilla Bean Body Scrub
2. Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner - Hint of Tint
3. Desert Essence 100% Jojoba Oil (I got mine at Walmart)
4. FACE Atelier Facade - Cha Cha (I got mine at IMATS)
5. NYX Jumbo Lip Pencil - Plush Red (I got mine IMATS, but they're also available at Rexalls)

Music
1. Skrillex & Adele - Set Fire to the Rain

Nail Polish
1. Essie - Grow Stronger (Walmart)
2. Sephora by OPI - Already Famous

Candle
1. Bath & Body Works - Creamy Pumpkin

11 DIY Christmas Gift Ideas!

2011-12-03T19:44:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas time again - a time for good food, warm cocoa and spending time with loved ones. Oh, and by spending time, I mean money. I'm not sure when Christmas became all about spending money, but I a) don't have any, and b) I'm old-fashioned, I love being creative and coming up with fun gifts that reflect my relationship with the person.

So obviously, I LOVE DIY PROJECTS. I made Taryn some gorgeous over-the-top glitter heels for her birthday, and my closet is littered with glitter-ized/cut-up t-shirts from various birthdays and events. So of course, I had to make a video dedicated to giving you some ideas to creating your own budget-friendly Christmas gifts!

I promised in the video to share with you some of the recipes from one of the ideas, so here they are! If you try them, please let me know on my Facebook if you liked them!! :)

10 Days of Denim

2011-11-26T13:23:00.001-08:00

If I'm not in my lulu's (which I am most of the time, let's be honest), I am wearing some form of denim. Skinny, boyfriend, bootcut, doesn't really matter, I love those jeans you pick out of the dirty laundry basket because, well, they smell... not... TOO... dirty...

Those are a good pair of jeans right there. And you should probably do some laundry. xo

Guess jeans

Joe's Jeans

Black Friday: 20% off Tea!

2011-11-25T10:41:00.001-08:00

As you guys know, I am OBSESSED with tea! And since I know a lot of you are too - here's a Black Friday coupon for Teaopia that I've shared with freaking EVERYONE haha. I hope you guys enjoy!! :)

IMATS - Pump Up Playlist of Awesomeness

2011-11-10T19:07:00.001-08:00

I was tweeting earlier tonight saying that I was making the BEST CD (yes, CD... my i-Pod had a well-timed temper tantrum) and you guys said you wanted to see what I put on it! So here it is... a mix of new and old songs that I LOVE.

What's your favourite song right now?

STYLE CHALLENGE: The Bodycon Dress

2011-11-10T15:22:00.001-08:00

I love coming up with new outfit ideas, especially on a budget. Bodycon dresses are super trendy right now and this one is a mere $10 at Forever 21! Let me know what you think & what you want the next Style Challenge to be!

(click below to see full outfit details!)

Boots, Nine West; Black tights, Walmart; Vest, Walmart; Belt, unknown; Earrings, Forever 21

Cardigan, Forever 21; Bracelet, Tiffany's (birthday present); Necklace, Forever 21

Flats, Anne Klein; Pashmina, Gift; Hat, Aldo

Shoes, Spring; Blazer, Forever 21; Necklace, Aldo

Inspirational Fashion Bloggers

2011-11-09T09:51:00.000-08:00

I'll admit it: I'm obsessed with amazing fashion blogs. I love snuggling into the couch with a hot cup of tea and a browser full of colourful style inspirations. Here are some of my top favourites that I frequent on a daily basis:

1. Cupcakes and Cashmere
I've been reading Emily's blog for a long time now and I still look forward to her daily posts. Her style effortlessly fuses classic chic with bohemian romance, making her closet one of my most coveted of all. I love that she not only focuses on fashion, but also writes about her culinary adventures (I believe she's writing a cookbook!) and home decor tips.

2. Style Scrapbook
Andy is so adorable, passionate about fashion and super creative! Her adventures through the world of fashion take her from Paris to Milan to all of the top fashion shows and collection previews.

3. Song of Style
Amy is a recent discovery of mine and I have to say, I'm obsessed! Her style is simple, preppy and the perfect combination of trendy and classic.

Toronto IMATS 2011 - My Lust List

2011-11-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

This is my second time going to IMATS and can I just tell you how EXCITED I am?! I've been jumping around all week like a 5 year old because I'm over-the-moon about getting to see my favourite beautiful girls Stacey, Jess, Casey and Jess... and all you incredible lovelies!!! And all the makeup? Did I mention ALL.THE.MAKEUP!?

Here's a quick video talking about when we're going... plus I need your advice on what to wear! :P

Here is, as promised, my wish list on things I'd love to pick up while I'm there. If there's anything you guys think I should be looking into, please comment below!

The Lust List

Make Up For Ever

- HD Primer Microperfecting Primer
- Aqua Eyes
- Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream

Model in a Bottle

Naimie's Beauty Center
- Duo Clear Lash Adhesive

Velour Lashes

FACE atelier Cosmetics
- Ultra Foundation (Ivory)

NYX
- HD Foundation
- Jumbo Lip & Eye Pencils

Nail Moment: Gold Rush

2011-11-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

These nails speak for themselves. <3

Polish: Revlon Copperglaze Platinum sprinkled with Sally Girl Sparkle Effects

Before 'I Do': Pay It Forward...

2011-10-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

As part of the wedding planning process (or actually my life in general..) I have been spending countless hours on Google researching vendors. I really don't want to waste my time visiting a bridal shop or a florist if they're known for awful products or customer service. Which is why I rely so heavily on sites that offer customer reviews. So when Bridetastic approached me and asked me to complete a few reviews for them, there was no question in my mind that I would help. It's my duty to pay it forward to all those new brides out there and help them out with their wedding planning process.

They're just getting started but they do have some reviews up now (I have a few up myself!). It's a really easy, beautiful website and I know I can count on you girls to help them make it a success.

Plus if you DO help... I do have a special prize for you...

The chance to win a SPA DAY IN TORONTO!

That's right, a day at the beautiful Sweetgrass Spa for four that includes a lunch at their gorgeous restaurant George, manicures and access to their ozonated pool, hot tub and amazing sauna. I took my butt down to Toronto and went on a tour of their facilities and they are amazing! I'm so jealous of whoever gets to win this! :)

CONTEST RULES

STEP 1: Join http://www.Bridetastic.ca and write THREE reviews on THREE vendors you've had some interaction with (must be more than "great!" or "awful!")

STEP 2: Do one of the following (or both for better chances of winning!)

a) Follow Bridetastic, Rachhloves and Sweetgrass Spa on FACEBOOK and write the following: [your username] entered @Rachhloves Toronto Spa Day GIVEAWAY at @sweetgrassspa thanks to @Bridetastic_CA! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TsMUEp6mWA

RachhLoves Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachhloves/142996299055898
Bridetastic Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bridetastic.ca
Sweetgrass Spa Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SweetgrassSpaAtVerity?sk=app_392248091048

and/or

b) Follow Bridetastic, Rachhloves and Sweetgrass Spa on TWITTER and tweet the following: [your username] entered @Rachhloves Toronto Spa Day GIVEAWAY at @sweetgrassspa thanks to @Bridetastic_CA! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TsMUEp6mWA

RachhLoves Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/RachhLoves
Bridetastic Twitter: http://twitter.com/Bridetastic_CA
Sweetgrass Spa Twitter: http://twitter.com/sweetgrassspa

STEP 3: Tell family and friends to tweet/facebook your username + message above for better chances of winning!

NOTE: This is a womens only spa and you must be 18+ years old to enter. Winner will be announced December 13th XO

Nail Moment: Bold Fuchsia

2011-10-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

If you follow me on Twitter, you know I was on the hunt for the perfect fuchsia nail polish for the last little while, for a good price. It's a pretty trendy colour so I really didn't want to spend $15 on it. Enter Wet N' Wild Fuchsia-rama. Love it with this neutral outfit of the day.

Note: Clearly, as I spent $2 on it, it started chipping after 3 days. Not a big deal but when you're used to Essie polishes last 2 weeks, you become spoiled.

OOTD: Casual Neutrals

2011-10-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

Outfit: Boots (Steve Madden); Cargo jeans (Blank NYC); T Shirt (Stylemint); Bag (a small shop in Italy); Feather earrings (Forever 21)

If you like the shirt you can grab it here for 10% off with the coupon code RLOVES :)

The Next Style Guide on a Budget is...

2011-10-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have been getting SO many compliments on my budget-wise style guide for Gossip Girl stars Serena and Blair. I worked so hard on this and spent many hours editing and playing around with effects so it means the world to me that you guys liked it!

Since I had a BLAST making it, I would love to do another one for you guys! So I've outlined a few TV shows who's style I think would be fun to replicate. Vote and let me know what you want to see next! :)

Casual Stripes & Ruby Red Slippers

2011-10-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

Just one of those days when I wanted to be comfortable but cute at the same time. Was running errands all day with Chris getting DIY stuff together for the wedding!

Gossip Girl Style Guide (On A Budget)

2011-10-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

First there was Sex and the City and now there is Gossip Girl. The beautiful Upper East Side fashionistas inspire us every week with gorgeous tailored Chanel jackets, Valentino gowns and Miu Miu pumps.

However, I can't even afford the sole of a Miu Miu heel, let alone an entire designer wardrobe. So here's my take on budget friendly style inspired by Serena and Blair.

Serena's Style

Outfit #1: Sequin Jacket (Forever 21); Cream Tank Top (Forever 21); Dark Skinny Jeans (Joe's Jeans); Nude Pumps (Spring Shoes)

Outfit #2: Black Sequin Shirt (Forever 21); Shorts (Forever 21); Grey Heels (Costa Blanca X); Jewelry (H&M)

Outfit #3: Jacket (Dynamite); Ruffled shirt (Forever 21); White skinny jeans (Wetseal); Pumps (Olsenboye); Earrings (gift from grandparents from Germany years ago)

Blair's Style

Outfit #1: Lace shirt (Guess); Skirt (Forever 21); Red heels; Bag (Guess)

Outfit #2: Ruffle-shouldered shirt (H&M); Grey pencil skirt (Windsor Store); Grey heels (Costa Blanca X)

Peacoat (Forever 21)

Outfit #3: Lace Jacket (Forever 21); Skirt (Forever 21); Ballet Flats ()

What do you think? How would you capture their signature style?

And be sure to check out my friend Judy's take on Blair's gorgeous waves!

Which Pretty Little Liar Character's Style Is Your Favourite?

2011-10-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to choose...

Who's Style is Your Favourite?

Blues & Ballerina Buns

2011-10-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

Outfit: Silk Shirt - Century 21; Capris - Guess; Scarf - Forever 21; Flats - Kenneth Cole; Bag - Aldo?

Nail Polish Collection & Top 3 Polishes

2011-10-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

I feel like a freaking queen when I have my nails painted. My whole outlook on life is brighter, I stand taller, I'm bubbly and confident. Er wait - was that the wine I was drinking?

I kid (I actually hate wine) but seriously, I loved have my nails painted. I always do it myself too (I already pay $5-$11 for a bottle of nail polish... why on EARTH would I pay $40 for someone paint 1 coat on for me?!) its a nice way to relax and unwind.

So, without further adieu, I present to you... my polish collection.

I also promised you my top 3 favourite polishes of my collection, did you get guess right? :)

1. Revlon ColorStay; Top Coat (discontinued) - so disappointed to hear this top coat is off the market. It is absolutely INCREDIBLE - my polish will not chip with this on top. My nails growing too long is what ends up ruining the manicure!

2. Essie; Clambake - Obsessed with this colour. I actually want this as the exact accent colour for our wedding. A beautiful, creamy red-orange with excellent colour pay-off.

3. Essie; Buy Me a Cameo - Such a sophisticated shade that is very soft and pretty. Described as a "frosted, satin mocha". Gorgeous.