the knack

French Velvet - Incredible Tops & Wraps That Will Revolutionize Your Look & Wardrobe

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:20:00 +0000

I am currently giving my wardrobe the big overhaul and what I've come to realize is that for a stylin' wardrobe you need three things:

1. simple pieces that can work in a number of ways

2. stylish pieces that stand out on their own

3. quality pieces that will stand up to constant wear

French Velvet is all of this and so much more.

One of the most essential and versatile pieces you can have is their Traveling Cashmere Wrap from Scotland (pictured above). Whether you're boarding a plane or heading off to a waterside restaurant for dinner, this gorgeous super-soft and sensuous wrap is tres chic and will keep you warm when the evening cools.

It's incredibly lightweight and folds up small enough to fit into your purse or tote, so you can bring it with you without feeling bogged down.

You wear poncho style over the head with the seam running down the right hand shoulder, making it easy to put it on and take it off with ease.

The comfy, cozy feel that the 100% pure cashmere brings is completely addictive and the cut is so stylish and flattering, you'll be tempted to wear it with just about everything.

I got mine in Violet, which really pops against my usual drab wardrobe, and I am genuinely in love.

One of the best and most unique accessories I've ever found are the Handmade Luxury Collars. Instead of just relying on dowdy scarves like you have for the past decades (I bet you can count a handful of woman you know that are almost never seen without a scarf), you've got to get yourself on of these absolute musts. Similar to a statement necklace, these stunning collars slip on and fasten with a single button, allowing you to completely change your look without having to add on another layer like a blazer or cardigan.

Each collar is handmade and individually designed in Great Britain, and there are a great many styles and colours to choose from.

What I love about these is that they dramatically dress up everything from a simple tee or tank to all your plain dresses that nowlook runway worthy. The Betty Shawl Collar in Black and White is so classy, and the Cynthia Collar in Pale Blue Check and Francoise Collar in Cream and Black add tremendous office chic to your wardrobe. And should your clothes be in need of a shock of colour (nothing is more flattering than colour around your face), the Darcey Collar in Hot Pink or Petrol will make you shine.

My Winnie Collar in Mauve & Grey light tweed is a fashion game-changer that takes my clothes up ten notches. Oh, and it's miraculously machine-washable too. Oh. My. God.

Forget the scarves and necklaces, it's all about the breathtaking Handmade Luxury Collars.

And if you're in need of a sweater that is not only comfortable, but incredibly flattering, it doesn't get much better than the Silk Sweater from JW Paris. It's also a money saver because it's cool in summer and warm in winter, thus working for you year round, so go ahead and get them in different colours - there are so many!

What I especially love about it is it's as cozy as wearing pajamas and yet, the criss-cross front and pulled across tummy gives you a perfect hourglass silhouette, making you look like you've just stepped off the red carpet at Cannes.

Made of 80% silk, 15% polyamide and 5% spandex, guaranteed you'll be reached for this sweater over the rest of your collection.

French Velvet really does have it all.

Shop now.

Sabi - Simple & Stylish Storage Solutions for Your Vitamins

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:42:00 +0000

My fella and I take vitamins and supplements every day. I have worked on various systems over the years to keep all of the various bottles together and organized, but I've never been able to streamline it.

Until I found the wondrous Sabi. Then life became so much more organized. Which we both know means happier, less stressful, etc.

The truly awe-inspiring designs of the Vivacity line allow you to keep your meds and vitamins stored properly whether you're at home or on the road.

The Shake easy pill dispenser means that for those crazy mornings when you're still shimmying into your clothes while heading out the door and you've only got one free hand, you can still take your vitamins. And for those nights that you've got dinner finishing on the stove and the dryer buzzer is going, you can still shake out a vitamin.

Of course, if your life is less chaotic than this one (let's just be honest - these scenarios are ones I live just about every day), who wouldn't rather pop the top and shake out their pills out of a sleek, modern, stylish bottle than have to unscrew an unsightly one from the pharmacy?

It actually makes taking your vitamins and pills a whole lot more fun.

The Folio is the George Clooney of pill organizers. A handsome, dark cover flips open to reveal a BPA-free plastic container that stores two weeks of pills or a week, if you take some morning and night. A secure elastic band keeps them from ever falling out and scattering across the floor, and rounded sections makes it easy to retrieve your vitamins, even if you're on a cramped plane.

If vitamins, supplements or medication is a part of your life, your life will be so much better with Sabi in hand/ bag/luggage.

Shop Sabi now.

Mad Soap Company - Handmade with Care

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:51:00 +0000

I am always on the hunt for fun - and let's not forget useful - gifts for friends and family and I've found it all in Mad Soap Company.

Not only is everything handmade with great care, they've got fantastic flavours and scents that are a helluva lot more interesting that than prepackaged basket - snore! - you end up getting every year.

For example, their Chai Tea Lip Balm is the bomb. Made with all-natural ingredients (candelilla wax, shea butter, cocoa butter, olive oil, vitamin E, chai tea flavor oil and natural sweetener), it goes on super smooth and silky - and makes your lips that way too. It's not only long-lasting, it's one of the best lip balms I've ever tried (I chucked out the one I'd just got at the drugstore in favour for this l'il beauty). Add to that, it tastes and smells like chai tea.

Sigh.

And while I'm at it, I've got to tell you about their handmade soaps too. Insanely addictive and completely luxurious, yet at such affordable prices, this might just become your favourite one-stop-shop for the next while.

The scalloped-edged Charcoal Soap (pictured above) has such an invigorating, fresh minty scent, you'll find yourself leaping out of bed in the morning to wash up. And removing all those toxins will make your skin luminous again. All with this one simple product.

If caffeine is your vice, you'll love the Coffee Oatmeal Soap. This gentle exfoliator is made up of ingredients you know and love (distilled water, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil, avocado oil, sodium hydroxide, Fair Trade organic coffee, oatmeal, coffee essential oil, brown sugar, allspice and nutmeg), without any of the jittery side effects. And yes, this one's scent is insanely sumptuous too.

Shop Mad Soap Company now and get fantastic all-natural, handmade skincare that you can afford for yourself and all your friends.

I love you, Mad Soap!

OPI Soft Shades 2013 - Oz The Great and Powerful Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:52:00 +0000

OPI’s Soft Shades 2013 collection is based on Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful and offers a heady mix of tried-and-true classics as well as more dazzling looks.

These six new soft crème and warm glitter shades are made to wear on their own or layer for completely up-to-the-moment manicures:

- Lights of Emerald City features large white and smaller iridescent squares that are perfect for glam-ing up any shade.

- Don't Burst My Bubble is a creamy soft pink that is extremely pretty and feminine and unbelievably flattering. The formula on this one is gorgeous - no ridges, just smooth sailing.

- Why Monkeys Fly is so opulent with gold hexagons and shimmery pearlesque glitter, you'll feel like you're covered in rich jewels.

- Glints of Glinda, a surprisingly sophisticated beige-y shade, is so wearable, chances are you'll go through this bottle well before the rest.

- Which is Witch? I'm calling this one rainbow-in-a-bottle, though I did consider disco-ball-in-a-bottle too. 'Nuff said.

- I Theodora You looks bubblegum pink in the bottle, but is pretty in pink from start to finish.

- What Wizardy Is This? is a liquid sand that goes on so smooth and is such a delicious, rich texture and colour, you will be shocked at how often you wear it.

Shop OPI’s Soft Shades 2013 collection now.

Gifts with Style - Luxe, Stylish Gifts At Prices You Can Afford

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 13:18:00 +0000

Is it just me or is gift giving getting harder to do? It seems like everyone's got much of what they want and what they're still lusting after - boats, cars, vacations - you can't possibly give them.

However, birthdays and anniversaries still come and go and you've got to get something fabulous, but what?

Lucky for us, Gifts with Style has something for everyone. And they've made it extremely easy, thanks to their fantastic Shop By Occasion feature.

If you're looking for a stand-out home gift, this Bugatti Chrome Vera Kettle is simply stunning. And if you're shopping for an eco warrior, check out the uber-chic Bamboo Lexon Titanium Clock Radio.

For those who want a little eye candy, this Ostrowski Design Modern Small Ring is fascinating. And if you are as obsessed with moving to New York as I am, you're going to need this and this.

To keep your tech stylin', this Blue Luxury Leather iPad Case is a must and for those who like to be surround by luxurous aromas, a Vintage Amber Boujies Scented Candle oughtta do it.

Me, I'm easy to shop for - I love everything Lexon. And Gifts with Style is festooned with the brand's gorgeous designs.

A great buy is the Lexon Take Time! by Mathieu Lehanneur (pictured above). This funky silicone rubber watch is available in 10 colours and thanks to it's inventive loop style, you can wear it a number of different ways - on your wrist, around a bag, from your belt loop, even hanging from your water bottle while you're at the gym!

Most people have a stodgy work watch, but how many have a fun, vibrant watch that stands out? I'm rockin' the red one and absolutely love it - it adds a pop of colour to my otherwise dreary wardrobe.

Shopping for friends and family (and hey, get yourself something while you're at it) just got a whole lot easier, thanks to the amazing Gifts with Style.

Aventuress High Performace Sunscreen Wipes - Protection on the Go

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:11:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but I don't like applying sunscreen after I've applied lotion and makeup. It feels like I'm undoing all that work I just put into getting ready to go out.

I know, I know - you've got to wear sunscreen these days. But do I really want to be toting around a big bottle of it when my bag is already filled to the brim (it's ridiculous what I've got in here...)?

That's why I am head-over-heels in love with Adventuress High Performance Sunscreen Wipes SPF 30. These individually wrapped sunscreens are perfect for not only stashing in your purse, but amazing for travel - no more leaky bottles or having to transfer big bottles into travel-size ones! I'm so thankful to leave behind greasy sunscreen hands too.

See, these thick pads come prepped with a perfect dose of sun protection - just swipe on using the little finger glove (the lotion is on the other side of the pad, keeping your hands clean and oil-free) and toss away. It's so easy to reapply while you're out and about now that you don't have to worry about getting your skin and hands all slick with greasy lotion.

And the scent is pretty and light so you can go about your day without reeking like a coconut.

With 24 per box, you've got enough for daily walks around town as well as weekend excursions and trips abroad.

So whether you're looking for a convenient and portable sunscreen to take to the pool or beach or like me, just want to keep your hands clean and your skin protected from the harsh rays, get Adventuress High Performance Sunscreen Wipes SPF 30.

Whistler Naturals Vegan Skincare - Pamper Your Skin

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:13:00 +0000

Now that winter seems safely behind us, isn't it time you left that winter skin behind?

You know what I mean - that dry, flaky, bumpy skin that's been swathed in thick sweaters, scratchy wool pants and puffy coats for the last six months.

Leave that chemical-laden stuff from the drugstore on the shelf and get yourself Whistler Naturals Vegan Skincare.

This amazing line uses bio-active floral waters, oils, extracts & butters. What that means is that these ingredients do more than just cleanse, replenish and renew. And all thankfully without the use of animal products, artificial parfums or colours, parabens, propylene glycol, phthalates, GMO's, sulphates, petroleum products and formaldehyde.

Which means your skin is getting exfoliated, moisturized, nourished, firmed and stimulated, each and every time you envelop yourself in Whistler Naturals products.

A good place to start is to slough off that winter exterior with Vanilla Silk Sugar Body Scrub. This gentle, but effective exfoliator is rich with emollients like avocado, coconut, organic sunflower & meadowfoam (vitamin E) oils. This combined with real raw plantain sugar gets rid of that rough top layer and reveals soft, smooth, supple skin underneath.

To further nourish your skin, slather yourself with Naked Apricot Lily Body Butter. The delicate fragrance is perfect for this time of year. And the light, completely non-greasy formula absorbs instantly, so go ahead and throw your clothes on and rush out the door, if you need to - your skin is in good hands now. And thanks to organic shea butter, aloe vera, organic sunflower and meadowfoam oils, skin softening oats, natural cocoa and soy butter, your skin is insanely soft and touchable, so maybe tonight's the night to cozy up on the couch...

And because you have been busy doing dishes, laundry, cleaning the house, paying bills (it's crazy how dry paper makes your hands!), your hands need a little pampering too. Rose Geranium Hand & Body Lotion uses Eco-cert approved preservatives and emulsifiers, natural cocoa butter, rose flower, chamomile, white willow and calendula extracts, hydrolyzed oat flour, and sunflower oil to keep your hands satiny all day long. Even despite all those dishes and hand-washing.

So shop Whistler Naturals now and get back your sexy smooth, supple skin.

p.s. you get free samples with every order.

N.Y.J.O. New York Joe's Onions - Bringing NYC's Corner Dogs to Your Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 01:58:00 +0000

There are some things that you just can't duplicate. I can't make a sausage roll as good as the British shop just north of me, and I've never been able to swing that delicate veal sauce I had at a stone inn in Montreal. And it's often the city specific things like Chicago-style pizza or New York hot dogs, topped with onions that you wish you could recreate at home.

But wait, Joe Cachia, creator of N.Y.J.O - New York Joe's Onions - has made it so you can grill up hot dogs at any time and with the addition of his saucy, slightly smoky, tangy onions, feel like you're at the corner of 55th Street and Madison Avenue at a moment's notice.

It's a close-to-impossible feat to recreate such a specific memory. After all, it's not just the taste that you need to get bang on, but it needs to bring you back to feeling the press of hundreds of yellow cabs, the thick heat rising up from the concrete and that over stimulation that only NYC can bring on.

But Joe nails it with his N.Y.J.O's. The texture is bang-on - soft, but not mushy - and how he was able to add tomatoes but not have them overpower the onions is a mystery. That's extremely hard to do and do well. I like that they're a little messy too, because when you're eating a hot dog on the corner, there's no way you're not getting a little juice running down your arm. For me, that's part of the fun.

All Joe asks is that you warm the onions first before adding them to your dog. And really, that's not too much, especially since he's gone to the trouble of creating such a delicacy. It's take just a few moments and it's absolutely worth it. And freakin' affordable too.

Besides, it's the least you can do - Joe has just saved you a plane ticket and the cost of a hotel room.

Buy N.Y.J.O New York Joe's Onions now.

Corkcicle - Perfect Wine Every Time

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 14:49:00 +0000

I am lucky that being a restaurant critic and food writer means I get to try a lot of wines. I'm no expert, mind you, but I've been able to quickly discern what I like and what I don't. I've also been fortunate to learn a lot about storing and serving wine and you'd be surprised at how often red wines are served too warm.

The Corkcicle is the perfect drinking companion. If you serve your reds just a few degrees cooler, you'll be able to taste a significant difference. And if you love whites, you can leave the bottle out and keep it chilled without having to go to the trouble of either traipsing back and forth to the fridge or hauling out your ice bucket.

It's incredibly easy to use - simply keep the icicle-shaped chiller in your freezer. When you're ready to use, pour just a smidge out for reds, and for whites pour a full glass. Insert it into the bottle. For reds, you can take it out after 15 minutes. And for whites, leave it in - it will keep your wine chilled up to an hour long.

I even conducted a taste test with friends and family one night. I opened a bottle of delicious Cabernet and we tried a small taste of it served room temperature and another after using the Corkcicle. While the warm wine was fine, it was clear that the chilled was superior - the notes of spice were bolder, yet it also made it incredibly smooth.

I don't spend a lot on wine and I don't have a wine cellar - or even a collection, for that matter. But that doesn't mean that I don't appreciate good wine. And the Corkcicle makes it so much better.

In fact, now that I have it, I might just start a little wine collection...

Shop Corkcicle now.

Hugrz Boot Wraps & Covers - Your Boots Just Got a Lot More Luxe

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:27:00 +0000

The calendar says it's spring, but where I live, the snow continues to fall. And though I've been itching to wear all of the new spring colours (corals, emeralds, pale pinks and deep blues), I've been mired in head-to-toe puffy coats and boots.

I bought new tall leather boots this year because my old ones just couldn't take another winter. Already, they are completely spent. Despite treating them, then a month later polishing them, they still look gross.

My short boots are doing all right, but I'm so tired of wearing them. I feel like I've been donning nothing else since November.

Le sigh.

So I went looking for a change. I didn't know how it was going to happen, just that I needed it to.

Thank god for Hugrz Boot Wraps & Covers.

These luxe, stylish accessories give new life/look to your boots and allow you to change up your style at a moment's notice. You simply slip them on over your existing boots and bam - you've got a whole new pair to enjoy for the rest of the season.

Hugrz are completely adaptable, so go ahead and pull 'em up or scrunch 'em down, wrap them with suede lacing (criss cross them like you would lacing up your ice skates) or simple band across the top.

Almost like a leg warmer worn over your boot, you not only get added style, but warmth.

I've been rockin' the Grooved Black Mink set, that although looks like real fur, is actually made of synthetic. Thick and insanely posh (you really will be convinced they're fur), these boot covers make me feel like I'm off to the Aspen Film Festival to hang out with Kurt, Goldie and the gang. How fitting as they're from the Aspen Collection, which includes 11 other styles to choose from. Be sure to also check out the 6 classics in the Bennington Collection and the 3 animal prints found in the Santa Fe Collection.

And that's the genius of this line - allowing you to rock your style, no matter whether you lean toward the punk rocker look or you want something more casual to accentuate your beat up Uggs.

Shop Hugrz Boot Wraps & Covers now and give new life to your old boots.

LaCoupe Orgnx NEW Coconut & Macadamia Oil Collection - De-Winterize Your Mane

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:21:00 +0000

LaCoupe is by far one of the best haircare lines I've ever tried. The Argan Oil Collection completely transformed both my hair and my Mom's. Two people could not have more disparate hair, but it gave us the hair of our life - like having the best hair day every single day (We also swooned over the Intense Repair Collection).

So naturally when I heard about LaCoupe Orgnx NEW Coconut & Macadamia Oil Collection, all you could see was someone jumping up and down with excitement.

This new line is all about quenching your hair with moisture and hydration (you can practically hear your hair breathing a sigh of relief - "Ahhhh!"), using the natural oils of organic coconut and macadamia nut oils along with cocoa seed butter, panthenol and olive oil. So, no matter how ravaged your poor locks, there is salvation.

LaCoupe Orgnx Coconut & Macadamia Shampoo is surprisingly light and yet penetrates your hair with moisture like nobody's business. LaCoupe orgnx Coconut & Macadamia Conditioner also doesn't weigh your hair down, yet manages to infuse your locks with softness and shine.

While your hair will look better than it has in ~~weeks~~ ~~months~~ years, you'll also enjoy the beachy tropical, suntanning lotion scent that fills the bathroom just as much.

And to get help rid you of your "winter hair," I recommend LaCoupe orgnx Coconut & Macadamia Oil Intensive Repair Treatment. This quick conditioning takes only 3-5 minutes and only needs to be done weekly at the most. That's not asking too much, is it? Just a few minutes of your time and wham - you get a whole new head a' hair. Your hair gets immensely nourished thanks to

organic coconut and macadamia nut oils unite with cocoa seed butter, panthenol and olive oils and you don't have to do a damn thing except put it on and rinse it off. Pretty sweet if you ask me.

It's obvious I have a thing for LaCoupe Orgnx NEW Coconut & Macadamia Oil Collection. I think you will too.

Shop now.

Ellis Faas Mascara - All Eyes On You

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:32:00 +0000

I first discovered Ellis Faas makeup years ago and have been a devotee ever since.

There is a richness and creaminess in Ellis Faas products that you don't find anywhere else, giving you this immensely lush appearance that is both futuristic and slightly retro all at once.

That luxe look continues with Ellis Eyes Mascara. The bullet pen that is a signature of Ellis Faas products allows you a ton of control so that you can apply as many layers as you like, with a precise expert hand. The brush comes to a point, just like the cap of the applicator, so you can get to the teeniest lashes in the corners while still sweeping each lash from base to tip.

But it's probably the actual application that you'll notice first. It just goes on so smoothly, without bumps or clumps along the way. Coating your lashes with a rich cream that looks quite natural with just one layer and extremely dramatic with multiple layers, you can customize your look to your day. I do one or two coats for everyday wear and then I double up for events, nights out and other special occasions. How fantastic to be able to get both looks outta one gorgeous container.

Of course you'll want to have the black on hand, but I highly recommend getting the brown too. Not normally a shade I'd feel comfortable in, Ellis Faas always makes what you don't think will work on you look like the colour you were born to wear. And wow do they make my green eyes pop!

This ain't no ordinary mascara. It's practically an accessory the way it changes how you look.

Shop Ellis Faas Mascara now.

Triumph & Disaster - Men's Skincare Products That Will Find Their Way Onto Your Shelf

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:45:00 +0000

As much as I love the floral scents of women's skincare products, sometimes I crave a cologne that reeks of fir and wood and leather and sweat.

Triumph & Disaster's Shearer's Soap is as manly as it gets and while my fella enjoyed this soap from New Zealand, I was the one reaping the rewards as I couldn't get enough of his manly scent. So while his skin was exfoliated by poppy seeds and softened by glycerin, I was deeply inhaling the exotic scent that smells of books, an old leather coat and being out on the deck at the cottage on a cold morning. It's completely exhilarating and such a fantastic change from my usual orchid, bergamot-scented perfumes.

Which is why it could often be found on my shelf in the shower instead of his.

And then I went and took his Gameface Moisturizer (pictured above) too.

What a bitch.

I couldn't help myself. Though it's made for a man's rough mug, I love how it absorbed straight away and then left my skin feeling soothed, soft and fresh. That's due to all the fabulous natural ingredients used such as jojoba extract, horopito oil, ponga fern and vitamin E. Hmm, you don't see that oil and fern in girl's products, do you? I think T&D are really onto something here. Of course scent came into it again. The completely exhilarating scent, very similar to the soap but much softer, stayed with me the whole day, seemingly bringing the outdoors in and making me feel a little more alive than usual.

So if my man's skin isn't as soft as usual, it's my fault. I went and stole his moisturizer. But when it's Triumph & Disaster, what's a girl to do?

Shop now.

Tea Sparrow - Sommolier Approved Teas Delivered to Your Door

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:57:00 +0000

Did you know that it's been scientifically proven that a cuppa tea actually calms your nerves?

A good cup of tea is one of the most relaxing, rejuvenating, restoring things you can do for yourself, so why are you still drinking that cheap no name stuff from the supermarket?

The difference between a great cup of tea and a regular cup for me, is the quality of flavour and often there is a great divide in the refreshment factor too. That's why I recommend Tea Sparrow. These loose-leaf teas are some of the best I've ever tried.

This uber-convenient and insanely affordable subscription service is an easy way to expand your knowledge of teas over a short period of time. Upon subscribing, you'll begin receiving your monthly tea box of 4 carefully selected teas by tea sommoliers from around the world.

When I first came across the site, I was sure it was too pricey for me - I mean, come on, this is quite an exclusive service so there's no way that someone on my budget could afford it. Then I saw the price and it's incredible - $20/mo (shipping and tax included) for 4 premium loose leaf teas. Aren't you already paying about $5 a box at the grocery store? Well, Tea Sparrow teas are so beyond your average boxed teas, you'll have a hard time going back.

First of all they are made with premium, often organic, fair trade certified ingredients and even more than that, I found whole berries in my teas - talk about nutritious!

The Tea Sparrow Teas that I received completely rocked my world:

- Take the Blueberry Rooibos, for example. I don't like blueberries and pretty much go out of my way to avoid them. But this tea was so delicious, I had multiple cups every night for a week. Throughout the days of that week, I looked forward to coming home and having that tea. Made with organic fair trade certified rooibos, organic blueberries, organic schizandra berries, organic fair trade certified hibiscus and natural flavours of blueberry and strawberry, it was like having a cocktail every night, but without the dreaded effects of alcohol!

- Similar to the blueberry, Gojiberry Superfruit is one of the most delectable teas I've ever tried. With whole goji berries mixed in with green tea, lemongrass and pomegranate seeds, I felt like I could conquer the world with this power blend at hand.

- For those nights that I needed a little TLC, I enveloped myself in Camomile Citrus. The blend of orange peels, chamomile flowers, rosehip peels, lemongrass, lemon myrtle, hibiscus, spearmint, natural flavors and orange petals was a delightful way to relax after a long day of meetings and deadlines.

- Earl Grey tea is one of those that people either enjoy or not. I find it's often due to the smokiness of it. But Tea Sparrow's Earl Grey Supreme has the added bonus of natural essential bergamot oil, which lends a perfumey essence that is both intriguing and delightful.

As you can see, having your own tea sommolier is pretty freakin' awesome.

Subscribe to Tea Sparrow now.

SurprisesByMail.com - Sweet Treats Sent via Post

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:51:00 +0000

I am probably one of the few people left in this world who has a drawer filled with stationery and enjoys sending things the old-fashioned way, via post. I send cards and packages to friends around the globe throughout the year . I know it would be cheaper and faster to get in touch with email, but it's not the same. With email, there's not the same element of surprise and you miss out on joy of unwrapping something.

How amazing then, to discover SurprisesByMail.com that provides a similar service, sending a gift of a candy surprise and a personalized message.

Owners Nina Meranus and Andy Sheeks have one simple goal: "Send some joy and make someone smile."

When I received my SurprisesByMail package (pictured above) I was thrilled! It was amazing to have message made just got me and so much fun not knowing what it was!

The sender gets to choose the sweets (chocolates, nuts, cookies, chocolate-covered cookies - oh my! fudge, pretzels, peanut brittle and chocolate covered espresso beans), add a personal message or choose a pre-written selection and SurprisesByMail does the rest.

So instead of going to the mall, selecting the gift and then having to come home, write a card, wrap it, package it up and then line up at the post office to send it, SurprisesByMail takes care of all the time-consuming, energy-draining steps for you.

Order online and your package will arrive in about 3-5 days later. Suddenly, anniversaries, birthdays and other occasions are a breeze to manage. You can even give them the names and dates you need to commemorate and celebrate and they'll send out your treats at the appropriate time. Do this once a year and you'll never have to worry about forgetting a special day or event again.

I absolutely loved receiving Toffee Squares out of the blue. These insanely delicious - and completely addictive - milk almond butter toffee bites were a divine little treat that I kept in my desk drawer. And each time I had one, I was reminded of the kind gesture sent my way via post. It brightened my day each and every time.

Don't you want to extend that feeling to someone you care about?

Shop SurprisesByMail.com now and make everyone's day a little sweeter.

Hard Candy's CC Crème - A Flawless Look With Just One Product

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 13:08:00 +0000

Hard Candy offers affordable, yet insanely effective cosmetics. It remains one of my favourite lines to date.

I love how you can get the latest looks without having to fork over your paycheck. I find they are often ahead of the crowd in terms of trends, colours and textures too.

For example, I bet you're still on BB creams. Haven't you heard? It's all about the CC now!

Hard Candy CC Correction Crème is a multi-tasking wonder that means you don't have to dole out for concealer, primer, illuminator or SPF for the next long while, because this single product does it all.

CC stands for colour correcting, so if you're like me and have an uneven complexion, help is here. Unlike foundation that simply covers over your lovely mug, this crème is formulated with "light optic pearls that neutralize the undertones of your skin," so it simply evens you out instead of masking everything. It goes the extra distance and erases your imperfections, brightens your skin and protects it with broad spectrum SPF 15, so you get the glow without the sun damage.

Not only does it work like a fiend to make you look resplendent, it goes on beautifully. I find that a little goes a long way and the result is a fine finish that's not oily or powdery - just natural. There are 4 shades to choose from - Fair, Light, Medium and Dark (I tried Light) - so you can be sure to get something that doesn't leave a harsh line along your jaw.

And it's only $8 at Walmart, so forget about blowing your budget on cosmetics and shop now.

Lubique Skins - Inexpensive, Stylish Stickers for Your iPhone & iPad

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:18:00 +0000

I change my desktop wallpaper every week and my bulletin board and my purse every month or so. I just crave a different look all the time.

Canada's own Lubique Skins offers this same personalized styling for your iPhone and iPad at prices so cheap, you can afford to get a bunch of them and swap your look as many times as you like.

I adore the vast array of looks available for your iPhone- a nautical theme is so right now, and who doesn't want to be surrounded by love? Polka dots are all the rage, whatever the colour, and the ace of spades never goes out of style.

Don't forget to accessorize your iPad while you're at it. My favourites are the fierce zebra stripes and the cityscape at night (pictured above).

What makes Lubique stand out from the rest is not just their amazingly low prices and fantastic designs, but how easy they are to apply - say buh-bye to having to spend the afternoon smoothing out bubbles.

Show off your immense style with Lubique Skins. Again and again.

Di Potter Paper Table Collection - Toast to a Brighter, More Stylish Room

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:23:00 +0000

Lighting makes all the difference to the mood of your home. Too bright and things can appear garish and harsh. Too dim and it can seem a little sleepy.

But having multiple lamps in every room doesn't work - first of all, you've got to have enough outlets, which let's face it, most places doesn't have anyway, and secondly, there's all that extra electricity to pay for.

Then there's candles, which aren't always the look you want and besides, do you really want to have to constantly stock up on them? Isn't it hard enough just trying to keep the pantry full?

That's why Di Potter Translucent Wine Glass Shades are the perfect solution - they give you extra light that you can have in an instant, but can change or take away when you need to. And all you need are some flameless tealights and some wine glasses.

That's the genius part of it - you've got the base parts on hand at home, and Di Potter furnishes you with the shades. And they take up so little room, so you can stash them in places that wouldn't normally be able to house a whole lamp.

And what gorgeous shades they are. Go ahead and pick the colours that go with your decor - each package contains 6 plain and patterned shades that will perk up any room. The patterns are right on trend, so you can add a bit of texture without having to wallpaper or invest in an expensive rug. I tried Golden Yellow Nantucket and they brightened up the room without overtaking it - perfect.

To top it all off, these spectacular shades store flat, so you can keep them in with your napkins and glasses without having to give up prime real estate. And with fresh ones always on hand, you can change the look and feel of the room whenever you like.

Let's see your lamps do all that.

Shop Di Potter Translucent Wine Glass Shades now.

Moroccanoil Shampoo & Conditioner - Drench Your Hair in Moisture

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 15:02:00 +0000

I first tried Moroccanoil back in 2008 and it changed my hair completely. Moroccanoil is in fact, so powerful, that it's one of the hair products that I have continued to use thoroughout the years. And that's something, considering how many products I get to test annually.

So of course I was over the moon to discover their latest addition to their haircare line - Shampoo & Conditioner. I tried their Hydration Collection, which is perfect for my straw-like mane.

The first thing you'll notice is that their famous scent - that delicious, rich and woodsy, yet clean fragrance - is ever present. It's just one of the many reasons to love this line.

The second thing you'll notice is that up until now, your hair has been parched and lackluster. Because now that you're using Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner, your hair has been completely transformed. Drenched with moisture, thanks to a hefty dose of nutrient-rich ingredients such as argan oil, vitamin A and red algae, your hair looks Hollywood healthy. You know the kind I mean - ridiculously shiny and manageable. Like you pay people hundreds of dollars to tend to your tresses. But thankfully for you and your pocketbook, you get these results all in the comfort of your own home.

These formulas are color-safe and sulfate, phosphate and paraben free and manage to revive your hair no matter how much you colour/flat-iron/blow dry.

Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner aren't just hair products. They perform miracles.

Earth Balance Coconut & Peanut Spreads - You'll Never Want Plain Peanut Butter Again

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:19:00 +0000

It seems that everyone loves peanut butter. Me? I'm still not convinced. Either their too dry or oily, too rich or not rich enough.

But recently, one brand changed my mind - Earth Balance Coconut & Peanut Spreads.

Available in both Crunchy and Creamy, these all-natural peanut butters get taken up a notch, thanks to the addition of organic extra virgin coconut oil.

Before we even get to the taste, let me just say how nice it is not to have to stir a peanut spread for once. I like to dive right in, especially during hurried mornings on the way to meetings and I can with these ones.

Also I really appreciate the all-natural ingredients. It's made from 81% roasted peanuts, with the addition of organic extra virgin coconut oil, agave syrup, palm fruit oil, salt and natural flavour. Talk about a protein-packed snack!

You'll also be pleased to know that it's also vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO project verified and contains 0g of trans fat.

So the taste - it's so rapturous, that after I tried it for the first time, I found I was thinking about it, wondering when the next chance I'd get to have it. It's completely addictive and this is from someone that doesn't care for peanut butter!

I think it's so enticing because the coconut adds an extra level of depth to the spread, making it kind of sensuous and exotic. So don't just spread it on toast - add it to your stir-fries, smoothies, soups and stews. You'll be stunned by how it elevates your food.

What are you waiting for? Get yourself Earth Balance Coconut & Peanut Spreads now!

MOR - Decadent Bath & Body Products That You Can Afford

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:47:00 +0000

When you go on vacation, don't you get excited by the hotel's bath and body products? Isn't it an added luxury that puts a little spring in your step?

Now you can have that feeling all the time, thanks to MOR's incredible bath and body products.

Some companies do scents in a way that always feels decadent, and MOR is definitely one of them. Their rich fragrances are so evocative, I've often caught myself smiling away after using one of their items.

I am head over heels for MOR Honey Nectar Body Butter. The scent is so subtle, but the notes of honey, vanilla and almonds waft gently around you, never too sweet or cloying. This most feminine scent is one I'd happily ensconce myself in for the rest of my days.

And this is no ordinary body butter either. The light whipped creme texture is a dream to put on (like slipping under satin sheets). It sinks into your skin right away and with ingredients like vitamins A & C, allantoin, glycerin, olive and grapeseed oils and shea butter, your skin stays soft, smooth and moisturized all day.

It's one of the best and most effective body products I've ever used. In fact, a co-worker grazed my arm walking past the other day and she stopped, shocked at how supple it was. The credit goes to my wonderful, miraculous, completely indulgent-feeling, yet inexpensive MOR Honey Nectar Body Butter.

To keep your skin that soft, I recommend the NEW MOR Black Currant Iris Salt & Sugar Body Scrub. It's the best way to slough off the last bits of winter and renew your skin for the upcoming capri and tee weather. The gentle exfoliation nourishes your skin with vitamins A, C & E, avocado and jojoba oils and glycerin so your dermis is tenderly cared for, in addition to being rejuvenated. And of course the scent is divine - dark, plumy and foral with distinct rose and wood notes - and incredibly sexy.

To give you that luxury hotel feel whether you're at home on or the road, get MOR Little Luxuries Belladonna tinned soaps. The collectable tin makes it easy to store and transport, and the soap is exquisite - triple milled and vegetable based, it gives great lather. And of course it will make your house smell like a garden in springtime. Swoon.

It's not just the products themselves that feel indulgent - the packing is heavenly. So go ahead and gift yourself and all your friends with MOR.

This is one luxury that you can afford. And then some.

Beauty for Real - Illuminating Cosmetics

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:38:00 +0000

I am all for adding some glimmer and glow to my look. My skin is so flat and blah on its own, so I'm always on the hunt for products that will make look radiant. Fake it 'til you make it, right?

But I don't want to look like a Vegas showgirl either, so trying to find makeup that will illuminate my features without glitter and sparkles can be difficult.

Beauty For Real offers the best glow that also happens to look quite natural.

Get Glowing! Cheek Tint and Luminizer (pictured above) is one of the most revolutionary products I've ever used. I really suck at applying blush and tint. I just can never get it to look right. Until now. Thanks to this light silky tint, it gives me the most control of any cheek colour. It never stripes or blots, but instead, builds a innate rosiness that looks makeup artist professional.

Maybe that's due to their new patented ingredient, Luminera with a diamond core complex that diffuses light so that your lines and spots seem to poof - just disappear. Oh, and it's done with fab antioxidant, anti-aging ingredients like vitamin E and pomegranate and grapeseed extracts.

The multi-leveled compact contains the tint on the bottom and the luminizer on top, which go on like a dream - so satiny soft, yet it sets like a powder. I sweep the luminizer across my brow and at the top of my cheekbones to give my face much needed structure, but it's a subtle difference. One that gives me a more Photoshop finish than my usual mug.

This is one of those products that once you find, you hold onto for dear life.

I was really impressed with their Light Up Nail Polish too. Their new Rose shade is gorgeous and feminine without being too ballerina-y (a hard balance for pinks, I find). And boy does it last - I wore it for a week without any chips, despite my deep clean of the house from top to bottom. The formula is smooth and creamy, yet not too thick. It's formaldehyde, toluene and DBP free and there's a button on top that turns on a LED light should you be doing your nails on a dim morning.

Another keeper is the Light Up Lip Gloss. The richness of it is so decadent, yet it's not heavy or gloppy or sticky in the least. It plumps your lips without any stinging or tingling sensastions and it's packed with green tea and grapeseed extracts, aloe vera, avocado oil and marine collagen, so your lips stay hydrated long after application.

I love that my lips are highlighted by this gloss, but their not slick or look like patent leather. It's an enhancement, but there's nothing cartoony about it, like many glosses these days.

If you notice that I look a little better, a little brighter, a little more put together than usual, it's because of Beauty for Real.

So go and get yourself some now and look like you, only better.

Keysocks - Show Off Bare Feet Without Compromising Warmth

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:44:00 +0000

Keysocks solve an age old problem - keeping your feet warm, yet showing a little skin.

These unique socks wrap around your heel and toes, leaving the top of your foot exposed. The rest of the rock is pulled up below your knee just like regular socks. So you can rock any pair of pants and be warm, yet look as though you're not wearing anything at all.

This also means that you no longer have to wear your flats or dress shoes without socks anymore (ew) or envelop your tootsies in those crazy stretchy toe/foot covers that never stay on. And you'll be protected from blisters and sweat (Coolmax moisturizer in the fabric stops all that), so no more having to sacrifice to wear your favourite shoes (peek in your closet - don't you see a bunch of shoes that used to be hard to wear? yeah, that's about to change).

And the ultimate bonus? The blend of 80% polyester, 18% nylon and 2% lycra feels like cashmere, so don't be surprised if you start favouring them over your regular socks. And they come in various styles and colours, so even if people can't see 'em, you can still rock your style and look.

Keysocks are perfect for this time of year, when the seasons are changing and it's starting to warm up - you can look like you've got bare feet, but still be comfy and cozy, no matter what the temperature.

Shelby McKee has created a product that perhaps you didn't think you needed, but now, you won't be able to live without. Just watch how many more pairs of shoes and pants you wear on a regular basis now, thanks to Keysocks.

Shop Keysocks now.

MIXT Studio Reusable Wine Bags - Message In a Bottle

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 13:13:00 +0000

Do you remember in the old days there were these manilla 9 x 12 envelopes that were used to transport documents between office departments? You'd get the docket and you'd sign in a box in a column right on the envelope . Then when you wanted to send someone something, you'd reuse that same envelope, addressing it to the correct person, who would then have to sign for it upon receipt? Considering how basic it was, it was a pretty solid system.

MIXT Studio Reusable Wine Bags work in much the same way, except they're waaaay prettier and will outlast any envelope (they're printed on Tyvek, which is resistant to water and untearable, yet still recyclable!). And they are centered around of my favourite things, wine.

The gorgeous prints outdo any regular paper bag and in fact are so attractive, you might just want to keep a couple for yourself to use (they make wonderful homes for ballet flats, office supplies and a much more attractive way to store your olive oil and balsamic bottles).

These handmade bags come complete with a thick cloth ribbon and 5 tags in a row. You fill out the first one with to, from, event and date, and then the person who receives it, fills it out when they next gift a bottle of wine (can I just say how much I love when someone brings me a bottle of wine?). Since there are 5 tags, the last person will be able to see who has received it when and for what. It's like a message in a bottle that continues on throughout five events.

When the design and idea are this great, you'll want to pass it on.

Get your own MIXT Studio Reusable Wine Bags and while you're at it, check out their stunning gift wrap, cards and gift bands. I've fallen hard for the seahorse wall hangings and am going to ask for one of their incredible reversible totes for my birthday. If I'm lucky, it'll come with a bottle or two of wine in it...

Kanex DoubleUp - Powering Your Gadgets Has Never Been Easier

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Dickison) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 15:19:00 +0000

All of the gadgets we've got going on in the house these days is a little bit crazy.

My fella and I each have a smart phone and laptops and tablets and I've got a digital camera and well, the wires snaking their way throughout the house is insane.

And what if I want to charge my phone and my camera or my phone and my tablet? Or what if we both want to charge out phones? It's been during these last few months that we've realized how few outlets we have and we've been forced to swap batteries or borrow each other's various technologies because of how complicated - and let's face it, ridiculous - the charging situation is in our house.

That's why I am so grateful for Kanex's new DoubleUp. It allows us to use one outlet to charge 2 devices.

This mighty handsome, sleek** dual USB charging station simplifies everything and allows you to get on with your day without having to switch plugs or give up charging one device over another.

Offering two full-power 2.1amp USB charging ports means that your tablets, phones will charge quickly and efficiently. And instead of constantly overcharging your devices, the DoubleUp let's you know when each device is fully charged, thanks to a separate LED indicator for each phone/tablet.

And it works with both my Apple and Android products, so finally all of my technologies can live happily together. That's a first!

It' seems like such a small thing, a charger, but my DoubleUp makes such a difference in my entire day and my life, that now I can't imagine being without it.

Get your own Kanex DoubleUp Dual USB Charger now.

** Something tells me Chez Larsson would love the white one.