Allure of Simplicity

Saturday picnic

2013-05-19T20:44:00.001-04:00

Top: Tobi So Twisted sweater
Bottom: Club Monaco printed shorts (old)
Shoes: Zara patent ballet flats (old)
Bag: Juicy Couture crossbody bag
Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue gold gate bracelet

While most of the Torontonians are off enjoying their long weekend at a lakeside cottage, Terrance and I took joy in our summer favourite: picnic at Main Street Unionville. We packed along some fresh fruits, summer salads, honey greek yogurt and a bottle of Wild Vines for an afternoon under the beaming sun.

How are you spending your long weekend?

Sakura

2013-05-13T22:05:00.001-04:00

{Sakura cherry trees in High Park, Toronto}

As much as I would love to get away from Toronto, the city has quite a few attractions that are worth exploring. While the cherry blossoms were in bloom two weekends ago, Terrance and I decided to pay our first visit to High Park. We spent most of our time admiring the beautiful blush pink petals on the Sakura trees, but we would love to come back again to tour the rest of the park.

Did you get the chance to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom?

Personal Branding: Film by Karly Hill

2013-05-05T00:13:00.000-04:00

Above is a lighthearted short film produced by a graduating Fashion Communication student about postmodern personal branding that I was delighted to be a part of. The underlying idea was to explore the purpose behind fashion blogging and how it can define an individual. Each of the fashion bloggers in this video had the opportunity to share their perspectives on what we hope to achieve with the creation of our blogs and the growing commercialization of blogging.

What inspired the creation of your blog?

Timeless trench

2013-04-30T19:26:00.000-04:00

Jacket: Talula Babaton Graydon trench coat
Top: Wilfred silk camisole
Bottom: Forever 21 paisley jeans
Shoes: Zara patent ballet flats
Bag: Prada saffiano tote
Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue gold gate link bracelet

There’s arguably nothing more satisfying than macarons and a Sunday afternoon stroll. After our morning run, Terrance and I made a trip to Butter Avenue for (in my opinion) the city’s best macarons and a short walk along Yonge Street.

With more sunshine and flowers blooming, I thought that it would be the perfect time to abandon my wool coat and to instead pull out my spring trench and paisley print jeans. When it comes to purchases, I wholeheartedly believe that the only pieces that are worthy of a splurge are classic, can-be-worn-forever type of items. A trench coat definitely falls under that category because of its lasting appeal and staying power. I love that this Talula Babaton coat plays off of the classic Burberry look, but for only a portion of the price.

Swan lake

2013-04-28T22:08:00.001-04:00

Jacket: Talula Babaton Graydon Trench Coat
Scarf: BRIANNEFAYE "Kisses with Snakes" scarf

There's no better way to end off a sunlit Saturday than to stroll through a nearby park to take in the peaceful scenery and cool spring air.

Living light

2013-04-21T17:34:00.000-04:00

Jacket: Tobi trench coat
Top: Wilfred silk cami
Bottom: Charlotte Russe matte leggings
Shoes: Zara lace slingbacks
Bag: Chloe Elvire clutch

It doesn't seem like my obsession with Tobi will be dying anytime soon. I ordered this lightweight trench that could be easily thrown over top and worn as innerwear as opposed to outerwear. The subtle drapery and sleeve detailing adds a touch of modernism to this otherwise conventional piece.

Currently coveting: Pretty Ballerinas

2013-04-16T18:33:00.001-04:00

Between sky-high heels and ballet flats, I would have to say that I would prefer the latter to the former because of its classic beauty and comfort. It’s a style that has been recycled from the past and is undoubtedly here to stay. Recently, I’ve had my eyes on these delicate ballet flats from Pretty Ballerinas. Although I have yet to lay my hands on them, I can screen shop (online version of window shopping) in the meantime!

Flower power

2013-04-14T14:40:00.001-04:00

Top: Forever 21 turtleneck
Bottom: Forever 21 floral pants
Shoes: Zara lace slingbacks
Bag: eBay black quilted purse
Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue gold gate link bracelet

In effort to sway away from my neutral palette, I’ve been wearing these eye-catching floral print pants quite often. They have created quite an uproar with both approvals and displeasures from co-workers, family and friends. This was my attempt to slowly shift away from my traditional neutral head-to-toe look and opt for a more playful, but yet still feminine appearance. Although not the most flattering, I believe that they can look decent when paired properly and are undoubtedly work-appropriate so they’re a keeper.

Currently coveting: miu miu sneakers

2013-04-14T01:09:00.001-04:00

My latest obsession are these beautiful Miu Miu jeweled cap-toe sneakers which I'm falling head over heels for. They are the perfect mix of casual and elegant-chic. A girl can dream right?

Lavandula

2013-04-06T15:45:00.001-04:00

Top: F21 lavender peplum and cardigan
Bottom: H&M leggings
Shoes: Zara colourblock sandals
Bag: Prada saffiano tote
Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue gold gate link bracelet
Necklace: Stansberry Design gold stardust bead necklace

As we make the slow transition into Springtime, I have been pushing myself to wear more brights and pastels. Considering my recent black and white wardrobe palette, I wanted to freshen it up with the addition of some light pastels. After this lavender peplum purchase last spring, I have been on the hunt for more lavender pieces, which I luckily managed to find on Tobi. The city is lacking a burst of colour and there are still remnants of melting snow so I hope a pop of colour will bring in some blooms and blossoms.

Ever since my move into the real world, I have to admit that the frequency of my blog posts had been dwindling which I am incredibly apologetic for. It’s a little difficult to shoot throughout the workweek when it’s pitch dark the time I get home (which I'm sure a lot of the nine-to-five bloggers can relate to). However, with the help of daylight savings, I promise that I will make more of an effort to become an avid blogger in the approaching months. I’m extremely thankful to those who continue to show their full support by sending kindhearted e-mails and comments, or even by simply stopping by!

Turtleneck peplum

2013-03-30T12:10:00.000-04:00

Tops: Mango peplum and Forever 21 turtleneck
Bottom: J Brand 901 Jeggings in “Palace”
Bag: Prada saffiano tote
Shoes: Zara lace slingbacks
Accessories: DVF Asher belt and Saks Fifth Avenue gold link bracelet

I have been itching to wear my new peplum tops from Mango, but the weather makes it hard to step outside (or even into the office) sleeveless. Enter the turtleneck. With the black on black layering, the two create the perfect turtleneck peplum combination. The classic DVF belt and the lace slingbacks add an additional layer of femininity to the outfit. Before making my first peplum purchase, I was a little hesitant about testing out the ladylike look because of the extra fabric added to the midsection. However, I've learned overtime that the peplum can actually do wonders in helping to create a flattering hourglass silhouette.

I presume that you are all a little tired of my head-to-toe black and grey ensembles. As much as I try to shift away from darker shades, I have developed a deep attachment to black and grey pieces since last fall. It’s now my go-to shade for work, but my hope is that it will change the second it warms up. If it helps, I’ve added two lavender tops to my closet!

Spring flowers

2013-03-24T00:51:00.000-04:00

Top: Tobi Flower Power crochet top
 Bottom: J Brand jeggings
  Shoes: Zara lace slingbacks
Bag: Prada saffiano tote
  Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue gold gate link bracelet 

If you love Forever 21 and Topshop, then let me introduce you to Tobi. I have only heard of Tobi a few short weeks ago when a girlfriend shared it. Understanding that it was based out in the U.S., I knew that I would get dinged with duty charges. Regardless, I took the plunge because I couldn’t pass up the 50% discount off the initial purchase. I ordered three tops, including this beautiful lace crochet one as pictured above. Luckily, my package arrived safely without additional charges!

After yet another bed of white snow, the weekend came showing signs of spring again. I had the pleasure of attending the National Home Show & Canada Blooms with my best friend after receiving two complimentary tickets from work. Knowing little about what this event was about, we went in with low expectations. Nothing extraordinary to report, but we got in some great quality time (and as a plus, got to learn how to sew an awesome makeup brush pouch at one of the booths!).

Silhouette & leather

2013-03-11T12:47:00.000-04:00

Jacket: Danier leather jacket
Top: Wilfred ruffle blouse
Bottoms: H&M leggings
Shoes: Zara patent ballerina flats
Bag: Longchamp tote

Spring arrived a little early this year and it gave everyone a reason to put away their winter downs and pull out their favourite spring jackets. While Danier was having their winter sale, I managed to score this soft silhouette leather jacket for 50% off the regular price. I decided to dress it down a little for its first wear, but I cannot wait to wear it over my lavendar peplum top along with a pair of stiletto booties!

Adele

2013-03-09T12:18:00.000-05:00

Jacket: Club Monaco Adele parka
Top: Mango peplum top
Bottoms: Forever 21 pants
Shoes: Zara lace slingbacks
Bag: Prada saffiano tote

I never imagined that I would ever invest in a parka, given its edgy look and how feminine my personal style is. I was reluctant to even try on this Club Monaco Adele parachute parka, but once I did, I was happy to say that it is a must-have. It is very effortless, practical and quite flattering, despite its masculine and bulky fabric. I opted for a more chic and elegant look by adding a textured peplum and a pair of lace slingbacks. I can aready see myself throwing my favourite DVF Asher belt over this to make it more form-fitting.

What are your thoughts on military parkas?

Currently coveting: metallic & pinks

2013-03-06T21:07:00.002-05:00

1. J.Crew gilded brocade short
2. Mulberry floating flowers square scarf
3. Repetto metallic rosegold flats
4. J.Crew silk cami
5. Prada saffiano pouchette
6. Mulberry metallic crepe peplum top

Home sweet home

2013-02-18T15:39:00.000-05:00

Top: Club Monaco cardigan and Wilfred silk camisole
Bottoms: TNA leggings
Shoes: Zara patent ballerinas

While it's nice to be able to spend the weekend out and about, sometimes you just need some downtime at home with Friends with Benefits playing and a warm cup of Jasmine tea.

Sunday warmth

2013-02-10T21:42:00.001-05:00

Top: Zara twist knit sweater
Bottoms: J Brand jeggings
Belt: Diane Von Furstenberg Asher belt
Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue gold gate bracelet
Shoes: Aldo knee-high boots

This past weekend, Toronto received its first real snowfall of the season. In effort to stay toasty warm while photographing my blog photos, I wore my coziest sweater and danced around outside (as you can see for yourself in my second photo). Originally, I had wanted the Zara knit peplum sweater, but it seemed to have been sold out everywhere. Luckily, I was able to create my own peplum sweater by simply cinching my waist with this statement DVF belt - It's amazing what you can do with accessories!

Spring 2013 RTW: Chloé

2013-02-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

Although Spring is still months away, it doesn't hurt to bring some lightness into my blog posts after featuring black, black and more black in my last few posts. It's no surprise that I'd be blown away by this Chloé spring collection - every collection is so clean and feminine. Clare Waight Keller's creation incorporated crisp white geometric lace, crepe satin ruffles, pleated tulle and sheer embellished pieces. Above are just some of my favourites, but the entire collection is strikingly beautiful.

Blackout

2013-01-26T23:51:00.000-05:00

Jacket: Talula Babaton Bromley wool coat
Bottoms: Forever 21 leggings
Shoes: Michael Kors Carney riding boots
Scarf: H&M faux fur snood
Bracelet: Hello Berry Bella bracelet

While the weather continues to be bipolar, I decided to take advantage of the cold weather and get some wear out of this faux fur snood before the temperature rises again next week. For the night out in town with the girls, I decided to swap this coat out for my Mackage down-filled parka just to keep me warm and toasty.

Tomorrow will be a new and exciting day – I was asked by a Fashion Communication student at Ryerson University to be a part of a short documentary on personal branding and blogging in the fashion industry. I’m definitely looking forward to it, although it will be a little intimidating to be speaking in front of a video camera!

Black & ruffles

2013-01-20T00:04:00.000-05:00

Jacket: Zara blazer
Top: Club Monaco ruffled one shoulder top
Bottoms: Charlotte Russe
Shoes: Zara lace slingbacks
Bag: eBay black quilted purse
Accessories: Random silver ring and cuff

When you're running out of outfit ideas, you know you can always depend on a classic black blazer to help polish up your look. I'm also pretty excited about this new pair of lace slingbacks that I picked up from Zara. I've been on the hunt for them for the past little while and when I thought I lost all hope in finding them, it suddenly appeared. I'm pretty convinced that these were made for my closet. Although the height is a little high for me, I couldn't say no to this beauty. Lets just hope that my feet will stay perfectly in tact after half an hour in them!

Little things: pretty in lace

2013-01-19T10:14:00.001-05:00

{gorgeous Zara lace slingbacks purchased on sale} {Forever 21 delicate zigzag lace top}

Start of something wonderful

2013-01-01T16:27:00.000-05:00

Top: Forever 21 zigzag lace top
Bottoms: Forever 21 metallic brocade skirt
Shoes: Nine West nude pumps
Belt: Diane Von Furstenberg Asher belt
Ring: Asos vintage inspired cocktail ring

Happy New Year! As a way to greet the new year, I decided to add a little bit of shimmer and balloons. May 2013 bring you new hopes, dreams, aspirations and opportunities. Wishing you all a wonderful and blissful year ahead!

A Year in Review {2012}

2012-12-31T14:39:00.001-05:00

{Style outfits of 2012}

A look back on 2012 made me realize how much I have accomplished & how blessed I am to have been able to spend it with those I love. An end to a long, four-year undergrad journey filled with lasting memories only meant a start to exciting opportunities. As always, I'm extremely thankful for those of you who took the time to read my blog and to leave a warm comment. I'm looking forward for many magical things to spark in 2013 and I wish you all a happy new year! xo

Winter peplum

2012-12-30T02:23:00.002-05:00

Jacket: Forever 21 French Terry jacket
Top: Forever 21 peplum
Bottoms: H&M black jeans
Shoes: Zara booties
Bag: EBay black quilted purse
Necklace: Stansberry Design gold stardust bead necklace

The weather has been a little gloomy lately so I have been leaning towards darker (black) pieces of clothing. To lighten up the mood, I managed to work this light lavender peplum top that I picked up over the spring into my outfit. I hope the sun comes around again soon!

Little things: something new

2012-12-26T19:12:00.000-05:00

{Saks Fifth Avenue gate link bracelet; classic "stiletto Red" nail polish & top coat} {warm and comfy Mango "Paris Boutique" sweatshirt} {timeless Prada saffiano Lux tote} {very delicate Stansberry Design gold stardust bead necklace}