Realistic Chic

The Obligatory Wedding Photo Post - Part 4

2012-01-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

The best saved for last, here is part 4 of 4 in my wedding photo series: The Reception!

Alright. Here we go. So the dinner started a little late because family photos took longer than expected...but I hear this is perfectly normal, so no big deal. Anyhow, here is what the reception décor looked like:

Immediately following our grand entrance, we did a short Indian cultural ceremony in which Khaleel's mom blessed us, then we finished with a particular part called "The Saapatia Ceremony" where two small clay pots were put on the floor in front of us and we were up on a stool, and on a countdown, we were supposed to jump off and break them with our feet. Each contains lentils, silver, sugar and turmeric representing the bounty of nature, wealth, sweetness and harmony and good health. It is believed that the first to break the saapatia will rule the household. While I suspect Khaleel did hold back about a second and let me jump first, I still didn't break mine. He cracked his right away, but I wasn't letting mine get away with it. I stomped and stomped...eventually Khaleel says to me "You want me to do it?" UGH.

This photo by Ashley Lena Photography:

Everybody else thought it was hilarious...

Then it was dinner time! This photo by Ashley Lena Photography:

And cupcake time - our cupcakes with our little rainy day bride and groom cake-topper (I painted the groom brown :p)

And our first dance:

This photo by Ashley Lena Photography:

Par-tay time!

I'd say that's it, but really, that's just all for now. We actually did a special wedding party shoot the next morning down in Gastown. Hopefully I get those photos soon, and when I do, I'll post them here!

All photos taken by my private photographer unless otherwise stated. You can see more of Ashley's Photography here.

The Obligatory Wedding Photo Post - Part 3

2012-01-04T23:20:00.000-08:00

So here is part 3 of 4 in my wedding photo series: Getting Ready & Ceremony

Having nothing to do officially for the Friday was so great because after the gong-show that was the Thursday festivities, it was nice to have a breather before the big plunge. Or a calm before the storm, as I called it at the time.

Getting up that morning was a strange experience. It felt like a birthday when you're a little kid, with everyone making a big fuss over you. I came out of my room because I heard my girls (a few stayed the night) rustling around and trying to be quiet...which, in a 700-square foot apartment is like trying to sneak past a starving pride of lions over a whoopee cushion floor. Yeah. Imagine that. So anyhow, they told me to go back to bed, and that one of them was just going out to grab Starbucks for the lot of us. So that was nice. When I finally did get up, there was Starbucks, a fruit platter, pain de chocolat, and a bottle of champagne chilling in my ice bucket. It was a great start to the day!

My makeup artist, Jayna, who is basically the greatest thing to happen to makeup since SPF was built into foundation, showed up right on time with her assistant - and the beautifying commenced. We girls had a great time lounging, being pampered, drinking mimosas, and chatting. We found out later that the boys had been fussing over their car decorations for the better part of the day, out in the cold, with a McDonald's breakfast, and apparently Khaleel lost a cufflink. Not that it's a competition, but...we win. Here are some shots of the getting ready action:

The black silk wraps were part of the girls' bridal gifts from me (they also got cream coloured pashmina scarves, crystal snowflake brooches, and black leather gloves)

The fabulous Jayna, working her magic:

The boys who showed up to pick up the rings, because my husband-to-be FORGOT them the night before...good times were had by that:

Then we made the trip to the venue, which I will admit, was the hardest part for me since I was freaking out over the thought of walking down the aisle in front of hundreds of people. Trust me, it's a scary concept. I started to feel better however, once inside the bridal room:

Dad seeing my dress for the first time:

My Cinderella moment!

This photo by Ashley Lena Photography:

Woot! 8 years!

I loved the Christmas decorations wrapped around the banisters!

This photo by Ashley Lena Photography:

So that was the first half of the big day.

Stay tuned for part 4 of 4 in my wedding photo series - a look at the latter half of the day, The Reception!

All photos taken by my private photographer unless otherwise stated. You can see more of Ashley's Photography here.

The Obligatory Wedding Photo Post - Part 2

2012-01-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

Keeping true to my word, here is part 2 of 4 in my wedding photo series: The Mandvo Party

For this day, which was already overloaded with our rehearsal at 11am, our rehearsal lunch at 1pm, and getting ready with about 13 other people, mother nature decided to grant me my wish for snow. Except that I had wanted the snow on like...the Friday. Needless to say, at least 40 people weren't able to make it to the Mandvo, but we got over it, as the ceremonies were lovely and the dancing was a blast. Also, my girls and I looked damn hot in our saris and fresh mehndi from the previous night.

For makeup/sari-wrapping, we crashed Khaleel's uncle's house who lives close by (not the same uncle from the mehndi night) as his Aunt is a pro who should really win an award for her mad skills.

Me getting mah makeup on:

Angela helping my mum get her makeup on:

Sari wrapping:

My parents, creeping on me:

My girls:

My boys:

Then it was on to the Banquet Hall which took us longer than expected due to that snow (which I secretly loved anyhow). We took some family photos while waiting for my grand entrance.

My MoH and I:

Quite the brood:

3/5 of my bridal girls:

Et moi:

My stock in sisters doubled overnight:

Finally, I am told to stand under a trousseau (basically an Indian shawl) held up by selected girls from Khaleel's family, and they usher me in to the hall, where I am welcomed into his family by him and his parents:

So then we sit in a row of chairs and have a succession of family come and congratulate us and offer blessings by tossing rice on us, dabbing saffron on our foreheads, and feeding us sweets (my mum got really emotional at this for some reason):

Then the dancing commenced - a circle dance called Rasra that is too much fun for its own good. Basically, it's some clapping, some snapping, and some turning. And you do it in a circle:

So that was Thursday.

Stay tuned for part 3 of 4 in my wedding photo series - a look at Saturday, The Wedding Ceremony!

All photos taken by the incomparable Ashley Lena Photography!

The Obligatory Wedding Photo Post - Part 1

2012-01-02T19:04:00.000-08:00

While I blunder through a complete overhaul of my life right now - with the wedding over, I threw myself immediately into nesting/house purging mode on top of looking for a career job - I can at least share with you all some of the best shots of my wedding before soon bombarding you with photo tours of my home, ramblings about the upcoming Hobbit movie (December 14th is already on the calendar and will be a SACRED day in this house), cooing over how my new favourite shows/blogs/miscellaneous are altering my existence, and what Khaleel and I are planning for 2012 (hint: going to a place I've always wanted to go).

Without further ado, I give you part 1 of 4: The Mehndi Night

For a little introduction, let me describe what I expected versus what I actually got. First, Khaleel's lovely aunt and uncle hosted this night for us, three days before our wedding and, as it so happened, on our 8 year anniversary. I had initially thought there would be some food, some family, and a lot of painting, with people wearing comfy clothes like leggings and tshirts and jeans...so they wouldn't worry about the henna staining anything. I was so naive. I got a call from one of my bridesmaids, who was at the house just moments before I arrived, asking "uh, is it the house with the tented walkway and valet parking?"

Yep. Valets. Lighted tented walkways reminiscent of a red carpet gala. Servers for the food and drinks who had to wend their way through throngs of brown people ("some family" translated into over 100 people...easily). A buffet on the back porch that was also tented/heated. All this for about 5 hours of some hands getting painted. Really? If it were me, I would have ordered in some fried chicken, some sushi platters, and opened a box or two of wine, and maybe, if I was feeling ambitious, a single lit candle. I guess I should have known, though. This is how my new family rolls.

So we go in. The decorations were most thoughtful. Vanilla twinkle lights had been wrapped around the staircase banisters with brightly coloured saris (clearly pulled from my aunt's closet) weaved in between. There were candles abound and silk pillows and other saris doubling as tablecloths in every room. A mattress had been put down in the sitting room in front of the fireplace, which was adorned with other Indian textiles and freshly fallen maple leaves. It was very well done and very chic. I also loved that the decor was, from what I could tell, free. The food was what you'd expect: samosas, amli, biryani, rice pilaf, butter chicken, etc. It looked and smelled great. I soon learned, however, just how difficult it would be for me to eat on the account of no hands.

(I can't show too many photos since I don't have permission from some people to post their face here. So we make do with an abundance of my mug. Enjoy.)

Mine being started:

My girls were so sweet and served me food all night since I was basically handicapped and couldn't move my extremities:

My left hand - complete:

My groom who was relegated to the doorway until my mehndi was finished (some sort of tradition..though we got lazy and broke it pretty quick):

Then I was moved to the bridal foot station:

The finished product (complete with pink sparkles just for the photos!)

My bridesmaid Ashley's hand:

My maid of honour, Angela getting hers done (you may recognize her from my What's On posts)

In all, my mehndi alone took 2 and a half hours to apply. Once home, I also had to get my sister/wedding week personal assistant to Q-tip Vic's Vaporub onto my mehndi before precariously rolling socks over top and sleeping with my hands and feet in little eucalyptus-smelling sock-baggies. Le sigh. So that was Wednesday.

But wait, there's more! Stay tuned for part 2 of 4 in my wedding photo series - a look at Thursday, The Mandvo Party!

All photos taken by the incomparable Ashley Lena Photography!

Back in the saddle again!

2012-01-02T14:08:00.000-08:00

I am now Mrs. Shannon Plante! Since the wedding, people have been asking me how married life is. I am always happy to report that "it is entirely no different. Thank Goodness." I will say this though...

You know how you sometimes hear about people who go through something called "post-wedding blues" after they've had their nuptials? NOT THIS GIRL.

Don't get me wrong, I loved our big day and treasure (most of) the memories. But seriously. Who are these people? Who actually wants to go through the Iron Man challenge that is a wedding? By November 20th, I was sleep-deprived, plagued with headaches (something I never get normally), had long since said goodbye to my appetite, was poked and prodded at constantly, and grew accustomed to being interrogated on a daily basis. I've never been to prison, but I have a sneaking suspicion it's slightly better than a wedding - in prison they've at least got time to relax and watch movies.

Photos will be up soon, but this is really just time for me to catch up with you. And to vent/offer some advice in case you're ever crazy enough to have a massive 200+ wedding. So let's have at 'er:

ALWAYS hire a wedding planner/coordinator. If not for the whole planning process, then at least for the big day itself. If your venue says they have someone, don't rely on that. PLEASE.
The entire reason your parents have siblings is for you to have free personal assistants for the week before your wedding. Take advantage of this opportunity. Trust me.
Stock a LOT of wine, cheese, crackers, and pre-cut fruit in your kitchen for the entire week leading up to the wedding. It saves so much effort and scrambling in the event of visitors, but also doubles as light nourishment when you're too excited/nervous to eat and the wine works as a sedative-alternative for when you want to sleep but can't.
The people you pay for services that have contracts and seem highly professional will be the ones who undoubtedly drop the ball and prove to be universally incompetent. Those who you hired for some smallish thing based on a whim will be the ones who surprise you the most with their awesomeness.
I'd say to tip accordingly for number 4, but unfortunately there's that whole "gratuity included" nonsense. Don't even get me started.
You will ALWAYS forget to thank someone. Just put a disclaimer into your speech at the end.
Leave reviews for all your vendors online after all is said and done. We left some really nasty ones for those who messed up royally, and some shining reviews for those who went above and beyond. Your experiences are incalculably valuable to others, so pay it forward.
Buy every piece of decor you can. The rental price is hardly ever more than 20% cheaper than buying (sometimes it's even the exact same price), and this way, you can sell everything back on sites like craigslist or kajiji and make back practically everything you put in for those items. Just have patience if you're selling in the off-season.
Never buy your wedding dress online. I bought many wedding things online that worked perfectly and looked amazing (bridesmaid dresses included) but I went through three dresses online before finding the two I ended up using from real stores. The average level of pickiness for a bride with her dress makes it simply not worth the attempt at savings.
Delegate, but only to a certain point. Remember every time you ask someone else to do something for you that this is YOUR wedding, not theirs, and the hours/effort they are going to put in would easily cost you a pretty penny if you had it professionally done, so appreciate them for their generosity. It goes without saying that you should also not be nit-picky with what they're helping with if you're not the one doing it yourself. This is really the most important point I could make.

We'll leave it at that for now, although you can expect more from me soon. I don't have any excuses to not post any longer. I've finally got a round-tuit. (I actually did buy one on ebay).

P.S. Happy Christmas!
P.P.S. Happy New Year!

Guest Post: Arcadian Lighting

2011-10-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Well, while I haven't been around as much as I'd like, wedding and degree completion both happening within the next couple of months, I am so pleased to announce my first guest post: Jenn from Arcadian Lighting! She will be showing us just how lovely a dash of colour in the hall can be! Perfect for this lovely fall season! Enjoy...

Hello there! I'm Jenn and I'm a writer for Arcadian Lighting, an e-commerce website that specializes in top lighting ideas and trends from around the world. I had a Holly Hobbie light fixture when I was a little girl, and since then I have loved home decor and accessories. My two favourite things are perusing high-end interior design boutiques in my hometown of Montreal and scouring the net for inspiring blogs, one of which is Realistic Chic, where owner Shannon shares her favourite things about fashion, decor, and more. I'm excited to be guest posting here today about colourful halls - thank you Shannon!

A dash of colour in the hall always makes a big impact. Even though this is a transitional space it doesn't mean that homeowners should scrimp on style. A great colour scheme, a few choice pieces of furniture or wall decor elements, and a one-of-a-kind light fixture are all that are needed for a fashionable hallway. Here are eight spaces with a dash of colour in the hall.

Wallpapered bliss

A hallway covered in rich wallpaper can be extremely eye-catching - the deep reds and golds shown here match the rich woods beautifully.

Homey opening

This front hallway in delicate pale blues and white is clean and crisp, while accessories such as the lamp and scalloped detailing on the stairs gives it a homey feel.

Not mellow yellow

A loud shade of yellow gives this hallway a sunny disposition. The white doors and big puffy mod ceiling light tone down the bold hue.

Complimentary chic

Patterns and solid colours, like this two-toned hall, make an ordinary space extraordinary. The painted portrait is also interesting.

Pretty in pink

Although not a traditional hue for a dash of colour in the hall, the pink and white seen here looks very pretty and becomes a unique yet stylish choice.

Hot and bold

Flashy pink is mesmerizing in this modest hallway, while the shabby chic accessories keep the space funky and fun.

Traditional floral

What's so sweet about this hallway is that the blue and white wallpaper is mimicked in the fabric on the chair, and the wall lights are simple mini candelabras that give the set-up charm.

Running colour

A dash of colour in the hall comes in the form of a vivid striped stair runner as well as a collection of vintage watering cans on display on top of a shelf.

Do you like the post? What's your favorite color? Get the lighting fixtures to match your favorite color at Arcadian Lighting.

Image credits: { 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 }

Thanks Shannon for letting us do the guest post in her blog!

I Heard through the Grapevine...

2011-09-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, a lovely little birdie posted something on Facebook that had me singing Hallelujah! Let me explain. While our neighbours to the south sink again into a precarious economical downfall, a downfall so bad that there are "ghost malls" in almost every state (no seriously, look), Canada's retail livelihood is booming. Target is coming soon, Anthropologie has opened a few Canadian locales in the past year alone, Ikeas and malls galore are expanding across the nation. And...the pièce de résistance...

Topshop is coming to Vancouver!

Why is this such a big deal? Case(s) in point:

Gorgeous. Can't wait.

Rest ye...

2011-05-19T14:56:00.001-07:00

Today is the 475th anniversary of the beheading of one of my favourite monarchs: Queen Anne Boleyn (you may have taken her title away, Henry, but she'll always be Queen to me).

Here, in ode to the tyrant king's better half, is a salute to renaissance royalty:

A fitting start to a day like today, drink your morning coffee from this Henry VIII inspired mug and watch his many wives disappear, $12.95:

I can't decide if these unique handmade dolls are creepy or cool (probably both), $40 on Etsy:

This replica headpiece is to die for. Wait, is that in bad taste? I really wish there was a ren faire in Vancouver so I wouldn't feel so insane for wanting one of these merely to sport while I sashay around in my apartment. $55 on Etsy:

And of course, who could forget Anne's iconic 'B' necklace? I know I've mentioned this must-have piece before, but anything so epic in fashion history deserves as many plugs as I can muster. Parish Relics:

To you, Your Royal Highness, Queen Boleyn, "The Most Happy," I wish you peace as those who meddle of your cause do know you are innocent, and judge you the best.

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-05-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

The first batch of cookies made with my new mixer!

They are super gooey and soft, but with a crisp edge. Just the way Grandma use to make!

Early Bday Gift...

2011-05-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Today I feel like Gollum in LOTR when he finally gets a hold of the ring and the look of sheer delight passes over his face "It's mine! My own! My precious!" Why? Because I awoke to Canada Post buzzing at the door and delivering this:

Yes, this gorgeous Kitchen-Aid Artisan Series mixer in 'Ice Blue' is ALL MINE. But that's not all: I also received the Ice Cream Maker attachment. Hooray! The best part in all of this was that I wasn't even expecting it; my lovely mister bought it for me as a (really) early birthday gift. I have no complaints with the premature nature of my new toy's arrival...after all, now I can make chocolate chip cookies without that annoying little hand mixer. Apparently this bad boy can make up to 9 dozen cookies at once! Truly it is The One Mixer of Power.

Now I am off to make the inaugural batch of cookies...with Khaleel's help!

Before and After: Coffee Table

2011-05-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

This project, one of my 101 goals to complete in 1001 days, was just aching to be done over the semester break. The table had been staring at me with its ugly scratched up and dated finish for over a year now, so it was time for a facelift.

The cabriole legs were what caught my attention when I found this mid-century piece for $25 on Craigslist. A few cans of white high-gloss spraypaint later, et voila! L'objet d'art c'est magnifique!

The happiness I get out of beautifying my home borders on perverse.

A Royal Spread...

2011-04-29T02:27:00.000-07:00

I figured since I'm up at 2 in the morning, watching CBC for the 5th straight hour and eagerly anticipating the impending ceremony (t-minus 35 minutes!), I'd offer a look at what my coffee table is adorned with:

The macarons are a French touch to the overtly Birtish day, just to keep with my roots:

A lovely antique cream and sugar set I bought on ebay a while back. Simply love the claw feet!

Devon cream and blueberry/raspberry scones are a last minute alternative to the Queen's Biscuit Cake I had posted I would make (I seem to have sneakily eaten all the baker's chocolate in the house without without being conscious of the fact). The Devon cream, however, is not made with marscapone because I did not have it...instead I substituted a light cream cheese. Really though, it's pretty much the same. The trick is to add a pinch of lemon zest to the cream before beating it. Trust me.

Oh, just don't burn your scones, like I somewhat did to the bottoms of mine. I doubt the Queen would tolerate her scones with the underside scraped off with a butter-knife.

The funny thing is about my fandom in all of this is that without any coercion at all, Khaleel has suddenly decided to also get interested and has set his alarm for 3am to watch the ceremony before going to work. Whether he will actually get up so early and have some Earl Grey and scones with me or whether he will just hit the snooze and forgo the whole thing is yet to be known.

Oh my goodness! Will is in the abbey! Sooooo excited! I like that he doesn't seem fussed that he's all but lost his hair. Updates to come!

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-04-28T16:15:00.000-07:00

Awesome? Oddly, yes. I'll be waiting for 1am tonight...I have macarons and tea at the ready!

via Fabulous K

Fashion Friday

2011-04-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

I've been obsessed with period dramas - especially their wardrobes - for quite some time now. Yet, shamefully, I have still to make a true era replica with my humble little Janome. The worst part is: I've already bought the fabric...bought it ages ago. No, instead I've been occasionally purchasing the odd replica piece (or even original) from the likes of Ebay or Etsy, with paypal funding provided by sales of vintage items from my own Etsy shop. A lovely cycle of e-shopping, to be sure. Anyhow, you can get gorgeous items at Salvation Army prices, if you look carefully enough. Cases in point:

From Ebay...

A lovely army green circa 1950's shirt-dress with sufficient pleats to make room for a petticoat:

A delicate white-work Edwardian blouse, at LEAST 100 years old and still in great condition:

Another one, but with a higher Gibson girl-esque collar and lace edging:

Now I just need a bustle-skirt to go with the tops and a pair of pointed leather ankle-boots!

From Etsy:

A Regency-style green velvet gown complete with empire waist, puffed short sleeves, and lace detailing (my favourite piece!):

I'm thinking it might make a good Halloween costume. Perhaps go as Miss Lizzy Bennet? Hmm. I will need a bonnet, if that's the case.

I really should get down to making those Georgian-style summer gowns. It's just that pleating is a royal pain in a seamstress' tuchas. Oh, well. That's what semester breaks are for: computer games, BBC period dramas, and sewing!

The Royal Wedding Hubbub

2011-04-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

Is it sad that I'm just as suckered in to the hype over Will and Kate's impending nuptuals as normal people are over things like Christmas, the Olympics, or Spring Break? Please don't answer that.

The April 29th wedding event is just around the corner and, with my finals now over, I find myself planning special things I can do (and you too!) to enhance my viewing experience. Here's what I'm thinking:

First, bake the Queen's Chocolate Biscuit Cake. This is Will's favourite and what he has chosen to be made for his bride at their Reception. It's painfully simple to make and doesn't even require that you have much in your cupboards (i.e. perfect for the starving student or paranoid hermit).

You'll need:

- 20 Arrowroot Biscuits (the box of baby digestive cookies you got in that Christmas gift basket four months ago)
- 8 oz Bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped (if you don't have bittersweet, you can use semi...but it will turn out a little extra sweet)
- 1/2 cup sugar (even starving students have this)
- 1 cup whipping cream (borrow from your mum)

Instructions:
Line a smallish loaf pan with waxed paper; set aside. Break biscuits into 1/2-inch pieces; place in a large bowl. Place chocolate in heatproof bowl. In saucepan, stir cream with sugar; bring to boil over medium heat. Pour over chocolate and whisk until smooth. Add 1 1/2 cups of the chocolate mixture to biscuit pieces; stir to coat. Pour biscuit mixture into prepared pan; smooth top. Cover and refrigerate cake and remaining chocolate mixture separately until cake is firm, about 4 hours. Remove remaining chocolate mixture from refrigerator; let come to room temperature. Invert cake onto serving plate; peel off paper. Using small palette knife, spread remaining chocolate mixture over cake. Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour. Slice thinly. Looks like fudge, tastes like cake!

Next, for the wedding viewing, make sure you have some lovely tea (or wine) on hand. Pour generously for either. Works best if you have lovely vintage china to use, but if not, any old mugs or stemware will do.

Set out any nice linen napkins you might have, and if not, substitute in a pretty shawl or chiffon scarf as a table runner:

Napkins only $2 US on Etsy.

Dress as if you were off to Sunday brunch with your Grampy at some lovely garden somewhere. A kooky hat or fascinator is a bonus:

Etsy is such a great place to find these; this one is $26 US.

Monday, May 2nd, I will post photos from my little day of wedding watching. So get some Anglomania up in you and stay tuned!

Fashion Friday

2011-03-11T10:34:00.000-08:00

It's that time again for me to corral as many current fashion essentials as I can for a Spring roundup. I've been shopping a little lately - okay, a lot - and after sifting through some of the painful 70's cowboy revival pieces plaguing our gallerias these days, I've found some great and affordable items that will pair effortlessly with almost anything this season (and well into the rest of the year and beyond). Here's what I love:

This has already been covered, but sparkly gold pumps (and flats) are seriously hitting every style mark for me right now. So chic and timeless, they can go incredibly dressy with a cocktail mini or downright casual with jeans and a classic trench (or even extremely formal with a wedding dress, a la me). Of course, trench coats are another must-have for your wardrobe since they never go out of style and always lend a polish to any outfit. I've already mentioned the on-trendness of white jeans, but if you're getting tired of the jean look, you can also go with white "Treggings," a hybrid of trousers and leggings (I kid you not). Tarnished gold accessories and frilly floral scarves make great add-ons to any ensemble.

American Eagle Outfitters Pocket Tee
$29.50 - ae.com

H M Coral Tank
$9.90 - hm.com

H M Trench Coat
$39.50 - hm.com

American Eagle Outfitters Boyfriend Blazer
$50 - ae.com

American Eagle Outfitters Ankle Jean
$20 - ae.com

BCBG Max Azria Glitter Pumps
$80 - heels.com

H M green flat shoes
$29 - hm.com

Dorothy Perkins Dark Leather Handbag
28 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Art Deco Bracelet
$42 - maxandchloe.com

Miss Selfridge Floral Shawl
14 GBP - missselfridge.com

H M Sunglasses
$6.90 - hm.com

American Eagle Outfitters Leaf Cluster Necklace (Silver)
$19.50 - ae.com

What do you think of these essentials? What items (present or not) are a NEED for you?

Fashion Friday

2011-03-04T10:10:00.000-08:00

Who thought it was a good idea to use Dolly Parton as a fashion inspiration? Apparently H&M did. I typically adore the place, known for its accessible styles at more than affordable prices. HOWEVER, they can come in with a few misses now and then. This time though, the miss was substantial. Just walking through their store yesterday resulted in a myriad of what seems to be bad yearbook photo inspired jean ruffles - complete with a healthy dose of acid wash - and leather fringe. Then, as if it wasn't enough of a Greek tragedy to have such embellishments on the clothing, they threw it onto the shoes...which are platform. Two words: God awful. I cannot begin to tell you what a travesty it will be for anyone to actually purchase, nonetheless wear out in public, these mid-70's and 80's abortions. I've said it once, and I'll say it again: "What happened in the 80's should STAY in the 80's."

A Whole Lot of "NO" by Realistic Chic on Polyvore.com

H M "Please Kill Me" Jumpsuit
hm.com

H M Jean "Teen Witch" dress
hm.com

H M Jerry Seinfeld Shirt
hm.com

H M Tan Ruffle Skirt
hm.com

H M MC Hammer Pants
hm.com

H M Lace Fringe Vest
hm.com

H M Disco Stu Shoes
hm.com

H M Hooker Heels
hm.com

H M Rhinestone Cowboy Bag
hm.com

H M Village People Vest
hm.com

This list begs the question: who exactly are these items created for? Is there really some young filly living in a relatively urban area (since H&M only exist in somewhat-high populations) who sees those faded denim and cork hooker heels and thinks "WANT"? The lace fringe vest???? THE PAISLEY MC HAMMER PANTS???? Does such a person really exist? While the attempted mash-up of tacky-70's-cowboy-hippie-Randy Travis-on peyote is a complete FAIL, there were still some redeeming pieces in H&M's Spring collection. Here's a look at some right items and how to put them together. We'll call it romantic-boho-safari-chic:

A Whole Lot of "YES" by Realistic Chic on Polyvore.com

H M Peasant Dress
$19 - hm.com

H M Blouse
$34 - hm.com

H M Tunic Top
$29 - hm.com

H M Blue Tank
$9.90 - hm.com

H M Ballerina Flats
$29 - hm.com

H M Gladiator Sandals
$19 - hm.com

H M Bag
$29 - hm.com

H M Stone Ring
$4.90 - hm.com

H M Gold Leaf Necklace
$6.90 - hm.com

H M Scarf
$14.90 - hm.com

H M Sunglasses
$4.90 - hm.com

H M White Jeans
$34.90 - hm.com

H M Stone Bracelet
$6.90 - hm.com

Thoughts? Disagreements? Unabashed admissions of liking the fringed cowboy thing? I'd say you can tell me and I won't judge you, but I have to admit I'd be lying. <3

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-03-02T13:35:00.000-08:00

PERFECT.

A fabulous friend of mine shared a link with me last night...to a photographer's blog who shot her friend's wedding...a wedding at Swaneset...IN THE SNOW. Needless to say, when I saw this photo I squeaked like the mermaid in Splash when she broke the TVs:

Because of this, I no longer dream of rain on my wedding. I want snow!!!

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-03-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

This image makes me so excited!

via weheartit

Road Trip: Cannon Beach photos

2011-03-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

Yes, I had totally forgotten to post my shots from Cannon Beach, Oregon. We took a drive down the coast last August, and camped at a great little site about two blocks from the surf. The beach itself was wide, miles long, and gorgeous (click on any image for a high-res version):

The famous Haystack Rock, almost always covered in Puffins:

Some random nature shots I took on the short walks from our campsite to the beach, and adorable mother and baby rabbits that spent the whole weekend with us (I'm sure I blackmailed them with enough leftover salad):

Can you spot the mommy and baby bunnies in this shot?:

But the best part? The picturesque little shopping district that runs along the beachfront, complete with shingled walls in cheerful light colours. The highlight was a little place called Bruce's Candy Kitchen. They made their own salt-water taffy in a variety of flavours, candied apples, fudge, and a whole range of other sweets - not to mention carrying a good selection of classic iconic candies, pop culture accessories, vintage inspired treats, and quirky paraphernalia (bacon flavoured gum, anyone?):

Can one have enough sugar-covered pinkness? Methinks not.

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-02-28T16:26:00.000-08:00

Gypsies.

Coveting Cable Knit

2011-02-28T10:03:00.000-08:00

Recently I posted a look at decor trends for 2011. Erin, a lovely and stylish reader, messaged me asking where she could find one of the extremely cozy looking cable-knit throws to build on her monochromatic bed scheme. So here is a roundup of some of the more reasonably priced throws (since a cashmere one can get up to $600). The inspiration:

Horchow has white ones on clearance (so get them while they last), $49.90:

Sears has these in tan or grey, both of which compliment a muted palate nicely, $49.50:

They also carry this patterned ivory throw, $99.99:

Here's another in a slightly different style of knit, $69.50:

A be-tasselled one from West Elm, $69:

Another from West Elm, in a ruched knit, $69:

Classic one from Pottery Barn, $79:

Another from PB, this one with a reverse side covered in a faux sheepskin, $99:

A pure white one in a waffle pattern also from Pottery Barn, $99:

Ikea has something similar, $45:

The best one, however, is on Amazon, Ralph Lauren, $89:

Be sure to take note of the fabric type. Acrylic means it will pill (just in case: pilling happens mainly in man-made fibers and looks like loose ends balling up on the fabric surface) and show stains profusely. 100% Cotton is best. Wool Cashmere is obviously very luxe, but at several hundred dollars on average, cotton is still your best bet. Also, depending on your comfort level with online shopping, most of these places have stores locally (except for Horchow and Amazon which are online only, and West Elm, which is in Toronto and all over the states) so you're bound to find something just by taking a drive. I would peek into Winners as well. Great deals there.

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-02-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Haystack Rock.

I realized I never did post my pictures from our late-summer trip to Cannon Beach, Oregon, last year. I was thinking about the trip today because it was the last time I had to worry about sunburn, and the temperature here in Vancouver lately has been a balmy -2 celsius (plus windchill). Well, those photos will be up by Tuesday I promise, complete with a mini-tour of the most stunning little confection shoppe I've ever seen! Have a great weekend!

Fashion Friday

2011-02-25T10:48:00.000-08:00

I'd like to take today's Fashion Friday - if you can call it 'fashion' - to address something that's been offending my eyes as of late. I'm looking at you, shoulder pads. Didn't you walk out circa 1988 when my mom finally retired that hot red polyester wrap-dress number - complete with the sequin appliqué along the bust and 3-inch thick patent-leather belt - to the back of the closet? Why, oh why are you venturing out into the world again? And on the neck-sides of some people I really thought knew better, no less.

These bleeping things are invading the award season this year at an alarming rate. This one is especially terrifying because you can actually SEE the pads. Looks like her tacky lace top is on its time of the month:

Tiffany Hines is channelling Liberace meets Liza (two counts of God-awful) in this nightmare. It's like her shoulder pads took her to the ice capades and left the rest of her skirt at the arena:

At first I was sure this one wasn't really Anne Hathaway's fault; I was resolute in believing Elle simply forced her into this atrocity:

Until I saw her in this at the Golden Globes recently. Why, Anne? Why?

It seems to be a growing epidemic:

Now, I'll admit this one isn't so bad. The flowy chiffon just gives the impression of shoulder pads, instead of Leighton actually being puffed up with them. Still though, I'd be weary of anything even remotely resembling SP's at this point:

Pads, you and I have never gotten along. I find you almost as detestable as bras under see-through tops or copious amounts of zippers used as a design embellishment. However, I advise you to heed this warning: keep up this rate of infection and you'll easily top my kill-list.

Loving...

2011-02-24T19:17:00.000-08:00

...all the Gatsbyness going on these days!

First, there's all the hype about the recently "discovered" NES game based on the book that you can play online here. In the game - which is more addictive than finger bowls of champagne - you play as Nick Carraway, the narrator of the novel, traversing New York from the Valley of Ashes to the West Egg. You must follow Gatsby, who's mesmerized by that annoying green light in the distance. The goombas and turtle-duck-things have been replaced with flappers, hobos, and pompous waiters who are so caught up in their hobo flapper waiting ways that they'll mow you down unless you fling your hat at them, Oddjob-style.

Loving that stunning 8-bit damask wallpaper.

But that's not all the Gatsby the entertainment world is bestowing upon us: there is a new film adaptation on the horizon (the old one was released almost 40 years ago and was only alright), directed by Baz Luhrman no less. Obviously that means the movie will be spectacular, especially since it stars Leo DiCaprio as the debonair Jay Gatsby and Tobey Maguire as an unassuming Carraway (he usually irritates me but I must admit he does fit this role). The only thing that seems a little off is that they're apparently shooting it in 3D. It's not Terminator or Avatar, or any Cameron-esque film that would benefit from such a format, so this makes me a little apprehensive.

Also, my Fitsgerald Penguin classics collection recently came in the mail. No one does cover art like Penguin. I should really say "no one does cover art like Coralie Bickford-Smith," but as of late, tomato-tomahto. They are simple black and white covers with a foil finish in gold, silver, and copper. My shelf now oozes nouveau riche (click the images to see bigger sizes):

LOVE.

Want gratuitously more Gatsby? Then click to go past the cut, ol' sport.

Since Gatsby has the ability to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing books to date, it comes as no surprise that cover art for the book garners some simply lovely work. Case(s) in point:

(1945)

(1965)

The original (1925)

Jan Tschichold's Iconic style (1950)

Not my favourite (1960)

Graphic novel adaptation...yes, that's a seahorse (2008)

(1973)

Tamara de Lempicka's sumptuous "Young Girl in Green" Art Deco painting was borrowed for this one (1998)

No idea when this one was made, but it's gorgeous!

And of course, the Penguin hardback classics edition (2010)

I'm thinking of having a Gatsby themed dinner night sometime. Too lame? Wanna come?