Suburban Faux-Pas

Something new!

2020-03-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

Hey All! I'm so excited to let you know that there's a spiffy new site you can find me at. Head on over to KrystinLee.com to catch all blog content going forward!

Poppies for Spring

2020-03-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sunglasses | Trenchcoat: Burberry {Designer Dupe}

Dress: c/o Eliza J | Handbag: Chanel {Designer Dupe}

Shoes: Dior {Designer Dupe} | Cuffs: c/o Julie Vos

I adore anything bright and fresh for spring - like this dress! To get in the mood for the climate, I added a light trench coat on top. This Burberry one is a classic that I've had for years and always get so many compliments on. You can now shop this style and other updated versions from the brand at Bloomingdale's!

Johanna Ortiz x HM Launch

2020-03-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Boater hat | Sunglasses | Cuff: c/o Julie Vos

Dress: c/o Johanna Ortiz x H&M | Lace Tank

Necklace | Handbag: c/o Pamela Munson {also here} | Shoes: Alexandre Birman

I already had the chance to rant and rave about this collection drop on Instagram over the weekend but the Johanna Ortiz x H&M collection drop is nothing short of amazing. From voluminous sleeves to bold patterns and hues, this collection just screams my name. I was up bright and early on the 12th when the collection launches but have noticed that the odd item will still get restocked with sizes so be sure to keep an eye out!

Pink Houndstooth Jacket

2020-03-12T10:09:00.000-04:00

Jacket: c/o Court & Rowe {also here} | Similar Headband

Bow Blouse | White Jeans | Similar Shoes {Old Zara}

Handbag: Chanel {Designer Dupe} | Sunglasses: Quay

Swimwear but make it Fashion

2020-03-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Boater Hat | Sunglasses | Earrings

Swimsuit: c/o Summersalt | Pants: c/o Roxy

I've chatted about my newfound love for swimsuits as tops and this particular style is no different. I've raved about my love for Summersalt on multiple occasions and The Sidestroke is no different. I have it in 2 colourways now. Normally, I refuse to opt for swimwear without pads or cups but this style fits so perfect I feel like it holds everything in! I also appreciate the full coverage on the bottom and the thickness of the side strap. I can't recommend the brand enough if you're in the market for a new piece of swimwear this season!

Striped Maxi Dress

2020-03-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

Headband | Similar Earrings

Sunglasses | Striped Dress {also love this} | Bag: c/o Kayu

Bracelet: c/o Julie Vos | Similar Shoes

Newfound Love

2020-03-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Cat Eye Sunglasses - Up to 25% off | Dress, Maxi Version up to 25% off here

White Espadrilles - Up to 25% off here

It's not often I come across a designer whose entire collection just blows my mind. I'm often picky about certain items here or there or perhaps 1-2 pieces just spark joy but Banjanan is a brand that has me figured out. The block print patterns hailing from India are so unique and the design of the dresses are so feminine and flirty. Truth be told, the collection is a little pricier than most brands I tend to wear and showcase on the blog but I do feel that 1-2 splurge pieces from this brand for the spring summer season are investment items I'll have for now and years to come.

Thankfully, the maxi version of this dress along with most other items in this outfit are up to 25% off the Shopbop sale with code, SPRING.

Spring Fever

2020-03-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Floral Kimono | Pink Acrylic Bag | Ombre Tie Waist Dress | Floral Print Bathing Suit

Palm Print Suit | Palm Print Wrap Skirt | Floral Off the Shoulder Dress

Rattan Chunky Heel | Sun Visor Hat | Drop Earrings | Rattan Bag with Pearl Ribbon

Tiered Maxi Dress | Pom Pom Maxi Dress | Green Off the Shoulder Dress | Floral Swimsuit Coverup

Blue Floral Slides

Fresh on the heels of our trip, I'm still feeling all of the tropical resort vibes as I'm curating my spring wardrobe. From flowy drop hem dresses to rattan and woven accessories - my wardrobe for spring/summer will heavily be influenced from our travels to the Caribbean, Palm Beach and other sunny destinations. Thankfully, getting the heard start on building your next season wardrobe is a little easier with the Shopbop buy more, save more event. Orders starting at $200 can qualify for 15% and the increments only go up from there. I've already added these slides and this swimsuit to my cart while I shop for more goodies! To take advantage of these deals, use code SPRING when checking out!

Candy Pink Sunrise

2020-02-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Boater Hat | Coverup: c/o Sundress

Marysia Swimsuit | Similar Earrings | Similar Bag

Shoes: Hermes {Designer Dupe} | Bangles: c/o Julie Vos

When we heard the sunrises in Phu Quoc were almost too good to be true, we had to see it for ourselves. I can't lie, getting up before 6am has been and never will be my thing. Alas, for a candy pink sunrise and a morning dip in the calmest water - with a strong cup of coffee nearby - you can almost convince me. And based on these photos, I'm sure you can tell it was worth it!

From the Rooftops

2020-02-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

Boater Hat | Sunglasses

Espadrilles

I can't lie, trying to look cute in 38 degree weather is no easy feat My solution? A light, breezy dress, boater hat to hide from the rays, little to no jewelry and and oversized sunnies. This is a tried, tested and true dress I've used for years when travelling but included links to some similar styles below.

Scallops in Saigon

2020-02-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Similar Hat | Sunglasses

Dress | Similar Belt

Bag | Sandals

If I had to sum myself up in a dress - this would be it! Scallops, colour, dramatic sleeves and a fuller skirt, it just makes my heart pitter patter. I wore it for our first day walking around Saigon. I loved that the fabric felt light considering we were exploring in 35 degree weather - yikes! For sizing reference this is a Small (I don't believe there was an XS for reference) and I did find belting the waist portion of the dress helped eliminate any gaping.

An evening in Hoi An

2020-02-19T21:50:00.001-05:00

Headband | Dress: c/o Roxy

Similar Handbag {Old Eric Javits} | Similar Lace Sandals

After we arrived in Da Nang, the first thing we wanted to do was explore Hoi An at dusk. The city really comes alive with lanterns lit, boats cruising up and down the canal, restaurants serving up fare and a buzz in the city. Not as chilly as Hanoi at night, Hoi An still had a slight breeze so the longer sleeves on this dress worked perfect as we walked around from 4-10PM. I'll be sharing our entire itinerary shortly so stay tuned!

Beach Days in Da Nang

2020-02-17T09:15:00.001-05:00

Boater Hat | Sunglasses

Swimsuit: Summersalt | Pants: c/o Summersalt

Straw Tote Bag

The second leg of our trip brought us to Da Nang and a stay at the Intercontinental DaNang Sun Peninsula resort. If you were following along on my stories, you'll know the property is nestled in the mountains and the property is set on the most lush grounds. Every room overlooks the cove with sweeping views of the water - which makes for the perfect sunrise. And there furry friends - monkeys- everywhere! We had the chance to snap a couple pictures as they hung out on our balcony.

After spending 4 days walking over 20,000 steps a day, we decided a beach day was in order and we hung out at the resort. I spend the day lounging in this suit and these comfy palazzo pants. Both packed so easy for this trip and I loved that the pants could also be worn to dinner with a nice blouse - they have a beautiful linen feel to them! Right now, I'm able to extend $10 off your first purchase of a $95 swimsuit with code, KRYSTINLEE10!

Posted up in Hanoi

2020-02-13T10:12:00.003-05:00

Similar Headband | Similar Blouse {Old H&M}

White Jeans | Gold Flats

Similar Handbag

Another Hanoi coffee shop - shocker! The weather was cool and rainy on our second day so we spent our time ducking in and out of cute coffee shops, searching out boutiques and feasting our hearts out. These are my go-to flats when we travel: the sole is cushioned, they fold so great in suitcases and they're cute! I've got them in nude and this metallic gold which pair with everything. I also adore these white jeans - they have just right amount of stretch, are not see through (key for white jeans!) and are high-waisted so they work with so many different blouse styles.

Date Night in Hanoi

2020-02-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Headband | Sunglasses

Swing Dress | Similar Bag

Bangles: c/o Julie Vos | Gold Bow Shoes

We snapped this look before heading out for dinner in Hanoi. After a day of overcast skies and drizzly weather, I wanted a pop. The weather is quite cool here in the early spring so a long sleeve option was a must for heading out at night. I actually purchased this dress last spring and often find myself pulling it out for our travels. It's not the easiest to iron or steam when you unpack it but it's a dream!

First Things First

2020-02-10T09:03:00.002-05:00

Hair Clip | Floral Print Dress

Similar Belt | Handbag: c/o Kayu

Sandals

Nearly 24 hours in the air and a few flights later, we landed in Hanoi. As tempted as we were to crashing in bed, we pushed through to spend our first full day in Vietnam exploring the city. Since we were in the Northern part of the country, we were told to anticipate cooler weather and to dress accordingly. This long sleeve, maxi length dress came in handy with the cooler temps and drizzle of rain here and there. I tossed on a jean jacket and found myself fine for most of the day. First things first on our list of places to visit? Baked by Julie for coffee and treats. Oh and did I mention it's the most Instagram worthy location as well? It's a must if you're heading to the area!

It's Business Time

2020-02-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Pink Suede Jacket | Shirt Dress

Similar Belt | YSL Bag {Designer Dupe}

Shoes: Christian Louboutin {Designer Dupe} | Quay Sunglasses

Blush Love

2020-02-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Rhinestone Clips | One Shoulder Dress c/o Eliza J

Similar Earrings {Old Baublebar} | Cuffs: c/o Julie Vos

Alaia Shoes | Loeffler Randall Bag {Designer Dupe}

I can't resist a great cocktail dress and this is no exception! The subtle glitter and over the shoulder bow just made me swoon :) Whether it's date night, attending a wedding or another special occasion, this frock will definitely be on repeat for me!

Poppy Work Wear

2020-01-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

Headband | Similar Jacket

Shirt Dress | Sunglasses

Givenchy Bag | Manolo Blahnik Shoes {Designer Dupe}

Julie Vos Bangles

I stumbled across this work wear dress last week and fell in LOVE. This brand is often one of my favourites for casual wear dresses that can easily transition from day to night. I also love that a kitten heel or pump feel equally strong when paired with this wardrobe basic. And the subtle colours of pink, blue. green and white pulling in accent colours a breeze.

Winter Wonderland

2020-01-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

Pom Pom Hat | Stripe Sweater - Under $25

Sunglasses | Similar Scarf

Similar Boots and here {Old Steve Madden}

The only thing I love about these photos is the striped H&M sweater for under $25 haha! I just can't handle winter this year and have tried to line up as many work and personal trips as possible to keep me out of the snow. I love the mock neck on this sweater which makes it perfect for layering with blouses but also keeps you ultra cozy on those -20 mornings walking to work!

Sequin Midi Skirt

2020-01-27T09:13:00.000-05:00

Beret | Turtleneck

Sunglasses | Chanel Bag {Designer Dupe}

Skirt: c/o Eliza J | Similar Shoes {Old J. Crew}

We finally hit above 0 degrees on the weekend and I could motivate myself to get outside and shoot some new content. I can't lie, I've been in a bit of a funk lately with a loss in the family, foregoing a sunny destination trip we had booked and the gloomy weather we've been having but with only 53 days left till spring, I'm trying to turn over a new leaf! Since I can't be in the sun, I'm trying to dress like it's just around the corner.

Sunday Afternoon Fun

2020-01-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

Headband | Similar Jacket

Floral Dress | Chanel Bag {Designer Dupe}

This past weekend, I dropped by my sister's house on Sunday afternoon to be surprised by champagne, croissants and the cutest little munchkin! I love watching the progress they've been making on their fixer upper and to soak up all their natural light - we have none in our kitchen! I wore this new dress I snagged from H&M for under $40. I've been wearing it with ankle boots and tights mid week or with sneakers and a moto jacket on weekends.

Remixed

2020-01-20T10:00:00.002-05:00

Similar Blouse Here and Here {Old Banana Republic} | Skirt: HM - Also loving this and this

Similar Bag {Poppies & Peonies} | Similar Shoes | Sunglasses

Sharing a remix of old wardrobe favourites today in honour of dry January (and by dry, I mean shopping!)

Fav Buys of 2019

2020-01-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Replica 'By The Fire' Perfume: While this wasn't my first Replica perfume purchase, I was searching for something that had warmth in the scent for the fall/winter months. The scent is as perfect as the name and has been my go-to morning spritz since September. I have a feeling I'll need a restock by fall 2020!

Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter Foundation: This was a new-to-me product thanks to a PR kit that started a love affair. I have shades 3, 4, 5 and 6 for the different tones in my skin throughout the year. This is a light coverage foundation (almost like a BB cream) that gives the ultimate glow. Most mornings I use this, concealer, a swipe up bronzer and I'm out the door!

Blank NYC Jacket: No surprise this made the list - it was the 3rd shade in this jacket from the brand. From work trips to weekened getaways, office wear or dressed up errands, these jackets are my FAV. After grabbing the burgundy and beige shades, I had some fun with this lilac colour.

Chanel Beige Flap: This was by far the most monumental purchase of 2019. Truthfully, the year of out 10th anniversary was a bit of a dud after our housing situation and between paying for renovations, lawyers and more - a gift just didn't seem appropriate. Thankfully, just in time for our 11th anniversary, this bag became available at my local boutique and the timing just felt perfect! I opted for the beige medium flap in caviar leather with gold hardware. While the debate between the medium and large was enough to drive any shopping companion insane, I opted for the medium with hopes that it could work as day/night bag without seeing too much like a statement bag. I still LOVE it!

MAC Brow Gel: I stumbled upon this by accident while spending hours stuck in an airport. This gel is the only solution I've found to add length to my brows and holds them up for an entire day!

Loeffer Randall Penny Knot Mule: I had these on my wish list FOREVER and am so glad I finally pulled the trigger. I love pairing these with evening wear, skirts, jeans/blouses and so many combos. Not only are they a statement piece but they're incredibly comfortable. I'm currently eying this pair!

Sam Edelman Loafer: I have these in 3 colour ways and I can't tell you how comfortable they are. I've walked over 100K steps in one pair and had them resoled once as a testament to their durability. While the leopard print is my favourite, you can never go wrong with neutrals.

Club Monaco Plaid Jacket {also here}: I'm breaking up with black jackets for the winter season and this coat was just the item to convince me. See it recently styled here.

BaubleBar Ring: I wear this ring on the daily. The perfect signet ring, I find it makes the ultimate statement if you find stacking jewelry before heading out the door isn't something you have time for.

Senreve Backpack: I changed jobs this year which meant transitioning from a drive to work to taking public transit in the city. Switching from a tote bag to a backpack was oh-so-necessary for my back and after searching for stylish options, this was the best option on the market. A few months into wearing it, I adore the bag. The leather is so sturdy, it transitions great from a backpack to hand-held bag and the different compartments are great at attempting to keep me organized. While I appreciate the safety functions it presents, my only complaint would be the lack of exterior pockets to access handy items like a wallet without needing to unclip and then unzip your bag. Do note a large sized bag is required for a 13" Macbook.

Mason Pearson Brush: I was 100% shocked this wouldn't live up to expectations and it proved me wrong. From brushing out fresh waves to teasing high-ponytails on the go - this brush is definitely worth the hype.

Work Wear on a Budget

2020-01-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

Headband | Similar Sunglasses

Coat | Shirt Dress {also loving this}

Bag | Similar Shoes

I stumbled across this dress brand on Amazon this past summer and fell in love. Their prints are so fun and while some do feel reminiscent of other brands, I try to steer clear of those options in favour of the fun, colourful patters they offer. While most of the items I've ordered fit great, I did have to have this dress altered in the bust by shifting the buttons over and letting out the side panels. A little more than I wanted to spend but I loved the dress so much and the initial investment was quite low so I could justify it. I'd suggest sizing up for this particular item :)