C'EST GIRL SO CHIC

castles made of snow

2011-03-11T10:14:00.001-08:00

Speech's newest collection "APOCALYPSE AND THE MOON" coming out in April.

Get excited.

dumbstruck baby

2011-03-02T20:45:00.000-08:00

OPI BLACK SHATTER with Opi x sephora Ocean Potion

OPI'S BLACK SHATTER!

I am pretty sure that every time I paint my nails from this point on, I will have the urge to paint black shatter over them.

When I first tried out the Minx nails from Sephora, I had a fun time telling people I did them myself. I think I will do the same with this for a bit. When I fess up and tell people the truth..I will let them know that all you do is paint a coat of black shatter over the colour on your nails and it does the trick. The black shatter begins to separate itself and crackles up allowing the base colour to shine through and makes your nails look like you have one hell of a pattern on them. I don't think any of my nails look exactly the same though. I would recommend a clear top coat though just to firm it out a bit.

I can't wait to test it on a few other colours with it

me + hong kong=love affair

2011-02-28T19:47:00.001-08:00

I want to apologize in advance.

I tried really hard to not do peace signs in every photo that was taken in Asia...but it turned out to be very hard. Just when I thought it would be a normal photo my right hand started creeping up and assumed position. It was like terets so I am sorry for obnoxiously peacing in every second photo.

Some very overdue photos from the Hong Kong portion of my Asia trip. Hong Kong is amazing on so many levels...I can't get over how much I love it there.

Some reasons why:
1. You can buy Collagen masks at the corner store. YES REALLY. I'm pretty sure I was obsessed with the drug stores more than anything else?
2. Asian babies.
3. Their subway system. Hello....Phone service!
4. The fact that you can literally see 5 Chanel stores during a 5 minute walk ( and every other store you can think of...they even have stores underground in the subway)
5. Cool Asians. Every person is a walking magazine ad. Dressed cooler than I can ever imagine.
6. DISNEYLAND!!!!!!! I'm really a 12 year old deep down.
7. Wyndham Avenue-a street of amazing bars and restaurants
8. It's such an international city...yes it's filled with asians but there are so many people from all over the world that are living in Hong Kong.
9-10. Asian Babies

TAKE ME BACK.

havana dreams

2011-02-26T09:03:00.001-08:00

this colour makes me excited for spring.

opi X sephora-havana dreams

catch on like a bonfire

2011-02-18T08:25:00.000-08:00

Dress: Religion, Bag: H&M, Necklace: Speech

I bought this dress from ASOS.com aka Log on and realize you will almost always drop $100 on something. I bought it thinking that it would be perfect for the Bali weather...it seemed light, airy and comfy. I noticed it was by a brand called Religion..a brand I haven't heard of before.

The first night I was in Bali, we were shopping and at each of the stores I kept seeing pieces that were made by this label. Then another 5 mintues later, an entire RELIGION store. So weird..yet so meant to be.

Also, how cute is my little elephant friend. His name is stumpy and he was a real charmer.

it sounds so real i can taste it

2011-02-10T14:09:00.001-08:00

Dress: lucyd acyd, Purse: Asos, Foxtail: Hong Kong Hole in the wall store

Sort of OBSESSED with this dress. I think part of the reason is because I am obsessed with robes ( particularly hotel bath robes-my main excitement of any trip is knowing there is a possibility of being cozied up in one) and this dress kind of resembles one in terms of shape.

I lost the belt on a night out ...because, I mean, when don't I lose something during a night out...but belt or no belt, it still works and I still love it. I also have this dress in white and if they make it in any other colours in the future..I will probably have to buy.

Paired with my beaten down ASOS purse. Surprised I haven't lost that thing on a night out...it's definitely a survivor.

hearts on fire

2011-02-08T04:04:00.000-08:00

Hanging hearts at Ku De Ta in Bali.

Hearts on my mind right now.

speech sneak peak

2011-02-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

One of the new pieces from the new Speech collection.

I actually picked up some of the samples while I was in Bali so I got to sport them before I handed them over to my brother and they are definitely my favourite pieces yet. And that says a lot since I wear my Speech cross necklace pretttty much everyday.

Love.

warmth of the sand

2011-01-30T20:43:00.000-08:00

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri- Quick Sand

Found this lovely nude shade at Walmart today. I love that it has the smallest amount of sparkle throughout.

Nothing like a fresh ( and new!) coat of nail polish to start off your week...

alexa

2011-01-29T18:19:00.001-08:00

I've been waiting to buy a new black bag for quite some time. I was eyeing the Alexander Wang Diego bag for as long as I can remember so I decided when I went to Hong Kong that I would finally make the purchase there. Since I have been to Hong Kong before I knew that it's the kind of city where there is every kind of store and designer imaginable so I clearly thought I would have no issue getting the Deigo bag there. So wrong.

I walked into Lane Crawford (department store similar to Barney's or Holt's) and was so excited to make my purchase

"Do you have the Wang Diego bag in black?"-me
*Crickets/Ackward Silence*
"That bag is last season. We do not carry last season"-sales associate

The girl actually looked at me as if I had 3 heads. Like, what kind of question is that? And not even in a snobby way...more in a "i'm confused that your asking this" kind of way.

Anyways, when I got home and did some thinking, i realized that Hong Kong not having the bag was kind of meant to be. Not that I don't still love it..because I do ( and I will accept Diego donations if anyone is willing), but I decided to get a bag that was a little more classic.

Hello Mulberry Over-Sized Alexa bag. Goodbye hole-y, broken BCBG bag.

must be the way you see the world

2011-01-19T10:55:00.001-08:00

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Magical. If i could sum up Bali in one word, it would be just that. and that's hard to do with an island that has so many personalities.

The many faces of Bali are seen everyday. The day begins with rain. An hour later the sun is out-bright and strong. Your at a temple. You are stuck in obscene traffic. Your driver, who is from a village and has never left Bali, is as happy as they come and gives off the warmest vibes. Your in the jungle. Your by the beach. Your sitting with monkeys. Children are laughing. Children are working. You are in a surf town. Your in a hut. Your in a trendy restaurant. Your eating a meal for $2. You see a beautiful pink flower in the middle of the greenest rice fields. Your on an elephant. You see a family of 4 on a scooter. You see flowers and religious offerings infront of each business and home. You see smiles. It rains again. The sun peaks through. Pink, Blue and Purple hues warm the sky. You see smiles.

There was so much going on each day that it was hard to wrap my head around some of the things I was seeing, feeling, and learning. But at the end of each day..for the entire time I was there, my end thought of the day was that this place is absolutely magical.

orient automatic watch giveaway

2011-01-12T18:31:00.000-08:00

Since I just got back from the Orient, I figured it was fitting to have a giveaway for an Orient watch! Although this watch doesn't necessary make me think "Asia", it makes me think of a few other things and they are---perfect and timeless..a piece that will never go out of style.

And you can win one!

And not just the one in the picture. You can win any watch from their standard collection and there are a whole array of coloured backgrounds-not just khaki. The khaki one just happens to be my favourite. They also have a few cute other ones like this one-CEVAD001B and this one- CEX0R001B ..although these ones aren't up for grabs!

You can win by commenting with your email address in the comment section below. Like every other contest..extra points given for tweeting or facebooking about this post. Also it is only open to US residents.

Contest ends January 30th 2011 ( eek still not used to typing that!)

Good Luck!

dreams in colours

2011-01-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

Flowers in your hair are good at any time but being on a beach, on an island, and in the sun make it even more enjoyable to wear.

I got this beautiful headpiece as a Christmas gift. The headpiece is by Canadian designer, Lara Vincent. All of her pieces make me want to run free, believe in make believe and daydream...check out her website and you will likely start feeling that way too.

All of the headpieces are handcrafted, made of suede and silk material...and lots of talent.

The only downfall is that you cannot wear these headpieces around monkeys. I know..what a bummer, right? If you happen to be around a monkey wearing one of her headpieces ( I was), they may mistaken it for a banana and try to snatch it from you ( they did).

Ohh Bali.

joy in joyce

2011-01-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

Special things happened in Hong Kong and one of them was being able to see the Joyce 40th anniversary exhibition "A Journey in Fashion" which is being shown in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Paris.

The exhibition featured designs from Rick Owens, YSL, Proenza Schouler...to name a few. Each designer picked a piece to showcase and most of the pieces were from the first collection each of them sold to Joyce (iconic department store in Hong Kong-basically first store to bring luxury brands to Hong Kong). Some of the pieces shown were from collections as early as the 80's-hello amazing!

I had to pinch myself at one point because there were certain pieces that I just couldn't believe I was looking at in person (leather pants by Karl Lagerfeld from 1984!). Also couldn't believe all the stylish Asians also at the exhibit...or just in the streets of Hong Kong in general. Their style is just so different than anything you see on North American turf. I slowly developed a staring problem by the end of my time in the amazing city that is Hong Kong. I love that city beyond words. I also loved the exhibit beyond words too.

rocky horror picture show

2010-12-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

Dress and Jacket: Forever 21, Shoes: Louboutin

Our Christmas Eve day consisted of going to this old, old house that was over 150 years old to take some updated family portraits. And it was beyond awesome.

The house had about 20 different rooms..each room was so insanely different and was decked with some crazy ass wallpaper that was worn in and magical. There were definitely some stories that have gone on in that house...that's forsure. In one of the rooms, we found children's lamps dangling from the ceiling. It was cool....and creepy.

We had a perfect christmas eve and I hope the holiday was just as perfect for each of you!

xoxo

something old, something new

2010-12-24T19:42:00.000-08:00

Skirt: Jacob, Top: Zara, Jacket: Danier

I love pieces that sit in my closet for years, untouched ....yet I know that I will 100% wear them again. This skirt is one of those pieces. I wore it years ago but even after I had my time with it, I could never part with it. I let it sit in my closet since and now, i's back to being loved again.

I am currently getting ready for a big trip to Asia ( Hong kong and Bali!!) and I can't wait to bust out this skirt while I am there. It's so perfect for extremely hot weather- so lose and breezy. And man it's hot over there ( 38 degrees F). CANNOT WAIT!

calm before the storm

2010-12-20T20:57:00.000-08:00

I know in the land of hardcore nailpolish fanatics this colour is old news and not relatively exciting but in my world ( the semi nailpolish fanatic's world) this is exciting. I got the Deborah Lippman "What Happens in Vegas" shade as a belated birthday gift aka the nail polish that Lady Gaga sported on the cover of Vanity Fair. Yay!

Not sure how a colour this calm and cool can include the word 'Vegas' but if Vegas looked like this, I'd probably go back more often.

black breeze blows

2010-12-12T10:05:00.001-08:00

Dress: Macy's. Shoes: Forever 21, Purse: BCBG, Foxtail: Gifted

I am not a great person to shop with...unless you have the same shopping style as me.

This includes: In and out of each store. Knowing what your looking for and if it's not there...hasta la vista. Changeroom missions are quick. Can circle a store once to know if you like anything.

This shopping style does not include Macy's ( for those of you not familiar with Macy's, its a massive department store in the US) which I refer to as "THE BLACK HOLE"
There is just so much going on, so many racks crammed into one small area, it's always so packed , i always feel like i am dying of heat exhaustion in there and everyone I have gone in there with tends to spend at least 2 hours in there. Basically, I've just never had a great experience in there.

However, I was asked ( forced) to accompany my mom into one of the Macy's while we were shopping in Buffalo last week and I found this cream dress while waiting for her .....and ate up my words that I would never buy anything from Macy's.

I am in love with this dress. And would probably say it was my favourite purchase from my day of shopping. Macy's-you have slightly redeemed yourself. Slightly.

ice queen

2010-12-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

Boots: Cougar Boots

I suffer from S.A.D -seasonal affective disorder ( ok I haven't' actually been diagnosed but I am one step away from placing a bucket of sand in my room and a heat lamp to make me feel like summer is near). Due to this, I tend to be a TAD dramatic when I have to go outside in below 0 temperatures. Gloves, scarfs, and now my new Cougar boots help make the walk from my house to my car a little easier (relax-i also walk from my car into work for all those city people cursing me right now).

Anyways, I am especially glad I got these booties to keep me warm as my feet are always the coldest! They are super warm, cozy...and not to mention, safe-Heels, ice and snow are not a great mix.

If you live in a place where winter is around for more than 2 months, I'd highly suggest.

Thanks Cougar for sending them over!

birthday bunny

2010-12-01T18:46:00.000-08:00

Shorts: Aritzia, Blouse: Jacob, Shoes: Sam Edelman, Rings: Forever 21 & Low Luv, Ears: Made by a friend, Nailpolish: Joe Fresh

Some people wear tiaras for their birthdays but my friends and I, who had a joint birthday party for all of the babies born in november, decided it would be best to wear chanel inspired animal ears. And naturally, I got right into character. Perhaps a litttle too much ( these pictures were from the beginning of the night and by 2am, I was still doing the exact same poses...or at least I found out in the morning that I was. I wont even mention the bunny noises that were also being made. haha it as my birthday? I was allowed? ...Yeah ill stick with that)

I've been wanting to buy a pair of leather shorts for a while and since it was my birthday, I figured these ones were the perfect "happy birthday to myself" present.

I was quite happy with them..but not as happy as celebrating my birthday with some very fabulous and cool people xx

death of a disco dancer

2010-11-29T16:01:00.000-08:00

Just another amazing thing Joe Fresh has come up with...nailpolish ( like I REALLY need another nailpolish but we wont go there today ok)

be the change you wish to see in the world

2010-11-28T17:46:00.000-08:00

Shorts: Express Shirt: Me to We Style, Shoes: Sam Edelmen, Purse: Asos, Jacket: Espirit

I spy with my little eye: Africa

At first glance, its a little difficult to see but look closely ( I make you work on this blog!) and you can see a print of it on my shirt

This lovely shirt is cool for two reasons

1. It's from Me to We Style-a new line of products that are manufactured ethically.....everything is domestically produced and is made in a sweatshop free environment. Basically, I felt like I was doing something good when I was wearing it.

2. Me to We Style is brought to you by Me to We, charity partner of Free the Children ( one of my favourite charities run by Craig Kielburger-a seriously amazing young guy that created this charity when he was a teenager). The charity supports development projects in rural and impoverished areas across the world). 50% of all the proceeds from all the clothing bought go to this cause and that alone is great. My friend works there and I have seen the photos from their journeys to the villages they go to and it is truly inspiring.

They have a great line of shirts, scarfs and my favourite thing out of the whole line-the jewelry.

Check it out here:

oh wow

2010-11-24T19:14:00.001-08:00

via knightcat

the perfect red dress from the zara evening collection.

day and night

2010-11-15T19:21:00.000-08:00

Jacket: H&M, Sweater: Alexander Wang, Bag: BCBG, Skirt: Forever 21, Foxtail: Gift, Ring: Forever 21, Bracelets: Lub Lub by LS, Boots: Christian Louboutin

This sweater is insanely versatile. I have thrown it on to go out so many times and have thrown it on to lounge around the house just as often. I got it at a sample sale in New York a few years ago and I've never looked back.

I wish I could have worn this sweater this weekend to strictly chill in but instead I had a double birthday celebration to attend! The party was actually really fun...but now, I currently am wearing this sweater again....at home...with tea...recovering.

toronto love

2010-11-07T17:13:00.001-08:00

Pink Cobra Fashion Film Summer 2011
(via the katie girls)

Toronto Fashion Week ( aka Toronto Fashion WEAK) may not be the best thing Toronto is known for..but thats not to say that there is not an obscene amount of talented designers in the city.

One of them being Tania Martins behind the line, Pink Cobra. I am obsessing over pretty much all of her pieces from her new Spring 2011 Collection (favourites include the high waisted leather shorts and the over sized turquoise blouse).......and I am even obsessing over the pieces I know I CAN"T wear (pastel pink cut out crop top).

Check out the video to see all the amazing pieces.

i'll follow you forever

2010-11-04T19:02:00.000-07:00

Dress: Max Azria, Purse: Nine West, Ring: Speech

A few of my favourite things at the moment are in these photos: my creamish/white dress that I seem to slip on for every event that I have had to go to over the last 2 months, my new Speech ring that can double as a serious weapon and classic red nailpolish.

halloween

2010-10-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite holidays-HALLOWEEN!...and no it's not just because I have a legitimate excuse to eat chocolate 24/7.
I love getting dressed up, i love haunted houses and i love pumpkins! This year I decided to be poison ivy...although a lot of people thought I was "Eve" and my dad thought I was a plant.

I made my entire costume and here's how:

-Corset and skirt purchased at Zeller's
-Frilly lace tutu thing at the end of the skirt-cut from an old dance costume then dyed with colour dye from the dollar store ( PICTURE 1)
-Frilly lace tutu thing (now green) sewn onto the end of the beige skirt (PICTURE 2)
-All the rhinestones, flowers, headband pieces were from the dollar store and i used my material glue from Michael's to glue each of the rhinestones on and create the headband.
-Nailpolish: China Glaze's Emerald Sparkle with dollar store rhinestones.

Several rage attacks later and VOILA!

......and then on my second night, I decided last minute to be Heidi Montag Post- Surgery.

used to be

2010-10-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

Dress: H&M, Hat: Shotwell, Shoes: Value Village, Purse: BCBG, Foxtail: Gift

There are certain memories from when you were little that you really remember. Your first time on a bike, playing with your barbies, birthday parties at chuckie cheese....and getting your first pair of doc martens. The last memory...I remember much more vividly than the rest.

I remember an older girl in my split class had a maroon pair of Doc Martens and I thought they were just the coolest things. My mom and I looked everywhere for them...and couldn't find them in my size-like so many 'cool' things that I wanted when i was growing up. Man does it ever suck being a borderline smurf and being the shortest and smallest person in your grade. You are really limited. Thankfully my mom and I discovered the best loop hole ever.. that made finding all the cool things like Belbottom jeans and Surf style wind breakers much easier--The Kid's Department.

They were my favourite shoes for a long time...until I finally grew and size 4 did not cut it anymore.

A few weeks ago, however, I scored a pair of Doc Marten Inspired boots. Adult size. Although, they are not official doc's, they make me feel me nostalgic ( a feeling I always like), a little taller ( i'm still short) and ....badass.

at the apple farm

2010-10-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

Shorts: Express, Top: Iros, Sweater: BCBG, Shoes: Native store in Calgary

I thought I was over Moccasins. I had bought a pair at Topshop a few years ago and wore them so many times since then that I couldn't even look at them anymore and swore I would never wear them..or any sort of Moccasins again. Then I saw these little booties at a native store I stumbled upon in Calgary. And I couldn't resist getting another pair.

Lesson learned: never say never.

i want you

2010-10-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

images via christeric

These shots make me yearn for california sunshine, summer, and being carefree.....all things that are becoming growingly distant with winter around the corner and work hours becoming longer.

perfectly placed

2010-10-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

rings: forever 21, bracelet turned ring, low luv

Tried out another Minx pattern from Sephora and I can't tell you how much joy I get out of pretending I did this myself when people ask about it. Well I mean, I DID technically put the sticker on myself.
They stayed on perfectly and the only reason they came off after a full week was because my OCD with changing my nailpolish colour kicked in. One week max is all I have in me until I get bored of the colour/pattern.

I can't even remember what my bare nails look like. I think they deserve a breather one of these days though...that's forsure.

lake louise, shopbop, joie...yesyesyes

2010-10-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Poncho: H&M, Shoes: Madden Girl, Ring: The Bay, Purse: BCBG

I could probabaly write a lengthly novel on the beauty that is Lake Louise. I had the chance to go a few weeks ago and having never been to western canada, I was blown away.

Instead of going on and on and on...I have something else to share that is equally as exciting.

SHOPBOP $100 GIFTCARD GIVEAWAY....for one of my readers.

uh huh.

For those of you familiar with shopbop, you know how lethal this site can be. You can find every sort of designer on here. One label in particular that I enjoy is Joie. You can grab joie dresses, to joie boots, ,to the soft joie. pieces ( love the Morris hooded top).

And if your blog fanatic, they also have a blog for you to stalk- shopbop shoptalk.

What you to have to to win:

-Follow me on Google or Blog Reader. Do it.
-Extra points for tweeters and all that other fun stuff
-leave a comment with your email

I'll pick a winner October 25th.

Ready, set, GO.

livin' in a new world

2010-10-04T17:22:00.000-07:00

Skirt: Forever 21, T-shirt: Express, Shoes: Sam Edelmen, Shawl: Value Village, Necklace: Speech, Clutch: Nine West

last week was a good week..

1. I got this shawl/cape thing from value village for $4.99 and I've worn it 3 days straight. So happy together.
2. I finally decided on a Halloween Costume ( no I will not tell you!)
3. My 9 yr old cousin fishtailed my hair...in like 2 minutes. What a pro! I've been wanting to learn to do this for months now and if she can do it, I'm sure all hope is not lost for me!
4. I went to yoga 3 times. Can I get a what what?
and lastly...
5. October has arrived... which means Thanksgiving! Coloured leaves! Pumpkin Pie season. Heaven

secret garden

2010-09-26T14:45:00.000-07:00

Jean: Parasuco, Top: Lucyd Acyd, Shoes: Michael Kors, Hat: Shotwell, Necklace: Years ago in NYC

Me in our tomato and vegetable garden in our backyard. How obvious is it that I am Italian? I don't think I know one italian who doesn't have a tomato garden in their backyard! I should have taken a picture with one of the "Peppas" (in the words of Jersey Shore's Pauly D) but...Eggplant is my favourite.

So is this top/dress. I wore it as a dress in Vegas (it's allowed in Vegas and don't worry I didn't pull a Britney) but I think around here..it's much more suitable as a top. It also came in black and I am really annoyed at myself that I didn't grab it in black as well. Ugh.

magic pixie dust

2010-09-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

Skirt: forever 21, Shirt: zara, Necklace: Speech, Jacket: H&M

Friday night snapshots.

There is something about taking goofy photos with your friends before a night out, that gets you in the perfect mood to hit the town and get groovy

ring a ling

2010-09-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

I bought a broken hand sculpture from LAB consignment in Toronto the other week. They were using a few of them to display some lovely necklaces and I asked if I could buy one!

The ones on display were not for sale..but the associate said there was one in the basement with a semi broken finger that I could have for $5. Score.

Nothing that some krazy klue couldn't fix. I took it home, re-attached the pinky finger and spray painted it black and now it is a perfect ring holder.

Love.

grey skies

2010-09-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

Revlon-Grey

it's the magical mystery kind.

2010-09-15T20:24:00.001-07:00

Dress: INC, Shoes: Sam Edelman, Necklace: Speech, Purse: BCBG, Sunglasses: Market, Watch: Mom's Ring: Low Luv

I helped my mom clean out her closet on Sunday ( and by clean I mean was forced). We went through a lot of things and made a decision to Keep, Toss, or Store. Until I started liking a few of the things...which then led to a new category called "Give to Marisa". This dress was in that category.

Thanks Lynn.

ps: congrats to la petite fashionista on winning the house of harlow ring!

a new season

2010-09-12T14:29:00.001-07:00

Skirt: H&M, Shirt: Generra, Shoes: Sam Edelman, Jacket: Le Group, Ring: Aldo, Bracelets: Market in Italy, Purse: Roberta Candolfi (Style Sense)

Tights, Socks, Scarfs, Booties...yup it's officially fall here in Canada. And although I am having a hard time dealing with the end of summer, sunshine and leaving work when it's still warm...fall clothes make it a little more tolerable.

I'm a big fan of layering...lots of it...and if any season lets you do just that..it's fall.

red

2010-09-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

if i owned this, i would never take it off

glitzerland

2010-09-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

OPI's Glitzerland. Perfect metallic gold.

roadtripping

2010-09-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

My friends and i took our annual trip to las vegas a few weeks ago and for good measure, i made a pit stop in LA for a few days after ( a girl has got to recover plus I had friends there!). In vegas, naturally, you see a lot of crazy things....weirdos, drunks, crazies, and overall tripppy stuff. I thought this was the be all and end all of weird, freaky things...but then we drove through the dessert from vegas to los angeles and things got weirder. The dessert (at least for me) automatically makes me feel out of my element...in a different world and this dessert ride was quite strange.

We pulled over to switch driving turns at the "jenny rose" restaurant....the road we pulled off on was called "Ghost town" road. It was a Ghost town all right. The restaurant was completely abandoned. It looked like the last time it was open was maybe in the 70's....yet the entire inside was still set up. The cash register was there, all the tables, the plates, pictures. Crazy.

As we drove on, it got weirder. We saw old RV'S with rusty swing sets out front, a donkey beside a shed, dinosaur blow up dolls and the WEIRDEST billboards. After being in vegas I thought my eyes had seen it all, but this ride out did it.

Arriving in Venice felt like I had arrived at a sanctuary. As it always does.

The amazing art pieces were done by one of the people we stayed with. Love.

starry-eyed: house of harlow giveaway!

2010-08-25T13:19:00.001-07:00

I'm kind of biased as to what my favourite jewelry line is as my brother's line (SSSPEECH) is obviously my favourite. One of my favourite celebrity jewelry lines though? Well Nicole Richie's House of Harlow is up there.

And I am so excited to announce that I am giving away the Sunburst Cocktail Ring from their collection on behalf of Designer Apparel!

Designer Apparel is a shopping search engine that carries hundreds of popular brands. You can find anything from popular labels like Prada and Nicole Miller to smaller labels like Magaschoni. Yes yes yes.

How to Enter:
You must be a follower of the blog through Google reader or Blog lovin'.

Leave a comment in the comment section with your name and email address. Contest is open to US & Canadian Residents only and will end September 15th 2010.

wino in white

2010-08-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

top: forever 21, shorts: H&M jacket: elizabeth & james necklace: random from nyc shoes: bcbg

I bought these shorts a few years ago and I have never worn them until...like a few months ago. Not sure why. It's one of those things that I look back on and I'm like "Yesss! I'm so happy I am a hoarder and kept them". Seriously, I need to make an appearance on that show. But in all honestly, I am very glad I kept them tucked in one of my drawers. I have really fallen in love with white denim this summer and these shorts have got some great wear over the last few weeks ( a good part of that is because I am sloppy and have had to throw them into the washer each and every time I sport them).

The weather in Napa was so much hotter than in San Francisco that wearing these shorts in San Francisco would have been very risky. I'm talking 15 degrees hotter. I thoroughly liked venturing to the hotter inland of Napa and Sonoma. As did I enjoy the stunning wineries. If you don't like wine, you should go for the scenery itself. Wow.

looking kind of cute

2010-08-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

image via knightcat

Sienna Miller. Love Magazine
Not sure why but my Sienna obsession is always heightened when she is back with Jude Law.

MK Marie Claire

2010-08-09T20:34:00.001-07:00

Is anyone really surprised that I am utterly obsessed with this image? I don't think I will ever get over the Olsens
Also have been frantically searching for antlers to hang my jewelry on which is why i may like this picture a little more as well

outer space

2010-08-09T20:06:00.000-07:00

Dress: Urban Outfitters Shoes: Sam Edelman Jacket: Danier Leather
Foreign Cinema restaurant in San Francisco combines 3 major loves in my life: food, art & movies.

We dined on Smoked salmon, Alaskan halibut and warm potato salad watching an old Fellini film that was in italian with english subtitles and (it gets better), had the chance to wander into their art gallery with our wine while waiting on dinner. It was as perfect as perfect can be.

....Minus the walk back to the hotel. Walking up-hill in San Francisco is a stroll for some locals I'm sure. In my world...it is equivalent to ...HIKING. Woah!...although for the amount of food I ate that night, a difficult uphill walk was definitely needed.

freaky things

2010-08-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

photo via Fashion Canvas

Pamela Love mood board. All sorts of cool.

the sun was high & so was I

2010-08-05T18:01:00.000-07:00

Blazer: H&M, Shoes: Steve Madden, Necklace: Speech, Bag: BCBG, Jumper: Topshop, Sunnies: Forever 21

I don't think it was possible to actually document a proper outfit post during my trip to San Francisco because I don't think I was ever in a proper outfit. My outfits were constantly being re-worked, switched around, layered, de-layered, and then I rotated this cycle 4 times and then some! This is the doings of what I call San Francisco's Bi-polar weather disorder.

Morning-WARM, sunny, ...Mid Morning-Windy, cool.. Afternoon-PERFECT beautiful weather,... Dinner-FREEZING

Basically I ended up purchasing a lot more than I should have because I kept shopping in the moment ( this is a legit excuse right? I mean-I was preventing sickness?). Although San Francisco's weather cannot make up it's mind, I definitely can...and that is that I am 100% in love with this city.

What do I suffer from? Seasonal Affect Disorder...(when the weather effects your mood-no really I think I do)...so for me to love a city despite it's wild weather...it really says a lot.

peaches & cream

2010-07-29T07:40:00.001-07:00

Revlon-Peach

Oh hi perfect summer shade that I will wear for the remainder of the summer ( omg-is summer really half way done? NOOOOOOOOO)

teeny tiny

2010-07-26T17:14:00.000-07:00

Dress: Urban Outfitters Shoes: Sam Edelman Jacket: Danier Leather Belt: Thrifted

I like anything tiny. Tiny tea cups, tiny hamburgers, tiny ice cream cones, tiny people..the list can go on and on. When i saw the tiny flowers on this dress, I immediately added this to my list. I like how they are so miniscule that if you saw the dress from far away, you would barely know it was a flower yet you can kind of make them out against the bright turquoise.

I also like tiny prices- I got it on the Urban Outfitters sale rack for $29.99!

climb halfway to the stars

2010-07-21T17:56:00.000-07:00

Skirt: Forever 21 Jacket: Danier Leather, Bag: Asos Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Socks: American Apparel Headpiece: Lara Vincent Top: Topshop

If you're going to San Francisco...make sure to wear some flowers in your hair.....

and that I did.

many shades of black

2010-07-18T19:59:00.001-07:00

Skirt, Shirt & Necklace: Forever 21, Boots: Steve Madden, Bag: streets of nyc

I have a hard time breaking away from classic black bags...if I do switch a purse, its normally onto another black one. This brown purse, however, makes the transition quite easy. I love the colour of the leather...and anything that looks a little worn in, is something I enjoy. It also has over 7 little compartments with zippers inside and if you have a tendency to lose things as easily as I do, this is great.

Here's to incorporating new shades into one's wardrobe!

How to make a pretty camera strap

2010-07-14T19:19:00.001-07:00

Last week Refinery 29 showed us how one of Teen Vogue's editors, the very cool, Sarah Frances Kuhn, put a twist on the boring look of a black, thick camera strap. When I saw this, I was embarrassed that I haven't discovered this sooner and that I was going out in public with my ugly, suffocating strap. I was just about to order one, when I realized I owned a very cool chain myself and thought I would try it out on my own!

STEP 1
What you will need:
-Pretty chain
-I got this off a Faux Marc Jacobs Stam bag. The bag was killed and ready for the garbage..but the chain was not.

STEP 2
What you will need:
-Scissors
-Shoelaces/String

Cut your Strap off of the camera belts/bungee cords (there is probably an easier way to do this and a way to not ruin your original camera strap but I was impatient)
Cut the shoelace in half and tie the shoelace to the camera belts that are attached to the camera and tie the other end of the shoelace to the chain.

STEP 3
Voila!

And just because I wanted to show off my nails in the process.
Essie's Haute as Helo

eyes on the prize

2010-07-12T05:14:00.000-07:00

Leggings: American Apparel, Necklace: My mom's-vintage, Top: Truly, Madly, Deeply Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell

Finally got my Jeffrey Campbell Xenon Wedges! There has to be something said about a shoe that can make a smurf like me..feel instantly tall...and not hurt my feet in the process. Love.
These are the type of shoes that once I break in (and I did wear them for the first time yesterday), will be worn for days on end, non-stop...until my mom secretly hides them from me in hopes that I will switch shoes so she can clean them ( yes-my mom is a clean freak).

Heading to San Francisco this week...words cannot describe how excited I am.

american vintage

2010-07-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Exit Magazine Spread shot by Cobrasnake modelled by Atlanta de Cadenet Taylor featuring Wildfox

These photos make me long for a roadtrip, the 70's and summer.

mayan ruins

2010-07-06T07:14:00.000-07:00

(via fashion canvas, via bleachblack)
i'd like to have one of these on my shoulders this summer.

delicate dancer

2010-07-04T15:06:00.000-07:00

OPI's Dear Diary
China Glaze's Tinsel

Lately, I have been obsessed with topping any colour with these silver sparkles by China Glaze. Sometimes, a shade of pink, just needs a little something extra.

All across the nation...such a strange vibration

2010-06-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

Shorts: Topshop, Boots: Sam Edelman, Blouse: Value Village, White tank: Jacob, Belt: Forever 21, Shades: Forever 21

My summer plans just got a little better...i just found out that I will be heading to San Francisco July 15th-20th. I went once before but did not have nearly enough time there so I cannot wait to explore the city a little more!

Who has some good restaurant/bar (looking for some live jazz)/vintage store recommendations? Or better yet....who is there and wants to meet up?!

Holler

you like music we can dance to

2010-06-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

Blouse: Zara, Jean Overalls: Guess, Shoes: Style Sense Shades: Initium Bag: BCBG Earrings: Elizabeth & James

I used to be a dancer. Since I was 3 until my late teens, i did the works-jazz, acro, tap, ballet...but if you saw how ungraceful I am on my feet, you would never guess I was (I am that girl who trips constantly). This clumsy trait of mine is reflected in the state of my shoes. No matter how many times I clean them, take them to the shoe maker for repair-they still look like they got trampled by a herd of bulls-especially after a night of dancing!

These wedges are a prime example. I bought them a month ago and I already had to take them to my shoe maker Nunzio (yes- I am on a first name basis with my shoe repair guy) because the strap came off!

I am glad they are fixed though..because they..are...so...COMFY! You may be seeing them in a lot of future posts ...if, of course, they live another few months.

Blue jean baby, LA lady

2010-06-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

Vintage Kate from Glamour France 1992

Woah.

the grass is really greener

2010-06-22T05:23:00.001-07:00

Dress: Mara Hoffman, Necklace: Speech, Shoes: Dollhouse Sunglasses: Forever 21

since laying eyes on the Miu Miu bird pattern, i've been obsessed with animal print everything. and i don't mean leopard ( but that of course is always a small obsession). I'm talking birds, cats and bunny print.

I tried to get the Zara cat print romper....sold out. Then there was Nasty girl's feline print dress. Also sold out. (I'd link to both of these but it will make me dwell that I don't own them). Then, i even attempted to paint my nails with the Miu Miu bird pattern like Stop it right now did. All attempts failed

When i went to the Mara Hoffman sample sale in New York a month ago, I fell hard for this green print dress and was not letting another animal get away so easily

"It's tiny mis-shaped elephants! Oh-Em-Geeeee..so you!" said the sales clerk in his high pitched voice.

I don't think they are elephants (my vote is on an octopus or a body builder with no head) and I knew him for a whole 30 seconds..but whatever this little creature was...it was not escaping.

last chance for romance

2010-06-16T21:15:00.000-07:00

Cool rings on Pamela Love.

Well now that I got your attention....I want you to know that it's your LAST CHANCE to enter the Perricone Starter Kit Contest!

Enter here by leaving a comment

The breakdown of what's included if you win? It includes Nutritive Cleanser, Advanced Face Firming Activator, Vitamin C Ester Eye Area Therapy, and Ceramic Skin Smoother! Yes..forreals

It's an amazing package and if your not familiar with Perricone products, its a great chance to test it out. Your skin will like you a lot.

Here in the streets of American nights

2010-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

2nd photo-Jacket: Danier Leather, Shorts: Value Villiage t-shirt: Venice Beach Boardwalk, Boots: Steve Madden
4th photo-my friend. Top & Skirt: American Apparel.
6th & bottom photo- Blazer: Elizabeth & James, Shoes: Baker's, T-shirt: Blue notes, Socks: American Apparel, Bag: BCBG

Some snaps from my time in New York a few weeks ago.

I wish that...

1. New York was an hour drive away
2. Magnolia Cupcakes delivered.
3. Green card Visas were given away like hotcakes to Canadians that really wanted them
4. I could put the love I have for New York into words

dark secrets

2010-06-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

Chic Prints by OPI for Sephora mixed by Minx

Was very excited to try the whole Minx thing out and Eee! They live up to the hype. At least for me.

I remember when I got my braces off for the first time...I kept feeling my teeth. They felt so...different.
And that's how I have been with my nails. I keep petting them excessively. So silky & smooth (until you reach the edges that is-i did a horrible filing job)
It's also been fun telling others that I did this myself. HA.
One day my friends..one day..

cosmic love

2010-06-07T07:05:00.001-07:00

shoes: sam edelman necklace: speech t-shirt: chronicles of never bracelets: assortment from F21, thirfted and markets shorts: value village socks: american apparel belt: marni

I spent the weekend getting some R&R-taking in the summer heat, reading, day dreaming, eating good food, wishing it was summer all year round..pretending the evergreens in my backyard were palm trees.

I got my new speech necklace last week and it hasn't left my neck since.
And I swear I am not just saying that because the designer is my brother.

When he first started designing these, there was several morphed crosses all around our house and large black wooden ones in the garage (used for the shoot). Needless to say my catholic parents were very scared and I felt like our house was haunted...but the final product was damn worth it!

Movin' to the country..gonna eat me a lot of peaches

2010-06-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

China Glaze-Peachy Keen

Also-don't forget about the Perricone Starter Kit giveaway!
This starter kit is an exclusive package that is not available online!
Enter here until June 16th 2010

MKO

2010-06-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

I was in New York last weekend.
My friend & I took a last minute getaway for the Canadian long weekend and within an hour of being there-we were within metres of Mary Kate Olsen. Are you jealous yet?

I know it sounds awfully cliche to say that MK is a personal favourite style icon....but I'm sorry, she is.

We were on a quiet Soho street (just off Mott) and I was pierced by this amazing brown bag that this tiny little girl was sporting. I looked up to see it was MK and immediately my jaw fell open. I found the bottom pic from OlsenAnonymous where you can actually see the bag!

searching the streets for a soul commity

2010-05-26T17:19:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Danier Leather Headband: American Apparel Skirt: Carte Blance Tank: Aritiza Bracelets: Market in Italy, Forever 21, Thifted

I think I may have been an animal in my past life.
Besides being magnetically drawn to puppies and dogs of all sorts, I love sporting animal ears whenever I get the chance.
When I was at coachella, I ran to the headband mouse ears and ripped the package open like an excited child getting a new toy. Another few weeks later, and I got me some bunny? ears. Not sure what headband animal this reflects...but I toroughly enjoy it.

Roof!

i only see you in shades of blue

2010-05-21T23:06:00.000-07:00

Cheeky Monkey-Get Wet

I found a colour like this when I was travelling through Malaysia a few years ago. Yes, Malaysia. So random. I picked up a bottle for about 80 cent (oh how i love the prices of the east)..and as soon as it started to get clumpy I regretted not buying a whole bunch when I was there. I started seeing this colour creep onto a few blogs but couldnt seem to find it. Then...out of nowhere..I was at a tradeshow for work..when along came this bottle right before my eyes.

It's by Cheeky Monkey...a fairly new brand on the market. Each bottle has a very distictive name ( kind of like OPI) and each bottle (if you go on the website) comes with a drink recipe (oh yes).
The packaging is right up my alley..the only downfall is that you must apply two coats at the bare min...the lacquer is very thin and if you don't want it to chip...I would suggest a top coat.

Either way..I'm just happy I am reunited with this shade again.

skinny love

2010-05-19T21:14:00.001-07:00

enter the perricone contest below. chloe says so

sun for the soul & perricone starter kit contest

2010-05-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

Blouse: bcbg, Skirt: Carte Blanche Necklace: Forever 21 Blazer: Wilfred Bag: Bcbg Shades: Forever 21 Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Another giveaway peeps!

Perricone MD, who I teamed up with before, is offering another giveaway for my readers! This time it's a big one...

Valued at $238, you have a chance to win their Perricone Starter Kit.
This includes Nutritive Cleanser, Advanced Face Firming Activator, Vitamin C Ester Eye Area Therapy and Ceramic Skin Smoother. I don't know about any of you but wrinkles and aging skin are my enemy and this seems like it would help. It's actually an exclusive package that isn't available on the website as well!

Simply tell me why you want or need this beautifying little kit. The contest will last for 30 days

They are also offering 75% off some other products!! Click the links below to see the promo code and get the discount!!

Cold Plasma
Fresh Face Starter Kit
Perricone Sale

i know you were on my side even when i was wrong

2010-05-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

My mom is cool.
Love you mom!

day by day

2010-05-07T09:22:00.001-07:00

7:00pm-Go into Shopper's to grab mascara
7:06pm-Pick up new nivea cream.
7:07pm-Realize I dont need new nivea cream. This feels good..will power strong.
7:10pm-Nailpolish aisle begins to eye me
7:15pm-Find myself testing and gawking at all the shades
7:20pm-"Your total is $71.63 miss"
7:22pm-Leave with my head down.

Shopper's is a big black hole. Nailpolish is a bigger one.

Sally Hanson-Gray by Gray

cross all your hands, one finger at a time

2010-05-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

Leggings: American Apparel, Top: Aritzia, Blazer: Jacob, Wedges: Dollhouse, Ring: Bracelet turned into ring by me

I love pieces that have a history and this ring is one of those pieces. It was originally a bracelet and it floated around between my myself, my mom and my brother for years. I'm really not even sure who it originally belonged to but sometimes I would see my Mom sporting it and then a few months later..my brother was wearing it. The last few months..it's been me. Kind of beat up from all the use it has gotten, I spotted it in my bathroom and immediately envisioned it as a ring.

Easily bendable, I twisted it around my finger and have yet to twist it back to original form.

And I don't think I will.

yum yum

2010-04-29T16:41:00.001-07:00

some things i REALLY want

left to right-first line
Jeffrey Campbell Snick Snap Wedges, LaCactus.ca Purse, Jeffrey Campbell Xenox Wedges
left to right-second line
zara lookbook summer 2010, pixie market sweater, finsk shoes from oak nyc, bleachblack X urban outfitters ring, zara lookbook summer 2010

Can you tell that wedges are on my mind?

i've been through the desert on a horse with no name

2010-04-27T05:51:00.001-07:00

Wearing in first photos: Speech Coral Neckace, Forever 21 Necklace, Vintage Tee, Express Shorts

I guess I have almost avoided this post and sum up...in fear of having to come to terms that Coachella is officially over and I really didn't want to accept that. It has also taken me several days to get back to "normal"...whatever that means.

Here it is..

C-cream of the crop of music festivals. Being a music festival virgin, I guess that is a pretty bold statement to say...but I just know that this festival is the best of the best and if I even attempt to go to another one...I will always be like "Well at Coachella..".

O-out of the ordinary. You think you see different kinds of people when you stroll through a big city? Mmm think again. There are all walks of life strolling through the festival grounds and just when you think you have seen weird ( a borat style leopard unitard on a 200 pound man)...you see something weirder ( a guy wearing a turquoise suit with a racoon hat with red sunnies who is giving his girlfriend her own personal light show with glowsticks)

A-adventure. sometimes the best adventures are the ones you don't plan for and if coachella had a middle name...it would be just that.

C-casablancas. If you ever think you are cool, just know that Julian Casablancas is cooler than me and you will ever be.

H-heat. ok so it's the desert..what do you expect? Well whatever you expect...picture it 10 degrees hotter. Next time I will be sporting a different hat each day with an avian spray bottle in my palm.

E-energy. in my previous post, i said there was something in the air in hollywood. well there is also something in the air at Coachella. it's a vibe that you can only really understand if you were there but the vibe keeps you going during that long 10 hour day..it makes you feel like you are high, even when your not. it's inexplainable.

L-love. Whoever you decide to go to Coachella with, know that you will automatically develop a deep love for them. No matter how much the heat, exhaustion and different travel styles get to you ( and cause some bickering)....in the end...you will forever have a bond with these people. You will not forget these 3 days. You will also love the random strangers around you. Its crazy how much music can bring people together. There are people from all over the world, people you will never see again, people you will see again yet what it comes down to is that you both share the love of the music and in that moment..its all that matters.

L-line up. Literal line ups and the line up of the festival. Next year? I'd spend the extra money for VIP or a driver to take us to and from the polo grounds ( our getting lost and losing each other is a whole other subject). Lines up of the festival? I think many would agree that it was one of the best Coachella has seen. It was a perfect mix of mainstream and underground music...rap, modern electric pop, djs, and classic rock. I developed faith in bands I didn't think I cared for...I realized I should appreciate bands more that I did already care for...and I realized that Jay Z and Beyonce together was a moment that I would never probably experience again (guilty of loving the power couple immensely)

A-auqa. in italian that means water. Whereever you choose to stay during the festival, make sure your place has a pool and a shower. You will appreciate a hot (or cold) shower after a day spent at the festival. It will feel like the best thing that has ever happened to you. And your feet will be happy too.

Bottom line....I think I left a piece of my heart buried in the desert sand.

See you next year..xo

paradise lost

2010-04-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

SPEECH paradise lost collection launch party.
Dark and eery. Probably the best collection to date..

fear and loathing in los angeles

2010-04-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

1. our LA residence. marilyn monroe used to stay here and i swear it is haunted with old ghosts of hollywood. i ran down the hall getting ice because it was freaky.
2. me and my friend jenna jumping on furniture in the hotel that isn't meant to be jumped on.
3. frolicking on the beach with my friend danielle.
4. sunset blvd. note: don't drive down here at 5pm. traffic galore.
5. being goofy
6. wandering around venice beach...one of my fave cali areas.
7. there is something in the air in....hollywood. madonna was onto something when she said there is something in the air in this city. it grabs you and it makes you want to stay. at least for us.

Will have a Coachella post coming soon....not sure I can fully sum up that portion of the trip just yet.
Right now all i can say is...Bonkers. Im sure once I get back to reality and look at pictures I will have more words.

ride to california

2010-04-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

dress: asos shoes: aldo necklace: forever 21 purse: asos

Am officially in love with LA. I have only been here for over 48 hours and already have enough stories to write a book.
I am not sure if its the beautiful weather or the vibe of the city that makes me want to cancel my ticket home.

We are heading to coachella on friday and i am uper excited since i have never been to a music festival before! Will try to post again during my time here...

april

2010-04-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

some of my favourite blogger looks from over the last month
-fashion squad
-fashion toast
-o style
-vanilla scented
-fashion toast part 2
-...and my favourite....from the satorialist. ha! so cute.

excuse me while i kiss the sky

2010-04-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

Shoes: Baker's skirt: buffalo, purse: bcbg top: DIY by me

Painting, cooking...and now apparently tie dye are on my list of things to AVOID. I seriously harm myself each time I try to do any of these activities and was actually worried that my hands would be permanent blue for life. Thank you bleach.

As soon as I saw the Proenza Schouler look on style.com from S/S 2010...I pulled a Joey Lawrence and was like "WOAH". I loved it. And wanted it. When Whowhatwear did a post on how to make a DIY version of the top...I was down and immediately got to work.

It took about an hour and a half to fully complete it...and although my hands suffered for a bit...it was quite worth it and I was happy with the results. Follow the Whowhatwear instructions to try it out!

i change shapes just to head in this place

2010-03-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Dress: French Connection Shoes: Christian Louboutin Necklace: Mom's Rings: Mom's & Tiffany's

I was never into online shopping....until recently that is. Now I can't stop.
The daily emails from sites like haute look and gilt groupe make it really difficult to NOT open...to NOT click purchase...to NOT have willpower. Oy.
Some of the deals are insanely fantastic and this french connection dress was one of them ( the shipping did kill the deal a bit tho). I recommend everyone checking the sites out if you haven't already!

Went out to see Craig Kielburger speak last night and it was a very touching night. I mean.. a few glasses of wine may have made me tear up more normally than usual as well but nonetheless, Craig is a very inspiring young guy.

He really touched on the fact that even though we are only one person we CAN make a difference in the world. My favourite line was to do "small things with great love". It's so true.

Lovely night.

black & white

2010-03-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

Dress: Arden B Jacket: Danier Shoes: Aldo Clutch: DSW

This is one of my favourite dresses...for many reasons.
1. it is no surprise i love mini dresses
2. black and white always is cool in my books
3. sequins
4. it always comes with me on trips as that 'can always count on you' dress
5. i got it on sale-75% off kind of sale a few years ago

Also-have been in the process of spring cleaning the last few weeks and decided to start selling some of my stuff!

SHOP CEST GIRL SO CHIC

taste of paradise

2010-03-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

my brother's new collection...launching April 9th.

a little sneak peak. get lost in.."a paradise lost"

check out a behind the scenes video of his new shoot here

little leprechauns

2010-03-17T18:04:00.000-07:00

Happy St. patrick's day!

Irish I didn't have to work.

Nicole by OPI-Faux Fur

desert sins

2010-03-15T17:38:00.001-07:00

vegas adventures included:
eating way too many sliders, going into a dive casino, being eye harassed at dive casino, linking arms in fear at dive casino, unwashed makeup, 57th floor views, cheap margaritas, shopping while tipsy, acting professional and attending seminars during morning hours, hotel bathrobes, movie premieres, long walkathons in heels, vegas sunlight, connecting in blackjack, withdrawl from blackjack, making smiley facial expressions with our blackjack chips, catnaps, strong coffees, playing with our automatic drapes, being inspired....

it felt good to be out of the rain

2010-03-13T07:47:00.001-08:00

Shoes: Aldo Purse: Faux Louis Vuitton *sorry jo* Jacket: Danier Shirt: Elizabeth & James Skirt: Forever 21

Got home from vegas late, late last night.....and woke up feeling like i just got slipped a sleeping pill and got hit over the head with a sledge hammer. is there any other way to feel when you just returned from vegas?
although my trip was 'business' related..i still indulged in numerous vices and was on the go ( and on my feet) for the entire 4 days.
the pictures above are from a dinner out. we headed to the mandarian oriental for some asian food (MOzen bistro to be exact) and i would recommend the restaurant to any visiting foodie out there. the constant noise of slot bells combined with the large tourist bus groups made me appreciate the silence and ambiguity of both this hotel and restaurant. it was quiet, it was sleek and sexy and there wasn't many flashing lights.

i had a zen moment with the food and hotel.... but did a 360 once the cheque arrived. I began twitching for the blackjack tables.
Thats the thing about vegas...it sucks you in. Even when you think your out...it still has you.
Viva..

bliss

2010-03-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

These, my friends, are my travel necessities.

On Sunday I am taking off to Las Vegas and I decided to pack tonight.

1. I love all these products but my favourite/will never leave home without is Moroccan Oil. If you haven't tried it...you must. It's like crack for your hair. I also like packing all these things in my purse incase I want to freshen up at the airport. Everybody could use some bronzer at 8am. Flower case from MJ perfume could be left at home..but it's too pretty to not be placed in a hotel bathroom.
2. Since I don't normally wear earrings, I make up for it by bringing most of my ring collection.
3. Lastly, I pack enough nail polishes to open a small salon. Probably the most irrational thing of all three habits...but what if my colour chips, what if I want to wear a dark purple colour....these are the things I think...and I like being prepared...and I am addicted to nailpolish. Period.
Colour in picture-OPI-Lucky, Lucky Lavender

Hope to blog from Vegas
.........if I can tear myself away from the blackjack tables.

lace & whiskey

2010-03-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

image via knightcat

i would like this in my closet.

cold plasma

2010-02-28T19:54:00.001-08:00

Top: Topshop, Dress: Jacob Socks: H&M

Who likes free stuff? I know I do...

Perricone skin products would like to give one of my readers a free product ( Cold Plasma to be exact).

Their products are insanely good....and have been featured on Oprah. If Oprah backs it up...I back it up!

All you have to do is comment and tell me why you need this....Ooo and leave your email address while your at it.

If you are into eating healthy before summer starts up...also check out perricone 3 day diet

I'll pick a winner by March 15th!

shake it like a ladder to the sun

2010-02-22T18:41:00.000-08:00

Shorts: Old guess jeans Blouse: zara cardigan: Zara Necklace: Speech, Shoes: Sam Edelman, Scarf: Topshop, Sunnies: Forever 21
When Zara brought out these cardigans in 2008...I bought one in grey, black and beige. When I find basics that I love....I stalk up. The only thing I regret is actually not buying duplicates of each. Ok fine..that is a little extreme but my black one is getting bally and that means I'm getting pissed.
It was a gorgeous day yesterday...so I thought I would take advantage of it and i'm glad I did. Today we got over 12 inches of snow. Joy.

ate my heart

2010-02-19T18:07:00.000-08:00

Dress: French Connection Shoes: Jessica Simpson

I've spent months looking for a sequin beaded dress for my new years eve night (way back in December-i know). I had my eyes on the Twenty8Twelve green sequin dress that Sienna Miller wore to the MTV awards and was determined to get it. I called everywhere until I eventually contacted their PR company.

"Oh-it's actually not sequin---it's stavrovski crystals"

In other words...this meant that unless I wanted to take out a serious loan and live off canned soup for the next 15 years, I would never see the dress.

I ended up getting over the dress and found this cute sequin number from French Connection. It was originally a little longer but give this girl some glue and she can do wonders ( no seriously-i bought super glue at my hotel and went bonkers). It was also 50% off which made it all the more appealing.

WIsh I got better pictures but new years eve drinks plus seeing lady gaga make it very difficult to concentrate
XO

rouge

2010-02-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

when i put on this colour...i immediately felt like i was wearing Dorothy's red sparkly pumps on my nails. the pictures actually make the shade look more red than it was...regardless, it was very fitting for valentine's day. thank you China Glaze for this stunning festive colour.
la la la love.

there is a light that never goes out

2010-02-10T14:12:00.000-08:00

top: forever 21, skirt: forever 21 ring: gift

I will not shop. I will not shop. I will not shop.
A little FYI to those of you who believe in brainwashing...it does not work.

I had to drop off my parents at the airport in Buffalo ( an hour from where I live-US terrority though). Somewhere between the airport and heading back to the border to cross back into Canada, I found myself in Target. You know rage blackouts? Well apparently there are shopping black outs as well. I veered off the highway and the last thing I remember is asking the sales person if they had any Rodarte pieces left. Second time in a month. Seriously Target, can you just come to Canada so this madeness will end?

From Target, I stopped at forever 21 and found the top Im wearing and knock off Marc Jacob shades that I have been eyeing for ages. Sorry Marc-but unless you want to wire me $300...I have to succumb to the knock offs buddy!

Was real satisfied with this top as well. I normally never purchase anything that is made in Viscose/Spandex but I couldnt disqualify a top with shoulder detailing as fun as this. Basically on Friday night, I spent a good portion of my night doing dance moves that resembled a mexican salsa dancer.

At least something good came out of it

WANT > NEED

2010-02-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

images via :vanillascented & opening ceremony
alexander wang shorts, acne shoes, alexander wang sunnies

gimme.it.all

perfectly at peace so i move along a little bit higher

2010-02-03T17:11:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Cole Hann Dress: Black Halo Shoes: Christian Louboutin Ring: Topshop Scarf: Market

I've wanted to take pictures outside for a while now because as much as I hate winter...it is quite pretty ( ask me this when I am standing outside in -20 air filling up my car tank and my view may be a tad different). I live in an area of the city which is a little secluded....where deer casually walk around on your front lawn...and sometimes also eat your vegetables in your garden in the summer but that is a whole other issue.

Needless to say...I took pictures outside..... but only made it 3 feet outside my house and not to any of the other locations I pass that have me in awe. Soon I hope..

Also, Nokia UK was generous enough to send me the new Nokia Nseries to use for a bit and test out. Being a tech junkie, I happily obliged. Ever since, I have felt like i am right off the set of 'Gossip girl....for some reason this phone reminds me of the show. I love how you can flip the screen up and there lies a mini keyboard. Feels like my laptop and phone in one. If i wasn't already in a happy relationship with my blackberry, I would probably just keep it. Sexy little gadget...

24 hour champagne diet

2010-01-28T18:02:00.000-08:00

“A long time ago, I immersed myself in Miami. I have yet to come up for air” – Avner Zabari, Furniture Designer

I don't think he could have nailed it more. Over the holidays, I went to south beach. I'm surprised I made it out alive. Or with any sort of money.

We filled up our days with poolside drinks and food, people watching, star-gazing, cabanas, heavy duty games of "is that her boyfriend or dad", ed hardy counts, and relaxation. We filled up our nights with.... well the same...minus the relaxation. We had an obscene amount of fun and I don't think I have ever laughed so hard in my life.

The above is a random sum up of my trip....

turf wars

2010-01-24T14:14:00.000-08:00

Dress: Rodarte for Target, Shoes: Bakers, Jacket: from italy, Necklace: Gifted

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Well if thats the case...so is this dress.

On one of the colder days while on vacation in Florida, my family and I ventured into Target hoping to find left over Rodarte pieces. I was looking for the dress in my pictures (yes..i'm giving away the happy ending), my brother was looking for the leopard bow backed dress......for his girlfriend.

Like dogs sniffing for drugs, we ran through the aisles anxious to find what we were looking for. I was beginning to feel let down when all of a sudden I saw my brother carrying my dress! The one dress that was left! yes yes yes!

No.No.No...Wrong.

"Well i can't find the leopard dress so I think i'll just get this one for her" he says....casually...as if I would be cool with it.

A few words were exchanged and I begin to excessively pout/rage, whatever you would like to call it.....until I saw the leopard bow back dress hidden behind a rack. I grabbed it faster than you could say boo, dangled it over my shoulder and strutted to the changeroom.....making sure my brother could see me perfectly. I actually had no intention to buy it but...duty calls.

I tried it on and pretended I was going to get it for a solid half hour....until he began to pace in circles around me.

It's all fun and games.... until Rodarte is involved.

midnight kiss

2010-01-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

Brand: ZOYA Name: KOTURI

I wore this colour excessively over the holidays. When I looked at my hands, thoughts of winter wonderland, blue ice, snow and sparkle dust came to my mind. Can you guess how many times I dressed up as a fairy princess when I was little? haha.

I just love the shade of blue...not too dark, not too light....and i love how it has the perfect amount of glitter. Although I got a few odd looks from my traditional italian relatives, I felt it was fitting for the festive season. And a few weeks after.