This week has been busy--my own doing--with something happening every night. I don't usually jam pack my schedule, but this week just ended up that way and now I have a weekend with very little plans planned and that's quite alright with me.
On Monday and Wednesday I met up with a friend and we worked out.
I painted my nails with OPI's, 'Mod About You' which is a milky pink that's really pretty but, it's similar to an opaque white where, once it starts to chip, it looks really bad, really fast.
More photos after the jump...
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Last week, Marco took me out for my first Ramen experience. We went to Ginza in Chinatown for a casual meal to round out the long weekend.
More photos after the jump...
A few weeks ago I had a really bad day.
Like, really bad.
One that ensued multiple sessions of tears and I just felt emotionally drained. I briefly touched on it in a blog post and someone scoffed commenting something along the lines of, 'Yeah, like your life is so stressful'.
I wanted to talk about this today because like anyone else, I have heartache, emotional ups and downs and while things might look just rosy here, it's not like that all day, err day.
So yes, I had a horrible day, and I cried and it sucked. I vented to my friends, to Marco and had to ride the wave until I decided to push it out of my mind for the next couple days and try to enjoy that weekend.
I'm sharing this because while I try to keep it pretty positive here, there are definitely days where I wake up and kind of just want to stay in bed. I'm not going to post misery and negative rants on here because that's not what you come here for, and that's not really me. I want to share enjoyable experiences, a cool shopping find I'm loving or mini success moments in hopes it inspires someone. I love hearing that you enjoy coming here and hanging out--I know for me, reading blogs is a big happiness part of my day, every day.
All that aside, I want you to know that you are important, and good, and special and we all experience pain and sorrow in our lives, and you are not alone. I have been so low before it felt I would never feel happy again. I have had a hard time picking myself up, getting dressed, and just leaving my apartment. A hard time talking to someone, anyone, without crying. Being so low I could barely crack a smile.
The best part? It was temporary, all pain is. So, if you're having bad day, a bad week, a bad month, or maybe it feels like this just isn't your year, I'm sending you a BIG HUG through the Internet. A big, freaking bear hug. You don't have to smile today, maybe not tomorrow, but know that your smile will soon return, naturally and this too, shall pass.
Related posts:
Last weekend was one for the books for sure. We left work early on Friday and 15 of us drove up to Fiddler Lake in Quebec where we rented one of the many cottages (Le Harfang) for Marco's friend's birthday. I think I speak for all 15 when I say we were all pleasantly shocked at how beautiful the cottage was, but more on that later.
We left mid afternoon on Friday, in separate cars, and drove through the beautiful Quebec countryside. It was just under two hours to get there and it was a perfect day for it.
When we arrived, the writing on the wall was clear was the plan was for the whole weekend.
Many more photos after the jump...
One day, a few months back, a friend and I were emailing and I asked her if she had any suggestions for dinner. She suggested her signature recipe: Thai chicken lettuce wraps.
Since then, it's not only become a go-to and something I make quite frequently, but also something I whip out for guests as well--and it's always a hit. I'd love to share the simple recipe with you...
Click for more (photo overload)...
Outfit deets:
* Joe Fresh dress (old) which you've seen with tights and booties in the winter.
* Accessories: Le Chateau cuff, MK bangle (gift), Gucci shades & Sirens necklace.
I have a bit of a problem finding dressing that are long enough for me #tallgirlproblems, so what I like to do sometimes is wear a snug fitting (cotton) skirt underneath to lengthen the dress and make it more work appropriate.
That said, I certainly would prefer to find dresses long enough, however, people often think the skirt is part of the dress--which is kind of the point, and a win-win--and bonus, it helps get more mileage out of your clothes.
Photos by Serena Rivard.
A couple other posts with a skirt under a dress:
* Twirl
Sorry for the radio silence yesterday, we had a Civic holiday in Canada so I took the day "off" to relax, spend time with family and most importantly, celebrate my nephew's birthday! I've got a ton of photos to share with you, so without further adieu, onto the snaps...
On Friday I took my car in for an oil change an stopped and picked up a little treat for breakfast while I waited (Tim Hortons bagel belt, on a 12 grain, with bacon, hold the cheese & a steeped tea).
Outfit deets: Mondetta tank & Harbinger gloves.
Click for more...
Marco and I hit up the new Central Bierhaus in Kanata to try out their sausages and massive selection of beer the other day and it did not disappoint.
After being greeted, via sign, in German, you're led through the massive, industrial pub to either a large booth, a long picnic-style table or a half booth (they also have a great outdoor, covered, patio). We got the latter and sat near the back, close to the massive big screen and open kitchen.
Click to see more...
So July has come and gone and we are heading into August, which I love because we are still in warm, sunny, summer months but Fall fashion starts making an appearance in stores and not that I want to wish away this weather, but I'm a big Autumn fan.
In July I celebrated Canada Day, filmed several videos (Summer Trends 2014, Katy Perry Concert Recap, a Canada Vlog, fashion haul with a few higher-end purchases, a date night with Marco Vlog, the Bruno Mars Concert recap & What's in My Purse), and tried my hand at making chia seed pudding.
I kept up with my workout schedule, ate at El Camino, Pure Gelato & Tennessy Willems. I spent weekend time with a friend on a patio (and shopping!), played tennis with my guy and shared one of my favourite outfit posts.
I showed you our 'finished' living room (is it ever really finished?), went to the Katy Perry concert, and bought some new Supra kicks. Sarah sent me flowers when I was not feeling well, Marco and I went to Kingston for the day (and brought Peanut with us) and saw Bruno Mars in concert.
Related posts:
I have a few friends, in their thirties, who have done it and everyone says the same thing, 'It makes you look.... refreshed'.
I have enjoyed seeing their results--which have been really nice yet subtle, to be honest--and curiously picking their brains about the procedure, cost and of course, how badly does it hurt?!
While I'm not sure for myself, I am definitely not ruling it out a few years down the road. At the same time, the thought is scary because it's your face. I want to age gracefully, through preventative measures (SPF every day, staying out the sun, being physical active & getting plenty of sleep... that last one doesn't really apply to me) but let's be honest, it's happening whether we like it or not.
I'd love to hear your thoughts, if you've tried it before or even if you are totally against it and your reasons. Sound off in the comments below!
An update after the jump...
Outfit deets:
* Garage kimono cardigan which you saw in the my last outfit post (with a leather skirt) because clearly I have no other clothes to wear.
* H&M tank with a low back which I wore to Taco Fest.
* Paige white denim which have quickly become my favourite pair of pants and I'm convinced this is the brand I should buy from now on... except the price point.
* Accessories: Le Chateau cuff & 'Hope' necklace by Emily Elizabeth jewellery.
When I first bought this kimono-like cardigan in beige, I was a little uncertain about it being so... house-coat-ish? Despite loving the look on other girls, it felt weird at first wearing this out of the house, despite the sweater-like material. However, like most trends when you try them there is often an awkward, 'Can I really pull this off?' phase that will usually pass once you arrive at your destination.
This was no different, and even when I purchased the black, got it home and realized it was about 6 inches longer than the beige colour, despite it being the same size, I again felt a little odd rocking it for the first time. And then again, after the first wear it almost becomes old hat and voila! you've made a trend your friend and can rock it with confidence.
Ever feel slightly out of place in your new duds at first?
Photos by Serena Rivard.
I feel like the weekend kicked off on Thursday, despite having to work on Friday, because we went to the Bruno Mars concert...
More photos & deets after the jump...
Today I'm sharing my newest video as the Place d'Orleans Fashion vlogger: Summer Trends!
I took several trips to PDO to cultivate this haul, trying to nail down some of Summer's hottest trends this year. I've already shared a few of my finds, like the printed slouchy pants, the heather blue t-shirt dress and the LWD (little white dress). Press play to see the other items I scored and am loving for the season.
As always, thanks for watching! xo
Related posts:
* 2013 Summer Trends (from last year)
I'm finally sharing some photos of our finished living room. We ordered the couch a month before we moved, waited four months and it arrived at the beginning of July. Since then, we've sold the previous furniture, given my parents the end tables and moved the kitchen table into the room (it was originally in that nook space off the kitchen).
Something I really like about our place is how neutral and bright it feels. Normally I would cringe at almost-white walls but I really love that it's so airy. I feel like my last apartment was such a tiny space, with so much stuff crammed into it, it's nice to have more of a minimalistic feel here (but trust that every nook, cranny and drawer is stuffed to the brim!).
We are now on the hunt for a rug to fill out the space, and I'm thinking a shag, but unsure of the colour. I also think an arch floor lamp would be awesome in the back corner behind the couch and then we could get rid of that Ikea paper one in the corner by the tv. Any suggestions on the colour for the rug? I love white but it's probably not realistic, especially with a little black feline prancing around (or life in general, ha!).
See the view looking the other way & furniture deets after the jump...
Outfit deets:
* Urban Planet sweater which you've seen in my Pre-Spring Trends Try-On video.
* Vintage (thrifted) suede skirt which you've seen a long time ago with a grey leather jacket.
* Zara basic sandals which you've seen with a palm printed coat, burgundy pants & skinny jeans.
* Accessories: Material Girl cuff, Deux Lux bag, Alfred Sung sunnies & Spring midi ring.
Hey guys, thanks for popping in to hang out for a minute. Some of you have been leaving me some really nice comments lately while some people have not been following the, 'If you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all'-adage.
I love blogging and connecting with you all. I have said it before, and I'll say it again: my life is not perfect, I have hardships, emotions and difficult days. What I share here is meant to be positive, uplifting and generally enjoyable for anyone who might stumble over here (or check in on the daily because I know some of you are simply awesome like that). I don't expect everyone to like me or agree with what I'm doing or how I'm living. That said, I do expect everyone to be respectful and kind. I try to treat everyone I encounter with respect and kindness and if my blog isn't your cup of tea, no need to be nasty, simply move on to something that is.
On the flip side, to the reader friends who have been here for a long time, or a short time, and leave the sweetest comments, sometimes even defending comments, or simply enjoy my blog silently, thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Putting yourself out there on the Internet is going to cause some drama, at some point, and I love that you have my back and enjoy this space. That makes me want to continue and share and be here too.
For now, I have changed the comment settings so you will have to sign in if you would like to comment. I know a lot of you leave positive comments under anon, so I'm sorry to remove that option for the time being. You can always send me an email or tweet me (@acoest1984) if you'd like. BIG HUG and thanks for reading.
Photos by Serena Rivard.
I'm finally got around to editing the vlog footage from a couple weekends (July 4 - 6) ago so here we go. In this vlog Marco and I go out to eat, we hit the gym, have my parents for dinner and I show a bit of my messy closet. We head out to a movie and sing a little in car (cringe!).
Thanks for watching!
You can subscribe to my YouTube channel here, if you'd like.
On Friday night I got home and had a headache and a pretty awful day, so I got into my comfy clothes and watched some YouTube in bed. I decided to whip up some thai chicken lettuce wraps (recipe coming soon!) since I had some chicken in the fridge once I started feeling hungry.
Outfit deets: 90 Degree by Reflex tank, MPG leggings, Velocity sports bra & Nike Free 3.0.
I chatted with a girlfriend and since Marco was away for the weekend with some friends, I decided to lift my spirits and hit the gym. I had a good workout and came home and edited my Katy Perry footage into a mini recap video of the concert.
More photos after the jump...
Outfit deets:
* Garage kimono sweater which you've seen in a sand colour and on the weekend (in the sand colour).
* Joe Fresh tank.
* Vintage leather skirt (thrifted years ago & made in Canada which I thought was pretty cool).
* Iro heels.
* Accessories: Urban Planet necklace, Gucci sunglasses, Aldo & Michael Kors bangles.
I know I'm wearing these shoes a lot, which is pretty unlike me as I like to rotate through as much as possible, but I can't get enough of them. You know they're good when you wear them multiple times per week and want to pair them with everything.
This is what I wore when I went out to Tennessy Willems the other night, but was coming from work so there was no outfit change. I cannot get enough of black on black and while I used to feel so strange wearing it in the summer, now I can't seem to get enough. Lately I have been gravitating towards neutrals and simple silhouettes; it's all I want to wear!
That said, I love being able to pair some of my warmer weather neutral pieces together to achieve a summer appropriate look. For instance, leather shorts (or a skirt like this) with a tank or white pants with a grey sleeveless blouse. I used to poke fun at my mom's wardrobe which is chronically black and white, and now, it seems I'm following directly in her footsteps!
Photos by Melissa via my iPhone.
Last night, Melissa and I got together again for dinner and this time hit up Tennessy Willems in Hintonburg. She had never been, so like our outing two weeks ago at El Camino, it was a first time experience.
Now, I have been to this place before, and had take-out as well and the gourmet wood oven pizza is seriously amazing, the salads are fresh and unique and the drink list isn't expansive but will likely suit whatever it is your looking for.
Read on...
Outfit deets:
* Thrifted top from several years ago (it's one of those poly-blend tops from the 90's that has a boxy shape).
* Banana Republic skirt (thrifted).
* Iro heels which you've seen with overalls, with slouchy pants, on the weekend and when I first purchased them.
* Accessories: Suzy Shier necklace, Deux Lux bag, Material Girl sunglasses & Old Navy bangle.
Hello! So sorry about the radio silence for the past couple days, I have been a little busier than normal in the evenings the past two days.
The most exciting of it was attending the Katy Perry concert last night which was amazing. I'm not a die-hard KP fan, and although her music is fun and catchy, I'm more of a hip-hop / rap / EDM / trap-music lover. That said, what a show! Girl can put on quite the performance and ever since seeing her documentary two years ago, I have developed quite the taking to her. Her concert did not disappoint and it was such a fun evening. I did take some video so will share that this weekend once I can edit it altogether.
As far as the outfit is concerned, I love black and navy together (here's another super old post wearing the combo). I know it's not for everyone, but I'm a huge fan of both colours, even separately. This outfit is fairly simple and plain, but it works for work and the colour pairing is somewhat unexpected which adds a touch of edge.
Photos by Serena Rivard.
I did a bit of shopping recently so am sharing a few new purchases, some of which you've already seen on the blog (linked below) and others that are even newer and I haven't yet worn.
Thanks for watching! xo
Things I mentioned:
Outfit deets: Dynamite blazer, BCBG top, Sirens envelope / origami skort, Iro heels & Aldo clutch.
On Friday night I hit the gym after work which brightened my spirits after a slightly stressful week at work. I went home and got ready for date night with Marco and he picked me up around 8pm which was sweet--it felt like 'old times' where I'm getting ready on my own and he's waiting for me. It was also the first time I'd really seen him since he returned from California since I was dead asleep when he got home.
We went to Milestones, had drinks, appetizers and caught up on our week apart during an amazing dinner. It was so nice to be out and catching up. I had the California salad with chicken, him the burger and we started off with calamari and the baked garlic-flat bread appy.
The next day...
More photos after the jump...
What are you up to this weekend? Marco got home last night from a business trip so I'm excited to hear about it and spend some time together. Today is also my good friend's 30th birthday and we're going to celebrate tomorrow by spending the afternoon together; we are torn between berry picking, a petting zoo or shopping--a very vast selection--so we'll see what happens.
On top of that, great feedback on the Let's Chat topic this week--that was fun and I enjoyed reading your comments, so thank you! I'd like to keep the posts going every Wednesday so please feel free to suggest any topics or ideas you have.
Hope you have a great weekend!
I hit up Joe Fresh the other evening after work, well, I was actually going for groceries and the clothes enticed me. While I only picked up one item--the black tee above--I did try on several things and though I would share. I like seeing what other people try on, how it looks, etc. and I've done this before, so here we go.
The tee above is $16 and comes in black and grey. I had to resist from purchasing both since I'm a bit of a hoarder like that, and went with just the black in a size medium. It has some pretty pleating on the shoulders, a deep scoop neck and a split-seam, and squared off hi-low hemline.
I loved the wash of these $39 jeans but per usual, they did not fit well. Pants never work for me with Joe Fresh, but I always give it a shot. Looking at this photo, they don't look so bad, in fact, I kind of like how they look, but in person it was no bueno. These were a size 31 and too loose everywhere, but I could not get the 30's done up despite the legs fitting well.
Two more items after the jump...
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