May was pretty awesome, and while nothing extraordinary happened and no trips were taken, the weather was beautiful and clearly I purchased several pairs of shoes--it doesn't get much better than that!
 
In May I shared a Spring Lookbook video, dressed down my boyfriend jeans, bought some new Supra kicks (also love these & these) that I have been wearing all the time at the gym and we had Marco's family come for a visit.  Later in the month we celebrated my mom's birthday with a donut cake, I had one of my best sandwiches of life from the gym's smoothie bar (what the whaaaa?!) and dressed up my boyfriend jeans.
 
I got my first pair of Stan Smiths, embraced the boho trend with a kimono and flares, and Marco and I went for a casual date night one weekend (I used this self tanner).  I met a girlfriend for dinner at El Camino (like last Summer), did some shopping and shared my Summer Shoe & Bag Picks.
 
I picked up some sweet gladiator sandals (similar options here & here), met my friend's new baby, wore these new lace-up heels almost daily and took in a beautiful sunset on the last day of the month with my man.
 
 
Related posts:
 
 
DYNAMITE BLAZER (SIMILAR)  |  TANK  |  DENIM  |  NAIL COLOUR

On Friday I went to visit my girlfriend and her new baby boy, Lukas (see a pic of us here at her baby shower back in March).  What a sweetheart!  Although I'm not ready for a baby quite yet, I love holding, feeding and fawning over them.  They are so little for such a short period of time, it's really special to meet them brand new.


On Saturday morning...
Good morning ladies!  You know I try to keep things as affordable as possible here (for my sake too!) and share how I mix and match various price points.  That said, major sales are happening this time of year and ShopSense is having a huge sale on current season designer items!  This never happens so if you're in the market for a specific handbag or pair of shoes, now is the time to jump on it.

(click the arrow to see more)
 I've been eyeing that Alexander Wang wallet in the top row and you know I recently picked up the Givency Antigona--but how beautiful is it in the cream colour (they also have two black versions on sale here and here).  Per usually I'm loving neutrals, and I think if you're going to take the plunge and invest in a designer bag, a neutral colour is your best bet.


SWEATSHIRT (SIMILAR)  |  SHORTS (SIMILAR)  |  SHOES  |  BAG

More shoe picks after the jump...


If you've been following along for a while, you ladies know I'm a huge shoe lover and what's better than a huge shoes haul?  Shoes and bags!  

I recently picked up some super on-trend pieces that I'm excited to style for now and into the Summer months (hello fringe!).

Thanks so much for watching! xo


Related videos:






DYNAMITE BLAZER (LOVE THIS ONE) | TANK  |  URBAN PLANET DENIM (SIMILAR)  |  HEELS  | AE NECKLACE (SIMILAR)  |  SUNGLASSES (WANT THESE)

Today I'm sharing how I like to dress up my boyfriend jeans and it's quite simple: nude pumps, a chic leather jacket, and simple accessories.  I love denim with some interest and the rips on these are great.  It's definitely a looser fit than I'm used to, but great for days when you want to be slightly more comfortable and on trend at the same time.

To dress these down, I rock them with tennis shoes but recently picked up some cute espadrille flats that I think will be great or a pair of tan gladiator sandals and a basic v-neck tee.


shoes // tank (similar) // leggings // headphones

On Friday night I literally had to drag myself to the gym, but it was made easier when my girlfriend agreed to come with.  

Afterwards, a few quick errands and I went home to find Marco waiting with sushi for us #yay!

The Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale is happening through May 31st and there are so many great deals; if you're looking to stock up on some Summer essentials or designer pieces, this is a great time as thousands of items are up to 40% off (pictures are click-able).

I love both fitted and flowy tops for the gym but the latter are nice for those days you're feeling bloated.  Colourful leggings and cool cut outs are my favourite for adding interest in the gym.  I'm in love with that windbreaker and like to rock various shoes at the gym including trainers for cardio days and hi-tops for heavy lifting.

More fashion picks after the jump...

Spring has final sprung and my wardrobe couldn't be happier!  I feel this new sense of excitement now for getting dressed with the endless options now that the warmer weather is finally here.  

I picked up this romper a few weeks ago and shared it in My Spring Picks video.  I've already worn it a couple times--to brunch for Mother's Day being one of them.  It's the perfect combination of chic, yet covered, yet on trend all at the same time.  The sleeves win in my books too because I find it rare to find a romper with sleeves that fits and flatters.

Happy Tuesday!  Yesterday was Victoria Day in Canada making it a long weekend which was seriously just what the Doctor ordered.  The weekend was pretty busy until Sunday night, so Monday was a great day to do me and recharge.  With that, onto the snaps!


On Friday night I went and got my nails done and chose this neon pink from China Glaze (I normally tend towards OPI or Essie, but there was nothing as fluro as this and I loved it).

 
Today I'm sharing how I create my usual, daily winged liner, or cat eye, with liquid liner.  I've been wearing this for years, alternating the thickness of the line depending on how I'm feeling, but it's definitely my go-to look.
 
I know liquid liner can be a little tricky and a little intimidating, but I'm sharing a secret trick I use, combined with a little patience you'll be getting your feline on in now time.  Check out the video below...

H&M crop top (similar) & skirt (similar) // Enzo Angiolini pumps // Nine West bag (similarlove this one) // sunnies // The Bay cuff

This is definitely a look I'd wear to the office, however, I'd pair a full cami underneath instead of just a bralette for a bit more coverage.  

You ladies know how much I love neutrals and the office is no exception.  That said, I do feel a pull towards a bit more colour for Spring and love how this cross-body bag looks more chic when carried on the shoulder for work.


We went to a BBQ on the weekend, the first of the season, and it was pretty chilly so I threw on these comfy jeans and oversized sweater.  The perfect combination of not overdressed, comfortable and put together.

My Chucks are getting pretty worn in as they've become my to-and-fro gym shoe, not to mention worn to the death during our trip to NYC last Fall.  However, I remember when I first got them and they were so white, I just wanted them to look more worn in--oh how I'm eating my words now!

 
On Saturday morning I got up pretty early and had the day to myself since Marco was playing in a golf tournament.  It was actually quite nice to have zero plans but plenty of options.  Will I clean?  Will I shop? Will I sit around in my gym clothes all. day. long. ?! 
 
I hit the gym mid morning and then made a couple of stops on my way home.  Then, got super productive and cleaned and did laundry all afternoon, which wasn't very fun but I turned up the EDM and got it done.


Today I'm sharing with you a Spring Lookbook of my picks!  I'm so excited the warmer weather is finally upon us and am actually able to wear these looks outdoors (and film outside too!).  You might have already seen a couple of these looks in outfit posts because I'm so excited about the pieces.   As always, thanks for watching! xo


Related posts:
Garage denim jacket (similar; love this silhouette) // Joe Fresh striped top // Urban Planet pants (DIY'ed; similar) // Adidas Stan Smith kicks // American Eagle scarf (similar; splurge) // Christian Siriano cross-body bag (similar; similar) // Ardene sunnies (similar; classic splurge)

Lately I have been living in sneakers during the evenings and on weekends.  There is something so effortlessly cool looking about a dressed up (or down, in this case) outfit with a pair of fresh whites--not to mention comfy!  I pulled out this new scarf to add a pop of neon colour to an otherwise fairly neutral palette.

 
I spent Friday evening at the Genuis Bar at the Apple store, attempting to get my MacBook fixed.  It's been really slow lately and editing videos has become so difficult and much lengthier due to this.  Unfortunately I have to go back tonight and try another route.

Urban Planet cardigan (similar) // Harlow tank (similar; similar) // Urban Planet denim (similar & love these in white) // Adidas Stan Smith sneakers // American Eagle necklace // Gucci sunnies

I have never been a huge fan of boyfriend jeans, for myself at least, but these ones, which have a slimmer fit, are more like girlfriend jeans and right up my alley.  I love distressed denim and these have just enough relax to them (and a high-waist #instaspanx).  As you know, I love neutrals, but when I saw this tanergine-peach cardigan, I gave it a go and loved it!  I think the warmer weather is making me want to inject some colour into my wardrobe.

Lastly, I replaced my Pumas with these chic Stan Smiths, which I have loved from afar for years.  They definitely aren't as comfortable, but I love the look and pop of green.  I can't wait to style them in a more dressed up manner with black skinnies and a long wool coat.

More photos after the jump...

Almost half of April was spent in Italy, which is why it's dominating this recap but it was seriously a trip of a lifetime, so let's jump in.

In April I shared my Top 5 Spring Trends video and we left for Italy.  We flew to Florence and traveled south (Rome, Amalfi, Positano, Capri) before returning back to Florence to fly out almost two weeks later.  It was my first time overseas, in Europe, everything, so it was quite an experience!


When we came back, we spent the third weekend in April skiing at Mont. Tremblant, which was so awesome!  It was warm and there were dirt patches and it was just so fun to get one last ski day in before Summer without freezing our butts off, for once.  We took a mini-road trip to the US, filmed a Spring lookbook (which will be out in a few days!) and I shared a pair of my fave heels in an outfit post.

Bring on May (flowers) & even warmer weather!


This past trip to Italy was my first time overseas and we did quite a bit of traveling around.  From Florence, to Rome, to Amalfi, Positano, Capri and back to Florence and into the Tuscany countryside, I saw and learned a lot.  I'm sure there is plenty more to learn and easily plenty more to see but I wanted to share 10 things I learned while there:

1. Toilets & Restrooms | Often times restrooms are singles and not gender specific.  Additional, toilet seats are next to non-existent, so you're either squatting or sitting on the bowl.  I had also heard that sometimes you would need your own paper so always kept tissue travel packs on me, but never had that problem.  Also, it feels frowned upon to use a restaurant or store's washroom unless you're buying something there.


I love the scuba / foam material trend that has been around for about a year or so but I'm just hoping on board now with this amazing, boxy top.  Definitely the kind of top that adds volume but the structure and quality of it is really beautiful.  It makes a statement despite it being super simplistic.

These new skinnies are super high-waisted and while I'm not showing it off in this outfit, I wore them with a hi-low sweater the other day and felt half like my mom back in the day, and half chic--a great combination, if you ask me.  I never thought I'd be feeling the high-waisted trend but I'm loving it.  Next on my wish list?  Some high-waisted dark denim flares like these.



As I mentioned yesterday, on Saturday, Marco and I took a mini road trip to the US to get his new tires and do some minor shopping while we waited.  I am bringing you guys along for the full day plus randomness when we got home and a mini haul.

Thanks for watching! xo
New kicks; I've been wanting a pair of black hi-tops and Supras are my favourite.  Love the pony hair and gold detail on these babies (they are also men's)--perfect for the gym or an edgier look with leather pants.


On Friday night I hit the gym, took my time and then popped into Winners on my way home where I found this adorable soap dish.  It was the only thing I purchased and it felt a little frivolous but I really love it (and currently have my soap in a small dipping pot that is for eating!).

On our second last day in Florence, we did a wine tour in Tuscany, which, for a last minute booking, was one of the best experiences of Italy...

 
1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6
 
I just found out the sad news that Piperlime is closing at the end of the month, but the good news is they are having 40% off the sale price and it ends today; use code SALEONSALE.  So, if you were looking to stock up on designer jeans, shoes or a bag, they still have a pretty good selection left.
 
Above are my picks; I have a pair of Paige denim and love them (they fit true to size) and I'd totally scoop up the red sandals if they had my size.  The dress would be so pretty for a Summer bridal or baby shower and I love the laid-back look of those Joie boots (which also come in black!). 
 
Happy shopping!
 

FAUX LEATHER JACKET (SIMILAR & GREAT OPTION) | ZARA SWEATER (SIMILAR)  |  CAMI -- OLD (love this one)  |  SISLEY PANTS -- PURCHASED IN ITALY (LOVE THESE)  |   WHITE SNEAKERS  | CROSS BODY BAG  |  MAYBELLINE PINK POP LIPSTICK

Style and comfort were the two elements necessary for traveling throughout Italy, and these pants I picked up in Rome fit the bill perfectly.  I love the slightly dropped-crotch and faux leather details that bring an element of chic to what is technically a glorified pair of sweats.  Throw on with some daily jewelry, a bold lip and a pretty top to dress up the look.  

This would work equally well with heels, but that was no option in Italy with the cool temps and cobblestone, so kicks it was!




 
Today I'm sharing the top five trends for Spring, and more, plus my recent finds at Place d'Orleans.  I am so excited that the warmer weather is finally upon us and we can shed a few layers.  Spring is the perfect time to re-vamp your style so if you're looking to step a little outside your comfort zone, look no further.

I'm having some issues with embedding the video so if it's now showing up, you can watch it here.
 
Thanks for watching xo
 
 
Related videos:
 
Maison Scotch jacket (similar; real leather) // Dynamite top // Guess denim (similar) // American Eagle necklace // Givenchy bag

I have always loved flares, and have several pairs in my closet, but skinnies are definitely my go-to--especially for winter and tucking into boots.  That said, they are making a major come-back this Spring and I couldn't be more excited!  I took the opportunity to rock a pair for Casual Friday.


On our second, and only full day, in Positano, we booked a boat trip for the day to take us to the island of Capri.  We made the descent down to the beach where the sun was starting to peek through the clouds...


There are really no words for the beauty of Positano on the Amalfi Coast, so instead, I'll overload you with some photos and tell you about our experience...

Read more...

On our way to Rome, from Florence, we sat across from a guy on the train who had been staying in Rome.  Of course I asked him if he had any recommendations for food and he did: Dar Poeta.

He raved that it was possibly the best pizza in Italy, and since we'd already tried Gusta's, it was only natural to compare the best to the best...

Read more...

FAUX LEATHER JACKET (SIMILAR)  |  CHIQLE DENIM (SIMILAR)  |  SNEAKERS  |  CROSS BODY BAG -- OLD (SIMILAR)

On our last full day in Rome, we visited the Colosseum.  Marco purchased tickets in advance which saved us from standing in two lines--ahem, we learned our lesson, clearly--and waiting in the freezing winds.  Don't let the sunshine fool you, it was quite chilly.

We took the hop-on/hop-off tour bus, which was about 5km away and were so surprised to see...

Read more...

SUNGLASSES (SIMILAR)  |  SCARF  |  FAUX LEATHER JACKET (SIMILAR)

What a difference a day makes!

Our first day in Rome was freezing and raining but by day two, the sun came out and despite it still being frigid, it was much more pleasant with a bit of heat beaming down on us.


More pics after the jump...

I won't lie, Rome didn't exactly start out great...



On our last night in Florence, we tried Sabatini, at the recommendation of Marco's Italian co-worker. We made a reservation online, and I checked out the Trip Advisor reviews which were all quite positive.  One reviewer had said it wasn't a super modern place or the 'it' place anymore, but that the food was amazing, so off we went...


More after the jump...

FREE PEOPLE SWEATER (SIMILAR)  |  CAMI (SIMILAR)  |  RIPPED WHITE SKINNIES (SIMILAR)  |  SNEAKERS  |  NYC STREET VENDOR SUNNIES (SIMILAR, BUDGET FRIENDLY)


For this 12-day trip, packing was definitely an obstacle, more specifically it being my first trip of such length.  I have been doing my best to mix and match everything I brought, and kept that in mind while packing a mixture of neutrals and a few same-colour pieces to keep it effortless yet somewhat stylish.

Rome was really cold and rainy the day before we shot these photos, but fortunately the sun came out the next day.  Don't let those rays fool you, it was still quite chilly, under 10 degrees Celsius and I bundled up in my jacket and scarf after!

I'm still looking for the perfect Italian leather boot while we are here, which I was hoping to find sooner than later so I could wear them here (and throw these Pumas out because they are done-zo after this trip and multiple days in the rain--yuck!).  If not, at least before we come home on Sunday.


More photos after the jump...


On our third, and final day, in Florence, we stood in line to get tickets and climb the Duomo--a huge cathedral (above) that you can climb over 500 stairs to the top, outside, look out and see the entire city.

After spending about half an hour in line to buy tickets, and hardly moving, we decided to split up; I went to stand in the get-in line, while Marco continued to wait to buy the tickets. Everything was going well until the rain started...


Read more...

JACKET -- OLD (SIMILAR)  |  WHITE SKINNIES  |  SNEAKERS  |  STUDDED BAG -- OLD (SIMILAR)  |  HAIR TUTORIAL

On our second night in Florence, we were able to get a reservation at Il Magazzino Osteria Tripperla, which was recommended to us by our Italian friend.  We had tried the night before but were unsuccessful to get in without a reso so made one for the following evening...

Read more...

FAUX LEATHER JACKET  (SIMILAR, SIMILAR)  |  LULU'S OPEN BACK TOP  |  CAMO PANTS (SIMILAR, SIMILAR)  |  SNEAKERS  |  NINE WEST BAG  (SIMILAR)

We are having an amazing time in Italy, with tons and tons of walking and even more eating--eek!  It's true what they say, in Florence at least, about the cobblestone streets and heels not mixing, although the Italians do it.  


I've been rocking my trusty Pumas  for the majority of our trip because I totally packed wrong...

Click to read more...


On our second day in Florence, we slowly got ready, had a nice continental breakfast and made our way out to the city square.  Since we stayed right downtown, it was easy to walk everywhere we wanted to be, including all the major sites...


Read more...

DENIM JACKET  |  BLACK TANK (SIMILAR)  |  SHINY LEGGINGS  |  SNEAKERS  |  NINE WEST BAG -- OLD

Our first food stop in Italy was at Gusta Pizza.  We walked for about a kilometre, with our heavy carry-on bags to find this place and it did not disappoint.

The pizzas are exactly what you'd think authentic Italian pizza would be; saucy, thin-crusted with simple toppings like basil, spicy salami and roma tomatoes.

Click for more...

Marco and I arrived in Florence early Thursday morning and since we couldn’t check into our hotel, we wandered around with our carry-on bags in a haven’t-slept-for-24-hours daze.  We were able to finally check in around 2pm and caught a few zzz’s in hopes that 6-hour time difference doesn’t affect our entire vacation.

We are staying in the city centre, which is so close to everything.  It’s our first time in Europe too, so this is exciting!  Today we saw the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and walked around the cobblestone streets.  We even tried some amazing, authentic Italian pizza, but more to come on that later.

The internet here is a little sketch, but I’m going to do my best to blog and share our days here.  Better run, time to get ready for dinner (which I’m told is always after 8pm)!  See you tomorrow.

Click for more...

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