O U T F I T D E T A I L S : BELL SLEEVE SWEATER (SIMILAR, BUDGET FRIENDLY) | CHUNKY SCARF -- OLD (SIMILAR) | F21 BAR CHOKER (SIMILAR) | SUEDE MOTO JACKET | DENIM (BUDGET FRIENDLY) | ALDO BOOTS -- OLD (SIMILAR, SIMILAR) | CELINE BAG
Happy hump day, girls, how is your week going?
I definitely felt down on Monday, only to realize the next day, it was Blue Monday! That day is legit. I had completely forgotten, but I seriously felt like I got up on the wrong side of the bed. I was in a mood all day, and couldn't shake it until I got home from work, and the gym and got into some video editing--which is usually my happy place.
I wanted to share this look today because layering and how-to is something that came up several times in the Reader Survey--and I will do a full post dedicated to that later this week, answering specific comments you girls sent in--thank you.
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Good morning! How was your weekend? I was sharing a ton on IG stories and Snapchat--acoest1984--so if you follow along, you pretty much know everything I'm about to share, but let's jump into it anyway!
On Friday night we drove up to Tremblant to spend the night. It's about a two hour drive, so it's nice to get that out of the way and then relax until we ski in the morning. We headed up shortly after the dinner hour and our friend Pete came along with us.
Happy weekend!
One of my favourite things about the weekend is sleeping in. If I could sleep in everyday, I would. Not till a ridiculous hour, just till 9am or 10am... okay, maybe 11am every now and again. I love to slowly get up, make a coffee and tuck into my favourite YouTube channels or read my favourite blogs. Just savour that quiet morning, in my house coat and relax. Then I'll usually dive into some work and create content for the blog before heading out for the day.
That said, lately I've been feeling a little blah, and after digging a little deeper, I'm feel like I don't really know what you girls want to see here. I love sharing snaps of my life, outfits and fun stuff like that, but sometimes it's hard to know exactly what you're looking for without asking.
This month marks A.Co est. 1984's seventh year and there have been a lot of changes. When I started blogging, it was about fashion, then it moved towards a more personal aspect of my life, keeping the fashion but adding more lifestyle. I had always wanted to bring back the fashion side, and do feel like I've accomplished that since last April by bringing on a photographer. I know you guys love the outfits too, but also love the personal insights into everyday real life. Admittedly, I had started to shy away from getting too personal as this space has grown because... well, sometimes people aren't the kindest and it can be hard to know where to draw the line.
We all know Instagram is a huge highlight reel of everyone's life, and I feel way more connected to you on here and Snapchat, simply because I can put words to the photos or get real with you when I'm cleaning my embarrassingly messy closet, or just hanging out without make-up on (but seriously, thank gawd for those filters).
Ultimately, I wanted to ask you what you want to see on the blog. You're the ones that keep me going and blogging wouldn't be half the fun if I didn't have you, my online friends, to connect and chat with. I'm hoping hearing your comments, suggestions and opinions will help spark the excitement back into me. I want this to be a space you love to come check out each morning with your coffee, or scroll through when you get a quick afternoon break.
If that's something that interests you, I'd love for you to fill out the survey below (linked here) and I look forward to reading your feedback and creating some brand new, awesome content for 2017!
THE SURVEY IS CLOSED BUT THE LINK ABOVE WILL STILL WORK
TGIF! The weekend is upon us and I'm stoked. I had several things going on this week after work, and just when you think you have some down time, the calendar reminder pops up and there is something to do. And although the weekend is looking a little full, I'm really looking forward to getting some snowboarding in, heading to Escape Manor and filming some really fun content for you guys.
It's been a while since I've done a Friday Finds post, where I share some fun links from around the web, so I'm bringing that back today to ease into the weekend.
Also, come back tomorrow as I'm sharing a fun little survey to help improve this space so we can all find it more useful and enjoyable. Have a great one!
The most interesting video about social media today.
LOL. #truth
Just snagged these sunnies under $12 for an upcoming tropical vacation.
Watched this documentary on minimalism this week & was a huge eye opener.
Loving these booties (I went down half a size).
What it costs women to be on The Bachelor.
SNAPCHAT: ACOEST1984
Good morning & happy Monday! How was your weekend? We got away to Mont. Tremblant on Friday night, and stayed at a cute Airbnb in the village. If you follow along on Snapchat (acoest1984) or Insta Stories, you saw how freezing cold it was!
We got in around 8pm, dropped our gear inside and headed into the village for a late night dinner...
O U T F I T D E T A I L S : LONG SLEEVE TOP | NECKLACE | ZARA DENIM -- SOLD OUT (SIMILAR) | GOLDEN GOOSE SNEAKERS (BUDGET FRIENDLY) | BAG (BUDGET FRIENDLY)
Happy Friday! The weekend is finally upon us and I could not be more excited. What are your plans? We are heading to Tremblant tonight, a ski village / resort just under two hours away, for the night and hitting the slopes tomorrow. Then it's back to the city for my girlfriend's birthday dinner, which I'm uber excited for. Hope you have a great weekend!
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SIMONS CARDIGAN (SIMILAR) | SEQUIN DRESS
Happy New Year! How was your new years eve? We went to our friend's place for a semi-formal attire party and had a great time; safe to say, Sunday was a complete write off. More on the party later, let's jump into the snaps.
On Friday, I hit the gym and then went to the mall to poke around and get some quality me-time in. I love shopping on my own when there is no time limit, it's a great way for me to recharge my batteries (in other ways that don't involve emerging myself in hours of YouTube videos).
I went to Simons and they had so many amazing sales. If you saw my Snapchat--I'm acoest1984-- you saw how crazy the deals were! This sequin dress is under $30 (i.e. less than half price) and the cardigan was around the same. If you're in Ottawa, head over, I find the deals are better in person than online. That said, I didn't purchase the dress but picked up a gorgeous bell sleeved top that I wore for NYE. I can't find it online, but this one is similar.
New Years Eve is just a few days away but there is still time to snag something sparkly before the ball drops. I love sequins for the holidays (I have an entire Pinterest board dedicated to them!) and like I've mentioned before, tend to invest in at least one piece per year as they will truly last & keep in your closet forever.
I'm a big fan of long sleeved sequin mini dresses, but also love a sequin top to dress up with a skirt (leather would be awesome) or down with some denim or distressed black skinnies.
Today I'm sharing a few ways I've worn sequins over the years, plus sharing a bunch of similar items in case you're looking to get your sparkle on this weekend.
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Happy Tuesday and a belated Merry Christmas! I always put up a Christmas post, and we were travelling this year, per usual, so I brought my laptop and it just didn't happen. Between celebrating my Dad's birthday on Christmas eve, then travelling to Marco's family that afternoon and back to Ottawa the next morning, there wasn't a lot of down time.
I wore my new fave sweater for birthday and Christmas festivities on the 24th and I'm not kidding when I say I'm in love with this softie. It's such a chic, yet versatile piece, I'm finding myself reaching for it for day, weekend, and when I've been rushing out to meet up with friends. I'm seriously debating the olive green colour!
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Happy Boxing day ladies! I spent the day at the mall shopping and battling the crowds and it was kind of worth it. I did make out with several pieces, but honestly, the sales are so good online, I'd skip the hassle and just shop from the comfort of home.
Also, it's the Nordstrom Half Yearly sale (!!) so I'm sharing all the pieces I've tried on, and while mostly everything I'm sharing is marked down, there are a few that aren't on sale. However, I'm linking them anyway plus to the same or similar items on sale elsewhere so you can snag them.
Finally, I'm sharing a huge round up of all the post-Christmas sales happening around the web at the very bottom of the post, so be sure to scroll through. I'll have a full Weekend Recap up tomorrow, with details from Christmas and more. Hope you're having a great day!
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O U T F I T D E T A I L S : CUT OUT BODYSUIT | RED SKIRT -- OLD (SIMILAR, LOVE THIS) | SPARKLY HEELS | CLUTCH / IPAD CASE
We are just a few days away from Christmas so I'm breaking out the red skirt! You girls know I love anything neutral, but this skirt was a purchase I have never regretted for my closet--perfect for festive parties, even New Years Eve!
Do you guys dress up for your holiday dinner? Ours is pretty casual, so you can wear anything you like--I'm usually in some combination of leggings (ahem--eatin' pants) and a pretty top, but could totally show up wearing something dressier and my family wouldn't bat an eyelash.
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Happy first day of winter! We are feverishly trying to finish up the Christmas shopping over here and I've spent the last three nights, including tonight, shopping. I'm just about there and hoping I can finish up tomorrow and get all the wrapping done on Friday. If that's not last minute, I don't know what is... actually, I do, but this still feels very last minute for me!
Something I've been getting a few questions about (thank you!) is Vlogmas--where the heck is Vlogmas?! If you're not familiar, it is a December tradition of vlogging everyday. I did it last year, and the year before, and loved it, but it's a ton of work.
After getting super sick for four weeks in the middle of November, I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't participate in Vlogmas. I was bummed to have to decide that, but had to put my health first. I don't want to get too negative, but working full time, blogging on the side and filming my life, editing and uploading a video every. single. day. for the month is a lot. Add that on top of the general holiday excitement of hosting parties, going to gatherings, seeing family and trying to check everyone off your list, it will legit take a toll on the bod (case in point: when I got sick during Vlogmas last year).
So all that to say, I had to put Vlogmas on hold this year, and just focus on everything else... and I hope you don't mind, and understand. I've been extra focussed on getting daily content up for you, sharing awesome sales and gift guides, outfits and more. I truly put my heart and soul into this blog and appreciate you girls so much.
That said, I will be continuing to post daily content after Christmas because the sales are going to be huge! I've already been getting a few sneak peeks at what retailers have in store and will share with you all my top picks and what you need to buy.
I'm sharing a little video I made below where I basically share everything I just went over about why I haven't done Vlogmas, but there is also some fun footage of my family's annual tree decorating and how I make my favourite pancakes that you always see in my Weekend Recaps. Hope you are having a great day, and see you tomorrow!
A few fave Vlogmas videos you may have missed:
It's safe to say that I'm a huge homebody, and although it might seem like I go out a lot, I love to stay in. As a natural introvert, staying in recharges my batteries, and I genuinely enjoy being alone--surfing the Internet, watching YouTube, editing a video, etc. That's the stuff that keeps me going so I can go out and be social and spend time with people.
That said, if there is a homebody on your list--or you're just sneaking in a few last minute gifts for yourself--this post is for you! I'm totally eyeing that olive scarf for myself, and am loving all things copper for the home (ie. those cute salt & pepper shakers!). And of course that cozy cardigan has my name written all over it!
I have that fluffy eye mask (which also comes in white) and purchased it right before our trip to Italy for our overnight flight, but also wear it on a semi-nightly basis and for weekend sleep ins. I would say sleeping with an eye mask takes some getting used to, but really helps me fall asleep, if I'm having trouble, and stay asleep longer.
Happy shopping! xo
Happy Monday & last week before Christmas! Eek! Can you believe it's just about here? I'm still completely unprepared but have some ideas up my sleeve so it shouldn't be too bad crossing everyone off my list!
How was your weekend?
On Friday night, I went to the second annual girls Christmas party--this year the theme was Tipsy Elves with an ugly-sweater-glam dress code. See last year's party here. I went with this ridiculously soft sweater (which I will totally be wearing around the house in months to come--so cozy!) and these shimmery leggings. We had a great time snacking on some delicious treats, dancing and playing some silly xmas games. You can see a pic of a few of us here.
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O U T F I T D E T A I L S : H&M SEQUIN TOP -- LAST YEAR (ALMOST IDENTICAL, SIMILAR, LOVE THIS) | CHOKER | BLACK SKINNIES | BCBG PUMPS -- OLD (SIMILAR, ALSO IN GOLD) | TARGET BOX CLUTCH -- LAST YEAR (SIMILAR)
Happy Friday! Do you have fun Christmas plans this weekend? Any parties? We are going to keep it pretty low key, mind you, we have a ton of Christmas shopping to do--ack! I'm super behind this year and trying not to stress about it.
Tis the season to get dolled up, or keep it casual with some sparkle. I love sequin tops and usually purchase some sort of sequin piece every year. My top is from last year but I've linked some really similar ones below. Pair it with a pencil skirt (leather or fabric would look great), with black skinnies like I did or even denim. Anything goes, and all you have to do it is put it on and you're instantly festive. Case in point, the silver sequin top I wore for our Secret Santa party.
Hope you girls have a great weekend!
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Shopbop is having another awesome three day sale, this time on designer merchandise that is on sale--they're giving an additional 30% off; use code EXTRA30. Friday is the last day of the sale so now is your chance to stock up.
That said, I'm sharing my faves, per usual. I feel like I've been doing a plenty of shopping posts lately, but what can I say, the holiday season has me in the spirit of giving... and maybe following the rule of, 'One for you... one for me' #treatyoself
Also, not only would any of these pieces be awesome additions to your closet, they would make great gifts for Mom, sister, or best gal pals.
O U T F I T D E T A I L S : WOOL/LEATHER WRAP COAT | ZARA LACE TRIM CAMI (SIMILAR, SPLURGE) | DARK DENIM (MEDIUM WASH, BUDGET FRIENDLY) | OVER THE KNEE BOOTS -- ON SALE! | BAG
Alright girls, taking a break from holiday looks, today I'm sharing a pulled together look for date night or cocktails with the girls. I always reach for these jeans, whether for Casual Friday, going out or even hanging at home because they are so comfortable (and I cannot say that about many jeans!). I paired it with a chiffon cami and over the knee boots to spice things up. Throw in a pretty choker and you're done.
This wool and leather coat is one of the best pieces I've ever purchased, and I'm so glad I pulled the trigger back in the Summer, even though at that time it was hot and muggy. Now with the cold weather here, I've been wearing this non-stop and it's such a showstopper. I love the drape of the front and if you're broader, like me, this actually fits great in the shoulders. Bonus, it's now on sale!!
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O U T F I T D E T A I L S : OFF SHOULDER WRAP TOP | PAINT SPLATTER DENIM (SIMILAR) | HEELS -- OLD (SIMILAR) | BAG -- OLD (SIMILAR, LOVE THIS) | F21 CHOKER (SIMILAR, SIMILAR)
Keeping with the holiday theme, I'm sharing another casual outfit I'm loving for the holidays. This look combines the comfort of distressed denim with the style of elevated accessories and an interesting top.
I'm a huge fan of dressing up my casual pieces, mostly because I like to be comfortable, and those are the pieces I tend to invest in because I will wear them over and over again. While it's always fun to get a new dress, when you can dress up your basics, it's a great way to reuse your pieces and save for items in the future you will wear constantly.
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Hi ladies--there are some crazy sales on currently for designer bags. I shared a bunch for Black Friday but many have sold out and new ones have also been added.
I've been on a big crossbody kick for a while now. I love the effortlessness of hands free shopping / everyday life, so for my next bag I'm definitely going to go that route. I have been coveting this one for a while now--so pretty in both colours!
That said, there is nothing like a beautiful handbag and my Givenchy Antigona (above) was my first designer bag purchase. There are several of them on sale, in various sizes. Mine is the medium, which is the largest size and you can see me carrying it here for size reference (I'm 5'11).
All that to say, today I'm sharing a round up of the bags that I'm eyeing because these sales are too amazing to pass up. If you've been thinking about taking the plunge on one of these beauties, now is a great time.
Hello, hello, Monday how the heck did you get here so fast?!
On Friday night we hosted our fourth annual Secret Santa and it was awesome. I was finally feeling better, and we had 18 friends join together for a crazy evening of eating, drinking & present opening.
My Secret Santa gave me these pretty rose gold monogram ornaments for the tree & this cozy scarf (which I had my eye on!). You can see a picture of the whole group of us here.
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Happy Sunday ladies! Just wanted to jump on and share a few awesome deals happening around the web--we are in full recovery mode today after a huge party last night for Marco's 35th (more on that tomorrow in the Weekend Snaps).
My white lace bodysuit is still available, but running low in sizes. It's obviously very sheer so I actually paired this bodysuit underneath for more coverage.
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It's been a while since I've done a Forever 21 post and they have so many great pieces right now, from chic sweaters that look way more expensive than they are, to a great selection of holiday and New Years Eve attire, I'm loving so many pieces!
Hope you have a great weekend! xo
I'm back with the second round of holiday gift guides and today we're talking about the special ladies in your life--be it your best girlfriend, Mom, sister or whomever is your nearest and dearest. I've got a variety of fun things I know some of my closest girlfriends would love (because they told me) + things I already love or would love to get myself.
I just got a new phone, and would love a marble phone case. The rose gold knot bangle is so pretty (and comes in yellow gold & silver too)--I have a friend who has one and every time she wears it, I'm eyeballing it. These leggings are the comfiest pair I've ever owned and I actually gifted my bestie with a pair last year and she loved them.
I'm all about either nude or dark manis, and I'm on my second bottle of the Essie colour above
. You can always find some beautiful stuff on Etsy like this woven wall hanging, and how pretty are those rough diamond studs!? This satin cami PJ set would be super cute too & this glass and gold booze decanter is gorgeous + functional.
Finally, this is my favourite red lip colour (as seen on me here), the chic water bottles come in a variety of colours and prints and these are my absolute favourite undies--they are comfortable, lie smooth under the sheerest of clothing and don't dig in!
PREVIOUS GIFT GUIDES: Hostess Gifts Under $30
SHOP THE POST + MORE FUN GIFT IDEAS
O U T F I T D E T A I L S : CROCHET OFF SHOULDER TOP | ZARA DISTRESSED DENIM -- SOLD OUT (SIMILAR) | ASOS FEATHER CLUTCH -- OLD (SIMILAR, SIMILAR) | REPORT SIGNATURE HEELS -- OLD (SIMILAR, LOVE THESE)
While I love to get fancy every now and again, casual is more my thing, with some elevated pieces to fancy it up. This look is something I would wear to a casual holiday party, say at someone's home or even out for festive drinks with the girls. It's comfortable and chic at the same time. Pair it with metallic heels and a fancy clutch and you're party ready.
We are hosting our four annual Secret Santa this Friday and I'll be wearing something along these lines--minus the shoes, because I'm not a big shoes-in-the-house kinda girl. And if this look is a little too casual for your taste, swap in dark denim or some coated burgundy pants and you'll be a little more dressed up.
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