On Friday night, a group of friends and I went to Ottawa's first Booby Ball.  We had bought tickets months ago and the night was finally here.  It was a large event in support of breast cancer and it sold out.  It was held in the Horticulture building at Lansdowne Park and it was a huge party from the minute you walked in.

They had a photographer at the front taking everyone's photos as they arrived, a DJ spinning, a manicure station, passed appetizers, a photo booth, people dressed in Star Wars costumes, an open bar & more.  People were full of spirit and we saw tons of sequins, glitter, face paint and even some fun costumes.  We danced the night away and had a great time.



More photos after the jump...

Happy Friday & welcome to the weekend!

This week has been pretty outstanding, mainly because I was in the delivery room as my best friend gave birth to her second child.  Her husband and I were there, along with nurses and the Doctor, and it was one of the coolest experiences of my life, naturally.  

We had planned for me to be there, so I had been anxiously awaiting the call and it came Tuesday evening.  By the early hours of Wednesday, there was a new babe hanging out with us--what a sweetheart!  Definitely an incredible night and so special she let me share it with her.  You can see a photo of us here.

For the weekend, tonight I'm heading to the Booby Ball with some friends, which I'm totally stoked for.  If you're going, I'd love to meet you so please come and say hi!  On Saturday I will be checking out the new Forever 21 Red at Place d'Orleans (hello jeans for $9?!) and gearing up for a video with all my purchases so stay tuned.

Have a great weekend!





"I had a miscarriage."  Three women share their stories.

My newest haul video: cold weather layers.

This is me before a party.  #thetruthisfunny

20% off at All Saints (code: NOVEMBER); swooning over this jacket & this coat.

A funny take on Adele's Hello.



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Hi ladies!  A few of you ask me what I like to do at the gym and I'm a big fan of lifting heavy weights.  I've been lifting for over two years and even more seriously since May.  I'm finally starting to see some muscle build and definition--but still a long way to go.

I know lifting weights can be intimidating, it was for me because I was such a cardio fanatic for many years.  That said, now I really enjoy lifting weights and for the first time in my life, my body is slowly starting to change.   I wanted to share with you what I do, as it's pretty simple, in a video below...


About a month ago, we took a little day trip to Gatineau Park and took a small hike around Pink Lake.  If you've never been, it's this beautiful aqua-teal coloured lake in Quebec that is just stunning in person. I'm not the biggest outdoor-sy person, but this is something worth seeing, if anything for the photos.

We took Marco's Mom with us, since she was in town, and walked around the park a bit, enjoyed the views before heading back to Ottawa to hit the mall.  Classic women!  I'd love to share some photos with you if you'd like to see...




Hope you ladies had a great weekend.  I'm keeping this recap somewhat short as I guess I just didn't capture a ton.

We went back to Kingston for the internment of Marco's father.  Afterwards, we went back to the house for a huge Filipino feast and some time to relax.




The next day...


Happy Friday & welcome to the weekend!  I'm definitely ready for sleeping in and relaxing a bit.  I'm planning to film a video this weekend and just take it easy.  Next week I'm re-starting the Article Club and we will be reading this one if you'd like to share your thoughts.  Have a great weekend!


I'm giving away two tickets to the Booby Ball in Ottawa for next Friday!

So pretty.

9 Snapchat tricks you might not know.

Simple but handy etiquette tips.

Just picked up these & it's like you're wearing nothing at all!

Why girls should get strong, not skinny.

Loving this song.

Revealing portraits of heavily tattooed people.



(Photo of a common dinner at our place: chicken rice bowls with mixed greens, black beans & random veggies or whatever I can find in the fridge thrown in.  Topped with tons of Sriracha and an over-easy egg.  Cheers!)





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Hi ladies!  I always like sharing these posts with you because it can't be a photo-shoot style post for every outfit, but there are a lot of outfits that don't ever make it to the blog #realtalk
 
Here are a few looks as of late via Instagram and the camera roll.
 
 
SCARF  |  H&M JACKET - OLD (SIMLAR)  |  TOP  |  DISTRESSED DENIM  |  ALDO BOOTS (SIMILAR, LOVE THESE)  |  FRINGE BAG
 
I wore this outfit one evening shopping, and it's basically my weekend / evening uniform.  I love a good distressed skinny, a looser fitting top, ankle boots and an oversized scarf.  A leather jacket and a beanie would be great accessories to add into the mix for a chic, layered look.
 


October has had some highs and lows, but we are still keepin' on.

We traveled back and forth to see Marco's family, I shared my travel style & we hosted Thanksgiving at our place.  I got some new peep-toe booties and wore a variation of this outfit every weekend.

We celebrated our friends wedding, helped pick apples in the in-laws garden and celebrated a friends birthday.

The saddest news of the month was putting down our family dog, Peanut, who would have been 16 this month.  Despite the fact that she lived a long and wonderful life, it doesn't make it easier.  We miss her so much.

I shared an outfit with my new OTK boots, we went to see Kevin Hart (man, we needed that laugh) and I started wearing socks #soundsweirdbuttrue 

I saw my photos on the doors of Place d'Orleans (the first photos of the photoshoot I did back in August; vlog of the day here), checked out the granite slabs for my condo, did some shopping and celebrated Halloween as a mermaid.


Some posts you may have missed:



Happy Monday ladies!  Hope you had a great Halloween weekend.

Marco's mom came into town for the weekend so after we picked her up from the station, we went and grabbed some pho.  Afterwards it was home to just relax for the rest of the evening.



LEGGINGS  |  PUMAS  |  SUPRAS

On Saturday we...

Halloween has come & went but I wanted to share my costume.  I went as a mermaid and created the costume myself.  It was quite labour intensive as I'm definitely an amateur sewer, but it actually turned out #success

I wasn't really able to document how I went about sewing the skirt and creating the top, but wanted to share a few steps along with photos of the finished product as I know some you ladies were asking.



I love how the super trendy over-the-knee boot has become a wardrobe staple.  Not only do they keep you warm and stylish, they pair effortlessly with jeans, leggings and flowy dresses.  I equally love how we are seeing a shift towards a chunkier heel--hoorah for sturdiness--which is great if you experience winters with ice and snow, like myself.

Today I'm sharing some OTK boots that I would love to have in my closet.  While I love a good deal, quality plays a big role for this kind of boot since there is so much of it.  You want something that will look well made and stand the test of time (and cold weather elements!).

The flat boots in the top row are so chic and versatile; definitely a good choice for a commuter.  I love the look of the grey-ish distressed pair in the top row as well, it's a little more casual which is great for the weekend. 

Black is always my go-to, and the middle pair are stunning--super chic and great for everything from a dress to skinnies.  Finally, I have the tan suede pair in the bottom row (outfit post here) and they are so comfy!  Plus, tan suede is super on trend this season so definitely a great option to scoop up.


O U T F I T  D E E T S  :  PONCHO  |  FREE PEOPLE SWEATER (SIMILAR, LESS EXPENSIVE OPTION)  |  CHIQLE DENIM (SIMILAR)  |  ALDO BOOTIES (SIMILAR, SIMILAR & JUST PICKED UP THESE)  |  FRINGE BAG  |  ALDO SUNGLASSES (SIMILAR)  |  LIPSTICK

Ponchos are huge this year and the time to wear them is now.  I love the look paired over a sweater or snugger fitting, long-sleeved tee, however, it would look great over a leather jacket for some added warmth.  With so many options out there right now, you can easily make this trend your own, no matter what your budget.  Loving this stripe one & this poncho vest.  I've linked a few options down below if you ladies are interested.

For the boots, I've been living in these since picking them up a few weeks ago.  These are from last season, but new to me.  I was coveting them hard last year but never pulled the trigger and they never went on sale.  I finally scored them at 60% off the original price from the sale section, shocking they had my size--such a happy day!  

If you're in the market for new boots, an ankle boot with a chunkier heel is the way to go for Fall (or over-the-knee; you can't really go wrong with either).  The taupes and tans are super on trend, but black works too if that's more you.  These have become an everyday boot for me so look for something that is comfortable to walk in that you can pair with denim, cotton skinnies & leggings.


TEE (MEN'S SMALL)  |  DENIM  |  BANGLE

On Friday, we had a bunch of friends over to watch the Jays game.  Such a disappointing end, but what a great run.  I'm not huge into sports but was definitely rooting for them.  On the flip side, we had a ton of amazing food.



On Saturday morning, we headed out to Kingston to visit Marco's mom...
 
I went into Forever 21 the other evening and they had a ton of cozy, affordable items,great for Fall.  I love chunky knits, faux leather & oversized scarfs for this time of year, so sharing a few finds I loved.
 
Long tail or side-split tops are super trendy, an inexpensive version is the way to go.  I love the colour on that teal moto jacket & the v-hem on the grey sweater.  I haven't tried a midi dress yet but love it paired with the little ankle boots & a floppy hat.  Also, how chic is that faux leather dress?  I love that the hemline is longer which is classy but also great for my taller girls.
 
I'm obsessing over waistcoats this year--essentially a sleeveless jacket--and they are a super chic third piece to add over denim or a long-sleeved dress.  Those chunky-heeled ankle boots are real leather and a great price (my size is sold out, otherwise I'd be ordering them) & I own that stripe scarf in grey and wear it constantly.
 
Last year I bought sequin pants (3 ways to wear them here), which are great for the holidays, and you can't go wrong with an over-the-knee boot with a sturdy heel. 
 

Happy weekend ladies!  I'm know I'm a little late with the Friday Finds; we had a birthday dinner that went late on Thursday night and Friday was super busy.  

We ended up having a bunch of friends over Friday evening to watch the Jays game too, which resulted in Marco's famous chilli and some amazing apps brought by friends.  This weekend we are out of town visiting family & staying toasty indoors.  Hope you're having a great weekend!


Get in my closet.

There was an election in Canada this week.  This made me LOL.

On privilege.  (Wow)

How cozy is this blanket?  Reminds me of this Instagram.

Visiting Ottawa; how beautiful is this AirBnB?

This makes me want a (faux) maroon fur.

An easy way to save money.

We recently watched this movie; love it like the series.

Really love this parka.

Who likes rap music?  #raiseshand


Posts you may have missed:
* A Condo Update
* This weekend last year.
* New York City Recap



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It's been a while since I've shared any news about my condo that is being built and I have some exciting things to share.

Yesterday, I had an appointment to preview and approve the two slabs of granite for the kitchen and bathroom.  I went to the granite yard and they pulled the two sheets out for me to see.  The one above is going in the kitchen, which will be L-shaped and have a breakfast bar.  

I was a little concerned about the large spot in the top right hand corner, but the installers assured me they could work around it as this piece will be cut in three to form the countertop (breakfast bar piece + the long side of the L is cut in half to accommodate the placement of the stove).

O U T F I T  D E E T S :  ASHLEY B JACKET (SIMILAR)  |  ZARA SWEATER (SIMILAR)  |  DISTRESSED DENIM  |  ALDO BOOTS -- LAST SEASON BUT NEW TO ME (SIMILAR, SIMILAR, LOVE THESE)  |  BAG -- ON SALE  |  SCARF  |  ALDO SUNGLASSES (SIMILAR)

You know it's Fall when you break out the closed-toe boots & blanket scarves.  I'm loving this cool weather and getting my fix of layers on layers on layers.

This is a great weekend casual look--the faux leather jacket, knit sweater & fringe bag are great complimentary textures, and all in neutral tones which are perfect for Fall.  I love wearing distressed denim, they offer up a cool-girl vibe without trying to hard and are so on trend, you look instantly stylish.  Paired with a distressed, casual ankle boot, the look is effortless but comfortable at the same time.





JACKET -- OLD (SIMILAR, LOVE THIS)  |  TOP (BLACK, GREY)  |  CAMI  |  FLARES  |  BAG  |  SCARF (IN BAG)

This weekend was part fun, part productive.  On Friday I wore my new flares which are super long.  I have these jeans in a shorter length that work perfect for flats but have been on the hunt for a similar pair that is long enough for heels.  I have a hard time spending big money on denim so when I found these at Winners, it was a done deal.



MK BANGLE (SIMILAR)  |  THIN GORJANA BANGLE (SIMILAR)  |  ALDO RINGS  |  NAIL COLOUR

Friday's lunch--I'm a big fan of FarmBoy's salad bar and when I treat myself to it I always get this combination:  kale salad mix (with nuts, cranberries & wild rice), beets & ginger-sesame tofu.

Happy Friday friends--what ar your weekend plans?  Tonight we are going to see Kevin Hart (so excited!) and tomorrow there is a party with friends.  Hope you have a great weekend!


We went to a wedding last week and got a pic with the bride.


If this doesn't make you Jays fan...


What a muscle building day of meals looks like.

This made me LOL hard.

My friends say I need this watch.

How much sleep do you need?  I need a lot, but am a total night owl.

28 ways to enjoy pumpkin errrthang.



Posts you may have missed:
* You need these boots for Fall.
* This weekend two years ago.
* Moving into our condo...


(Photo of that topknot thing I'm currently enjoying).




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Hi ladies!  The Shopbop friends & family sale is currently on; everything is 25% off (use code: INTHEFAM25).

This is a great time to pick up some items you might have had your eye on but are a tad pricer.  Today is the last day of the sale so I'm sharing some of my favourites and a few items I've been eyeing for months...
I'm loving the off the shoulder ruffle top, it would pair so pretty with flares.  The first pair of flares are actually a ribbed knit which is so comfy and chic--I have a pair in grey.  Those army green peep-toes are to die for but sadly sold out in my size (they also come in black).


O U T F I T  D E E T S :  URBAN PLANET JACKET (SIMILAR)  |  TANK  |  LEGGINGS  |  PEEP-TOE BOOTIES - ON SALE!  |  BAG  |  SUNNIES

I love putting outfits together, but on days where I'm really pressed for time or unsure of what I want to wear, I go back to the basics.  Starting with an all black base is grounds for a great outfit.  The key is to pair different textures to keep it interesting.  

The faux leather leggings and the cotton top--which is chiffon in the back--adds a little something extra.  A large, black knit scarf would be a great complimentary piece to add, or a sweater if it's cooler.  From there, you can add in more black or a few colour pieces like I did with the jacket and suede booties.  

If you're unsure about mixing colours and textures, start with one colour and mix up the textures.  It's totally fine to wear black head to toe and play around with various fabrics.  Leather, suede, knit, cotton, chiffon, crochet & lace are all textures that pair well together and add interest to your look.



Happy Tuesday ladies!  This past weekend was Thanksgiving in Canada so it was a long weekend for me with tons of family & eating.  First though, some very sad news....


Happy Friday everyone & happy Thanksgiving weekend to my Canadian girls!  This weekend we are hosting Thanksgiving for everyone for the first time.  Last year we kind of hosted, but we missed the real Thanksgiving because we were in Barbados

This year, 11 people and the whole shebang--should be interesting.  I love to host, but it always makes me a little crazy before the guests arrive.  Marco is amazing though, and always takes the role of head chef while I frantically run around stressed out trying to hold it together.  Ha!  Hope you have a great weekend!


This is a Thanksgiving staple in our family.

I love these fringe iPhone cases.

21 ways to look like a blogging pro.

Layers done right.

What a cute Etsy shop.

Love this side-slit sweater (affordable too!).

Some Halloween costumes over the years.

Just pre-ordered this amazing cat bed for Eve.  #officalcatlady



Posts you may have missed:
* This time last year: building my walk-in closet (room tour here)
* Thanksgiving weekend 2013



(Photo of warmer, patio weather, at Pure Kitchen).




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O U T F I T  D E E T S :  FLOPPY HAT (LAST SEEN)  |  OPEN-BACK TOP  |  H&M FLARES (SIMILAR)  |  SCARF  |  IRO HEELS  |  BAG

Floppy hats are huge for Fall and I've added two to my wardrobe thus far, a burnt orange one and this basic black--and next on the wish list: this grey stunner (inexpensive option that I love).

I'm pairing mine with everything from this look, to boyfriend jeans and skinnies but it would also be so pretty with a long sleeved dress and tall boots or a chunky, sweater dress (pair a long sleeved top underneath or a leather jacket on top for warmth).




O U T F I T  D E E T S :  TOP (ALSO PURCHASED IT IN GREY)  |  URBAN PLANET SKINNIES (SIMILAR)  |  OVER THE KNEE BOOTS  |  H&M BAG (SIMILAR)  |  ADLO SUNGLASSES (SIMILAR)  |  NECKLACE

Keeping with yesterday's theme, these are another item in my top five 'to wear' items: tan suede over-the-knee boots.  

These ones are real suede and have a chunky heel, which makes them easy to walk in.  As soon as I put them on, it was a yes because again, they are so comfortable.  It's pretty rare I will wear uncomfortable shoes nowadays.  I used to put up with the pain before, but perhaps that's just the older and wiser me who refuses to do it anymore.  Not saying I'm going to be running errands for hours on end in these, but safe to say they could definitely go the distance.

I'm naturally drawn to black and nude for footwear and although these boots come in black, I opted for the tan colour because it's so on trend for Fall.  I will be pairing these with distressed and dark denim, leggings & skirts or dresses (likely in neutral colours because you know me).  I've linked some pretty suede boots below if you're up for some shopping.




O U T F I T  D E E T S :  ZARA SWEATER (SIMILARSIMILAR)  |  ZARA PANTS (LOVE THESE)  |  PEEP-TOE BOOTIES  |  TASSEL NECKLACE  |  H&M FRINGE BAG (SIMILAR)  |  SUNGLASSES ON SALE!

Peep-toe booties are in my top 5 'to-wear' items for Fall.  It's the perfect season for them and the last chance to show of the toes before the snow flies (well, at least in my neck of the woods).  These ones are adorable with the little tassels at the back and the chunky heel makes them sturdy and so comfy!

I'm still loving coated or waxed pants for Fall, they essentially elevate your basic pants to a new level and with stitching or moto details, it really adds interest to the look.




On Friday night we took it easy and stayed in.  We did pop downstairs to the party room as there was a goodbye party for our Super and we wanted to wish him well.





Marco brought us home some Viet take-out (heaven in a bowl!) and I spent the evening editing my on-set PDO photoshoot vlog.


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