CHRONICLES

Tuesday 29 May 2012

Day & Night

So yesterday I finally had the chance to pick up a few items at Aritzia I've been eyeing for quite some time now and I must say, looking at them side by side I really cannot decipher my sense of taste. On the left side, I special ordered in this beautiful silk "Wilfred" lightweight camisole in an abstract/tribal print. I actually wanted this several months ago (with my boyfriend even offering to buy it for me right on the spot) but I reluctantly said no. Unfortunately, a few weeks later they were all sold out so I had to order this in again with a few weeks wait. So ladies (or gents) my biggest advice of the day for you is if you have the money now...buy it! I always make the dreaded mistake of thinking "ohhh...I'll just get it next time" and then BAM!* next time comes and it's sold out! Anyways, next on the right I also picked up this "Talula" oversized skull tank with low arm holes. As you can probably tell from my previous posts, I've outworn my white wolf tank and needed something different! I've actually wanted this since I worked at Aritzia but again...we sold out =.=" I love this tank though because it's edgy without being...uh scary LOL or too offensive. I recently ordered in spike bracelets so this will go perfect with it! Anyways, "big up's" to my lovely best friend Irene who have me a gift card to Aritzia for my birthday so that I could finally buy something (being the broke bhum I am)! Happy shopping readers, xo


1. Aritzia "Wilfred" Silk Camisole in Ocelot and 2. Aritzia "Talula" Skull Tank in Dark Grey/Black

Sunday 27 May 2012

Plain Jane

I usually like to keep my clothes and colours to a minimal and this outfit was quickly put together in a matter of minutes. I think a lot of times I tend to overthink what I'm going to wear, but lately the warm weather has inspired me to keep it chic and simple! I also managed to raid my mother's closet to find this lovely vintage piece that my father bought my mother when they were dating. I love vintage because it can be mixed with current trends to make a unique outfit! Have fun and enjoy your summer readers xo

OOTD: 1. Zara White "Silk" Top/ 2. Aritzia "Wilfred" High-Waisted Linen Black Shorts/ 3. Vintage White Leather Bag/ 4. Aldo White Lace Flats/ 5. Michael Kors Gold Watch/ 6. Aldo Feather Bracelet

Tuesday 22 May 2012

Wild Child

Happy Victoria's Day! I know I made an earlier post about my weekly tidbits but I completely forgot to wish everyone a very Happy Victoria's Day yesterday! In light of it all, my day was spent with one of my bestfriends, their boyfriend and their family in their neighbourhood park. We played frisbee, watched kids shoot noobish fireworks, swung on a very unstable swing, and ate an immense amount of food! It's been a while since I spent somewhat quality "family" time and going to the park for some physical activity was quite a nice change from shopping or going to the movies. Anyways, here's the outfit of the day and hopefully I'll be doing more in the future! xo

OOTD: 1. Aritzia "Talula" Graphic Wolf Tank/ 2. Aritzia "Wilfred" High-Waisted Linen Black Shorts/ 3. American Apparel Tribal Bandeau/ 4. Forever 21 Trbail Feather Necklace
Can you tell I'm obsessed with this tank?

Monday 21 May 2012

Weekly Tidbits

I just realized I haven't done a post in almost a week! I think it's because summer has finally come to Toronto and I'm enjoying the weather way too much! Anwyays, I will definitely post more throughout the week but for now here are just some photos of what I did in the past couple of days! Hope you're all enjoying the sunshine xo!












Tuesday 15 May 2012

Hello Hydration

Happy Tuesday everyone! Hope every is having a great day so far! Today I'm here with a post to talk about the Mac Mineralize Charged Water Moisture Gel. I absolutely love this product and for many good reasons too! Just to talk a little bit about my skin, I have combination skin meaning I'm very oily in my T-zone and then dry on the other parts of my face. So you can guess that it's extremely hard for me to find a moisturiser that doesn't feel like I've slapped on a heavy mask. However, after receiving a sample of this from MAC and one of my best friends buying me this for my birthday, I am so happy to say that I have finally found a product that works for my face! (and hopefully will work for yours too!)

What to look for at your local Mac store as well as its description on the MAC website:

"An ultra-light, gel-like cream that absorbs instantly to give the skin intense hydration. Infused with out exclusive Super-Chared Water technology, this formula leaves skin softer, more luminous. Use day or night."


So why should you purchase this? Let's way the pros and cons!

Pros: 
- No smell
- Quick absorption (fast and easy!)
- Works for all skin types (yes, even oily skin!)
- Good for sensitive skin (I use to have acne)
- Doesn't leave a greasy feeling on the skin
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight
- Very light-weight and perfect for the summer
- Leaves skin obviously hydrated!

Note: I think the best thing about this product is the way it makes my make-up look. I own the Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation and when initially buying it, I felt it was very dry on my face. However, the sales lady told me it was perfect for oily/combination skin. I tried using the moisturisers I had at home, but none looked as good with my make-up than the charged water gel. Even with my previous powders and foundations, this still gave my face a more flawless and softer look!

Cons:
- A bit costly. On the website it sells for $44.50
- Not the greatest packaging. I rather have this as a pump although I guess this would be a good carry on item when travelling



Lastly, I suggest that if you're a bit hesitant to purchase this to try out a sample first. This way you can see hour your skin reacts to a new product as well as how it fits your make-up routine. Also Mac has a great return policy that allows you to return even a used product in 30 days with the receipt. Anyways, this is just my opinion on the product and I really hopes it encourages anyone and everyone to try it out at least once! Also, if you have any other recommendations for a good moisturiser I would love to hear about it! Happy shopping, xo

Friday 11 May 2012

House of Harlow

Finally, I have received my 5 leather station necklace from the House of Harlow jewellery line and I could not be happoer! After seeing so many people at my old work, Aritzia, wear this lovely piece I finally broke down and bought one! The package came yesterday in the mail (several weeks before it said it would be here) and I've already worn in two days in a row. This will definitely be one of my closet staples! What your favourite jewellery piece? Have a lovely weekend  xo,

Sorry for the horrible shot on my living room floor. I was in a rush!


Outfitted with sheer white top and pastel pink pants (horrible lighting makes my pants look white!)
Worn

Wednesday 9 May 2012

And Tonight, I'm Cleaning Out My Closet

No, I am not talking about Eminem's old tune (although I think he was much better in his younger days), but I am talking about cleaning out that dreaded warp hole we all call our closet! For most, waking up in the morning and looking for the perfect outfit can be one of the worst parts of the day. You like your jeans, you hate your shirt. You have two great pieces, but it's cold out and you have to throw on that ugly sweater. And let's face it, we've all had days where this has happened:



But fear not! There are just a few things you can do to combat what may seem to be an extremely challenging task! Today, after being inspired by this beautiful weather we're having in Toronto, I am finally cleaning out my closet. I admit, I actually do not own a lot of clothes (one dresser and half a clothes rack to be exact) but I always find myself being bored with my clothes. So after a few tips from Lauren Conrad's book "Style" and various inputs from my friends and boyfriend, I am finally ready to tackle my closet and so can you!


1. Look for orphan pieces. These are pieces you bought long time ago and pretty much go with nothing in your closet. Maybe it's that old graphic shirt of Hello Kitty or a plaid shirt that just doesn't fit your style anymore. Anyways, get rid of it, it's most likely taking up room in your closet.


2. Stock up on basics. I cannot tell you how many basic shirts I own and various interpretations of the basic shirt. V-necks I find are the most flattering for women or low scoop necks. If you want to mix it up, find one with leather details or a tri-blend material (soo soft!)

3. Revamp it. If it fits well but it's too boring for you, consider doing a DIY project ie. studding or making it off the shoulder.


4. Sell it. If you're like me and broke as heck (currently living on two $5 bills my dad just gave me) then try selling the items (if they're in good condition!) Lots of websites like Kijiji or even groups on Facebook make it fun and fast!

5. If you can't part with it, put it away. I know this defeats the purpose of cleaning out a closet, but if you spent a lot of money on one thing or it has sentimental value for you it may not be time to give it away just yet. Stash it in a box, duffle bag or have a friend hold it for a month. If by the end of the month you didn't even want to wear it, it's most likely time to ditch it.


6. Ditch it. If something has a hole, stain, tear you can't get rid of, throw it away. Anything else, think about donating it! It's a little bit more rewarding and comforting that way! (Tip from Lauren Conrad's "Style")


7. Finally, when shopping for new clothes ask a sales associate to find something to match with it. Sometimes it's hard to like an item because we don't see it fully outfitted. Sales associates are there because they are fashion experts (most of the time) so I'm sure they'd be happy to find something trendy to go with that one shirt you're trying on (just let them know your sense of style). This may not be as true for places like Forever 21 but other stores like Aritzia or Club Monaco have a service where you can arrange to have a shopping session with an employee. You don't necessarily need to buy the whole outfit but it does help you think about what you already have and can match with it!

8. Be yourself. Try on clothes you know you will wear not hope you can rock one day. I know sometimes it's good to step out of your comfort zone, but when building a wardrobe start off with pieces you're comfortable with and then work up from there!


Monday 7 May 2012

We Cannot Solve Our Problems With The Same Thinking We Used When We Created Them

-- Albert Einstein

Style Board

I think everyone has a difficult time labelling a certain style they have/are drawn too and that's why I think a style board is such a great tool to use when trying to figure out what items, celebrities or trends people naturally gravitate towards! The board came be simple. It can be just an ordinary bulletin board with cut outs of magazines, website photos, fabrics etc. or it can something like a notebook where you write down things you saw in stores or online (along with the price). I think by doing this and finding a common theme, colour, pattern etc.in these photos, individuals can at least have an easier time shopping for certain products! For example I have a best friend who has is very much into the "romantic/sweet" look while another one of my friends is a little bit more "edgy". That being said, the more "romantic" friend might be more interested in shops like Zara, Forever 21 and H&M while the other may be more into things like Hot Topic or for instance, certain areas of Forever 21. As for me personally, I have no idea what style I am. I seem to be drawn to different trends at different times, but for some reason I always come back to something graphic, street, edgy or just plain comfortable! Anyways, here is just my little take on a style board ! Happy shopping xo,

Photos from various websites, friends or tumblr.











Sunday 6 May 2012

Tres Avant Garde

A few days ago was one of my close friend's birthday and I can't help but thinking all of my friends will soon be the age of 21 (which is extremely strange since I've known most of them since I was 14)! On the actual day of his birthday his girlfriend, my boyfriend and I all headed down to his old neighbourhood for a mid day lunch at a local bar. Our server was so nice, moving our table outside so that we could eat while taking care of Cocoa (John and I's puppy) and even took a few photos of us while we munched away at our food. Next we headed to High Park to catch a glimpse of the cherry blossoms before they all fell. It was a bit of a gloomy day, but it was definitely still fun venturing off in search for the perfect spot to relax (if you live in the Toronto region, I highly suggest you to go see them before it's too late!) Anyways, the day was nicely topped off with a trip to IKEA and then a horrid horrid experience watching the movie "Cabin in the Woods." Nevertheless, an awesome day for an awesome guy! Happy birthday Chris!

OOTD (not worn going to High Park but to the Crawford for his birthday party): 1. Aritzia "T.Babton" Silk Blouse/ 2. Aritzia "Talula" Graphic Wolf Tank/ 3. BCBG High-Waisted Tribal Skirt/ 4.  Aldo Suede Heels (I actually changed to flats because I was super tired)/ 5. Michael Kors Gold Watch/ 6. H&M Two Tier Necklace
Steak wrap with a side of salad...so good!
Portobello sandwich and a side of yam fries (my boyfriend always get some sort of fries and burger combo)
The birthday celebrant and his lovely girlfriend, Jacqui!
Relaxing and feeding Cocoa
The few cherry blossoms left
Pink and pretty
Cocoa all puckered out

Thursday 3 May 2012

Cherish

“If you find a girl who reads, keep her close. When you find her up at 2 AM clutching a book to her chest and weeping, make her a cup of tea and hold her. You may lose her for a couple of hours but she will always come back to you. She’ll talk as if the characters in the book are real, because for a while, they always are. Date a girl who reads because you deserve it. You deserve a girl who can give you the most colorful life imaginable. If you can only give her monotony, and stale hours and half-baked proposals, then you’re better off alone. If you want the world and the worlds beyond it, date a girl who reads.”



Eat, Pray, Shop

Finally had the chance this week for a little TLC and treated myself to mini shopping expedition. I realized I couldn't really afford any clothes at the moment so I settled on some pieces  I have been eyeing for some time in the jewellery section of H&M! I have a new love and that thing is called rose gold but I couldn't help but pick up a few gold statement pieces as per usual. Below are a few things I bought myself and got for my birthday :) Here's hoping you all treat yourself to some tender, love and care...and a little shopping xo







H&M Rose Gold Choker- I have been looking for the perfect gold choker, but after countless adventures for this little item, I settled fell in love with this rose gold one! It's thin enough so that it doesn't overpower an outfit, but is still really quite feminine.

H&M Gold Two Tier Necklace- I wanted a necklace that was simple but could be added on to any outfit for a more enhanced look. I love pairing this with graphic shirts. The second tier makes it unique and edgy!

H&M Colour Block Bracelets- Bought by John, these are the perfect little bracelets for stacking! If you're not into the pastel/colour blocking trend of the season, incorporating the trend into jewellery is the perfect little touch!

ASOS Gold Cuffs- Ugh, I'm in a love/hate relationship with this item! I purchased this pair online but after receiving it today in the mail I had to send it back. Sadly, these pieces cannot fit my tiny tiny writs :( They look amazing though, and I really wished they had worked out!

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation- I have finally found a powder/foundation that works for me! My skin is combination/oily and this product keeps oil at bay (thank goodness)! It has medium coverage, but it can be built upon for a more flawless look. I would definitely recommend this product for anyone who is still searching for that holy grail! My colour is NC42.

Aldo Brown Sandals- Funny enough, these were on sale and I needed a pair ASAP. I was between this pair and another one with a wedge but sadly, the one with the wedge did not fit me properly in the ankle! The other pair was definitely more fashionable, but in this case I chose these for function.

House of Harlow Black Leather Station Necklace- Ordered this from Amazon FINALLY! I know I've been raving about it since forever, but after seeing my friend buy it I knew I just had to have it. I can't wait for it to come in the mail!