Tuesday's OOTD - Wine About It

I am one sad panda. I titled this blog post “Wine About It” because I am wearing wine and I’m now going to whine. Yesterday I started the leaky gut diet to try and clear up a vast array of health issues. There is basically nothing to eat – at least nothing that I WANT to eat so I’m feeling pretty sorry for myself. Fruit, yogurt, cheese, anything processed, and wine *GASP* is out of the question! *whimpering softly* I will let you know how this goes if I can stick to it. Have you ever gone on a diet for health? Let me know how it worked for you in the comments below.

Oh yeah… time to discuss what I’m wearing. I was online and broke down and finally bought some over the knee boots. I mean look at them. They are fabulous! And they were $10! So I teamed the boots up with a handmade shrug. A lady makes them at our church for $30! If you want one let me know and I can give you her contact info. It’s so great because there is no up or down to it – you just throw it on! I thought I’d just go for simple after that and wear all grey. And of course a hat. Because I like hats. Very much.

Hat: Ardene // Sunglasses: Thrifted Coach for $15! // Sweater: Joe Fresh // Necklace: c/o Bella’s Treasure // Pants: Walmart (In Stores Now) // Boots: JustFab Online (Similar)

And no, my Christmas decorations are no longer up. These photos were taken during the Christmas season. Yes. I’m that organized. 😀

Monday's Meme

Friday's Faux Paw

I don’t understand why some humans don’t dress their age. Everyone has had their younger years at one time and need to eventually step aside and let the next generation wear the clothes you once wore that now are no longer appropriate for you.

Ladies, when I see a woman over the age of forty wearing whiskered jeans, I want to know if she thinks she’s cool that she raided her teenager’s closet. Not only do you look stupid, but you also look heavier than you are due to the horizontal striping (whiskering) on your thighs. Whiskered jeans are only to be worn in your 20’s and if you have a boyish body – ie. no hips or thighs. Rockstars and models can also get away with this style. So if you’re not listed here, please don’t wear them.

 

Gentlemen, your example of not dressing your age for today is not wearing motorcycle clothing especially if you don’t own a motorcycle. When you do this you look like a middle-aged poser. Put on some age appropriate khakis and a polo shirt. You will thank me when the ladies actually start showing you some interest.

These are only two of the many examples for dressing too young for your age. Maybe if you’re lucky and recommend this blog to everyone you meet, someday I will list other age faux paws.

My big tip of the day is don’t shop at stores aimed at teenagers or people in their 20’s. The clothing styles are made smaller and cheaper looking for the youngsters, More often than not, the styles are too young for the mature woman or man.

 

 

Top American Fashion Bloggers

A few weeks ago I shared my favourite Canadian bloggers. If you missed that post, you can find it here. I don’t want to miss mentioning my American favourites so today I thought I’d share four awesome American fashion bloggers. Each one is different and yet so very inspiring to me. From funky, to mimalist chic, to print mixing pro, to diva on a dime, these fashionistas will have you looking fab in no time.

Elsie from @polishedwhimsy is so versatile. You name it, she’s styled it – ripped jeans, print mixing, scarves, leopard print shoes, one epic faux fur coat – the list goes on and on. I love seeing each day what she comes up with. She’s just so inspiring.

If you want to follow someone who looks like she just stepped out of a fashion magazine, then look no further. Lena from @lenaxstyle is gorgeous and knows her way around jeans, coats, boots, etc. her effortless chic outfits are the epitome of street style. She is also very grounded, humble, and sweet.

I don’t even know her name but I do know that @glamchiefinsta is the bomb! She styles the most interesting outfits while spending very little money. Does she sacrifice style to save? On the contrary! Her outfits are freakin’ epic! Her cape collection alone is to die for.

Proving that life ain’t boring, Shawn from @ladyinstripes has the best scarves I have ever seen. And watch out folks, ’cause she knows how to use them! Shawn proves that you don’t have to wear tulle or something trendy to be fashionable. Her photos ooze fun and happiness and show that you can be on point if you just put in that extra bit of effort.

 

 

 

Only one week left to enter!!!

Only one week left to win your very own “Flashdance Top”! The winner gets to choose one of the colours in the photo below as well as their size S, M, L, or XL.

The contest is open internationally and will end Wednesday March 1st, 2017 at midnight Mountain Standard Time. Enter here. Good luck!

Tuesday's OOTW - Buffalo Stance

“We always hang in a Buffalo Stance, We do the dive every time we dance, I’ll give you love baby not romance, I’ll make a move nothing left to chance, So don’t you get fresh with me.” Neneh Cherry

Nothing beats a new blog post that starts our with 80’s lyrics. I’m madly in love with my new London Fog Buffalo plaid boots. I watched and waited until they went on sale and my patience paid off. I searched the internet to get some fashion inspiration on how to style them and found nothing. So I decided to do some subtle print mixing with a camo tank top. Paired with my field jacket and some leggings, I think it’s a simple look anyone can wear. As a fashion blogger, I wanted to be outstanding in my field so I got my photographer husband to take photos of me out standing in my field. Actually it is someone’s else field.

Sunglasses: Thrifted Coach for $15! // Earrings: Forever 21 // Choker: Bella’s Treasure Jewelry // Jacket: Old Navy // Tank Top: Forever 21 (Similar) // Leggings: Walmart // Socks: Walmart (In Stores Now) // Boots: London Fog from Hudson’s Bay (Similar)

Monday's Meme

Friday's Faux Paw

I have come to the realization that I have been neglecting all of the gentlemen out there. You guys commit just as many (if not more) faux paws than the ladies, so I will share one with you right now. Backpacks are super. They carry a lot of stuff. However, when you graduate from university it is time to stop using them – unless you are hiking, camping, going to the gym etc. Remember Justin Timberlake sings about a suit and tie NOT a suit and backpack and with good reason. It is quite immature to see a guy in an expensive Armani suit, wearing Nunn Bush shoes and carrying a backpack. There is a well-known invention called a briefcase people, so use it! Or even get a satchel. Just no more backpacks or you get this rating:

Bella Latina - Home of the Colombian Butt Lift Jeans

This is a sponsored post.

I was so blessed to have an email from the people at Bella Latina Jeans. They wanted me to grab a free pair of jeans to try and see what I thought of them. I decided to show up in person so I could meet them and try on a whole bunch of different jeans because I wasn’t sure what I’d like.

First some background information on this awesome company:

Nelly Lee and her daughter Barbara originally hail from Venezuela. Upon arriving to their new home in Stony Plain, Alberta Canada in 2006, they found that there were many changes from their old home — changes that go beyond the drastic difference in weather. They had a hard time finding their favourite style of jeans here in the north — butt lift jeans. On trips back to Venezuela, they would bring back butt lift jeans. Before long, friends started to ask for some pairs to be brought back for them as well. As these numbers grew, it became obvious there was a market for these styles in Canada. This is how Bella Latina was born. Now, they are the Edmonton area’s #1 source for South American fashions.

South American jean manufacturers have been making butt lift jeans for many years. Some people say the style originated in Brazil, some say Colombia, depends who you ask. The jean is designed by the cut and composition of the material to gently lift and support the booty. The composition of the material ranges from 1 to 3% spandex material – 1 and 2% giving a firmer support, while 3% giving a more elastic feel similar to leggings. Both give a body hugging feel of comfort and flexibility combined with freedom of movement while offering support for the booty and control for the tummy.

Barbara and Nelly Lee

I totally have a flat butt and tummy control issues so I couldn’t wait to find my dream jeans. So off I went to their store with my husband and little guy in tow. The store is so pretty and Nelly and Gerald (Nelly’s husband) were so helpful and knowledgeable about what would look good on me. I ended up trying on way more pairs than I got photos of as they have so much variety.

Tons of cute jeans and more!

Dashing dark denims.

Such details on the pockets!

This pink pair was perfect for spring. Love the rose gold rivets!

This gorgeous teal pair was so stylish.

Want more junk in your trunk? These jeans had removable padding in the butt. Flat butt be gone! (The black thing hanging down is the tag.)

Soooooo, which pair did I end up choosing? None of the above! Even though I loved the above options, I chose a different pair than shown. Ready to see them? Here they are outside the store ’cause they are so epic I had to wear them home.

Earrings: eBay // Cardigan: H & M // Top: Walmart (In Stores Now) // Jeans: c/o Bella Latina Jeans // Shoes: Thrifted Ralph Laurens for $10!

With details like these, how could I resist?

Definitely traffic stoppers! 

I am so glad to be introduced to this brand. Their jeans are so comfy, stylish, and unique. I have already received tons of compliments while wearing them. My bum has never looked so good! And they just might have something at the till if you stop by their store. I kind of noticed a flyer that you can save 10% off any purchase, 15% off on purchases over $150, and 20% off on purchases over $200. You can invite friends to share your discount! How perfect is that?

Bella Latina Jeans is committed to carry the highest quality product available. They have over 150 different styles from the top 5 jean manufacturers in Colombia. From high, medium and low waist, from skinny, straight and flare leg styles, they will find a jean that will look great on you. They also carry shorts, capris, tops, dresses, shape wear by Devanshi and high quality swimsuits by Kelinda. And if you can’t stop by their store, you can always order online at Bella Latina Jeans. And check them out on Facebook.

This is a sponsored post, however all opinions are my own.

Have you entered this sweet giveaway yet?

Have you entered our latest giveaway yet? One lucky winner is going to win their very own “Flashdance Top”. The winner gets to choose one of the colours in the photo below as well as their size S, M, L, or XL.

The contest is open internationally and will end Wednesday March 1st, 2017 at midnight Mountain Standard Time. Enter here. Good luck!

Tuesday's OOTW - Peacock Rocks!

First off – Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! Every day is Valentine’s Day when I’m with this guy:

A throwback shot of our honeymoon. Notice our well-rested faces before becoming parents. Ahhhh.

I am not the tallest gal in the world, but I am 5’8″ and I have troubles finding dresses that aren’t super short. I still like to rock a mini, however I go to Mass every Sunday and need dresses that are appropriate for a church setting. When I found this dress at a thrift store I fell in love with it immediately. It reminds me a lot of peacock feathers. I love that it’s long enough and has a vintage look to it. I feel like Joan Holloway when I wear it. This is one dress that even my non-print loving husband likes. Or maybe he just loves the attitude I have when I wear it. Hmmmm…

Sunglasses: Thrifted Coach for $15! // Earrings: eBay // Choker: eBay // Cardigan: Joe Fresh (Similar) // Dress: Thrifted // Bag: Army & Navy (Similar) // Shoes: Thrifted Vince Camutos for $10! (Similar)

Monday's Meme

Friday's Faux Paw

I’m not allowed in buildings for the most part. This really depresses me as I wouldn’t mind shopping (especially for food) or heading to church. This faux paw has been passed on from Joelle to me and it is definitely worth sharing. I want to talk about those who wear inappropriate items to church, synagogue, temple, or any other religious service. “But I’m not religious so this Faux Paw isn’t for me!” you may be saying as you read this, however this does still apply to you. Someday you might have to attend a church wedding, funeral, baptism, etc and you also need to style yourself accordingly. This means no skirts above the knee, thigh-high boots, skin tight clothing, shorts, low cut tops, see through clothing, heavy make-up, and in some cases no bare shoulders. If you look like you’re heading to a club, you are not dressed properly. It is disrespectful to those who are religious to show up dressed trashily in a house of worship period. And in no case is it necessary. If you want so badly to be the center of attention, go somewhere else as I’m certain the people who are hosting the special occasion don’t need to be detracted from someone who needs style and etiquette lessons.

The Five Must Haves For Fall And Winter

Two great ladies over on Instagram (@cleveland8284 and @talizat) are hosting “The Five Must Haves” every woman should have in their closet for fall and winter. If you want to join in on the fun, simply post photos or videos on your Instagram account tagging them #The5MustHaves and @cleveland8284 and @talizat. I’m posting mine on Instagram today, but also thought it would be good to also do a blog post with my items. 

I live in chilly Canada where I can see snow for eight months at a time. so my first must have is a nice warm parka. I don’t look good in black, so I thought I’d buy a nice cobalt blue one. I got it on sale a couple years ago at the end of the season, I get lots of compliments on it, and I definitely won’t be getting lost in a snowstorm anytime soon!

My next must have item is a pair of warm boots. I wanted a pair that looked stylish and not bulky as I already have a pair of Sorel’s when the weather hits -35 Celsius (-22 Fahrenheit for my US friends). So I snagged these London Fog beauties on sale for $80. Loving the buffalo plaid and they are so comfy and light.

My third must have is a well-made cotton sweater. I find wool too itchy and acrylic is way too hot for me. I was so happy when this gorgeous cotton sweater went on sale at Old Navy for $15. It is warm, yet stylish without being too bulky. I like that it is a tunic style so I can wear it with leggings. And I absolutely love the colour! I also bought it in mustard and raspberry. 

My fourth must have is a knitted hat. It can get windy in the fall and downright brutal in the winter. My favourite knitted hat is this bun hat from ilex.every.day. I love that it is super soft so I don’t get an itchy forehead. The best part though is the hole at the top so I can wear my bun as the pom-pom! I can also wear my pony tail through the hole too! No more hat head worries while staying warm!

My final must have item is a blanket scarf. I know these are everywhere and are probably just a trend, but for me they are a way of life. I get too hot or too cold at the drop of a hat so I love wearing a blanket scarf around my neck. If I get too hot, I just take it off, but if I get too cold, I take it off my neck and wrap myself in it. So what if I decide to take a nap because it’s got me covered! 😉

So there you go! What are your five must haves for fall and winter? Let me know in the comments below.

New Giveaway For An Off The Shoulder Top!

I was just browsing online to check out upcoming trends and saw that the off one shoulder or “Flashdance” top is going to be in style for spring and summer 2017. Then I thought that it would be great to have a giveaway with such a top. So, one lucky winner is going to win their very own “Flashdance Top”. The winner gets to choose one of the colours in the photo below as well as their size S, M, L, or XL.

The contest is open internationally and begins today Wednesday February 8th, 2017 and will end Wednesday March 1st, 2017 at midnight Mountain Standard Time. Enter below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday's OOTW - Wine With Everything

I am loving my toque from Holly at ilex.every.day because it’s a lovely shade of wine and keeps me toasty warm. The fake fur pom-pom on it is the most awesome finishing touch. Paired with my cobalt parka, jazzy scarf, and thrifted $10 Sam Edelman snakeskin booties (which are $120 new) and winter isn’t so bleak and boring anymore. I’m so glad that there are other options for coats nowadays other than the standard black, brown, and gray. Although those are classic and very chic colours, I look too washed out in those colours due to my fair skin and red hair. Would you wear a bright coloured coat for winter? Let me know in the comments below.

Knitted Hat: c/o ilex.every.day // Sunglasses: Joe Fresh // Scarf: ??? // Gloves: Reitmans // Coat: Sears // Cardigan: Joe Fresh // Tank Top: Giant Tiger // Cords: Joe Fresh // Booties: Thrifted Sam Edlemans

Monday's Meme

Friday's Faux Paw

What I wish to discuss today is wearing running/athletic shoes in public that you wear to go to the gym. I am not talking about fashion sneakers which are fine with the right outfit. Yes I know your gym shoes are comfortable, but unless you’re at a gym or out for a run or walk this really looks like you’ve given up on yourself. Quite often a whole outfit is built from your shoes. So if you start out with runners, then you’ll grab jeans and a T-shirt. Now you’re wearing a whole outfit of boring. Why not try a cool pair of Converse street shoes, Adidas kicks, or a chic pair of ballet flats? You could also wear oxfords, loafers, or ankle boots. If you find yourself constantly reaching for your runners – put them in your gym bag where they belong and you won’t be tempted to wear them in public.

Top Canadian Fashion Bloggers

Image Courtesy Of Pexels

I thought it was high time that I gave a shout out to the Canadian fashion bloggers whom I admire. From across the Great White North, from vintage to modern, from casual to flashy these ladies have got it going on! I am inspired almost daily by something they are wearing. They even manage to look super stylish in the dead of winter! I’ll also be sharing their Instagram handles so you can check them out. O Canada indeed.

First up is my friend Amber from The Canadian Fashionista @canadianfashionista1 out in London, Ontario. She knows how to go from casual to dressy in the beat of a heart. A wizard in the wardrobe department, she will have you mixing prints in no time! Also her home decor is to die for. All this and cute doggies too? Sign me up!

 

Rebecca from Winnipeg Style @winnipegstyle (from Winnipeg, Manitoba of course) has the most epic vintage inspired outfits. I never know what she is going to come up with next. From tulle to Hudson’s Bay coats, she knows how to rock a look. And did I mention her purses? Swooooooon.

 

Tara from @akward_gazelle is so wonderful at the edgy, chic look. She puts together outfits at bargain prices that blow my mind! I love the rustic backgrounds she finds for the perfect shot. Even though she lives here in Edmonton, Alberta I don’t know her. But I do know her style kicks some serious a$$! And major props for shooting a mini in this artic weather.

 

And from Victoria, British Columbia Shayna @fashionbeforefunction is a real sweetheart. She is always informing her followers of a great sale, putting together a cute flatlay, or styling a great outfit. I love that I can never expect what she’s going to put up in her feed next.

Who won our recent giveaway?

Who won our giveaway for a choker, pair of tassel earrings, and a bracelet?

Congrats to Kim PC!

We’ll be sending you an email right away.

Kim won by tweeting our giveaway to her followers!

Thanks so much for all who entered. Stay tuned for another giveaway soon.