Happy Valentine

   

Whether you're celebrating with a special loved one or enjoying the day solo, taking a day to remember and delight in the love that surrounds us is always a good idea.  Even if romance isn't in the air for everyone, there are many kinds of love to rejoice in - certainly the love of friends and family is always something to be grateful for.  And certainly, taking some time to invest in loving and caring for yourself is always worthwhile too.  To that end, I've shared a few little bits and bobs that I think would be the perfect little treats for a love-filled day, whether your being treated or simply treating yourself!     If ever there was a "healthy" and beautiful chocolate bar, the new Chocolate Bon Bons palette from Too Faced (or any of their Chocolate Bar palettes, for that matter) is certainly one of them.  A gorgeous set of wearable shades that even smells like chocolate = perfection.     A sparkling and glittery bauble is something I love any day of the year.  I personally love this classic pavé chain-link bracelet from J. Crew.     It might be a little bit cheesy or kitschy, but I can't help but enjoy this sweet little heart-shaped Secret Admirer bag from Kate Spade - it's totally adorable.     I'm a huge fan of the Hello Kitty x OPI collection (more on that later), and this sparkling rosy pink polish, Starry-Eyed for Dear Daniel is absolutely gorgeous on, and especially perfect for a love-filled day like today.     There's nothing like a gentle aroma to lift the spirits, and so for me, a lovely scented candle is never amiss when relaxation and indulgence are the words of the day.  This rosewater, cherry and violet scented pick, Loose Lips, by Byredo, is just the ticket for a Valentine's Day scent.      Continuing on with beautiful scents, this new perfume from Miu Miu has been on my wishlist for a while, and it's not simply because of the totally stunning packaging (although as a lover of perfume bottles as much as perfume itself, it certainly helps.  I got a sample of this and used it up almost immediately - the central note, lily of the valley, is one of my very favourite floral scents, so it comes as no surprise that I love this fragrance.      So it might be a major splurge item, but I think this Cat Nap Set from Charlotte Olympia would be the perfect gift, or also the ideal way to treat yourself.  With sweet snoozy kitten slippers and matching sleep mask, what's not to love?
Lastly, it wouldn't be a true wish-list of mine without a book. Obviously. I am smitten with all things Paris (my dream to visit has yet to come true) and I would love to get my hands on this inspiring collection of chic looks, Paris Street Style. The ultimate inspiration for Parisian-chic dressing.     No matter what your relationship status, I hope you find yourself surrounded by love today.     Happy Valentine's Day!     Follow

Wishlisted: All of the Books!

The holiday season is upon us (already??) and I, like most people, am hurriedly shopping around for gifts for friends, family members and loved ones.  I'm admittedly also eyeing a few things I'd love to find under the tree myself, and as such, am putting together a few little wishlists of my own here on the blog. First up? You guessed it - books!

I am a reader, always have been.  I love browsing bookshops, the smell of old books, looking at pretty book covers, arranging and re-arranging my bookshelves, the list goes on.  As such, it should come as no surprise that I've always got a selection of books on my radar - featuring fiction, non-fiction, Canadian literature, fashion and cookbooks to name a few.  These are some bookish picks that I'd love to crack into, this Christmas or any time, really.
The Heart Goes Last by Margaret Atwood (my favourite!)
The Oppostie of Loneliness by Marina Keegan
Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue by Grace Coddington
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Dumplin': Go Big or Go Home by Julie Murphy
Humans of New York: Stories by Brandon Stanton
Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling  (Thanks to my BFF Holly for already giving me a copy of this!)
Deliciously Ella by Ella Woodward
Face Paint: The Story of Make-up by Lisa Eldridge
Mad Miss Mimic by Sarah Henstra
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Are there any books on your wishlist this year?
Follow

Spring Dreaming

Today marked the first real sign that spring might not be too far in the distant future - the sun was shining, the temperature was above zero (+6!!!) and the truly massive banks of snow were slowly but surely beginning to melt.  I wore a spring jacket and wasn't too cold!! Amazing!      After the absolutely insane winter we've been having, I think everyone on the Island is grasping onto these early-spring-like moments. And with warmer weather top-of-mind, I've been slowly but surely adding to my spring wishlist.  It probably comes as no surprise that pastels, floral, feminine details and a hint of sparkle are in the mix, I think I'm pretty predictable in this regard.  That said, I thought I'd share a few of the things I'm loving for spring.    A cute umbrella - practical and adorable = a match made in heaven.    Simple, delicate earrings are a long-time, constant favourite of mine.    I described this sweater to my co-worker as the "trifecta of my-style awesomeness: mint, flowers, sequins". Three of my very favourite things = must-have.    Having fun with glasses is the greatest, and I love love love this pair by 3.1 Phillip Lim via Clearly Contacts.    Remember what I said about loving flowers and sparkle? Yeah, this pansy bracelet fits the bill.    After hearing all about Jo Malone fragrances from my favourite beauty vloggers, I am dying to add one to my collection of perfumes.  Wild Bluebell, with its hints of spring flowers and citrus sounds like the ideal spring scent.    I have been obsessed with my Tarte Amazonian Butter lipstick in Plummy Rose, and would love to add Tulip to my collection.    My obsession with pretty notebooks continues, and I love this floral one from Rifle Paper Co.  These printed flats seem like the ideal spring pick with bright colours and yes, sparkling jewel embellishment: of course they made the cut!    This bag might be more dream than reality, but it is. So. Incredibly. Adorable. A flowerpot = the best! Utter spring perfection!

Last-Minute Christmas Wishes

  It's hard to believe that Christmas is almost upon us! I admit I have been enjoying the traditions of baking and decorating the tree (I keep sticking my face in the branches because I love the scent - so wonderful!), purchasing gifts for friends and loved ones, mailing cards to faraway friends and listening to favourite carols and festive tunes.

I think my friends and people who know me well find me pretty easy when it comes to Christmas gifts - anything fashion, beauty or book-related is generally very successful.  My sisters would likely tell you that I am usually the easiest person on their list to shop for for just that reason. That said, some folks have been asking me for a last few ideas, so I thought I'd share a few of the items I'd love to spot under the Christmas tree.   - These earrings! Tasteful, feminine, sparkly, perfect. - This absolutely gorgeous set of Zoeva make-up brushes. - Urban Decay's Naked3 palette. Because obviously. - The adorable glasses-bangle from Kate Spade. - Out of Print's amazing tote. - My namesake Nars Audacious lipstick in "Jane". - 1989 by Taylor Swift. I love it, and I am not ashamed to admit it. - Chasers of the Light, a book of poetry from Tyler Knott Gregson (whose tumblr full of perfect words I've been following FOREVER). - Everyday black pumps! Seriously need some new ones. And I love this pair. - A cozy, soft, loungy turtleneck. This one is perfect.   What are your last-minute Christmas wishes?

Wishlisted: Nineties Feeling

Dress / Glasses / Sweater / Boots / Polish / Lipstick

I promised myself I wouldn't, but I can't help but succumb to a little, rather nostalgic, love for the nineties feeling. It's a throwback to adolesence for me, and it is a bit fun to see the resurgence of some of the things I wore back then,  albeit with a bit of a more modern sensibility. I'm particularly loving the classic Doc Marten's, soft shades of brownish rose for lip, floral dresses and heavy knits.

Now pardon me while I rewatch episodes of My So-Called Life and early Felicity for further sartorial inspiration.

Summer's End: A Wishlist

It's been a rather shameful couple of weeks since my last post. I have no excuse other than I've moved provinces for what seems like the millionth time in as many months. I've been living the life of a nomad of late, and have yet to put down roots in one spot, for too long. I'm hopeful that will change though. Always an adventure. I've got lots of hopes, dreams and plans for this little blog of mine and I hope that those of you who are still with me will enjoy the journey.

Even though - or perhaps because - it is still scorchingly hot (over 40 with humidity today = spending the afternoon in the pool) here in Ontario, I am eagerly awaiting cooler climes and the fashion options that go along with them. I've cobbled together a few of the items on my fall wishlist, some more realistic than others. But as a girl with a fall birthday, I can hope!

1. A cozy, oversized sweater, that I plan to wear with, well, everything.
2. Pearls, pearls and more pearls. Specifically these, from J. Crew.
3. Charlotte Tilbury blush in Love is the Drug. Totally looks like a boob, but I love the colour, ha.
4. Fun new pastel frames. Loving this pair from Bonlook.
5. Simple bangles, like this one from Kate Spade. Stacks of these? Yes please.
6. Seriously so in love with this perfect leather backpack. Reminds me of this moment (even if it isn't Prada).
7. The perfect pair of boyfriend jeans. I used to be a hater, but I am currently loving this style.
8. Lavanila perfume in Pure Vanilla. I had heard about this scent from an EssieButton video, and finally smelled it at Shopper's Drug Mart while shopping with my niece. Nearly died: It is wondrous.
9. These insanely perfect, if impractical, fighter-cat printed heels. Because they are everything.
10. Last but not least: colourful scarves, such as this blue beauty. Okay, I admit, this is not just a fall but an all-the-time wishlist item. I love scarves, all. the. time.

Any early fall items catching your fancy? Let me know in the comments!

A Bookish Christmas Wishlist

Snow is on the grown, Christmas lights are twinkling each evening and I've spent the last couple of days baking squares and other holiday treats. Feeling festive, happy and looking forward to the holiday. I've got almost all of my Christmas shopping done, something for everyone on my list! But I thought I'd put together my own dream wishlist with a decidedly bookish theme. 

A comfy Pride and Prejudice sweater. Literature plus coziness = win.

A library-scented candle. I would love to fill my room with the scent of old books. Who wouldn't?

This beautiful set of classic children's literature from Puffin Classics.

This Olympia Le-Tan book clutch is what dreams are made of.

The perfect pink lip and some new wintry nail colours.

Fashionable fairy-tales? Yes and more yes.

Seriously perfect cat-eye frames from Warby Parker.

"Boys make passes at girls in glasses" - an adorable (and hopefully true?) bangle from Kate Spade.

What are you wishing for this Christmas?

Bloglovin / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest / Instagram

School-day Nostalgia

Lipstick: Joe Fresh Cuff: Ruche Tights: New Look Dress: Modcloth 
Pencils: Etsy Cambridge Satchel: Modcloth Shoes: Modcloth

For many this week marks the return to academia, be it school, university or heading back as a teacher or professor. I love this time of year, and especially since my sister is heading back to university this fall, I admit that I wish I was going back as well. There's just something so great about wandering through campus and attending each class for the first time.  

I don't know about you, but one thing I always looked forward to (and admittedly miss now) is back-to-school shopping, and picking out that first-day outfit. So to address my nostalgic need for scholarly style, I put together an ensemble that would be my pick, were I to be joining the studious masses this September. That said, it's also something I could quite easily wear to work, so this pretty little perfect fall dress might yet find its way into my wardrobe.

Bloglovin / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest / Instagram

Comptoir des Cotonniers x Calla

If you don't already know, Calla Haynes is a Canadian designer based in Paris. I've declared my love for her perfectly pretty designs before, but most recently I'm really excited by her collaboration with French brand, Comptoir des Cotonniers. So many soft, gorgeous prints that are exactly what I want to wear. My only sadness is that the e-boutique where these looks will be available (as of today!!) does not ship to Canada. Sadness. I'm hopeful that perhaps if I do get a piece or two that perhaps I can convince a friendly European resident to ship them to me (looking at you Cee!) - fingers crossed.

Bloglovin / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest / Instagram

Cozy Christmas

Reindeer Names Scarf: Topshop Ho! Ho! Ho! Sweater: Lot 78 Santa Toque: Eugenia Kim
Christmas Pudding Clutch: Charlotte Olympia Jingle Bell Mittens: Topshop Wine Reindeer Socks: Topshop
Charcoal Reindeer Socks: Topshop Purple Reindeer Socks: Topshop Boots: Sperry Topsider for J. Crew

As kitschy as seasonal items can be, I also think they're a lot of fun. I definitely think it's possible to wear festive pieces and not look like a victim of the infamous "Ugly-Christmas-Sweater" party. To prove my point, I've gathered together a few of my favourite cozy holiday-themed pieces perfect for days leading up to Christmas when Jack Frost is nipping at your nose. Best of all? They allow for a celebratory feeling without looking over-the-top or tacky.

Confession? I'm especially hoping "Santa" might bring me those Sperry Topsider for J.Crew boots. Love.

Bloglovin / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest

Almost-Birthday Wishes

From left: Cocoon Coat - J. Crew; Prada Cat-Eye Sunnies; Michael Kors Watch; Asos Jewelled Flower Necklace; Asos Jewelled Cuffs; Modern Vice Benni Boots; Chloé Eau de Parfum; Modcloth Lilac Bag; Frankie Magazine; and Happy Birthday Polish by Deborah Lippman.

Since it so happens that I have an imminent October birthday, I thought it justifiable to share my wishlist replete with a few things I've been loving over the last little while. It's pretty clear to anyone who knows me that I have an ongoing love for bright colours (esp. jewel tones!) and sparkle - which I think is pretty obvious with my choices here!

I haven't got much planned other than dinner with my family - I am generally not a fan of a big b-day celebration. It's been a bit of a rough 2012, so I'm hopeful that this year my birthday will mark a fresh start with bigger and better things on the horizon.

Bloglovin / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest

Cats by Posh

Back when the Spice Girls were in their heyday  (oh hello junior high) I would never have predicted that clothing produced by one such girl would find its way onto my wardrobe wishlist, but that day has arrived. The diffusion line by former Posh Spice -  Victoria, Victoria Beckham is pretty much filled with adorable dresses that I loved immediately upon seeing them.

Case in point? The above cat print dresses (sadly sold out on Net-a-Porter) that I think would be perfect for my librarian-self. I don't own a cat but I love cat printed things. I know cat prints have been everywhere for ages, but I can't help myself. I like them!

What's on your wishlist lately?

Cardi-Clip

I think the longer I'm a Librarian the more I gravitate towards what fall into traditionally library-esque styles.  The latest example on my wishlist? The cardigan clip. I've been adding pretty and unique vintage ones to my ever-growing Etsy wishlist for ages, not to mention this lovely version from Ruche.  Famously sported by the always lovely fellow ginger Emma Pillsbury, they are right up there with vintage style cat-eye glasses on my list of librarian must-haves.