Eye Spy

As an attempt to curb an over-indulgent and expensive habit I live by one simple rule; I am only allowed to buy sunglasses every OTHER year!

And as it appears, THIS is my year, woohoo!

Usually I jump on this opportunity, but sadly, this year, I have been struggling to find that “perfect pair”.

It started in Italy, where hubby was practically begging me to choose a pair. Even though the Prada sunnies I had coveted for the past 10 months were within my grasp I said no, multiple times, and walked away sans new sun glasses. (IDIOT!) I then spotted them at the duty-free in the Toronto airport and once again passed them up.

Why was I having such a hard time committing to a new pair?

I realized this past weekend my hesitation was due in part to the fact that there are waaaay too many options out there. I’m not talking color, or designer, or even price range, but just style alone can paralyze the indecisive shopper.

Which style is trendy this year? Good question, personally I believe the answer to that is cat eye!  Or maybe aviator… no it could be round, or vintage, maybe its wire…oh who the hell knows? All I know is that if you’re like me and already have 1. a classic brown light frame 2. an aviator and 3. a “movie star” pair of big black framed sunnies, you are basically set for life.So now you’re asking why I would want another pair if I already have those three “classics”; you do know I’m a hoarder, right? 

Just in case anyone else is experiencing the same anguish over such a big commitment, I have put together a list of potential suitors.  From an array of styles and in different price ranges, here is your summer sunnies shopping guide! 

1. Aviator: When you hear the word aviator do you not automatically think RAYBANS? That is why I refuse to wear Rayban aviators. There are so many other possibilities out there, and many in the same price range.

These Marc by Marc aviators are a perfect example. I like the gold version best. They are as light weight as you can possibly find. Available from Shopbop. If you're looking for an aviator that will stand out from the crowd and not just your basic wire frame pair, check out these House of Harlow "Lynn" sunnies. 

2. Cat Eye: Definitely my favorite style this year. I think these Stella McCartney's from Shopbop are gorgeous. 

I know this shape of frame is not for everyone. But surprisingly its more flattering than you think.  It suits many different face shapes so I suggest trying on a pair, you may be pleasantly surprised. 

3. Oversized: I absolutely love oversized sunglasses for the exact same reason I suspect celebrities love them, they hide most of your face and make you feel extra glamorous. 
These Ombre Oversidzed Glasses from Anthropologie hit all those marks but are trendy enough to not be stuffy or too old fashioned.

4.Statement: I have several pairs of statement sunglasses and they are all "cheap", like I'm talking under $20. The only exception is a pair I picked up with one of my best friend's back in 2008 from Topshop in the UK. We were travelling to Paris later on that week and thought a pair of trendy, Euro style glasses would be a smart accessory. That's one purchase I do not regret  I still have those glasses and I love them just as much 5 years later. That lead me to believe that I should invest in a designer pair.

Sheriff&Cherry makes these fun statement glasses, they are fairly reasonably priced as well, so if you want to try out something "different" but still want something more practical as a backup, you wont break the bank. 

EDITORS NOTE: Haha I always wanted to write that. Anyways, at the time of posting I have FINALLY purchased a new pair of sunglasses. I also decided calling them “sunnies” is stupid. My new babies are Stella McCartney, found on super sale at the new hr2 in Vaughn Mills Mall. 

Spectacular Summer Super Sale Showdown

This morning I visited one of my fav online shopping sites,Shopbop, and noticed they were extending their super sale AND adding an additional 25% off for 3 days only. You can shop the sale HERE,and reap the rewards of the 3 day sale by simply entering the code  EXTRA25 at checkout.

Shopbop isn't the only one having a fantastic sale at the moment, oh no. As I have previously mentioned it is that time of year when online retailers are practically GIVING AWAY their goods. So I've rounded up my favorite online shops and decided to share with you some of the best items that are currently on sale at the moment.

Buckle up, it’s about to get crazy… (a bit over dramatic ) I apologize in advance this is a long post, but when you save $400 on a pair of designer shoes you can thank me later, ok?

1. Net-A-Porter: This is where dreamers comes to dream. Checking daily to see if that pair of Gucci pumps or the Proenza clutch they added to their “wish list” has been reduced further. Items come and go so quickly, new items are added daily, and further reductions (up to 70% off) take place constantly, its magical, and the “limited quantities” alerts they provide are quite helpful, while still adding to the thrill of the find.  I have scored some serious items from this sale, in fact, my the first item ever purchased from Net-A-Porter were my pony hair espadrilles by Christian Louboutin; I am wearing them today, four years later, they have served me well at 50% off! :)

Check out my picks from the sale below, and take a look for yourself, I am certain you won’t be able to walk away without creating your own wish list.

If you're into super cute and awesome clutches that are perfect for summer look no further. Usually Anya Hindmarch is out of this world expensive but looky look this is 40% off. Still an investment but a special item to add to any wardrobe. 

This is actually pretty outrageous, an Etro blouse for $225 . Regular price was $750, so ya, enough said.

2. Yoox:  I just recently discovered Yoox, they sell everything under the sun. Including children wear and ART! And their sale, well it’s incredible. Currently most of their spring/summer collection is at 50% off.

My picks are below, and p.s they currently have A LOT of Missoni on sale; A-LOT!

Missoni espadrille sandals for $149. 

J Brand denim for under $110, yes please.

3. Far Fetch:I have always loved Far Fetch, the concept is amazing, they carry fashionable items from boutiques all around the world. So you could be shopping in Italy one minute and the Netherlands two minutes later.  Of course they carry all the staple designer lines such as Wang, Stella, Valentino, Versace etc, etc. Bu they also carry many, many contemporary designers, and tons I am sure you have never heard of but would love to own. It’s a great place to become acquainted with a fantastic new designer.

What I believe to be the perfect accessory to liven up any outfit. They are even better stacked, and at half off you can buy two :) Alexander Mcqueen skull bangle 

4.Nordstrom: Toronto is getting a Nordstrom! Yep, my “happy place”, Yorkdale Shopping Center is building a three-level, 188,000 square foot store which will open in fall 2016.  As a first-to-market, it will be a thrilling experience to shop in Nordstrom in Canada, but why not test the waters early by doing someone online shopping? With up to 50% the current sale is pretty kick ass, But if you have some patience, and wait just two more weeks you can catch their bit ANNIVERSARY sale!

This is Nordstrom's biggest sale of the year, and it begins July 19^th.  Next season's styles will be making their debut, and they will be on sale for a limited time at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale happening July 19th through August 4^th. If this sounds incredible, that’s because it is! I suggest shopping early to avoid missing out on your size and the items you want. 

New fall styles available pre-season and they are on sale! What's not to like?

For now, here are some of the current sale items for you to check out.

These Marc by Marc Jacobs stretch bracelets are so cheap you can buy a bunch and stack em. 

Kate Spade at 30% off is a really enticing deal. Seems like all the spring summer line of accessories is currently on sale. 

6. Shopbop:  as previously mentioned, Shopbop is holding a special 3 day sale extravaganza! Head over and feast your eyes on the goodies, I spent copious amounts of time on their site last night and that was just looking at the SHOES. Sigh….so many sale items, so little time.
 

Shopbop has truck loads of DVF on sale, and this teal clutch with her signature lips is a perfect item to grab before its gone. DVF Snakeskin Clutch 

If you know of any other online retailer that is currently holding a super sale please let me know :)

Jump Jump

See that jumper up there? I tried it on last week at BCBG and ever since I have been day dreaming of hanging it in my closet (and then wearing it of course)...sigh. My love for this silk 'onseie' does not only extend to the BCBG variety, but to every single jumper I have laid eyes on this spring. I have come to the realization that I am crushing BIG TIME on jumpsuits!

Back in the day when I would see a jumpsuit on the rack or on someone I would cringe. Sadly jumpsuits, jumpers, rompers, whatever you want to call them were not always a thing of beauty. But they have come along way.  

Now they are a versatile look that makes you look pulled together - pun intended - and bonus points for being so damn easy to throw on and eliminating the need to choose a top AND a bottom ugh, lazy people unite! I used to be afraid of one piece outfits because frankly if you choose one that is not ‘right’ for you they can make even the hottest bod look disproportionate  IE. if you have a boy shaped body like moi you do NOT want to attempt a jumper with an elastic band waist. Instead you should try on something a tad loose that can be cinched with a belt to create the illusion of a waist line. PS this is my slimming trick for dresses as well. Throw a potato sack on me with a wide belt and I am happy.

So what should you look for in a good jumper? Listen up, I will give you my two cents.  

1. Quality material: this will help eliminate the ‘cheapo’ factor, let’s face it, a jumper is not the most glamorous sartorial choice. But one in a nice fabric, say ummm, SILK, can really look classy. P.S, when looking for silk I usually (always) turn to BCBG.

 2. Figure flattering cut: my first jumper was a spaghetti strap short combo that had the dreaded as mentioned above elastic bang around the waist. It was horrid. I purchased it from Urban Outfitters and paid a pretty penny but hardly wore it because it did absolutely nothing for my figure. It sagged in the front and rode up my butt, just disastrous. My brother even made a snide comment I will never forget he asked “what the F are you wearing?” Please don’t put yourself in this position, find a jumper that is flattering and rock it with pride! 

3. Season appropriate: There is a time and a place for everything right? While a jumper with pants can be worn in any season really, it doesn't really work when you throw tights under a jumper with shorts and attempt to wear during the winter months. Its just not "right". 

So with those 3 simple rules in place I believe it should be easy to locate an awesome jumper to add to your summer wardrobe this year. Just in case you're still not sure what to look for her is a run down of several types that you can try on based on your jumper comfort factor. 

1. Jumpers for Beginners

If you’re just starting out I recommend not jumping (heehee) straight into a pants jumpsuit. Try out a simple flirty version with shorts and halter that doesn't attract so much attention. It can be easily worn during the summer months with flat sandals, high sandals, wedges, anything your heart desires. Even flip flops pool side. It’s a good way to get your feet wet (heehee I did it again) with this trend. The floral number pictured above is a great example of this. Parker Atlas Jumper from Shopbop

2.The Formal Jumpsuit

Believe me when I say it’s easy to pull off something like this. The cut is figure flattering and the color isn’t too bold, there is no crazy print going on or embellishments, it’s a simple navy with a belted waist that will look good on anyone. If I were a jumper virgin I would be inclined to try something like this, it’s a perfect example of how they can very well be classy. Not all jumpers equal pool party you know. Navy Peplum Jumpsuit from BCBG and Raspberry Jumpsuits from Zara

3. The Risk Taker

OK, a pantsuit in a vibrant pattern is not the most versatile wardrobe addition I will admit that. With a suit you can always separate the pieces but with a jumper you cannot, so yes I acknowledge its a bit more risky. So if you're feeling gutsy try something like the short+blouse combo below, or for full our crazy the lil DVF number with the orange, yellow and blue pattern is sure to turn heads. Printed Jumpsuit Ted Baker London and Silk Jumpsuit from DVF. Personally my fav of all the jumpsuits I posted here is the DVF version. Guaranteed nobody else will be wearing the same outfit as you if you stepped out in this little get-up. 

The Round Up: May 31, 2013

Happy Friday everyone! The first day of summer is officially only 3 weeks away. While I already got my bronzed skin from my trip to the Dominican Republic (sorry, I just had to bring that up) this is the time of year us Canadians flee from our igloo's and try to absorb as much of that hot humid summer weather as we can. 

Not surprisingly this can destroy your skin, hair and nails. (Yes your nails can suffer from sun damage as well.)

So to prepare us for summer the next three week's round ups will reveal my top summer skin, hair and nail savers.  All products are available at Sephora

This week we are talking skin....

1. SPF 30: I'm starting off with SPF because I am a firm supporter of protecting your skin. I have suffered some brutal sun burns as a silly teenager, but in past years I have taken extreme precautions to keep my skin protected when I'm out in the sun. No more messing around, sun spots and damage are irreversible and don't make me bring up the C word!!

With that said, meet my all time favorite facial moisturizer, Clinique meet reader, reader meet Clinique. This baby is a BB cream with SPF 30 (also comes in an SPF 40 which I wear). The reason why I am obsessed is because its also tinted, it comes in three shades and TRUST me this tinted cream is not like the others you have tried. It goes on perfectly smooth and even, even a dummy like me can apply it successfully without streaks. Clinique Age Defense BB Broad Spectrum SPF 30

P.S I have been wearing this formula (sans BB obvs since BB is a new phenom) for 7 years after discovering it in Boots in the UK, so this is not a fad or a new product I am just trying out. 

2. Bronzing Powder: If you think bronzer is redundant during the summer then clearly you didn't read #1 - SPF! If you're lathering up on sun block like you should be you will still need a good bronzing powder even in the summer months. THIS ONE from Guerlain is my all time favorite. 

My Roomie from law school swears by this stuff. And although its a bit pricey she got me hooked. It really is the BEST bronzer out there. Guerlain Terracotta Bronzer

3. Detox Mask: I don't know what your summer routine includes, but mine is spent outside, hiking, walking, swimming with my dogs. If you're active in the summer you will know that sweaty gross feeling you get after a day in the heat and humidity. If you tend to not wash your face right away or you just need something extra to feel rejuvenated then I think a clarifying mask would be perfect for you. 

Boscia Clarifying Detox Mask  is my all time favorite facial mask. It is a deep cleansing clay mask that truly leaves your face feeling fresh and purged of whatever gross gunk was on it before. 

I hope everyone enjoys the sunny weather this weekend, and since temperatures are soaring here in Toronto I need to just mention that now is the time of year when our pets can suffer greatly if left unattended in the heat without water and care. Please, PLEASE do not leave your dog in an untended car, even for 5 minuets, it can be fatal. Thanks for listening :) 

our Dal's Pepper + Sparrow enjoying a run on the beach in Toronto

To Buy Or Not To Buy

I am back, virtually and literally to the blogging world after my second hiatus in less than two months due to vacation. Sorry I am not sorry I took way too many vacations thus far this year. Actually I am sorry, because now I am depressed and forced to face reality for an extended period of time.

What better way to cure my evident lack of enthusiasm for anything real-world related then shoe shopping? I’ll answer that, there is NO better way! Get your shit together ok.

Shoe shopping is better done of course when the SUPER SALES are on, and oh, looky what we have here, the Net a Porter super summer sale!

As advertised on my facebook page yesterday (are you following my page? If not what are you waiting for? Follow my page here ) they started the sale at 50% off and after my extensive research this morning I have concluded there are still many sizes left in so many amazing styles.

It is very easy to lose control in situations such as these, and I have been involved in several super sale impulse purchases in my time. My main concern is buying before they run out of my size, never do thoughts such as  “Do you really need a second pair of patent orange pumps” run through my mind.

See where I’m going with this? If the shoe fits and is cheap does that mean you should have it shipped to you express delivery? Sometimes we are blinded by the sale, and I am currently in this predicament.

For a while I had my heart set on picking up a pair of Miu Miu jeweled flat sandals. I even anticipated the pending sale and hoped for a price point below $400 so that I could indulge in a pair. (Their original price point was $700 let’s get serious that’s just ludicrous) Now the day has come and I am experiencing heart palpitations, mainly because I have noticed another much cheaper retailer also has a cute pair of jeweled flat sandals, coming in at $99.

So take a look below, I will let you decide for yourself do I buy or not buy? 

1. Miu Miu sandals: currently "on sale" via Net-a-Porter. 

Simple, yet totally blinged out, something about these babies gets me excited. Not your everyday sandal (I wouldn't walk the dogs in these) but rather something I would picture myself wearing to a nice dinner, a back yard party, or work on casual Friday with a fun dress. The question is, are they worth it? 

2. Zara sandals: currently not even one sale, this is just the regular amazing price - $99.00 

These are cute right? They sure aren't Miu Miu but they do represent bling factor. If anything I am leaning towards these now because of the fact that they are beige leather not yellow like the Miu Miu's. 

So what are your thoughts? To buy or not to buy? 

SPF Required

Jut so you know, I am leaving for somewhere very warm and sunny in 7 days from now. I am looking forward to one week of swimming in the ocean, lounging pool side (swim up bar!) but more importantly, bestie's WEDDING! 

More on that later, I promise I will post a destination wedding fashion guide before I depart :) 

Today we are talking about what to pack for a week lounging pool side, while you sip sugary drinks and pose for hundreds of pictures with your friends. You want to look your best don't you? 

My favorite part of any beach outfit are the accessories, not because I am uncomfortable in a bikini but because its me, duh, I am an accessory hoarder! Usually I spot a cute bikini and wonder what cover-up would match it, which sandals would compliment it, and I am constantly debating weather or not I should adopt the beach jewelry thing accessory?? On that note: I believe there is a time and a place for beach jewelry and over accessorizing. Are you playing beach volleyball at a lake? Or on a banana boat ride in Cancun? If you answered yes to the above then NO, the answer is no, you shall not wear beach jewelry. 

Below you will find one perfect example of when its OK to wear some jewels poolside, check it out for yourself along with two other beachy outfits. 

1. I call this my Monaco look, because well, if I were to visit Monaco during the summer this is what I would wear on my private Yacht. Jay Z would dock beside me and B would totally be into my stunning silk Etro kaftan. Let me break this look down for you, the bikini is Versace, and I believe there are rules to abide by when you're wearing Versace. Mainly, you cant possibly pair this bikini with anything less then a spectacular cover-up, and a frikin hand bag that I will be dreaming about for months now, sigh. Lastly, do i really need to mention that nobody in their right mind would wear flip flops with this outfit! Valentino studded sandals are much more appropriate. 

super cute straw hat, stunning silk Etro kaftan, silver and quartz wrap bracelets, Valentino stud sandals,YSL polish, Versace bikini,canvas and bamboo box tote, watersnake trim sunnies

 

2. This next outfit is perfect for any vaca down south. The bikini is swim friendly, its not just one of those fancy ones you cant get wet. A SWIM SUIT that cant get wet....I never got that.  I love Marc by Marc nylon bags because you can stuff them with anything, throw it around, fold it up when you don't need it any more, and finally wash it after a week of abuse on vacation. 

Rayban Wayfarer , crochet tank, Steve Madden studded gladiators,nylon tote, Julep nail polish ,printed bikini

 

3. Are you planning on spending a weekend at a cottage on a lake this summer? You do know that packing your most expensive clothing would be a very foolish move, instead I recommend picking up some cheapy bikini's and outfits, cause of course you still want to look cute while roasting marshmallows. These swim suits are under $30 and those sunnies are under $10. Can you say perfect cottage/glamping gear? Yes that's right, I used the word "glam-ping". 

knotted floral head wrap, sunnies, Zara bikini, Zara studded sandals, Straw beach bag, heart print one-piece, joe fresh eyelet cover-up, Sephora nail polish

How To DRESS For Summer

Today, in things I do not own but like to pretend I do, here are some collages I put together using the summer collection from our friends over at BCBG.

BCBG, also known as the store I can’t walk out of without at least two items and wish I could do a mid-night raid and leave with garbage bags full of silky, colourful garments…sigh.

In anticipation of summer I have conjured up three perfect summer outfits. The first would be ideal for a fun day time outing, perhaps a day spent shopping at an outdoor mall, or a lunch date with your girlfriends. The next would be great for a date night, or girls night out to a bar or trendy restaurant. The last outfit would be a great wedding outfit, or something easy and a little fancier to pack for a vacation somewhere special with your man.

P.S…BCBG never lets me down when it comes to their dresses, every week they have new styles and they are always irresistible, hence why all three outfits are based around a dress from their current collection. 

1. How easy would it be to pull off this look? A short dress like this one in a light pallet can be so versatile. You can wear it as is, or throw a white blazer on top for evening and to dress it up, you can even wear it to work on casual Friday.  This one even have a built in necklace detail, so you don’t have to even bother throwing jewellery on, it’s a lazy (or always late and on the run) girl’s best friend.  But of course, I wouldn't actually leave the house without SOME form of accessory, so a simple wrap bracelet with gold detail at the very least can add to this outfit.  FYI you don’t need to break the bank at BCBG to find a dress like this, Forever 21, Express, Aritzia all carry cute elastic waist dresses like this one. 

1.Jane Sleeveless Dress 2. Stud Turnlock Bracelet   3. White Satchel  4. Sandal

2. Ahh those wedges! I would never wear them because they are undoubtedly way too high for me, but I saw them in person and they are really a hell of a shoe, just gorgeous! I built this outfit around the shoes the cute c-thru clutch, and orange Joe nail polish. Yes, I am aware there are several different colours, patterns and textures, and that’s what I love about this one.  

1.  Aida Shift Dress 2.  Mini Harlow Envelope Wristlet 3. Pyramid Cuff 4. Cutout Wooden Wedge Sandal

3. Again here I tried to FIND a dress that would go well with this stunning necklace. I need this piece of jewellery in my life, and I also need somewhere to wear it, perhaps to a wedding I am attending this June. A simple neckline with not much going on is the perfect match for such a major necklace.  I chose hot pink lipstick because I find it really compliments a big gold necklace, red and orange lipstick would compete with the gold a bit too much, but pink creates a nice contrast. 

1. Strapless Draped Wrap Dress 2.  Lizard And Straw Clutch 3. Heeled Sandal 4. Stone Floral Necklace

Summer Must-have: Espadrilles

I'm going out on a limb here and saying that the first thing we must-have for us to enjoy our summer fashion is...well, summer itself to show its face! Im not a meteorologist but I'm pretty sure this isn't summery weather we are experiencing. 

Nonetheless, since returning from my trip I have been wearing a new pair of flat espadrilles non stop. They are gold with beige stitching and come from Winners, which means they were amazingly affordable (they were also a gift from my mom, awww) but mainly they are easily the most comfortable shoes I own. I really wish I had them two weeks ago when I was doing all that walking in Italy.

My new love for these lil espadrilles lead me on an internet search for more of its kind. When you type "Espadrill..." into Google "Espadrilles Chanel" is the number one search. No kidding, last summer the Chanel espadrille was wildly popular, even with its crazy price tag. 

So I went on a hunt for other, just as cute designer espadrilles. So, without further adieu, here they are. P.S  from net-a-porter & shopbop. 

From top left, clockwise: Valentino, Louboutin, Tory Burch, Stella, Mar by Marc, Marais. Ferragamo

I should mention that I also found THIS pair, totally affordable and just as cute