Style Profile: I Love Denham

Name: Alana Denham Albrecht

Age: 27

Occupation: Assistant Manager at a fitness studio

Site: http://ilovedenham.com

Location: Kelowna, BC

When and why did you start your site? 
I've been devouring fashion blogs for awhile, and had always had a passion for fashion, but at the time I was in University studying science...quite the opposite of my passion!  I really wanted to do something in the fashion arena, and I was lacking an outlet where I could express myself. My husband, Rhys provided so much encouragement in the beginning and helped me build my site as well as taking pictures of me every day. Now he acts as my business manager, and its been fun to work together.

How would you describe your site? 
My site is my personal style blog dedicated to showcasing creative fashion and style. I love posting on trends, personal style and beauty while show casing beautiful high quality photography. My husband is a photographer, and we love coming up with photo shoot ideas to show case on the blog. Rhys also does a lot of the backend work on the site, and it really is a collaboration between us.

Where do you get your inspiration?
I get my inspiration from everything and anything; TV, magazines, people walking down the street, friends, movies, I'm always on the look out for beautiful and interesting things.

Who are your style/beauty icons?
I've been asked this question numerous times, and I never know quite how to answer it. I've never been one to have a defined style, so I usually find myself pulling inspiration from many many women. Of course there are the obvious influences from women like Bridget Bardot, with her winged eyeliner and her signiture coif, Audrey Hepburn for her grace and elegence, and Marilyn Munro for her sex appeal, but I also love girls like Beyonce (the way that girl wears shorts is beyond), Eva Mendes (I can't get enough of her bombshell look), and Jessica Simpson who, yes, at times looks like she just threw on whatever was within arms reach...but you know what? Sometimes I roll out of the house with uggs boots and a huge hoodie on too. I'm just glad I don't get photographed in it. 

Describe your personal style.

Another tricky question for me...you'd think I'd have a prepared answer by now! I think I'm best described as Trendy Meets Girly. I never want to look too girly or classic, so I end up throwing on something unexpected.

What was the best style/beauty advice you were given? 

To take care of my skin! I have very dry fair skin, so the future is not looking so hot for me. Knowing your skin type and the products that work for you is huge. My mom started gifting me with luxurious skin care products, and once I saw how much better my skin was with the right products, I was hooked.  I'll invest in skin care over a lot of other things because I'm a big believer that if your skin and hair look healthy, you'll look beautiful no matter what clothes you're wearing.

Where are your favourite places to shop? I live four hours from the nearest large city centre, so I've become very creative when it comes to shopping.  Essentially, I'll shop anywhere. I always have very specific items I'm looking for, so if the items on my list can be found at Superstore or Urban Planet, then that's just great! I have a few local boutiques that I just adore, and when I do end up going to the city, I head straight to Zara and H&M.

What are your favourite trends for this season?

Pastels, I can't wait to get my hands on some mint green! I love mixing colors, so I'm excited to start mixing pastels and neons and neutrals. I'm also loving patterned pants (definitely will be picking up a pair of leopard ones), and I can't wait to try the short suit. I'm also loving snakeskin, metallics, and sheer right now.

Style/Beauty Pet Peeve?
I've just realized that I hate it when girls wear too much bronzer. Putting it all over ones face is just not a good look. I like it for contouring and contrast, best done by applying it where the sun would actually hit your face. I'm sure that I've abused it in the past myself, but thank goodness I've been learning to apply makeup better!

What do you never leave home without?

My iPad! I'm obsessed with that thing. I've walked out of my house forgetting my wallet more times than I can count, but I always seem to remember my iPad.

What are your five essential items that you think every woman should own?
A boyfriend blazer, patent pumps, silk blouse, statement jewelry, and an amazing leather motorcycle jacket!  Oh, I just realize I didn't mention pants...but those are obvious right?

Where do you see yourself and your site in five years?
Paris Fashion week! I'll be covering it for a major fashion publication.

Learn more about I Love Denham and follow her fantastic style at http://ilovedenham.com.

All images courtesy of I Love Denham.

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Purple and Plaid

Just a casual work outfit.

Okay, in truth, I was having hair troubles that morning and by the time I was able to tame the beast I needed to be leaving the house; so, I threw on whatever was within reach and would keep me warm throughout the day (and would allow me to wear tights that would conceal the ginormous bruise on my shin - courtesy of walking into the corner of my bed frame last week). So, I landed on this.

For an outfit that literally came together in seconds, I like it. The grey and the purple go well together, and it's nice show that my work wardrobe has range, aka: I don't always have to wear black!

Sweater - Joe Fresh; Skirt - Jacob; Boots - Aldo

This was also the day that I realized I was in desperate need of a bang trim. I'm amazed I didn't throw my neck out whipping my hair around to keep it out of my eyes as I worked away.

I've been thinking about growing my bangs out lately. I like them, but they're just a lot of work (and I have a bit of a cowlick), so I need a trusted opinion - what do you think: Bangs yay or nay?

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Channel Your Inner Editor

Some days my work wear is inspired (like here and here) and then there are days like last Thursday, where form and function, and in this case comfort, trump all else.

Last Thursday was my first staff meeting as temporary Editor (extremely temporary, we're talking two to three weeks temporary, until the maternity leave replacement can start) of our association's newsletter. To say I was nervous to present as Editor was a bit of an understatement. No matter how prepared I am, I still get nervous when speaking in front of large groups. So, I put on my best Lisa Tant impression to get me through it.

I also decided to wear an outfit that made me feel extremely comfortable. Because the last thing you want when you feel nervous is to be uncomfortable.

Thankfully everything went well. Publicly shaming colleagues who've "forgotten" about the deadline is definitely not my forte - but I tried to make it as authoritatively funny as possible.

Sweater & Blouse - Zara; Tank - Smart Set; Trousers - Talula from Aritzia; Watch - Fossil

We're all still friends, so huge success!

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Green With Envy

I was inspired to buy these skinny cargo pants after seeing the way Olivia from StyleStruck styled a similar pair. Thankfully, I was able to find this pair on sale while browsing Joe Fresh over Christmas, and they seemed liked the perfect piece to showcase during this month's Everybody Everywear challenge.





Plus, they are one of the only things I own that's green...

Aside from these sunglasses, but it's kind of hard to tell that they're green in this light.

Blazer - Talula from Aritzia; T-shirt, Pants & Sunglasses - Joe Fresh; Heels - Aldo

I'm so excited to be able to wear shoes without socks and tights now that it's Spring. Yes, I am one of those people who declares it to be Spring after just one gorgeous day. Even though the temperatures were still hovering around zero this weekend, I couldn't help but think patio. 

Patio season is almost upon us, and I couldn't be more excited! I'm like a kid at Christmas.

What are you looking forward to this Spring?

p.s., I've survived my first week of being a vegetarian runner, read all about it here.

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Weekend Ways

Now that I'm an old lady my weekend routine has changed. No longer do I get up and watch cartoons, but I lounge in bed with coffee while catching up on the week's news (fashion news that is).

Once I'm all caught up, I like to clean my apartment - there's something so satisfying about having a clean home for the weekend. Plus, I'm like a mini-tornado throughout the week, so it has to be done. This weekend, after vacuuming and doing the dishes I decided to set myself up a new work station.

It used to be located in a small, dark corner of my living room right near the bedroom.

Before

But that locale didn't seems to inspire creativity. So, I shifted it across the room.

After

 Much better. 

Now, I'm able to gaze out the window when I'm stuck on a thought. Plus, being right next to the radiator, it's nice and cozy. I hope my new work locale will be inspiring.

The tools every fashion blogger needs - pens, pencils, to do list, thank you cards,
stiletto desk ornament (that doubles as a bottle opener)

It's working already!

I wish I looked this good while working

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Style Profile: Brilliant Sugar

Name: Candice MacLean

Age: 27

Occupation: Newspaper editor

Site: www.brilliantsugar.com

Location: Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

When and why did you start your site?

Like many others, I started my site because I was inspired by other bloggers. I have always loved photography, baking, cooking, outfits & documenting life in general. This seemed like a perfect way to keep it all in one place and I had thought of the name Brilliant Sugar. That year for my birthday, my (graphic designer) boyfriend bought me the domain www.brilliantsugar.com as a gift. I was set!

How would you describe your site?

It's a life and style blog where I share outfits, recipes and snapshots of simple moments of my life. It has elements that are similar to so many blogs out there, but I strive to make it unique in its own way. 

Where do you get your inspiration?

First and foremost - from the people in my life. In my group of friends I'm lucky enough to have other fashion bloggers, photographers, musicians, designers, crafters, painters ... I could go on. I'm inspired by people who are truly themselves and are genuine. When style comes from within I think it shows and stands out. I'm also hugely inspired by other fashion bloggers (who isn't?!) 

Who are your style/beauty icons?

I love the style of Olivia Palermo. I've always enjoyed Krystal of This Time Tomorrow but since she chopped her hair I can't get enough of her style. Her overall look is so killer, and I love her quirky details. A more recent favourite is Julia of Gal Meets Glam. 

Describe your personal style.

I believe in being classy and polished. I love embellishments and statement pieces and I adore playing outfits up with makeup - red lips & cat eyes being two of my favourites. 

What was the best style/beauty advice you were given?

I'm not sure if anyone specifically said this to me, but I think being a healthy person overall is key to style & beauty that makes an impact. Being happy, having fun, being positive and kind, taking care of your skin, nails, hair, and teeth adds something so much deeper and lasting to a stylish outfit.

Where are your favourite places to shop?

Local: Je Suis Prest, Envy, Silver Daisy Designs. Non-local: ASOS, Shopbop.

Style/Beauty Pet Peeve?

People that aren't genuine about what they do/wear. 

What are your five essential items that you think every woman should own?

Black skinny trousers (I'm still searching for the perfect pair !), a perfect button-up shirt, preferably in chambray, a statement necklace, perfect black pumps, and a colourful clutch (I love yellow!)

Where do you see yourself and your site in five years?

I see myself with J. and our cat Ambulance (they are my other halves!) and I see Brilliant Sugar growing & expanding as I continue to test recipes, learn more about my personal style & get to know other bloggers! There are so many creative bloggers in this little part of the world - I hope in five years I've met them all!

All images courtesy of Brilliant Sugar.

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Perfect for Walking Under Low Hanging Branches

The lovely ladies of Shoppalu featured yours truely on their site today. I highly encourage you to head on over and check it out (and maybe do a bit of vintage shopping while you're at it!).

"perfect for walking under low hanging branches" 


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From Frizzy to Fabulous

I am not someone who wakes up with perfect hair; hell, I'm not even someone who wakes up with semi-decent hair. Earlier this week I woke up with hair so bad it looked like a Joe Dirt inspired mullet. It was so hideous that I burst out laughing at the sight of myself, snapped a pic and emailed it to a friend, who in turn laughed hysterically - not the worst way to start a day mind you, but not the best.

That's why when Misikko offered to send me a new Hana 1.5" Titanium flat iron for review I jumped at the opportunity.





Here's my journey from frizzy to fabulous.


I decided to start with air dried hair because it's the most unmanageable - it can only be described as frizzy-puffy-wavy when it dries on its own - plus, it was a Saturday and I just didn't feel like using the blow dryer.

After parting and pinning I set to work on trying to flatten my unruly locks.

A quarter of the way through

Half done. Left side - unruly; right side - touchably smooth

The results

My hair felt amazing; so smooth - which doesn't normally happen when I don't blow dry it beforehand.  I couldn't stop touching it, and neither could my friends when I met up with them later that evening. Plus, it took no time at all - definitely less than when I normally iron my hair.

All-in-all, it's a keeper.

Made me want to whip my hair back and forth. So I did.

Full disclosure - Misikko provided me with the Hana 1.5 titanium flat iron for review however all opinions expressed are mine.  I have not been financially compensated by Misikko for this product review

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Spring and Sunglasses

The weather last week was schizophrenic to say the least. One day was absolutely gorgeous and had me dreaming of spring. The next, snow. And finally, the week ended with intense winds that swirled my hair into a divine nest.

This outfit was from earlier in the week, when I was dreaming of Spring trends and sunglasses.

Sweater - Zara; Halter & Skirt - Jacob; Boots - Aldo; Watch - Fossil; Sunglasses - Ray-Ban

After a long day of work, I rewarded myself by shopping with a friend; I was very thankful to see that this outfit daily transitioned from day to night with just the addition of skinnies.

Shopping only made my dreams of Spring trends and sunglasses more intense. I can't wait for warm weather and all that comes with it.

What are you dreaming of?

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Not Stupid, Just Lazy

At the ripe old age of 26, I would say I'm fairly healthy - I workout a couple of times a week, and pay attention to what I eat. But this wasn't always the case. Up until few months ago, I believed that my eight minute walk to work (in heels no less) was sufficient daily exercise, and pasta, cheese, or preferably both, was a staple of every meal. It's not that I was stupid, just lazy.

Then, spurred by an unexpected life event, I decided to make a change - if not then, when? I started working out and eating better, and even signed up for my first race (I'm the slowest runner in the history of the world, it might take me all day but I will finish that 5K!)


I even started to do research. Websites, magazine articles, books - you name it, I browsed it.

This weekend, I spent my time bundled up on my couch devouring the vegan-tome Skinny Bitch. While I knew a lot of the information they were sharing, there were a lot of horror stories that opened my eyes to what I was really putting in my body. And, it lead me to my challenge for the month of March. No, I won't be going vegan like the book suggests, but I will be giving up meat and most dairy (au revoir cheese, milk and eggs) for the next 27 days - and who knows, maybe longer.

Read all about my journey From Sloth to Sporty.

So, to all you fabulous vegans and vegetarians, do you have any recommendations for recipes for this newbie petite vegetarian?

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Style Profile: Coco and Vera

Name: Cee 

Age: A lady never tells ;)

Occupation: Call Centre Manager - Group Insurance Industry

   Site: http://cocoandvera.blogspot.com

   Location: Vancouver 

When and why did you start your site? 

I stumbled upon Chictopia a few years ago and quickly became addicted to taking photos of my outfits. I had always loved documenting my life in pictures - when I discovered there was a whole world full of people doing exactly that on their blogs, I knew I had to start my own.

How would you describe your site? 

Coco and Vera is my creative outlet; it's a place for me to share all of the things I'm passionate about, from fashion to food to books and travel... But mostly fashion!

Where do you get your inspiration? 

I used be obsessed with fashion magazines, buying the new issues as soon as they hit the shelves. But since I've started blogging, I get most of my inspiration from other bloggers - seeing clothes styled and worn by real women is so much more inspiring!

Who are your style/beauty icons? 

There are almost too many to name! My first fashion inspiration was Audrey Hepburn. Currently, I love Olivia Palermo, Clemence Poesy, Marion Cotillard and Leigh Lezark.

Describe your personal style.  

My style is classic, feminine and always Parisian-inspired. I listened to a lot of punk music as a teenager, so every once in a while that edgy, rock influece pops up in my outfits, too.

What was the best style/beauty advice you were given? 

Billy Baldwin said, "Be faithful to your own style because nothing you really like ever truly goes out of style." Those are words for every fashionista to live by.

Where are your favourite places to shop? 

I absolutely love Club Monaco - if I could only shop at one store, that would be it. I always find a lot of gems at Zara, Asos, Aritzia, J. Crew and Madewell.

What are your favourite trends for this season? 

This spring I'm covetting coloured skinny jeans  in every shade. Aqua, coral, mauve, yellow... My only problem is deciding what colour to buy first!

Style/Beauty Pet Peeve? 

Leggings as pants. There's just no excuse!

What do you never leave home without? 

My notebook. I'm always jotting down notes, making lists and, of course, working on my novel. You never know when inspiration will strike.

What are your five essential items that you think every woman should own? 

I think that the essentials differ slightly for everyone, but my wardrobe wouldn't be complete without a pair of black skinny trousers, pearl stud earrings, a classic turtleneck sweater, nude pumps and a good red lipstick.

Where do you see yourself and your site in five years? 

My five-year plan always involves living and working in Paris. In the next five years, I hope to make that a reality - blogging from my own apartment in the fashion capital of the world would be a dream come true.

All images courtesy of Coco and Vera

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