Crisp Fall

Shirt - Talula; Jeans - H&M; Booties - Aldo

The crisp fall weather we've been having of late has made me yearning to wear plaid; and apparently I'm not the only one feeling that way - two girls at school were sporting this cute and comfy style.

This past weekend was my first of two spent at school taking Graphic Design classes; I don't know how, but I survived. Although the classes were fantastic, I'm now convinced more than ever that alarm clocks on a Sunday should be illegal. It was tough getting up, especially since the mornings were extra chilly, but the classes were worth it, and the cozy plaid definitely helped.



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Feeling Blue

Shirt - Wilfred; Pants - Talula; Shoes - Aldo;

A business casual look from last week. Don't be swayed by the title, I wasn't actually feeling blue, I just wanted to share my obsession with cobalt with the world (and my officemates). I've been in love with cobalt since I first saw it walk down the runway and I can't tell you how excited I am that it's sticking around for fall!

Cobalt is definitely my favourite trend; now and then.

What's your favourite trend for fall?

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Mixing Prints

When mixing prints was first introduced as a trend, I wasn't quick to jump off the deep end. Even when I did decided to give the trend a try, I barely dipped my toe into the shallow end of the pool (as seen here and here).

Over the weekend, I went on a Pinterest pinning spree and after I realized that I had pinned some variation of this outfit four times, I decided it was time to jump off the deep end and give mixing prints a real college try!

Top - Jacob; Skirt - Zara; Tights - Zellers; Wedges - Aldo

It's definitely not as scary a trend as I once thought. One I'll have to try again very soon.




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Bad Luck

Cardigan - Zara; Tanks - Smart Set & American Apparel; Skirt - Jacob
Tights - Zellers; Boots - Aldo

Last week was not my week.

It all started on Sunday, when a random red light I've never seen before lit up on my Tassimo coffee machine. I'd already made my morning coffee so I choice to ignore it and focus on more important things, like getting ready for Harvest Noir.

Monday morning the ominous red light was still on; the water tank was full, so after pushing the button a few times hoping it would cure itself, I was out of ideas. Frantically, I turned to Google and that's when my world came shattering down around me - my Tassimo needed to be descaled. I had no clue what that meant.

Over the next few days I tried everything: lemon juice and water, filtered water; nothing was working. Giving up on natural remedies, I even went on the hunt for descaler, literally running across town to locate this product that I'm now convinced doesn't exist. That's when I turned to a radical google-suggested solution: Orange Kool-aid.  Surprisingly, it worked like a charm. Tassimo was on the mend, life was good again.

Or so I thought.

I turned a blind eye on the coffee machine for two minutes and that's when it decided to flood my kitchen, sending two juice glasses sliding off the counter and smashing onto the floor.

So, there I was, picking up glass and moping in my PJs at midnight. Not too fun or fashionable.

To cheer myself up the next morning, and celebrate the return of my morning cup of coffee, I pulled together a look to make it appear that the horrors of the week hadn't happened. The tights may have been a bad idea on such a warm fall day, but I had my morning cup of coffee; nothing could phase me.


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Thanksgiving Day Off

Dress & Denim Jacket - Old Navy, Tank - Smart Set; Flats - Aldo

Today is a holiday in Canada affectionately known as Turkey Day! And, while I'm not eating turkey (or even tofurkey) I'm taking full advantage of the day-off by lounging in my chicest sweatpants and curling up with one of the many library books I have in my possession. It's fantastic.

Today is also my last day of freedom before 18 action-packed days of work and Graphic Design classes. While I'm so excited to take the classes, I'm a little bit sad to be losing two consecutive weekends. But, I know if the end it will all be worth it; at least the nap I'll take on Saturday, October 27th, will be worth it.

In honour of the holiday weekend, I decided that last Thursday would be casual Thursday (also, after trapsing around town in heels on Wednesday night, I just really wanted to wear flats), so I decided it was the perfect day to debut my impulsely purchased Old Navy wrap dress. 

Bought just under the wire (before my October shopping ban kicked in) I was completely drawn to the colour and style of this dress; plus, it matched perfectly with my ikat flats, so I took it as a sign that it was totally meant to be mine.

Comfortable, and casual; exactly what I like from my clothes.
And from my Thanksgiving Day off.

Hope you're having a fantastic (Canadian) Turkey Day!


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Style Profile: Twenty York Street

Name: ML or Marilou Moles to friends   =)

Age: Awww, you know people are still trying to guess that!

Occupation: Policy Analyst/Professional Writer/Yoga Teacher/Fitness Instructor/PR Strategist by day. Aspiring Fashion Blogger by night.

Site: www.twentyyork.com

Location: Ottawa/Canada/International

When and why did you start your site? 

Late-2010. It was a turning point for me personally and professionally. I knew blogs existed and flourished quite well but it wasn’t until one of my great friends, Natalie of www.nataliedoes42k.com, introduced me to some of the ones she’s been stalking that I had an eureka moment: "This is can be my world."

How would you describe your site? 

It’s almost an accurate reflection of my personality. It’s a beautiful and interesting collection of fashion, lifestyle, arts, culture and the hottest, most notable events in and around town. Sometimes, when my followers are lucky, they get to meet the most remarkable individuals I feature and when they get especially lucky, they get to have a glimpse into my most intimate reflections.

Where do you get your inspiration? 

I love LOVE fashion magazines. As cheesy as it sounds, I find inspiration everywhere – for work and creativity. For fashion and style, I tend to go for fast and convenient – I love street style! I’m quite unashamed to run after someone and say, "I love your entire outfit, please tell me where everything is from!" Saves me a google search and that’s always a nice thing!

Oh, and who can forget fashion blogs? They are the best and the most up-to-date source of information for style and fashion.

Who are your style/beauty icons? 

There are so many beautiful women everywhere. But beauty without substance is empty and fleeting. I love powerful men and women, those who stand for something – passionate people are beautiful and sexy.

Describe your personal style. 

Love Bohemian and Rock ‘n Roll style but as much as I try to channel these genres, I just can’t seem to pull it off. I have to stick with what I know and what I think flatters my figure. I’m more of a classic, clean and elegant dresser.

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

Confidence (whether it comes natural or you have to fake-it-til-you-make-it type of confidence), and smile are the world’s two most absolute no-fail [pieces of advice].

Where are your favourite places to shop? 

I think Banana Republic (BR) should really be sending me commission cheques by now. I shop there for my everyday outfits, special occasion outfits, and gifts for family and friends. Beyond their amazing collection and good quality garments, BR is very convenient for me. So is GAP and Old Navy. (Alright, I have to admit that I love designer brands too. Guilty, much?)

What are your favourite trends for this season? 

Surprisingly, I am loving leather this season. Currently in the hunt for a reasonable leather moto jacket or a classic cut sheath that I can pair with my strappiest gold heels.

Style/Beauty Pet Peeve? 

I just cannot – for the life of me – stand Crocs. I may get a lot of flack for this but I’m sorry, unless you’re planning to harvest your own crops this time of the year, just please put your Crocs back in the box and go ask for your money back.

What do you never leave home without? 

I honestly panic when I reach into my purse and I can’t find my THANN Rice Extract Lip Balm. I swear, it’s a life changer.

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

A classic trench coat; a stunning little black dress; a pair of comfortable (settle for semi-comfortable if you really have to) and swoon-worthy high heels; striped tees – black and white – they goes with everything, I promise; and, the flirtiest, blackest mascara.

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

I was very ambitious when I started and I had lofty goals. I was determined to blog everyday or at least very regularly and I did that – and perhaps that is one of the reasons why Twenty York Street became successful (quoting me on that one) but then with that sort of success and recognition come so many opportunities that pull you away from blogging. So now, I endeavor to blog at least 3 times a week with the same lofty goal and ambition of making it bigger and better.

In five years time, I want to own something. I want to own my own company that is ideally, it would be an extension of Twenty York Street.

All images courtesy of Twenty York Street.

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Harvest Noir

This past Sunday, I had the privilege of being my friend's plus-one at Ottawa's secret, chic picnic, Harvest Noir. Only hours after learning the location (you receive an email at noon and are to arrive promptly at four), 1,500 people of all ages gathered on the front lawns of City Hall in their most stylish black apparel, to toast the harvest, and in our case, wine and dine in the rain. 

In only it's second year, Harvest Noir has not only doubled in size, but it has quickly become one of the most sought after social tickets of the season. The evening is comprised of three acts, each unique and breathtaking.

ACT I: The Secret Picnic
Elegantly-dressed diners head to the secret destination toting picnic baskets stuffed with locally-harvested food they've prepared, set up a feast at their assigned tables, and celebrate the harvest with friends and family. Guests will enjoy the dining experience of the year, accompanied by glasses of fine local bubbly, wine and beer, and refined live music by a 13-piece orchestra. (Official event description, sourced from HarvestNoir.com)



Despite the fashionably late rain, which arrived ten minutes after the picnic started, it was a fabulous evening, if not for the people-watching alone. With men in tuxedos with tails and top hats, and ladies in hooped skirts and fascinators, and even a gorilla suit, Harvest Noir was like dining at Downton Abbey, if only the Dowager enforced a strict black-only, steampunk-inspired dress code.

Our table decor

The lighting of the burner - a true team effort to ensure we had a hot meal

ACT II: The Pop-Up Parade
After cleaning up our table, we were given sparklers and followed a marching band from City Hall, through Confederation Park to the N.A.C. 

Throughout the parade I happened to walk behind a girl wearing the most fabulous wings. 
So, naturally, I had to take a picture. Creepy, I know, but how could I not!?

ACT III: The DJ DanceParty

Once we arrived at the N.A.C. the party really began. With three different dancefloor, each table had been assigned to a room. Ours was the Classic Room, so we danced and sang the night away to oldies tunes - everything from Mungo Jerry to 80s rap. I loved it all!

The only time we weren't on the dancefloor was to watch the fashion show and marvel at the hula hoop artists who'd taken over the foyer. 

One of the highlights of Act III was when a choir started to sing "We are Young" by Fun. and everyone in the N.A.C sang along. You really can't beat the sound of 1,000+ voices singing together.



What I Wore

As soon as I was invited to Harvest Noir, I knew exactly what I was going to wear: the strapless, bubble dress I'd worn to my University graduation. It's been sitting in my closet ever since just begging to be worn. So Harvest Noir was the night.

In keeping with the Harvest theme, I thought it was only appropriate to wear gold leaf accessories (the bartender was thoroughly impressed by my dedication to the harvest).

My original lookDress - Jacob; Tights - Zellers;
Boots, Necklace, Earrings, Clutch - Aldo; Watch - Fossil

For an outdoor evening event, where rain was expected, I knew that a cashmere cardigan was a must - plus, the pearls made it feel very Harvest Noir appropriate.

Cardigan - Joe Fresh

And finally, to top off my look, the chicest of all rain apparel: a trench coat and umbrella.

Trench - H&M

My Harvest Noir date, Alayne, and I - before the rains started.

Thankfully we took photos before the rain *really* started, because before long I looked like this (Alayne, on the other hand managed to look stunning, as always):

  

Half-way through the picnic and still smiling, after at least two hours in the rain.

Even though we were soaked, Harvest Noir was a fantastic night. So much so that we've already decided we can't miss 2013; rain or shine.


All photos in this post are my own. For official event photos check out Jake Wright - they're amazing!

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Coveting: La Canadienne

Like all good Canadian girls, as soon as the first leaf start to change colour I start looking for a pair of boots - it's in our genes, I tell ya! And, this year I've decided to shop locally, because who knows winter better than Canadians?! So, when I was introduced to Montreal-based line La Canadienne, I was over the moon.

More than just winter boots, La Canadienne is a brand that offers both fashion and function with a wide range of styles - everything from dressy to motorcycle to retro inspired - they have it all!

Here are a few of the looks I'm coveting:

The Marseille

The Über-Cool

If you haven't already done so, check out La Canadienne - I promise you won't be disappointed.

**This post was done in partnership with La Canadienne, but the opinions and image choices are my own

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Cross it Off

Blouse & Dress - Jacob; Tights - Zellers; Boots - Aldo
Necklace - Smart Set; Watch - Fossil
Giant Hair - my own

Hello lovelies, how was your weekend?

Mine was a great mix of productive, relaxing and fun. Saturday, I ran around cross in errands off my list - from cleaning the house to grocery shopping to repairing damaged clothing to buying myself a new jean jacket - if it was on the list, I crossed it off (is there anything more satisfying than cross things off a list?!). Sunday, I braved the elements and after starting the day at hot yoga, I was off to Harvest Noir. Although it flew by, it was a fantastic weekend.

I wore this look a couple of weeks ago on a very busy Wednesday. My day started with a meeting at a design company, where I approved a new poster design for work, and finished with an interview with Dress for Success (DFS). Because I was meeting with DFS I wanted a look that showed I was professional, yet fashion conscious. Plus, I was still in quite sick at this point, so I needed a look that would cover me up and keep me warm enough in my freezing cold office.

Once I threw on a cardigan, this look crossed everything off my sartorial wish list for the day.

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Petite Resolutions Recap: The Third Quarter

Alright sports fans, we're about to start the fourth quarter (holy crap, there are only three months left in 2012 - doesn't it feel like this year just started? Only me? Okay...) This seems like the perfect time to check in on my petite resolutions for 2012 (read the original post here, the first quarter recap here, and the half-way mark recap here).

1) Read More - goal: read at least one book each month; read before bed instead of TV

Quarter 3 recap: I kind of fell off the reading wagon in both July and September (I blame not reading in September on 1) traveling; 2) having the travel plague; and 3) trying to cope with regular life. I have no excuses for why I couldn't finish a book in July - in my defence I have read 20 books this year, so, basing it on math alone, I've totally already met this goal.) To get me back into the swing of things I have a big stack of books out from the library. Fall seems like the perfect time to make up for those two black marks on my record. 

2) Volunteer

Q3: In my efforts to become more involved in the community (and be less of a hermit) I've picked a couple of organizations to volunteer with throughout the year. And, although they both just re-started after the summer, they've been keeping me more than busy with meetings, interviews, countless back-and-forth emails and admin tasks (I really didn't ease myself into not being a hermit; right off the deep end I dove!) Even though it's been a shock to the system to be so busy, it's fantastic and I can't wait to get more involved as the year wears on. 

3) Write more

Q3: Over the summer, inspired after reading the Happiness Project (If you haven't read it, run, don't walk and get a copy; seriously - it's that good!) I sat myself down and really looked at my blog and thought long and hard about what I wanted to do with this space. So, I set myself a few goals that I'll work on over the next three months. I realize I'm being very vague, but let's just say - so far, so good!

4) Spend less - use the library, make lunches

Q3: Let's just say that when I'm in Canada, I'm great at this resolution; when I was in Europe, not so much. But, let's focus on the positives: since getting back I've been diligently making my lunches, and bringing breakfast to work (even coffee - I haven't set foot in a Tim Horton's or Starbucks in the last 10 days). And, I love the library - its equidistance between work and home - so it's easy to stick with that one.

5) save 10% of each pay cheque

Q3: This happens automatically, so... no skin off my back.

6) Pay off Visa Card

Q3: This goal haunts me. I get so close to making my dream of having a zero balance a reality and then I have to pay for something like graphic design classes, or perogies and beer in Poland. One day I'll get there... one day...

7) Pay off student debt

Q3: Slowly... chipping... away... However, just the other day I was reading an article about the Obamas and Michelle said that it took them until 2004 to pay off their student loans. I've paid off half in four years, so I'd say I'm doing pretty good. Yes, I realize that the Obamas are both graduates of Ivy League universities and Law School, but whatevs, I take my inspiration where I can get it.

8) Drink more water

9) Eat more fruits, vegetables & berries

10) Eat less pasta, dairy

Q3: I'm good at 2/3 of this set - so, no too shabby, but room for improvement.

11) Go to the gym 3 times a week

Q3: Not to toot my own horn, but I have been killing this goal of late. After my trip (where I walked a ton so technically I wasn't slacking while I was away) I took a week off to try and cure my travel plague. When I realized this nasty bug was slowly getting better (and I wasn't going to terrify other gym goers with my cough) I jumped back into the gym as fast as I could. So far I've stuck with my routine and am averaging 4 workouts a week; however, none of those workouts has come in the morning, which was one of my fall goals. I guess some people just aren't meant to be at the gym at 6 a.m.

12) be patient, breathe

13) Stop being so lazy

14) Stop being scared - of failure, of standing out

15) don't think, DO!

Q3: Compared to the rest of the year, I feel like I've been doing a much better job at practicing these four resolutions of late. I've definitely been more confident and less scared, and much less lazy - all-in-all, I like the direction I'm going in as we head into the fourth quarter.

16) go to Europe, see Paris, Stockholm

Q3: Done and done! While I didn't see Paris (there's always next year), I did spend almost a week exploring Stockholm, and in total spent three weeks in Europe. It was amazing; an adventure for the record books (read about it here). The only downside from my little sojourn across the pond is that I now have a severe case of the travel bug and am eager to get back out there as soon as I can. Plans for 2013 are well underway!

As we head into the last three months of the year - how are you doing on your resolutions? Have you set new goals for fall?

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Style Profile: Dainty Girl

Name: Nicole Wilson aka Dainty Girl

Age: 28

Occupation: Blogger (Marketing Manager by day)

Site: http://DaintyGirl.ca

Location: Toronto, ON

When and why did you start your site?

I’ve always loved fashion, beauty and style and I think I’ve got a pretty solid written “voice” so I made it my 2012 New Years Resolution to launch a blog. On January 28^th 2012, Dainty Girl was born and I haven’t looked back since! I’m honestly amazed at how far it’s come.

How would you describe your site?

 It’s a fashion, beauty and style blog with a “dainty” twist! I’m passionate about all things local and take pride in sharing and supporting local designers, artists and entrepreneurs on my blog. There’s so much creativity, innovation and passion on the Toronto (and Canadian) fashion scene and I want to share that with the world.

Where do you get your inspiration?

 I’m incredibly inspired by the fashion and beauty entrepreneurs that I’m lucky enough to meet on a weekly basis. They have fierce and unwavering passion for their craft so it’s easy to fall for them and the goodies they’re selling with such heart. They make me feel like anything’s possible.

Who are your style/beauty icons?

 Michelle Williams is such a dainty darling. I love everything she wears and her flawless natural beauty. Emily Blunt and Amy Adams always look perfectly flawless on the red carpet; I love their elegant sophistication. I adore Nicole Richie and her effortless bohemian-chic style and fun statement jewellery.

Describe your personal style. 

Well I am Dainty Girl! I think have pretty diverse fashion tastes; I have equal love for shapely and structured glam styles and loose, flowing bohemian styles. I love juxtaposing feminine with edge - lace and leather, sparkle and studs. Everything has an element of dainty and I’m always a sucker for a pretty dress and heels!

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

 Don’t overdo it when it comes to fashion or beauty. Try one or two trends, not all of them; less is more when it comes to makeup, tanning and exposed skin. Drink lots of water!

Where are your favourite places to shop?

Local boutiques supporting Canadian fashion, like Fresh Collective and Homegrown Boutique in Toronto. Zara, M for Mendocino, Joe Fresh, H&M and ModCloth are always dependable for a great fashion find and affordable accessories. Sephora is my beauty mecca.

What are your favourite trends for this season?

 I absolutely love the burgundy trend. It’s flattering on every skin tone but I love the way it contrasts my fair skin and brings out the red in my hair. Also loving the leather accent trend; it’s so naughty versus nice and I’m hoping to find a detachable leather collar and a coat with leather contrast sleeves this season.

Style/Beauty Pet Peeve?

 Too much skin – porno cleavage and super short skirts never look classy. Heels with wide leg pants that just aren’t long enough. Tube tops with chest/back skin spillage. On the beauty front, hands down it’s overly tan skin or too much bronzer – we’re in Toronto, not California ladies!

What do you never leave home without? 

Lip balm or lip gloss – hate dry lips! My cell phone; gotta stay connected to my social networks! Business cards – never know who you’re going to meet!

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

1.    The perfect Little Black Dress (LBD)

2.    Blazer than can be dressed up or down

3.    Skinny Jeans that make your butt look awesome

4.    Comfortable heels (platforms baby)

5.    Statement Accessory – bold jewellery or a vibrant handbag

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

I want to be synonymous with Toronto fashion – a trusted advisor for shoppers and a trendsetter for the stylish. I want to bring together local designers and entrepreneurs for exciting collaborations and events. I want someone to ask for my autograph ;)

What's on your nightstand?

 A tall glass of water (always), Canadian-made SheeBody hand cream, USB keys full of media photos, DaLish lip balm (that I made myself), business cards collected at recent events and nerdy (yet awesome) reading glasses.

All images courtesy of Dainty Girl.

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