Petite Adventures: 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.