LUNCH MEMORIES AND SHADES OF GREY

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REAL WINTER STYLE FT. MY NEW HAT

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COOL AIR, DON'T CARE: HELLO WINTER

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Embracing Canadian Winter

My hands are quite icy while writing this post! Winter is in full swing and this is about the time I'd usually pull out my long list of complaints. I'm choosing not to be that person, at least if I can help it! Complaining is such a natural tendency when something isn't ideal but I'm trying to challenge my urges so I can have a more peaceful mind about it. I mean, I do live in Canada, it's about time I begin embracing all that it is - flaws and all. Maybe Winter isn't so bad. Yes it's cold, but there are worse things. 

Learning to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations is something I've been trying to hone lately. If we know that what we focus on grows, why do we sometimes tend to focus on only the bad? Or cold, in my instance. When I'm in an uncomfortable situation, I've been trying to raise the little voice in my head that has the power to say "you know what, this is not pleasant, but that's ok." Even something as simple as that actually makes me feel better about it. And since what we focus on grows, I'm going to focus on palm trees and sand. I'll let you know if I end up on a beach!

I'm starting my Kundalini yoga teacher training this weekend. I'm sooo excited to embark on what I imagine will be an incredible journey. And I'm taking you with me. I'm going to be blogging about my yogi adventures! Maybe that's what I'll call it: Yogi Adventures. 

So, here is me embracing Winter. Fashion definitely helps!

Speaking of fashion, another way to embrace Winter is to force yourself out of the house, put some lipstick on, and head to an event in your city. I'm really looking forward to Capital Catwalk on January 30. Ottawa doesn't host too many fashion shows so when one occurs, I'm on it! If you're in Ottawa or even Montreal, it will definitely be worth the drive. Get your tickets here.

PHOTOS BY ROSIE.

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Shine Bright

First post of 2016.

I've been feeling really good these past few weeks. A bit invincible but maybe just more like myself. I've been on a journey of doing what I love and following my heart. I've been making space in my mind to let my inner light shine. In other words, I've been 'taking out the trash' in my mind and making room for my truest self to come through. This will help me become my greatest version. After all, this is why I'm here. To be the best me. 

I'm starting this year on a deeper note because I want to connect with you on a more personal level. Of course, my posts will always be fashion inspired, but I wanted to make the writing portion of my posts more real. Less talk about what I'm wearing and the weather. 

I'm too excited for what this year will bring. I haven't set any resolutions in stone because I'm going to continue to listen to what my heart says and embrace it all - the good, the magical, the messy, and the sometimes uncomfortable. I trust in my most authentic self.  

This month, I'm beginning a self mastery course (Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training) for the next six months. I'm doing this for me. To strengthen my yoga practice and better my relationship with myself. I also want to share what I learn in hopes that it will help others like it has helped me. Let's just say I don't know how I functioned before knowing what Kundalini yoga is. 

I wish you love and happiness and light in 2016, and always. 

Hello head-to-toe Value Village!

PHOTOS BY AURELIA

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Vintage Pink Coat OOTD and Merry Christmas Eve-Eve!

Merry Christmas Eve-Eve! 

I wore this last weekend to do a bit of shopping and then to go out for Rosie's birthday. I've been loving this super mild winter weather this year. I get to wear all my lighter, thrifted coats and boots. I'm trying to milk it before the real winter hits. I've been obsessed with these faux leather leggings. I have a hard time finding pants that fit well, mostly due to my booty-waist ratio that doesn't fit the standard size. But leggings. Leggings always fit me well because they just snap to the curves. I also bought them in navy. 

Tell me, how are you? I know this is such a busy month for everyone so I do hope you find some relief this week and time to relax. Rest is so important. Remember that you can't pour from an empty cup. You have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others. 

I wish you the happiest holidays! 

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Long coat, short hair

I chopped off all my hair! And I'm digging it. I came to the decision whilst flipping through old photos and realizing I've had the same variation of hair for the past five years. Since I've been in the spirit of change this year, I decided to just go for it! I've never been too attached to my hair and I'm pretty handy with turbans so I figured I couldn't go wrong. I'm so happy with the results and I'm having fun with it. 

This outfit is one of a handful of my current winter uniforms. I switch between about five each season. I'm happy the bit of snow we got last week has already melted but unfortunately the cold stayed. I'm not complaining though since we've had such a mild winter so far. 

This scarf is actually a piece of material I found at the thrift store. If you're looking for a big cozy scarf, don't forget to check the material section! You might need to cut it a bit or you might get lucky like me and it's the perfect size. Their material tends to be priced a bit lower than the scarves, too. 

I'm still on the lookout for some awesome winter boots. I'm having trouble finding a new pair since most of the ones I see are either: 1) Too boring. 2) Not warm enough. 3) Too expensive. If you see any wicked ones, send them my way! 

What are your winter uniform essentials? 

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Daisy Lyfe

I live with my twin sister and on most days I wake up before her. She always has to see what I'm wearing before I leave the door. I'd say she even looks forward to it by the look on her face. This one morning last week, she said "Why don't you take pictures for your blog before you leave? You always look the best for work." Two seconds later I handed her the camera. She's my #1 fan and I'm hers. 

Vest: Value Village, $3. Skirt: Value Village, $5. Shirt: ASOS, $30. Hairscarf: Ardene, $3. Heels: Expressions, $19. Pearls: Grandma's. 

Photos by Lisa Kidd. 

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Thick of Winter

I feel like weather-wise, we're currently on the fence between Winter and Spring. It's still freezing and there are piles upon piles of snow but we're a week away from March, so that's gotta mean Spring is around the corner, right?

I often feel like I wear more of a uniform in the Winter rather than an actual outfit. I can only afford so many coats and very few are warm enough to own a variety. My dream coat would be a camel Max Mara long classic coat with the sash tie. I came across the next best thing on a recent thrifting trip. I loved it so much, I didn't even see the pricetag until it was scanned and my eyes widened. I wouldn't normally spend $40 on a used coat but this one was different for some reason. It is gorgeous and exactly the colour and texture I wanted. It's oversized, has huge pockets, and is lined with silk. When I got home, I looked at the materials and read wool, cashmere, and angora. Suddenly the price tag made sense and actually seemed cheap. The inner tag also said it was made in France. I originally hadn't planned on wearing it until Spring because it seems so thin but I just couldn't resist. It's actually sooo warm, my guess is because of the materials. That and it's a lot longer than my actual Winter coat so it keeps my legs warm. 

I'm also on the hunt for a new pair of docs since I'm ruining my pretty flower ones. I have my eyes on the new collection, have you seen? Ugh.  

Coat: Dejac, Value Village, $40. Scarf: Value Village, $6. Leggings: Winners, $16. Boots: New Look, $40. Hair Scrunchy: Ardene, $4 pack of two. 

Photos by Jon Lindsay. 

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BYE BYE 2014!

Just before it becomes 2015, I wanted to reflect a little bit and I've also rounded up 10 of my favourite outfits of 2014. This year definitely had it's challenges but that also meant that I learned and grew a lot. I was fortunate to have many new experiences and finally hopped on a plane for the first time ever. I overcame many fears and was able to have the courage to ask for help when I needed it. I've learned a lot about myself this year. Most importantly that I will never dye my hair brown again. 

I am soooo looking forward to 2015. I love a fresh start. There will be a new set of challenges and adventures to come in 2015 and I can't wait to see what will happen. Happy New Year! Stay safe and don't drink and drive. If you're in Ottawa (Canada), take advantage of Operation Red Nose (free rides) or if you're anywhere else in the world, please phone a friend, call a cab, take a bus, or even walk! It's better than risking it. 

Thanks to all my fabulous readers for showing your support of my blog this year. I truly do it purely because I enjoy it and it's become a hobby for me. Thanks to my blogger friends for welcoming me into the fashion blogging community with open arms. Part of blogging is commenting and supporting other bloggers. This year I've gotten to chat with some pretty awesome ladies around the world who share the same love of fashion and thrifting that I do. That's pretty awesome if you ask me! To my blogger friends: I love checking your blogs to see what you've been up to and most importantly what you're wearing! Keep it up because I really enjoy viewing your blogs as much as I love updating mine.

I wish you all the best in 2015 and hope it brings you everything you hope for and more!

From left: Keeping Things Groovy, Knits for Spring?, Carnivale, Colour Me Wild, I Think I'm Turning Japanese, 

From left: Afternoon Tea & A Wedding, MODern, 90s Two-Piece, Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show, Camel Coat/Grunge Boots 

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Camel Coat / Grunge Boots

Winter keeps coming then going. On this particular day, it was very cold. I love this coat, it's so luxurious and very warm. This hat was my staple last winter and will probably be with me for this winter too. Lately I've been trying to focus on finding cool boots to wear for this season since I basically just wear one or two of the same coats. I find accessories are the best way to express my personal style when out and about in the colder months. I adore these new boots. I originally saw a similar pair by Celine and another by Cheap Monday but wasn't willing to pay the price. I don't usually shop online but when I came across these boots on Go Jane, I had to have them. How do you dress for the colder weather?

Coat: Aquascutum, gifted. Boots: Go Jane, $37. Jeans: H&M, 12 pounds. Long Shirt/Dress: Value Village, $4. Hat: H&M, $6. Scarf: H&M, $20. 

Photos by Lisa Kidd. 

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Knits for Spring?

As you may have heard from us Canadians, winter just isn't seeming to go away any time soon. We had about a week of sunshine and +3s and now we're back to mountains of snow and -10c. This sweater dress has been a true comfort all season. I bought it at the Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show for $25 (haggled from $40) since it had a stain on it. Lucky for me, the stain did come out and I know I didn't waste my money. I get so many compliments on it and it's one of my most comfy ensembles. I feel weird if I don't wear red lip stick with it so I always do. I wore this for a day of shopping with Rosie. Speaking of shopping, the Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show is back April 13 at the Convention Centre and you KNOW I'll be there! If you live in the area, I encourage you to come check it out! 

Dress: Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show, $25. Purse: Value Village, $6. Necklace: Material Girl, $10. Boots: Forever 21, $25. Rings: Value Village, $4. The Bay, $8. 

Photos by Rosie Waugh.

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Sun on my face.

Things are truly looking up weather-wise. Yesterday it was 3 degrees and I actually felt the sun on my face. I went downtown with my sister and while she went to the art gallery for an assignment, I shopped. I mainly stayed in The Bay but also ventured into Zara. I didn't have any luck finding shoes or clothes but I did pick up a gold daisy necklace and a new ring. When all else fails, you can never have too many accessories right? Then we met up and went on a search for her new pair of Vans (she buys a new black pair every year). 
My outfit was inspired by the fact that it was actually sunny out and I could wear a lighter jacket (although I was sweating profusely in the mall). I got this coat in a thrift store for $3. It's kinda matted and flimsy but I think that's why I love it. That and it's leopard and furry. I'm so excited for Spring dressing. I'll feel less like I'm wearing a uniform and more like I can express myself freely. I like wearing a different jacket and shoes everyday. 

Coat: Bibles for Missions, $3. Dress: Gap, Rikochet Resale, $20. Tights: Mark's thermal, $20. Boots: Forever 21, $22. Gloves: Bentley, $6. Ring: Vintage Clothing Show, $10. Purse: Value Village, $4. 

Material Girl, The Bay, $10. 

Expression, The Bay. $5.99. 

Photos by Lisa Kidd & myself.

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10 ways to pretend it's summer.

MORE snow?
I want summmmmmmmerrrrrr.
I want to ride my bike. 
MORE layers? 
I'm hot. I'm cold. I'm cold and wet.
I have frost bite. 
Everything is so heavy.
Glasses fogged = blind.

These seem to be my recurring thoughts (and sometimes phrases) these days. While I do love the month of March, I really only love it because it means Spring is near. These last couple weeks of Winter are when I start to really become ~over it~. I get the sense that I'm not alone in this. I hear it from friends and coworkers, read it on social media and websites. We're all over it. Until the sun comes out for good, here are 10 ways you can pretend it's summer:

1.. Surround yourself with warmth. Wear warm clothes, drink tea/coffee, eat soup/chili/spicy foods. Invest in some greenery for the home/office. I surround myself with plants. Cactuses give that extra summery vibe (and they're cheap- I got my office cactus at Ikea). 





2. Look at pictures of summer. Fake plan a trip somewhere. I fake planned a trip to Hawaii last night and I have to say I felt better. Fake it till you make it, right? 



3. Listen to summer music. Songza's Tropical Beach Vacation is my playlist on repeat. 

4. Put on your bathing suit, grab the bubble bath and summer-scented candles, and pretend your tub is an ocean escape.



5. Plan a summer road trip, scope out what concerts you'd like to see this summer, or even start saving for a vacation. Get excited about your plans!

6. Wear sunglasses. Don't ask questions, just do it.




7. Wear some COLOUR! I see way too much black clothing during this season. Wearing colour will wake you - and others - up!



8. Move your body. We spend enough time freezing during winter. Exercising not only releases feel-good chemicals but also boosts self-confidence and best of all, it makes us feel warm, even hot! I work out in the gym at my work, yoga on Sundays, and a bit of home-Zumba in between. Wherever, however you can, get moving!

9. Focus on the positives. Put on your happy goggles and try to focus your vision on all the aforementioned. Spend time with friends and family, try a new recipe, write in a journal, cuddle your dog/cat, catch up on the latest runway shows, whatever makes you happy and focused, do it.

10. Do the research. According to statistics, in just twoish weeks, we should be in the clear (or so I hope):

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Keeping things groovy.

While it's horribly cold and goopy outside, I like to keep things groovy on the inside. This is one of my favourite and most frequented blazers that I wear to work. My t-shirt you may recognize from my latest thrift haul video; It's such a fun print but if you stare at it too long you may start to see stars! The purse was a score from H&M and I predict it to be a summer favourite. I paired it with classic black skinny jeans and my gold sequinned oxfords. This is the time of year for indulgence, relaxation, and keeping things groovy until the storm passes. And by storm, I mean six months of winter. 

Blazer: Value Village, $10. T-shirt: Value Village, $6. Jeans: Forever 21, here. Shoes: Winners, $15. Purse: H&M, $3. Glasses: Kenzo.

All photos taken by Lisa Kidd.

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