14 Resolutions Worth Keeping in 2014

Source: Pinterest

Originally posted in The LOOK

At -21 degrees (windchill notwithstanding), 2014 is off to a very chilly start. While you huddle up indoors, away from the deadly polar vortex swirling around outside, I think now's a pretty good time to take stock of the year ahead. If you're like me, my grand New Year's resolutions never really pan out the way I plan. All good intentions for eating like Gwyneth Paltrow and working out like a ninja usually fall by the wayside sometime around next week and by then, I'll likely already be back to my 2013 ways. 

So this year, I resolve to make more realistic goals - small little things that will make a positive impact on my day-to-day, from wearing cooler jeans to updating my playlist. If you're looking to refresh, recharge and renew, too, read on for the 14 New Year's resolutions that might actually be worth keeping this year...

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On How to Survive a Cold Snap

It's cold. (HOW COLD IS IT??) Glad you asked - it's so cold that Anna Wintour looks warm. So cold that Miley Cyrus is wearing clothes. So cold that all the members of One Direction are pointing south. For the record, I made those up. Really, there's nothing else to do - it's SO cold.

If you're one of those people who've neglected to buy true winter wear for the past few years, you might be wishing you'd bought that on-sale parka when you had the chance. Luckily it's not too late to pick up these super cozy finds to help you brave this bitter cold snap. 

Think warm thoughts, beauties. 

xx

Waffle Knit Toque, $10, Joe Fresh

TNA Courchevel Parka, $250, Aritzia

V-Neck Chunky Knit Sweater, $39, Joe Fresh

Kenneth Cole Down Jacket, $158, Hudson's Bay

Waffle Knit Scarf, $16, Joe Fresh

TNA Ralston Pant, $40, Aritzia 

Conquest Carly Short Boot, $220, Sorel 

BRING IT ON: Fab Fitness Finds + a $100 SportChek Giveaway

Source: Pinterest

As I sit here polishing off my last box of Turtles (note to self: telling everyone who asks that you'd like Turtles for Christmas pretty much ensures that you'll also receive the gift of an extra 5 lbs over the hols), I am making my plan of rock-solid body attack. It goes a little something like this: start working out. 

It might sound simple, considering I exercised regularly until I had kids, but after sporadic attempts here and there, I have somehow lost my fitness mojo. And so 2014, we need to talk. You are my year. My year to get back at it. My year to prove that I'm still a lean, mean, pushup machine. My year to give this Turtle-fueled heart a little cardiac boost. I know that going to the gym isn't doing it for me anymore so dance classes, pilates, skiing, maybe even a little kickboxing will be my new go-to's. 2014, I'm making a commitment to you (and to me). 2014, we can do this. 

If you're feeling similarly motivated (and I'm not just talking Jan 1st fly-by-night resolutions here...), I want to help. First, check out the cute workout gear below. I consider pretty workout clothes the Jillian Michaels motivating equivalent (minus all the yelling). And if that's not enough?

We're giving away a $100 Gift Card to SportChek to help get you in gear for the brand new year.

SEE THE FULL POST HERE...

NYE 2013: 20 Party-Perfect Trends to Try

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Christmas is over (can you believe it?) and if you're at all like me, this is a week for chilling. But while I chill, I always find myself reflecting. I think of all the things I did this year - the good, the bad and the ugly - wondering how it all went so fast and imagining what 2014 will bring. And while I don't place all chances of next year's success on my New Year's outfit, I do feel that dressing up on the 31st is a tradition worth upholding.

To me, a glittery pair of heels, a fab frock or a festive tuxedo blazer is my little way of celebrating the year that's gone by and ushering in a brand new year. And whether that outfit brings good luck or not, whether anyone other than my little group of friends and family even notices that outfit or not, I like to think that putting in a little extra effort with my NYE look is like a little champagne toast to where I am right now.

Ready to celebrate but not sure what to wear? I've picked out the cutest trends that will help you shine extra bright this NYE. Read on for my party-ready picks and of course, an extra happy new year to you! xx

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RLR Hearts BRIKA

 

Are you the (very) last-minute type? Seems we're in the same boat since I just got around to posting about this fantastic shop. Forget panicked pick-ups in the gift card aisle tomorrow - this year, your colleagues, boss and friends will be floored by your thoughtfulness thanks to BRIKA. The modern online boutique BRIKA.com has teamed up with Hurrier bike courier to offer complimentary same-day delivery in Toronto. 

Toronto consumers within the delivery zone (see below) can enjoy same-day delivery on items in BRIKA’s Made in Canada shop at brika.com/canada by entering the code DELIVERME at checkout. This code will also give you 15% off your purchase.

This same-day service will be available until noon tomorrow (Tuesday, December 24) and is perfect for anyone searching for modern, well-crafted goods with a story. BRIKA’s Made in Canada shop features the work of nearly 50 under-the-radar Canadian artisans and designers, including Avril Loreti, Heyday Design, Cuchara and Lovefresh. Do your research tonight while lounging in front of Elf, then make your delivery gameplan for tomorrow am.

No clue where to start? Simply send a virtual BRIKA gift card right now, guaranteed to thrill any hard-to-please giftee.

Phew - disaster(s) averted. Thanks BRIKA! XX