STYLE | 15 Resolutions to Keep in 2015

via Bionda Castana

Originally posted in The CLOSET

There's nothing like a brand new year to make us rethink the way we do everything. From getting fit to starting fresh with our family, the hope of change can motivate us to do some amazing things. Luckily, January doesn't have to mean a complete overhaul of the way you run your life. I personally like to keep my resolutions stylish, streamlined and sometimes sparkly. I like getting rid of excess baggage, both metaphorically and physically. Like, I seriously have so many bags to give away to Goodwill. And while a new necklace or pair of shoes isn't going to turn me into the best possible me, I know they'll make me stand taller and slightly shift my point of view. 

Let's all resolve to be a little more stylish this year, shall we? It might be a small thing but you'll be amazed by how 15 pieces will change your 2015 (or at least your 2015 closet) for the better. As for budget, let's just ignore that resolution for the moment. Oh, come on, it's January - it's the best time for dreaming big, don't you think?

SEE MY 15 STYLISH PICKS HERE...

Super NOVA

I'll be honest. The last two weeks have been great. I've eaten everything and done nothing. You'd think that after all of that doing nothing and eating everything that I would have been primed to jump right back into action yesterday. And yet, there I sat, staring at my computer, continuing to do nothing productive. I picked up Amy Poehler's new book (which I love, btw), went skiing with my husband in the afternoon WITHOUT the kids, and then topped off my epic productivity with a binge 3-hour watch of the new season of The Bachelor, including a 1 hour red carpet featuring Bachelor C-listers to kick off what promises to be the most romantic, shocking season yet. Oh, and I whitened my teeth. Yup. 

So, today, I'm back to work. For real this time. But instead of diving into the deep end, I'm easing my way, inch by inch, into the so-far-calm waters of 2015. My uniform for these first few weeks? This perfectly loungey outfit from Bootlegger's pretty new NOVA Collection. With its Kit & Ace vibe, it's ready for yoga or weekends or any day you're lucky enough to be at home, especially if your holidays weren't nearly as relaxing or stress-free as you'd hoped. And since all three pieces check out for a total of under $100 (remember to use code 'TOONIESHIP' for $2 shipping), I highly recommend you pick up the whole outfit.

It's all about balance. Or at the very least, attempting to restore it. Happy new year xx

PRET-A-PARTY | 3 Rocking NYE Outfits

Originally posted in The Fashion Scoop

New Year's Eve always turns out to be a toss-up. Do you brave the crowds to party in public, risking over-priced everything for the possibility of an epic night, or just keep it cozy at home with your favourites? Do you ring in the New Year with reams of ambitious resolutions or just chalk it up to another day like all the rest? I'm the last-minute type when it comes to NYE decisions. Right now, I'm debating between an 11th hour trip to the LCBO for bubbly or begging my mom to watch our kids so we can hit up our favourite restaurant (if we can get in...not likely, I know...), but no matter what we end up doing tonight, there will be sequins. Oh yes, there will be sequins. Because whether you make it maje or opt to keep it low-key, a brand new year deserves a seriously memorable outfit.

SEE THE NYE LOOKS HERE...

ps - oh, and happy, happy new year xx

The All New Jean Machine

I love the idea of jean shopping but in practice? Let's just say it can be overwhelming. A few weeks ago, Jean Machine asked me to be one of the first to come in and shop their newly remerchandised store at Toronto Eaton Centre and since I hadn't set foot in the store in a few years, could not wait to check it out. After all, I bought my first pair of Silvers at Jean Machine with my first real paycheque and picked up many more pairs throughout the years, so we have a long history of hits and misses. Oh, if those changerooms could talk...

The invite to check out the new Jean Machine store came with a few exciting promises: a new and improved product mix (curated with the help of famed fashion/creative director, Susie Sheffman), a little personal shopping help from Jean Machine's expert in-store stylists, plus a $200 credit to pick out a full look. Um, yay?!

I showed up at Toronto Eaton Centre and right away, noticed the super cute campaign styling and a slightly more airy feel to the space than before. I was greeted by the team of Jean Machine beauties, eager to help me find my perfect pair. I let them have their way with me. 'Size me up, show me what's new. Only one thing: no blue. I want black.'

I passed loads of jeans, all beautifully organized by fit to make the jean-shopping process more manageable and was thrilled to see some of my favourite denim brands in stock throughout the store plus other labels I love like Soia & Kyo, ONLY, and Vero Moda. Beyond jeans, I saw loads of gorgeous coats, some super pretty dresses and fashion-girl musts like felt fedoras and oversized plaid scarves.

The girls picked out a dozen super pretty pieces (mostly black) and I had a super fun try-on sesh. While one Jean Machiner was rooting for an emerald blouse and body-hugging leggings, it just wasn't me. So we agreed that I should go for all black with loads of texture to keep it interesting. Being a mom can make you feel too good, if that makes sense. I needed some pieces with edge.

I ended up with a Guess faux-fur vest which I LOVE, a pair of perfect faux leather joggers from YDE Studio and a fun textured black tee. They look great together but I especially love that I'll be able to easily mix each piece into my wardrobe this winter.

If you haven't had the chance, be sure to check out the new Jean Machine. You'll love what they've done with the place.

'TIS THE SEASON: Your Best-Ever Holiday Wardrobe

Photo via H&M

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Now's the time where we start to compile our wishlists and our seemingly endless to-do's. And while it's easy to let our wardrobes take a backseat since we have so many other things to check off our lists, here's some holiday food-for-thought for you. How can you take care of others when you haven't taken care of yourself? How can you shop when you're not properly outfitted? How, pray tell, can you host a holiday party when you're not the best-dressed babe in the room?

And so, I've put together the ultimate holiday wardrobe for you, from the coziest jammies (consider them your down-time partners in crime), to the best boots (some snow-friendly, some sparkly), to the most stunning party pieces to get you through the holidays in enviable style. 

It's all about holiday survival, ladies. And if survival requires shopping, you know I'm all for it...

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