Danier Gift Card Giveaway

A look from the OBJECT by George Antonopoulos for Danier Spring '12 Campaign

Philip Sparks for Danier. Want!

Danier's come a long way.  Sure, they've always been a great Canadian company but they've recently evolved into a major fashion force, with their coveted designer pieces from the likes of Philip Sparks and style visionary George Antonopoulos.  Whether you're jonesing for a new pastel bomber, a great new travel bag, or a buttery leather clutch, Danier's where it's at this spring.  

As treat week continues, we're giving away a $50 gift card to Danier.  To win, leave a comment below telling me what you want most from Danier this spring.  Contest closes at 5 pm today! Thanks Danier and Brill Communications for the great giveaway! xo

Imitating Annabelle Fleur

The Inspiration: Annabelle Fleur of Viva Luxury (is that her real name?) Love how she mixed bright red denim with a breton striped shirt.  Her little touch of leopard looks cute, not cougarific.

The Pose:  Hand on wall (this felt really, really awkward to me...I don't generally lean on walls, unless I've had one of those nights...), legs crossed (makes legs look longer, thinner, apparently), a look of complete boredom (I looked pretty bored last time so thought I'd smile this one out).  Immediately after taking this pic, I was all set to...um, go back inside, change into something I could get dirty and plant flowers with my kids all day.  At least I looked good at breakfast :) 

The Must-Have Spring Item:  The Bright Jean

The Find:  JACOB's Coloured Denim Jeans ($39.90) 

The Verdict:  I've worn them, I've washed them and I love them.  They're stretchy, slim and a great vibrant shade of red, and don't stretch out like so many of the other inexpensive bright jeans I've sampled.  Since they're red, I'll be able to wear them all year long.  Such a score for under $40! 

Imitating Amanda Brooks

  

Fashion Icon Amanda Brooks of 'I Love Your Style' - photo source harpersbazaar.com

The Inspiration: Amanda Brooks, former Fashion Director of Barneys NY

The Pose:  Hand in pocket (perfect for avoiding stiff arms), full frontal pose (makes you look über confident), shades on (even though it was raining outside), no smile ('cause that's the way Amanda Brooks rolls...at least in this pic) 

The Must-Have Spring Item:  The Pajama Shirt (à la Thakoon)

The Find:  JACOB's Contrast-Collar Shirt

The Verdict:  I love this shirt!  Looks good loose and laissez-faire (with white or black skinnies or great summer shorts) or tucked in and proper for work with a pencil skirt and killer heels. Sold out online but still available in select stores

Over a month ago, JACOB got in touch with me to see if I could try out a few of their new spring pieces.  The nearest JACOB is about an hour away so I rarely get to shop there anymore, but I was stoked to test out their online store.  So, I ordered 3 great pieces, waited 3 days and they arrived, shiny and new on my doorstep.  I've been a JACOB fan for a long time and I have to admit, I was super impressed with their new collection.  Plus, they're a Canadian company - all the more reason to shop there when I can.

The reason for the delay?  The same reason that I rarely post pics of myself and the reason that the lovely Ashley models all of my street style looks - I hate getting my picture taken.  I'm okay in a group but when asked to pose on my own, I get really stiff soldier arms, my hands do super weird things and I look like I've gone a little loco with the tequilaaa.  So, in this 3-piece instalment I like to call 'Ghetto Poseur Street Style', I've gone to some of my most-loved street stylers for some sartorial inspiration.  I'll be wearing my new JACOB pieces and will attempt to emulate their looks...to pose like the posers as it were. It somehow feels way more natural that way...Check back Wed for Attempt #2.  Merci bien, JACOB.  Je t'aime!  xoxo

Found: A Great White

The first of a four-day week is almost over and I have yet to post (bad blogger!) so thought I should share this pretty new blouse I found at H&M over the weekend.  It's made of 100% cotton, has great long sleeves, gorgeous embroidered details and a lovely neckline - everything I look for in a perfect summer blouse.  At under $30, it will make the perfect guilt-free addition to all of your bright summer bottoms.  Isn't she lovely?!  

The Embroidered Cotton Blouse ($29.95) is waiting for you at H&M

It's Time for Some...

Feeling stressed, stumped or stymied when it comes to finding the perfect present for your sweet maman?  Take a look at these last-minute little luxuries, guaranteed to make her feel extra special this Mom's Day.

P.S - Check back this week for loads more fashionable gift ideas for every mom and every budget.

1. Drew Box Clutch, $95, Banana Republic

2. Lollia Relax Lavender & Honey Handcreme, $26, dealuxe.ca

3. Mason Pearson Hair Brush, $132, ebeauty.ca

4. Mother's Day Pajama Shirt, $195, Tory Burch Yorkdale Mall

5. Irreverent by Carine Roitfeld, $72.60, Chapters/Indigo

6. Python Print Ballet Flat, $40, ALDO

7. Betty Braid Clutch, $68, French Connection

8. Floppy Sun Hat, $34.95, Gap

9. Lorac Unzipped Eye Palette, $52, Sephora

10. Tiny Luck Necklace, $34, BeauandStella on Etsy