WHISTLER TRAVEL DIARY: WHAT SHOES TO PACK ON YOUR TRIP
As you guys know, I had a chance to visit Whistler last month with Shoppers Drug Mart. The trip was amazing and right up my alley since we did our fair share of hiking, restaurant hoping and gondola rides up to Blackcomb Mountain.
Since I have so many pictures to share, I thought I would spilt my post into three parts:
Fall beauty trend forecasting with Shoppers (post here)
What to Do (coming soon)
What to Pack (what you're reading now)
If you're like me then you stress out about what to pack on holiday, let alone a press trip with plenty of out doors activities. My solution, chic and comfortable Stan Smiths (from Town Shoes) and cute ankle boots (also from Town Shoes). Both are excellent for traveling since they're easy to slip in and out of at the airport and they go well with so many different outfits. I wish I had a picture to show you guys but on my last day in Whistler, I wore a cute LBD, a leather jacket and my Stan Smiths to dinner. It was the perfect balance of chic but still elegant enough for a dinner out.
I always like to pack at least one pair of black jeans. They can easily be dressed up and dressed down. A striped long sleeve top is a fun way to keep an outfit from looking too serious and of course my Stan Smiths from Town Shoes are perfect for any scenario.
The climate in Whistler changes from day to day and depending on where you are. As we rode up the gondola to Blackcomb Mountain, it was chilly and foggy. Once on top, the clouds broke and the sun came out.
MY WHISTLER SHOE PICKS
From classic white kicks to suede ankle boots. These Dolca Vita booties from Town Shoes are excellent for transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall. Bonus, they're so comfortable you can wear them all day.
Finally, make sure you pack layers. My go-to is my Mackage leather jacket and a long sleeved top. I also like to carry around a small crossbody bag like the Saint Laurent bag in this post because they're worry free.
People are always surprised to hear that I'm a nature nut. I would leave the city in a heartbeat to live in the mountains. Obsiously saying goodbye to Whistler wasn't easy but I'm thankful for the experience. Take me back please!
* This post is sponsored by Town Shoes. All photos and opinions are my own.
** Special thanks to Shoppers Drug Mart & Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
GUCCI SHOE HAUL, REVIEWS & METALLIC SHOE TRENDS FOR FALL
Gucci is everywhere right now and if you're not tired of the brand yet, then this post is for you. I'm doing a quick review on their most popular slippers and loafers and also showing you guys my metallic shoe collection that has been years in the making. It's interesting how when you're true to your personal style everything just comes together.
I'd like to know what you guys think of the Gucci trend and do you have any pairs on your wish list?
GUCCI GOLD CROSS OVER SANDALS
I've hear from a few people now that these sandals aren't the easiest to walk in and it's true. Maybe it's the 4.5" heel (with no platform) or maybe it's the bulky heel but these shoes are not made for walking long distances in. Regardless I think they're super chic and go with so many summer outfits and will transition well into early fall. I should mention though that I did get these on sale for half off and had it not been for the sale price, I probably wouldn't have gotten them. If you're not a fan of high heels, I say pass on these.
FIT: Italian sizing, runs small. I recommend you go half a size up.
SPLURGE ON IT $$$
GUCCI GOLD PRICETOWN LEATHER SLIPPER
I spotted these on Instagram in early spring and went crazy looking for them. I ordered them through Gucci.com since I wasn't able to find a store in Toronto that carried this particular colour. If you guys follow my blog, you'll know I've been wearing them non stop. They're by far the most comfortable pair of shoes I own and the gold makes them effortlessly chic. They're the kind of shoes that can be worn with anything and still look fashion forward. Best of all, the leather is super soft so you don't need to break these in.
FIT: Italian sizing, runs small. I recommend you go half a size up.
ONLINE SHOPPING TIP: Gucci.com includes customs and taxes into your order so that you're not paying additional duties when your order arrives. They also accept Paypal which is my favourite form of online payment!
ON A BUDGET
GUCCI PINK JORDAAN LEATHER LOAFER
The story of this shoe is a little wild. I originally saw these on my style crush Lizzy VD Ligt and started creeping all over the internet for them only to come up empty handed. Fast forward to a few months later, I happen to be walk into the Gucci store after a meeting only to see my dream pink loafer on display. Long story short, it turns out the store had gotten the one pair by accident, which happens to be a half size too big for me. Thirty mintues of hmmm-ing and haaa-ing later, I decided to take them home with me since I know they'd fit well with the help of insoles. They're just different enough from my gold slides to justify my purchase but most importantly, I love them. #ConfessionsOfAShoeaholic
FIT: Italian sizing, runs small. I recommend you go half a size up.
This colour is unavailable in North America but the Jordaan loafer can be found in silver, black, gold and red online. For pink loafers, check out the Gucci pink fringe metallic pump (here) or the Topshop version (here).
3.1 PHILLIP LIM GUNMETAL QUINN LOAFER
This is the shoe that started my love of metallic leather footwear. I had gotten these a few years back and similar to my gold slippers, I went through a great deal of looking before I found them online. Forever 21 famously ripped off this design and the replica was so close, I wonder how they got away with it.
Phillip Lim comes out with the Quinn loafer each season in different colours and textures, but I've never seen him do something as amazing as these. This loafer is a testament to why it's important to buy what you love and not for trends because even years later, I still think they're the shit.
SAINT LAURENT PARIS BABIES GLITTER BOOTIE
So many of my shoes have a story and that's probably because I'm ridiculously picky and ridiculously passionate about my footwear! A few years ago I had seen a picture of Gilda Ambrosio in all black wearing the most amazing pink ankle boots I had ever seen. The last year I happen to be in Marshalls when I saw them on display for such a insanely low price that I almost fell over. They were half a size too small but I was determined to stretch them out. I wore them around the house for weeks in thick socks before the leather finally started to give and they fit me properly. It's funny seeing them next to my pink loafers since they're almost the exact same colour.
*Shot on location at Langdon Hall.
Special thanks to the luxury hotel & spa for making this story come to life!
TRANSITIONING YOUR WARDROBE INTO FALL
If you're like me you're excited for fall. You're ready for layers, velvet pants, suede boots, leather jackets and wool coats. You're ready for sweaters and chunky knits and hats but the ongoing heat in the city is preventing us from truly transitioning our wardrobes to autumn.
What's a girl to do? It's simple really - summer on the bottom and fall on top (like I did here) and no one will question your sartorial choices. Trust me. All of the cool girls are doing it. Just look at some of my faves from NYFW. Their outfits are so seasonally balanced that you probably didn't even realize what was going on. So before the cold weather really hits, have some fun and wear a leather jacket and ankle boot with a pair of shorts and enjoy what I call "wear anything weather."
SPLURGE ON IT $$$
STYLE TIP: Shop at the men's section for a more relaxed, chic look. The Paul Smith sweater I'm wearing in this post is a men's medium and in my opinion makes the outfit more balanced when paired with a leather mini and heels.
ON A BUDGET
FALL TRANSITION INSPO VIA PINTEREST @ woahstyle
NOT YOUR MOM'S MAKEUP; ESTΓE LAUDER
Growing up I always thought of EstΓ©e Lauder as one of those ultra sophisticated brands that were meant for my mum and not for me. Their campaigns have always been very chic with beautifully done up models but I only started to take notice when they named Kendall Jenner as the new face of the brand. She appears stunning and fresh faced and I can't help but think "I'll use what she's using."
I recently stopped by the EstΓ©e Lauder office in Toronto to check out their Fall 2016 preview to see what the brand has in store for us.
SKINCARE
These two items are on my fall must have list; the Advanced Night Repair Intensive Recovery Ampules (perfect for de-stressing skin during travel or just during stressful times when our skin freaks out) and the Global Anti-Aging Wake Up Balm (it contains a touch of shimmer and instantly provides radiance to the skin). Both are suitable for all ages, all skin types, all year round use, and day and night. I've been taking them with me on my recent travels and I've noticed my skin has maintained its balance.
MAKEUP
EstΓ©e Lauder recently launched a new kind of cushion foundation, Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup, a medium coverage demi-matte formula. The liquid foundation comes in a twist up stick that easily blends into the skin with the help of the cushion that's built on top. It's quick to apply, mess-free and most of all, the foundation is incredible.
A new lipstick hits the shelves just in time for fall, Pure Color Envy Hi-Lustre. The formula is highly moisturizing with a nice sheen that's perfect for wearing alone or on top of a matte lipstick for longevity.
Finally, Victoria Beckham fans rejoice when her limited edition collection with EstΓ©e Lauder hits shelves next month. I haven't seen the lineup yet but I hear there's eye and lip products along with a bronzer and skincare items to create Beckham's signature flawless look.
Kendall Jenner, the new face of EstΓ©e Lauder.
In collaboration with EstΓ©e Lauder.
Kendall Jenner images provided by Overcat. All other images are original and property of woahstyle.com
REVIEW: SMASHBOX ALWAYS ON MATTE LIQUID LIPSTICKS
Just when you thought the liquid lipstick trend was over, Smashbox comes out with the new Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick. For starters, the colours are beautiful and highly pigmented with 20 new shades which range from lavender, to cool grey and brown. For the more traditional girl, there's corals, reds, pinks, berries and nudes. Oh and there's that deep red called Bawse they did in collaboration with YouTube megastar, Lilly Singh.
I'll be honest, when these first landed on my desk I didn't have high hopes. I get a lot of lipstick samples and I'm very fickle about what I like but after trying them out, I can say these are fab!
These liquid lipsticks apply like a cream formula but it dries completely matte soon after. Once dry, it DOES NOT COME OFF. (I recommend removing it with an oil based makeup remover or a potent micellar water like Garnier's waterproof micellar.) Long lasting lipsticks are always great in my books but how they feel on the lips is just as important. Since the Smashbox formula is matte, it does feel a bit dry, but it's far more comfortable to wear than other mattes I've tried. (Hello Kat Von D! Love your lippies but they're dry AF!)
I've been using these non-stop since I got them. The colours are great, the formula is awesome and the price point is decent for a high end lippie at $28 each. You can pick up the Smashbox Always On Matte lippies at Sephora and Shopper's Drug Mart nationwide.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR LIQUID LIPSTICK LAST EVEN LONGER
The following is a makeup trick I use to make my lipstick last even longer. I do this if I'm at a photo shoot or at an event. First I apply the Always On liquid lipstick to my lip as normal. Then I apply a regular cream formula lipstick over top in the matching colour. Doing this adds a bit of moisture to the matte liquid lipstick and makes it feel more comfortable on the lips. Somehow this mix calls for longer wear, as opposed to drying out too much and having the lipstick wear out on the inside-centre of the lip (...like when you eat or drink or talk to much. I haven't met a liquid lip that doesn't do this). Try it and tell me what you think!
TIP: Make sure you use a cream lipstick and not lip balm since it will do the opposite and wear out lipstick faster.
In collaboration with Smashbox Canada. All opinions and photos are my own.
NEW SKINCARE ALERT: FOR BELOVED ONE
The top-selling skincare brand from Taiwan called For Beloved One*, has just landed on our doorsteps, and Canada for that matter. The line features deeply hydrating sheet masks with hyaluronic acid ($64 for a 3 pack), Hyaluronic Acid Tri-Molecules Moisurtizing Surge Cream ($95) and Brightening DD creams in rose, lavender and peach tints ($55 each).
Popular amongst celebrities in Taiwan and Hong Kong, For Beloved One has a cult following with their Melasleep products and bio-cellulose sheet masks which are made from the finest fibers for more absorption.
For Beloved One can be purchased at T&T supermarkets nationwide or online at yesstyle.ca.
*FBO samples provided to WoahStyle.com. All photos are our own.
BOLD MAKEUP FOR FALL: PURPLE EYE SHADOW
Happy Monday friends! With the constant heatwave in Toronto I know it's hard to think about fall but that's exactly what I'll be discussing today. If you follow me on Instagram you'll know that I've been in Whistler with Shoppers Drug Mart having the time of my life - dining on incredible meals, taking in the scenic views of Blackcomb Mountain and most importantly, looking fall makeup makeup trends and discussing our "beauty nevers". #BeautyDare (!!!)
I love playing around with makeup and there's hardly any trend I shy away from. Even still, purple eye shadow and false lashes have always been on the top of my list "never" list. Purple shadow because I feel it makes my olive skin look muddy and lack lustre and falsies because I don't have the patience for them. The few times I've attempted both, I've regretted it soon after and couldn't wait to get home to wash my face.
Photo by: Roxanne West of bonjourbliss.com
For my Shoppers #BeautyDare challenge, I sat down with makeup artist Simone Otis (known for her work with Shoppers Drug Mart, Elle, Bazaar, Rita Ora, Lorde, Bite Beauty, Fashion, Flare and Elisha Cuthbert to name a few), to create a purple eye and talk about beauty techniques when applying false lashes. This is what I learned.
1. Makeup artist Simone Otis put my "beauty never" to rest and showed me that olive skin can be a good canvas for purple shadow.
She created graphic eye on me and explained the secret is to layer in a few shades to really make the purple pop. For my look she used Clarins Cream-to-Powder eyeshadow in Silver Plum as a base and then layered in three purple shades from Urban Decay - Gravity, Asphyxia and Psychedelic Sister. The look was finished with a subtle cat eye, curled lashes and lots of mascara. I'm not gonna lie, it was a bit strange seeing my eyes wrapped in so much purple but that was the whole point of this challenge, to step outside of our comfort zone and try something new.
When I replicated the look on myself I added a touch of pink on the inner corner of my eye and transitioned to purple on the outer corners. A lot of purple still feels foreign to me so this was my way of getting comfortable with the colour. Now that I understand how purple works with my olive skin tone, I'm excited to try a bold purple cat eye that transitions to black on the outer corners. It's more within my comfort zone while still being bold.
2. Applying false lashes doesn't have to be daunting.
As much as I like the look of false lashes I never do it because it takes so much time and there's so much room for error (or so I thought). Simone showed me a technique no one really talks about that blew my mind!
Use individual lashes instead of a strip to create a more natural look that will hold up longer. She applied about 11 individual lashes on the upper part of my eye. She started at the outer corners and concentrated most of the individuals there. Then she moved towards the centre of my lash line and left the inner corner au naturel. The finished look was natural but still very bold. I doubt anyone would have been able to tell I was wearing falsies if I hadn't told them.
The benefits of individual lashes outweigh strip lashes in my opinion. You can add as many or as little extensions as you want anywhere you need it. They're also less likely to fall off which is amazing! (We've all been there, when your lash strip lifts from the inner part of your eye and no one tells you. Not cute!)
Finally, make sure to use a good lash glue. Simone introduced me to Duo lash adhesive. If you wear falsies than you would have already heard of it but this was a whole new world for me. It dries clear and it's hypoallergenic. Perf!
I gotta hand it to Simone Otis, she converted me on my "beauty never". I might not wear purple eyeshadow or false lashes daily but at least now I know how therefore I feel more confident pulling off these looks.
Now it's your turn. I dare you step outside of your comfort zone and think about your "beauty never". Start by talking to a makeup artist. Shoppers has an amazing team ready to teach you the tricks and tips you need to achieve a new fall look. Make sure to ask a lot of questions when you sit down with them so that you feel comfortable replicating the looks at home.
This post is in collaboration with Shoppers Drug Mart.
All opinions and photos are my own.
#NEWIN ANNABELLE VOLUME MASCARAS, METALLIC LIPSTICKS & MORE
Drug store beauty fave, Annabelle, has recently launched new mascaras, gel lip liners (a must-have for your beauty bag), metallic lip crayons and their staple LIPSIES balms in new "diamond" finish for a hint of shimmer.
Seven new mascaras have just launched from mega volume building to lengthening.
For those who love long lashes - you'll want to try:
Lash Launcher for lengthening.
Blastoff for curls.
Supernova for an all-in-one.
If you prefer big, bold lashes like me, then you'll want to try:
Big Show for mega volume.
Big Show Waterproof for mega volume in a waterproof formula (not pictured).
Expandable for volume & length building.
Outlash for dramatic, wide eyed volume with a 360Β° twishted brush.
Mascaras retail for $9.95 with exception of the Expandable Mascara which is $10.95.
In case you don't know it yet, Annabelle makes some of the best lip liners on the market, drug store or high end. These Gel Lip Liners are no exception! They come in 6 colours and retail for $8.95. (Nude Attitude not pictured.)
Annabelle also keep's up with the metallic lip trend with their new Twistup Metallic Retractable Lipstick Crayons. They come in 6 colours and retail for $9.95, which is much more affordable that the Kylie Cosmetics Metals.
Finally, the popular LIPSIES lineup has 6 new "diamond" shades. These moisturizing balms have shimmer added to a sheer wash of colour and retail for $4.95.
Annabelle cosmetics can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart across Canada and Well.ca amongst other retailers.
All prices are in CAD dollars.
Samples provided by Annabelle Cosmetics.
All opinions are my own and all photos belong to WoahStyle.com
#NEWIN MAKE UP FOR EVER WATER BLEND FOUNDATION
New series alert: #newin!
In the past I've only featured my favourite products in the Beauty section which in hindsight is a bit biased.
The purpose of starting this new series is to give you, dear reader, an overview of new product launches that are hitting the market. I'll try to post in real time as items head my way, but right now I'm trying to catch up on the many exciting things that are waiting to be photographed, swatched and played with.
So, without further ado, I want to talk about the latest foundation launch from Make Up For Ever called Water Blend.
Water Blend Face & Body Foundation in Warm Ivory (R330), Medium Beige (R370) and Golden Honey (Y405). I have medium olive skin and I've been using Y405 on my face and chest when I wear low cut tops.
This face and body makeup comes in 20 shades from Pink Alabaster to Dark Brown and retails for $54 CND. The easy to blend formula contains 80% water and is enriched with pro-vitamin B5, resulting in a sheer, dewy, natural finish that is ideal for every day wear.
If you like natural looking makeup, this one is for you and you should definitely check it out. Anyone who prefers a full coverage makeup might want to pass on this one.
TIPS FOR LONG LASTING MAKEUP
- Always use a makeup primer before you apply foundation.
- Apply foundation to your neck for a seamless, flawless look. If you're wearing a low cut top, bring your foundation down to your chest.
- Once you've applied your foundation, use a translucent powder to set it with a large fluffy brush (like this one).
- Finally, once you've done your full face, use a light mist of setting spray to lock your makeup in place.
- Application: I apply my Water Blend with my fingers although a Beauty Blender or a brush work best if you want your makeup to last all day.
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Thank you to Make Up For Ever Canada for sending over samples of Water Blend.
All opinions are my own and all photos belong to WoahStyle.com