12214 Holiday Gift Guide For Her
I composed this gift guide with all of the ladies in mind - for mum, the BFF, the co-worker, and every girl in between. The list contains some of my top fave items of the year and they're things that I'm very excited about gifting.
THE $20 GIFT - THE BRACELET
These adorable bracelets from Birds Of A Feather have gotten me a ton of compliments which is why it's the perfect small budget gift. The local Toronto jewellery line consists of cheap & cheerful fashionable pieces that are suitable for every age and style. With free shipping over $50 (within Canada), it's good to stock up on a few of these!
Gift To: Coworkers, sisters, cousins, nieces, BFF and yourself.
THE TASTY GIFT FOR EVERYONE
Just looking at pics of macarons on Instagram has me foaming at the mouth! Butter Avenue is a local Toronto pâtisserie & café that makes the most divine macarons I've ever had. Macarons make a delightful, unexpected and tasty gift for pretty much anyone on your list. With new holiday flavours like Candy Cane, Gingerbread and Mont Blanc, you'll be tempted to eat them before handing them over. Oh, and their little yellow boxes are elegant, adorable and fun to open!
Gift To: Host, boss, coworkers, parents, siblings, relatives, BFF... pretty much everyone.
THE UNDER $50 GIFT - THE BEAUTY ESSENTIALS
Don't let the adorable package fool you, the cosmetics in this metal keepsake tin are 100% sophisticated. Benefit Cosmetics have released their special Holiday Gift Sets that range from $25-$120. The Sugarglam Fairies set (above) contains some of my favourite Benefit products that I believe no girl should do without -
They’re Real! Mascara (full sized), The POREfessional (full sized) , Hoola (full sized) and Benetint (medium sized). The products are absolute staples for every girl's makeup bag and universal with so many skin tones.
Gift To: The makeup junkie in your life including your BFF, sister, mum and yourself!
THE GIFT FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS EVERYTHING
Every year with my husband and I it's the same question, "What do we get your grandmother?". If you're unsure what to get her, think about a luxurious and functional gift that she needs anyway. This year it's the L'Occitane Hand Cream Set that contains some of the most beautifully scented and formulated hand creams out there. This set has the versatility of being gifted as is or broken up between a few people. Trust me, this is not the kind of gift that will leave her thinking "WTF".
Gift To: Grandmother, mother, aunt, mother-in-law, hostess, coworker and your kids teacher.
THE UNDER $100 GIFT - THE CANDLE
There's something so special about receiving a luxurious candle as a gift and the iconic Jo Malone packaging is almost as good as what's inside. I went for the Wild Bluebell, a light clean floral scent, for my BFF. She's extremely picky and has everything she needs but a luxury candle (from either Jo Malone or Diptyque) always leaves her feeling appreciated. Granted a candle might not be the ideal gift for everyone so make sure it's the kinda thing she would appreciate. I would have preferred it to the bluetooth clock radio my husband got me last year! *LOL*
Gift To: Grandmother, mother, aunt, mother-in-law and BFF.
Consider the travel size candle as a thoughtful hostess gift.
THE $250 GIFT - CASHMERE
This luxe gift should be given to that special lady in your life. It's something every woman will appreciate and not always something she would get herself. Zara has come out with a beautiful cashmere cold weather set just in time for the holidays. The scarf and beanie gift set comes in a colour choice of pale pink and classic tan, packaged in a pretty gift box ready to give. Consider cashmere when wanting to impress.
Gift To: Girlfriend, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother.
In the last few years my friends, family, husband and I have all taken a lighter approach to gift giving. It's more about having fun with smaller budgets and being thoughtful and creative with what we give each other and that's what inspired me to put the above gift guide together. I hope it helps inspire your gift giving this Christmas and makes shopping easier.
** Birds Of A Feather, Butter Avenue & Benefit Cosmetics are PR samples but I offer these suggestions here because I truly love them.
xo, Nathalie
113014 New Classics
I simply adore a classic white button up shirt and have about 5-6 very different styles in my closet. This particular shirt by STUDY-NY is sustainably made in the U.S. from hemp and organic cotton. The texture on this top is so soft that it's almost silky.
The boxy cut on this shirt reminds me of cool refined french women which is why I opted to button it up all of the way to the top and accessorize with a hat.
I paired the white button down shirt with my Mackage leather leggings to add some contrast between the shiny black leather and white sheer top.
Chanel moccasin loafers with a patent leather finish furthers the subtle contrast in the black and white outfit and keeps it from becoming boring.
STYLE TIP: With monochromatic dressing, always consider the textures between each piece. An all cotton black outfit with a matte leather shoes can look dullsville. An all black outfit with patent leather, faux fur and silk thrown in the mix can look fab. Even if shiny shoes and fur is not your jam, consider playing with your textures!
Finally, shout outs to The New Classics for launching their ethical and sustainable online shop! I was notified that my order allowed for them to plant their first tree in Alberta, something they'll be continuing to do. Now how awesome is that for eco fashion?!
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112714 Holiday Gift Guide: His & Hers
Over the next couple of weeks I'll be taking the time to bring you some gift guides based on my favourite items. My first gift guide is the perfect gift for him and her- the Daniel Wellington watch.
My earliest memory of receiving a watch as a gift when was when I was 14 years old. On Christmas day I opened up this little box that contained the most perfect watch I’d ever seen. It was men’s inspired with a navy face, silver bezel and a blue leather strap. My father, who never shops without my mum, had picked it out. I had such a strong sentimental attachment to this watch that I wore it every day, changing the band whenever it broke or just to change the look, until nearly a decade later my boyfriend, now husband, gave me a small silver watch for my birthday. Let's face it, watches are just meant to be gifted don't you think?
The generous folks at DW (thank you Erik and Isabelle) sent my husband and I a lovely little gift – the Classic Bristol watch for him and the Classic Sheffield Lady pour moi. I also received an extra band so the look can be changed without having to buy a whole other watch. Daniel Wellington is all about classic, timeless, modern and elegant. It's the perfect accessory for holiday outfits, office attire and weekend wear.
I’m also happy to share the discount code Holiday_woahstyle, that entitles you to 15% off on all DW products on their site. Bonus - they’re also offering free worldwide shipping and will be delivering in time for the holidays!
On Geoff: Classic Bristol Men's Watch with Rose Gold
On Nathalie: Classic Sheffield Lady Women's Watch with Rose Gold.
Necklace from Lisbeth Jewelry. Bracelet and Ring from Birds Of A Feather.
112614 Givenchy Pandora Review
I fell in love with the Givenchy Pandora a few years ago at the peak of my Alexander Wang obsession. Countless AW items in my collection later, the Pandora was still a faraway flicker on my wish list.
I swear fate brought us together on a windy rainy night. (Seriously!) Not expecting to do any shopping, I popped into the store looking to kill some time. I had just started looking at the handbags when one of them fell on the floor and landed on my feet. (Not even exaggerating. Promise.) I picked it up and there she was - the small Givenchy Pandora in black. I held it close to my body and walked around the store in a haze. I left with my new purchase not sure if I would keep it but after all, that’s what return policies are for!
I took it home and fell in love with in. Everyone on Instagram said “keep it” and so I did. Not only because it’s beautiful but because it’s so lightweight and comfortable to carry. Anyone with an Alexander Wang Rockie, Rocco or Diego knows how heavy bags can be. Carrying a shiny new lightweight Givenchy just felt like a breath of fresh air. The silver hardware is so different from anything I have in my closet and it looked more classic and less urban than what I own. It was meant to be.
This particular Pandora has 4 silver studs in each corner in the front of the bag. The front zippered pocket is excellent for keeping my iPhone and lipstick, basically anything I need quick access to. The zipper on the back of the bag is the main compartment. It’s large enough to hold my Fumo Wallet, cosmetics pouch and Frends headphone. A small interior pocket comes in handy for holding any other small accessories.
What I particularly enjoy about the small Pandora is that it retains its unique rectangular shape well. I had tried on the mini Pandora earlier in the year and I felt it was too small for the price point. I had also tried the medium Pandora and I felt it was too large for my petite frame and the bag quickly lost its shape. I was the Goldilocks of Pandora’s looking for the right one.
Sometimes the wait pays off. I’ve learned from past experiences to be patient and get exactly what you love instead of settling for something else. I’m really happy with my bag and I know I’ll love it for years to come. What’s your current favourite bag and do you have an interesting story of how it came into your life?
112414 The Versatile Shirt
I'm a big fan of versatile clothing - pieces that can be dressed up and dressed down that can be worn year round. Every piece of clothing in my closet serves a purpose and can be worn various ways. That's why I was excited when kor NYC approached me for a collab.
Cyclist Allison Cline, founded kor NYC with the intention of creating athletic clothing that can be worn off bicycle and out for cocktails with the girls. Athletic wear that doesn't look like athletic wear made of high performance fabrics. Based on my personal style and aesthetic, Allison sent me the Unisex Black Muscle tank. (Thank you!) The shirt is made of a silky mesh fabric that is slightly sheer. The perfect addition to my minimal style.
The incredible success of the Alexander Wang x H&M collection is proof that the athletica trend is still going strong. Sure, the designer name has a part in its success but people want sports wear right now. Just look at the line Hood By Air; couture sneakers by Chanel and street style influenced Nike runners donned by fashionistas like Aimee Song. Athletic wear is urban, minimal, contemporary, comfortable and shall I dare say it, fashionable. I'll be wearing my kor tank with cozy knits in the winter, with blazers to the office, with a leather jacket for a relaxed look and with leather shorts in the summer. Oh, and of course on the yoga mat and my bicycle for those 4 times a year I decide to work out. Check out more of the kor NYC collection here.
111914 Top 6 Tips for Shopping Online Sales
Online shopping and scoring major sales are my specialty. With Black Friday just around the corner (eek!) my wish list is done and ready to go.
This week’s style tips will be taken over with online shopping tips, one of my favorite topics! I’m going to tell you how to get exactly what you want this sale season and how to go back for seconds and still get what you want. Here is my top 6 list of Shopping Online Sales.
On the top of my wish list | Acne Studios Black Patent Cleo Sneakers
1. Make A List.
Before becoming overwhelmed with the shiny new selection of markdowns, make a list! Go through your favorite websites ahead of time and make a wish list of your absolute favorite items. Then go through your closet and see what you’re missing – black ankle boots or a basic white button up blouse or maybe a cobalt blue clutch. Stick to your list for a successful round of sale shopping. I like to buy items that are unique and might not be seen again later in the designers collection. For the spring 2014, I scored Helmut Lang perforated oxfords and my 3.1 Phillip Lim white cracked leather mini Ryder bag, both highly coveted items to have sold out quickly. Know what’s in demand, know what you need in your closet and buy what you love.
2. Review Your Return Policies.
Is there anything worse than buyer’s remorse? Before hitting the checkout button online, review the online shop’s return policy, import taxes and free returns policy. Back in the day Shopbop.com was my favourite online destination. They had the selection I was looking for the prices seemed decent. Add in import taxes and exchange rates, I may as well have been paying full price. Granted I will return to Shopbop for exclusive items, but I think twice before shopping on international sites now. My favourite online destination for the last few years has been ssense.com, based out of Montreal, QC. Their designer selection only gets better each season - Isabel Marant, Acne Studios, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Rag & Bone, Saint Laurent Paris, Givenchy, Alexander Wang, etc. They offer free shipping and free returns within Canada pretty much all year round (with exception of sale season) and a 14 day return policy (with exception of final sale items) and excellent customer service. Well done SSENSE. Love you guys!
3. Buy What You Know.
If I’m shopping online I like to stick to the brands and clothing shapes that work for me. Alexander Wang shoes are my staples and I know my size well as are Rag & Bone jeans. When trying on new shapes and experimenting with different brands, I prefer to shop in person. Stick to what works for you when online shopping to avoid frustration and disappointment later. Remember – what looks good on the model may not translate well to your body type. Don’t let those discounted prices take over your reasoning.
4. Subscribe To Newsletters NOW.
I know, I know. We’re all tired of being spammed by companies on the daily but during sale season, you want to be signed up to the newsletters. You’ll get notifications of special discount codes in addition to what’s already on sale (Shopbop does this closer to Xmas) and get notification of when sales are starting and when there are further markdowns. (I’ve experienced SSENSE's site crash in the past during the launch of their sales due to popularity). Be first in that virtual line and get your Alexander Wang boots on sale before they sell out. You snooze, you loose.
5. Search For Coupon Codes & Compare Prices.
Some sites, like SSENSE, offer price matching on same items. It’s worth having a look around other sites make sure you’re getting the best possible price. With that being said, also do a quick google search for words like “coupon code” or “discount code” on your favourite online shop.
6. Going Back For Seconds.
My personal sale shopping strategy is so simple – make a list and buy what you have been coveting all season long first. Then when the further markdowns hit – go back for seconds and once more, stick to what you need and what you love. Last season I was debating between a pair of floral or nude Givenchy sandals on sale. I concluded the nude would be classic and last longer in my wardrobe than the floral but I didn’t buy them right away. The waiting game paid off as a couple of weeks later I ended up scoring them at an even deeper discount (this is when you want to be signed up to your newsletters).
The reality. Of course I don’t buy everything I want during sale season! That would be madness. I save up for the sales and sell some of my items to give myself a nice clothing “allowance”. I’ve also missed out on some amazing goodies in the past and the Marni silver and pony hair loafers from seasons ago still haunt my dreams!
I hope this guide helps you through sale season. Are there any strategy that works for you? Let me know, I’d love to learn how to shop smarter!
My Top 3 Favourite Items To Buy On Sale
1. JEANS
The markup on jeans borders on obscene. I like to stock up on my Jbrand’s and Rag & Bone’s when they’re on sale. Granted I will pay full price on occasion but for the most part I much rather not.
2. SHOES
I love shoes and I swear I inherited my love of flats from my mother. The most basic of outfits can be elevated with the right foot wear. For the in demand styles I pay full price but otherwise I wait for the sales.
3. HANDBAGS
Nothing makes an outfit better than carrying a stylish bag. Again, pay full price for the in demand styles and leave the rest up to fate and score it on sale if you can. My favorite spots for buying bags are SSENSE and the Outnet. They always carry a good selection of Alexander Wang.
111314 Hats Complete Me
Somewhere along the way I've become totally accessories obsessed. What used to be limited to footwear and handbags has now spilled over glasses, watches and hats. My personal style is pretty minimal and as are my accessories and yet I can't seem to leave the house without a hat on my head these days. During the summer I said that it was to protect my face from the suns rays. Now that it's chillier, it's to keep my head warm. But really, I feel a hat just completes my look and that's okay too!
I'M WEARING: Target wool hat | Aritzia Jacoby salt and pepper wool coat | Comme des Garçons PLAY white shirt | Acne Studios skirt | Alexander Wang black leather Rocco with rose gold hardware and black ankle boots | Chanel aubergine frames with clear arms | Daniel Wellington Watch
Photograph by Diana Aldea
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My favourite hats of the season (from left to right)
Forever 21 Floppy Wool Hat, $20 | Topshop Blue Fedora, $49 | Topshop Classic Black Fedora, $49 | Janessa Leone Gabrielle Bolero, $165 | Maison Michel Andre Gray Fedora, $440
111114 Daniel Wellington, Visual Watch Review
Around the time I started blogging and IG'ing, I began seeing these very cool minimal, yet classic, watches all over people's feeds. The brand, Daniel Wellington. I feel lucky enough to have been gifted a watch by the company themselves. (Thank you DW!!!)
I've photographed all of the details for you here so consider this your visual review. From the simple cream coloured box, to the minimal white watch face with rose gold hands and bezel, I promise this watch is much more impactful in person than it is in photos. I was also happy to discover that the leather strap is perfect for my tiny wrists without having to puncture any additional holes, a rare occurance for me.
Oh and of course, the obligatory Daniel Wellington discount code for all of you, my follow subscribers is: woahstyle. The code entitles you to 15% off all DW products on their site until the end of November.
And in case you're curious, my watch is called the Classic St. Andrews Lady. I opted for the rose gold finish for that added touch of elegance.
111014 Dissecting the WoahStyle
Killer accessories make an outfit. That and well fitting clothes with good tailoring. Regardless of trends and body type, these are the fundamentals for excellent style. I've decided to start a new article on the blog that dissects my personal style and how you can apply these rules to your own style using your existing closet and a little bit of imagination. I'll tell you why I mix textures and colours and how to become a pro in dressing quickly.
My daily uniform is all about jeans and a t-shirt. Unless I'm going to an event, I really don't think too much about what I'm going to wear. My previous post, Shades of Black, is a perfect example. Strip away the layers and I'm wearing a black tank and black distressed denim. The Rag & Bone jeans are excellent for my petite frame and since I can't commit to having them hemmed, I simply cuff them. The black Oak + Fort tank is loose and drapey and sits away from the body so that it doesn't appear that I'm wearing a leotard from afar.
Layered over top of the tank is my Mackage cropped leather jacket. The leather adds warmth on a cold day and most importantly adds contrast, texture and breaks up the black tones.
STYLE TIP: When shopping for jackets always look at the shoulders, even if the rest of the jacket appears to fit your body. A well fitting shoulder will lie flat with end of your shoulder meeting the end of the jacket shoulder. Shoulder bunching means the jacket is too small while too much shoulder fabric means the jacket is too big. Use the size on the label only as a guide and let the shoulders tell you the truth. Now how many times can you say shoulder?!
I chose my black patent leather Chanel Moccasin loafers to lighten up the look and keep it from getting too heavy. The shoe also adds some femininity to an otherwise tough outfit. The classic loafers are comfortable for walking around in the city but also make a big impact with the shiny leather and signature CC's.
Colour comes into play with my purplish-blue Alexander Wang Diego bag and my brown French Connection Trilby Hat. The black band around the hat unites the black in the rest of the outfit, connecting the look head to toe. The tones in the accessories are in the same colour family meaning the entire look is pretty seamless for a relaxed noir look.
When getting dressed, look for unique sharp pieces that will stand out on their own or layered into your outfit. Find a "uniform" that works for you and layer into it with those killer accessories. And remember, well fitting clothes are the key. Regardless of how much your jeans cost, they'll only look amazing if they fit your body type well.
Thanks for reading!
xo, Nathalie
I'M WEARING: French Connection Trilby hat | Mackage Mary A leather jacket | Oak + Fort tank | Rag & Bone distressed skinny jeans | Chanel Moccasin patent leather loafers | Alexander Wang Diego buck bag with brass detailing | Salvatore Ferragamo black frames
First Photograph by Chantal Li | Flat lays by Nathalie Shible Martin
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