Girl in The Green Jacket
I kept this look simple with my favourite Rag & Bone jeans and this inexpensive Forever 21 halter top that I got during the summer. The suede emerald green moto jacket breaks up all of the black and adds a nice hint of colour. Even though I ditched the handbag here, my accessory game always has to be strong so I wore my new Sandro Paris boots, an amazing sale find at Winners. Have you guys visited their Runway section? I swear it's hit or miss but I've found the most incredible pieces there. As for the hat, it's another cheapie find from Target back when it used to be in Canada. It's a little bittersweet but as is life. I acquired all of the pieces from this outfit in the last year. It just goes to show that when you buy strong basics, they'll withstand trends and seasons.
WHAT I'M WEARING: Obey suede moto jacket with buckle. Forever 21 halter top. Rag & Bone skinny jeans. Sandro Paris leather and suede black ankle boots. Target wool hat. Armani sunglasses. Felony Case Kaleidoscope X Clear iPhone 6 plus case.
Fall Skincare Routine With Seabuckthorn
I think it's as important to change your skincare for the changing climate as it is to update your wardrobe. In fashion we're always talking about clothes, light layering for fall, even more layering for winter yet we don't always discuss our beauty routine.
A good moisturizer is something you should never be without and in fact it was the Anti-Aging cream that convinced me that I didn't need a fancy label or high ticket price tag to get a good quality product. In the mornings I add an SPF to this and at night I use it straight up. I also like using this one on my chest. Yes, I'm talking boobies. I remember reading an article in Vogue about this woman who would slather moisturizer on her chest every morning and night. Apparently even late into her 60's she had wonderful skin so I started doing the same. I find my skin is incredibly sensitive in that area and SBT is one of the only moisturizers that doesn't break me out.
Lip balm is a no brainer when we're talking about cold weather beauty. I wear it under lipstick, over lipstick and sans lipstick when I'm at home. I like to have a couple of tubes with me all of the time because I always leave them behind somewhere. I'm also a good wifey and stock up my hubby with his own tubes since he's always asking for mine. Perhaps that last one is more of a selfish act though... Speaking of balms, SBT has a unique product called the Sniffle Stick that I love more than anything. Think of it as a balm with peppermint oils that help relieve your sinuses when you apply it. I find it incredibly soothing and like to use it year round.
A therapeutic shampoo during the cold weather is something I discovered last year. I tried the Peppermint Shampoo which helped with the dryness on my scalp. It also helped me wake up in the morning since the oils have a cooling sensation. The Lavender shampoo and conditioner also contain peppermint but primarily have lavender oils, which are soothing. Of all of the natural, sulphate free shampoo's I've tried, these ones are my faves and I'd highly recommend them. My hubby really likes these too and I know he was excited to have them back in our shower.
A new and interesting product that arrived in my care package was the 3 In 1 Shampoo Bar. I love the concept of this product, especially for travel (low maintenance and carry 1 product for face, body and hair) but I was a bit skeptical at first. I have A LOT of hair and I didn't think I'd be able to rather up properly a bar of soap. To my surprise it did its job well and it was fun washing my hair with it. I think I'll leave this one to my hubby though as he liked it more and I prefer my therapeutic shampoo.
Speaking of bars, I was thrilled to see SBT update the packaging on their soap to read, "non GMO, gluten free, cruelty free, eco friendly, soy free". Their Cleansing Bar is a favourite of mine since it's gentle on the skin, perfect for cold weather months. You can use this on your entire body and it's also suitable to use on the face. It's good for normal to dry skin, people with rosacea and sensitive skin. My skin is oily/ dry and this one works well for me too. Basically if you have skin, try this!
Salves are something I'm just getting into. I like to slather them on my hands, heels, elbows and knees, basically anywhere that I need extra moisture. SBT makes their normal salve full of nursing seabuckthorn oils and they also make a Soothing Salve for muscle and joints. True story, the soothing balm became my best friend recently when I injured my knees and heels while running.
Finally, who doesn't love tea during the cold months? SBT makes a nice herbal tea high in protein. I like to drink my tea at night before going to bed. Something about it is very settling to the stomach and relaxing to the whole body. Try it and let me know what you think.
To wrap this up here's a quick backstory on the SBT Seabuckthorn brand: they are based out of British Columbia where they grow and harvest the seabuckthorn berries on their facilities. They're very environmentally conscious which is why they've begun phasing out the use of palm oils in their products. Products are made in house and are 100% natural.
5 Blogging Tips for Beginners
Like so many other bloggers out there, I'm passionate about what I document. In my instance it's fashion, beauty and food. I'm always excited to share my new findings with you guys. I look forward to reading your comments and sharing tips and getting tips back (like stretching your shoes if they're too small). I've been at this for about a year and a half now and it's been such an amazing ride so far. I've met some incredible people along the way, bloggers and fans alike, and I've worked with some wonderful brands that I never could have fathomed working with in my wildest dreams. I'm so grateful for all of my opportunities and I know I got there because I've worked hard and paved my own way. My advice to any newbie bloggers goes like this:
- Stay true to yourself. Find your voice, embrace the fact that you're unique and ride that wave!
- Network like a mofo. Social media is such an excellent platform for meeting peers and making friends. Plus, you never know what brands are watching you as you grow. Chances are they'll add you to their list of influencers. You might be surprised.
- Be consistent in posting on social media and your blog and watch your numbers grow.
- Be gracious. Say thank you, please and share those positive vibes.
- Lastly, don't buy followers, not even for a boost when you're starting off. I've learned from my followers along the way and they've helped me get to where I am now.
WHAT I'M WEARING: Zara army jacket and patchwork jeans. Doll Memories black t-shirt. Alexander Wang oxford lace ups. Marc By Marc Jacobs striped mini bag. TOMS glasses.
Larsson & Jennings
This watch has been on my radar for some time now. Welcoming into my closet pre-fall feels like perfection in itself. The brand, Larsson & Jennings. Makers of minimalist, luxurious watches that are handmade and Swiss made. The watch is called Läder, in the black and gold combo. Trust me when I say it's even more lust worthy in person. The watch is unisex although straps come in small and large sizes - important to mention for ladies with tiny wrists, such as myself. I love how it pairs nicely against this grey waffle knit sweater but I'm tempted to start a new trend - rolling up one sleeve just to show off my Läder. Have you guys ever been smitten with a watch or am I alone on this?
WHAT I'M WEARING: Larsson & Jennings Läder watch in black. Aritzia Leclerc Sweater. Mackage leather leggings and cropped moto jacket. Isabel Marant Angie boots. Saint Laurent Paris Nano Sac De Jour. OST New York ring. Urban Planet sunglasses.
Parisian Style in The Secret Garden
If you read my last post you'll know that I recently teamed up with Love That Bag, Canada's largest consignment online shop, to talk shopping and to #streetstyle a couple of their handbags. Today it's all about the beautiful vintage Chanel bag you've been seeing on my IG. The details on this bag are even better in person. The leather has a subtle metallic glimmer, matte gold hardware and, a multicoloured jewel encrusted CC's. It reminds me of when I first fell in love with fashion in the 90s' yet it inspired me to style the bag in a more contemporary way. The striped Zara top has extra long sleeves with a cute little zipper in the back so I feel it's more special than the usual striped top. The black jeans, also Zara, happen to have just the right amount of distressed detail. I paired them with my black Chanel loafers because you know, how else was I going to nail that chic Parisian style? Finally you'll notice a change of scenery from my typical minimal background, we shot this at Gairloch Gardens in Oakville, right by the lake. I think the outfit not only inspired me, but also my photographer (aka, the hubby). Of course it helps when you have a little yellow Chanel flap bag to blog about! ;)
PS - Yes I took my soy milk Chai latte for a stroll and it was good!
WHAT I'M WEARING: Chanel Precious Jewel Mini Flap Bag in Yellow Lambskin from Love That Bag (exact bag here). Zara striped top and black jeans. Chanel patent leather loafers. Armani sunglasses.
POP UP SHOP ALERT!
Love That Bag will have pop-up sale in Montreal , at the nail salon, Barbarella at 3833 rue Saint Jacques.
Dates / Hours:
September 17 & 18: 10 AM - 9 PM
September 19: 10 AM - 6 PM
They will have a selection of bags from their website available for purchase and they'll be looking at bags that people want to sell. Make sure you stop by if you're in the area!
HOW TO: SHOP LUXURY CONSIGNMENT
I've been asked a few times why it is that I mainly write positive reviews on my blog. Well, I'll tell you why. It's because I chose to feature products and brands that I'm passionate about, therefore excited to share with you guys. Makes sense right?
My latest review is from one of Canada's largest online consignment shops called Love That Bag. They're proudly Canadian, based out of Montreal and specialize in luxury handbags. I worked with them on this story to show you guys how to style classic luxury handbags, like the beautiful Louis Vuitton Monogram Pochette and, to educate you guys on shopping consignment and how to make it the best possible experience ever!
6 REASONS TO BUY YOUR LUXURY HANDBAG THROUGH CONSIGNMENT
- LOWER PRICES THAN MARKET VALUE because the designer handbags up for sale are pre-owned. You can save anywhere from a couple hundred to a couple thousand off the original price.
- RARE BAGS WILL EVENTUALLY SURFACE. We all have a story about the bag that got away. Mine is the Alexander Wang Marina bag. I once tracked it down through online consignment but I wasn't confident in the seller and therefore never purchased it. If it ever shows up through Love That Bag, it'll be mine!
- EXCELLENT SELCTION. The women of the world who are always buying the latest and greatest bags are the ones selling to LTB which means we get a fresh pick of current bags that are in fabulous condition! (Currently on my radar, the Chanel Black Velvet Mini Boy Bag. #todiefor!)
- WORRY FREE SHOPPING. When I was younger I foolishly bought a rare MBMJ dress on eBay only to find out it was a fake. I filed a complaint but nothing ever came of it and every time I looked at the imposter dress in my closet, I became enraged. I couldn't wear it and I could't resell it so I donated it to a thrift shop and called it a loss. There are a lot of fakes in the market and it's important to shop at a place that prides themselves in providing authentic designer goods.
- LOOKING GOOD! An excellent consignment shop is selective about the condition of the bags they carry which means preloved doesn't have to look second hand. I borrowed two bags from LTB and both of them are in superb condition and came accompanied with dust bags. (BTW - I should mention they don't lend out bags but made an exception for me here. Thank you!)
- THE EXCITEMENT! Part of the fun is the thrill of discovery and not knowing what you're going to find.
WORD TO THE WISE: I can't stress enough how important it is to buy from a reputable place like Love That Bag. I once bought a Celine Trio bag from a Toronto online consignment shop for the first and last time ever. When my bag arrived in the mail, I was appalled to see it was shipped in one of these plastic envelopes without the slightest bit of tissue around the bag to protect it. Yes the bag was authentic, but sadly it was in poor shape and didn't look like the beautiful bag online. To top it off, I realized after that they had charged me in USD so the bag cost me more than I had anticipated.
That experience obviously burned me. I want to make sure that you guys don't go through what I did and have a fun shopping expierince. I hope my How To guide helped!
xo, Nathalie
WHAT I'M WEARING: Louis Vuitton Monogram Pochette from Love That Bag (exact bag here). Aritzia Lin Sweater. Acne Studios black band skirt. 3.1 Phillip Lim Page Loafers. Thursday/ Friday black & white pompom. Armani sunglasses.
POP UP SHOP ALERT!
Love That Bag will have pop-up sale in Montreal , at the nail salon, Barbarella at 3833 rue Saint Jacques.
Dates / Hours:
September 17 & 18: 10 AM - 9 PM
September 19: 10 AM - 6 PM
They will have a selection of bags from their website available for purchase and they'll be looking at bags that people want to sell. Make sure you stop by if you're in the area!
August Beauty Faves
I realize this list of August faves is a bit late, but better late than never, so let's get to it! If there's anything anything I could recommend to you guys right away it's the Lancôme City Miracle CC Cream. It's (near) perfection! Read on for the full review!
REAL TECHNIQUES MAKEUP BRUSHES
They're durable and super affordable which is nice because otherwise I might still be paying $50 for the brushes at Sephora. You gotta admit, the cost of brushes can be pretty absurd. I have a few expensive ones in my collection and honestly, the synthetic ones can do just as good of a job. Here are my recommends: a small setting brush to help set concealer under your eye by dusting on just the smallest amount of powder. Also, a multi-purpose stippling brush is excellent. I use mine to apply foundation but in the past I've used it for bronzer and for blending.
TOO FACED PRIMED & PORELESS PRESSED POWDER
In the morning I use MAC's Prep + Prime to set my makeup. It's not my fave but I'm trying to use it up. For events and photo's I use the amazing (seriously amazing!) Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder. I needed a white pressed powder to keep in my handbag for mid-day touch up's so I picked up Too Faced Primed & Powerless. Like other white powders, this is colourless and gives that nice blur affect when you apply it to your skin. I've used it as a primer and as a setting powder and I really like how light and airy it is. I apply mine with a powder brush instead of the powder puff it comes with for a softer, more natural finish.
LANCÔME CITY MIRACLE CC CREAM
I really like this CC cream because it looks natural, dewy and wears well throughout the day. Even the colour, 02 Peau De Peche, looks good on my olive skin. The formula is rich and creamy which means that it wears well, but on the other hand it's not my favourite formula to apply with my fingers. That's why I use a stippling brush to blend it into my skin because I can't stand getting my hands mucked up with makeup. My only real complaint with this CC cream is with the smell. It has a strange perfume scent that I could do without. I'll never understand why makeup and skincare companies ruin a perfectly good product with stupid smells.
BUXOM TRUE NUDE LIP FOUNDATION
Finally a nude lipstick that I actually like! I bought this lippie in the colour Au Naturel, a cinnamon pink colour, according to Sephora. It's flattering on olive skin and creates a nice balance of colour on my face when I want to focus my makeup more on the eyes. The formula is thick and I find that I don't really need a lip liner when wearing this. It has impressive staying power but after wearing it for too long, I find it can start to dry a little and look cakey which is why I like to top if off with a lip balm.
CONSONANT NATURAL ORGANIC LIP CONDITIONER
It's natural, organic and, feels really good on the lips. What else do you want? Just go get it!
My pouch is by the Australian brand, Status Anxiety. I use mine as a makeup pouch or as a wallet.
Frayed Edges
I must have tried on six different pairs of jeans at Zara this past weekend but only these ones here fit me perfectly. They're cropped which means that for once I don't have to roll them up and they hug my legs nicely. The frayed edges of this shirt caught my eye immediately. It reminds me a bit of burlap, which is weird I know, because no one wants to wear burlap. I just love the half sleeves on it because it's perfect for summer/fall transition weather and it makes the top look more chic. Finally, an all black outfit can sometimes call for a pop of colour and these Valentino Rockstuds where just begging to be worn. I paired it with my Givenchy Bambi pouch because it picks up the colour on the shoe nicely to tie it all in. What can I tell you guys? Invest in good accessories to make a $100 outfit come to life. Trust me, you can't go wrong!
PS - the glasses are from Old Navy! ;)
NEW FALL FRAGRANCE: I AM JUICY COUTURE
When I think about fall I think about a fresh start and as seasons change, we crave something new. Crisp weather, moto jackets, boots, layers, cozy knits and a perfume are a great way to refresh. We are all familiar with the idea of updating our fall wardrobes, but as the seasons change it's a great time to update our perfume.
Juicy Couture's new fragrance, I AM JUICY COUTURE is a rich, bold and enticing fragrance that's perfect for this season and beyond. While it's not quite fall here in Toronto, I find myself wearing it often as the summer winds down. This fragrance embodies me and my personal style. It's fragrant without being overbearing, and it makes a refined and sophisticated statement. You can grab the latest Juicy scent at Hudson’s Bay and TheBay.com.
My tradition has always been to kickoff my fall inspiration with the September issues of Vogue, Elle and Harper’s Baazar. This year I’m doing things a little differently and I’m gathering my inspo from real people, my peers on Instagram and bloggers around the globe. I’ll often look to Pinterest and Tumblr for inspiration. Usually I pre-plan every season with wish lists, but this year, I want to have a more organic approach to my fall wardrobe and just see where my mood takes me.
For the first time in a long time, I’ll be doing more in-person shopping instead of hitting up the online retailers. I’ve been shopping online for so many years now that I need a change. I want to go back to trying things on in the store, touching fabrics, trying on a new perfume, smearing a new eye shadow on the back of my hand. You know, just going back to interacting in person. Last time I was at Hudson’s Bay I became so enamored with the Marc by Marc Jacobs collection that I ended up getting a couple of handbags, a wallet, an iPad case and a laptop case, for the laptop I didn’t even have yet. I’m totally aware that it’s a bit overboard but I have some crazy shopping habits!
Next time you’re at Hudson’s Bay make sure to swing by the perfume counter and try Juicy Couture I AM JUICY COUTURE. I hope you guys love it as much as I do!
