"Fashions fade, style is eternal." - YSL

I went shopping with Geoff and my mum this weekend at a very popular Canadian department store. I won't say who, because it's not relevant to this story and I feel like this could happen anywhere. The story goes like this, after hubby and my mum finish their shopping, it's my turn to drag them to the contemporary section. I consider myself to be an "in-and-out" kinda shopper because I always know what pieces I need to fill the gaps in my closet. Also, in my opinion there's nothing more annoying than being stuck in that "I have nothing to wear" scenario, which is why I often shop ahead, or off-season, if I see something that I love. 

Back in the store, I grab a few pieces from The Kooples autumn collection to try on. I fell in love with a pretty floral dress in aubergine coloured silk, with long sleeves and a secretary bow around the neckline. My mum, being the beautiful woman she is, was going to buy me the dress for my birthday, which isn't until the end of December. (Seriously guys, I like to shop ahead!) Long story short, the dress has a blemish on it that needed the attention of a dry cleaner, so I decided not to take it. Here's when shit got funny. I mentioned to the SA that I'd just stop by The Kooples outlet and look for something there. She responds with "You won't find this dress there because they only carry stuff from past seasons". Um, no kidding!

A trip to the outlet means I have more selection to choose from and I can also score a good deal. Dare I tell her that a majority of what I'm wearing in this post is from past seasons? Because I really could care less. And like Yves Saint Laurent once famously said "Fashions fade, style is eternal." 

xo, Nathalie

WHAT I'M WEARING
TOMS, Bellevue Tortoise sunglasses.
Jenny Bird, Moondrop Ear Cuff. (ltd. edish)
Boluva, men's watch in rose gold.
Felony, iPhone 6+ Kaleidoscope case in rose gold.
Mackage, Rubie mini cross body.
Giuseppe Zanotti, combat boots.
Equipment, cashmere sweater.
The Kooples, leather jacket with buckle.
Zara, jeans.
Nyx, lip pencil in Auburn. 

Simplified Skincare with SkinOwl

Guys, I had terrible skin growing up. Part of it is probably because I was using terrible products. I bought into the advertising and tried chemical-laden products that were doing way more harm than any good. That's why I now gravitate towards natural products and am vigilant about supporting brands that are made with quality ingredients. 

When SkinOwl reached out and asked me if I wanted to try their Beauty Drops, I was very excited. I'd read articles about using oils to replace moisturizer and thought it was an interesting concept. 

SkinOwl's Beauty Drops are designed to replace your moisturizer AND serum, which is a huge time saver. They're also made with raw, organic ingredients which is a plus. Smell is so important when it come to skincare and the scent of the Beauty Drops is not overwhelming - it's very natural and pleasant. Their Beauty Drops come in three formulations: Lavender (for oily/sensitive skin), Geranium (for combo/uneven skin) and Clary Sage (for aging/tired skin).

I was originally sent the Lavender Beauty Drops, since I generally have oily skin. However, as the seasons changed, my skin became dry. They also sent me the Geranium, since it suited my needs better. You need to use 10 drops every morning and evening and it'll moisturize and nourish your skin. After a week of using it religiously, my BFF Diana asked me if I was sleeping more, which is her way of saying my skin looks good. I gave the Lavender drops to my husband Geoff since he has oily skin and he likes it. He was in a rush this morning and didn't use it - he said that he definitely felt a difference. He said his skin didn't feel as good and he thinks this is something he can see himself using regularly. 

SkinOwl also sent me their eye+ which is for the area under your eyes. It feels great on, and like Diana said, I look like I'm sleeping better - maybe it's because I've been using this?

If you love natural skincare and are looking to simplify your routine, check out skinowl.com for their full assortment of products.

xo, Nathalie

Disclaimer: These products were provided by Skin Owl, but I keep it real. I wouldn't recommend something to my readers that I didn't like. Friends don't lie to friends. 

Review: October Birchbox

Happy Halloween guys! Hope you're all having a great weekend so far. Sorry I'm a bit late on posting October's Birchbox. I just got it recently and I haven't had the opportunity to post it until now.

I'm pretty excited about this box because it's full of goodies that I've been wanting to try - Eyeko mascara and Egyptian Magic cream. Also, I'm excited to announce that I'll be giving away a box to one lucky IG follower in Canada. The winner will get the same box I'm reviewing here. To enter, just follow the instructions on my IG post. Good luck!

xo, 
Nathalie

OCTOBER BIRCHBOX FIRST IMPRESSIONS

• UICE BEAUTY GREEN APPLE PEEL SENSITIVE
  SAMPLE SIZE: 7.8ml
  There's probably enough use for about 4-6 face peels in here. At first I thought it was going to be one of those products that solidify on the face and then peel off, but that's not what this product is since it has a watery texture. Apply it to the face for 10 mins and then rinse off to reveal a brighter complexion. I tried it on the back of my hand while I did this review and I can't wait to try it on my face. Juice Beauty makes all natuaural organic skincare and this Green Apple Peel is one of their top sellers. 
   
• EYEKO BLACK MAGIC MASCARA
  SAMPLE SIZE: 4ml
  I'm so excied to see Eyeko Mascara in my Birchbox. This mascara comes highly rated. I've always wanted to try it and I just never knew where to get it. It's water water-resistant, curls and adds volume. Hopefully it doesn't smudge or clump. I'll update you guys in a later review. 
   
• PARLOUR BY JEFF CHASTAIN MOISTURIZING & REPARING SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER
  SAMPLE SIZE: 30ml (shampoo) and 12ml (conditioner)
  First impression: This shampoo smells really nice!!! Actually, it almost smells like green apples. I didn't smell the conditioner since it's in a sealed packet so I'll just have to wait until I take it with me on a trip. There's probably enough product for about 2 uses in these. The Birchbox card says they're lightweight, sulfate-free and nutrient rich.
   
• VASANTI COSMETICS ALL STAR 2-IN-1 FACE & FACE PRIMER
  SAMPLE SIZE: 5ml
  Diana, my BFF, tells me that Vasanti is a Canadian brand. This face primer feels lightweight and smooth when I swatched it on the back of my hand. I'm a bit primer-obsessed at the moment, and I have about 3 of them in my makeup collection, so I'm looking forward to trying this. 
   
• EGYPTIAN MAGIC ALL-PURPOSE SKIN CREAM
  SAMPLE SIZE: 0.25 fl oz
  For years, I've been hearing that this stuff is incredible. It's all natural, and it's got a multitude of uses - it can be used as a moisturizer, to help heal burns and for treating cuts and scrapes. Diana's mom has eczema and she bought it for her a few years ago. She said it's incredibly emollient and is unscented. My hands are really dry from the cold weather, and this feels amazing on. 

BIRCHBOX IS MARVIN APPROVED   ｡＾・ｪ・＾｡

Fall Must Have: Black Leather Moto Jacket

I'm not embarrassed to say that I've been wearing this little leather jacket with everything recently. I picked it up at The Kooples recently. I had originally gone in looking for a little black dress and instead, I came out with this jacket and fringe bag. I figured, I work really hard, at my day job and with the blog, so I treated myself to a little something special. The thing is, I don't mind spending money on a jacket or a bag as long as I love it and get plenty of wear from my pieces. Considering the bag was highly photographed during fashion week, and that I've been wearing the jacket non-stop, I'd say I might the right choice in investing in these pieces for fall. Now, what's on your must have list this season?

xo, Nathalie

WHAT I'M WEARING
The Kooples leather jacket and fringe bag.
MinkPink floral smock dress (gifted).
Sandro Paris black ankle boots.
Armani sunglasses.

Feature: Roztayger #streetstyle

Hi guys! In case you didn't catch it, today is a double post day and I published my most recent skincare review, with kaia naturals, under the Beauty page this afternoon. Make sure you check it out if you haven't already. I'm thinking of doing a few of these double post for the next while just to help me catch up on reviews and some other exciting things that I want to share with you! In the meanwhile, let's get down to my latest fashion collab with Roztayger.com.

If you're a blogger and you're reading this, you'll know there's a lot that goes on before any collaboration or sponsored post goes live. Elizabeth Jeffer, buyer and owner of online shop Roztayger.com, reached out to me with the intention of a collaboration but after countless emails and a really warm phone conversation, she feels like a new friend. 

Roztayger is a carefully curated online shop for women and men. They carry limited quantities of brands that Elizabeth finds through her travels around the world. One of the items she recommended for me are these Le Yucca's brogues that she discovered while in Europe. While there, she first wore her shoes all around the city and claimed them to be the most comfortable shoes ever. You know what? They are! I work for a TV station and my days are spilt between the office and being in the studio. I first wore my Le Yucca's on a day where I had to attend WMCFW after an 8 hour work day. I was physically and mentally drained from a long work week but my feet remained happy and comfortable. I went for the brown pair because I like subtle contrast when I get dressed and I have so many black shoes already, so these are really special. Le Yucca's are made in Bologna, Italy.

The crisp white shirt I'm wearing in this post is from a brand called Crippen. It's designed by Susie Crippen, founder of Jbrand. (Only one of my favourite denim lines ever!) What drew me to this top is that it's a classic white shirt yet it's unconventional, in that it's not exactly a button down and has a very modern oversized shape. I can see myself wearing this with leather leggings easily, but for this post I felt compelled to style it with a creme coloured mini. I already know that I'm going to get a lot of wear from this piece.

I can't wait to show you guys other ways to dress these beautiful pieces! Oh, did you read my Off Duty post featuring that modern cut backpack? It's also from Roztayger. Not bad right? Make sure you check them out!

Roztayger.com is having a sale* right now featuring 20% off all black items, with code "blackout". Excluded designers are Tsatsas,  Le Yucca’s, Lotuff Leather and PB 0110. 

*Sale ends Nov. 1 at midnight.

xo, Nathalie

Review: kaia naturals face wipes

Skincare is really important to me and I was really excited when kaia naturals asked if I wanted to try their line of products. They’re a proudly Canadian company, which is awesome because I always love supporting home-grown brands. Also, all of their products are made with natural ingredients, are non-toxic, 100% biodegradable and cruelty-free.

When it comes to beauty and skincare products, I always ask best friend Diana’s opinion. She’s been obsessed with health and beauty products since we were kids and is incredibly picky. She also has sensitive skin, so she’s very selective.

kaia naturals was kind enough to send us their entire lineup, so we’ve been trying their products for a little while. We sat down this weekend to discuss our experience with each item. 

JUICY BAMBO NATURAL FACIAL CLEANSING CLOTHS

Nathalie: The packaging is just adorable. I actually gave some of these to Geoff to use at home and he loves them. He doesn’t always like washing his face, but knows how important it is. This makes it so much easier. He uses them in the morning and evening. I like the fact it’s soaked with vitamins and it’s actually good for your skin.

Diana: I love the individually wrapped cloths for the gym. I don’t wear a lot of makeup, but I still don’t like working out with any of it on. I find that it breaks me out. This cleansed my skin, but it didn’t feel tight, just nice and clean.

Nathalie: I like it for that too. It's rare that the smell of skincare doesn't bother me and I really didn't mind the scent of these. I particularly liked the fact that it’s made with jojoba oil and essential oils. It’s also really neat that you can put the cloths in compost after using them, since they’re made with bamboo fibers and they’ll biodegrade. 

BAMBOO TAPIOCA BEADS DAILY EXFOLIATOR POWDER

Diana: This was really cool. I use Clinique Men’s scrub, but it can be harsh and it’s not ideal for everyday use. I have a feeling I’ll be using this regularly, since it can be used daily. I have allergies and blow my nose often, which leaves the skin on my nose and upper lip dry. Helps get rid of those tiny, annoying skin flakes.

Nathalie: I loved this. I especially loved the fact that it works as cleanser, exfoliator or mask. Apparently this type of product is huge in Japan.

Diana: Yes! It’s cool that you can use it with water, oil or green tea. It’s pretty simple to use, and it even comes with that cute wooden spoon so you can measure product.  

Nathalie: I wear a lot of makeup for photoshoots, so using it with oil was awesome. It was very effective. And I love that it’s made with natural ingredients – it’s made with coconut and chickpeas, which is awesome.

If you’re in the GTA, you can find the Juicy Bamboo Cleansing Cloths at The Bay – Bay/Queen location & online at TheBay.com as of November 16th. 

The Bamboo Tapioca Beads are available at kaianaturals.com and with the code: woahstyle, you’ll receive free shipping when purchasing 2 boxes of Juicy Bamboo on kaianaturals.com.

Disclaimer: This product was kindly provided by kaia naturals, but all opinons are my own.

Off Duty

Post fashion week, all I want to do is chill in comfy clothes. These cozy layers are keeping me warm yet functional as I get back to real life - shopping for groceries, new tires for the car and going to Costco for the 50 lb. box of kitty litter. It was just the kind of weekend I needed after a week of heels, glitter and faux fur. Thank goodness normal clothes!

xo, Nathalie

WHAT I'M WEARING
Bonastre Black Backpack from Roztayger.
Frank & Eileen, red & blue plaid flannel shirt.
Lacoste, Baylen fleeced lined leather boots. (F/W 2015)
Chaser tank.
Lisbeth star necklace.
Dean Davidson pendant.
Rag & Bone zippered moto jeans.

Fashion Week: The Shirt Dress + The Bump

There must be something in the air recently, because pretty much everyone I've been talking to recently has had the weirdest stream of bad luck. Present company included. While getting ready for the Mackage show and private dinner last night, I had a freakish accident and opened the medicine drawer in my bathroom, right onto my forehead! It hurt like crazy!!! Before I knew it, the spot swelled up to the size of a golf ball. Now just imagine me, holding ice to the bump with one hand and desperately trying to finish my makeup with the other.

I ended up wearing a hat that night to conceal the bump on my head, which meant my entire outfit changed at the last minute. While I didn't wear the whole outfit you see here, I did wear the Mackage leather leggings in honour of their SS16 collection. As for the shirt dress in this post, it's a gift from the wonderful team at Frank & Eileen. Their button ups are soft and luxurious and they're the perfect compliment for my edgy-basics. (Thank you F&E!)

Oh, and about that bump on my head, it's now a 2-inch red mark that's still sore. I haven't decided wether or not I'm wearing a hat for the last day of fashion week tomorrow, but I do know that I need to chill out and try to take things one step at a time. 

WHAT I'M WEARING
Frank & Eileen Mary shirt dress.
Lisbeth Jewelry necklaces in Lia and Layla.
Mackage leather leggings.
The Kooples leather jacket.
3.1 Phillip Lim ankle boots.
Givenchy small black Pandora.
Old Navy sunglasses.

 

A Black & White Fashion Week

World MasterCard Fashion Week is amongst us which means chaos and madness in my eyes. I'm sure anyone who attends fashion week in any city, knows how exhausting it can really be. All of that aside, it really can be fun! I love catching up with my blogging buddies and seeing what everyone is wearing. I mean, isn't that really why we're all there?

For Day 1, I wore the outfit in this post except with a twist. Instead of the black Sandro boots, I wore my pink glitter Saint Laurent Paris ankle booties. I'm inclined to think they were a big hit because my feet have never been photographed so much in my life! 

For anyone attending, I hope you all have a fun week! And if you see me around, say hi, I'd love to meet you guys!

xo, Nathalie

WHAT I'M WEARING
Status Anxiety Delilah Snow Leopard Wallet.
(Thank you SA for my beautiful wallet. I've been using it non stop!)
Felony Case, Kaleidoscope in Matte Black, iPhone 6 plus.
The Kooples leather jacket.
Topshop mini white shirtdress (recent buy from The Bay). 
Sandro Paris leather and suede black ankle boots.
Marc By Marc Jacobs oversized white sunglasses (circa 2008).