THE GIFT FOR SOFT SKIN: FRESH COCOA & LIP TREATMENTS
I think the people at Fresh really know how to bring the concept of a spa and deliver it straight home. I know, I know. That sounds major cheese ball but it's true and that's what makes them such excellent gifts. Their body products and Lip Treatments are good for women who love to take care of their skin. Actually, I think the Cocoa products would even be a good gift for my blogger bestie, Michael from Global Garçon!
COCOA BODY EXFOLIATING
I love how Fresh launches these products just in time for the holidays! These are so beautiful, and gentle, and smell beyond decadent. The Cocoa Body Exfoliant and Cocoa Exfoliating Body Soap smell eerily close to the real deal and left me craving brownies post shower.
Crushed cocoa, crushed coconut shells, cocoa butter and coconut oil to gently buff skin. It felt much nicer than the abrasive sugar and salt scrubs that I've tried in the past and they don't feel oily. I hope they add a body cream to this line because it's that good. I can almost see it now, a 3 piece set for next Xmas, cocoa soap, cocoa body scrub, cocoa cream. Can I market that? (Ok Fresh. You can hire me now!)
Anyway, gift this to your bath time loving, chocoholic friend as the ultimate indulgent gift. (Like what I did there?)
LIP TREATMENT GIFT SET
I like these products just fine but I don't LOVE them. But Diana, WoahStyle beauty contributor, sure does. According to her last review, she attributes her 10 year relationship with her BF to this product. Based on a lot of your comments on my Instagram account, you guys do too, and that says a lot! This set makes an excellent gift on its own, or you can break it up and use the individual tubes as a stocking stuffer, or include it with an Xmas card for your cafe lady (is that weird?). That's why I decided I'm going to be gifting this exact Lip Treatment set to one of you guys. Stay tuuuuuuned!!!!
Chocolate can be harmful to cats and dogs but Theo doesn't know any better. I'm not sure if the same can be said for the Cocoa bath products, but I don't want to take a chance. I banned him from the set soon after this.
These items were gifted but all opinions here are my own.
Beauty Talk with Liz Trinnear
When Upper Canada Mall invited me back to their hood last month, I said "sure". My mission was to help them celebrate the store opening of Topshop at The Bay. I knew Liz Trinnear of etalk, was the special guest, but I didn't exactly know that I'd be sitting down to interview her until 30 mins before it happened. Yikes. Instead of freaking out and making a mountain out of a mole hill (is that how the saying goes?), I decided to approach the whole thing very casually and shoot the shit with her. She's a pretty cool girl and she taught me a couple of things about her beauty routine. Read on to find out what two items she recommends for flawless skin and the one thing she does every single night.
Liz is a believer in protecting her skin from the sun and uses a daily SPF, in particular the Kiehl's BB Cream with SPF 50. I used to swear by a tinted moisturizer that Kiehl's made years ago, but they discontinued it. Really stoked that she told me about their BB cream because it's actually very similar to my old fave.
Liz's bedtime routine is always the same, without fail. Like so many of us, she always washes her face before going to bed. She's keen on removing all her makeup to keep her skin looking flawless. Finally, when her skin needs a pick-me-up, she uses the Sephora Rose Mask. She says it's great for hydrating tired skin.
So there you have it, beauty secrets from the adorable blonde who used to guest host Gossip Girl on MuchMusic. That's how I remember her. Oh, and she looks like Gwen Stefani, who I totally love!
xo, Nathalie
Get Outside
When Geoff and I set out to shoot this post, we wanted to connect the coziness of my outfit with nature and we intentionally set out to do something less urban. We ended up shore side along the lake on a very cold day. I had the "brilliant" idea to ditch my jacket in vain of showing off my outfit and I was shivering like crazy. My only thoughts were "let's hurry this up" and "my ankles are freezing!" By the time we wrapped it up, my finger tips were bright red and numb.
We're embarking on a trip to the Canadian Rockies in a few weeks and it's inspired us to think outside of the box. We wanted to do something different from our usual street shots and minimal industrial backgrounds. With this mindset, we are hoping to bring you something different, and inspire you want to get out doors and explore. Maybe just dress more appropriately than I did here!
xo, Nathalie
WHAT I'M WEARING
Banana Republic, jeans & oversized cardigan (promo code CYBER)
Old Navy, knitted cap (promo code CYBER)
Gap, sweatshirt with side zip (promo code CYBER)
Roztayger, backpack from Bonastre (on sale with promo code Thanksgiving2015)
Everlane, slip ons
#lovewhatyougive
Alright guys. Welcome to my 2015 Gift Guide. I'll be updating this section right up until Xmas to bring you ideas of what to get everyone on your list, from your loved ones to the people who-you're-not-too-keen-on-but-have-to-give-them-a-gift-anyway. (We all have one of those.) If you have any great gift ideas let me know! I'd love to hear it. ;)
This holiday season I’ve teamed up with Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy to bring you guys this holiday gift guide. You’ve probably already seen me wearing some pieces from their fall/ winter collection, like these jeans from BR that crazy comfortable and inexpensive. I normally wear Jbrand and Rag & Bone jeans and I think these are a great alternative to designer denim. Just make sure you go down a size.
Since the theme with my Gap collab is all about giving, #lovewhatyougive, I felt it was appropriate to share my gift cards with my hubby (aka. photographer) and Diana, my BFF/ beauty contributor. I went shopping with them both and collectively, we came up with these items here.
COZY KNITS
I got one. Diana got one. Geoff got two (here and here). Cozy chunky knits are a great gift idea for Xmas. If you're unsure about the colour, go with a neutral like grey, ivory or beige and go light on the pattern (like the cardi Diana chose).
ACCESSORIES
I bought this pretty, faux-leather, gold clutch for a lovely colleague of mine who was leaving my workplace. Inside I included a couple of makeup goodies to surprise her and she LOVED it!
A clutch like this one, a makeup bag, a wrap bracelet, a scarf, a pom pom beanie, these are the kind of gifts that are excellent for someone you're not sure what to get, or even as an add on.
COATS & DENIM
So just before this collab landed on my desk, I had made a trip to Old Navy with Diana. I was floored with their prices! That day I bought a pair of work out pants because I wanted a good alternative to Lululemon's. (BTW, the ON version are legit.) I had never really shopped at Old Navy, but they have great basics and they look luxe when paired with other key pieces. I picked up an olive wrap coat as a layering piece for myself, but I could also see my mum wearing this.
Like I already mentioned, I'm loving BR denim right now.They're an excellent alternative to their designer counterparts, and they're super affordable, especially when topped off with a promo code. I'd like more of these in my life so maybe I'll put them on my holiday wish list. ; )
I had such a great time working on this collab and in part it's because I shared the "wealth" with Geoff and Diana. We all found that it's super easy to be thoughtful with gift giving from all three brands and they're all pretty affordable. Gap, Banana and Old Navy also have promo codes a-plenty this time of year, meaning you get more bang for your buck.
xo,
Nathalie
Just Bear With Me
December is my favourite month and this year is going to be incredible. It kicks off with Diana's bday (Dec 2nd), then I'm flying out to Banff/ Lake Louise mid month, then I get back in time for my bday (Dec. 21st), and finally Christmas! LOVE December!
Speaking of Xmas, I've been working on an awesome gift guide for you this year with ideas of what to get everyone on your list. They're items I can't wait to gift my friends and family and I hope they're items you're going to be excited about too. All of that is going down soon so bear with me please and thanks. In the meanwhile, I hope you'll enjoy the first part of this post. We shot this by the lake in Burlington on the weekend. I'm so happy with this series that I had to split it up. Stay tuned for part 2 tomorrow! ;)
xo, Nathalie
WHAT I'M WEARING
Banana Republic, jeans & oversized cardigan (on sale with promo code BRGIVE)
Old Navy, knitted cap & wrap coat
Gap, sweatshirt with side zip (on sale with promo code GAPHAPPY)
Roztayger, backpack from Bonastre (on sale with promo code Thanksgiving2015)
Everlane, slip ons
Disclaimer: The clothes I'm wearing were gifted to me by Gap Inc. They're pieces I love for myself, and would happily gift to a loved one as well.
Spray On Jeans & Cozy Knits
Snow, hail, gale force winds, sun and cloud. We pretty much faced all of the elements during this shoot. Did I mention it was also FREEZING cold? Sometimes you just have to get out there and get it done! Hope you're all having a good week so far!
xo, Nathalie
WHAT I'M WEARING
Blank NYC, Spray On jeans with faux leather detail on the back.
Old Navy, salt & pepper knit sweater.
Lacoste, reversible scarf.
Aritzia, cocoon coat.
Mackage, Rubie crossbody bag.
Sandro Paris, black ankle boots.
REVIEW: BIRCHBOX X GLAMLIFEGURU GUEST EDITOR BOX (WITH TATI WESTBROOK)
Hi, it's Diana, Nathalie's BFF and a new contributor to WoahStyle's Beauty Section. If you're wondering what I'm doing here, you can read Nathalie's intro and my first post here.
A few weeks ago, Nathalie told me that she was going to interview someone named Tati, who was launching her own line of cosmetics. Don't get mad, but I totally didn't know who she was. I don't spend a lot of time on YouTube, and when I do, it's mostly to watch cat videos. When Nathalie asked me to review Tati's new Guest Editor Birchbox, I thought it'd be a good idea because I'm impartial. Impartiality is super important when reviewing things. Here, I'll share an example. I have a friend who loves Madonna. He loves her so much that every online username he had in university had some variation of her name in it. Every time one of her new albums comes out, he'll talk about how it's the best one she's released to date. And he'll backup all of her questionable actions - including that kiss with Drake. My point is, idols can sometimes cloud judgement, so it's always good to have someone around to keep it real. Let's be honest, that Drake/Madonna kiss was hella weird.
BIRCHBOX X GLAMLIFEGURU GUEST EDITOR BOX (WITH TATI WESTBROOK)
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
- EMBRYOLISSE LAIT CREME CONCENTRATE
SAMPLE SIZE: 5ML
A lot of people love this. I could take it or leave it. It says that it's a multi-purpose product that removes make up, works as a repairing mask, as an after shave cream and it's sensitive enough for babies. I used it the other day to remove my make up and it did an awful job. Most of my make up stayed on after trying to wipe it away with a cotton pad, and it made it harder to take off. I had to use an eye make up remover, a cleansing wipe, and wash my face TWICE to get all of my make up off. I usually don't have to do that. However, I do think it would make a good repairing mask for those who don't have sensitive skin. I don't break out often, and when I do, it's usually after using a product that disagrees with my skin. I broke out a day after using this.
- LIVING PROOF PERFECT DAY (PHD) DRY SHAMPOO
SAMPLE SIZE: 92ML
Oh yes please, I'll take some more. Leaves your hair looking and feeling clean without an overpowering scent. I find some dry shampoos leave hair feeling really dry, this definitely didn't. My hair passed as freshly washed too, which isn't always the case when I use an inferior dry shampoo. Would absolutely buy the full-sized version of this.
- LOC ONE & DONE SHADOW STICK - DAY TRIP
SAMPLE SIZE: 0.05OZ
Tati's known for being a make up guru and her foray into her own make up line is impressive if I was to judge it on this one item. Beautiful colour pay off, didn't crease or smear throughout the day, no touch ups necessary.
- THEBALM COSMETICS FRATBOY BLUSH/SHADOW
SAMPLE SIZE: 3.5OZ
Would look fabulous on ladies with lighter skin tones. Did nothing for my medium complexion. Lasting power hard to judge because it just didn't show up on my skin.
- SKYN ICELAND HYDRO COOL FIRMING EYE GELS
SAMPLE SIZE: 0.11OZ
I actually love this brand. I've used their moisturizers in the past and they're great. I hated this. I read online reviews on this product and I don't understand how people rave about it. Maybe I got a defective sample? I followed instructions and left it on for 10 minutes. As I tried to take the pads off my undereye area, it pulled at the fragile skin! Also, I found that my undereye area didn't feel refreshed at all, I would go as far to say as they felt a little dry. Very disappointed.
Swatch samples on Nathalie's light-medium olive skin. As you can see theBalm's Frat Boy blush shows up well on her skintone.
The Cold Effect
It's crazy to think it's almost December and here I am dressed like early fall. While everyone has been relishing in the warmer weather, I can't help but worry. I think about the polar ice caps melting, polar bears in trouble, water levels rising, you know, the environmental repercussions what we're ultimately doing to our planet. I know it sounds like a total downer to write about this in a fashion blog, but these are the things I worry about and the reason I stopped eating animals. I'm just trying to do my part for the planet. Before you go ahead and call me a hypocrite, I'm very aware that I wear leather and I'm not saying that I'm perfect by any means. I don't believe in throwing something away unless it's truly garbage. In my house, we donate a lot to the Salvation Army. We use Kajiji and eBay to find a new home for designer shoes or furniture we no longer need. I gather up unwanted makeup and skincare samples and share them with my mum, bff, relatives and colleuges. I hate wasting food and would rather ask for a doggy bag before throwing out a half-eaten meal. Remember guys, reduce, re-use, recycle. Don't hate me for this post. These are just some of the things I think about.
xo, Nathalie
WHAT I'M WEARING
Banana Republic jeans and striped shirt.
The Kooples, leather moto jacket.
Valentino, Rockstud shoes and clutch.
Daniel Wellington, Lady Sheffield Watch.
those grunge vibes
From the age of thirteen to fifteen I went through a major grunge stage. All I listened to was Soungdaren, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Mudhoney, Alice In Chains. You know, the Seattle rock bands of the 90s'. I dressed like the guys in my favourite bands with grungy distressed jeans, Doc Martens, Chuck Taylors and concert t-shirts gallore. OMG I owned every concert tee out there and when I couldn't find anymore to collect, I moved onto band posters and rarity B sides tapes of hard to find music. This was pre-Napster my friends when people still collected tapes.
After my grunge obsession fizzled out, I turned goth for some time. I was one of two kids in my high school that dyed my hair black, shaved half my head and wore black nail polish (it was really hard to find back then). All of the kids thought I was weird but I was making a statement and I really didn't care. Post grunge, came my hippie stage. All I listed to was The Beatles and I watched all of their movies on VHS. Peter Sellers movie, The Party was the best thing I'd ever seen and I couldn't get enough of the 70s' during this time. That stage eventually died off too. My mum helped bring my back to present time and took me shopping at Ralph Lauren and Club Monaco, which started a whole other obsession.
There are days when I get dressed, like this outfit here, and I realize that grunge stage never really left. It's much more refined now and more glam-grunge than anything but it's still there. There's no denying it.
xo, Nathalie
WHAT I'M WEARING
The Kooples, t-shirt and fringe bag.
Rag & Bone, jeans.
Mother Denim, utility jacket.
Isabel Marant, Angie boots.