CLASSICS
It seems that no matter where trends take us each season, there will always be a place for the classics. Sure, I love a pink sparkly boot as much as Dorothy loves her red Mary Janes, but I'm also a sucker for a good black pump and a button down shirt.
If you guys follow me on Snapchat (@woahstyle), you would have seen my unboxing video and commentary on Frank & Eileen- a brand that has mastered the art of the button down shirt for both men and women. I've worn a few of their tops now and have my fair share of faves each season, but this cut I'm wearing here, called the Eileen, is hands down my new favourite! It's oversized and comfy- perfect for the weekend and running errands around the city. I love how it looks with these distressed jeans and I can't wait to wear it with cutoffs during the summer. I already know that this classic shirt will stick around in my closet for a long time!
Now I want to hear from you; how do you keep your classic pieces looking updated each season and what's your must have? Is it a plain white button down shirt or a pair of loafers? Leave a comment below. ;)
xo, Nathalie
Special thanks to Frank & Eileen for keeping my wardrobe timeless.
All opinions and photos are my own.
LUXE SKINCARE FROM DARPHIN PARIS
I want to start this article by telling you that I've been testing these Darphin products for the last couple of months and comparing them to other products in my beauty drawer - everything from drugstore, to mid-level to natural skincare because I wanted to give you guys a fair assessment of Darphin Paris and answer, "is it really worth the money?".
Just a quick overview before we dive in, Darphin is a Parisian skincare brand that launched in 1958. When I say they're luxe, I mean it. Starting at $36 pimple cream (It's called blemish clearing gel btw) to $235 for Wrinkle Repair Serum, the brand prides themselves in quality ingredients made with the finest botanicals, most which come packaged in beautiful glass bottles and jars. If an entire line of skincare that targets specific troubled-skin isn't enough, you can always swing by the Darphin Vendôme Insitute in Paris for a luxurious spa experience. I know I'm crossing my fingers that I can visit one day!
I used everything from makeup remover to serums, moisturizer and micellar water from Darphin. Now that I'm in my 30's I find my skin is more sensitive and a bit textured on the surface. When I use Darphin, my skin is more hydrated and feels smoother. Makeup applies better and stays on longer too. I also find their products to be really calming and soothing since they smell heavenly- best described as a spa retreat mixed with fresh air and a subtle hint of flowers. They apply very silky on the skin as well so it's fair to say the brand offers are a true sensory experience.
So, is the price worth it? Yes absolutely!
I'm aware the price point on most of these products is high, but if I could recommend 5 must-have items from Darphin they would be:
Hydraskin Light All Day Skin Hydrating Cream Gel, $75
If there's only one Darphin product you can buy, make it this one. My skin feels and looks so good whenever I use it. I'd even go as far to say it's my new favourite moisturizer.Aromatic Cleansing Balm with Rosewood, $45
Warm up a bit of this solid cleanser between your fingers before massaging it onto your face to remove makeup and then rinse away with water. I usually use a micellar water after to make sure all traces of makeup are gone but then again, I do that with every cleanser. I love how this one is gentle on the skin and leaves it moisturized.Micro-Refining Smoothing Fluid for Combination Skin, $90
If you have textured combination skin like me, you're going to love this serum. While doesn't get rid of my texture completely, I find it helps calm my skin A LOT.Dark Circles Relief and De-Puffing Eye Serum, $100
I love using this serum to prep my dark under eyes before my eye cream. I makes me look more awake and it feels really good.Exquisâge Beauty Revealing Eye and Lip Contour Cream, $118
This eye and lip cream firms and feels really soothing. I dab it on my under eyes after the serum and dab a bit on my lips before applying lip balm.
If you guys are convinced you need Darphin in your life, you can find it at Sephora online and in select stores.
This post is in collaboration with Darphin Paris. All opinions and photos are my own.
HELLO JIMMY CHOO!
Okay, okay. So the shoes aren't Jimmy Choos but the handbag is. I borrowed it from Love That Bag because I've worked with them in the past and I wanted to do something different for this spring time post.
I was drawn to this tote for obvious reason - stars!!! If you guys don't know, I love anything with stars - sweaters, necklaces, boots, I freakin' love them! This bag is dripping in star shaped studs and finished in black patent leather. It's easy to wear and super convenient for summer. Think picnics, beach time or toting your laptop to the office. Alternatively, it could be a pretty cool gym bag. (The exact bag in this post is listed for sale here!)
As I already mentioned, I worked with Love That Bag last year and we've maintained a mutual relationship/ appreciation for one another. I'm in the midst of doing a bit of spring cleaning and I'll be putting some pieces up for consignment. Watch out for bags from Alexander Wang and Phillip Lim from my personal collection. Wether you're looking to buy or sell, go have a peek at Love That Bag for drool worthy, Instagram ready bags! ;)
xo, Nathalie
This post is in collaboration with Love That Bag. All opinions and photos are my own.
OVERSIZED BOMBERS & BODY ISSUES
I've been working from home since March now and as a result, I've gained weight and gone up a pant size. Okay, it's actually two.
Sitting at my desk for the better part of my day means I'm almost totally immobile. My bursts of movement come from running up and down the stairs or sprinting to the front door when UPS or FedEx ring the doorbell. Additionally, indulging in cupcakes, decadent meals and being too busy to cook have finally stacked up against me. It's inevitable right? Obviously I'm not proud of how I ended up with a rounder mid-section but it's important for me to share my story with you guys.
Last summer I was my strongest, happiest and most confident self. I was going to bootcamp 4-5 times a week and eating very healthy and clean. Sure my body didn't exactly resemble Gigi's, but I felt good about myself. Fast forward to now and my waistband is quickly expanding. Going up 2 pant sizes in two months is messed up and I need to take control before I get sick.
If you guys have any workout tips for me or any easy vegetarian recipes, let me know! I would love to hear what works for you and adapt it to my routine as I transition back to being healthy.
Happy Friday all and thanks for reading!
xo, Nathalie
Thank goodness for the magic of photography! Geoff's been shooting me in flattering angles for the last while. Hopefully you guys haven't noticed a difference.
BABY BLUE JEANS
I blame Pinterest for refueling my love of blue jeans.
It happened subconsciously where I found myself pinning picture after picture of women in jeans instead of the usual monochrome look. Honestly, I'm SOOOOO over the B&W Instagram accounts. I just can't. Blue jeans just feel right for spring. Plus they're so reliable and classic. We'll never get bored of seeing jeans and we'll always find new ways to wear them. Take Maja Wyh for example - she wears denim like no one else. I'm always amazed that she can make skinnies look so good with her oversized tops and feminine heels. Sarah Harris is another one- she wears jeans like they were made for her. I envy the connection her body seems to have with her jeans. Own it like you mean it!
I'm tempted to put away my black jeans all together but let's face it, that's NEVER going to happen. Instead, prepare to see me wearing lots of blue jeans this spring/summer.
xo, Nathalie
*Special thanks to Cartel Footwear for hooking me up with these awesome boots that go so well with my blue jeans.
HOW TO SURPRISE YOUR MUM ON MOTHER'S DAY
Do you know what you're getting your mum for Mother's Day? No?
That's alright because I've got you covered. I've put together a list of 5 ideas for your mum this Sunday.
5. BRUNCH
Hipsters, Instagram and, my mum. They all love a good brunch so I'm telling you to take your mum out for brunch! I went with the tea party theme and served up finger sandwiches, macarons and tarts from Butter Avenue. She enjoyed it but so did I because everyone benefits from brunch! #yum
4. THE TIMEPIECE
I have the fondest memories of my parents gifting my watches when I was younger so I thought I would do the same for my mama this year. This Swatch is fun and summery and seems to fit the theme of our tea party pretty well.
3. THE GIFT OF SCENT
What person doesn't love a good perfume? I gifted her Chloe because it reminds me of spring. It's light, airy, feminine and chic.
2. THE BAG
The lovely folks at Coach monogrammed this pink saddle bag with her initials on the front flap and discretely added my initials to the side tag so she's always reminded of me when she wears it. (Sappy I know!) We tied this cute scarf around the handle to personalize it further.
1. THE SURPRISE FACTOR
Surprise parties and get togethers are my thing these days so I surprised my mum with this adorable tea party! When she saw the spread she was over the moon which totally made my day.
Special thanks to Coach, Swatch and Chloe for helping this Mother's Day gift guide come together. All opinions and photos are my own.
BUTTERFLIES IN MY TUMMY
TIP: DIY your own distressed denim by cutting uneven "rips" on the knees. I picked these ones up on super sale for $28 at Banana Republic so I didn't mind cutting them. I also cropped them by cutting 3" off the hem and leaving them undone so they get more frayed with wear.
I legit had butterflies in my tummy when these Isabel Marant Jaeryn sandals reappeared in my size on SSENSE. You know when you want something so bad and it sells out and you're like "FML why did I wait so long?". Well I've been waiting a year to get my hands on these but they always sell out. Needless to say I was over the moon to finally grab a pair. Shopaholics rejoice!
xo, Nathalie
SHOP MY SHIRT
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HOW TO WEAR BLACK LIPSTICK (AND STILL LOOK CHIC)
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think black lipstick? Goth? Ya, me too.
In 1995 I was was rebelling against the world (or so I thought) and I made my biggest fashion statement yet by dying my hair black, shaving half my head into an undercut and wearing black lipstick, red eye liner and black nails. I was an angsty kid with a chip on my shoulder and I don’t even know why because in reality, life was good and I had the happiest childhood growing up. Let’s just sum it up to hormones.
The funny thing is, it wasn't even cool to be goth when I was young, and I certainly didn’t do it in hopes of becoming Miss Popularity. I just wanted to stand out and be original because I was sick of suburban life.
All of this has got me thinking about what it means to wear black, blue or whatever lipstick as a 30-something-year-old and still look respectable and polished. Can it be done? I’d like to think so but there’s certainly a time and a place. For example, you’re not going to show up at the office with black lips, but all signs point to yes for a night out with the girls. Here’s my checklist on how to wear black lipstick while still looking glam and age appropriate.
- BE FLAWLESS - Hydrate and prep your skin for flawless makeup. Conceal any imperfections and use bronzer and a pinky toned blush to warm up your skin. After all, you don’t want to look like The Walking Dead right?
- GET YOUR HAIR DID - Just as your makeup should be flawless, your hair should be too. Smooth away any fly aways with styling creme or go get a blow out.
- KEEP IT SIMPLE - Your lips will be the main focus so make sure the rest of your makeup is clean and simple. I opted for two coats of volume building mascara and skipped out on the eye liner.
- APPLICATION IS KEY - Apply that lipstick perfectly for a polished look. Use a lipliner and keep inside the lines. Erase any mistakes using a small brush and concealer.
- SMILE - Remember, you want to look polished, glamorous and sophisticated so don’t forget to smile!
So, is it socially acceptable to wear black lipstick in 2016? The answer is yes but expect looks along the way.
FESTIVAL READY OUTFITS & WHAT TO PACK
The end of Coachella means the beginning of festival season! Personally, I've never been, but I did go to Bestival and WayHome last year so I'd like to think I know what I'm talking about when I say "this is what you should pack and this is what you should wear." Makes sense right?
Festivals are all about fun and letting free but I can't help myself and I have to prepare for the day ahead. Packing some hand sani, an iPhone battery charger and some extra tissue (in case you're left in a no TP scenario), never hurts. Same goes for comfy clothes and cute and sensible shoes.
If you've ever wanted to step outside of your comfort zone but have never had the guts, now's the time. No one will judge because it's a festival and no one gives a fudge! Have fun with your outfit and go for it. These awesome Hunter wellies are a good way to add colour and will keep your feet safe from mud (trust me, mud happens!). Just make sure to show lots of leg in a cute mini or some short shorts like Kate Moss. ;) Pair the boots with a fringe tank and a cute bandana and you're almost ready!
Hunter backpack from SS16 jam packed with my festival essentials including aloe coconut water from Thirsty Buddha and coconut chips. I'm obsessed!
Keep the designer bag at home because you don't want to ruin it on the field. Instead store your necessities in a backpack. Last year I packed snacks like fruits, nuts, and vegan protein bars, basically anything didn't require refrigeration. Right now I'm obsessed with coconut chips from Montreal based Thirsty Buddha, so I'll probably pack a few of those too. No word of a lie, I stalked my local health food store for weeks until those coco chips were restocked! #addicted
Finally, use protection! Sunscreen, sunnies, a hat and even after sun are a must. Resembling a lobster post festival is not hot. Also, have fun with some different lipstick shades while you're at it. Black Truffle (black violet) and Spritzer (lilac) from Bite Beauty are really awesome lip colours that are super moisturizing but aren't exactly everyday appropriate in your 30s'. Now's the time to rock them!
So there you have my festival must haves/ survival guide. What are your tips?
xo, Nathalie
