TRANSITIONING YOUR WARDROBE INTO FALL
If you're like me you're excited for fall. You're ready for layers, velvet pants, suede boots, leather jackets and wool coats. You're ready for sweaters and chunky knits and hats but the ongoing heat in the city is preventing us from truly transitioning our wardrobes to autumn.
What's a girl to do? It's simple really - summer on the bottom and fall on top (like I did here) and no one will question your sartorial choices. Trust me. All of the cool girls are doing it. Just look at some of my faves from NYFW. Their outfits are so seasonally balanced that you probably didn't even realize what was going on. So before the cold weather really hits, have some fun and wear a leather jacket and ankle boot with a pair of shorts and enjoy what I call "wear anything weather."
SPLURGE ON IT $$$
STYLE TIP: Shop at the men's section for a more relaxed, chic look. The Paul Smith sweater I'm wearing in this post is a men's medium and in my opinion makes the outfit more balanced when paired with a leather mini and heels.
ON A BUDGET
FALL TRANSITION INSPO VIA PINTEREST @ woahstyle
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND: EAT BRUNCH ALL DAY LONG
Happy Friday! Life has been so busy lately for me lately and I'm finally settling down to do some blogging. My horoscope said I'd be traveling lots in August and it wasn't kidding! Between going to Whistler with Shoppers Drug Mart, visiting the Bite Beauty labs and personal farm of the founder and an anniversary getaway to Langdon Hall, my calendar has been jam packed! Now that I'm back, I'm excited to share my brunch adventures and show you guys what to do this weekend!
SLEEP IN AND EAT A LIGHT BRUNCH
I can't remember the last time I spelt-in so you can bet what I'll be doing this weekend!
My weekend style is pretty laid back, shorts or jeans, an oversized button up (Frank & Eileen makes my favourite ones. This one is called the Eileen) and some comfy shoes like these Zanotti combat boots (similar here). I keep my makeup pretty light and just slap on some lipstick and a pair of sunnies so no one knows I'm not wearing eye makeup! ;)
Once ready, it's time for a light brunch to get the day going. Recess Toronto has the traditional breakfast foods like blueberry flapjacks alongside some healthier vegan options like grapefruit stacks with pomegranate seeds. I'll admit, the food is decent here but the decor is better and calls for some awesome Instagram worthy pics.
Afterwards it's time to run errands and build up an appetite for a bigger brunch! This weekend I'll be looking forward to soaking in the last couple of weeks of summer. Pretty soon it'll be time to put the shorts away and take the winter coats out. Enjoy it while it lasts!
HAPPY HOUR & THE BIG BRUNCH
Once it's past noon and a socially acceptable time to drink it's time to start sampling cocktails! #yolo
Fonda Lola on Queen Street has some killer margaritas and sangrias. The Mexican food here is phenomenal and every dish is tastier than it looks. Meat eaters will have plenty to choose from but us vegetarians have limited options. Also, be sure to order a starter because when I visited there was only one cook in the kitchen for the entire restaurant and we were there for about three hours from start to finish. Love you Fonda Lola but it's time to get more cooks in the kitchen!
With happy and full bellies it's time for a little summertime siesta and to dream the next brunch spot. Any suggestions?
Fonda Lola has phenomenal Instagram worthy dishes for those seeking good food and good pics! ;)
NOT YOUR MOM'S MAKEUP; ESTΓE LAUDER
Growing up I always thought of EstΓ©e Lauder as one of those ultra sophisticated brands that were meant for my mum and not for me. Their campaigns have always been very chic with beautifully done up models but I only started to take notice when they named Kendall Jenner as the new face of the brand. She appears stunning and fresh faced and I can't help but think "I'll use what she's using."
I recently stopped by the EstΓ©e Lauder office in Toronto to check out their Fall 2016 preview to see what the brand has in store for us.
SKINCARE
These two items are on my fall must have list; the Advanced Night Repair Intensive Recovery Ampules (perfect for de-stressing skin during travel or just during stressful times when our skin freaks out) and the Global Anti-Aging Wake Up Balm (it contains a touch of shimmer and instantly provides radiance to the skin). Both are suitable for all ages, all skin types, all year round use, and day and night. I've been taking them with me on my recent travels and I've noticed my skin has maintained its balance.
MAKEUP
EstΓ©e Lauder recently launched a new kind of cushion foundation, Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup, a medium coverage demi-matte formula. The liquid foundation comes in a twist up stick that easily blends into the skin with the help of the cushion that's built on top. It's quick to apply, mess-free and most of all, the foundation is incredible.
A new lipstick hits the shelves just in time for fall, Pure Color Envy Hi-Lustre. The formula is highly moisturizing with a nice sheen that's perfect for wearing alone or on top of a matte lipstick for longevity.
Finally, Victoria Beckham fans rejoice when her limited edition collection with EstΓ©e Lauder hits shelves next month. I haven't seen the lineup yet but I hear there's eye and lip products along with a bronzer and skincare items to create Beckham's signature flawless look.
Kendall Jenner, the new face of EstΓ©e Lauder.
In collaboration with EstΓ©e Lauder.
Kendall Jenner images provided by Overcat. All other images are original and property of woahstyle.com
REVIEW: SMASHBOX ALWAYS ON MATTE LIQUID LIPSTICKS
Just when you thought the liquid lipstick trend was over, Smashbox comes out with the new Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick. For starters, the colours are beautiful and highly pigmented with 20 new shades which range from lavender, to cool grey and brown. For the more traditional girl, there's corals, reds, pinks, berries and nudes. Oh and there's that deep red called Bawse they did in collaboration with YouTube megastar, Lilly Singh.
I'll be honest, when these first landed on my desk I didn't have high hopes. I get a lot of lipstick samples and I'm very fickle about what I like but after trying them out, I can say these are fab!
These liquid lipsticks apply like a cream formula but it dries completely matte soon after. Once dry, it DOES NOT COME OFF. (I recommend removing it with an oil based makeup remover or a potent micellar water like Garnier's waterproof micellar.) Long lasting lipsticks are always great in my books but how they feel on the lips is just as important. Since the Smashbox formula is matte, it does feel a bit dry, but it's far more comfortable to wear than other mattes I've tried. (Hello Kat Von D! Love your lippies but they're dry AF!)
I've been using these non-stop since I got them. The colours are great, the formula is awesome and the price point is decent for a high end lippie at $28 each. You can pick up the Smashbox Always On Matte lippies at Sephora and Shopper's Drug Mart nationwide.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR LIQUID LIPSTICK LAST EVEN LONGER
The following is a makeup trick I use to make my lipstick last even longer. I do this if I'm at a photo shoot or at an event. First I apply the Always On liquid lipstick to my lip as normal. Then I apply a regular cream formula lipstick over top in the matching colour. Doing this adds a bit of moisture to the matte liquid lipstick and makes it feel more comfortable on the lips. Somehow this mix calls for longer wear, as opposed to drying out too much and having the lipstick wear out on the inside-centre of the lip (...like when you eat or drink or talk to much. I haven't met a liquid lip that doesn't do this). Try it and tell me what you think!
TIP: Make sure you use a cream lipstick and not lip balm since it will do the opposite and wear out lipstick faster.
In collaboration with Smashbox Canada. All opinions and photos are my own.
NEW SKINCARE ALERT: FOR BELOVED ONE
The top-selling skincare brand from Taiwan called For Beloved One*, has just landed on our doorsteps, and Canada for that matter. The line features deeply hydrating sheet masks with hyaluronic acid ($64 for a 3 pack), Hyaluronic Acid Tri-Molecules Moisurtizing Surge Cream ($95) and Brightening DD creams in rose, lavender and peach tints ($55 each).
Popular amongst celebrities in Taiwan and Hong Kong, For Beloved One has a cult following with their Melasleep products and bio-cellulose sheet masks which are made from the finest fibers for more absorption.
For Beloved One can be purchased at T&T supermarkets nationwide or online at yesstyle.ca.
*FBO samples provided to WoahStyle.com. All photos are our own.
FANCY THINGS YOU NEED NOW: NESPRESSO VERTUOLINE
In this version of Fancy Things You Need Now, I'm going to be looking at the Nespresso - the pricey coffee machine that pumps out lattes, macchiatos, espressos and regular ol' coffee in less time than it takes to order most fancy lattes. Since getting my machine I've come to realize the Nespresso is more convenient and less expensive (with cost per use) than buying a cup of coffee everyday.
Let me tell you that we love coffee in my house. We have two french presses, a percolator, a Kitchen Aid coffee maker and a Cuisinart Cappuccino maker that we got as a wedding gift. We grind our own coffee beans and when it comes to espresso, we only use Illy. We're one of those couples.
Now that you know my level of commitment to coffee, let me tell you why you need a Nespresso.
QUALITY
Everyone wants to drink a good cup of coffee but not everyone knows how to make it. Think about how many lukewarm, bad tasting cups you've ever had at a cafeteria, restaurant or relatives house. Nespresso measures the exact amount of water needed for each coffee capsule, ensuring your coffee is consistently delish. Each capsule is sealed until it's time to brew.
TASTE
With 16 flavours available, from light to dark roasts, my faves are; Melozio (medium blend), Hazelino (hazelnut flavoured blend) and Odacio (medium blend with a hint of fruit).
EASE OF USE
Seriously it doesn't get any easier. Just place the capsule in the machine, press the button and voila!
COST
Fast forward to three weeks since getting our Nespresso and the daily run to Starbucks has stopped. Now I feel guilty buying coffee when I'm out because I can make better coffee at home.
The Nespresso VertuoLine (featured in this post) retails for $249 and is available as a bundle with the Aeroccino (milk frother) for $299. The Aeroccino retails for $100 on it's own. Coffee capsules average on $1.10, which is cheaper than most coffee shops. Espresso capsules retail for $0.85. It's hard to deny that having a Nespresso is cheaper in the long run.
My favourite thing; curl up with a magazine and a hot cup of coffee. #AllDone
In collaboration with Nespresso Canada.
All opinions and photos are my own.
BOLD MAKEUP FOR FALL: PURPLE EYE SHADOW
Happy Monday friends! With the constant heatwave in Toronto I know it's hard to think about fall but that's exactly what I'll be discussing today. If you follow me on Instagram you'll know that I've been in Whistler with Shoppers Drug Mart having the time of my life - dining on incredible meals, taking in the scenic views of Blackcomb Mountain and most importantly, looking fall makeup makeup trends and discussing our "beauty nevers". #BeautyDare (!!!)
I love playing around with makeup and there's hardly any trend I shy away from. Even still, purple eye shadow and false lashes have always been on the top of my list "never" list. Purple shadow because I feel it makes my olive skin look muddy and lack lustre and falsies because I don't have the patience for them. The few times I've attempted both, I've regretted it soon after and couldn't wait to get home to wash my face.
Photo by: Roxanne West of bonjourbliss.com
For my Shoppers #BeautyDare challenge, I sat down with makeup artist Simone Otis (known for her work with Shoppers Drug Mart, Elle, Bazaar, Rita Ora, Lorde, Bite Beauty, Fashion, Flare and Elisha Cuthbert to name a few), to create a purple eye and talk about beauty techniques when applying false lashes. This is what I learned.
1. Makeup artist Simone Otis put my "beauty never" to rest and showed me that olive skin can be a good canvas for purple shadow.
She created graphic eye on me and explained the secret is to layer in a few shades to really make the purple pop. For my look she used Clarins Cream-to-Powder eyeshadow in Silver Plum as a base and then layered in three purple shades from Urban Decay - Gravity, Asphyxia and Psychedelic Sister. The look was finished with a subtle cat eye, curled lashes and lots of mascara. I'm not gonna lie, it was a bit strange seeing my eyes wrapped in so much purple but that was the whole point of this challenge, to step outside of our comfort zone and try something new.
When I replicated the look on myself I added a touch of pink on the inner corner of my eye and transitioned to purple on the outer corners. A lot of purple still feels foreign to me so this was my way of getting comfortable with the colour. Now that I understand how purple works with my olive skin tone, I'm excited to try a bold purple cat eye that transitions to black on the outer corners. It's more within my comfort zone while still being bold.
2. Applying false lashes doesn't have to be daunting.
As much as I like the look of false lashes I never do it because it takes so much time and there's so much room for error (or so I thought). Simone showed me a technique no one really talks about that blew my mind!
Use individual lashes instead of a strip to create a more natural look that will hold up longer. She applied about 11 individual lashes on the upper part of my eye. She started at the outer corners and concentrated most of the individuals there. Then she moved towards the centre of my lash line and left the inner corner au naturel. The finished look was natural but still very bold. I doubt anyone would have been able to tell I was wearing falsies if I hadn't told them.
The benefits of individual lashes outweigh strip lashes in my opinion. You can add as many or as little extensions as you want anywhere you need it. They're also less likely to fall off which is amazing! (We've all been there, when your lash strip lifts from the inner part of your eye and no one tells you. Not cute!)
Finally, make sure to use a good lash glue. Simone introduced me to Duo lash adhesive. If you wear falsies than you would have already heard of it but this was a whole new world for me. It dries clear and it's hypoallergenic. Perf!
I gotta hand it to Simone Otis, she converted me on my "beauty never". I might not wear purple eyeshadow or false lashes daily but at least now I know how therefore I feel more confident pulling off these looks.
Now it's your turn. I dare you step outside of your comfort zone and think about your "beauty never". Start by talking to a makeup artist. Shoppers has an amazing team ready to teach you the tricks and tips you need to achieve a new fall look. Make sure to ask a lot of questions when you sit down with them so that you feel comfortable replicating the looks at home.
This post is in collaboration with Shoppers Drug Mart.
All opinions and photos are my own.
#NEWIN ANNABELLE VOLUME MASCARAS, METALLIC LIPSTICKS & MORE
Drug store beauty fave, Annabelle, has recently launched new mascaras, gel lip liners (a must-have for your beauty bag), metallic lip crayons and their staple LIPSIES balms in new "diamond" finish for a hint of shimmer.
Seven new mascaras have just launched from mega volume building to lengthening.
For those who love long lashes - you'll want to try:
Lash Launcher for lengthening.
Blastoff for curls.
Supernova for an all-in-one.
If you prefer big, bold lashes like me, then you'll want to try:
Big Show for mega volume.
Big Show Waterproof for mega volume in a waterproof formula (not pictured).
Expandable for volume & length building.
Outlash for dramatic, wide eyed volume with a 360Β° twishted brush.
Mascaras retail for $9.95 with exception of the Expandable Mascara which is $10.95.
In case you don't know it yet, Annabelle makes some of the best lip liners on the market, drug store or high end. These Gel Lip Liners are no exception! They come in 6 colours and retail for $8.95. (Nude Attitude not pictured.)
Annabelle also keep's up with the metallic lip trend with their new Twistup Metallic Retractable Lipstick Crayons. They come in 6 colours and retail for $9.95, which is much more affordable that the Kylie Cosmetics Metals.
Finally, the popular LIPSIES lineup has 6 new "diamond" shades. These moisturizing balms have shimmer added to a sheer wash of colour and retail for $4.95.
Annabelle cosmetics can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart across Canada and Well.ca amongst other retailers.
All prices are in CAD dollars.
Samples provided by Annabelle Cosmetics.
All opinions are my own and all photos belong to WoahStyle.com
#NEWIN MAKE UP FOR EVER WATER BLEND FOUNDATION
New series alert: #newin!
In the past I've only featured my favourite products in the Beauty section which in hindsight is a bit biased.
The purpose of starting this new series is to give you, dear reader, an overview of new product launches that are hitting the market. I'll try to post in real time as items head my way, but right now I'm trying to catch up on the many exciting things that are waiting to be photographed, swatched and played with.
So, without further ado, I want to talk about the latest foundation launch from Make Up For Ever called Water Blend.
Water Blend Face & Body Foundation in Warm Ivory (R330), Medium Beige (R370) and Golden Honey (Y405). I have medium olive skin and I've been using Y405 on my face and chest when I wear low cut tops.
This face and body makeup comes in 20 shades from Pink Alabaster to Dark Brown and retails for $54 CND. The easy to blend formula contains 80% water and is enriched with pro-vitamin B5, resulting in a sheer, dewy, natural finish that is ideal for every day wear.
If you like natural looking makeup, this one is for you and you should definitely check it out. Anyone who prefers a full coverage makeup might want to pass on this one.
TIPS FOR LONG LASTING MAKEUP
- Always use a makeup primer before you apply foundation.
- Apply foundation to your neck for a seamless, flawless look. If you're wearing a low cut top, bring your foundation down to your chest.
- Once you've applied your foundation, use a translucent powder to set it with a large fluffy brush (like this one).
- Finally, once you've done your full face, use a light mist of setting spray to lock your makeup in place.
- Application: I apply my Water Blend with my fingers although a Beauty Blender or a brush work best if you want your makeup to last all day.
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Thank you to Make Up For Ever Canada for sending over samples of Water Blend.
All opinions are my own and all photos belong to WoahStyle.com