WHY YOU NEED BLOCK HEELS FOR FALL (AND NO, THEY'RE NOT GUCCI)
I have a this thing with flats. They're comfortable and dependable but on the other hand, if you're short like me, 5'4", they're not always the most flattering in photos or appropriate for events and fancy dinners. Enter the block heel. I just got these suede Mary Jane heels from Town Shoes and had a total ah-ha moment. There's a reason we see fashion editors and bloggers wearing this type of shoe season after season at fashion week. It's because they're actually comfortable! Even in these four-inchers, I was able to go about my day, shooting blog content and running errands without complaining about my shoes hurting. Bonus, I'm actually past my husband's shoulders wearing these so I don't feel like such a shortie. LOL
MUST HAVE FALL TREND @townshoes
Photography tip:
We shoot with two cameras; a Canon Rebel SL1 with a 50mm lens for our street style photography (in the picture above) and a Canon EOS M3 with an 18-55mm lens for closer shots (like the coffee ones you see here) and YouTube videos.
This post is sponsored by Town Shoes
Original images are property of woahstyle.com
WHISTLER TRAVEL DIARY: WHAT SHOES TO PACK ON YOUR TRIP
As you guys know, I had a chance to visit Whistler last month with Shoppers Drug Mart. The trip was amazing and right up my alley since we did our fair share of hiking, restaurant hoping and gondola rides up to Blackcomb Mountain.
Since I have so many pictures to share, I thought I would spilt my post into three parts:
Fall beauty trend forecasting with Shoppers (post here)
What to Do (coming soon)
What to Pack (what you're reading now)
If you're like me then you stress out about what to pack on holiday, let alone a press trip with plenty of out doors activities. My solution, chic and comfortable Stan Smiths (from Town Shoes) and cute ankle boots (also from Town Shoes). Both are excellent for traveling since they're easy to slip in and out of at the airport and they go well with so many different outfits. I wish I had a picture to show you guys but on my last day in Whistler, I wore a cute LBD, a leather jacket and my Stan Smiths to dinner. It was the perfect balance of chic but still elegant enough for a dinner out.
I always like to pack at least one pair of black jeans. They can easily be dressed up and dressed down. A striped long sleeve top is a fun way to keep an outfit from looking too serious and of course my Stan Smiths from Town Shoes are perfect for any scenario.
The climate in Whistler changes from day to day and depending on where you are. As we rode up the gondola to Blackcomb Mountain, it was chilly and foggy. Once on top, the clouds broke and the sun came out.
MY WHISTLER SHOE PICKS
From classic white kicks to suede ankle boots. These Dolca Vita booties from Town Shoes are excellent for transitioning your wardrobe from summer to fall. Bonus, they're so comfortable you can wear them all day.
Finally, make sure you pack layers. My go-to is my Mackage leather jacket and a long sleeved top. I also like to carry around a small crossbody bag like the Saint Laurent bag in this post because they're worry free.
People are always surprised to hear that I'm a nature nut. I would leave the city in a heartbeat to live in the mountains. Obsiously saying goodbye to Whistler wasn't easy but I'm thankful for the experience. Take me back please!
* This post is sponsored by Town Shoes. All photos and opinions are my own.
** Special thanks to Shoppers Drug Mart & Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
GUCCI SHOE HAUL, REVIEWS & METALLIC SHOE TRENDS FOR FALL
Gucci is everywhere right now and if you're not tired of the brand yet, then this post is for you. I'm doing a quick review on their most popular slippers and loafers and also showing you guys my metallic shoe collection that has been years in the making. It's interesting how when you're true to your personal style everything just comes together.
I'd like to know what you guys think of the Gucci trend and do you have any pairs on your wish list?
GUCCI GOLD CROSS OVER SANDALS
I've hear from a few people now that these sandals aren't the easiest to walk in and it's true. Maybe it's the 4.5" heel (with no platform) or maybe it's the bulky heel but these shoes are not made for walking long distances in. Regardless I think they're super chic and go with so many summer outfits and will transition well into early fall. I should mention though that I did get these on sale for half off and had it not been for the sale price, I probably wouldn't have gotten them. If you're not a fan of high heels, I say pass on these.
FIT: Italian sizing, runs small. I recommend you go half a size up.
SPLURGE ON IT $$$
GUCCI GOLD PRICETOWN LEATHER SLIPPER
I spotted these on Instagram in early spring and went crazy looking for them. I ordered them through Gucci.com since I wasn't able to find a store in Toronto that carried this particular colour. If you guys follow my blog, you'll know I've been wearing them non stop. They're by far the most comfortable pair of shoes I own and the gold makes them effortlessly chic. They're the kind of shoes that can be worn with anything and still look fashion forward. Best of all, the leather is super soft so you don't need to break these in.
FIT: Italian sizing, runs small. I recommend you go half a size up.
ONLINE SHOPPING TIP: Gucci.com includes customs and taxes into your order so that you're not paying additional duties when your order arrives. They also accept Paypal which is my favourite form of online payment!
ON A BUDGET
GUCCI PINK JORDAAN LEATHER LOAFER
The story of this shoe is a little wild. I originally saw these on my style crush Lizzy VD Ligt and started creeping all over the internet for them only to come up empty handed. Fast forward to a few months later, I happen to be walk into the Gucci store after a meeting only to see my dream pink loafer on display. Long story short, it turns out the store had gotten the one pair by accident, which happens to be a half size too big for me. Thirty mintues of hmmm-ing and haaa-ing later, I decided to take them home with me since I know they'd fit well with the help of insoles. They're just different enough from my gold slides to justify my purchase but most importantly, I love them. #ConfessionsOfAShoeaholic
FIT: Italian sizing, runs small. I recommend you go half a size up.
This colour is unavailable in North America but the Jordaan loafer can be found in silver, black, gold and red online. For pink loafers, check out the Gucci pink fringe metallic pump (here) or the Topshop version (here).
3.1 PHILLIP LIM GUNMETAL QUINN LOAFER
This is the shoe that started my love of metallic leather footwear. I had gotten these a few years back and similar to my gold slippers, I went through a great deal of looking before I found them online. Forever 21 famously ripped off this design and the replica was so close, I wonder how they got away with it.
Phillip Lim comes out with the Quinn loafer each season in different colours and textures, but I've never seen him do something as amazing as these. This loafer is a testament to why it's important to buy what you love and not for trends because even years later, I still think they're the shit.
SAINT LAURENT PARIS BABIES GLITTER BOOTIE
So many of my shoes have a story and that's probably because I'm ridiculously picky and ridiculously passionate about my footwear! A few years ago I had seen a picture of Gilda Ambrosio in all black wearing the most amazing pink ankle boots I had ever seen. The last year I happen to be in Marshalls when I saw them on display for such a insanely low price that I almost fell over. They were half a size too small but I was determined to stretch them out. I wore them around the house for weeks in thick socks before the leather finally started to give and they fit me properly. It's funny seeing them next to my pink loafers since they're almost the exact same colour.
*Shot on location at Langdon Hall.
Special thanks to the luxury hotel & spa for making this story come to life!
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.