I have anticipated this moment for so long that now that it’s here, I don’t know what to say. It’s surreal to be finally sharing the news. Am I dreaming?
But it’s all really happening.
I’m 18 weeks along now and time is already completely flying by. Especially since I feel as though I basically slept through summer. You guys weren’t kidding about the fatigue…wow!
Adam and I opted to wait a bit to start telling people, so I kept a personal video diary the whole time. Edited it down to 11 minutes, if you want to see what this weird and wonderful journey has been like so far, here’s a peek:
I also want to mention that I know many couples are struggling with fertility right now and I wanted to say that I see you and I’ve grieved with you and I have so much hope for you. This entire process from trying to pregnancy is a huge lesson in how random and unfair things can be, and mostly how out of our control it all really is. Love and light, my friends xo
My top thrifting tips, just in time for fall/back to school shopping!
This post is in partnership with Value Village. As always, opinions are my own!
I haven’t actually been back to school in, well, a very long time but that doesn’t mean I don’t get nostalgic for this time of year. All I want to do is stock up on new sweaters, stationary, and books. As I’ve cut back on my wardrobe in the last few years (see my open concept closet), I’ve tried to be conscious about what I’m bringing into our apartment. I’m also far more aware of my consumption of fast fashion and thrifting is a great way for me to balance that. It feels like I’m doing a small part in keeping some clothing out of landfills while giving me that feeling of something new, even if it’s only new-to-me. I also often bring some clothing to donate when I visit the store, so that I am keeping my current wardrobe concise and making room for a few purchases.
To kick off an ongoing partnership with Value Village (so exciting, right?), I thought I’d share a few thrifting tips with you that I’ve picked up over the years.
1. Allow Yourself Time To Browse
This is very important when it comes to thrifting because it really requires you to patiently browse. I find it really therapeutic to sift through the rows of clothing, which also makes it extra special when I spot a gem. It’s the thrill of the hunt for me! Also, I prefer to browse as stress-free as possible and try to go to the store during the week during quieter hours.
2. Try not to focus on the size label
Part of why thrifting can be so time-consuming is because it’s helpful to look through as much as possible. I usually gravitate towards my usual size first, but then I also take a look at what they have in the sizes below, as well as above. Which means I’m scouring M, L, and XL which can take a while. I’ve found plenty of items that aren’t my “usual” size that I never would have found or tried on if I hadn’t broadened my horizons.
3. Peep the Men’s section
Pictured above is one of my favourite Value Village finds…ever! It’s a Men’s silk button-up (Club Monaco and everything) and it is exquisite. The men’s clothing section can often have some trendy sweaters, button-ups, and even jackets. Obviously most pieces will be categorized as oversized, but it’s a whole look and I adore it!
4. Shop Often
Last week, I went to my local Value Village and didn’t find anything. Went back the very next day, and riffling through the exact same racks of clothing, I found 3 items to purchase! I also like to scope out different locations. I love popping into thrift shops in smaller towns, and the suburbs for a different variety. I’d say I’ve had the most success with cool vintage and retro pieces in the locations outside of the big city.
5. Have fun with it
I try not to go into a thrift store with a ton of expectations. Of course, there’s always a wishlist, but if I march into Value Village with only one specific item in mind, say, a blue blazer, I am often closed off to finding anything else. I think it’s great to have a few things in mind (so that you don’t go too crazy spending) but to still take the time to browse each section for other items because you just never know what you might find!
Do you have any tips or tricks that you would add to this list? I would love to hear them in the comments below!
This post is sponsored by Ever New Melbourne. As always, opinions are my own!
To celebrate the fact that EverNew.ca got a little makeover, I styled some pieces that I thought would make for the perfect wardrobe transition into fall! The new site now makes their various features (like in-store pickup and return options) easier to navigate and browsing a breeze!
There were SO many gorgeous fresh items in-store, it was really tough for me to narrow it down to only three outfits. I could have probably left with a couple of jumpsuits as well but had to use restraint (at least for now…). I tried to feature items that could easily be part of any fall capsule wardrobe and re-worn, I hope you love them!
We’ll start off with my personal favourite ensemble just because I can. This chunky knit sweater is beautiful, so soft, and most importantly, not at all itchy! I cannot stand a scratchy sweater. The fit is slightly cropped and boxy, which makes it easy to tuck into high waisted denim and trousers. I ended up pairing it with this faux leather wrap skirt (which fits like a dream btw) and my go-to black boots. It also looks great with white runners and a casual backpack-style purse.
Ever New Melbourne knows how to do dresses and they do them damn well! Since I don’t have any upcoming events that would require an occasion dress, I gravitated towards a frock that is slightly more versatile. I’m really into the fact that you could fancy this up with a sleek heel or keep it more casual with ankle boots. It seems that dark florals are a thing this season as well, so this dress is an absolute win!
Though I’m loving this tank top that is definitely re-wearable, the Isla Biker Jacket is the real star of the show. I cannot even tell you how comfortable it is, there’s a ribbed elastic panel on the one side of the arm and my goodness, it’s heavenly. If you’re looking for a fitted faux leather biker jacket that isn’t too flashy, this is the one! Looks like they just re-stocked it too, so act fast because I’m sure it usually sells out.
Sigh, Fall fashion is the best! Thanks so much for reading, my friends. It’s so good to be back. Also, I’m dying to know…which of the three looks is your favourite?!
Happy September, my friends! Well, we’re now almost halfway through the month but what the heck, time keeps slipping away from me.
I freaking love this time of year so much, it always feels like a new beginning. Which is exactly why I am making it my mission to bring this ol’ blog back to life! Thanks to some mental blocks (I’ll explain more about that in a post soon) and just feeling a bit lost in terms of career, I haven’t been sharing my writing for a long time. I have SO much content and some amazing blog posts that are all just sitting in my drafts folder unpublished and it’s time to get them out there!
Anyway, this is supposed to be about the outfit. I’m already on a major blazer kick and it’s not even officially fall yet. I’ve especially been loving this oversized navy number I found on sale at Lulu’s at the beginning of the season. Wearing it with all white felt a little close to Josie Geller undercover in Never Been Kissed, though I am missing the feathers which are a key component to her look LOL.
You might have seen this outfit on my IG stories back in June. I put this look together for our Chicago trip and have been meaning to photograph it ever since. Though the blazer has since sold out and the rest of my items cannot be linked, I have shared some very similar styles below!
SHOP THE POST:
Oversized Navy Blazer from Lulus | Similar style from Nordstrom
White Denim Culottes gifted from Joe Fresh | Similar from PAIGE and H&M
Ribbed White Tank Top from 8th and Main | Similar from & Other Stories
Chunky White Heels gifted from | Similar pair from Nordstrom
Sunglasses from Bailey Nelson | Similar pair by Karen Walker
Styling a small shared office space in partnership with Article.
Does anyone else browse the Article site religiously? I have this “problem” where I am constantly redecorating in my head. These design daydreams even extend other people’s houses when I’ve exhausted thinking about my own spaces. So, yeah, basically I’m constantly bookmarking furniture and home decor pieces for these hypothetical (and sometimes real) design plans. It’s a slight obsession. I’ve always been a huge fan of Article, as I love well-made neutral pieces and their pricing is quite reasonable. Trust me, I do a lot of research and price comparison LOL.
The shared studio/office space I’m a part of in Gastown is gorgeous. With two large windows and crisp white walls, the square footage might be small but is filled with natural light and vintage charm and I don’t know what I’d do without it. Recently, there was a bit of a shuffle and the lovely ladies at Gloss Boudoir took over the lease and set up a desk as their office apart from their photoshoot studio. This also meant that the old set-up was gone and Alex and I were able to move our existing Article furniture into the common area of the small studio so that everyone could enjoy our lounge chair and table. Admittedly, we’d let our corner get slightly over cluttered and this shift was the excuse we needed to organize and makeover our area.
Since Alex and I have partnered with Article in the past, we turned to them when it was time to add a few more items to bring the studio back to life. We stuck with light and neutral hues, aside from the walnut framed mirror, which helps anchor the palette. It was essential that all of the pieces are able to mix and matched as well as movable, as it is a common meeting area, as well as a photo studio. Everything came together so beautifully, I’m really excited to finally be sharing it with you! I’ve also outlined which items are new and if you have any questions about the Article pieces, definitely let me know in the comments below!
We needed something decorative and multi-purpose as a side table and potential extra seating. Article’s Bamba 16″ Pouf was a perfect choice! I adore the musted pattern, it goes well with the other natural woven fabrics and the grey tones in the surrounding chairs. We’re currently re-decorating our living room and home and if I’m being honest, I am leaning towards purchasing two of these.
The Beau Mirror is everything. It’s built to lean on the wall and has the most stunning but subtle leather and brass detailing to compliment the clean walnut lines. We’re beyond obsessed, it’s such a standout feature in the studio now. I predict a lot of mirror outfit photos in my future!
Last, but not least, we needed some comfortable but structured chairs to go with our marble Mara Oak Cafe Table. I am the first to admit that the previous two chairs I’d purchased from elsewhere (definitely not pictured) were a terrible, terrible choice. One of the chairs never even worked properly and it was a gamble to even attempt to sit in it. You get what you pay for, I guess! Anyway, it was Article to the rescue with a pair of Sede Thunder Gray Oak Dining Chairs. Cannot recommend them enough! So comfortable to work at but would also make really great proper dining chairs in a home.
There are still a few items we want to add, like a bit of greenery and personal photos (why are those always the last things I get around to adding to a room?!) but otherwise, I am thrilled with how the office is looking. It’s like we can breathe again in our studio/office and I can’t help but smile every time I open the door to our new Article-heavy setup.
I was invited to experience the All About Me Women’s Retreat as a partnership with Fairmont Chateau Whistler. This is an honest account of the weekend and all opinions are my own.
I hadn’t realized how much I needed a few days away. This time of year always feels naturally joyous with all the flowers blooming and warmer, longer days. The social calendar fills up as everyone comes out of winter hibernation and the collective stress of tax season fades. We’ve been having the nicest weather and this sunshine has kept me in a near perpetually good mood. The problem is, that things tend to get busier and stressful without notice. That was until I reached that fresh mountain air and had room to breathe.
I picked up Alex at the crack of dawn on a Friday to head up to Whistler. We’d been invited to experience a women’s retreat at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler and desperately needing a break, we both vowed to make it as recharging as possible.
Which is exactly why we were driving at first light toward Scandinave Spa. The outdoor spa is truly one of my favourite places on earth and it was such a treat to spend the entire morning in the pools, and then in a hammock, swaying with the breeze reading a romance novel to the soundtrack of nature and running water. Literally the perfect morning.
After a leisurely patio lunch at their Mallard Lounge, we were checked into our rooms and found ourselves each in one of the newly renovated Fairmont Chateau Whistler suites. I was completely blown away. The updates are modern but cozy, keeping the space bright and inviting. There are gorgeous mountain views, the familiarity and comfort of a Fairmont, but with a boutique hotel feel. My room had a dining area, living room, separate bedroom and two freaking bathrooms. I normally live in a 700 square foot apartment that I share with a man. You bet I used both bathrooms just because I could (though that did complicate the getting ready process, it was still worth it for extravagance). In all honesty, I could have spent my 48 hours just chilling in the hotel room alone.
Though we were post-spa zen and feeling the allure of napping on the plush bed, the afternoon was too beautiful to spend indoors. Alex and I set out on the short 10-minute walk to the village to wander around for a few hours before the retreat really began. We had a glass of wine on a patio in the middle of the village and soaked up that early evening sun.
I was admittedly a little buzzed (such a lightweight) and slightly nervous for the rooftop Weekend Kickoff, as this was my first retreat of any kind. But, it was actually a great way to start things off. A ton of the speakers took a minute to introduce themselves and that helped narrow down the itinerary for the weekend. There was such a variety of things to choose from like wellness talks, fitness classes, meditation, hikes, painting, etc. We then feasted on a delicious and healthy buffet, which I was really happy featured lots of vegetarian and vegan options for me. We met some lovely ladies and enjoyed the musician that played as the sun set.
Our friend Lynn was leading a candlelight Yin Yoga class that night and we had a much needed evening stretch. I love a good Yin to relax the mind and body.
They call this the Secret Season in Whistler. You can still ski a little, but it’s so warm that the likelihood of patio weather is high. The hoards of summer tourists aren’t here yet so you can avoid massive wait times and crowds. It’s honestly ideal.
We woke up on Saturday completely refreshed. There’s truly nothing that rivals sleeping in a Fairmont bed alone. I woke up feeling like a well-rested Kween.
Alex and I wasted no time, suited up and went straight down to the pool even before coffee. We snapped some pics and lounged around before grabbing breakfast. There was an early afternoon wellness talk and then we somehow ended up back at the pool for the remainder of the afternoon. It was just so warm for the beginning of May, how could we not? We had blended cocktails and talked about life and enjoyed the hot tub. As the theme of the ‘All About Me’ weekend is to make space for what you need in life, it was fitting that we were carving out a bit of time for ourselves poolside.
Realizing I rarely go out anymore, it sure was nice to get a little dolled up for the longtable dinner and soiree that evening. We had a great time getting to know the women we ended up sitting with and the live band was awesome! They gave out some prizes and after multiple courses of delicious food (more vegan goodness, I was so impressed) we got to squeeze in a bit of dancing before calling it a night.
After a patio breakfast, our last talk was about the pelvic floor, and adorably called ‘Kegels and Coffee’. Since my LEEP experience and joining the BC Women’s Hospital Foundation Young Women’s Council (more about both of these things very soon), I’m extremely passionate about helping women feel empowered about taking control of our health. Kim was amazing. Her talk was engaging, educational, and opened my eyes to the fact that I might have to visit a pelvic floor physio for slight correcting after my LEEP. Again, I’ll have a separate post dedicated to this soon.
Not to sound too dramatic, but we left the Fairmont Whistler feeling incredible. We relaxed, sure. But it was also about connecting with other women and taking the time to learn something new. The Women’s Retreat was much needed and I have a few girlfriends that are already plotting for us to all go together next year!
Be sure to go check out Alex’s recap over at To Vogue Or Bust and a big thanks to Fairmont Chateau Whistler for partnering with us! If you’re interested in attending the All About Me Women’s Weekend next year, there’s more information here!
Did I buy this t-shirt in three different colours? The answer is most definitely yes. The little sleeve roll and the height that the hem of the crop hits is perfect with all my high waist denim. It’s also slightly thicker cotton and not seethrough at all. What I’m saying, is that I pretty much wear this tee exclusively. I sized down to a S/M so that the boxy fit isn’t TOO loose, and usually do a little Tan France inspired french tuck (has to be said with an Engligh accent) so that the shirt stays in place.
Pairing it with my white wide leg jeans and leopard print booties, I realize now that I was taking this magnolia tree theme quite literally. Can you really blame me? The blooms are so gorgeous and only around for a few short weeks!
I freaking love this time of year for all the pretty flowers and glorious sunshine. I’ve been doing interval running on the seawall for 5 out of the last 8 days. Voluntarily and just because…I’ve felt like it? Does this mean I am becoming someone who actually can/enjoys running? Will I continue working out for once in my life? Stay tuned for riveting updates LOL. Hope you are all having an amazing day xo
A bunch of random things that I’ve been loving lately!
This is not a sponsored post, but by all means, if any of these people want to sponsor me, I’m avail 😉 I was also sick with an attractive cough/cold for pretty much all of February and most of March, so I cannot promise that these favourites will be the most exciting of all time. God, I’m such a gifted salesperson.
My Brüush Toothbrush
I was in the market for an electric toothbrush and my friend mentioned that a friend of hers had started an electric toothbrush company (seriously, what are the odds?) and that she was loving her Brüush! I reached out and they were kind enough to send one and you guys, it’s SO good! The packaging is gorgeous, but it’s also incredibly functional. Has a 4-week battery and simple charging station, 2-year warranty, and comes with a convenient travel case. There are different settings, so I find myself brushing for a bit longer to utilize the ‘gums’ setting, as well as the ‘tongue’ option. I also use the ‘gentle’ setting in the mornings, as my teeth are sensitive after I’ve clenched my jaw all night. I love that the brush head isn’t round, so it doesn’t just spray toothpaste onto every surface in the bathroom. I didn’t realize how quiet it is too. When I was brushing my teeth at my friend’s place a few weeks ago, she looked at me with shock and asked how my electric toothbrush was so quiet. I just adore my Brüush and wanted to give this new company some love!
Ole Henriksen Balance Collection
Well, I have finally done it. I’ve adopted some sort of a skincare regime. I’ve started off small and just do cleansing and toning every now and again, but that’s a vast improvement from my humble beginnings of doing nothing. I keep a Find Your Balance Oil Control Cleanser and Pore Balance Facial Sauna Scrub in the shower and use one or the other each time I wash my hair. Then I apply the Toner and Hydrator after my shower which leaves my skin feeling tingly and hydrated. I’ve really liked the collection, but I want to remind you that skincare is really different to everyone, so what works for me might not work for you. But, if you also forget to cleanse/tone yo face, I highly recommend the shower trick. It’s like a mini at-home spa treatment once a week!
The Vionic Joey Sneaker
When I was finally feeling better from my initial February cold, I was out walking Reg and somehow threw my back out. I’d never done that before and it was absolutely terrifying. I painfully crawled over to Adam, who was having a nap, and when he woke up and asked what was wrong, I burst into tears. That feeling of your spine not being able to support your body is one of the scariest things that has ever happened to me. I learned what to do though and was feeling better again by the end of that day. What this long-winded story is about, is that ever since I threw my back out, I have been wearing only my arch supportive Vionic Joey Sneakers. I liked them for travel last year but was such a white Vans loyalist that I didn’t really sport them beyond trips. Now I’ve worn them every day for the last month and they’ve been great. Ahh, the joys of ageing. If you have any other orthopedic shoe recommendations, I’m all ears!
Wilderado
Adam and I went to see Mt. Joy at The Imperial last month and it was a great show. If you don’t already know Mt. Joy, their debut album is dope as hell and you should definitely go listen if you’re into Indie Rock/Americana/Folky Blues. What surprised us, though, was how much we fell in love with the opening band, Wilderado. They don’t even have an album yet, just EPs of greatness and plenty of Spotify plays. I. Can’t. Stop. Listening. Over and over again, all day long. It’s like I’m possessed. I swear the lead singer made eye contact with me during their set (though Adam claims he did with him as well LOL) and it was so intense, maybe he cast a spell on me?! If you’re yearning for, dare I say, Americana early 2000’s Coldplay vibes with some Folky Fleet Foxes-worthy harmonies (?), go listen and become obsessed like I am so that we can bond over their sound, okay?
These Perfect High Waist Denim Shorts
You may have seen these bad boys on my IG stories yesterday, but I have more to say, so here we are. I happened to see them on the TOPSHOP website at the beginning of March and I have stalked their Vancouver location just waiting and waiting for these beauties to arrive. From first glance, I just knew they were the high waisted denim shorts of my dreams and I was bang on. They’d already sold out of the lighter denim at my local store, but luckily I was able to try on the black denim. I love them so much, I ordered them in the lighter denim as well. I love how they’re loose in the leg and hips, but the paperbag waist keeps a sexier silhouette. You’ll be seeing these for the next few months, so prepare yourself.
What have you been loving lately? Let me know in the comments below!
Want to look put together on your flight but still be comfortable? I’ve got you covered!
I don’t want to brag or completely oversell this post, but I have *almost* mastered the art of packing carry-on only and an essential component of this includes what I wear while in transit. I always want to be extremely comfortable, especially because it makes me feel more relaxed about flying, but also look put together. So, how do I achieve this?
I’ve outlined 4 looks that are all outfits I have legitimately worn on flights, most of them multiple times. They are all fairly basic, which is part of my minimal packing policy. I try to throw in a hat or standout piece, but for the most part, the pieces are classics that will be re-worn throughout the trip. It should be noted that I often do my hair and makeup for flights, which contributes to looking pulled together. I think it’s because of my flying anxiety, making the effort to getting ready gives me a sense of control to look and feel prepared.
Also, I am currently working on my carry-on only packing blog post so if you have any questions about how I manage it, let me know. Otherwise, here are some airplane outfit ideas for your next trip:
My Travel Uniform
My go-to getup is as follows: comfortable loose denim like boyfriend jeans or black cotton leggings. A loose, long t-shirt, usually in white or black. A roomier fit is imperative because in-flight bloat is a thing you guys, and it happens every damn time! Topped with a black leather jacket or denim jacket, as well as an oversized scarf, season dependent. Shoes are either white sneakers or black booties and I also wear a hat if I am bringing one on the trip so that it doesn’t get squished in my suitcase. Just don’t forget it in the overhead bin, as I have accidentally done more times than I’d like to admit. This combination is always cozy and works for a variety of destinations!
I originally took these photos for a campaign I did with Samsonite Canada, but I want you to know that I’ve continued to use this little pink suitcase for 2 years now and it is amazing. Holds a ton, super lightweight, and barely even has a scratch on it! I’m shocked that the reviews say it cracked, though I have only checked it a few times. I’ve linked to the same style, but in silver below.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Winter Travel
I’ve done far more winter travel than ever before and this has really tested my ability to do carry-on only. I love going to Europe in November/December because it’s much quieter and the Christmas spirit is strong. The only thing is that the weather is completely unpredictable, so you must prepare for it all! I have a comprehensive guide to what I packed for 2 weeks in Europe with carry-on only coming up on the blog very soon, but for now, I will let you know that my travel outfit in colder months is a slight variation of the above-mentioned Travel Uniform.
The trick is to wear only a thin layer underneath a good winter coat because running around airports and train stations will inevitably overheat you. The coat can easily be stuffed into the overhead bin on flights. The most uncomfortable component for me is if I have to replace my usual footwear with winter boots. I find them so heavy and claustrophobic for my feet, but sometimes they are a necessity.
