Keep on Shopping

M by Mendocino Opens at Yonge Eglinton Centre

2009-06-06T20:21:00.003-05:00

The Mendocino Clearance store prevously on Yonge and in between Eglinton and Lawrence has officially moved a few blocks south at the conveniently located Yonge-Eglinton Centre! The store is great for those who love the store but can't quite afford the merchandise at their regular stores (though I must admit...the regular priced stuff is so much nicer).

*EDIT*The catch is....you will receive a gift with any $50 purchase to celebrate their new store opening!

This may be old news, but I only found out yesterday and they opened on Thursday.... so hopefully they still have some left. Hurry everyone.

Let's see what shoesies I've acquired in the past few months..

2009-05-05T18:47:00.008-05:00

Hello hello. It's been eons since I last blogged. Work is busy blah blah blah. I hate my job, but I'm lucky to have one blah blah blah.

The important thing is yay, updates! You all know what my favourite things are. Shoes! So moving along.

Salvatore Ferragamo Granny shoes! Loafers that are cut low...so they're kinda a cross between loafers and ballet flats. These were gonna be my work shoes. My goodness, they are just so comfortable.
The difference between part time work and f/t is that you really become tired for f/t. You put less effort and strive for comfort. They look less granny on the feet..regardless, I think I'll be passing these onto my mom.

The 'new(er)' Converse. Jack Purcells in dark silver. I've been searching for a pair of these babies in this colour forever. I searched high and low on Sneaker street in MK with no luck. I found these 2 days before I left HK, and they were 50% off at a shop on Grandville road in TST!

I'm a hypocrite. I never bought into the high-heeled oxford trend. I'm still not 100% on them, but the chunky heel and the bootie shape was perfect for all my wide legged dress pants throughout winter.

I'm in love with the Pedro Garica ones...but had to settle with these knockoffs . Now this is jewellery for your feet! Strings of pearls and rhinestones make this a real attention getter. 'Blair' isn't really my style....but the girly girl in me couldn't resist.

Of course, I save the best for last! My first pair of Choos :) The perfect non-boring work shoe! The pointy toe, the heel height, and the neutral colour screams 'career'...but the d'orsay cut and the cutout detail make this a little more interesting. And yes, those are the airplus gel steppies in there.

I just signed up for twitter! I'll prob tweet more than I blog, so you can follow me at keeponshopping

Estee Lauder Passport to Beauty @ Holt's

2009-03-16T17:36:00.002-05:00

From the Holt Renfrew site,
The exclusive Passport to Beauty Collection is yours with any Estée Lauder purchase of $100.00* or more. Find your own golden glamour with these Estée Lauder essentials...

2 Estée Lauder Signature Hydra-Lustre Lipsticks
Golden Brow Perfecting Duo compact
Artist's Eye Pencil
Special 7-day supply of luxurious Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Eye Creme

Even better, all these products come in a ready-to-travel, golden-weave envelope clutch, with cosmetic bag and passport holder. Drop by the Estée Lauder counter at your nearest Holt Renfrew location today to receive your Passport to Beauty Collection.

* Before taxes. ** One Passport to Beauty Collection per customer, while quantities last. Gift will not be shipped and are redeemable in store only.

O.B. Free sample pursepack!

2009-03-16T17:31:00.003-05:00

I don't use these....but they look cute and convenient. Get this fun freebie here

Help Shelternet by completing a short survey

2009-03-16T17:20:00.003-05:00

I've received this in the email pertaining to the L'Oreal offer in my last post. You can help someone just by using a few minutes of your time, what can be better than that?

"Matchstick is looking for feedback from anyone who may have seen my posting regardind L’Oreal Beauty Tubes. If you click on the link below and complete the survey, you will be helping them by donating $2.00 to Shelternet, so please Click Here to take their short feedback survey.

For every survey that is completed, Matchstick will make a $2 donation to Shelternet (shelternet.ca), which is a Web-based Women and Children’s Crisis Support Center that provides aid and financial support to locally based women’s shelters across Canada.

Your time and feedback is greatly appreciated"

$5 Off for L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

2009-02-18T21:52:00.002-05:00

This reminds me of Blinc's Kiss Me Mascara, where tubes are formed around your lashes so that you won't get any raccoon eyes, only cheaper. With $5 off by entering the Reference Code W9KW, it becomes even more inexpensive. Totally MY style ;)

ENJOY!

A Valentine's Dinner that's Affordable??

2009-02-04T22:25:00.002-05:00

As some of you may already know....Winterlicious ends on Feb.12 this year. Don't fret though, cos I received an email from Allusion Restaurant showing me their affordable Valentine's day menu, as I have been there a few times and signed up to be on their mailing list. I would do a review...but I didn't take any pics the last few times I ate there.

Anyways, I really like the restaurant. The ambiance is great, the staff provide great service...and of course, one of the most important things for me is that you get great food at a great price. This combination is hard to find uptown. They also have live music every Saturday night.

The location is a little 'off' as it is at a strip plaza surrounded by Chinese dim sum shops and noodle houses...so many of the people who visit that plaza may not be interested in checking Allusion out.

I'm feeling the love already..so I would like to share the menu with readers and hope that Allusion doesn't mind me posting it here.

St. Valentines Menu at Allusion Restaurant

Butternut Squash & Apple Soup

Choice of Appetizer

Hearts of Romaine
Romaine hearts tossed with allusion classic caesar dressing &
shaved parmesan

Allusion Salad
Organic greens, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber with hearts of palm
& gorgonzola in champagne vinaigrette

Escargot
Sautéed with pancetta, shallots
& mushrooms in a Chianti jus

Grilled Tiger Shrimp
Served with pineapple-mango salsa in a lime vinaigrette

Choice of Entrée

Seafood Linguine
Sea scallops, tiger shrimp & green lip mussels
Prepared in a fresh oregano and Roma tomato sauce

Rack of Lamb
Served with truffle mashed potato, asparagus, roasted portobello mushroom and cabernet reduction

Surf & Turf
4oz Striploin & Tiger Shrimp On a Saffron Risotto

Butter Chicken
Tender chicken breast marinated with classic Indian spices,
roasted & simmered in a rich creamy tomato base sauce
served with basmati rice & seasonal vegetables

Chilean Seabass
Gently cumin crusted sea bass in a saffron beurre blanc
served with baby potatoes, sweet peppers, fennel & haricots verts

Choice of Dessert

Cheese Cake
Served with fresh fruit & blueberry sorbet

Or

Lindt Milk Chocolate Daquoise
With fresh berries, chocolate sauce, & vanilla cream anglaise

$45.00

Address:

9021 Leslie Street,
Unit 7 & 8 (Fusion Parc)
Richmond Hill, Ontario
L4B 0B2

(905) 889-7001

http://www.allusionrestaurant.com/

FOR SALE: Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer

2009-02-03T22:08:00.003-05:00

I'm having my first sale!

I have CDP concealers up for sale. They are NWOB (new without box) and in the packaging/case (shown above) as the line has since revamped their packaging. Colours available are Beige and Ocher.

To determine your best match, see below for MAC foundation matches:
Beige: suits fairer skintones NC-20 to NC-30
Ocher: suite medium skin with yellow undertones, NC-30 or darker

It depends if you use it for under your eyes (go lighter) or facial blemishes. I have fair Asian skin and I use Beige mostly since I mainly use it for dark circles. Ocher matches me perfectly for facial skin imperfections, and in the summer when I am slightly tanned.

You can read reviews on this concealer on makeupalley.com or just google for plenty of info/reviews.

I'm selling them for $50 CAD each. Meet up/pick up only in the GTA.
However, if you're not located in Toronto but still want to purchase, give me a shout! I'll try to work things out.

I'm disabling comments, so please email me instead at gsquaredmail@gmail.com if interested.

I will be posting more pictures shortly to show the products in better detail.

photo courtesy of soaps.com

Birkins, Speedys, and Caviar leathers fear no more!

2009-01-27T20:58:00.003-05:00

I was quite excited to receive this pursehook made by My Tagalongs.

I don't usually keep my bags on the icky floor anyways, but it is always uncomfortable to place your bag on the back of your chair and be forced to sit on only half of the seat. When space is limited, your baby is not always able to have its own chair, especially at tables for two.

You don't have to own a designer bag to justify the use of a purse hook...we all want to protect our precious bags! I cherish my Damier Speedy 30 as much as my purple lambskin satchel by Danier (a Canadian leather company), even though it is a fraction of the price. Actually, I am more afraid of damaging the delicate lambskin of the Danier than getting the coated canvas of the Speedy dirty, as it can easily be wiped off. Anyone living in a climate of snow, rain and ice will probably need this even more. Can you imagine placing your bag on a bed of wet, melting snow and salt and getting waterstains on your leather? *shudders*

Visit MyTagalong's website for more details. They also offer a variety of funky stuff made for ladies, such as the Emergency Valet, Little Black Dis-tress kit, and the Contented Purse.

Canadians, you can purchase the pursehook in the handbag section of The Bay for $15.

Thanks to Ashworth & Associates for sending me the pursehook!

HK Shopping: Leather Jackets

2009-01-21T21:47:00.005-05:00

These were some of the ones I had in mind when I planned to purchase my first leather jacket...

Moschino Cheap and Chic Double Breasted jacket-nice bright colour, and I LUUURRVE the buttons and the belted detail on the sleeves. Not too fond of the cropped sleeves though.

Juicy Couture shrunken leather hoodie, minus the shrunken part. If I'm going to get ONE leather jacket, it better be practical and keep you (slightly) warm. This is more plain, but simple means that it will go with everything. Plus, I've always had a thing for hoodies, they are just too comfy!

Jenni Kayne Asymmetrical Motorcycle Jacket-this look is hot! It adds an instant 'coolness' to your outfits whether you pair it with simple tee/tank and skinny jeans, or with a flowery chiffon dress + military boots. I would pair it with outfit one, as it is more my style....

I saw these all over stores in HK...yet didn't want to shell out $3000+ HKD ($500 CAD, $400+ USD) for a jacket that I would only be able to wear during the non-rainy days late days or spring or early autumn. With the amount of rain we got in Toronto last year....it just wasn't really worth it. I saw plenty of pleather jackets in this style too...but they still cost $600+HKD, and I really go for quality > trends.

In the end...I got:
A deep eggplant coloured lambskin motorcycle jacket. It's really more of a deep purple than it appears with the flash in this picture. I love purple, and it is dark enough of a shade to appear as a neutral, so goes with most of my outfits easily. I like the snap collar. The cut is slimming, and the details are simple making this, what I would call a staple in my wardrobe. I wore this EVERYWHERE during the chillier days in HK with a lavender pashmina scarf...cos I'm really into monochromatic dressing :P
AND, unexpectedly, I got a second leather jacket! The big angular collars satisfy my obsession with motorcycle jackets like the Jenni Kayne one above. White leather is tricky...but it looks really good. The grey elastic lining runs along the sides of the jacket and the sleeves, so that I don't have to worry about gaining or losing a few pounds and not be able to wear it again. This was only a little over half the price of the purple jacket!!! It was a super deal that I found at the most obscure of all places to shop in HK..........Stanley!!!!!

I was crazy over buying coats/jackets on my HK trip...2 down, and more to come!

Keep on Shopping: Hong Kong Edition-Day 3

2008-12-15T09:04:00.003-05:00

I must say, there is probably no where better to shop than HK!!! I'm at day 3 right now, and will be here for many more days to come. The best of both the East and West meet here, there are no taxes, and you can get dirt cheap market scores to the most luxurious designer brands, all in once city!

After shopping for 3 days straight and hitting up 4 huge malls, and 2-3 smaller shopping centers, I've already scored several items, from clothing, to jewellery, to shoes, from affordable chain stores, local brands, and designer duds. Arggh...must pace myself before I spend all my money! Will need to take pics of my items and post them here :D I only got my adapter today at Apliu street, so I hven't bheen able to use my computer for 2 days already. I'm so gung ho about shopping that I don't even think I feel my jetlag!

Any tips for shopping and eating from local HK-ers highly appreciated!

Please check back for updates! :D

Lancome Women's Week Gift with Purchase@ Sears

2007-03-03T13:55:00.000-05:00

From March 3-9, pick up the gift shown above (Renergie Microlift, Definicils Mascara-Black, Le Rouge Absolu SPF 15, and a mini Tresor EDP) with any Lancome product purchase. It's a great deal without having to spend a minimum amount (which is usually $33). So go ahead and pick up that artliner or juicy tube and enjoy these freebies! One per customer, while quantities last.

Cosmetic Sets: Get the Most Bang for Your Buck

2007-03-09T21:09:00.000-05:00

Ever since I hit university, I started to have an interest in quality skincare and makeup. With Sephoras popping up in Toronto, and the expansion of the beauty counters at SDM and Holt's, trying products other than Maybelline or Cover Girl seemed inevitable.
With my growing preference for quality products but being on a student budget, gift sets are the ideal way to purchase normally 'expensive' products for a fraction of the price. Gift sets often feature popular products as well, so you're bound to find a few items you'll like. If the item simply doesn't suit you, you can give it away as a gift or stocking stuffer like I do. It looks great without spending a lot. It's also a great way to try out different products before you pay full retail price for them.
My Recommendations:
1) Smashbox All Access VIP: it's a great deal for $69 CAD. It's a perfect set for someone starting to use makeup.
2) I got the Cargo 10th anniversay set for $49 CAD and it contains 5 full sized products, all of which are best sellers.
3)The Caudalie VinoGo Weekend set is priced at $32 USD, but it's also $32 CAD! I love Caudalie products, especially the foaming cleanser.
4) Stila On The Go Set: $41 CAD with the lovely and highly pigmented shadow quad, lip glaze in honeydew and full size convertible colour in the best colour (IMO) Lillium ( it's not on the sephora site anymore...not sure if it's sold out).

My Bargain Buys: Marc by Marc Jacobs Cotton Ball Print Cami

2007-03-11T19:39:00.000-05:00

I picked up this adorable MJ camisole at Holt Renfrew Last Call for an additional 90% off the already reduced price! I forgot the final price, but thank goodness for the reduction from $325...which is absolutely ridiculous for a cotton camisole that was made in Sri Lanka.
I couldn't figure out the straps for the longest time...but if you can see in the last pic, I somehow made it into criss cross straps after playing around with it.
I bought this awhile ago, so you probably won't be able to find it anymore, but Holt's last call store is always overstocked with clothing, shoes, lingerie and accessories from past seasons at heavily discounted prices. Actually, most of the time I find the stock there hideous. It's messy, some clothes are old and damaged.....I almost gave up shopping there because 85% of the time, I never find anything. Even Winners is neat compared to it! Fortunately, the past few times I went, I was able to pick up something, so don't give up! Like vintage shops, last call is always hit-or-miss. If you have time, scrounge around and maybe you'll find some good quality items at ridiculous prices! At least you'll have the confidence that Holt's won't be selling you inauthentic goods!

Locations:
Toronto
1 Bass Pro Mills Drive
Vaughan, ON L4K 5W4
(905) 886-7444

Winnipeg
393 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3B 3H6
(204) 942-7321

Gotta Love Free Food

2007-03-14T18:54:00.000-05:00

Free cosmetics are always nice...but equally nice is free food (to me at least...i loveeeee to eat)! The great thing about downtown (besides shopping, food, entertainment, people watching...etc.) is that companies always do promotions and give away freebies for you to remember them. I've gotten countless coupons, 'VIP' discount cards and pens in past years, but this year...or school year rather, I realized I've been getting lots of free snacks. Take today for example, I received the cute banana candies at St. George station from some Telus promoters (the monkey gives it aways anyways). I also got a small pack of fresh popcorn at Union Station today. I was definitely satiated! A month or two ago, I remember getting free Reese's Peanut Butter Cups at Union Station again...we're talking full size here!
The best part? These kinda freebies waste no time at all (unlike cosmetics where you have to get a consultation/makeover and then possibly purchase something and end up spending more). Now THIS is a real freebie!

Decisions, Decisions...Damier or Monogram Canvas?

2007-03-21T11:15:00.000-05:00

*edit* pic is up :)

I haven't been blogging much lately...too bombarded by midterms @__@ which means no time for shopping/entertainment.

I did manage to purchase my first 'large' sized designer bag last Friday. Since I'm on a budget...I had to keep it under $1000 and I wanted something classic...something that I can wear for years to come (cos I'm frugal like that).

In the end, I got the Louis Vuitton Damier Speedy 30. Every fashionista has to own a piece of Louis Vuitton right? All the Miu Miu leather bags I wanted, classic Chanel bags were $1000 +.

Hrmm...but now I'm still debating...should I have gotten the monogram instead? (even thought i'm not big on monogrammed goods...). I know the damier is actually the first, older design..but it makes me look kinda....'mature'. I'm not a career woman just yet.

*sigh* I still love it though. What to do? Any suggestions?

Restaurant Review: 5th Element Fine Dining & Lounge

2007-04-08T17:16:00.000-05:00

5th Element Fine Dining & Lounge offers an East Indian-Mediterranean Fusion cuisine. It's a good introduction to Indian food (even though it's NOT an Indian restaurant). It sits at the convenient location of Bay & St. Joseph (right between Bloor and Wellesley). The restaurant is one level and offers patio sitting in warmer months. Our group of 10 ordered from the special promotional 4 course dinner menu, and it was DELICIOUS (not to mention the fabulous price!).

We all started off with the 'amuse" which was the English Green Pea Consomme. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture, but it was a small green pea soup with crispy dough balls floating on top. There was a slight zesty aftertaste to it...which made it very enjoyable. One of my friends loved it and wanted more after finishing.

There were 5 appetizers to choose from...and as you see above, I chose the salmon wrapped scallops. The bay scallop was grilled..and the flavour of it was exquisite! I loved the spices they put on the scallop. I'm a fan of smoked salmon, so I def loved this dish. The Vegetable Samosa au Gratin was a samosa with melted cheese on top and I heard it was excellent as well. Other choices include the FIsh Tempura, Asian Pear & Mango Salad and Chaat Delicacy.
For the main course, the Lobster Risotto was a popular choice. I didn't try it, but everyone cleared their plates. Of course, how can you go wrong with yummy lobster tails and creamy risotto?
I opted for the Nazami Lamb Shank. I totally RECOMMEND this dish. I'm don't eat lamb that much...nor do I always appreciate that strange flavour only lamb gives off...but this is one of the best lamb shanks I've ever had. Part of the reason was because the 'lamb' flavour wasn't too strong, secondly..I just really liked the sauce. It was a little sweet and salty and also had a tang to it. The mashed potatoes go very nicely with the sauce as well.Another entree option was the Tandoor Red Chicken. If you like curry, or spicy/zesty food, you'll probably like this dish. The pilaf rice tastes like curry rice (I never knew what pilaf was). It looked quite yummy actually.
The other 2 entree options include Salmon Rolade and Stuffed Paneer Tikka.
Finally...DESSERT!. I had the creme brulee. Some claim that it was only 'ok' and some didn't like the consistency. I thought it was good...not OUTSTANDING..but still good. My only problem was that there was too much sugar on top. I ha to hit my spoon hardly to break off the first piece. Not bad though.Another choice for dessert was the chocolate mousse. I've heard lots of good things about it...but my friends don't like overly rich or sweet things. It should be a great choice for any chocolate lover though!
The final choice for dessert was Gulab Jamun with Mascarpone cheese.

All in all, I had a wonderful experience there. The servers and the boss were friendly. Service was a teeny bit slow..but that's expected of finer restaurants. At least they weren't trying to rush you out the door to seat other people (like Asian places -_-). For the price, the portions were good. Not teeny like what you would expect at the -licious events. For girls, the portions were more than enough. Unless you're a big guy, you should be satiated. The dinner promo of $39.99 for 2 people ends April 14, but do not fret because I heard there will be another promo soon at the end of the month. Their regular menu prices are also quite affordable for this type of restaurant.

Check out their promo dinner special menu here
Check out the restaurant website here

Thank you to majic on RFD for the pictures (yes I forgot to take pics during my own dinner).

5th Element Fine Dining & Lounge
1033 Bay St. (Bay & St. Joseph, between Bloor and Wellesley)
Downtown Toronto
416-923-8159
Dress code: smart casual
Catering available
TTC Stop: Bay

Spring/Summer Cheap Thrills

2007-04-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

Over the past few weeks...I've shopped around and picked things up 'accidently'. I have had no intention of buying anything in particular for the past 2 months...but unfortunately(?), that's when I buy the most -_-. I used to hate H&M. When it first opened in Toronto., I would keep going in, hopint to find something, but I would never find anything I liked. I didn't find the prices all that cheap either....but looks like I changed my mind this past year. (please don't mind the random stuff in my room shown in the pics :P).
Picked up this coral empire waisted v-neck jersey dress today @ H&M. The print looks like some splattered ink dots on a coral background. On the TLC show 'What Not To Wear', coral is said to be one of the most universally flattering colours. It looks good on ANY skintone. I don't own anything coral...so this might be a good start. The empire waist is flattering for shorties like me, the knee length is great for petites (me again) and the straps are JUST thick enough to cover bra straps. SCORE at $16.90 CAD!
On my last day of classes, I took a trip down to Eaton Centre to pick up a freebie and to check out Sephora. I ended up at Urban Outfitters instead when I saw the additional 50% off sign. Not as good as March's end of season additional 75% sale...but still good. Got this sheer, floaty sleeved top for $17. I've been trying to change my wardrobe the past 2 years with a focus on more feminine tops to pair with my love of casual denim and trouser shorts. A great, colourful addition to my wardrobe since I mainly wear neutrals.
Picked this blush jersey top with black sash at H&M also. Regular price at $24.90...usually I don't buy regular priced stuff...but I just loved the length of the top, the pleats, and the slightly square neckline. The jersey material is super sheer, but comfortable. I actually hate the colour pink....but since this is so light, I'll consider it neutral XD.
My aunt bought this for me from Korea or HK...I forgot. The nude colour is nice, so are the lace accents...very romantic. However, this isn't quite my style (frilly, girly, ultra fem/cute). The bottom layers of the skirt part aren't exactly the most flattering for my problem area (thighs) either. I like it..and I do want to wear it...Anyone have any suggestions to make it look more flattering or 'cool'?
Finally...SHOE SHOPPING! One of my favourite things to do. Like my wardrobe, I've also been working on changing my shoe collection for the past few years...less sneakers and more heels and ballet flats. Picked up this pair of Louboutin-esque Aldo blue patent leather platforms for $25. Haven't worn them yet...I'm scared I won't be able to walk in them. I don't think I'll wear em much...but for $25, I'll give them a try. Just bought these 2 weeks ago and have worn them like mad! Red leather flats for $20. They also had gold...and I was so tempted to get them too, but I've always wanted a pair of red flats. I also wanted to see how comfy these were before I picked up 2 pairs. I love them! Still trying to break into them, but they're a lot more comfy than the silver ballet flats I got at Aritzia (which look exactly the same except for the bottom).

All that for just a little over $100 (minus the lace dress and tax). :D

What cheap thrills have you encountered lately?

Gap x Rodarte Bow Top

2007-05-02T17:21:00.000-05:00

Ok...everybody knows that the designer collaboration ( Doori, Thakoon, Rodarte) with Gap has been out for awhile. In fact, most places around the world (or is it the States only?) sold out when it first hit the shelves.

Anyways...I never really bothered looking cos:

1) I didn't know Canada would carry it
2) I don't know if it's worth it to purchase such an expensive cotton top because it's only a COLLABORATION, not the ACTUAL designer piece
3) Tons of people will flock out and purchase these tops/dresses...which means that it's not that unique anymore
4) Gap material is only ok...is it worth it to splurge on nice design, not so nice quality?

I called today, and one location still has one that MIGHT fit me...

So my question is: Should I buy it? It's $88 CAD..for a tank top...albeit a nice tank top. For those who bought it, anyone know how the sizing is? the quality of the top? is it worth the splurge?

*sigh* I need a (office) job. Would anyone like to hire me?

School's Out! :D

2007-05-09T17:31:00.000-05:00

I finished my FINAL exam early this morning, and to celebrate, I did a bit of shopping (again...cos this IS "Keep on Shopping")!

Purchased this soft sea green cotton Juicy Couture baby doll cami at 75% off. I promise you I'm not a fan of juicy...(I admit I have one of their 'signature' hoodies)...but some of their stuff that doesn't have a huge "JUICY" emblazoned on it look quite nice. I found the neckline quite flattering. The double spaghetti straps make this cami a bit more special than a regular high street store one.

Here is the back view where you see the typical elastic backing that many Juicy shirts have. I do like the pleated effect at the back though.

I adore Mike&Chris stuff for simple reasons. I love wearing plain tees, tanks, zip ups and jeans...but it tends to get a bit boring. THIS though, is casualwear with a twist! I already own a cropped hoodie from Mike&Chris, and adding to my collection is this Cody vest in dark, forest green. I dunno why it looks black in the pic...but for 80% off, it's cheaper than buying through online stores! It's still kinda hard to justify paying $200+ for this....but I won't complain when it's on sale.
Yes...this is a plain ol' wifebeater tank in plain ol' gray. This is a staple in my closet though. I own these tanks in different colours, patterns and brands. They're great to wear under (cardigan/jacket), over (tee or dress shirt), AND out (just by itself). You can even layer them..but I'm sure you all know that. Anyways I usually buy the high street store ones (Old Navy, Zara, TNA, Club Monaco etc.) but I've picked up 2 James Perse tanks in the past 2 months. A neon green one (perfect for summer) and this basic neutral one, both at 75% off.
Alright, I know what you fashionistas are thinking. Yes, this is an AE polo. It fits great and the bright orange is unique. I don't see many people in ORANGE these days. Beats me why all the previous AE customers have gone over to Hollister and Abercrombie...they're all the same to me. In fact, AE is cheaper AND you can actually see what you're buying because they turn on the lights! Maybe I'm just biased though cos I was an AE fan in high school ( I don't wear head to toe though..so I never looked like a beachy kid). Anyways, I should stop talking because I do have a hollister sweater and an A&F tshirt :P Not that I'm a fan...but they were on sale and gd basics y'know? =_=
Isn't he adorable? He was all alone and surrounded by 20 Chicken Littles, 1 Flounder, and a bunch of Cinderella mice. He was only $2.99, but I would've adopted him either way XD (This is Roo from Winnie the Pooh btw...).

Underrated Beauty: Camilla Belle

2007-05-15T21:07:00.000-05:00

Fashion/Style icons typically revolve around celebrities. Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot are classic icons. Nowadays, it's kinda hard to find a modern style icon since very few celebrities don't use a stylist. However, one young, striking beauty gets two thumbs up for NOT using a stylist, but still looking gorgeous at most, if not all events.

Camilla Belle. Most might know her from the thriller "When a Stranger Calls". Others might recognize her from the Miu Miu ads she did with Kim Basinger or the Vera Wang Princess ads. She's been in a lot of movies in her younger days (but I didn't know her then :P). She knows what she looks good in whether it is something young and colourful, graceful & ladylike, or chic & sophisticated. I love how she can look both young and fresh and mature depending on the event. Her thick eyebrows give her character and set her apart from all the other blue eyed blondes in Hollywood.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe this silver dress is by Fendi, as I remember seeing ads of it. I was not impressed by the model wearing it in the ad...but Camilla makes it look so 'cool' here. It's futuristic, yet glam at the same time!
This bright blue Oscar de la Renta dress with pockets is fitting for both her age and a daytime event. The silver Miu Miu shoes were kinda unexpected to go with a dress like this, but together, it looks fabulous.Here she is in another Oscar de la Renta dress. It's kinda cutesy but she looks great in it. I think dark haired girls look beautiful in red. Hilary Swank is also seen wearing this dress on the cover of an issue of In Style magazine this year. However, I think Camilla pulls it off better :)

The dress she wore at The Costume Institute Gala this year has been a hit or miss according to different people. The dress is Gaultier Paris Haute Couture. It's very goddess like IMO. It's actually quite refreshing to see someone who's actually covered up! Finally, a dress that's not strapless, halter, spaghetti strap, plunging neckline or backless. It's not my favourite, but I do like the unique factor of it.
Slightly more casual as this was taken at a Club Monaco event. The jacket is so elegant! I love how she makes the simplest pieces look so good.Something a bit different from all those gowns/cocktail dresses. I think this dress is by Chloe and the shoes are Prada.

It's too bad there aren't many candid photos of her as I'd love to see how her 'casual' style is. I definitely think she dresses in a unique and classy way, based on her fashion choices on the red carpet, fashion show and events unlike *cough* LiLo *cough*. That, or it could be her striking features or her long and lean figure.

Either way, this is a young Hollywood star that I feel has been underrated in terms of her striking looks and fashion sense. What do you think of Camilla Belle's style? What other celebrity do you feel has been underrated in terms of style & beauty?

Been gone for too long...

2008-03-11T20:44:00.006-05:00

I've been in a rut. A shopping and beauty rut to be exact. The never-ending snowstorms in Toronto aren't exactly helping. I mean, who wants to go out and shop when there's a blizzard outside? Also, who would want to stick icy, rock hard things into your eye every morning? I've been living in my glasses for the past 3 months, hence the beauty rut. Good thing my contacts last up to 2 years.

Anyways, here are the pics from the post 4 months ago *smiles sheepishly*

Le SportSac Tokidoki Adios Star BV tote: This side has better character placements and more characters. The other side has like 2 characters only! I guess that's what you get for a discounted bag. At least I got Latte and Cactus Boy! Can't wait to start using it for school come spring! Though this is many people's least favourite tokidoki pattern, it has grown on me because it looks less....childish? That's just mho...

Gerard Darel Pocket Saint Germain 24 heures: Bad picture. Great bag. I love it more and more with each use. The leather is soft and the bag is lightweight unlike Mr. Marc Jacob's bags. The extra pockets and compartments make it much easier to organize my things since the regular Saint Germain had only 1 interior pocket. It has replaced my desire for the Balenciaga motorcycle bag that I wanted ever since I saw an Olsen wearing it back in the day, and saved me $$$. I will definitely get my hands on another GD if I visit Europe. Montreal prices are way too high from what I know.

While I haven't shopped that much...I did get a number of spring items that I'm fairly excited about. I'll keep it in another post so I have more to post about later LOL.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes....(Literally!): Part 1

2008-03-16T17:59:00.006-05:00

Ta-Da! I know...they're not exactly what you think of when you hear 'Pedro Garcia'...no satin, no ribbons....just a plain pair of white pointed toe slingbacks w/ 3 inch heels.

I'm always scared of white items...but these will be a good way to train me to baby my items more...since I tend to be quite rough on shoes. Since I"ll be working in the summer (hopefully), these will be the perfect shoes that'll go with everything.

How much would you pay for...

2008-03-16T18:16:00.006-05:00

patent leather flat sandals?

Ok...so these are by Prada so I know I can't say $50.

Here's my dilemma:
I need a pair of flat sandals for those long summer days of walking around the city...or town.
Comfort: I find thongs incredibly uncomfortable but that seems to be the trend for most flat sandals.
Style: I don't like gladiator sandals nor birkenstocks because I find them ugly (on me at least).
Financial: I can't justify splurging over $100 on flat, nearly material-less shoes. Look at those soles! They'll be gone after a summer or two!
but, I found out that some fancier flat sandals these days cost up to $90 or so at Aldo and Nine West...

hrmm....... and the S.A. said these looked good (ITA). I tried on 4 pairs of shoes and only got the thumbs up for these.

Well, there's still quite a bit of time until summer starts....should I just be patient and wait for another cheaper alternative to come to me?

*HUGE SIGH*

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes... : Part 2

2008-03-18T22:35:00.006-05:00

Please meet my first pair of Miu Miu's: Dark silver flats with gold capped toes and ankle strap.

I haven't worn these out yet but I have a feeling they're going to be my favourite flats because they are sooooooo comfy! No scraping like my other elasticized flats and they actually feel like a shoe instead of a ballet slipper because of the padding and thicker sole. There's also very subtle toe cleavage.
Remember when Kate Bosworth wore this Prada dress and Miu Miu heels to the Costume Institute Gala last May? I saw this pic in a copy of Vogue last year and the shoes must have unconsciously attracted me to them when I saw them on the rack. I guess the 'mere exposure' effect I learned in Psych class really does work!

Although my shoes are from S/S 07, it's a good thing that mary-jane flats are still going strong this spring as shown above from the Chanel Spring 2008 Couture runway. Can't wait to wear mine!

source: style.com