shopping sundays

(Club Monaco Tasha Leggings; photo credit:  www.shopbop.com)

I have been on the hunt for a pair of faux leather leggings for a while.  But never found a pair that I really couldn't pass up.  I found this fabulous pair of jersey leggings which have faux-leather front panels at Club Monaco, one of my favourite stores for classic pieces with an edge.  These faux-leather leggings will be great in the colder months and a great alternative to add some glam to a simple outfit.

on my plate

Thierry chocolaterie patisserie cafe offers beautifully handcrafted chocolates, macarons, pastries, and desserts.  Although there were so many delicious options to choose from, I still knew I wanted to try the macarons!  Unfortunately, we didn't have time to sit down and enjoy our treats at the cafe.  But next time for sure!  

Boy were the macarons ever delicious!   These macarons never made it to a plate.  Instead, they went straight from the box into my stomach.

 

My guilty pleasure is sweets, what's yours?

leopard loving

As of late, I have been on a bit of a leopard kick.  For now, this leopard binge only includes scarves (I'm hoping to try a pair of leopard flats or loafers next.  I'll keep you posted.).  Anyway, I feel like prints are a great way to bring some life to an otherwise dull outfit.  Plus, scarves are a relatively inexpensive pick-me-ups that can pretty much be worn all year round.  Low cost, high impact.  I like it!

Top:  Michael Kors for Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Bottom: H&M

weekend adventures

For me, great weekends include great company, delicious food, and of course a little shopping.

My favourite part of Friday nights is probably dinner.  It's a great way to end off a long week and kick off the weekend.  This Friday involved a great dinner at Suika Izakaya in Vancouver.  This was a much anticipated dinner, as this place is always fully booked (at least whenever I call) and it's been all the rage on Twitter. After hearing great things, I finally got to taste it myself.  I have to say it definitely lived up to the wonderful reviews.  It had a great interior and even better food.  PS. Their Matcha Brulee is amazing!

On Saturday, after making our way downtown to pick up supplies for a DIY project, we stopped by Meat and Bread for some breakfast.  If you haven't been, you must go!  You'll thank me later!  Must haves: porchetta sandwich and potato salad.  

 

Ended off the night at the Canucks game. A 4 to 1 win over the Oilers!  Hockey is always a good way to spend an evening.  Sunday wasn't as eventful, but I definitely enjoyed the R&R in preparation of a busy week ahead.

  

Hope you had a great weekend!  They are never long enough!

sparkle sparkle

I've been looking for the right pair of shoes to add some sparkle to my wardrobe.  Although I'd love a sparkly blazer or skirt, they aren't a realistic addition to my wardrobe since they (very unfortunately) are not work appropriate.  Luckily, I can probably get away with wearing these sparkly flats from Zara to and from work, or at the very least wear them when grabbing lunch or resting my feel from heels.

things to try

Here a few beauty products that I'm hoping to give a try in the coming months:

1. Clarisonic Mia. I really love gadgets.  Actually, I really like anything electronic for that matter.  So naturally I have always wanted to try the the Clarisonic (regular/mia).  The only thing holding me back (other than the price) is my ultra sensitive skin.  I do like the thought that with the Clarisonic, I may no longer need to go out for my regular facial and will be able to accomplish similar results at home!

2. Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua.  I normally sport a fresh face with some mascara but am hoping to expand my horizons by trying out a light weight foundation.  Since its launch, Chanel's Vitalumiere has been getting some great reviews as a lightweight alternative.  I was itching to give it a try during the summer months, but between work, traveling and trying to get as much time in the sun as possible - it slipped down the list.

3. Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara.  I have been getting my eyelashes permed for the past few years, so I've been able to get away with minimal mascara.  I'm all about saving time in the morning, but how can anyone resist a mascara claiming to give you doll lashes?  Mascara only takes a few seconds anyway.  I will have to try this!

on my nails (and a sale!)

My nails have recently been hiding under Essie's Lady Like polish, from their latest collection. A very chic alternative to your run of the mill pink. It's described as "an elegant soft mauve", to which I totally agree. Essie is definitely one of my favorite go-to brands for nail polish.

Best part of all, Essie's polishes are currently half off on transdesign.com (here) for the month of September.

on my plate

Sadly, no picture of the waffle. I'm sure you would know why if you've been to wannawafel. I can't wait to go back!

Anyway, I had to take a picture of their sign so I wouldn't forget where I had that delicious waffle and so I could recommend it to others (because sharing delicious eats is good karma)!

on heavy rotation

I was lemming over the Mulberry Alexa ever since its launch in January 2010. After much deliberating and stalking on net-a-porter, I picked it up on a recent trip to Hong Kong. And like the title of this post suggests, it has been on heavy rotation ever since. Like most Mulberry items, it has a vintage and preppy feel which I adore. Although wearing it as a cross-body bag allows you to shop hands-free, I prefer using the strap for a more polished look. I also use this trick for my Miu Miu bow satchel. Brilliant! It's like two bags in one - I love multipurpose.

PS. Sorry for the unglamorous picture. The workhorse purse is on top of boxes of work.

in my collection

There has been overwhelming love for Hermes Ambre Narguilé in the YouTube community. It's described as a mix between apple pie and cognac. With that description, how could I resist? It smells divine!

If you're like me and need more than a single spritz to be sure you love a fragrance, then head to your local store and request a sample (they're a generous 4oz - amazing!), before committing to a full-size bottle.

(source: http://www.hermes.com)

on my wrist

With a very monochromatic wardrobe, my Hermes clic clac has been getting lots of wear to add a pop of colour. I've been pairing it with this dainty bracelet I recently picked up from Forever 21. Stacking bracelets has proven to be a great way to accessorize when I'm running short on time and don't want to go through the process of thinking options for a necklace, earrings, ring, etc. A stack of bracelets just seems to go with every outfit.

in my shopping bag

Holt Renfrew has partnered with Michael Kors to support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. For a very reasonable $50, this cashmere & wool blend scarf is available in 3 colours: red, camel and grey. A great cause and a beautiful addition to anyone's closet.

in the mail

These Rachel earrings from jewelmint are on their way to me! Oh how I love receiving snail-mail sometimes.

currently coveting

Celine luggage tote. I need this in my life.

(source: http://amethysm.tumblr.com/)

pre-season

Pre-season starts tomorrow! The pin says it all.

in my cup

Ventured into Rocanini on a recent excursion in Steveston Village. Richmond never fails me for good eats/drinks.

recent purchase

Celine-inspired booties. I can never leave Zara empty handed. I can't wait to wear them with Fall right around the corner! With a little over a 3 inch heel, I'm sure they are bound to be a little painful, but I'm a firm believer that for fashion's sake the pain is worth it. Anyway, I think they'll go perfectly with a cozy sweater and some slim fitting pants. Fall is by far my favorite season!