Friday Favorites: Weekend Edition

This favourites post is like, months behind therefore the most substantial of them all. I’ve failed at the no shopping attempt – miserably yet I don’t feel humiliation nor do I feel disappointment in my weakness. I’m the one on top with a bunch of awesome sh*t so really financial goals? Whose the real loser here?

That’s what I thought. Bye.

Anyway, I’m trying to do this more often now because I love talking about things I’m obsessing over.

Enjoy

Favorite Essential Purchase

ban.do 2016 Yearly Planner

I’ve always made reminders and notes in my phone like most people with a smart phone at their disposal. Hello – writing is so flip phone era. Not. It is not. I love my phone and I love the option of typing things out but writing is legit – especially if you’re a note taker. It’s classic and it helps you remember things – I assume because of the extra effort it takes – to be honest, when I’m typing into my phone, or typing in general I’m like, driving a car, eating a sandwich, and painting my nails. But not really.

Now that I’ve admitted I’m into this whole planner/agenda craze – I want to stipulate that I’m not spending hours making my own stickers or intricately designing each page. These are the kinds of time consuming tasks I’d like done for me. Enter ban.do. My sister grabbed this for herself and I closely followed suit after seeing all the cheeky stickers, designs, anecdotes, and other girly add ons. I got mine from Chapters but I belive you can purchase them at their online site as well here. (It’s like a girlie girl, a stay at home mom and a Pinterest obsessed decor freak holed up for weeks without showering but the result was an abundance of awesome sh*t you don’t really need instead of body odour, emotional trauma and bitch slapping).

I like how it gives you the month as a whole, a substantial writing area for each day, and a notes section for each month where you can jot down to do lists and plan out your monthly purchases and outfits. People do that right?

It was $25 – acceptable for all the little touches and the authors/contributors idiosyncrasies. I’m currently checking out where I can get more stickers. I’ve crossed over and I as well go HAM with it.

Favorite Beauty Product

Sephora Outrageous Volume Dramatic Volume Mascara

I tried this mascara as a mini travel size and was so into it that I purchased the full tube not long after. As a user of Benefit’s “They’re Real” and Too Faced’s “Better than Sex,” and Dior’s “Diorshow,” – I have to let you in on a little secret. This right here is the business. It’s a fraction of the price (1/2 ish if you want to get fancy) and it transforms your lashes into doll like things that flutter like a butterfly that flew into a cloud of smoke. I can’t. There’s no other way to explain it. It’s like wearing false lashes (which I don’t even pull out for Vegas anymore). I don’t know about you but I like the bombshell lash without the annoyance of applying falsies. It can clump if you’re heavy handed so that wiggle technique needs to be perfected. Overall – huge volume, length, and drama. Get it here.

Favorite Wardrobe Purchases

Aritzia Fall Transition Pieces

I scored each of my Aritzia purchases this past July as part of their annual summer sale. And being the craftly minx that I am – I picked each item with a nod, fist bump, and knowing smirk to the upcoming Fall. I like that they included pretty much everything and not just summer items which are practically useless in August in my opinion. Dreams of Highlands in new jewel toned shades, 70’s flowing fabrics, flared bottoms and bomber jackets are taking up pretty much all the space in my head. Really. I’m over the sun. I actually swore at it the other day. Like overstay your welcome why don’t you? Rude. Anyway, here’s what I got:

Wilfred Beaudry Blouse 

I love this shirt. My sister has it in black with floral detailing and the fit was so flattering I had to purchase my own. It’s light and airy and although it’s a bit of a fit n flare look it’s not too oversized where it would end up dwarfing your body as some tops like this do. The color ( I got Chinook  – a reddish salmon) is perfect for all year round (love having pieces that can sit with the rest of my wardrobe and not feel like they’re being given the side eye the whole time). The shirt retails for $135 which is a little pretentious but let’s face it – Aritizia is an asshole and so are the people who shop there. Well dressed assholes but assholes nonetheless. I got it on sale for $99 – thrifty asshole. Get it here.

Wilfred Richepin Sweater

Light yarn made in Italy (oh you’re soooo fancy) with an oversized fit and classic cut. It’s lightweight so it’s ideal for layering (which I love to do in the Fall/Winter seasons) and the subtle high/lo hem adds a little trend to the otherwise classic look.  Get it here. (I got mine in Bluette)

Wilfred Free Callie Dress

(Currently sold out)

Oh a little bit of intentional crinkle didn’t offend nobody. My favourite part is being able to throw this on for work in the mornings I’m running a little late (read: spent extra time on hair and makeup). It’s again, lightweight – as it debuted for the warmer months, oversized – but not sack like, and has button and a placket down the front that gives it a bit of detail. I’d definitely wear this over jeans in the Fall and go bare for the rest of Summer. I’m already dusting off my Stuart Weitzman’s and faux vests for September. Those boots on the model would be perfect right?

Talula Princely Dress

(Currently sold out)

This jersey dress is so slinky and silky smooth I feel that they could have raised the price point – but not really. Another piece awesome for layering or leaving as is for when it’s warmer. It’s trapeze silhouette with the rounded neck is really feminine and forgiving. I’ve worn this with both a boyfriend style cardigan and a slimmer fit and both are flattering because the dress underneath doesn’t bulk up. The swingy style is my favourite. Perfect excuse for another pair of tall boots.

Wilfred Moulin Dress

I chose this slip dress because of it’s versatility – especially when it comes to layering. The scalloped neckline, intricate lace trim and drapey fabric is so luxe. I chose it in a dusty beige because it’s easy to work into the wardrobe (especially if I’ll be incorporating it into my work attire). Check out the other colors – they’re just as light and pretty. I’d probably throw a boyfriend cardigan or a blazer on top but my favourite vision is with a chunkier sweater and ankle boots or strappy minimalist heels. Can’t wait to test it out. #ootd #hayyy Get it here.

Favorite Shoe

TopShop ‘Leather Kingdon’ Ghillie Flats

The lace up flat trend is definitely going to transition into Fall so I figured investing in a pair or two a little later in the game couldn’t hurt. I loved this style by Topshop.  I got mine from Nordstrom – duh. They come in snake print and silver metallic too – I just wore them and can vouch for the comfort, the craftsmanship, and the amazing color. The red is to die – especially for the Fall. Pretty pleased with myself for scoring these before they sold out again. The price is totally appropriate ($95) for Aquazzura dupes I say. I didn’t want to go out and spluge on the designer brand because there are so many carbon copies it would be pointless – there’s nothing I dislike more than someone coming up to me and asking if I got my Rockstuds from Forever 21 or Bebe. No. Bye. (What?) Anyway, you can get them here.

Favorite Scent

Tom Ford Tabacco Vanille

I was sniffing around Nordstrom and picked this out at the Tom Ford counter after it smacked me in the face and then kissed me. Wow. For those of you who like warmer, muskier scents this is mind blowing. The tobacco adds a hint of smokiness and the vanilla isn’t your typical run of the mill scent reminiscent of Bath and Body works body spray. It’s evocative of a sophisticated wine bar filled with the spicy undertones of men’s cologne.  – the tobacco flower, aromatic spice, and sweet wood is dramatic yet still subtle. I’m infatuated. The bottle is pricey as sh*t and I have yet to make the purchase but this will definitely be my first. Try it here.

Favorite Book

I finished this a couple weeks ago – part of my summer reading list that was brought to my attention by Reese Witherspoon’s Instagram (which she blew up with it might I add). I use Tuebl to download all my iBooks – it’s the best website since Nasty Gal. I won’t be a d*ck and ruin it for you but it’s dark like Gone Girl but with a younger vibe. Lots of switching tenses – which I absolutely love (in my shows too might I add). Definitely worth adding to your book list. Plus – the author is this cool girl and totally humble – she’s on Instagram if you want to check her out. Do.

Favorite Unnecessary Beauty Product

Dior Creme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm

I honestly wanted this for the packaging – no bullsh*t – I’m calling it for what it is. But – once I actually tried it out I can say it was worth it. I love the smell of rose and this has a subtle yet noticeable aroma. The consistency is very solid (think solid perfume) and allows for it to live like 9 lives. Bonus. I don’t know if it has an actual plumping effect like it boasts but I like how smooth it feels on the lips. It’s not sticky, doesn’t leave behind any unsightly residue and it does leave the lips nice and soft after each application. Sold – on not just the packaging but on its soul too. Get it here.

Favorite Nail Polish Shade

Dior Tra La La

My sister and I have compiled quite the impressive collection of these polishes after finding out that they last forever, have the most perfectly shaped brush for one swipe application and come in a nice classic range of colors. I also like how they look on a dressing table, the crow that I am. This is my favorite shade so far – a ballet slipper pink with just a hint of light peach. Year round wearability and it flatters any skin tone. Love. Get it here.

(I included the stock photo because I’ve obviously filtered the first photo a tiny bit – I do feel that it’s more reminiscent of the actual shade when its applied though).

Favorite Photo

We All Scream After Ice Cream

I don’t indulge during the week but once Saturday hits – I’m heading to the nearest frozen yogurt spot or gelato dispensary. And let’s be honest – I’m not above ice cream in Winter either.

Happy Weekend

xo

Friday Favorites: Weekend Edition

I’m spending my Sunday editing some new purchase posts, only getting out of bed to work out, and giggling with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey. Hope your’s is just as Hashtag #lazysunday

Favorite Item

Mirrored Tray

My sister got me this tray for Christmas. I was looking for a mirrored tray for my perfumes and vanity decor and she went a step farther by having it monogrammed. Amazing. It looks super high brow and I’m not ashamed. The size is perfect for holding what I wanted to display…

You can shop a similar one here – Mirrored Dresser Top Trays

Favorite Look

Waves

I haven’t used my Sultra wand since this summer and I can’t seem to comprehend why I retired it for so long. I was getting a little tired of my hairstyle – I almost always curl it at the ends for fullness – so I decided to switch it up. So pleased. Beach waves never go out of style, especially when you don’t want to look too overdone. I already have a full of face of makeup so keeping the hair a little more casual is a nice balance. The wand looks intimidating at first but it’s become second nature to me. I usually wrap my hair around a couple times and then leave the ends so that I don’t end up looking like Curly Sue (Google her).

You can try it here – Sultra Waving Wand 

Favorite Beauty Product

Sephora Collection Flatter Yourself Contouring Brush Set

I ordered this brush set a couple weeks ago and was going to do a full review but haven’t had enough time to really get up close and personal. It was an exclusive and I’m a sucker for an exclusive – mainly because I get anxiety over the fact that there is a product out there that if not purchased, will be out of reach forever. These are the types of regrets I simply cannot live with. Anyway, the bristles are remarkably soft and high quality and the set of 3 is complimentary and nice for creating a basic contour (as well as buffing and blending liquid makeup). Not to mention, they come with blotting papers, a sleek little pouch and a contour guide. Overall, it contains a stippling brush, a buffing brush, and and angled blush brush. I’m getting used to using the stippling brush because I’ve never used one before, but the buffing and blush brushes I can work with like a freaking pro. Love.

You can shop it here – Sephora Collection Flatter Yourself Contouring Brush Set

Favorite Purchase

Wildfox Onesie

No you shut YOUR mouth. Yeah. I got a onesie with cat ears on the hood. What startingly amazing thing have you done recently?

Favorite Food

Teavana

I, along with most of the female population, have vowed to get back into my healthy eating habits for the new year. I’m not into resolutions but I figured now was as good a time as any to detox by body after I indulged the sh*t out of Christmas. I started feeling a little Chipmunk like after hoarding every treat placed in front of me. Ya feel me? So – in addition to upping my workouts and monitoring my food intake, I’ve started hitting up loose tea. In no way am I ridiculous enough to believe that this is a food replacement (refer to: Favorite Food) but I didn’t feel like tweaking the title.  I picked up a fancy little holiday set right before Christmas and am actually shocked at how much they satisfy my sweet tooth. The set embraces the scents and tastes of the holiday season, and you can’t beat pumpkin spice and peppermint in one setting. Specifically, it contains 4 holiday teas which consist of Pumpkin Spice Brûlée, White Chocolate Peppermint, Chococaramel Sea Salt, and Spiced Apple Cider. I haven’t tried them all but so far I love the white chocolate peppermint and chococaramel sea salt. Probably because they’re the most indulgent sounding. Pathetic.

I don’t believe that this set is still available but you can get a ton of similar ones here – www.teavana.com

Favorite Pastime

Voraciously Reading

I’ve been trying to catch up on all the books sitting in my iBookshelf. I download them like they’re going to vanish within seconds – big up to purchase anxiety, yet again. Although I love reading on my iPad, there are some books I feel are worth buying in physical form. Coffee table books and books having to do with style and fashion are a must have tangible good. They look pretty and class up the joint, plus you can mark off and go back to them without having to scroll through hundreds of pages. I’d been wanting to read Sophia Amoroso’s #girlboss for months now. I’ve been a loyal Nasty Gal investor (read – shopper) and am always open to a little inspiration and advice, especially from such a powerhouse. I’m halfway in and am marking off pages worthy of anecdotes that need to be drilled into my head. Her uhf*ckwithable attitude is infectious, I’ll make sure to do a book report review when I’m done. I also purchased The Glitter Plan, which is Pam Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor’s rise to infamy with Juicy Couture. Since Juicy is now fading into the outlet abyss and they’ve recently launched their new, more high endline – Pam & Gela, I was interested in reading their memoir. Yes Please is another can’t miss read. I am crushing hard on Amy Poehler. She is genuinely funny and offers up some really deep musings that you have to read a couple times to ensure she isn’t just f*cking with you. Idol status. Those are the 3 books I’ve started reading so far. I’ve also just purchased Serena by Ron Rash , Dead Stars by Bruce Wagner, and Paper Towns by John Green. There isn’t enough time in the day…

Here’s a list of book adaptations hitting the big screen this year (and as everyone knows – the book is always better than the movie).  21 Books to Read Before They Hit The Big Screen in 2015

Favorite Outfit

Ripped Denim

Excuse the shitty photo quality. I was just getting home from work and realized I didn’t take advantage of the cloudless day for a superior outfit pic. These black skinnies are from Zara (I believe I purchased them back in October). They’re not as skinny in the shin area, and I find that a lot of denim fails me in this area because I have smaller shins. Other than J Brand which fit like second skin, a lot of denim I’ve tried and even purchased falls short here. Anyway, the wash and the strategic shreds are great. I actually DIY expanded the knee rips (with my own two hands and all) so that they’re a little more edgy and not as clean looking. Paired them with a pair of Jeffrey Campbell lace up flats (mimicked off Aquazurra) and had a bit of Kurt Cobain meets Olivia Palermo.

Happy Weekend

xo