Style Statement with Pandora

So what exactly is a style statement?

I would say it's how you present yourself to the world on a daily basis. 

The items that you gravitate towards when you're shopping. Pieces that instantly inspire others to think "that's so...insert your name".

Personally, I've always leaned towards a combination of items that are able to stand the test of time mixed with those that will likely not make it to next season.

I love old with new.

A crisp, tailored shirt with soft, destroyed denim. 

I guess you could call it classic. With a twist.

Whatever you define your own personal style to be, it should be as unique as you are.

Enter Pandora.

Jewelry that allows you to express yourself. With a twist.

Pandora items pictured:
Tropical Palm Ring, $90
Tropical Palm Necklace, $140
Double Blue Leather Bracelet, $55, charms {$45, $75}
Intricate Lattice Ring, $75
Sterling Silver Bangle - $75, dangle playful dolphin charm, $50
Stackable Rings {alluring brilliant princess/alluring petite brilliant/alluring princess/alluring brilliant marquis}, $75/each

I've been an avid collector for as long as I can remember and my own personal collection includes many sentimental pieces.

I wear a leather wrap bracelet with a single rose charm almost daily; it was given to me by one of my sales reps when I went off on maternity leave with ms. Ava Grace.

I also treasure a black stone ring that I got during Toronto Fashion Week a years back; it's beyond beautiful.

And lastly, how could I not have, the infamous classic silver bracelet filled with charms - each one a reminder of something or someone special.

My accent colour is baby blue, my all time favourite colour.

I can fondly remember each individual charm's story. Who gave it to me. Why. When.

I love that.

Pretty sure my most recent additions were given to me upon the birth of the namesake of this blog from daddy and the older kiddos.

An "A" for Ava.

A sweet baby carriage.

A tiny bootie with a dainty pink stoned flower.

Pandora's new summer collection does not disappoint.

Vivid blues, palm prints and lots of bling.

Just a few more of my favourite things.

The only hard part will be deciding which pieces to choose.

Which one is on your must-have list?

Designed to inspire women to embrace the self-creator within PANDORA is a partner in helping to explore and craft a unique personal story to complement any style, every day.  This is a reflection of PANDORA's mission for more than 30 years – to offer women across the world a beautiful universe of high-quality jewelry products at affordable prices, which combines the modern techniques for high-end jewelry production with centuries-old craftsmanship.  Love, care and attention to detail are bestowed upon each hand-finished piece from start to finish that brings to life the brand's Danish design legacy and artistry while inspiring women to collect, accentuate, layer and showcase their individual style by embracing the Art of You. 

For more information, please visit www.pandoragroup.com. View and shop the collection at www.pandora.net.

Disclosure:

This post was brought to you by PANDORA Jewelry via Mode Media Canada.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of PANDORA. PANDORA provided jewelry for this post.

Fashionista Friday : Valentine's or Anytime

I've never been very big on the romantic side of Valentine's Day but I sure 

do love pink + red everything.

I'll take a date night, any night, and flowers are always welcome.

As would be this little Valentino number. 

Swoon.

dress - Valentino
necklace - Vivienne Westwood
watch - Olivia Burton
clutch - Yves Saint Laurent
lipstick - Dior "Diorific"
shoes - Christian Louboutin 

What to Wear : The Two Piece Swimsuit

Can you tell I have summer vacation on the brain?

This week I'm talking the piece.

With so many options, including a ton of vintage inspired, modest options, I think the two piece might actually make a comeback; particularly with the older and the I wouldn't be caught dead in a bikini set.

Colour Crush : Radiantly Orchid

Pantone's colour of the year for 2014, Radiant Orchid, could just be my favourite yet.

It may be because the Spring seems to be eluding us or the fact that the colour is just so darn pretty; either way, I plan on adding a few fun pieces to my wardrobe.

And soon.

Skirting the Issue : Talking Skirt Length Options

There are so many options out there when it comes to skirts. 

Literally, something for everyone. 

And now that the weather is finally warming up, I am feeling the need to put my trousers away until the fall. 

Friday Fancies : Go Green

Oh, Spring.

I am dreaming of you.

Of coatless days.

Of melting snow.

Of green.

aviators / satchel / necklace / watch /  top / jeans / blazer / wellies

My take on the Globes

I'm just like the next girl + watch the Golden Globes more for the fashion and celebrity ogling than to find out which films + tv shows actually win an award. Although I was thrilled to see Breaking Bad take 2. Love that show. 

Now onto the fashion.

I chose my favourites mostly based on what I might actually choose to wear if I had access to an unlimited budget, stylists and such.

If I had to choose my absolute favourite dress of the night, it would definitely be a toss up between Julianna Margulies black printed Andrew Gn number above {loved her hair, makeup, jewels...just perfection all around} + Maria Menounos' bright pink Max Azria Atelier body conscious number. Seriously in LOVE. 

I so enjoyed seeing all of the pregnant mamas and how gorgeous they all looked starting {and ending} with Olivia Wilde.

Are you kidding me?

She may look better than before was pregnant.

Just gorgeous. 

I looked like this at 3 months. Maybe for like a minute.

And lastly, my not so favourites.

I struggle to understand how one looks at themselves in some of these get-ups and thinks this is the best that they could do for what for their industry, is one of the biggest nights of the year. 

all above photos c/o Vogue U.K.

Julia, why? Why are you wearing what appears to be a Gap shirt under your dress?

Heidi? I have no words. But, this is proof, that even the perfect have their off days. 

Oh Jennifer, I love you so. And usually, all of your fashion choices. But this? Not so much.

And lastly, Zoe, far too much going on with this one. It confuses me and I just don't know where to look.

I cannot wait for the Oscars.

See why I think blogging over 40 is the new black here today!

Closet Update 2014 + A Reader Survey

In 2014, I will...
do my eyes more

wear more pink

mix patterns

splurge on lipstick 

just buy the shoes

turleneck / skirt / coat / necklace / purse / booties / shoes /  naked 3 / ysl lipstick

What are your personal style goals in 2014?
It's about making YOU feel good about yourself. 

In an effort of making this space better this year, would you please take just a moment to fill out this quick reader survey?
Help me make this space more {or less!} of what you want to see.

Click here to take survey

Closes in 10 days.
Thank you so much + Happy Weekend!

Friday Fancies : Holiday Best + A Game of Tag

Let's rename today's post to "things I want in my dream closet" shall we? 

For party time, or any time. 

1. Let's start with this fabulous statement necklace via Accessory Mercado. Glitzy without being overdone and just as perfect with jeans and a white t as it is with the pale pink perfection that is this {on sale!} dress. 

2. The ruffled, satin black number up front needs no words. It is incredible in every way, including it's price. By Marchesa, here. 

3. A pretty tulle skirt is what it will be about for me this holiday season. I can see it with a fluffy, fun knit {via TopShop here} or a bow-tied one, like this by Tory Burch {on sale!}. Black/Pink.

a note on these : I searched everywhere for the pink one above, sadly sold out or only available in the U.K. I may go with the black one which is a perfect midi-length and only $25 at TopShop. 

4. Isn't this pink bowed number the sweetest, softest looking clutch you've ever seen? I would love to add it to my collection. By Valentino, here. {option}

5. And last, but certainly not least, les shoes. I chose 4 that would take me from day to evening seamlessly. 

Clockwise: Zara, BCBG, Charlotte Russe, Gianvito Rossi. 

I was tagged recently by my sweet friend Andrea of Cous Cous and Cork Wedges and since it's been a long while since I played... 

Rules

Share 12 random facts about yourself. 

Answer the 12 questions.

Pass it on

Randomness x 12 

1. I love owls. 

2. I didn't start drinking coffee until I was in my late 20's. Now, I couldn't live without it. My only vice.

3. My other vice used to be diet coke but I gave that up. Sadly. 

4. I collect clutches, sunglasses and designer handbags. Not necessarily in that order.

5. I grew up in a predominantly Jewish Orthodox area. I am not Jewish. I know their traditions better than my own and could choose a Gryfe's bagel out of a line up. No question. I also make a mean latke.

6. I'm a cat person. 

7. I loved giving birth. The whole thing. Hospital, pushing, that first glimpse. Being pregnant? Not so much. 

8. I hate flying. I also hate massages. Or anyone touching my back for that matter.

9. If I had to choose a last meal, it would probably be spaghetti and meatballs. My meatballs.

10. I don't trust girls who don't have any long-term friendships. My first and best friend and I have known each other since we were 3 and a half. She converted to Jewish Orthodoxism. See #5. 

11. I am a daddy's girl. Through and through. 

12. I suffered with terrible migraines all through high school. Thankfully, they are all but gone now. I went to an all girls catholic school. Maybe that had something to do with it?

Q + A

1. What are your favourite things about winter?

Just one. BOOTS!

2. What is your favourite winter outfit?

Jeans, down jacket and ugg boots. It is cold in Toronto! 

3. What is your favourite winter food?

Probably a stew of some sort. Crusty bread. 

4. What is your favourite winter drink?

A steaming cup of coffee. I'm over the pumpkin spice latte. 

5. How do you like your make up in the winter?

Less bronzer, more blush. A darker lip more often. 

6. What are you hoping Santa brings you?

Nothing for me. Hoping he brings Ava a roller skating Dora and Boots. 

7. What is your favourite winter scent?

Evergreen. I miss having a real tree. 

8. What is your favourite winter memory?

Does going away to the Caribbean count?

9. What is your dream way to spend a winters day?

Snow falling outside, warm inside. Everyone home in pj's all day. There may be hot chocolate. 

10. What are the first 3 things that remind you of winter?

Starbucks red cups, boots and seeing your breath on a cold day. A sure sign it's here.

11. What is your favourite winter song?

Feliz Navidad! Always puts me in a good mood. 

12. Finish this sentence.....If I could have one Christmas wish it would be....

that Annie's cancer miraculously disappears. 

IF you're reading this, say a little prayer for her would you? She's amazing. 

I'm tagging just 3 of my favourites:

Christina from The Olive Tree

Cate from Wild Ruffle

Celia from Living my High Heeled Life

Love that statement necklace above? Be sure to enter our group giveaway. We're giving one away!

Happy Weekend! 

Linking up here + here today. 

One Dress :: Two Ways

This season brings so many events; it's great to have pieces in your wardrobe that are as versatile as this little number.

A simple black dress can easily transition from day to night, with minimal effort. 

Opaque tights complete the look + do double duty by keeping you warm. 

Dress used in both looks : Malene Birger Imania {on sale!}
There are so many reasons to love this dress...it's simplicity, it's fuller skirt + my favourite fabric, a beautiful wool crepe. A piece that will stand the test of time.

Day
baseball cap - Forever XXI {I just picked this one up, it's perfect}
necklace - Maurice's own here
jacket - Yigal Azrouel {less expensive option}
crossbody bag - Michael Kors 
booties - Jeffrey Campbell 

Night 
jacket - Etcetera
necklace - Ily Couture
clutch - Monsoon
shoes - Nine West "Charly"

And a PSA to all my Canadian readers re: the above shoes by Nine West. Please note the Canadian price of $135 vs the Zappos price {$62.99} linked above. I reached out to Nine West's customer service department re: the discrepancy {similarly, the product is much less expensive on their own US site as well} and was told that it was due to customs and duty.
More than double? Ahem. 
That's all I will say about that.

Friday Fancies : Sweater Weather

When you live in Toronto, (where really, it's cold for far longer than it is warm) the sweater becomes not just a fashion statement but truly, a must-have layer. 

We swap out t-shirts for sweaters as early as September and don't see our bare arms again until at least April.

I often wonder why when my folks came to this great country they didn't make a long pit-stop in California first.

But then, there's the whole sweater thing. 
I might miss those. 

Clockwise from top left: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9

The entire selection of sweaters above was found via Persunmall. 
There's definitely something for everyone and they've got every trend of the season covered. Black + white, graphic, textured, colourful and classic. 
At $42 or under each {minus pick number one, which happens to be one of my favourites!} and free worldwide shipping on orders of $50 or more,  they're definitely worth checking out.

Linking up here + here today. 

Favourite Things : All Things Yoga

The older I get, the more I appreciate comfort. 

Gone are the days where I feel the need to suffer for fashion. except for shoes, for shoes, I will suffer. Always. 

I love a good quality yoga pant and jacket and quite enjoy my Friday Lululemon days. I also love the zip up sweatshirts by Tuff Athletics available locally at Costco. 

Have you tried them?

Warm, comfy, cheap and they wash incredibly well.

But if I had to choose my top 3? Hands down they would be the items below.

1. Yoga Jeans by Second Denim Co.
Canadian! I have been blessed to have collaborated with their organization and am thankful to have tried their product. I own these {see them here + here} and they are on constant rotation this fall. They literally go with everything! The fit is perfection and they feel more like a legging than a jean. 
I don't even have to unbutton when I go for that second piece of pumpkin pie.
Genius stretch. 
I have my eye on the ones pictured. Leather look but comfy. I'm in.
Available at Jean Machine across Canada + Shopgirls here in Toronto.

2. Juil Sandals
I chose the "heras" in gold. They are so versatile and light enough to pack each time I go to yoga class. I often forget to switch back to my street shoes because I forget that I'm wearing any. Yes, they're that comfy.
Think Birkenstocks with style. 
And, with the added benefit of copper "dots" located at key pressure points that act as a conduit and allow you to stay connected and balanced. Almost like walking barefoot on the grass. 
You can shop for Juil sandals on their website, {here} and at Nordstrom, DSW and ShoeBuy to name but a few U.S. based national retailers. 

3. The Lululemon Headband. 
I literally struggled for years to find a headband that did not give me a headache after an hour of wear. 
These do that with the added benefit of holding back the thickest and unruliest of hair.  
I own the "flyaway tamer" in an array of colors including black, white + purple and never go to yoga or the beach without one.
Loving this new style that is thinner underneath. 
This may call for a visit to the mall this week. 
Find them here and in Lululemon stores nationwide in both Canada and the U.S. 


What is the most comfortable item of clothing/shoes in your closet? 
Yoga Inspired or otherwise.

Disclosure: I was sent a complimentary pair of Juil sandals in exchange for my review. All opinions expressed are honest and strictly my own. 

Friday Fancies : Style Crush

I am contemplating a pair of leather shorts that can easily transition into the fall.

While the length on Ms. Palermo's are far too short for me; I love the look of an airy sweater layered over them. 

The bag adds just the right amount of interest. 

1. While this sweater doesn't share the same high low hemline (which I love) it gives a similar feeling of ease. All about the 3/4 sleeve but not a huge fan of the v-neck. I might layer a round neck tank underneath it. 

2. These Helmut Lang leather shorts are perfection. I love the length, love the drawstring and the washed leather looks so soft and fluid.

The drawstring adds a casual feel and I can easily see these with an opaque tight worn well into the fall. {less expensive options (+ non leather) here + here}

3. Crochet/straw bag. The leather straps on this {on a 50% sale + only left in bright pink} one make it less casual.

4. Leopard print pumps. Because they go with everything. The new neutral? I think so.

5. These tortoise shell sunglasses are a wonderfully flattering shape; I just love the thicker, more substantial frame. And the price is definitely right. 

6. A bold link bracelet via Asos brings a nice pop of gold to this otherwise fairly neutral outfit. 

Are you on the gold bandwagon yet? I find I'm buying less and less silver toned jewelry. 

6. A smaller watch. Different for me as I am all about a large, almost manly style face. 

I love the tortoise accents on this one by Fossil. 

Happy Friday!

Linking this post up here + here.
Winner of the Stuck on You giveaway is Shane Holtby. Congrats Shane! I will email you today. 

Friday Fancies : The Tank Top

Is there anything more versatile than a white tank?

I like the idea of pairing it with a much dressier skirt and adding a fun statement necklace that pops against it's neutral backdrop. 

tank - Roberto Cavalli
skirt - Alice + Olivia {on sale!}
necklace - Blu Bijoux via Max + Chloe
clutch - Marc Jacobs {similar}
shoes - Kristin Cavallari

This look would be perfect for a summer date night. 

Enter to win a pair of yoga jeans here! 

Can you Have it ALL? : Tia + Tamera on Style Network

As a young girl, I don't ever remember thinking I couldn't have it all.

My parents encouraged school, focusing on a career and getting married as late as possible.

My mother truly wanted me to enjoy my life. Enjoy my youth. The carefree days where I could sleep in, go where I wanted, do what I wanted and basically, have no one to think of but myself.

I did work from as early on as I could. 

I loved the freedom having my own money could provide.

I also liked the shoes it could provide. 

I never really dreamed of being a "career woman" but then again, I also never really dreamed of being a wife. Or someone's mother.

I definitely never dreamed of being a stay.at.home wife and mother. 

Sure, I knew that I would probably get married one day. And once I did, I wanted to have children right away. 

I didn't consider the fact that these decisions would impact who I would become as a person and ultimately, what turn my life would take. 

When we first married we were busy with our first home and getting used to living together.
 I had never lived away from home before! Let's face it, I was a huge baby. 

And, just a month later, this baby found out she was going to have a baby.

I was over the moon. And ignorant. Very, very ignorant.

The birth of my first child was the single most important thing that ever happened to me.

I loved Isabella with everything I was. 

And when it came time to return to work after a 6 month maternity leave, I thought my life would end. 

But it didn't.

Life moved along, I worked a challenging and rewarding job and I was happy. 

Somehow, I still managed to clean my own home, do my own laundry and spend every waking moment of my weekend with my baby girl. 
I had what I thought was balance.

source

I never considered staying home.

Not for a moment. 

We were building our life together and wanted the best for our little family.

I needed to work. 

And, if I'm being honest, I think I liked the idea of staying home but it was never really for me.

Fast forward. 

When Isabella was three and a half years old, Julian joined our family.

He rocked my world. 

I was a complete blubbering mess. I cannot put into words how much I loved him. 

When it came time for me to go back to work, {this time after a BLESSED one year maternity leave} I didn't think I could do it. 

Thankfully, he was looked after by my mother for the first year. It made it easier. 

When the time came for him to go to daycare at two years of age, I'm not sure who cried more, him or me. 

I would drop him off. And then cry all the way to work.

But again, I never considered staying home. 

It just wasn't an option.

I worked in corporate management for over 18 years when I found out, quite surprisingly, that I was pregnant with my third baby at 39. 

You can read about it here.

Again, I stayed home for the allotted one year maternity leave. I then extended the leave for an additional six months.

I was smitten with this little one. Again.

But something was different this time. 

I was older. And I knew she would be my last.

I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed my first year with her. Even on no sleep.

Then, like all good things, my extended leave came to an end and I returned to work. 

We hired a live-in nanny this go-around. I thought it would be the perfect solution. 

I was SO wrong. 

Things in the corporate world were just like they had always been.

Fast-paced, busy. I hadn't been there a full week when I had to attend 10 hours of meetings leaving before dark and coming home well past my kid's bedtime.

It upset me. 

Here I was, the woman who was always touted as being able to "do it all". Run a household, look after her children AND hold down a demanding corporate job. 

But guess what?
I just didn't have it in me.

I didn't feel like I had it all anymore.

After all, what exactly does "having it all" really mean?

I resigned after 21 years with the same organization.

You can read all about that here.

Was it an easy decision? No. 

But, it was the best decision I could have made for my family. And for me. 

I know I will return to the work force one day. It's just who I am.

And in the meantime? I started this little blog to keep my creative juices flowing. 

It allows me to dabble in the fashion industry; which I adore. 

While still being able to be home for those I adore more.

I have all I need. 

And I wouldn't want it any other way. 

source

Now, imagine sharing all of these struggles on camera? Not sure how entertaining my life would be but I'm up for a reality show if anyone is interested. Ahem.

Tia + Tamera's 3rd season premieres this Sunday, July 14th at 8pm on The Style Network.

I assure you, any mama juggling house, home, career or family will definitely relate.
That and their wardrobes are pretty amazing.

This article is sponsored by the Style Network.
Image Credit above : Matthias Clamer/The Style Network