What to Wear : The Perfect Black Pump

It's true what they say, well, what I say - sometimes, when you're shopping and see something perfect, even when you don't really need it at that exact moment, sometimes, it is best to just grab it.

Or regret it later.

Here I was happily trekking along through life, thinking I had plenty of good black pumps.

Occasionally, I would see a pair I liked and thought, oh no, I don't need those, I have LOTS of black pumps.

But then, it happened.

I reached for pair after pair only to find that some should have been donated or disposed of long ago, others were either too high for the office or too dressy. Others still were open-toed when I needed closed. Or patent, when I needed plain.

It left me realizing that you can never have too much of a good thing.

Here is what perfection in said shoe looks like:

Jimmy Choo "Abel"

It is the shoe that all other pumps are striving to be.

The perfect point, not too round, not too pointy. Beautifully cut. And with a heel height of just under 4'", they're comfortable all day, and if need be all night, long.

Now, I realize that a $600+ plus shoe is not always in the budget and more importantly, it's not one that you would want to wear to the office on a daily basis. 

And ruin.

And potentially cry over.

I did eventually find a good selection of similiar styles, all more reasonably priced, and chose these + these {here in Canada} for my own closet.
Now, I feel ready to face the Spring.

one  | two | three |  four | five |  six | seven | eight

Who makes your favourite black pump?

Southbound

One more sleep.

I don't think I've ever needed a break as much as I do right now.

Between working, blogging, chauffeuring, party planning and in general, everything doing, I am SO looking forward to a week of doing nothing.

We are off to Varadero first thing tomorrow morning - the whole lot of us! The kids are super-excited, they've never been to an all-inclusive resort.

I think they're most excited to eat and drink whatever they want, whenever they want.

I'm just excited to wear a variation of this outfit every.single.day

and also for the margaritas - I cannot tell a lie.

Valentine's Ready with Third Love

In my {ahem} younger days, I was completely crazy for lingerie. 

The lacier {and often racier} the better.

Today, I still feel that what you wear underneath your outfit is just as important as what you wear on the outside. Only now, the perfect fit and comfort is key.

When ThirdLove recently launched Canadian shipping on their site, I was more than a little curious to try out their product. 

Very well priced with lots of fun options to choose from - I decided to give a tried and true neutral front-closure push up bra, aptly named "the evolve", a try alongside a few of their basic thongs. 

How I Style Halloween with coupons.com

I love the Fall season and everything that goes with it - especially Halloween.

Every year, for as long as I can remember, I have gone all out with my kid's costumes.

To this day, kids from Isabella's elementary school remember and talk about her costumes - usually put together using simple items we found at home.

She was a punk rock ballerina one year, complete with ripped tights and black tutu. Another year, a snow princess {looong before the Frozen pandemonium} with dangling snowflake earrings and a sparkle-filled face. 

Halloween morning has always been a big deal around here.

This year will be no different.

I have a few fun ideas under my hat for ms. Izzy who is by far the most difficult to get ready - at 16, you would think we would be done with all this.

But, when your child basically goes to school at Fame, all of the kids in the program go crazy - which I kind of love. Her and a close friend typically dress the same and/or complimentary; I'm kinda loving the idea of Rosie the Riveter for the girls this year.

denim jumpsuit {use code here to get free shipping on $100+) / bandana / blush / lipstick / boots 

Kinda fun non?
Get lots of other great Halloween ideas at The Good Stuff, coupons.com's own on-line magazine. 
And while you're there, enter the coupons.com Halloween Creepstakes for your chance at $100/day prizes + a Grand Prize of  $3000! Ends October 31st. 

What are your little goblins wearing this year?
Any fabulous ideas for 2 we want to look cool but also cute sixteen year old girls?

Winner of the Soprano Bertotti Handbags giveaway is Kari Crum. Congrats! I have emailed you. 

What to Wear : Job Interview Ready

By now you know that this mama has found herself back at work as a few weeks ago.
In the days leading up to job interviews, I found myself somewhat ill prepared as it related to having appropriate clothing for the corporate work space. 

After being home for 4 years, everything I now owned was either too casual, too dressy or just plain too old. 

I needed to update my wardrobe with easy pieces that could work for the interview process and later, easily transition into everyday work wear without breaking the bank. 

Now, having worked corporately for over 20 years in the telecommunications industry, and watching corporate attire get less and less formal over the years, I struggled with how to go. 

For this, I recommend exploring the opportunity, the organization and the role itself. 

Below, I've given a few examples of what you might wear depending on the type of opportunity. A guideline if you will. 

What to Wear : The One Piece Swimsuit

I'm just gonna say it. 

I think my bikini days are over.

Whew. That feels better.

Seriously. 

I wore a bikini {albeit a modest one} on vacation last year and just wasn't feeling it anymore. 

And by feeling it, I mean I wasn't my usual 23 year old  33 year old  43 year old self in it.

I have had my share of teeny bikinis. 

And those days were oh so good.

But now? Now a fabulous one piece makes this mama feel like I can do the things I now need to do on the beach {that is, not lounge even for a minute} and feel comfortable doing them.

Gone are the Speedo boring one piece days of old.

Now, I find there is more choice, colour, print and style than any one girl could possibly need. 
Or at least enough to pick up one printed, one simple black, one black + white and one brightly hued suit to suit well, anybody.

The Printed Suit

Even when it comes to swimwear, no one gets floral like Ted Baker. Is it just me or are the two flowered pretties more like works of art than swimsuits? one + two

A palm tree print for the beach? Sign me up. So much fun + available here.

This leopard printed suit has built-in tummy control as if the sheer vavavoom factor wasn't enough. Simple black sides make it slimming through the mid-section. 

If I could only choose one designer to choose every swimsuit I would ever buy from again? Definitely, Tory Burch. I've included one basic alongside this one {aptly named The Baja} and would like nothing more than to add both to my closet. 

The Simple Black Suit

If you don't have a single full piece {or a single bathing suit for that matter!}, I would go with a simple black, well-fitting suit first. My current favourite is by Shabby Apple it definitely gets more wear than all of my others combined. 

I love the one shouldered maillot by Tory Burch. {here}

I love this vintage style. 

But I really, really love this cut-out version. Of course it had to be the costliest one of the bunch. I find that always happens to me. Anyone else?

The Black and White Suit
Today makes the 5th time I have checked the Canadian Top Shop store on-line for this here little scalloped number. Why is there no swimwear listed yet? I don't get it. But I need this suit. And I think at $72 is pretty good value for such a classic piece.

I cannot get over how incredible this graphic print by Suboo is. Similiarly, the price is a little incredible but I think it's one of those "I'll have it forever" pieces. Find it here.
Polka dots? Yes please. Also terrific value for what looks like an incredibly well made piece.
Doesn't this look like something Madonna would have worn on her Gaultier tour? Love the structure of it + the fun mesh detail. Available here.
And lastly, this striped number is another one I've been on the hunt for. Ready for this? $24.95
Available at H + M. Although not yet in Canada. Of course.

The Brightly Hued Suit

I don't normally do yellow but this suit had me at the bow. Sadly, it looks like it is no longer available. By Miu Miu {here} This one by Juicy Couture is a cute option. And on sale.
I am not sure I could actually get into the water in this beauty but the colour and detail are just beyond. By Gottex, here.

Fringe is big this season, why not try it on bright pink swimsuit? Also available in a pretty blue. At this price, it might not be unreasonable to get both colours.
An ombre suit? Yes please. This one is appropriately called "The Goddess". {on sale!}
And lastly, a classic bandeau in red. Amazing if you're dark haired in my humble opinion. This one is another of the "miracle suits". Has anyone tried one? I am very curious if they are worth the extra dollars.

So are you a one or a two piece girl?

Friday Fancies : Flower Power

Although Spring still evades us here in Toronto, doesn't mean I can't dream of pretty floral dresses. 
And in my oh so humble opinion, no one does it better than Ted Baker. 

Look 1 : dress / shoes / clutch
Look 2: dress / shoes / clutch
Look 3: dress / shoes / clutch

What to Wear : Europe in the Spring

When I was turning 16, my older brother surprised me with a trip to N.Y.C. for the day. 

We flew out early morning, ate bagels in a deli for breakfast, shopped all day and flew back late that night. 

I'll never forget my then grade 10 english teacher writing back to me in my journal..."there is nothing like N.Y.C. in the Spring".

It resonated with me because she was so right. 

Not just New York, but any travel in the Spring brings an incredible newness. 

A feeling of starting over. 

This year, in less than 10 days actually, my little Ava and I will experience Croatia in the Spring. 

I look forward to feeling that same feeling of newness. Of excitement.

And here is what I plan to be wearing. 

I mean, it is Europe after all. 

Inside the Fashion Blogger's Closet

If you follow more than a few fashion blog's, you might see that often times, they get it so right.

Certain items become not just popular, but often coveted and sometimes, on rare occasions? Sold out. 

Recently, myself and a fellow Toronto based blogger, Jane from Toronto Shopaholic, were chatting at Toronto Fashion Week about this very thing and how crazy it is. 

It truly amazes me almost daily how strong the influence of a fashion blogger can be.

This is 40 : Lisa from Peridot Skys

As I sat down to prepare this week's feature, I began to think about when exactly I "met" Lisa through the blogging world. And how exactly.

It's funny.

Sometimes, it can be a link up that brings two bloggers together, a giveaway that you just have to enter {and all of Lisa's fall into this category} or a similiarity between the two of you that just can't be ignored.

I think the latter is how our friendship came to be.

I think know that we would be fast friends IRL. 

And very, very dangerous shopping partners. 

Welcome Lisa from Peridot Skys. 

Make a Statement with readers.com

If you're like me, you like to have fun with changing up your look.

I rarely keep the same hair colour, style or cut for long. 

I love to experiment.

Enter the readers.com "Make A Statement" collection.

Readers in fun, bold patterns + styles meant to well, make a statement.

Spring Wish List

Let's be honest.

Anyone who lives anywhere near where I do isn't thinking Spring is coming anytime soon.

But a girl can dream.

This Spring, more than any other, is pulling me towards pretty shades. 

I want to abandon black + grey.

Or at least push them as far back into my closet as possible. 

This Spring, I'm focusing on picking up just a few classic pieces that will keep me on trend but also stand the test of time. 
Yes, the Chanel handbag is a wish list item that may not be in my closet until next Spring {or the one after that} but I have been semi on the hunt through various consignment shops. I know the right one will come along soon. 

1. It's all about the midi skirt for me this season and into the summer. I hope to add a pocket leather one, like this to my collection along with a few pastel hued ones like the pink one above {find it here}. I am in love with the Tibi. Not so much with the price. 

2. One perfectly checked pink and black blazer. Thank you Top Shop.

3. I need to replace my gold watch and have been eyeing this one by Kate Spade. I love how simple it is and the face is nice and large, just how I like them.

4. I'm trying to move away from reaching for a statement necklace and rather, start outfitting my wrist with pretties like these. A dainty bowed bangle {here} + a stunning pastel-hued cuff {here}.

5. There it is again. It's eyeing me. 

6. I've already picked up the shoes I wanted for this coming season. Just yesterday, I found these d'orsay like shoes at Target. Ridiculously cute. They will not last so if you're looking, get them now. 
I also finally {!} picked up a peep toe bootie. These are by Sole Society and are exactly what I was looking for. They don't seem to be available in black anymore but they have other colours still in stock. Great deal! 

7. And lastly, I added one of these YSL babies to my collection and all the rave? Sadly, true. Pricey but my favourite lipstick ever. I knew that would happen. I am contemplating a bright pink like this one. 

So, do tell, what are you shopping for this Spring?

Prom Ready with JenJenHouse

Although my Isabella is a few years away from prom thank God just yet, I do have a lot of friends whose older children are preparing this year.

One of them, a dear friend of mine, came over just last week in a panic about which dress her daughter should choose. She brought her along {such a great kid} and honestly, she was almost distraught. 

Why you ask? Well, to start with, the senior girls have created a facebook page whereby each of them must share a photograph of chosen prom dress the moment they purchase it. Not while they are considering purchasing it but only when the deal is done. 

God forbid you change your mind. This can't happen. 

Also, I stalked said page. And every dress? $500+ at minimum!

I know that for my own daughter, I would scour the internet to ensure I got what she wanted at the fairest price possible.

Enter JenJenHouse.

Sweet Valentine

Happy Valentine's Day sweethearts! 

I know this day is commercialized. I know it's almost a made up holiday.

But really. Any excuse to overdo it in the red, pink + heart department? 

I am in. 

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!

What I Wore : A little Sparkle

Maybe it's much too early in the game

Ah, but I thought I'd ask you just the same

What are you doing New Year's

New Year's Eve?

This is one of my very favourite songs. And what I think is the greatest voice of all time.

It always makes me smile + I still can't get through We've only just Begun without crying.

But today? Today is about sparkle.

One of my other favourite things. 

top - c/o everbuying.com | blazer - c/o everbuying.com | tulle skirt - c/o everbuying.com
bracelet - J. Crew | clutch - Banana Republic {not current : option}
shoes - Calvin Klein {no longer available : similar}

 The entire look {minus accessories + shoes} is via everbuying.com A new.to.me site that offers 

on-trend fashion for less.

Read : this entire look came in at about $50.

Definitely worth checking out.

Here's wishing each of you a little sparkle this New Year's Eve.

Disclosure: I received the above items at no charge in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.

Looking Back on What I Wore

I get asked quite often why I blog.

The answer is, I blog for me. 

I love it.

It gives me something that is all mine + it's an amazing creative outlet.

Outfit photos? 

I wrote about it here when I looked back at last year's What I Wore posts.

My reasons are still the same. 
And I'm still having just as much fun. 

Fun Facts
readers favourite : camel honeycomb sweater + black pants
most popular look on facebook : black + white chevron dress 
times I wore my mama's vintage : 4
most asked about pieces : striped midi skirt + black one piece jumpsuit
times I almost froze while taking photos : 3
look I didn't plan to post + readers loved : cream blouse + black jeans
instagram favourite : dove grey full length dress
times I wore sunglasses : 18
most commented on non-giveaway post : blue DVF vintage dress
times my neighbours wondered what the heck I was doing : 36
my personal favourite : grey silk dress, cream leather + metallic

Thank you for staying along on this journey! 
Happy it's the last weekend before Christmas Friday 

Linking this post up here.

What I Wore : The Henkaa Sakura Dress

Just like all of us, I often struggle with what to wear to the numerous holiday functions at this time of year.

From office parties in the daytime, to cocktail parties that are dressy but not "too dressy", to full out, full scale party.all.night New Year's galas. 

Could one dress really do it all? And keep me looking fabulous throughout?

You be the judge. 

Look 1 : the office party or daytime luncheon

dress {in all 3 looks} - c/o Henkaa
sweater - c/o MinkPink

 Look 2: the cocktail party

brooch - c/o Henkaa
sash - c/o Henkaa
bracelet - local boutique {similiar here}

Look 3: New Year's Eve gala 

necklace - c/o Style Lately 
bracelet - J. Crew {30% off!}

The Henkaa Sakura Dress transitions easily from day to night and from casual to all out done up in mere seconds. 

I love the dove grey shade as it works perfectly with items I already own.

And, the best part of all? One dress at $168.

Check out their website, here for a fun video showing you how to change up this dress. I may or may not have watched it about 10x. 

Linking up here:

Because Shanna Said So

The Pleated Poppy

Get Your Pretty On
Simply Lulu Style
Glamamom

Disclosure: I received a Henkaa dress at no charge from Lotus Leaf P.R. for the purpose of this review. All opinions are strictly my own.