Skincare Savers

Sunday nights are for pampering around these parts.
It usually includes a bath, with or without Ava, might include a mani/pedi and a mask of some sort and often, ends with a fun chick-flick.
Just thinking about it makes me long for the weekend.

Canadian living, especially in the winter months, can be super tough on your skin.

As the years ahem progress, I find I am always on the look-out for products that are geared towards moisturizing. The more, the better.

This winter, albeit mild, has been no different.

I continue to rely on a few tried and true favourites but have added some fun new finds to the mix -
Remember this post?
The Conture skin toning system, which I have been using diligently since early November, makes my skin feel tighter, more toned in problem areas, {read below the chin} and overall, smoother in appearance.
I'm hoping that with continued use, a few stubborn dark spots will continue to lighten up.
So easy to use, and takes just a few moments a day.
Best part? It's painless.

Avene Micellar Water | MUAC Mandelic Acid Toner | MUAC mandelic acid peel | Conture Toning System |
Aveeno Positively Radiant moisturizer | fresh sugar lip scrub | Laneige multiberry yogurt repairing mask 

I've gotten pretty good at using this wee tool - moving it around my entire face as it gently suctions.
Morning + night with a focus on a few key areas including a stubborn bit of melasma on my forehead and the outer edge of my entire face.
The tool is quiet and stays charged forever!
Used with the skincare system contained, it allows the skin to be moist while using and provides a follow up moisturizer to use when done.
I've been letting that soak in and then applying my tried and true basic moisturizer with SPF 15 in the mornings underneath my makeup.
In the evening, once everything comes off, I repeat and then do any additional treatments including a good lip scrub and facial peel a few times a week.
My skin is literally as smooth as a baby's....well, you get the picture.

If you would like to try the Conture system, use code AVAGRACE25 to save 25% on your purchase.
And, while you're at it treat yourself to the laneige mask - {I linked to a fun sampler pack} it smells divine and works just as well to make your skin feel super plump and nourished.
Truth be told though? I want to eat it.

Take care of your skin, it's the only one you've got.
xo

limeapple celebrates 14 years!

One of our favourite Canadian children's wear brands, limeapple is celebrating 14 years in business tomorrow!

For tomorrow, one day only, EVERYTHING on the site is 30% off.

Here are just a few of Ava Grace's favourite pieces some of which she may or may not already own.

"rainbow" bubble hoodie + pant set {$85}

"Carol" sweat top {$15 sale!}

"Luna" Ruffle Hoodie {$50}

"Shania" Jean Jacket {$35 - on sale!}

Shipping to Canada and the U.S. is always free with a minimum $25 order.

Happy Shopping indeed.

And Happy Anniversary limeapple! 

Favourites : Hold Me Company

I have been on the hunt for the perfect make up bag for as long as I can remember.

I needed something sturdy, large enough to fit lots of product for travel and ideally, something that stayed clean or wiped clean easily.

No easy task.

Enter the Hold Me Company.

As pretty as they are functional, these bags fit everything I need and then some.

With large compartments that can house product along with an entirely separate area for make up brushes - it is organization at it's finest.

Bonus points for the dark, rich velvet fabric that wipes down easily.

Extra bonus points for the interior plastic lining that is both pretty {I chose the Ruby Woo print - love!} and impossible to get dirty.

Probably my biggest pet peeve with make up bags of past.

From the website:
The inspiration for the Hold Me Bag came from my personal search for "that one bag" which would hold and organize my cosmetics and brushes, keep everything at a glance, and help save time with my daily make-up routine. After trying many different kinds of makeup bags, it didn't seem like "that bag" was out there, so I decided to create one.

Hold Me bags are modeled after the vintage schoolgirl bookbags of old with a fun design that is super functional.

I may or may not have let it double as an evening bag on a recent work trip. 
It stores everything I need in style, and then some.
The perfect hold everything make up bag.

Enter below for the chance to win your own!
ARV $95.
OPEN TO U.S. RESIDENTS ONLY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!
xo

Fall Ready with Caryl Baker Visage

As the days get cooler, I am a firm believer in embracing change.

Change in your wardrobe.

Your routine.

And even in your choice of makeup - deeper, darker shades for fall are a transitional favourite of mine.

Sharing this look using products from Caryl Baker Visage's limited edition ENCHANTED collection to show you {and myself!} that we shouldn't be afraid of changing it up.

Even if it is only temporarily.

on eyes - "Zephyr", "Ambrosia" "Mist" c/o Caryl Baker Visage
face - "Hydralift" Foundation in Warm Beige + "Delicate" Blush c/o Caryl Baker Visage
lips - "Twig" c/o Caryl Baker Visage 

I also used a new product on my eyelids, before applying shadow. Find it here - the "shadow magnet" preps the delicate eye area making it smooth AND ensuring your shadow lasts all day.
Which it did.

Tell me, do you change up your makeup routine for the cooler months?
Give dark lips a go.
Amazing how different you feel.
Even if it is only temporarily.

xo

Establishing Good Routines with Philips Sonicare

For as long as I can remember, I have struggled with getting Julian to brush his teeth.

There are still days {and he is 14} where I will glance at his teeth across the table at say, lunchtime, and notice, quite clearly, that he has not done so.

The conversation usually goes something like this:

Julian! Did you brush your teeth? 

Yeah, of course I did. 

Julian. I can literally SEE the plaque on your teeth from here. It's disgusting!

A loud laugh.

Followed by a mad dash up the stairs to well, BRUSH HIS TEETH.

Isabella, on the other hand, well, she is pretty much obsessed with brushing her teeth.

She wore braces as a child and as such, is pretty proud of her pearly whites.

She brushes without asking - reminds me when they're almost out of toothpaste.

And on rare days, reminds her brother that high school and girls are just around the corner = 

BRUSH YOUR TEETH. 

So, now that each of them is about to embark on a new adventure in their respective academic careers – one starting high school and the other starting first year university – how to establish solid morning routines that don’t have me chasing them?

Well, to start with, we’ve equipped both of them with alarm-friendly iphones – no need for mama to be around to wake them up. They are in control of their schedule – and that includes ensuring they know how early they need to wake the next morning. And to get to bed at a reasonable hour.

Secondly, we’ve established routines that have them showering the night before vs in the morning AND {especially in Isabella’s case} choosing and laying out their school clothes.

I cannot tell you how much smoother the mornings go.

So, how do you step things up in the oral hygiene department with one girl and  one tooth brushing adverse boy?

Begin with changing up the tools they're currently using making it more fun to brush.

The Philips Sonicare 2 Plaque Control toothbrush is sleek and compact, and makes it easy to reach those back teeth and other hard to reach spots.

From the website:

The new Philips Sonicare Series 2 Plaque Control toothbrushes use patented sonic technology to drive fluid deep between teeth and along the gumline for a thorough, yet gentle clean.

Julian just finds using a power toothbrush SO much easier. And secretly, I think he kind of likes the idea of  a toothbrush that does the work for him. 

In record time.

I have all but stopped reminding him to brush.

#winning

Isabella, whose routine will change nightly based on her aggressive timetable, loves the fact that the Philips Sonicare is so easy to transport. Recharges quickly. And not only makes her teeth look cleaner but she swears she can feel the clean. 

Her morning and evening routine leave her teeth super smooth and plaque-free.

She's happy. I'm happy.

Now that the kids have made the leap, I'm definitely next.

The Philips Sonicare is available in 5 colours - one for each family member. including Calvin.

Suggested retail price is $79.99 - a small investment for this mom's piece of mind.

Philips Sonicare uses dynamic cleaning action and patented sonic technology to gently and effectively reach deep between teeth for a superior clean you can see and feel. Switch to Sonicare 2 Series and remove 6X more plaque than a manual toothbrush.

 Disclosure: This post was brought to you by Philips via Mode Media Canada. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Philips.

Introducing Farbod Barsum

They had me at Rodeo Drive.

Farbod Barsum launched his line of exotic skin handbags and accessories that are nothing shy of luxurious in 2010.

From the website:

Drawing inspiration from his love of architecture and nature, Farbod threads his collection with a balance between structural and organic composition.

The wearable art concept of Barsum bags transforms exceptionally rare materials and adapts them for use in every day life.

Each Farbod Barsum piece is hand-crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Including their materials which are sustainably harvested, dyed in chrome-free tanneries and meeting strict compliance guidelines with the U.S. fish and wildlife department.

All custom hardware is hand cast and polished piece by piece.

With all designs available in a multitude of colours, incredible material combinations and elements that include feathers and swarovski crystals, it was difficult to choose just one favourite piece from the collection.

As an avid collector of clutches, I would have to say the white sparkler below tops my list.

Paired with a simple white or grey gown - it's definitely a conversation piece.

Here are just a few of my other favourites:

Brigitte Clutch

Jackson Briefcase

Madison Duffle Bag & Toiletry Case

Nicole Handbag

Jason Messenger

The Farbod Barsum line is coveted by celebrities and ahem, royalty.

And now, by miss Ava Grace& I.

It would be the perfect addition to our growing handbag collection, n'est pas?

For more information, press and photographs - visit their social media sites here:

instagram

facebook

twitter

Happy Weekend indeed.

xo

My Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks

This might be the first year, in as long as I can remember, that we're not in the states for Nordstrom's annual anniversary sale.

I've been longingly admiring everything on the site and really think this year's inclusions are stellar.

Here is my TOP 10:

accessories

I'm a sucker for accessories as most of you know. A pretty piece like this Chanel-esque camelia pin would add so much drama to a little black turtleneck or simple black blazer.
I need to have it.
I've been starting a collection of Alex + Ani bracelets and love this new coil style.
Lastly, I love a good watch. I already own a silver Michele watch {which I just so happened to purchase at last year's event!} and would love to add this one to my collection. Comes in a multitude of colours.

denim
I am in the process of replacing my denim starting with the basics. I love a good high waisted pair {and hate low-waisted jeans period.end of story} and so couldn't resist this dark indigo version and this black pair. The prices are definitely right.
If you're like me, you keep your jeans for years so really, even a small investment ends up being worth it in the long run.
I'm also on the hunt for the perfect denim skirt. This one might just be it - all about the slightly longer length and vintage feel. I envision it with a high, chunky heeled boot and cozy turtleneck sweater.

a little lace
This is on my list only because I think it's the cutest little shell I've ever seen.
And it's lace. And it has a ribbon. And a scalloped edged bottom.

fall jackets 
On top of hoping to replace my black trench coat, I would love to add a lightweight simple grey one, like this, to my collection. It looks almost like it's a slightly heavier than sweater weight - perfect for fall days in Toronto.
This Michael Kors jacket may just be my favourite piece of all of the items included in this year's sale. The style, the colour AND THE PRICE! It is perfect. Non?

shoes 
And last, but certainly not least, my favourite thing to shop for besides handbags.
I love a patent finish for the fall and although I am not a huge fan of the wedge, I am in LOVE with this Tory Burch version. The navy is so rich as are the other available shades.
And a block heel? Definitely my new go-to for the office. This pair by Franco Sarto are a classic shape at a fabulous price.
I love this brand's shoes for every day wear - super comfortable.

So, tell me, have you shopped this year's sale?
Whadya get?

xo

Favourites : On Rotation

I'm still here.
Days trying to keep up with work + home + children + teenagers + highschool + university selection have been catching up with me.
Everything I do revolves around doing it in the fastest way possible including dressing in basics and keeping my skincare and make up routine equally simple.
Here are a few of my favourites - all are on consistent rotation:

1. Sally Hansen Gel Polish - This has become my go-to. With little, read no, time for self-indulgence, this keeps my nails looking business-ready in minimal time and LASTS. It is a 2-step process - 2 coats of polish followed by one coat of gel.
My colour du jour is red eye. A super wearable red.

2. Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation - When I heard about this product - a foundation and concealer in one, I knew I wanted to try it. If you're like me, you find you end up spending more on concealer than on your fluid foundation! Crazy. 
This product allows me to use it all over, including under eye. Have really been enjoying it. Coverage is superb and the price is not ridiculous.

3. Stila Convertible Colour {Lillium} - This is the only product that keeps popping up over and over. I can't get enough. It provides a dewy glow like no other and especially around this season (when skin gets dry and dull), I love it. Worth the investment.

4. NudeStix Eyebrow Wax - What can I say? This is my FAVOURITE new product. {this from the girl who used to use the cult favourite eyebrow tamer that shall remain nameless but cost more than a few of these products combined} It goes on in a single swipe, can be easily sharpened AND keeps my unruly brows in place all day. 
Love, love. 

5. Pixi eyeshadow/eyeliner pencil - I received this product in a goodie bag from a local Toronto Target event and finally opened it a few weeks ago. To my delight, the goldish colour I received {doesn't seem to be available on the website anymore} was exactly what I was after. One swipe across the lid opens up my eyes and provides a great pop of metallic colour. 

6. Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil - Putting oil ON your face? Yes! Honestly, I can hardly wait until bedtime when I get to use this product. A little goes a long way and my skin eats it up. I will say that it sometimes doesn't get every last bit of makeup off unless you remove first with a micellar cleansing water but the feeling it leaves is beyond compare.  I am using the refining/cleansing version but there are many formulations available. Highly recommend.

7. Caryl Baker Ritual Beauty Lipstick {Desert Rose} - The moment I received this lipstick from the team at Caryl Baker Visage I fell in love with the packaging. A tiny diamond-encrusted lid is removed and a mirror pops into place ready for quick-fixes on the go.
If you're like me, you apply often and everywhere. This lets me do so elegantly and discreetly.

What are your favourite beauty products these days? Anything I must try?

Favourites : Luminess Air

I have seen the look achieved by airbrush makeup numerous times - and always thought that it had to be either impossible to achieve or done by a trained professional. 
I watched advertisements for this or similiar products and just never thought I could do what I was watching with any skill or precision; that I would obviously come off looking the entire wrong colour and ridiculously made up.

When I received the Luminess Air product, I was surprised to find how compact it was. 

I set about learning more about the product, how best to match your own skin tone and the steps required to ensure an even, natural application. 
Honestly? Even once I had read the manual AND watched the instructional DVD, I was still a little intimidated. I am not a professional makeup artist by any stretch of the imagination - 
I set up everything I needed and played with the stylus ensuring it felt comfortable and then proceeded to swatch a few of the shades contained in the starter kit on the lower part of my face. It was simple to quickly discover which shades would work best - one slightly lighter and one the actual shade I was after.
I started with a very thin layer of the moisturizing primer all over my face. 
Well, that was easy enough.
From there, I proceeded to put a few drops of the lighter base into the stylus; I began to spray, making sure that the nozzle was a safe distance away from my face. 
It took a few moments to layer some extra coverage on problem areas {including my forehead where melasma had come and stayed} and a few dark spots that I have on one cheek. 
I then used the slightly darker shade all over.

Nuts for Nudestix

I feel today's post should come with a warning.

NOTE: these products may become addictive.

When Isabella and I started playing with the new Nudestix products? It was tough to tear us away.

Everything is just so, so good.

And easy! 

I swiped the #gobronze metallic pencil across her eyelid in exactly 2 seconds. Played with the lighter shade on top for another second, and voila - a summer bronze smokey eye that will last through water, sweat and whatever else comes her way this season.

Don't even get me started on how pigmented and smooth the lip and cheek pencil is. 

I also used just a wee bit of contour in the form of this sculpting pencil - one of their best-sellers, SO good, the sku sold out. TWICE.

I used a touch on her cheek and on either side of the bridge of her nose. Slowly honing my skills in this department since apparently, contouring is all the rage these days. 

Lastly, if you slip up? Fret not! 
The new clean-up pencil {widely referred to as the "magic eraser"} may just be the best thing to hit your make up case since mascara.

Seriously.