IF TAS WAS A...

BEAUTIFUL ABSTRACT PAINTING.

She would be delicate with soft lines, but not lacking in warm and vibrant hues. 

 Texture and Tas go hand in hand, like the acrylic piece featured here.

It takes time to really know and find all the layers and hidden history found within. 

The yellows and reds draw you in and that grey area always makes you wonder.

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TURN UP THE HEAT

No really, turn up the heat, It's cold! 

Plus, unless you're one of the lucky ones that are heading south

for the winter,

you'll need to

 up the temperature

 inside in

order to wear this amazing

 $11.99 dress from Forever 21.

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GET YOUR GLITTER ON

For my more mature dolls

                                                                                                                                                                 at $15 (on sale at http://www.forever21.com/) 

this rich aubergine sequin tunic is

 a non-comittal way of doing glam for the season. You throw on this tunic with some leggings and heels. You'll be able to concentrate on having fun instead of worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.

For my younger dolls, this is a $15 dress, put it on with some hot platforms and

 dip it 'til dawn.

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FEATHER WEATHER

Looking for an alternative to your drab, black, wool, winter, floor length evening coat? Check out Forever 21's hommage to plumage for $47.00.

Maybe it's the idea of being a flirty bird that is drawing me to this eccentric feather capelet (broach included), I'm not quite sure... I can hear the words of my absolute favorite shopping accomplice now - "where are you going in that?" ; to which I would respond "nowhere, anywhere, emotional purchase, I don't know what else to say".  DO IT. LOVE IT. 

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LOOK OF THE WEEK

Too many looks, so little time.

 Meet Manuella

my Munich look of the week. 

 In her blue fox hoodie and skinny SEVEN jeans she made me look twice, but it was her Chanel bag and blue suede shoes that sealed the deal. 

Effortless beauty with a huge smile.

LOVE IT, DO IT.

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EVER HAVE HAVDALAH?

Wandering through Winner's seasonal toy department on Front Street West, I stumbled upon a lovely little wooden toy set.  When I moved in closer to check the details, the box read something like-

Celebrate the end of the Sabbath with this wonderful kid’s Havdalah Set. Crafted from wood and perfectly sized for little hands, the set comes with Kiddush Wine, a goblet, a braided candle, and incense holder or bisamim and a tray. A wonderful way to introduce children to Jewish culture and heritage.

Priced at $24.99 from a regular $45.00, this would make a

beautiful holiday gift.

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FRONT STREET FASHION

I was sipping my Americano at Lettieri Espresso Bar when in my peripheral I spotted something fabulous. 

Meet  Cheree VanDyk.

  I had to introduce myself and get her story.  She's a member of the famous Gilda's Club in Toronto (Cancer Recovery Center at 110 Lombard St).

When she's not taking in Fashion shows where she rubs shoulders with the likes of Jeannie Becker, and the gift bags include stylista favorites like D&G;  she's taking dance, art, and cooking lessons.

 As she answered my questions with enthusiasm I took her in from head to toe.

 Houndstooth newsboy- check

Smoky Eyes- check 

Vintage Mink- check

Leopard Mini- check

Black leggings and uggs- check

 Teacup pup named Phoebe (the love of her life)- check

Cheree is an inspiration to us all, as she is a woman of a particular age, she "feels like 24".  When a stranger of the same age group made reference to one of her mini-skirt ensembles by sarcastically saying "YOU look ready for Spring..." she simply replied

"I'm ready for

 ANYTHING daaahhhhling".

LOVE IT.

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I'M NOT A "BALLERINA FLAT" KINDA GIRL

Deep within my swarovski crystal encrusted heart, lies an athelete. 

A woman who (pre-motherhood) spent endless hours in the gym and yoga studios.  

Now I can't do that, so I walk. 

And when I walk, I want to look cute.  

zoe &zac, "fresh green fashion" (Payless Shoes) have made the simplest lace-up 'Mulberry' booties available in black and sand for $50.  

It features recyclable everything from the laces to the rubber soles. 

 I know Payless isn't for everyone, but suck it up and check out the BOGO event-50% off the 2nd pair. 

I guarantee you'll run into someone else you know who "never shops there":) 

DO IT. LOVE IT.

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LOOK OF THE WEEK

An outfit named
 "Colotta"
and
 "Vinny"

http://www.bluefly.com/Modern-Vintage-taupe-leather-Vinny-tall-boots/cat200058/301999201/detail.fly

In a sea of designer denim and black outfits (not that there's anything wrong with that), I saw Aura...yes really, that's her name.  Looking ravishing in this DVF (Diane Von Furstenburg) 'Colotta' shift with knee-high taupe 'Vinny' boots from Modern Vintage.

This incredibly sultry, yet humble European beauty inspired me on the spot to create a LOOK OF THE WEEK.

FYI-Colotta is off the market, but Vinny is still available (50%off at Bluefly)

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YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE A STAR, BABY...

Every now and then I fall in love with a fantasy item that does not logically fit anywhere into my world.  This OTT white faux fur from Rihanna's new video put me under a spell. 

I was beyond thrilled when I spotted this vintage look-a-like at Antiques of St. Lawrence! (92 Front  St. East)

I held my breath, closed my eyes and searched for the yellow tag...75.00$. Love it.

 Now all I need is a recording contract and a time machine.

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V-NECK AFFIRMATIONS

For about 10$ you can have your clothing recite your daily affirmations for you.

Bought it, love it. Forever 21.

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WHAT ARE LITTLE TOYS MADE OF?

Melissa and Doug make the BEST wooden toys.

My son has one similar to the one featured here (for kids over 4yrs). He spent many afternoons putting it together and taking it apart.

Oh, and it doesn't hurt that wooden toys are a charming addition to any well put together stylish home. Line a few up on the shelf for all to enjoy.

On sale at Winners for $19.99. Regular retail $29.99. 

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STARBUCKS ADJACENT

It's a sleepy Sunday morning and you need a pick-me-up. 
If I told you that a comfortable cafe with great coffee,
gorgeous friendly staff,
beautiful contemporary art, (http://www.rowenasart.com/
tables outside,
vip in the back corner,
and Dufflet pastries existed,
would you believe me?

Well, Lettieri on Front is all that and more. The people watching is incredible!  The St. Lawrence Market area is surprisingly crawling with a full range of fashionistas (and a few fashion don'ts).  Lettieri is stylish AND family friendly, often a hard combination to find.
http://www.lettiericafe.com/locations_stlawrence.htm Pin It

THE CLOSER

Hmmmmmmmm, oh sorry, I was just thinking about the first time I caught the scent of  BURBERRY TOUCH sliding into bed next to me....wow.  This magnificent Eau de Toilette ($25-$70) is an absolute deal closer for my husband. I've never been one for a woodsy aroma, but this one has me every time. 

Now that Sephora is north of the border you can take advantage of convenient on line shopping. Anything over $50 is free shipping! 

DO IT,  LOVE IT.

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TOP TEN UNDER TEN

       

OBIKWA CAB SAUV $9.95, J.P. CHENET CAB SYRAH $9.95, CONCHA Y TORO FONTERA CAB SAUV $9.95, FARNESE MONTEPULCIANO CAB SAUV $9.95, FUZION SHIRAZ MALBEC $7.45

 BAREFOOT CELLARS SHIRAZ $9.95, 20 BEES CAB MERLOT $9.95, TWO OCEANS CAB SAUV/MERLOT $9.95, WOLF BLASS CABERNET SAUVINGNON $9.85

 BERINGER PINOT GRIGIO $9.95

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ART 'DECO'LLETAGE

Ok 'House of Harlow 1960' (Left, Leather Stations Necklace $79.00usd) is HOT (love you Nicole Richie!)

BUT, if you crave the art deco look at a fraction of the price, try this

necklace from Forever 21(Right $17.80cad). 

 What better way to pay hommage to the twins, than with black laquered rectangles that demand attention?  

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UNDERNEATH IT ALL

When I was younger I tried to impress a chosen few with my matchy matchy underwear. 

 Now that I'm older, I realize that
contrast and quality is
 ALWAYS IN STYLE.

Run don't walk to your local Winner's to scoop up Calvin Klein push up bras (avail. up to a DD!)
regular $42.00 on sale for $16.99.

And CKU seamless undies with lace detail regular $15.00 on sale for $5.99.

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LOOKING FOR A BLOWDRY IN BRAMPTON?

Nestled on a historic stretch of Queen Street West in Brampton, Ontario is Radiance Beauty Salon.  If you're looking for a relaxing shampoo and blowdry, or looking to discuss a few hot topics while your hair processes, this is the place.  The owner, Pansy, is a seasoned veteran in the business and insists on a traditional one on one relationship with each person on her extensive client list.  The salon offers a cozy eclectic vibe as it is the main floor of renovated character home.  

The irresistable charm that is 'Radiance' has even tempted the odd celebrity to peek in to say hello.(Not that I'm one to name drop, but Taye Diggs and Trey Anthony:)

Right now you can get a shampoo/blowdry for $25, a cut and style starting at $40,  and a relaxer for an unheard of $37.

RADIANCE

259 QUEEN ST WEST

9058749277

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I LOVE THESE JEANS

How you could possibly maintain your "Rich and Skinny" status when you've just purchased a pair of  jeans  for $280.00 BEFORE tax?!(http://www.rainbowjeans.com/) 

   Simple, just slip into a pair of  skinny jeans from Forever 21 for $17.50( pictured on the left http://www.forever21.com/). FYI- they look hotter on us non-skinny girls and THAT'S rich.

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EVERYONE LOVES A 'BRAGG' BOY

I've watched my husbands style evolve over the past 20yrs and simply adore his well polished look.  However, when he showed me his recent purchase, I simply had to smile. 

There's still something to be said for men who are a little rough around the edges,

and the 'Bragg' BED-STU leather boots are just that.  Impecabbly crafted and organically tanned in Leon, Mexico; the 'Bragg' boot is not only comfortable, but affordable. 

Regular retail is $200.00, but they can be yours for $99.99 today. Available at your local WINNERS. www.winners.ca

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ANTIQUES AT THE ST. LAWRENCE

Please, please, please, drag yourself out of bed on a Sunday morning and check out the vintage finds at the St. Lawrence Market.  My girl who runs the store on the southwest corner, is passionate about finding good homes for her amazing finds.  I live in my vintage raybans and this red chain strap, quilted leather purse!

I know she has a couple of raybans stowed away in the back for $75 each. Get em' before they disappear.

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DON'T HATE ME CUZ I'M BEAUTIFUL

Every now and again Forever 21 hits the nail on the head, and you find something that is not only cute and cheap, but well constructed. Totally comparable to the Alice and Olivia bubble dress (pictured below for $396usd), this little satin and tulle number ($27.80cad) spoke to me! When I answered,  it lovingly replied back- "Maybe 20 yrs ago honey".  So this is for my young dolls who are going to be up til breakfast time.

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T's for TWO

Ladies, you could either scream 'Cougar' with the Juicy Couture T-shirt on the left (88$) or you could rock the Urban Outfitters sweet little "rabbit" T on the right ($17.99) I'll let you make the call.

Fellas, you could either let world know you can't dance by wearing the t-shirt on the left or you could rock the Urban Outfitters T on the right (9.99) under a jacket, and privately salute the "King".

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'CHIC' IS THE ROOT WORD OF 'CHICKEN'

Style is all encompassing, and that's why I'm sharing my recipe for a simply delicious Friday night meal to prepare for the people you love. 

Here's what you'll need

J.P. CHENET CABERNET SYRAH a lovely red wine that goes with anything for only $9.95 at your local L.C.B.O.

1 Whole Free Range Chicken
Your choice of herbs (rosemary, terragon, thyme)
Montreal Chicken Spice from Clubhouse
1 Red Potato
1 Yam

1 Medium Onion

2-3 Carrots

2-3 Garlic Cloves

2 Tbsp Olive Oil

A Pinch of Sea salt

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. 

Cut 1 yam into 6 pcs. Cut 1 red potato into 4 pcs. Cut one med onion into 4 pcs. Cut carrots into 3.  Peel 3 whole cloves of garlic.  Put all of them into the roasting pan and toss with 1 Tbsp olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Arrange leaving room for the Chicken in the middle, and put aside.

Pat dry the chicken with a paper towel.  Rub skin with olive oil and 'Clubhouse Montreal Chicken Spice'.   In the cavity of the chicken: add any fresh herbs (rosemary, basil, parsley)Tie legs with twine (cooking rope).  Cook at 450 degrees for 20 minutes, to sear the skin, then lower the temp. to 350 degrees cook covered, 15 minutes for every pound.  Bon Appetit!

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COME HITHER CALVES

Curvy calves?  It's your time to shine!

Ankle booties will take you from work to the lounge to the boudoir in an instant. 

 Consider the Aldo "Seace" bootie ($150) for your next sexcellent purchase.  Your significant other will thank you...again and again and again. 

Not that I wouldn't do ANYTHING to own the infamous red-bottomed Louboutins (a trillion$), but

 EVEN I HAVE MY LIMITS.

http://www.aldoshoes.com/ 

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