Rainy Day Casual

 

 

 

(Photos by Maria)

Outfit Details: Tunic + Envelope Clutch + Necklace (H&M), Leggings (TNA Aritzia), Loafers (Forever 21), Bracelets (Butterfly Beads), Ring (Minling Pan Studio)

As much as I love dresses and heels, I can't say no to a gorgeous pair of loafers. If I really want to wear a certain pair of shoes, I plan my entire outfit around it. The best part about these loafers is that they are water-proof!

Floral Gingham Pumps

 

 

 

 

(Photos by Maria)

Outfit Details: Pumps + Red Pants (Forever 21), Bag (Marc Jacobs), Sunglasses (Chanel - thrifted), Top (thrifted), Blazer (Dynamite) 

If you were to look in my wardrobe, you'd know I have an obsession with stripes. I have striped tops, skirts, pants, tights… even bags! I have yet to find the perfect pair of striped pumps, but that day will soon come I'm sure.

I've been seeing a lot of print mixing happening lately, especially with stripes and floral print. Some people are really good at putting the two together and while I really love the look, I'm not an expert at it yet. Instead I took a more simple route by pairing a black and white striped top with floral gingham pumps. Baby steps, right?  The pop of red in my pants really completes the outfit.

This is easily one of my favourite looks. Don't be surprised if you see me wearing these pumps often, I'm in love with them!

Hot Pink Tights

 

 (Photos by Maria)

Outfit Details: Dress (H&M), Tights + Ring + Pearl Necklace + Earrings (Forever 21), Gold Necklace (Foxy Originals), Bracelet Set (Butterfly Beads), Suede Pumps (BOC Shoes), Clutch (gift)

It's no secret that I love colour, in fact when most people see me the first thing they comment on is how colourful my outfit is. While I love to embrace it I'm still pretty wary about trying trends like neon tights and pants. Every colour or shade isn't made to suit all skin-tones, so it's natural for one to be scared to implement it into their wardrobe.

Regardless, I decided to make the purchase of hot pink tights and paired them with black and bright jewels as an accent.

What do you think about neon tights and how would you pair them? I'd love to know!

It's Electric

 

(Photos by Maria)

Outfit Details: Dress (c/o Zamrie), Booties (Aldo), Necklace + Bracelets (Butterfly Beads), Earrings (Forever 21), Clutch (gift)

It's hard for me to find a dress that fits well right up to my knees. I have long legs, so most dresses usually end at my thighs or if they are long, they make me look odd-shaped and short.

Zamrie kindly sent me this dress a few weeks ago and when I first saw it, to be honest I was a bit scared about the length. However I loved the electric print so much that I had to give it a shot and it worked so well paired with these Aldo booties.

In the warmer months I can even imagine it looking great without tights and a pair of nude pumps - in fact, it would make you look taller and more slim!

The amazing thing about the print of this dress is that designer Ashley Zygmunt took a photo of the crowd at a Dierks Bentley concert and turned it into a seasonless, Opry print. Now that's creativity. ;)

Red and Pink Colour blocking

(Photos by Maria) 

Outfit Details: Skirt + Belt (H&M), Top (Zara), Necklace (Forever 21), Bracelet (Kate Spade), Bangle Set (Butterfly Beads), Crossbody Bag (gift)

Lately I've been getting messages from friends and readers telling me that they're afraid of colour and asking me how to effectively mix two shades together. I think I might make a guide and share it here in a few weeks, but the key is accessories. In this outfit I'm wearing a bold red-orange skirt with a soft pink top, but adding the navy blue and gold belt seals the look.

I stuck with gold accessories with hints of black and white.

What do you think of this outfit? If you'd like me to do a step-by-step guide on colourblocking, let me know in the comments or tweet me!

Blazer and Jeans

 

 

(Photos by Maria) 

Outfit Details: Blazer + Jeans (MANGO), Top (c/o Killigrew Fashion), Belt + Bag + Accessories (H&M), Boots (random boutique), Ring (Minling Pan Studio)

It's been a while since I wore a blazer and remembered I had this really amazing one from when I used to work at MANGO (Yorkdale location, which is sadly closed now). Whenever I wear traditional suiting attire, I always like to mix it up with a lot of colour and accessories. I'm lucky that I don't have to come into work dressed formally every day, it means that I can never get tired of the classic blazer look.

Feeling the Winter Blues

I know there is still snow on the ground (and small/large blizzards happening every week), and while it has been a great winter this year for outdoor activities, I'm just about ready to say goodbye to my bulky TNA coat, mitts and boots.

Lately I've been feeling the winter blues; there is nothing worse than getting dressed for a night out on the town and being surprised with 20 centimetres of snow. It really hit me yesterday and I knew I had to make a change... starting with my wardrobe. This week I will be getting rid of all the fall/winter shades in my closet and brightening it up with colour. Lots and lots of it.

Okay, enough with the moping... back to the style part of this post.

Considering how busy my daily schedule is with work, events and of course, making time for family and friends, I usually plan my outfits for the blog ahead of time and get them photographed (thanks Maria!) so they're ready for the month. A lot of times I don't even get a chance to publish some outfits for various reasons. Today I'm sharing two looks that I put together (and definitely wore) this season.

Chambray Shirt with a Pleated Skirt

 

(Photos by Maria) 

Outfit Details: Shirt (Blooming Clothing), Skirt (MOON Apparel), Belt (H&M), Booties (Aldo), Earrings + Necklace + Clutch (thrifted), Pearl Bracelet Set (Joe Fresh)

Royal Blue Blazer

 

(Photos by Maria) 

Outfit Details: Blazer + Top (Forever 21), Jeans (MANGO), Necklace + Earrings (Butterfly Beads), Boots (Vianni Collection), Clutch (gift)

Can't wait to bring some Spring into this blog next week!

HUG Cookies & Champagne Party

 

(Photo by James)

Outfit Details: Collared Shirt + Floral Tights + Ring (Forever 21), Shorts (H&M), Bracelet Set (Butterfly Beads), Handbag (Kate Spade), Boots (Steve Madden)

Last night I went to the annual Cookies & Champagne Party hosted by The Hip and Urban Girl's Guide at Steam Whistle Brewing. If you've never been or even heard of such a thing, it's a big gathering that happens in Toronto, where guests are asked to bring 3 dozen homemade cookies and then participate in a cookie exchange while hanging out with a fantastic crowd and enjoying a drink or two. You also have the option to not get involved with the cookie exchange and simply buy the networking ticket.

There were some really great vendors on-site and perfectly themed for Valentine's Day including LUX-Spa offering manicures throughout the evening, Inspire Cosmetics, Arbonne, Samantha Stylish, Laborde Designs, Stella & Dot, Le Dolci, Pita Break, Summer Fresh and more.

This was the first year that the HUG ladies opened up the event to guys as well. I was impressed to see 10 per cent of the crowd were men. ;) Hopefully there will be many more next year.

 

 

James went to the HUG Cookies & Champagne Party with me and had a fantastic time. Maybe I should drag him to more events with me, hehe.

It was good to see + catch up with Raymi again! Yep, we were stuffing our bags with cookies.

There were sooo many choices. I was amazed at some people's creativity.

 

Saw some beautiful pieces at the Laborde Designs booth, and had a nice time chatting with Margarita who was representing the brand.

Always great seeing Canadian/local brands being represented at events! Samantha Stylish (left) is a writer and photographer, and on the right we have Manda, who is the head designer for Manda Designs.

I will be uploading the rest of the photos from HUG Cookies & Champagne Party along with recipes of the cookies James and I made on PB&J Mag in the next few days. Look out for it!

Be My Valentine: The Heart Stopper

Thanks for checking out the final look in my #BeMyValentine mini-series. I had a lot of fun collaborating with local boutiques and designers to bring you outfit ideas for Valentine's Day.

If you're in for a surprise Valentine date, I suggest going for The Heart Stopper. No matter where you're going, you will look glamorous and not feel out of place (unless it's paintballing, in that case, I'm sorry).

This stunning skirt is by Sarah Donofrio Designs. It can be worn with or without a belt, but I thought it added more of a girly touch. I absolutely love how simple it is, but completely makes the outfit because of the pop of pink on black.

Sarah Donofrio Designs can be found at Fitzroy Boutique. If you saw my outfit for Be My Valentine: Out On The Town and were impressed, you must check out this boutique in a lovely nook inside BYOB Cocktail Emporium. They carry amazing brands.

Necklace and earrings are from MoonRox Jewellery. Looking for a unique and jaw-dropping statement necklace? MoonRox is your spot. I was so happy with this look because of how good the necklace looked with everything else.

The ring is from 3Shahs, another local jewelry and accessories line, but it's known internationally and by celebrities too. Founder and designer Shah Emily Noaman thinks very creatively about each piece she makes, and also specializes in custom orders for people who are particular about what they want. You can't see the detailing of the ring in these photos, but it actually has many pearls glued together with a dainty flower as the main piece. Check out some of their "cocktail bling" here!

Photography: Emanuel Pires, PiresPhotography.ca

Makeup and Hair: Kristen Foote

   

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I'd love your feedback on this mini-series (should I do more or never again? hehe) so please comment below, tweet or e-mail me.

Be My Valentine: Demure Date

This is the third look in #BeMyValentine mini-series, where I have collaborated with local talent (designers and boutiques) to help you find the perfect outfit for Valentine's Day!

de·mure

1. (of a women or her behaviour) Reserved, modest, and shy.
2. (of clothing) lending such an appearance.

When going to an art gallery, showing, play or exhibit, I think of dressing up in more reserved, yet stylish and timeless attire. This outfit is ideal if you're going on a Demure Date.

My favourite part about this look is obviously the skirt by Studio Fresh. Designer Connie Meyer makes innovative pieces that are trendsetters on their own! Made for all sizes, this wraparound skirt relies on Velcro with no additional buttons for closure. I love the asymmetrical look and the fact that there is a conveniently large pocket in the front! Hello, women need pockets too. ;)

The comfortable black top is made by Nude Clothes, a clothing line designed by Rita Di Cesare, that focuses on chic office wear. This top can be worn two different ways: you can either wear the basic side (like the one photographed; ideal if you'll be wearing it with a statement necklace) OR you can choose the other side with a draped neckline.

Necklace and earrings are by Elemental Jewellery Design, owned and designed by Kelly Kan (I actually met her a week ago at the Fresh Collective + Dainty Girl Fashion & Beauty Night, she is LOVELY). All of her pieces are stunning and I love how she plays with colour. Kelly and I have something in common: we both have a thing for pearls. ;)

Studio Fresh, Nude Clothes and Elemental Jewellery Design can all be found at Fresh Collective. I recently found out about this boutique that carries unique clothing, jewelry and shoes all from local designers and I'm a little more than obsessed. It doesn't help that they have three locations, all easy to get to. Since I practically work, live, eat and breathe on Queen Street West, that's the one I go to the most.

My ring is from Butterfly Beads, one of my favourite spots to pick out jewelry and accessories. They always carry the latest and trendiest pieces. I'm also looking into creating some of my own jewelry from scratch and their wide selection of {everything} is astonishing.

Photography: Emanuel Pires, PiresPhotography.ca

Makeup and Hair: Kristen Foote

  

Come back tomorrow because the last outfit will be revealed!

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I'd love your feedback on this mini-series (should I do more or never again? hehe) so please comment below, tweet or e-mail me.

Be My Valentine: Out On The Town

Welcome back to the second day of #BeMyValentine week-long series! I have collaborated with designers and local boutiques to help you find the perfect outfit for Valentine's Day.

Many people still believe Valentine's Day is only to be celebrated between couples or if you have a date, but let me tell you, that is a myth. You may avoid treating yourself to dinner at a restaurant, but why not gather a group of girlfriends and go Out On The Town? Begin your evening with a fancy meal and extend the night by going bar-hopping or to a nice lounge and dance to your favourite music.

I often stress about what to wear when I'm going out, but a good reminder is the age-old saying: It's better to be overdressed, than under-dressed. If you are ever unsure, choose your favourite pair of heels and work your way up - similar to this look.

Leather shorts and skirts are really in, but they can be tricky; depending on how you style them, they can either make the outfit or throw it off completely (in other words, sexy/classy vs. trashy/skanky). I decided to go with the sexy/classy route and paired these amazing BB Dakota leather shorts with leggings. If you've never heard of BB Dakota, I highly suggest you check out the website. Designed by mother-daughter team, Gloria and Katharine Brandes, this line focuses on quality fabrics and construction while offering trend-driven apparel (picture Forever 21 but with excellent quality).

To play more on the Valentine's Day theme, I picked a red sweater by Wish, another clothing line that primarily focuses on e-commerce and can be found in some boutiques. Designer Annette Cannock's passion for fashion started at a very young age, since her mother also owned a boutique. She has worked in the fashion industry for many years and finds inspiration everywhere. She loves colour and incorporates it as much as she can in her stylish and wearable collections.

Don't feel like shopping online? Fitzroy Boutique in Toronto carries pieces from BB Dakota and Wish. Owned by Angela and Julie, this lovely shop is located inside of BYOB Cocktail Emporium, where both ladies carefully pick all of the items they think are trendy and will do well in the city. They also have an online store.

For jewelry, I chose gold pieces with hints of black and white. The necklace and earrings are by MoonRox Jewellery, a Toronto-based jewelry and accessories shop. Monique Chan, owner and designer, handcrafts and sells unique pieces ranging from simple to delicate to bold and dazzling.

The bracelets and ring are from Butterfly Beads, a jewelry outlet with the hottest pieces at extremely affordable prices. They sell ready-made jewelry and accessories, as well as supplies for you to create your own (including authentic Swarovski crystals, real pearls, sterling silver chains and more).

Photography: Emanuel Pires, PiresPhotography.ca

Makeup and Hair: Kristen Foote

  

Look out for Be My Valentine Outfit #3 tomorrow!

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I'd love your feedback on this mini-series (should I do more or never again? hehe) so please comment below, tweet or e-mail me.

Cardigan and Skirt Combo

 

(Photos by Maria)  

Outfit Details: Green Cardigan + Crossbody  + Earrings (Forever 21), Bodycon Skirt (Whitney Eve), Bracelet (gift), Booties (Aldo),  Necklace (Dynamite)

It's safe to say I'm more than obsessed with this skirt (also worn here). I've been pairing it with all kinds of tops and fall in love with each outfit more than the last. Everyone talks about how Whitney Eve's pieces are so versatile and I'm finally experiencing this firsthand.

I'm off to a meeting now but come back later this week because I've got some exciting news (+ giveaway) to share with you! Be sure to subscribe via e-mail (on the sidebar) or become a fan of SUMMERXSKIN on Facebook to get notified when there is a new post!

Happy Wednesday!

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An Evening at Minling Pan Studio

(Photo by Ria) 

Outfit Details: Pink Sequin Blazer (H&M), Boots (Vianni Collection), Crossbody Bag (Etienne Aigner), Black Top + Bodycon Skirt (Forever 21), Earrings (Butterfly Beads), Bracelet + Necklace (gift)

If you haven't been to Minling Pan Studio (also known as Shining Image) in Toronto yet, I highly recommend checking it out. Founded by Minling Pan, this boutique has everything you could ever want or need including clothes, jewelry, evening clutches, everyday handbags, as well as a unique selection of nail polishes!

I had the opportunity to visit the store last week when Valerie Stachurski of Charming Media invited me to an exclusive shopping party, where I tried really hard not to indulge in everything! I had to keep reminding myself that I'm still on a spending budget, but I will definitely be going back for items to add to my Spring wardrobe. (Who wants to go with meee?)


Minling is a professional colour, style and wardrobe consultant. While we were exploring the studio and shopping, she did personal one-on-one consultations with attendees and helped identify what sort of items and colours look good on them. Apparently I'm doing something right, because she said my pink blazer-cardi complemented my skin-tone perfectly. I was flattered!


Most of my evening was spent chit-chatting with other girls, munching on delicious fruits and veggies (with chocolate… YUM), and looking at beautiful statement necklaces and unique dresses.

Here are some photos from the evening:

 

Some of the items in the store to give you an idea of what Minling's style is like; those statement necklaces are to-die-for.

 

Here I am with Minling! She is adorable.

 

Hanging out with Valerie - thanks for organizing a lovely shopping event!

 

It's always great catching up with Nicole and Bianca.

 

 Beauty bloggers Elaine and Stephanie were also present. (Love this photo!)

 

After non-stop tweeting with JJ Cowen for weeks, we finally got to meet.

 

Obligatory photo with Grace (so adorable) and my lovely date from the evening, Ria!

 

Again, I was really happy to see fruits and vegetables among other appetizers like macarons, wine and sparkling water.

By the way, did I mention there was a Photo Booth on-sight, handmade by Minling?!

 

So, this had to happen! Love.

For more photos, check out the full album here. If you don't live in or around Toronto, you can still browse Minling Pan Studio's online shop!