Sea Shells by the Seashore

Having just returned from vacationing in beautiful Hawaii I was re-energized and inspired by the sun, sand and of course, surf.  There is something so very special about Hawaii that one can't really explain in words, it's more of a feeling.  It wasn't my first time visiting the islands and I sure hope that it won't be my last!  There is such a natural beauty to Oahu and the ever changing landscape is truly amazing, especially considering that the island is only 71 km long and 48 km wide - roughly more than double the size of Toronto.  It shouldn't go without saying that each of the Hawaiian islands lends their own individual beauty and inspiration with the rolling hills and lava fields of the Big Island (Hawaii); to the lush tropical forests of Kauai; there is truly something for everyone on the islands.

To help us get into that island state-of-mind I have selected tropical-themed articles for the home.  Items that can be easily introduced to help bring you closer to the sea because even if we can't go to Hawaii, we can certainly try to bring Hawaii to us!

 

As you can see there are various items that range from stately to whimsical, there are some that resemble sea glass and others that have a more nautical flair to them.  If you have a true love-affair with the sea/tropics I have also included wallpaper patterns to make a bold statement in your home - perhaps in a powder room or an office.  There are patterns for your bed, your walls and even your floors - with that octopus rug.  Some items are throw-backs to a former time with the beach-stripe baskets and others are truly modern - the sleek lamp with grasscloth shade.  No matter which way you choose to embrace island life in your home, make sure that it creates a sense of calm.

Happy Shopping!

Courtesy of:
Anthropologie
Crate and Barrel
West Elm
IKEA

High vs. Low - Dresses

Often I am asked where ladies can go to purchase lower priced items that resemble their designer counterparts.  I am thrilled to have this question asked because there are so many clothing shops that have items which mimic the runways, so you really don't have to go far and search high and low for these items.  In some cases, the "knock-offs" look almost identical, if not better than their haute couture cousins.  I'll be taking a look at the high's versus the low's in the world of fashion starting with dresses.  I've selected a few dresses in various categories to show you how easily you can achieve that high-fashion look for less. I've decided to opt for the mid-range versus low-range prices because not everyone has a caviar budget.  You will find in some cases the dresses are almost identical, others are a spin-off, some are fancy and others casual, but all-in-all the look you want to emulate can be achieved, even if you use a bit of your own imagination.  

Here are the high's and low's for dresses:

As you can see from the dress options above, some of the lower priced options look just as good (if not better) than their higher priced doubles.  Now I'm not saying that one should avoid shopping for high end merchandise, but if you can avoid it why not ;)

P.S. BCBG and Anthropologie are listed in US funds.

Happy Shopping!

Courtesy of:
Anthropologie
BCBG
Banana Republic
The Gap
Old Navy
Forever 21
H&M

Mint Julep

One colour that has made a triumphant comeback is Mint.  In my opinion, this colour is the quintessential spring/summer colour and can be paired with pretty much anything!  The refreshing light green looks equally fantastic with colours in the same hue (mainly pastels) such as yellow, blue, pink, purple, coral, white, and even other shades of green.  But if you want to play it safe, black will also work effectively.  If you're hesitant about wearing this colour in terms of clothing options, why not try it out in your accessories such as, earrings, a necklace, shoes, or even a bag.  If you're daring, go full on ice cream shop with mint, pink and yellow.  If you want a touch, try out a mint coloured pencil skirt and a white flowy top.  Here are some minty items that I selected for you:

How yummy are those!  Makes me want to run out and buy up everything in this colour.  You can see that there are loads of options, from casual with the runners, tees, and pullovers; to dressy with peplum skirts, blousy shirts and sexy dresses; and I even threw in a swimsuit option.  You can easily add a hit of mint or go all out, but whatever you decide to do, add this colour to your wardrobe and get minty fresh.

Happy Shopping!

Courtesy of:
Banana Republic
Old Navy
The Gap
Anthropologie
Express
Forever 21
J Crew
H&M
Le Chateau