#puppylove

My last post was MID-JUNE?!  But so much has happened since then!

Toronto had yet another earthquake (WTH!?), Jack Layton lost his battle with cancer (RIP), and I got a puppy from the Kawartha Lakes Humane Society (www.hskl.com).  One of these things is not like the other....

But I have to tell you...even the earthquake, our second in as many years, didn't shake up my world as much as this charming canine.  And as my dear friend Sheila said, she certainly knows her angles.

My time is at a premium, and essentially my only online time is during business hours [hi boss!]...so I will likely continue to be scarce.  That said, I HAD to come back and show you my gorgeous new sidekick!

Internets, meet Eason (after stunningly beautiful fitness model, Jamie Eason!)

 Oh, those baby blues still get me every time!

 ...Work it!

 Proud new Mama, with my baby outside of the shelter.

HUGE shoutout to Janis of www.kaleidoscopephotography.com who's "What a Dog Contest" produced these "aww"-worthy shots...

 ...I want about 100000000 more!  Pictures.  OK, and puppies.

Could she be any more gorgeous? (And could I possibly post any more pictures? ...I think so!)

Lashing Out

This post is LONG overdue!  Not only have I not been posting regularly to the blog, but I have been meaning to open your eyes to the world of lash extensions for AGES.

It all started with a Groupon.  That's right.  I was a faithful mascara-wearer until I opened my e-mail that one fateful day, and discovered a coupon for lash extensions for something crazy like $35.

I went, got them done, and was IN LOVE.  Honestly, as a ginger-blonde, I'm lucky if it looks like I have lashes when I have mascara on, let alone without.  So these were a GODSEND.  I WISH I'd known enough to take 'before' pictures!  Suddenly, I was waking up with gorgeous, movie star lashes.  I don't think I wore ANY makeup for the first month.  A little moisturizer with SPF 30 and I was good to go!

I've done everything from the more natural look, to the "um-did-you-see-Mandy-she-has-tranny-lashes" look, and love them all.  Lots of options depending on what you want to achieve and what your budget is!

So in an attempt to make all of your beautiful lives that much more beautiful, I must SHAMELESSLY plug CHICLASH ( www.chiclash.com ), and it's lovely owner, Susan!  Susan is extremely talented, a total chatterbox, super stylish - AND she sincerely cares about the quality of the products that she uses.  We talked quite at length about the adhesive that she researched extensively before opening her salon, so that she could ensure that her clients were receiving a long-lasting, and much safer, gentler solution.  A little pricey? Certainly.  But they last a LONG time (4-6 weeks, mine have lasted even longer after past applications), and they're beautiful.

You can check out the BRAND-SPANKIN'-NEW salon at the website above, and see my 'after' pictures below - but you really need to go, get a set, and let her work speak for itself.  Like, REALLY REALLY. 

If you need me, I'll be shopping for some under-eye wrinkle cream!!!

Mandy
xo

What's in YOUR closet?

On my drive to work this morning, I heard an interview with a woman scorn'd...her boyfriend cheated on her, so she broke up with him, changed the locks, and offered that a friend could come and get his stuff for him.  When he told her that he didn't want the stuff she'd bought him, she took to the internets!

Making lemonade out of lemons (and from the sounds of it, adding a little wine for good measure), she and a girlfriend snapped some pictures of her wearing some of his clothes, and not a whole lot else - then posted them on eBay to auction off the dastardly dude's duds.  She's got her own site, and is still posting pics and auctioning off his stuff piece by piece.  I. LOVE.

Frankly, I think the girl is onto something.  I've sent her a message, because I've got some serious ideas of my own, and I think it could be HUGE.

Check it out (SOOOO NSFW!) @ www.myexboyfriendscloset.com


Hell hath no fury...........


xo
Mandy

Exam Inspiration

Hi! I'm in the middle of exams, and editorials like this are getting me through. I know, weird. Non, my degree is nothing fashion related, nor creative in any way. Maybe that's why I yearn for stunning phots while I'm waxing poetic about the political situation of the international community...

These photos are from VogueJapan, formerly VogueNippon, edited by Anna Della Russo. Who... if youre unfamiliar with her vibe, you really must spend five minutes on google. Shes going to be in Toronto soon with Tommy Ton from JacknJill, and I will give up my first born to be there. Too much?

xox

S

images fashiongonerogue

Black and Navy Conundrum

Hi!

Pretty much my attitude towards general questions is that anything can be done. The subcategory of that 'anything' is that it has to be done well to fit your various categories, like figure, personal style, occasion appropriateness, etc.

So Amanda's quandary of black and navy, can it be done? OF COURSE! Anything is possible in the world of fashion. It just takes some maneuvering to ensure that it's done well. I don't favour a matchy matchy look, and tend not to approve of 'faux pas' rules like matching your belt, purse and shoes to ensure you look good. Please don't do this.

Here we have Mr Pitt and Angie-Jo sporting a couples answer to black and navy. As you can see their use of greys and browns pairs them up quite nicely.

Mixing black and navy together has been relevant for a few years now. If you're going to work it, now's your time! I would suggest a pop of a vibrant colour to distract and add to your look. Some sharp red, or cobalt blue (which it seems Amanda has done) or even canary yellow would zing things together fabulously and would distract from an ever apparent blend of black and navy, while adding in a personal touch.

Good luck with your ensemble, Amanda!

xox
S

images fabsugar, thefashionpolice

Matchy-Matchy

It is time, once again my dear friends, that I call on you for your advice.

Much like when buying a new suite of living room furniture, I continuously struggle with the concept of the "matchy-matchy" when I am tapped to attend an event in tandem with my oh-so-handsome (and oh-so-hard-to-fit-in-a-suit) boyfriend.

My friend Marissa and Shawn are finally tying the knot.  It seems that the exciting event has crept up on me far too quickly, and I'm struggling to find the perfect outfit.  As the day-of acting wedding planner/coordinator, I feel most comfortable wearing pants, for those occasions where I need to get down on my knees to fluff a dress or climb a ladder to fix a faulty chandelier.  BUT this is the first wedding that I've been responsible for where I'm actually an invited guest as well!

After two days of laboriously searching, we managed to find a gorgeous suit for my man: a dark navy Calvin Klein Slim-Fit suit.  Thank the fashion gods!  Being the colour-freak that he is, my boyfriend has elected to wear a COBALT blue button down, and a GOLD tie.  I love that boy.

I managed to find a super sexy pair of cobalt blue sky-high heels to wear as a nod to his ensemble...

 

HELLO.

But now my issue is this:  I was planning to wear the black jumpsuit that I ordered from www.asos.com late last week (that I didn't tell Sheila about!)- assuming it arrives in time.

But it's BLACK.  And his suit is NAVY.  Dark enough navy that I had originally thought it black.  Am I wrong to think that we need to MATCH vs. Coordinate?  Can I rock the black and cobalt, while he does Navy and Cobalt?

Such a dilemma....

xo

Mandy

Hello!

Just wanted to pass along a photo from a shoot I did about a month ago.

I posted a few more on my personal blog. I dont want to take over Amandas space with my own stuff!

xox
S

http://www.sheilamcelreastylist.blospot.com/

Ignoring the snow...

It's spring, dammit!  So I'm going to ignore the snow outside my window, and think about nice, warm weather.

DVF has decided to make me cry myself to sleep at night, by designing the most beautiful SS and resort lines ever.  I know she didn't do it to be mean, but really?  Diane?  Why do you have to do this to me?

At the top of my list:  The Egg Bert Shorts, and Boye Deux top.  GORGEOUS.

Diane, if you're out there....I need these in my life.  ASAP.

Mandy
xo

Trembling

I think the whole world has both physically and emotionally been shaken over this past week with the disastrous events is Asia.

Rather than complimenting anyone, putting style ideas/questions out there, or rambling about the latest events in my life, I'm posting a link.  If you are thinking of stepping out to get some $7 designer coffee today, how about you hit Tim Horton's instead for about $2, and send the other $5 to help those who are dealing with the unimaginable...

http://www.rogers.com/web/content/Japan

One text, $5, and just a moment to think of those in need.  It's a shame that it often takes something so terrible to make us reach into our pockets.

Think about it.

Planification

With the recent addition of a second wardrobe (my boyfriend moved in with me!), I find myself once again feeling the crunch to ATTEMPT to edit my wardrobe and make some room.  For his stuff.  And maybe some new stuff for SS11!?  Sheila and I are going to get together so that she can keep me going in the right direction.  She's like my fashion fairy godmother.  Even though she's almost a whole year younger than me.

So I'm thinking about what my closet really needs... thought this would be a good forum to think out loud (or in writing) and maybe get some feedback.

• black dresspants - a necessary evil, and mine need to be replaced
• black blazer - I've got a few cute ones
• tan/camel colored chinos - these have been on my shopping list for a while
• the perfect LBD - I still haven't managed to find one that I can wear to the office AND/or to a wedding AND/or out on weekend with a cute jean jacket
• speaking of which, a cute jean jacket - Have one from the GAP from 6 or so years ago, but it needs some tailoring to really look great on me
• jeans - a given, but I've got LOTS
• white linen pants - I've got a cropped pair...think that's good for the summer
• skirt - I picture tulip skirts (I have a dress that I've never worn that could be modified), but I've got a couple that might work
• dress shirts - I've got a few, could always use more since I'm in an office 5 days a week
• graphic t's/tanks - might be nice to add a couple just to keep it fresh
• PRINTS!  COLOURS!  - I want so desperately to embrace the neons and brights of the season

That's basically my list right now.  I have some great shorts, simple cotton dresses and standard summer wardrobe fare.  Just want a few things to punch it up a little, and maybe up the quality as well.


Then there's the whole issue of upgrading my boyfriend's wardrobe.  I used to think it was so EASY for men to dress themselves...but when Jeans and a T-shirt don't cut it (or your boyfriend loves colours, patterns, prints etc), it makes things a little more difficult!

What are your - or your man's - SS11 must haves?

xo
Mandy

Workin' On Our Fitness

Hello!

How many of you are gym lovers? I, personally, love the gym and look forward to it. However, my style while busting it out leaves much to be desired. Sometimes I wear loose h&m tshirts that fall over a sports bra. Other times I'm running in a hoodie with a baseball hat. Let's get serious. Those of you who work out in makeup and fake nails and all that jazz, who has that kind of time!? And let's take amoment to consider your skin that's sweaty with layers of foundation and no chance to breathe. Makes me nervous thinking about it.

Vanessa Hudgens, our little Musical queen, is growing up. Her style (or stylist) has definitely upgraded her look lately in editorials and red carpets. Her everyday look is pretty chill, lots of moccassins, tassles, and looseness going on. A scarf for pre and post gym is a great idea to bring it together.


Nothing new here with Sophia Bush. Just wanted to point out the lack of lululemon gear and her cute bag and colour combo.

Ballerina wear is so very 'now'. Thanks Darren Aronofsky!

I've no intention of knowing anything about her, or her life, or her reality-based show...but her workout look is definitely unique.


Let us never forget about Gwynnie. This by far is my favourite. Everything about it is the best, from the leather to the baggy mans jogging pant.

xoxo
S

images people.com

Really into looking hot. Always at the body shop, working on that beautiful figure...

"Body Bounce" by Kardinal Offishal.  Love that song.  Always gets me pumped up at the gym.

I spend a LOT of my free time at the gym.  It has actually become the quality time that my boyfriend and I spend together most days!  I'm finding that I'm getting bored with my workout clothes though.  I mean, sure, some of them are pretty cute.  But EVERY SINGLE WOMAN in the gym is wearing black pants, usually from lululemon.  And I'm bored with tank tops.  Seriously.  I'm not to the point that I can comfortably workout in a sports bra yet, and not sure that I would do it even if I were.


So what's the rule on gym wear?  I know some people would say it doesn't matter.  It matters to me!  I'm there to make myself look better....why shouldn't I look nice in the process?

Anybody got any NEW ideas for workout wear??

Spring Shivers

Am I the only person sitting in their office, freezing their patootie off right now?  Did Mother Nature miss the memo that all of those darned rodents saw their shadows and predicted early Spring?!  What gives?

I stared blankly into my closet this morning, as my boyfriend announced that it would feel like -24 degrees with the windchill today.  YUCK!  Dresspants are NOT cold weather friendly, and I'll admit it - I despise wearing pantyhose!

So I went to my default - my Lululemon Wunder Unders (www.lululemon.com)!  I could not possibly love these pants any more than i already do.  I need 103847623489239 pairs.  Seriously.  Send your donations to the address below...

I paired my miracle leggings with a plain black tulip style dress with pockets and 3/4 length sleeves from Joe Fresh, and my go-to black boots (that need desperately to be replaced.  Sidewalk salt, while necessary, is EVIL!).  I would typically go with a big chunky necklace, but instead opted for my black scarf, knowing full well that my office would be an ice box.

Other than layers upon layers, do you have a go-to piece to save you from the (long over-stayed it's welcome) winter chills?

xo
Mandy 

Self Promotion

Good Morning!

You're the first people I've told... I've JUST created a blog for myself. It will hold different content than I post here with Amanda; here I will continue with the loose form of question and answer posting that Amanda and I have kind of gravitated towards. This new blog will be my own forum for posting fashion-related images and information that inspires me, or interests me.

Hopefully you enjoy both contributions.

xo

S

http://www.sheilamcelreastylist.blogspot.com/

image: glamourai

Hola! Bienvenido a la real world!

Didja miss me?  I missed you!  I even took a few pictures (rather, made my boyfriend take pictures) specifically for ilysto!  I wanted to post while I was away, but frankly, $15 for 15 minutes of internet time just wasn't justifiable in my opinion...  So I promised myself I'd post today.

All my bags were packed.... yes, but one humble suitcase for 8 days in Mexico!  Aren't you proud?

And after just a quick flight (departing at 6:00am!) we were at the resort in time for lunch - with a view!

...Did I mention the view?

.......mmmmm boyfriend!

I finally worked up the nerve to do my take on Karla's (www.karlascloset.com) harem pants vacation look:

...but I very quickly discovered that cute as it may be, the AA "Le sash" is NOT very functional as a top for a girl with any kind of chest!!!  It was quickly replaced by a white men's undershirt (tank top).  There is no photographic evidence, due to an excessive intake of salt and carbs that day...


My white blazer and navy blue high-waisted shorts made an appearance one night for the a la carte.

It always seems that you take fewer pictures than you thought, doesn't it?  There were a few other outfits that I thought I rocked pretty well, but let's face it, I spent most of my time in my bathing suits!!!

Lookout, Victora's Secret...

We also watched the Oscars...can't believe that Sheila didn't mention Jennifer Hudson....LOOOVE (despite her SUPER awkwardness)

Back to some normal posts soon!

xo
Mandy

I like your style, Oscar.

Happy Monday!

The Oscars!! How fun were they?! And how horrible!? I'm sure I'm not alone in saying the hosting wasn't the greatest? However, I'm no expert on Oscar hosting, so we'll delve into the steeze that was brought out for us all judge.

I'm not huge into ball gowns and crazy elaborate dresses with organza and tulle and all that nonsense. I feel like most gowns are so similar year after year. I want to be shocked into love with a dress. It's the ACADEMY AWARDS! You have every designer begging to dress you, and if you don't, maybe you need a new PR team. This is your chance to shine and there are no excuses. Lack of fit bugs me here, beause c'mon. I don't know the politics of it all, or how it's organized, but I would think there should be appropriate people around you to tell you, yes that dress fits, or no that dress is hideous. or no you can't wear that because it's almost a replica of what Julia Roberts wore when she won...Reese Witherspoon. c'mon.

Love Emma Stone's dress here at the Vanity Fair afterparty. The shoes, not loving them but I like the dress so much I don't care about the shoes. They're just a little too bridesmaidy or something. Her Calvin Klein at the Globes was stunning too.

Juliette Lewis. I loooove this dress so much. The belt, the fit, the colour, everything.

Here's my thing with the Oscars. You're Natalie Portman. You're respected, admired, smart, and blah blah blah. Why wear something that's so...pretty. It's pretty but it's not like it hasn't been worn before, and won't be worn again. Maybe she just doesn't care about fashion. That's fair. We won't make her.

Loved this dress. For me her style has trumped Ms Portman's for each and every show.

Simple, elegant, so HER. Love it.

I'm all about appropriateness-es. Weather, age, occassion, etc. Dame Helen Mirren is so age appropriate she's something we can all strive for. Perfect fit, perfect for her age and style. She's wonderful and so regal!

Think this is Calvin Klein. Love it. It's different, unique, and looks great on her. I won't even go into her singing.

We can always count on Cate Blanchett for unique and original. Love it.

I've not idea how this vintage (Charles James I think?) went over with everyone, but I loved it.

Hope you have a great week!

S

xxoxo

Photos: msn, vanityfair, justjared