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What They Wore: Holt Renfrew Knot on My Planet


Approximately 20,000 elephants are killed every year for their ivory. Scientists and conservationists warn that at this rate, both African and Asian elephants will be extinct in the wild within our lifetime, which is a horrifying thought. What makes this worse is that ivory trade is not banned in Canada! Since 2018, Holt Renfrew raised more than $250,000 in support of #knotonmyplanet to benefit the Elephant Crisis Fund, a joint initiative of Save the Elephants and the Wildlife Conservation Network with the goal of ending the ivory crisis and secure a future for elephants. Last night, supermodel and Global Ambassador of #knotonmyplanet Doutzen Kroes along with Alexandra Weston, Divisional Vice President, Brand and Creative Strategy, Holt Renfrew hosted a cocktail party to celebrate the national charity shopping weekend – Sep 7 and 8, with the aim of raising another $200,000 for the Elephant Crisis Fund.

“We hope, through our retail platform and as a leader in the industry, to use our voice to further amplify the incredibly important conversation around saving the elephants and wildlife conservation as a whole,” said Alexandra Weston. “This is an incredibly rewarding partnership that everyone can be a part of and is creating positive impact in the world.”

If you love elephants and want to do something about this crisis, there are a few things you can do to help. You can shop the adorable limited edition #knotonmyplanet collection, including Kotn tees, sweatshirts, socks, and more ($20-$125) at Holt Renfrew stores and online, with 100% of the profits going to the Elephant Crisis Fund. You can snap photos of the elephant-inspired artwork at the Bloor St store and spread awareness to your friends and family. And you can sign this #IvoryFreeCanada petition to stop the ivory trade in Canada, because killing majestic creatures for the sake of a silly trinket is both cruel and pointless.





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What I Wore: Photoshoot with Embryolisse


When it comes to beauty products that work, French pharmacies is where it’s at. I’ve discovered most of my current skincare faves browsing the aisles of Parisian drug stores, with Google Translate in hand. It takes a while for these products to arrive in Canada, but eventually some of them do, making it a lot easier to stock up without having to pay for a plane ticket. Embryolisse is one of those brands. A French pharmacy staple, Embryolisse was created by a dermatologist back in 1950, with its first product – Lait-Crème Concentré. Since then, the brand has become a cult-favourite. Lucky for us, Embryolisse is now available in Canada, with a range of skincare products well-suited to sensitive skin. Embryolisse formulas include ingredients of natural origin (shea butter, beeswax, aloe vera, soy) combined with cutting-edge dermatological active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and collagen to offer products that are effective but also suitable for even the most sensitive skin (hello, it me!). The company pays a lot of attention to ingredient dosages, ensuring that each product contains just enough of each active ingredient as to be effective, but not so much that your skin won’t be able to absorb it.

Last week, I attended a fun Embryolisse event, which introduced us to brand’s new arrivals, and treated all attendees to a mini photoshoot with pro photographer Vincent Lions. Makeup artist Angie di Battista prepped my skin with Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré before doing my makeup, and hairstylist Ian Russel added some waves to my hair before I was ready to step in front of the camera. There were lots of great outfit options on offer from Emma Boutique, but I opted to wear my own clothes – a Comme des Garcons Play shirt I was wearing that day, and a Saint Laurent polka dot dress. The photos turned out great, non?

But back to the latest and greatest from Embryolisse. I already use a couple of Embryolisse products from the Artist Secret series – like the Radiant Eyes stick (perfect for tired eyes) and Lashes & Brows Booster (gotta be more diligent about applying this daily but still love it), but this time I was introduced to the brand’s Anti-Aging skincare line. The thing about sensitive skin is that a lot of skincare products with anti-aging ingredients tend to be too harsh, causing breakouts and irritation. What’s different about Embryolisse Anti-Aging line is that it doesn’t promise immediate results, but a slow build to better, more youthful skin, with lower chance of causing an adverse reaction. I was especially intrigued by the Gentle Night Peeling cream with caviar lemon extract, which promotes gentle cell renewal every night. My sensitive skin can’t tolerate most chemical peels, so I am really excited to try this one…and a cherry on top – it’s really affordable!

If you’d like to try Embryolisse, you can find their products at Shoppers Drug Mart online and in stores.

What I Wore: 1 – Dress – Saint Laurent (Holt Renfrew), Boots – Dolce Vita (Shopbop); 2 – Shirt – Comme des Garcons, Cuff – Hermes, Earrings – H&M

Beauty: First Canadian CHANEL Beauty Boutique Opens in Toronto


Toronto just got a whole lot chicer with the arrival of the brand new CHANEL Beauty Boutique – the first standalone fragrance and beauty location in Canada! Located on the concourse level of 50 Bloor Street West, the stunning 1,280 square foot space features three makeup stations, a fragrance library, a specialty selection of eyewear, and a private treatment room inspired by the CHANEL au Ritz Spa in Paris!

The boutique will house current beauty and fragrance collections, as well as products that are unique to the Toronto location (intriguing, non?). The space will feature iPad applications where shoppers will be able to try on lipstick shades virtually, and to top it off, exclusive “Art of Wrapping” packaging will also be unveiled. I’ve been buried under a mountain of paperwork at work and haven’t had the chance to stop by the new boutique just yet, but I can’t wait to pay a visit this weekend. Who’s with me?

Operating and skincare treatment hours, and more photos after the jump!
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Shopping: Shopbop Spring 2019 Trends


It’s that time of the year – spring is in the air, birds are chirping, temperatures are climbing, and all I want to do is wear fewer layers. This spring, I am trying not to overspend, and instead invest in a few smart pieces that will complement my existing wardrobe options, while adding a little freshness to the clothes I’ve grown tired of. For months now, I’ve been slowly building my perfect spring Shopbop wishlist, and at a recent preview, I actually got to see a lot of these pieces IRL. If you’re trying to update your wardrobe this season, and are looking to try a few hot trends, below are my personal faves – from Animal Print (which is technically a classic, so you may already have a piece or two in your closet), to touches of Neon, to my weekend staple of Coveralls, you don’t have to embrace each and every trend, but you may just find a piece or two that you’ll love and wear all the time, which is my goal too.

And to sweeten the deal, you can save up to 25% off regular AND sale items until April 12th by using promo code EVENT19. This is Shopbop’s Event of the Season, so if you’ve been eyeing something, now is the time to take the plunge, especially if it’s already on sale…getting a discount on an already reduced item is such a good feeling.

Happy Shopping!

Animal Print

Neon

Overalls

Strappy Sandals

Tie Dye


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Shopping: H&M Conscious Exclusive Spring 2019 Collection


Over the years, I’ve bought several pieces from various H&M Conscious Exclusive collections, and I am happy to report that they are still well-loved and often-worn…in other words those pieces truly held up both in quality and style. This year’s H&M Conscious Exclusive collection is another treasure trove of airy dresses (both casual and special occasion), chic suiting, and cool accessories, all made from sustainably-sourced materials, such as organic silk and cotton, Tencel and recycled polyester.

“This Conscious Collection is a wonderful step towards meeting one of our main goals – to use only 100% recycled or other sustainably-sourced materials by 2030. Sustainability is one of our core values and while there is a lot of work going into this throughout the entire value chain, it’s always exciting to see the more consumer-facing campaigns really showcase our conscious way of thinking.” – Isak Roth, Global Sustainability Manager at H&M.

Personally, I think it’s great to see a fast fashion brand embracing sustainability. I truly hope that more brands join H&M’s commitment to use recycled materials, while creating better quality garments. Of course, the entire fast fashion business model seems to be counter-intuitive to this goal, but hopefully as consumers become more and more conscious of our spending choices, more brands will choose to improve on this as well. H&M Conscious Exclusive Spring 2019 Collection will be launching in select stores and online on April 11th, priced from $29.99 to $299.



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Shopping: Holt Renfrew Unveils New Beauty Hall


After months of renovations, Holt Renfrew has unveiled its gleaming new Beauty Hall on the concourse level of the Bloor Street flagship. The seemingly never-ending 12,000
square foot department was designed by Kramer Design Group with master architects, Gensler, and features 45 skincare, fragrance and colour brands, a dedicated clean beauty area, a master class event space, two Holt Renfrew skincare cabines, a fragrance library and lots more. Some of the brands available at the Holt Renfrew Beauty Hall include Aesop, La Prairie, Chantecaille, Sulwhasoo, Oribe, Susanne Kaufmann, Tata Harper, Byredo, and Jo Malone, among many others. A CHANEL Beauty Boutique will be opening within the Beauty Hall later this year as well.

Photos don’t do this space justice, you must see it for yourself. Whether you’re looking to refresh your skincare routine, learn about new beauty brands, or shopping for the perfect gift, the Holt Renfrew Beauty Hall has something for everyone, and it’s just the beginning for the 50 Bloor Street West store. By the end of the year, the main floor beauty and colour space renovation will also be completed, and by 2020, the remaining floors, including the new women’s leather goods and jewellery area, new vendor shops from Celine, Prada, Dior, Balenciaga and a gourmet dining experience in the new Colette Grand café will be updated and renovated. If the rest of the renovations are as impressive as the Beauty Hall, the flagship store is going to be a gem! Until then, make sure to stop by the new beauty space on the concourse level of the 50 Bloor Street West flagship store, and check out the awe-inspiring department for yourself.




Photo Credits: Holt Renfrew

Beauty: Murale Spring 2019 Preview


Now that it’s officially spring, it’s time for a beauty routine refresh. Cold temps, windy snowboarding trips, and a quick but sunburny trip to the Dominican Republic left my skin feeling just a little stressed out. Luckily, I had a few goodies from the Murale Spring 2019 preview to give me a hand with repairing the damage. If you’re in need of a few new goodies to bring your glow back this spring, check out some of my faves from Murale (and Shoppers Drug Mart) below.

ORGANIC PHARMACY Skin Brush, $23
Not only does dry brushing boosts circulation and lymphatic system, but it also helps with avoiding ingrown hairs post-waxing, and is great for gentle exfoliation. I’ve been using mine religiously after my sunburn and not only did it feel great, it helped me get rid of the dreaded peeling in no time.

Available now in-store and on shoppersdrugmart.ca/beauty

STRIVECTIN Blue Rescue™ Clay Renewal Mask $49
This multi-tasking clay mask uses nourishing oceanic extracts and balancing probiotics to reduce the look of fine lines, enlarged pores, rough texture and dullness in just ten minutes. The massage-activated formula goes from white to an ocean blue colour as it smooths, reduces redness and boosts radiance.

Available now in-store and on shoppersdrugmart.ca/beauty

FILORGA NCEF-NIGHT MASK $95
Night masks are my fave…the active ingredients work hard overnight to make your skin look more rested and more youthful when you wake up…what’s not to love?! And this one from Filorga is top-notch. Peptides boost hyaluronic acid and collagen to smooth wrinkles and plump the skin, silk tree extract stimulates melatonin, a natural sleep regulator, for a well-rested appearance, and red indigo extract fights the negative effects of daily stress for a more radiant complexion.

Available March 2019 in-store and on shoppersdrugmart.ca/beauty

PATCHOLOGY Resting Beach Face Soothing Sheet Mask + Lip Gel Kit, $20
This kit was a life-saver! I actually brought one soothing sheet mask with me on the plane, and it helped my dehydrated skin be less dehydrated. Soothe Sheet Mask: Created with the best ingredients from Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet, this masque is a five-minute remedy. Aloe Vera and Cotton Seed Extract are natural anti-inflammatories that help soothe and calm redness. Schisandra Berry de-stresses skin and improves moisture for a plump, youthful glow. Bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this blend of Rosemary, Sage, and Lavender helps repair irritated skin. Hydrating Lip Gel: Instantly moisturizes dry lips. Each five-minute biodegradable lip mask combines ingredients like Peptides to improve elasticity, Green Tea to soothe, and Niacinamide to prevent water loss.

Available April 2019 in-store and on shoppersdrugmart.ca/beauty

TEAOLOGY White Tea Miracle Drops $49
If you already use a serum and a good moisturizer, but still suffer from dry skin, this product may just be the answer. It really does leave the skin feeling softer and more moisturized. The formula is an effective anti-aging concentrate, containing a precious White Tea infusion, full of powerful antioxidant polyphenols (Epigallocatechin EGCG), combined with a peptide complex that helps re-densify skin tissue. Stabilized Vitamin C enhances the complexion’s brightness and stimulates collagen production. When used every day, skin appears fresher, smoother and more radiant.

Available now in-store and on shoppersdrugmart.ca/beauty

JOWAE Hydrating Water Mist $19
This hydrating mist is inspired by Korean lotions and is used following make-up removal to add extra hydration  and refresh the skin with Sakura blossom hydrolat with antioxidant Lumiphenols in a fine and gentle mist.

Available now exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart

FOREO UFO Advanced Mask Collection, $25
I haven’t tried FOREO’s UFO Masks just yet, but I was definitely intrigued at the preview. FOREO’s new collection of five UFO Activated Mask formulas target a variety of skin concerns and combine a highly-concentrated face mask with an expert UFO treatment routine for total skin recovery. Sounds both high-tech and relaxing…sign me up!

Available now in-store and on shoppersdrugmart.ca/beauty

Shopping: SmartBuyGlasses


One of the easiest ways to look put together when you’re not feeling too hot is to throw on a pair of chic shades – no makeup required. Over the years I built a solid collection of fun sunnies for all occasions, so when SmartBuyGlasses.ca approached me for a collab, I didn’t have to think too hard. The selection of sunnies they carry is quite extensive, with brands like Alaia, Balenciaga, Chloe, Gucci, Saint Laurent, Valentino, and so many more, it’s easy to get a little carried away. Their prices are also very competitive, with discounts aplenty, and lightning-fast shipping times. They also stock some of the must-have designer pairs that are sold out everywhere else!

Since I love sunglasses with a little flair, I chose these Gucci cat-eye pearl-embellished sunnies, and I’ve been wearing them non-stop ever since. I think they add the much-needed glamour to my sometimes blah winter outfits, and I can’t wait to bring them with me on my next vacay.

If you’re looking for your next pair of sunglasses, glasses, or even ski goggles, make sure to check out the selection at SmartBuyGlasses.ca, you won’t be disappointed. Some of my fave pairs below!



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What They Wore: Holt Renfrew H Project Uncrate Southeast Asia


To celebrate the launch of H Project Uncrate Southeast Asia collection, Holt Renfrew threw a fab cocktail party hosted by Alexandra Weston, and complete with delicious (and almost too pretty to eat) bites by Chef Nuit Regular of Kiin, a special performance by Toronto Thai Dance Troupe, DJ Karim Olen Ash on the turntables, and some of Toronto’s best-dressed in attendance. 10% from all sales during the event was donated to Room to Read, a non-profit organization focused on girls’ education and literacy in Southeast Asia.

We got to check out the impressive newly-renovated H Project space on the third floor of the Bloor Street flagship, and of course, shop the new arrivals from the Uncrate Southeast Asia capsule. There were so many things to love – from stunning Kalita dresses, to chic Angelys Balek swimsuits, to adorable plush toys by Cambodia Knits. The Uncrate Southeast Asia collection highlights almost 20 brands like Beachgold, Kayu, Kandila Co, The Brave Collection, Girlfriend Collective and many more, with socially responsible products that are made with sustainable materials, produced by local artisans and communities. Beautiful products that create positive change in the world? What’s not to love?!

You can now shop Holt Renfrew’s Uncrate Southeast Asia collection in store at Bloor Street, Yorkdale, Square One, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and online until mid-summer. 





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CHANEL in The Snow Fall 2019 Collection

penelope-cruz-chanel
As someone who is really into snowboarding at the moment, the setting of the CHANEL in the Snow Fall 2019 Collection was thrilling to see. An entire collection of perfect apres ski clothes showcased in a faux alpine village, complete with Chalet Gardenia, CHANEL skis tucked into the snow, mountain backdrop, and of course, the snowy runway.

This was the first CHANEL show since Karl Lagerfeld’s passing, and most likely the last collection he co-designed with Virginie Viard (though rumour has it he had input into the upcoming cruise collection as well). It’s strange to think of CHANEL without Karl. The two have been inextricably linked since 1983 (longer than I’ve been alive!), and while I’m really excited to see where Virginie Viard will take the brand, I’m also sad that one of the most iconic designers to ever live is gone. To honour the late designer, there was a minute of silence before the show, and tearful models on the runway after, but the true celebration of his talent was the show and the collection itself.

Heavy on the menswear-inspired looks, with timeless oversized houndstooth suits and coats, substantial plaids, and high-waisted pants, but also with a good helping of cheerful bright tweeds, sheer tulle, iridescent sequins, and shiny leather, the Fall 2019 collection had the makings of a dream fall-winter wardrobe…mostly for off the slopes, but if I can get my hands on that fuzzy red CHANEL sweater, I’ll wear it all the time and for all occasions. No surprise, there were also a lot of gorgeous bags and accessories on the runway. As we know, Karl loved a cheeky minaudiere, and this collection was no exception. For CHANEL in the Snow, a ski lift minaudiere was introduced in three colourways, with “Coco” “drawn” on a steamy window. I’d love to see a “Karl” minaudiere in the future, and I wonder if that’ll ever happen.

What did you think of CHANEL in the Snow? Will you miss Karl Lagerfeld’s genius designs? Share your thoughts in the comments.

chanel-skis-winter-2019
chanel-logo-jumper-sweater
chanel-ski-lift-minaudiere


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WHAT I WORE

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