Introducing eLUXE

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I’m so excited about this – I came out of my puppy bubble to blog about it! I’ve been a huge fan of Dealuxe since it launched a year ago and I’m especially fond of the affordable Daily Deals.

Founder & CEO Joanna Track has the right idea offering contemporary fashion and 100+ brands to Canadian shoppers without the unknown and expensive hassle of shipping and duty charges. No surprise coming from the woman who brought us Canada’s first online trend-spotting and lifestyle guide.

Joanna sold her baby, Sweetspot.ca, to Rogers in 2011 to focus on Dealuxe and was deeply saddened by the cancellation just a few weeks ago. With thousands of loyal fans and followers behind her, she bounced back with some exciting news yesterday…

After a successful first year and an amazing birthday pop-up sale, Joanna announced the re-branding of her latest empire – Dealuxe has become eLUXE. New name, same stylish pursuits. Check out the announcement.

It looks like they will be adding more editorial content to the already fabulous online shopping  and Virtual Stylist experience. The Daily Deal is still around, only now it’s called the Daily Fix.

I’m so happy for Joanna and her team and I know that eLUXE is gearing up for greatness. Sign up now for $10 off your next purchase!

Happy Shopping!

Puppy Love

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Tomorrow, the day before Mother’s Day, I will become a Mommy!

We’ve been excitedly awaiting the arrival of our furry little girl since she was born on March 8th and finally, after months of adorable photos, we get to pick her up tomorrow! We couldn’t be more excited for this adorable new family member and it’ll be great practice for our parental instincts – ya know – for some day.

It’s she the sweetest?! She’s a purebred German Pinscher and we’re naming her PIXEL. Nerdy puppy love! She’ll grow up to be about 30-35 pounds, perfect for our little house in the Toronto Beaches. In case you’re wondering – we’re keeping her ears natural.

So while this news isn’t fashion or beauty related, I just had to share it with you and give you the heads up that I may be a little distracted for a while. Don’t worry, I won’t forget about the blog, but I probably won’t be posting as frequently. I’ll be running on 3 hours sleep a night at first – but it’ll be worth it!

Tomorrow!!!

PS – I think I deserve a Mother’s Day card on Sunday ;)

MET Gala 2012 Fave: Diane Kruger

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I know…you’ve already seen a ton of MET Gala 2012 coverage and I’m a couple days behind. I wasn’t even sure I was going to blog about it since I knew the interwebs would be over-saturated – but one of my favourite looks hasn’t been getting much love so I had to chime in.

Diane Kruger looked effortlessly chic and romantic in a bold purple Prada layered chiffon gown with a striking ostrich feathered hemline. She never fails to look flawless – whether it’s Coachella or the red carpet – her bohemian style is delightful.

I adore the full skirt on this dress, the deep v-neckline and simple straps. My only criticism – I wish the bodice was a little more fitted around the waist – it does look super comfy though! Good for you girl – while everyone else was cramming themselves into the tightest dresses ever – you chose something loose and flowy. Love it!

Not many people can get away with wearing such low-key hair and makeup on the red carpet, but Diane Kruger makes it glamorous. Her hair is casually draped over her shoulder with minimal styling and her makeup is natural and flawless. Gold eyeshadow gives her eyes center stage, complimented with soft pink cheeks and lips. Stunning!

I love it all – right down to the simple vintage accessories and that hot pink jewel-embellished clutch.

I know the MET Gala is the “Oscars of fashion” and everyone brings their sartorial A-game, but frankly – more celebs looked awkward and uncomfortable this year than I recall in years past. Kudos to Diane for looking elegant, glamorous and comfortably true to her own style.

What was your favourite look from the MET Gala?

Dainty Outfit: Spring Mint

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It’s no secret – I have an obsession with dresses. As the weather gets warmer, I switch from my darker, more structural dresses to flowing frocks in a warmer colour palette suited for sunny days.

The challenge is, I work in a corporate office and need to cover up many of my sleeveless, backless and strappy seasonal styles so they’re office appropriate.

I’m not shy about colour in the office, brushing off the “Whoah, that’s bright” comments when I wear bold colours and *gasp* sometimes neon or *double gasp* colour blocking. I look forward to shedding the layers at 5pm to expose cute cutouts and details that I’ve covered all day with a cardigan or blazer. Just once, I’d like to wear full-on sequins to work to see their faces ;)

Okay, rant over. Today’s Dainty Outfit is a minty one! I love this colour for spring – it looks great with gold accessories and soft pink/coral makeup. To put the diatribe above in context, this dress has a stunning v-back, that unfortunately I have to hide all day. Luckily, it still looks good with my favourite tuxedo blazer and since it’s not quite warm enough (for me) to wear open-toe shoes, I can tie it all together with my go-to black booties.

Transitional dressing can be difficult but I like the challenge! What do you think?

Dress from Zara, blazer from Jacob, necklace from Elle Hardware, bracelet from JewelMint, ring by Dear Faithful, shoes from Nine West and purse from Michael Kors.

Foxy Originals Winner: Follow Up!

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I love hearing back from my readers through blog comments, email, Twitter or Facebook.

They let me know when I’m on the right track (or not), share their experiences and learn from mine. It’s so rewarding to know that the posts I write in my spare time have made their way into people’s lives and maybe even their daily surfing!

Last week I was thrilled to hear from my Davie & Chiyo contest winner, Heather, with some stunning professional photos of her with her new custom clutch. I hope my feature and her photos will inspire you to check out this awesome Etsy shop!

This week, I’m pleased to bring you an update from my Foxy Originals contest winner, Stephanie! After winning the contest on April 23, she chose the Trinity Necklace in gold as her prize. Check it out:

Beautiful choice Stephanie! The Trinity Necklace by our friends at Foxy Originals looks amazing on you and it’s the perfect dainty piece for spring! Thanks for sharing your excitement – it’s the best part for me :)

Stay tuned for more dainty contests and promotions!

Vince Camuto Fall 2012 Collection

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A few weeks ago, I shared the exciting news that Vince Camuto is coming to Canada – not just with his famous footwear, but with a brand new lifestyle collection that extends to clothing, handbags, accessories and more! Last Friday I attended an exclusive media presentation of the fall 2012 Vince Camuto collection – and ladies – there is some amazing stuff coming our way!

At the swanky Arcadian Loft in downtown Toronto, guests enjoyed bubbly and nibbles while admiring urban accessory vignettes and a fall fashion preview from Vince Camuto himself!

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MoonRox Jewellery + Coupon Code!

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I am definitely on an accessories kick right now.

I usually give my attention (and my pay cheques) to new dresses and shoes, but if I’m going to successfully tame the beast that is my closet, I’ve got to shift my fashion focus to something! So this season, it’s all about baubles, bangles and bags to quench my thirst for pretty things!

Everyday basics are brought to life with colour, mixed metals and textures and my existing wardrobe is transformed with endless variations born from bold jewellery and fun accessories. Online marketplaces like Etsy are brimming with unique options to fit any budget – and this is where I made my latest discovery – MoonRox.

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Davie & Chiyo Winner: Follow Up!

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As a blogger, I get to try new products, attend exciting events and experience great fashion and beauty with inspiring people.

I love partnering with fashionable, fun and artistic local businesses to offer contests and promos – so you can share in this joy with me!

Over the past couple of months I’ve hosted a number of fun and fashionable contests, with more to come, and I was thrilled to hear back from one of my winners the other day!

Heather was the lucky winner of the Davie & Chiyo Contest and she loves her pretty new custom clutch so much that she sent some beautiful photos to show it off!

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ANTM Live Starts Today!

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If you haven’t heard the buzz about ANTM Live this weekend – this is your heads up ladies! CBS is expanding the America’s Next Top Model franchise by launching this live event in our great city of Toronto!

Based on the successful reality TV show, the Live show at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre will bring the style and glamour to life! Fans will enjoy free makeovers, shopping, fashion shows and beauty advice from industry experts. Aspiring young models will also get the chance to walk the catwalk and learn how to break into the industry. But that’s not why I’m going…

This show boasts a wide variety fun, fierce and fabulous fashion-forward exhibitors and brands along with industry leading sponsors and an amazing celebrity line-up! I can’t wait to take it all in and meet some great local designers and talent! I’m really excited about the French Connection Style Stage, the School of Makeup Art Beauty Bar and the Pandora Open Catwalk with Jeanne Beker on Saturday! So many fashion and beauty experts that I look up to will be in the same building this weekend!

Are you coming out? I’ll be there all day Saturday! Here’s a coupon from our friends at Homegrown Boutique for $3 off admission – enjoy and I hope to see you there!

Ann and Arayata Accessories

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I’ve always been drawn to handcrafted and unique accessories that set me apart from the crowd. The right accessories can make the outfit – from jewellery, shoes and handbags, right down to nail polish and lip gloss. I was thrilled to discover Elle Hardware on Queen West; home to a smorgasbord of inspirational accessories, including the latest addition to their repertoire – Ann and Arayata.

Last Friday, Elle Hardware hosted a trunk show to introduce the collection over champagne and nibbles. I had the opportunity to meet Founder and Creative Director Lara Stephenson – and she is one inspiring woman!

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