Redken Smooth Lock - Hair Heat Protection Products

           

Dealing with my hair has always been a struggle - we just don't get along - well, until recently that is. My hair  is extremely curly and frizzy; not that desirable loose curl that most women try to achieve. No, it's an unruly mess that is almost impossible to tame. All my life I’ve been searching for a miracle product to give me the type of hair I’ve always wanted. I’ve dreamt of the day that I wouldn't be afraid of water hitting my hair and covering my head with my purse to avoid the rain - which looks quite ridiculous. Now, I know that there is no product that will give me those beautiful loose curls or sleek straight hair without applying heat but I have found something very close. 

                   

What makes it work:

 1. Thermo-Active Polymer: helps retain internal moisture while locking out frizz

2. Almond Oil: conditions and coats hair for silky, smooth finish 

3. IPN (Interlock Protein Network): strengthens and reinforces hair 

Redken Smooth Lock Hair Heat Products is the answer to my prayers. This product is made to withstand extreme heat… my hair needs 410 degrees to go straight - Redkin’s Smooth and Lock heat-activated formulas infuse into the hair follicle for a long-lasting, flawlessly polished look that is more sleek and easy to maintain. A thermo active agent ensures that a barrier is formed to protect against heat and humidity -  which for someone like me is a game changer.  After the first use, there is a noticeable difference in the appearance and texture of your hair. What made me fall in love with this product was that even on those humid, rainy days my hair continued to behave it self - no frizz and stayed straight. My hair stays straight for three days (using batiste dry shampoo between washes) which saves me a lot of time ... time that I can spend with my son Max.

         

Would I recommend this to a friend … YES - and Im recommending it to anyone that has crazy hair like mine or that uses a lot of heat on their hair. 

Stay beautiful xO

East Thirty Six

While searching for the perfect place to go for our girls night, we stumbled across Toronto's newest hidden gem called "East Thirty Six".  

The night started out at the Pravda Vodka Bar, which at first seemed to be a great place to spend an evening with my ladies indulging in a few cocktails and appetizers. Unfortunately, in this case looks are deceiving.... before we even stepped into the Pravda Vodka Bar the door man was very rude and wasn't very welcoming, setting a negative energy from the get-go . When we went into the lounge, which was very crowed; barely room for the servers to get through let alone the guests. We were getting bumped into and my drink was spilt on me a couple times. We decided to step out for a moment and when I asked to walk back in, the door man said and I quote "umm no" and turned his head away. I felt very insulted and I don't think that any venue should treat their customers in this manner no matter how popular they are. Anyways, we decided to walk around and go into the first place that caught our eye. 

Not even 5 minutes away... a dimly lit lounge caught our eye and we decided to walk in and I'm glad we did. 

  

 Photo credit: Jesse Milns 

 

   Photo Credit: Nick Lee

     

     Photo Credit: Ashley Klassen 

 As soon as we walked in we were greeted by a server named Stanley, who was very polite and knew the menu very well. He suggested that we try smoked sweetbreads which consists of treviso an Italian vegetable also called "the winters flower", poblano - a mild chili pepper , pistachio, and romesco - a nut and red pepper-based sauce. I'm glad we took his advise because it was rich and exotic unlike anything that Ive tasted before; an explosion of flavour.  For drinks I ordered a Lee chi martini unaware of the restaurants signature cocktails. 

We got a round of The St-Germain which is constructed of Gin, St-Germain Elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup, Cava. Loved it!!!!

                   

            Photo Credit: Ashley Klassen 

I don't remember what this shot was called but it was just the right amount of deliciousness ... Is that even a word - who cares. 

                   

                                                           

                

               

         

                         

                 

Located on 36 Wellington Street East (Toronto) if your looking for a place with class, great music and service East Thirty Six definitely delivers. 

Cheers! 

Cuticle Tattoos

Temporary tattoos are making a comeback but not in the traditional sense. In the past couple of years nail art has been steadily gaining popularity thanks to social media sites like Instagram and Pinterest. Ciate, the trend-starting nail brand that brought us the now-infamous caviar liquor just launched cool cuticle transfers. Edgy nail art without the commitment or needle... I think YES!

Suggested Usage:

Select and carefully cut out your design, ensuring the size suits the cuticle.

Peel away the clear plastic backing.

Place sticky side down into position above the cuticle.

Soak the backing paper with water, press and hold for around ten seconds.

Slide the backing paper away to reveal your transfer tattoo, and wear on feature nails for a fresh look.

Pantone Spring 2014 - Part 1

Pantone is the authority on colour, provider of colour systems - giving us the guideline to a successful wardrobe.

"Designers take a modern twist on the traditional for spring 2014 by pairing soft pastels with vivid bright hue to create a colourful equilibrium. Inspired by a mixture of blooming flowers, travels abroad, and strong, confident women, designers use colour to refresh, revive and defy conventional wisdom." - Pantone

Celosia Orange 

Orange is the new black? No, I am not referring to the popular Netflix series  but rather the fierce hue that has been speckled all over the ready-to-wear shows for 2014.  Start out small flats, wedges, bangles, earrings, hats, a cocktail ring, or a scarf. When you feel bold enough you can move to bigger and better things such as, a tank, a pair of shorts, a headband or a bag.   The best way to rock this fiery hue is to pair it with neutrals especially the shade  white; giving you just the pop of colour you need without being an eye sore.

 Orange lipstick has always been around but now we are seeing it in more vibrate and brighter shades. Orange is reds younger, more playful - younger sister.

Dazzling Blue 

Pantone has declared Dazzling Blue the "it" colour of Spring 2014; you don't have to pull my arm to agree because I am absolutely in love with this colour. Coming from the cool side of the colour wheel described as a “peppy shade of cobalt” on the runways of New York, London, Milan and Paris. This shade of blue is easy to wear, looks good on just about anyone, and  can be incorporated in your daily look with minimal effort while still giving that big bang effect.

Paloma

This season, the fashion world has its eyes set on just one shade of grey "Paloma" serving as a neutral - being able to stand alone or combined with just ab out any colour. I've always worn a lot of grey because it has a sophisticated poise about it. If you want to wear this hue to its full potential and get that "wow factor" - pair it with Florescent Green, Freesia Yellow, Dazzling blue, or Radiant Orchid.

Freesia

This tropical inspired hue which is native to the eastern side of southern Africa, from Kenya down to South Africa is blazing yellow that is sure to illuminate wardrobes this season and into the next. Whether it's the main attraction or just an accent to your ensemble, it's a fun colour to play with. Yellow compliments just about any colour, especially navy blue, purple, green, pale blue, teal, and neutrals. If you are not used to wearing a lot of colours, it's best to start out with neutrals and work your way up to bolder pairings. 

Placid Blue 

When I first set my eyes on this colour, it reminded me of a perfect blue sky in the middle of July. This hue is a bit somber making it a perfect neutral to pair with the more vibrate colours. If your looking for a more timid, down-to-earth look I would pair this hue with "Paloma" Grey and White. 

The Perfect Hand Bag

After a long break from blogging, I have finally found something that inspired me to take sometime out of my busy schedule to write. It's been very hectic balancing a new born and getting ready to start school in May. As I'm preparing to go back to school, I've been trying to find products to help me stay organized and that's when I found this beauty.

For my ladies who are looking for a practical but stylish hand bag that takes you from morning to night, I have found the bag for you. While searching for a handbag that could fit all my essentials, I stumbled across  this DAGNE DOVER TOTE and fell head over heels. Now, I love my Michael Kors and I'm not one for infidelity but I must confess I have eyes for another. This tote is where fashion meets function, women no longer have to compromise their personal style to be organized.

 

                                                                                 

DETAILS

Dimensions: 20” x 8” x 10”

Handle Drop: 9.5"

Made of Coated Canvas

14k Gold plated Zinc-Alloy Hardware and Nappa Leather.

 Manufactured in the NYC Garment District

Available in these hues:

CLUTCH + WALLET

Dange Dover also carries a wallet + clutch combo which efficiently stores your essentials,  so you can go from your school or office- to a night out on the town.  What stands out most for me is the detachable card case to ensure that you will  never accidentally leave a credit card or ID in another purse. Seriously, where has this been my whole life?!!!!!

FEATURES

Detachable 8-Card Card Case with Cash and Coin Compartments

Hidden Pocket That Fits a Passport

Zip Pocket That Fits a Phone

Snap Pocket

Lip Gloss Holder

Key Strap and Dee-Rings for Key Clip (2)

DETAILS

Dimensions: 8.25" x 4.75"

Made of Coated Canvas, 14k Gold plated Zinc-Alloy Hardware and Nappa Leather.

Manufactured in the NYC Garment District.

Available in these hues:

Fall/Winter 2013 Trends

It's my favourite time of the year, pumpkin spiced lattes, leaves are changing, and no more humidity. As we make the transition from summer to fall, it's important to have this years essential items in our closets. At the end of every season I de-clutter my closet, getting rid of things (donating)  I know I won't wear  - that are just taking up valuable space in my closet. Out with the old and in with the new. Here is a list of fall must haves that everyone should have this season.

Camo - Military chic

 

Whether your in your teens or past your forties - male or female - people of all ages are being spotted wearing camouflage. You can add this hot trend to your wardrobe as an accessory or as the main attraction. Colours that are associated with camouflage are also in this season.

Craving for Leather Leggings

 

It's apparent that leather leggings are a red ticket item this fall/winter. For the last couple of years I have enjoyed wearing the classic black legging, but who are we kidding they've become a little predictable and boring. Sometimes a girl needs a  little edge and excitement in her life especially in

her wardrobe. Just remember to keep it simple.

 

 

 

 

 

Plaid - Punk Couture

 

 

No longer is plaid solely associated with the corny school girl outfit or button down flannels, plaid is making a come back and with vengeance this season. If your want to make a statement this season that says I am sexy, sleek, edgy and sophisticated than this print is definitely for you. Whether it's a shirt, skirt, pants dress, sweater, jacket, bag, scarf, heals or sneakers it's really up to you how you want to incorporate this into your everyday look.

 

 Sweater Weather

 

Nothing like a big comfy sweater to keep you warm and looking stylish. Sweaters with saying are very modern and trendy at the moment.

 

 

Champagneyaldii's Fall/ Winter Favourites

 

 

Over-the-Knee Boots

 

 

Absolutely in love with these faux leather boots I purchased from Aldo called "SKARIVANO" - Fold over collar option, rubber sole, wedge heel, decorative side buckle, 2 inch heal, and shaft Height: 20 in. Available in three different colours: cognac, midnight black, and black synthetic.

 

 

Thick Gold Chains

 

 

My chain was purchased at Guess last winter and it hasn't tarnished or lost colour.

 

 

Britax B-Agile Travel System Stroller

As we're getting closer to my due date and Max's arrival, we had to go ahead and purchase a car seat to bring him home in. We visited the local Babies 'R' Us to see what they had and what our best option was. There are so many car seats and strollers on the market, it can make it difficult for a consumer to decide which product is the most practical and the best choice. Many factors should be taken into consideration when choosing a stroller/car seat, like how often you are going to use it and what your going to use it for. For example, I have a five year old medium-sized dog that needs to be walked almost everyday and I do not drive. So when choosing stroller/car seat I made sure to keep that in mind.

Now, because we are first time parents we felt a little overwhelmed and didn't know where to start, so we decided to ask one of the employees at the store to to assist us.  She started showing us different strollers and I stopped her and I asked "What stroller would you use if you were having a child?" Right away, she said that she would buy the Britax B-Agile Travel System Stroller. When she took us over to the stroller I could see cosmetically why she liked the product, which was a bonus but I wanted a product that will be easy to use and fairly hassle-free. She than showed me why she liked the product and this was the key feature that sold us on this product.

 Yes! It was definitely the easy folding feature that made us fall in love with this stroller. 

How to fold the Britax B-Agile Travel System Stroller:

To fold the Stroller you begin by applying the brake and pressing the frame release button. Next, lift the frame release strap in the middle of the seat and pull upward until the stroller collapses and the chassis lock engages. The car seat that comes  with the stroller is also easy to remove and handle, which was our main concern. 

Bringing this product home and assembling it - took less than 15 minutes which was great because putting the nursery furniture was a pain. The product is lightweight (at 16.5 lb) and we cant wait to take Max for a ride!