greetings from boston,

I am currently in downtown Boston, on a blistering 40 degree summers day. It’s so humid I feel like I can’t breath properly; but I’ll endure the potential asthma attack in order to reach my destination: the Marc by Marc Jacobs store. It has been a long time in the making: countless purchases made online from sparse selections, and over-priced indulgences from larger retailers. I could only dream about reaching the actual home base of the designer I loved so much, and blowing all my money on the “special items”. For those of you who are unfamiliar with these “items”, they are everything from jewellery, to screen printed tees and bags. Why are they so great? Almost all of it is under $100.00 US; but there’s a catch. You can only invest in these great finds in store, no ordering online or buying at a secondary retailer. Oh, and by the way, there are under 10 of these stores in North America.

So what did I pick up? An art deco geometric metallic ring and bracelet, a wish bone and skull necklace, and a snazzy laptop sleeve (not a special item).

Wishbone Necklace, Marc Jacobs special item

Skull Necklace, Marc Jacobs special item

Ring, Marc Jacobs special item

What else did I get up to this week? Purchased some leather over the knee boots, the Michael Kors Bromley to be exact.

Boot, Michael Kors Bromley, $270.00 CAD

Well that’s as interesting as it’s going to get, so au revoir for now my friends,

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” – Coco Chanel

autumn is a second spring where every leaf is a flower

It is once again that time of year! Back to school, college, whatever.  No matter how much I try to depress myself over the matter, I simply cannot. Rich fabrics, dark and moody makeup, leather boots, and the feeling that anything is possible makes September exciting. Maybe this seems like a random post, consisting of a bipolar mismatch of topics; but to me they all mesh well together. Enjoy…

Sperry Top-Siders

So I know there has been a certain amount of hype surrounding these shoes, however, I grew up in boat shoes and do not find them glamourous whatsoever. That being said, I stumbled across these fabulous boots, and intend on adding them to my closet. I am already planning to wear them to a concert in October.

Sperry Top-Sider Bellport Boot- $98.00 US

FURFURFUR

Next on my wish-list? An effing sick fur vest. Not a huge one, just enough fur to look like Jackie-O on a casual day. I have no idea where to look? I did find ones from Kensie and Loft, but nothing special.

Talula Fur Vest

Grecian Inspired Dream Dress

This dress is the most gorgeous creation since the Armani Camilla Belle wore to the met ball.  I have to have it. PROBLEM. I’m blowing $1200.00 on a pair of thigh high boots and pumps. It is so beautiful though… maybe I’ll just try it on?

Alice+Olivia dress-$368.00 US

How come my blog always seems like a shopping list? Argh, I’ve got clothes on the mind. I have got to cut myself off. New topic.

MAC and MAC

Okay so let’s start with MAC (cosmetics). I bought a pro palette a few years ago, but couldn’t validate buying the special shadows that fit in the palette when I already had them in pots. I could never work my way through all the shadows still in pots, so I gave up hope, and put my pro palette at the back of my makeup drawer… until the other day when youtube helped me out. This video shows how to crack open, and depot shadows so they fit your palette; be warned, it involves hot appliances and melting glue.

Here to demonstrate how great it is to fill a pro palette is my friend Victoria. Props to you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfQMPVtrsvw

Next up are MAC (computers). I am almost positive I am purchasing a Macbook Pro 15.2 tomorrow. What accessories should I get? I am set on a wireless mouse, but is the Mac magic mouse really better? and what about speakers and software? ahhhhhhhhh. Tips? Help? Let me know, pleaseee.

Ta ta for now. I shall be back soon, hopefully on my new laptop…

Lookbook!

Today I got on lookbook, horay! So check out the site and my profile and hype, hype, hype!

http://lookbook.nu/user/217645-Madison-G

and the weeds grew taller than the flowers,

Last week my friend and I ventured into the wilderness to capture some whimsical photos. Here are the results (there was no apparent theme or inspiration, just nonsense) :

It is 30 degrees plus at home. Therefore, I have been forced to take refuge in the comforting air-conditioned house. Hence, I have had copious amounts of time to lurk online. These are the items that my soon full coin jar will be contributing to.

1. Christian Louboutin Patent Rolando Pumps -$665.00 US

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Over-the-Knee Boots- $545.00 US

3. A snazy new backpack (Marc by Marc Jacobs)- $158.00 US

4. Metallic ballet flats, preferably Miu Miu, Lanvin, or Marni

A Diamond in the Rough

And just because I love my readers so much, here is my secret list of amazing Toronto Vintage stores.

Fashionably Yours- http://fashionablyyours.ca/. More of a designer consignment than vintage, but still excellent.

Paper Bag Princess-http://www.thepaperbagprincess.com/boutiques/toronto-boutique/

I Miss You- http://www.torontolife.com/guide/fashion/vintage-clothing/i-miss-you/. Great for vintage coach bags, 60′s and 70′s frocks, and glittery designer wear.

Thrill of the Find- http://www.blogto.com/fashion/thrillofthefind

The Closet Inc. – Ok, so this one isn’t in Toronto, it’s in Boston. However it is truly phenomenal.

When I find more gems I shall let you know.

Beauty Update

The new Diorshow Maximizer Lash Pluming Serum promises to “instantly prime, plump, and lengthen”. Hmm, skeptical? Definitely. Well, the reviewers on Sephora.com aren’t. One woman parrots  ”It does everything it claims to. In general, I love Dior’s mascaras, and this is the perfect compliment to them. My lashes look and feel wonderful!” I think I shall give this a try and post my findings on a later date.

Diroshow blahblahblah etc… ($28.00 US)

Another product I am dying to try is MUFE’s Aquarell, a highly pigmented paint that can be used on face or body. It comes in such an array of colours that choosing one will be difficult. I think I will settle for the black or violet.

MUFE Aquarelle $20.00 US

Last up is a fetish worthy set of temporary tattoos by Temptu. It’s a good test run for anyone thinking of making them permanent. Trust me, you’ll want to test first… too many friends have gotten silly stars or hearts tattooed in seemingly discrete places, only for them to be spotted by bosses or parents.

Temptu Adorn Temporary Tattoo Kit. $25.oo.

On that note, what do you think of the tattoo I am considering? It’s a gun. WAIT. Before you judge, let me inform you of it’s meaning. My last name is pronounced like “gun”, and it’s like keeping a part of my family with me at all times. I am the last of the “gun” line, and when I marry, it will disappear forever. It is to be put under my armpit, where a bra or bathing suit covers it up. It’s the same one Rihanna has, although I will modify the gun’s actual design.  Here’s a photo of the general idea:

Bye-bye for now!

“My body is a journal in a way. It’s like what sailors used to do, where every tattoo meant something, a specific time in your life when you make a mark on yourself, whether you do it yourself with a knife or with a professional tattoo artist.” -Johnny Depp

you don’t take a photograph, you ask quietly to borrow it

I was at an easter egg hunt the other day, christening my new SLR, when the idea dawned on me to have my friends model for me. These are the results.Enjoy. Photoshop-free.

hopefully more to come!

“Look I’m not intellectual, I just take pictures”- Helmut Newton

Spring Awakening

Today I came to the realization that though seasons change, people do not. They always revert back to their tried and trusted looks. Time to break the mold! Along with my spring cleaning I will force myself to try new things; things that don’t involve cardigans, flats, and moccasins. Item number one? A pair of Ray-ban sunglasses (like the ones I got for my prescription glasses). Number two? Brogues. Number 3? Lace. With nothing underneath. Rebel. Four? Some proper pants. As in not jeans or leggings. Good old fashioned pants. Five? A floral print blouse (it doesn’t sound innovative, but trust me, it is for me…). Six? A bright colour. I am so tired of wearing blacks, beiges, grays, and creams! If you can think of any other classy but interesting look, let me know. I am up for anything unless it involves less than 50% clothing, or head to toe leather. Ahem, classy. Just maybe “classy rebel”.

Unknown lady, Ray-bans $159.00 CAN

Brogues, Ports 1961 $395.00 US

Lace tee, American Apparel $45.00 CAN

Trousers on unknown lookbook.nu user. Wilfred.

Blouse, Patterson J. Kincaid $98.00 US

Colourful skirt, Twenty8Twelve $225.00 US

The Selena Dress

So I wore the selena dress to an event dubbed “semi-formal”.  I loved it, and am currently trying to decide where I can wear it next. A wedding perhaps? Any ideas on how I could make it work for a daytime California wedding would be appreciated.

Lists, Lists, Lists

I purchased a very pretty notebook the other day without an intended purpose. When I got home, I decided to be adventurous and attack my spring cleaning. I had a garbage pile, a keep pile, and a list pile. Yes, that’s right, I had a stack of lists. So I decided to create a book of lists. Its strangely satisfying to cross things off once they are accomplished/ bought. I think it will be quite interesting to look back on the lists years from now. Sort of like a twisted, vague diary.

P.S- my photography page is updated

Happy Easter atheists, agnostics, and theologians alike!

“Everything ends.”- Anon

All that Sparkles…

So it’s that time again! With Christmas comes sparkling lights, decadent desserts, and heaps of snow. But it also brings an abundance of parties for which one needs to dress themselves. Here are a couple stellar outfit choices for Christmas and New Years Parties alike. 

Look Number One

L.A.M.B – Faran Heel $359.00 (US)

BCBG – one-shoulder dress $260.00 (US)

Look Number Two

Beyond Vintage – Zebra Cold-Shoulder Dress $300.00 (US)

Giuseppe Zanotti – Mesh Open Toe Platform Booties $795.00 (US)

Look Three

Alice + Olivia – Wrapped Goddess Dress $264.00 (US)

Alice + Olivia- Sequin Tulle Cascade Cardigan $385.00(US)

L.A.M.B- Zaila Open Toe Booties $325.00 (US)

Look Four

Alice + Olivia- Sequin Leggings $298.00(US)

Kain Label – Triple Strap Tank $88.00(US)

S.W.O.R.D- Novara Leather Jacket $902.00(US)

Jenni Kayne- Open Toe Pleat Booties $495.00(US)

Look Five

Wilfred – Bustier Tank $40.00(CAN)

LaROK- Tulle Skirt $218.00(US)

Pencey- Warrior Blazer $288.00(US)

Stewart Weitzman- Fullup Platform Pumps with Open Toe $345.00(US)

Look Six

American Apparel- Lightweight Sheer Rib Raglan Pullover $40(CAN)

Haute Hippie – Ombre Skirt $395.00(US)

Elizabeth & James – Fiona Haircalf Ankle Booties $475.00(US)

Now what to accessorize these lovely outfits with? You decide:

Necklaces

From left: Landvar Mixed Chain Necklace $98.00(US), Fiona Paxton Lyon Necklace $400.00(US), Sachin + Babi Bowery Necklace $325.00(US)

Clutches

From left: Deepa Gurnani Zipper Clutch $165.00(US), CC Skye Rich Hippie Clutch $250.00(US)

Let 2009 go out in style! Goodbye for now…

“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right”- Oprah Winfrey

If you are not in fashion you are nobody,

I will finally be going shopping this weekend to get my fall fashion fix. Items on my list?  pencil jeans, ankle boots (I know everyone is excited about over-the-knee, but they just aren’t for me), a couple essentials, christmas gifts, and of course, makeup refills. Now some things I don’t necessarily need, but they make me want to empty the bank account. Scrumptiously soft leather gloves, a checkbook style wallet in red, purple, teal, or gray, a fitted black blazer, a bustier tank top, a romantic organza skirt, cocktail rings and necklaces in ridiculously oversized proportions, and ludicrously large knits. Wish me luck! P.S, I’m not actually considering buying the Christian Louboutins…. yet! I have a coin jar and I’m saving up baby!

Coach gloves- $98-128

Coach ring- $98

Coach ankle boot- $178

Jbrand pencil jeans- $220

NARS the multiple- $46

Christian Louboutin Pump- $725

Talula lace dress

Remember those glasses I wanted? Well I got them:) Ray-ban wayfarers with the UV lenses removed and my prescriptions added!

Lastly, I got my american apparel bag of scraps, and hopefully I’ll have some crafts to show off very soon. I was thinking a downtown quilt? 

Ok, I lied! One last thing. I got the BCBGMaxazria dress that I saw on Selena Gomez. Excited? Very!

“I dress up like it’s the eighties”- Redfoo or Skyblu, who knows?

How To Walk in High Heels

This post is mostly bits & pieces I’ve collected in my brain for the past 2 months. School & life have been weighing me down, but I’m back! & ready to blog like crazy. 

I ordered some books from amazon a couple weeks ago, & I am super pumped to read them. Here are a few:

The Sartorialist

The Sartorialist is a blog run by Scott Shuman. It is based upon photographs that Scott takes around the world, centering on the major fashion capitals. His shots of “inspirational” people, in beautiful clothing have wowed the fashion community. The book is a collection of his personal favourites, and is available in most bookstores. http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

A photograph from a recent blog post. 

Another must have is WhoWhatWear. Again, another book based on a fashion blog. In this case, the blog WhoWhatWear run by Katerine Power, and Hillary Kerr. The book contains beauty and styling tips, loosely influenced by the blog. http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/aboutus.php

Last up, is the one I cannot wait to dig into: Influence by Mary-Kate Olsen. I LOVELOVELOVE, the twins style! It seems to be perfectly represented in this artsy, eclectic, mish-mash of inspirations brought together into a book. 

I’ll read and review all the books and let you know if they are any good ASAP!

 

I found a really cool photographer named Marilyn Minter. She recently collaberated with MAC and took this stunning picture. For more info, Google her name.

Here are some of her other amazing shots

 

What’s your favourite store? Mine is Holt Renfrew, I’m an all Canadian girl(: They have such a retro-vibe. It feels like you’re shopping in the glamour of the 50′s. They still shoot and send out fantastic look-books or catalogues, and have a cafe, personal shoppers, and exclusive brands. Although they have a knack for all vintage traditions, they are proving their aptitude for technology. They recently launched a video featuring top models Coca Rocha (ahem, Canadian?), and Behati Prinsloo. It is so authentically Holts! Shot in Toronto’s own Gladstone Hotel, the video brings old school swagger to the evolving world of fashion and beauty. This video inspired me so much, that I tried to take still images of the whole thing. Too bad they are tres blurry. I LOVE it. I am just itching to get into Holts this season. Oh, and P.S, that fab music it is set to? The reeling by Passion Pit. http://www.holtrenfrew.com/holts/pages/video/womens-fall-2009-vignette.dot?language_id=1

While on the topic of Holts, I’d like to share my Fall/Winter wish list (all the items can be purchased there).

1. J-brand cigarette jeans. $159.00

2. Ankle boots. Coach or BCBG perhaps?

3. Leather Gloves. Coach for sure. $98.00

4. Cashmere sweater. Not completely sure? Thinking Autumn Cashmere or Hayden… $250.00

5. Bib necklace. Honestly no clue…. ? 

Juicy Couture $228.00

Free People $198.00

6. Geek Glasses; I was told I needed glasses, so I thought, why not make a statement? Ray-ban is essential.

7. STILL want a boyfriend blazer. Or a blazer of any kind really. Refer to older posts:)

 

Lastly for today, I got 3 fish and an aquatic frog. I’m trying to think of creative fashion-forward names for them. Help? Much appreciated.

“The difference between style and fashion is quality”- Giorgio Armani

Fall Beauty: To The Max… Or Min?

Everything about this season’s beauty  is scarily intimidating. From 80′s clown masks to 90′s minimalism, these looks can be hard to recreate without looking, uh, how shall we put this? UGLY. So here are the right, and wrong ways to paint your face this fall.

80′s Full Face

 To pull this look of, do it in a modern way. What’s modern? A dewy/fresh face; no over powdering allowed! Another hint: although contoured cheeks are a must, they have to be done naturally. A.k.a not bright red. Lastly, if you insist on using lipliner either use it tres, tres sparingly, or fill in the whole lip. I am highly disappointed with the looks created by Francois Nars, creator of NARS cosmetics for Marc Jacobs after a 10 year hiatus.

4 looks created by Nars, for Marc Jacobs Fall 09. WRONG

Emanuel Ungaro got the 80′s “in a modern way” look just RIGHT! Hello two-toned lips!

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

1. shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Pink Collection, $23

2. Urban Decay eyeliners, $18

3. Nars blush/bronzer duo, $37

4. Lorac Breakthrough Performance Lipstick SPF 15, $22

Oh Natural

The bare-faced look is an ode to the Kate Moss 90′s minimalist look. This doesn’t mean “no makeup”, it means “lots of makeup to look like no makeup”. There were many very good examples this season, and a couple horrendous ones. Enter Jill Sander and Miu Miu. Sure these girls still look gorgeous, but they are perfectly structured and groomed models! If an average woman tried to wear this, she would look prepubescent, or worse granny-ish! Actually I retract my statement that the models look good in any makeup, the one from Miu Miu looks partially deceased. Chloe hit the right notes with a brown smoky eye and smooth foundation.

Chloe doing it RIGHT

Jill Sander and Miu Miu doing it WRONG.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

1.Yves Saint Laurent TOUCHE ÉCLATRadiant Touch, $42

2.Stila Smudge Pots, $20

3. Make Up Forever Face and Body Foundation, $38

4.Yves Saint Laurent OMBRES 5 LUMIÈRES5 Colour Harmony For Eyes – 1 Sahara, $56

Red Lip

The red lip is a classic that has endured decades and yet still looks exceptionally chic at every age. Yves St. Laurent, Lacroix, and D&G perfected this timeless look. Unfortunately for humanity at large, McQueen did his models up like clowns; the only thing missing is a bright red nose.

 

RIGHT at YSL, Lacroix, and D&G. 

WRONG at Alexander McQueen.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

1.MAKE UP FOR EVER Lipstick, $23

2. Calvin Klein Electric Edge Liquid Liner, $18

3.Benefit Cosmetics Benetint, $28

4.MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Lip Waterproof Lipliner Pencil, $17

Pompadour Hair

They can be the epitome of cool, or the definition of god-awful: whether you like it or not, pompadours are back. Everyone from Milly to Oscar de la Renta was showing them elegantly. However, Prada displayed exactly what not to do; a truly horrible up-do was complimented by an equally gargantuan amount of frizzy mouse hair.

RIGHT at Milly and Oscar de la Renta

WRONG at Prada

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

1.Phyto Phytovolume Actif Maximizing Volume Spray – Fine Limp Hair

2. Jonathan Product Dirt Texturizing Paste, $14-25

3. Sephora Brand Snag Free Hair Elastics, $10

4.Sephora Brand Wide Tooth Comb, $4

“Beauty, to me is being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick ass red lipstick!”- Gwyneth Paltrow

Current Obsessions

I am dying to see all the new fall movies! In particular the two fashion films, The September Issue, and Coco avant Chanel. The first is a documentry that follows Anna Wintour as she assembles the notoriously juicy september issue of Vogue. Is she really as catty as the devil wears Prada? We will see… The latter is a bioepic of Coco Chanel before she was famous, starring the ever-glamorous Audrey Tautou. Here are the previews:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvDFPjx-uBU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tq4wo4JYy2s

This movie may look silly but it’s based on my favorite childhood book: Cloudy with a chance of meatballs. I was pretty darn obsessed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OP9wtdwgeok

I am also proud to announce the discovery of a really amazing line. Well, it’s a first for me at least…

Introducing Alternative Apparel; kind of like American Apparel, just not so 80′s grotesque, more timeless grandfather? If that makes sense… Only one problem; they don’t have actual stores, so you can only order online or buy at select retailers. But the brand refuses to list what stores sell the brand because it breaks “confidentiality”, OKAY.

Here are some of my favorites:

Another fantastic find: WhoWhatWear. Probably the best style blog around. It has everything and anything; and if you find a picture of an outfit you like, you can email it to them and they’ll play detective to find what label it is!

http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/home.php

Whistles, is a UK based high street store that offers a variety of wonderfully made knits, dresses, trousers, jeans, accesories, and tops. The price points are medium, but the pieces are top quality.

http://www.whistles.co.uk/

“fashion always moves forward”- Anna Wintour

Fall Fashion Revisited

I’ve been inhaling all the September magazines, and have got a lot more things to talk about, so I’ve continued my fall fashion post. First off, I purchased the marc by marc jacobs nylon tote. LOVE IT(: But I was surprised at how large it was. I opened the package and was completely shocked. I am 5’9, and am dwarfed by it.

marc by marc jacobs nylon tote $188

I’ve also been religiously watching season 2 of Gossip Girl, which was released on DVD on Aug. 17. Only one peeve: it’s 7 discs, which adds up to about $40 at blockbuster. I could’ve bought it for $30:| Why so many? I have no clue… last year had the same amount of content and half that many. Season 3 airs Sept 14th!!!

Season 2 DVD $38

I have also added an ample amount to my wish list.

Numero uno is a horozontally stripped long sleeved top. Perfect for layering in the fall.

Next up is a funky pencil case. I have no clue where to get one?!? help!

I am also craving a gray liquid liner and nail polish. The gunmetal shade is perfect for autumn.And the new matte nail polishes? FABULOUS.

YSL polish in tuxedo gray about $24

OPI matte collection $10 each

Urban Decay liquid liner in Gray $18

I have been wanting to try out the whole winged liquid liner look with red lips. But alas, my lipstick is in a sorry state. So I’ll need one of those too…

Makeupforever lipstick in blue red $19

I also really want ankle boots! But they can’t cost a fortune because I don’t really need them:)

Coach boots $180

There is so much more I want! But I’ll end my list with a fancy semi-formal dress. This one from BCBG is stunning! I saw it worn by Selena Gomez a couple months ago and fell in love. I saw it on the website yesterday and just about died.

Selena Gomez in BCBG. Love the dress, hate the shoes:| Dress $260

So that’s the end of my wish list for back to school, I’ll leave you with a few autumn beauty tips.

1. If you are tired of your summer scent but not willing to wear the powerful scents of winter, mix the two! Take a light citrus and layer it over a musky winter fragrence.

2. Make your shower ultra sensual by sprinkling a few drops of  essential oil on the floor of your shower. When you turn on the heat, the steam will release the aroma all around your body.

3. Skip choosing one feature to accentuate this September; accentuate them all! After all, 80′s makeup is back… just do it tastefully. A bright pink lip CAN be paired with an aqua liner; just keep the skin bare and brows simple.

bright lips on Alexis Bledel

4. Wear glitter around your eyes. Take a pot of cosmetics glitter and use a thin brush to line the lashes. Make sure to wet the brush or apply Vaseline beforehand to make it stick!

Makeupforver glitter $18

5. Your hair has been drying out all summer from UV rays and chlorine. Give it a break by leaving it for an extra day or two before washing. AHEM, make sure to use a dry shampoo though.

Fekkai dry shampoo powder $25

“I love the confidence that makeup gives me”- Tyra Banks

Cake Bake

Hello! So lately I’ve been watching a lot of Cake Boss, and Ace of Cakes on TLC. I’m really inspired to create one of those gorgeous cakes! They are so wonderful! I am actually tres, tres excited like you would not believe. I’ve created a list of steps to make one of these monstrous creations; but be warned: these are not for the faint-hearted.  I am planning a 3 tiered, chocolate, vanilla, chocolate cake. With fondant instead of icing. First off, the supplies you’ll be needing to bake the actual cake part:

Chocolate Cake

• 1/2 cup butter

• 11/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 eggs, well-beaten

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 2 cups flour

• 1/2 cup cocoa

• 4 tsp. baking powder

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 11/4 cups milk

Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, beating lightly. Sift flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt. Add to creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Beat mixture well. Pour batter into 2 8″ X 10″ layer cake pans and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Now be sure you oil the pan VERY well. We are making a cake of great proportions, thus it will have tiers. And the cake falling apart while trying to pry it from the pan makes pretty shitty layers.

Vanilla Cake

• 3 cups sifted cake flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 6 tablespoons butter

• 1-1/2 cups sugar

• 1 cup milk

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  

• 6 egg whites

Preheat oven to 325. Grease and line 2 9-inch cake pans with parchment. Sift together flour and baking powder. Set aside. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. With a mixer on slow speed, add flour mixture to the butter mixture,alternately with milk. Beat after each addition. Beat in vanilla.
Whip the egg whites until stiff but not dry.  Fold them into the cake batter gently, making sure not to over mix. Pour into prepared pans. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.  Place cake pans on cooling rack and allow to cool completely before removing from pans. AGAIN. Grease heavly!

Now it may seem obvious but for this cake to work, you must use 3 DIFFERENT sized cake pans. E.g. small medium large. Just making sure…

Now while, your hard work rises in the oven, time for more hard work! Time to make fondant! Fondant is basically an icing that is pre-flattened so you just drape it over the cake. It creates a perfectly smooth surface and a professional look.

Fondant

• 2lbs of sifted confectioner’s sugar
• 1 packet of gelatin (one tablespoon)
• 1/2 a cup white corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon flavoring
• one tablespoon glycerin
• 1/4 cup cold water
• various food coloring

1. Sift sugar. No lumpy bits=smooth surface.

2.  Sprinkle the gelatin powder into the cold water. Let set 2 mins.

3. While it’s setting place a small pot with about half an inch of water to simmer.

4. Place the gelatin bowl ABOVE the water, so that the gelatin melts. DO NOT pour the gelatin and water mixture into the simmering water.

5. Turn the burner off once the bowl is over top.

6. Add the flavouring, glycerin, and corn syrup.

7. Stir well.

8. Now get a LARGE bowl and pour about half the sifted sugar in. Create a well in the middle.

9. Pour the warm goo in.

10. Mix.

11. Add one more cup sugar; and from here on in, only add 1/2 cup until it’s all in. Continue mixing until it gets to stiff to continue mixing. It should be kinda sticky. Add food coloring here.

12. So now we knead. Dust sugar on the counter top so as to prevent the fondant from sticking. Also grease your hands lightly. Knead into a ball.

13. When rolling fondant for cake application your goal is about 1/4 inch thickness. You could also add food colouring to individual bits of fondant later rather than while mixing. Your choice.

Assembly

OK, so the cakes are cooling, and your fondant is currently in a ball. You can fondant each tier individually or the cake as a whole. Your choice once again. But if you go for the latter, make sure there is enough fondant to cover the ENTIRE cake. Sorry, just checking. When piling the tiers on top of one another, make sure that they hold each others weight. And also make sure to put a layer of icing in between. Otherwise they will fall over, and all your work will be ruined. Roll your fondant, color it, etc… and apply it. If you really want to be professional you can dry ice the cake before you apply fondant. It will make it more secure.

VOILA! You are done! Now you can used more fondant or normal icing to complete the cake. (:

Here are some great examples of tiered fondant cakes!

“If people don’t have food, let them eat cake!”- Marie Antoinette

Back to School Buys

Summer is already half done, and although I want to saver every last second of heat (more like rain), I am also kind of obsessed with fall accesories and fashion(: So here are my top picks for fall fashion

Bags

Large and roomy is the way to go! I’ve never quite understood why people buy those stupid small bags that hold a phone and a quarter. Unless it’s a black tie affair or you legitimantly only have to carry a couple coins, you’re going to look like a moronic, tween-ish, wannabee. Maybe the draw is because they’re cheaper? Anyways, bright shades, a spacious interior, and a classic line are whats right now in bags. I’m personally favouring a large tote for my books this year. As par usual, look to Longchamp, marc jacobs, Chloe, and as much as these designers make me gritt my teeth: Juicy Couture and Betsey Johnson.

marc by marc jacobs tote- $188.00

marc by marc jacobs tote- $153.00

see by Chloe tote $112.00

Longchamp Le Pliage $145.00

Juicy Couture “yearbook” tote. It comes with permanent markers so people can sign it! $66.00

Shoes

I want moccasins! They look so comfy, and warm; yet they are not nearly as ghastly as uggs!

see by Chloe – $185.00

Juicy Couture – $225.00

Boots
I want ankle boots! Preferably black, and leather. They go well with everything!

Tory Burch- $375.00

Juicy Couture- $ 380.00

School Shoes

Ickk. I know, I know! They’re ugly, but lets try to make them as pretty as possible.

Calvin Klein – $80.00

Calvin Klein- $80.00

Coach- $158.00

Jewelery

Ahh, how I love sparkly, shiny things. No one NEEDS diamonds, but why on earth should that mean we don’t buy them?

marc by marc jacobs cuff- $78.00

Various Coach rings- $68.00- 98.00

Various sparklies all BCBGMaxazria- around $25.00 each

I recently acquired a good deal of agate and other cool rocks and shells to make necklaces with. Look at this cool  agate jewelery! I can’t wait to get started. I want my pieces to look as if they’ve been hand crafted in nature, not some stuffy art store. For that reason I want the chain and bindings to be all leather. They should have an earthy feel. Great for pairing with jeans and a tee.

Clothing

BCBG -$40.00

BCBG- $110.00

J brand skinnies – $160.00

American Apparel- $58.00

I also really want a long sleeved striped black and white top. Any ideas? I’ve heard H&M and french connection are good.

“One lead pencil can write over 50 000 words”-book of mighty small

Frugal Fashionistas

So as the recession drones on, I feel it is appropriate to do a money saving segment. It came to my attention that most fashion magazines bring forth a whole lot of wishy washy nonsense, consisting of lots of “cheaps”, “inexpensives” and “wallet friendly” buys. The only problem is that they are most often cheaply made when their price tag is likewise. Not to mention ugly. hem hem, I mean unattractive.  So I’ve gathered up a few diamonds in the rough, that prove that a low price tag does not have to mean low quality. To start off, Marc Jacobs has his Marc by Marc Jacobs line which is cheaper than the couture line but just as modern and edgy. Just look at this amazing, quality, leather bag for only $348! And he’s done it again with his new capsule collection called Don’t Miss the Marc. Although some accuse him of compromising quality for a low manufacturing price, I beg to differ. Just because the pieces are wild, and young doesn’t make them cheap. It makes them unique! When has Marc ever gone the conservative route?!? Plus there are fabulously cheap “special items” only available instore. Bags for about $50!

Next up is the master of cheap and chic style, H&M. However, this time no quality is sacrificed to provide low price point products.  Case and point, is the Matthew Williamson collection where the price rage is $40- $200.

We all know Isaac Mizrahi for his namesake line and his work for various other houses. His latest collection for label Liz Claiborne is generating a fair amount of buzz. The classic silhouettes are updated with graphic patterns and bright pops of colour. What’s not to love?

Vintage! I know its been ’round the block a couple of times, but it’s still a budget friendly way to snap up awesome pieces.

Here are some excellent vintage shops throughout Canada

Toronto

I Miss You- From Yves St. Laurent to Hermes, this store has everything! Colour coded albeit for special theme areas (think fifties cocktail dresses). Although I’ve heard the staff are quite snippy. Located on Ossington Ave. A smidge pricey.

Preloved- Not your usual vintage store. They take vintage clothing, cut it up, sew it back together, and create custom, one of a kind pieces. No one will EVER have the same item. A little pricey for vintage, but it is art. Located on Queen Street.

69 Vintage- A ecclectic mix of prints, colours, and decades, this store is the ultimate in classic under $100 vintage shopping. Located on Queen St. West.

Vancouver

Mintage Vintage- This store provides a friendly atmosphere and brands including Ben Sherman, Cheap Monday, and BB Dakota. Located on Commercial Drive and W 4th Ave.

We all love GAP! Right now I’m craving the boyfriend blazer, and the bright purple tye dye cardi.

So we all adore Aritzia. But the scrumptious Wilfred boyfriend blazer being sold there is the cherry on top of the cake!

the Outnet.com is brought to us by the creators of netaporter.com. It’s like an online outlet store! Hundreds and hundreds of brands and pieces with prices slashed up to 70% off. And watch out for flash sales where the bidding on an item is open for one day, and prices decline throughout. How long will you risk waiting for that special piece? Quantities are limited.

Here are the websites for the merchandise discussed

http://www.theoutnet.com/?cm_mmc=GoogleUS-_-Outnet_Brand-_-Outnet_Brand-_-Outnet_Brand&bbcid=6462

http://www.aritzia.com/

http://www.marcjacobs.com/

http://www.hm.com/ca#/startns/

http://www.gap.com/

http://www.preloved.ca/

Have fun guilt-lessly saving pennies and scoring great buys!

“women have, like, orgasms while they shop“- Ashton Kutcher

~The Book~

I collect all my inspirations, photography, fashion, makeup references, and world travel souvenirs in one large binder. A couple times a month I sit down to a good movie (ahem, harry potter) and whip out the collage kit. Scissors, glue, a massive stack of vogues, bazaars, and foreign reads I pick up in my travels, and a glass of chocolate milk. I carefully sieve through all the articles and if I find something interesting I tear it out. I cut the items out neatly, and glue them onto a page of scrapbook paper, whole-punch them, and insert them into my book of wonders. I do this a couple times to each magazine to ensure nothing is missed. It relaxes me. This way, I can dispose of my old, cluttered, magazines without feeling like I’ve thrown something important away. Because everything important is added to the book. It’s become something of a shopping list/to-do list/aspirations list. I find myself owning a few more items in my book everytime I flip through it. It’s satisfying knowing I’m spending my money on something I have been gazing at for months, years even. I no longer make spur-of-the-moment purchases, only stratigically planned ones. The book also gives me something to look forward to: maybe one day when I have a good job I can seize the moment (and the money) and splurge on that $1300 burberry trench, or those $800 Chrisatian Louboutin pumps. I take it everywhere, planes, trains, and picnics; just incase anything pops into my head or I find something along my journey. It’s a great friend. It keeps you company during long flights; just grab an airport magazine and snip away. It keeps you company during long summer nights with nothing else to do; just grab a seat and some old photos. It keeps you company when you’re far away from home; it’s a familiar presence. It keeps you company and redirects you when you feel lost. My book is my best friend, because it’s who I am, and who I want to be.

Today, I look at my book and realize that a binder is probably not the most appropriate casing for everything that I love in life. But how to present it? It’s a hard question, because a wimpy duotang, or scrapbook could not contain the majesty that is the book. I suppose the only thing that might work would be an elaboratly decorated, fancy, sort of binder. But how to decorate? I really am at a lose. Help! There are a few examples below, but I need suggestions! (:

“Vogue has knitting books?”

SUMMER TO-DOS

So summer’s here(:

& I’ve devised a list of all the things I want to do in the 85 days left until school starts again! Enjoy

~~~~~~~~~~

1. run through sprinklers

2. have a blast for my sweet sixteen

3. go to wonderland twice

4. wildwaterworks(:

5. piano/limo/pool jams

6. go to the movies… for an entire day!

7. order every type of donut/timbit at tims and eat ALL of them

8. read all the hp books in one week

9. purple pony

10. actually talk to my parents

11. read “claudius, god”

12. NYC , nuff said

13. make a baileys ice cream sundae

14. bonfire to roast marshmallows over burning school books

15. tent party

16. beach at least twice:D

17. G1 & learn to drive

18. go crazy during a thunderstorm… outside

19. UP!

20. have a sad/scary movie marathon with the girls

21. cactus fest

22. mess around with makeup and have a photo shoot

23. run a lemonade stand

24. visit ikea

25. slip n’slide!

26. watergun fight

27. have lifechats on someone’s lawn

28. candycorn please

29. wonderland water park

30. make a peace sign with all the bestie’s hands

31. swing like I have never swung before

32. CNE!!

33. bike rides

34. blow up a gazillion balloons and release them with a message

35. watch all episodes of friends in a 24 hour marathon

36. have life chats with parentals

37.fireworks MANIA

38. tubing

39. walk a dog

40. bake up a storm, and eat it all with frans

41. laugh asses off at old yearbooks

42. drop an icecream cone/throw it at someone

43. see MGMT at wonderland

Just for your enjoyment I’ve included the summery-est pictures I could find!

& I will make a to do list page with this list, and cross items off as I go(:

H

“here’s to the nights where the sand is your seat,
the waves kiss your feet, your friends outnumber the stars,
and even the chilliest of nights, are still warmer

than the cold one in your hand.”

Sunny D-amage

Attractive? Tempting? Sexy?

You look hot when you have a tan; yes, that’s true. But in a recent study by UCLA, skin tint came in 15th in a ranking of features that the opposite sex notices first. Anyways, do you really want someone in your life who cares how dark your skin is? And who is willing to jeopardize your health to achieve an UN-healthy glow? Probably not; if you do please stop reading this and never return to my blog.

A tan is actually cells that are severely damaged. As we all know tanning causes cancer, but why do we avoid #2 plastic water bottles like the plague, but lapse up a known cancer-trigger? “Because skin cancer isn’t even in the back of teen’s mind’s” says Kaity, 17.

Here are the harsh facts if you are a tan-o-holic:

• you will probably get skin cancer (ahemm,  teens that visit tanning beds increase their skin cancer risk by 75%)
• if you dodge the cancer bullet, you will end up looking like a slightly worn, Hermes crocodile handbag by the time you are 50. Gross
• if you avoid consequences one and two, you will have wasted approximately 30 hours of your year, e.g. 2400 hours of your life mindlessly striving for “a look” that disappears the moment winter comes round. Good on you. You are officially the stupidest tool on the planet. Congrats

Amazingly Attractive? Super Sexy? Tantalizingly Tempting?

NO. Creepy Lizard Lady. That’s YOU in 30 years. Yes, that was barf that forced its way up your throat just now.

P.S

You are more likely to die from overexposure to the sun’s UVA and UVB rays than  paint fumes, lead poisoning, drowning, and drug o.d-ing put together .

Here are some great fair role models.

A little thin, but cancer and hamburg free!

A little creepy, but wrinkle free creepy.

A little… perfect? Yep, though so.

“I can’t take a well-tanned person seriously”-  Cleveland Amory

P.P.S

Check out updated Photography!

Polyvore

This website is so fun! You can create your own looks and share them with the Polyvore community. There is even a section where you can buy any of the looks! Check out my sets:)

http://www.polyvore.com/be_an_original/set?id=8737059

Have fun messing about!

“Fashion is a tyrant from which there is no deliverance; all must conform to its whimsical”- Proverb

I ♥ Makeup!

I was lurking around on the Sephora website, trying to find some products to splurge all my hard earned money on, when….. I found the jesus of all makeup. MAKEUPFOREVER. It’s amazing; a brand used by professionals and amateurs alike. They have so many cool products to use, and they aren’t just uni-purpose. You can do so much with them. Warning: do not use if you have no makeup experience. It will end in disaster.

So here are the products I am coveting:

Flash colour palette $95.00

Colour pigments $19.00 (can be blended to make gloss, lip paint, body paint, eyeshadow etc…)

Lip pencil $17.00

Body Paint $17.00

Fair 1 concealer palette $36.00

Glitter $17.00

Now I just have to chose between all these amazing products:|

Fall 2009 Shows

It’s that time again. That moment when your just getting excited about summer, and all the fabulous sun-suitable clothes that need to be purchased; when you realize that FALL collections are out. I know, I know, all the focus is on boots, coats, and fanciful layers when all you really want are dresses, wispy little tees, and sandals. But no worries! This gives you time to consider the buys you will make this fall; after all, in these economically unstable times consideration is key!

BCBGMaxazria

Max Azria’s collection was rich, consistent and intrigueing; though nothing particularly special. I did however LOVE the bronze leggings. Incorperating a tincey, wincey, bit of eighties style into the clothes, without going full-out neon, ray-ban-ish, and hideous.

Lanvin

The Lanvin collection was timeless and sophistiated. A far reach from their spring collection. The suit were exceptionally well tailored, and easily wearable. The dresses could carry you from office to a night out without even having to add jewels or makeup. There is nothing more to say; other than c’est fantastic!

Gucci

Gucci was also amazing. And also brilliantly tailored! I love it. The black leggings are wearable and classic while the satin extras offer a certain diversity. Loving the cut of the one shoulder pieces.

Marc Jacobs

Odd? Yes. Eighties? Just a bit. Ugly? Somehow not.

The bright colours strained eyes, the mammoth shoulders tested models balence, and the 2 toned ensambles still didn’t shock. Because it’s Marc Jacobs. This is what we expect, and love. Personal fav? The gray sweater dress with crazy leggings.

Michael Kors

Chic, matrix-like clean lines, and ONCE AGAIN fabulous tailoring. Am I sensing a trend? Whoops, no. Just a classic.

Sorry to offend those of you who are devoted to old world glamour and cuts. My apologies; looks like your instyle now!

Dries Van Noten

Retro chic at its best! Odd colour combos, and cheeky glasses combined with classic pieces equals one fab show!

Not to mention the endless variety of prints and textures. The animal-skin trench? So unique.

Bottega Veneta

Gorgeous! Neutrals can create stand-out pieces!

Blumarine

Love the tight silhouettes in comparison to the loose coats. Not so much the designers Andy Warhol of HERSELF. Ego much?

Versace

Cheeseball? Yes. Trashy? Yes. Unsophisticated? Not altogether.

The first two are hot for nights out, but the last one? It’s not really necessary. Unless you want to look like a slimy turquoise mermaid. Sorry, Donatella.

Randoms

The looks that I loved from the collections I hated. Sorry designers; you only managed to present one decent look out of about 40. Cheers!

Looks above by Zac Posen, Pucci, DKNY, and Derek Lam

“a good model can advance fashion by 10 years”

-Yves St. Laurent

The Perfect Sandal

I found them! The perfect sandal: classy, simple, timeless, convienient, and comfortable; all while looking fabulous! And they’re pretty cheap too… only about $100. And the zipper on the back is so entertaining. Zip up, zip down, zip up, zip down, etc… hours of fun.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Sandal- $90 (Cad.)

Updated Jams

Added some more songs to Jams; check it out:)

“My music will go on forever. Maybe it’s a fool say that, but when me know facts me can say facts. My music will go on forever”- Bob Marley

Spring Cleaning

As I’m writing this, I’m glancing around my room is disgust. You see, it’s an awful mess. Now I will proide you with stylish and glam ways to dress up your room, closet/walk-in, and bathroom. Although it may take me awhile to get started on the daunting task of throwing out last season’s crap, and displaying new purchases; I have full confidence that you are a little less stubborn than I am. With no further ado…

Room

• Use a statue head and pretty hooks to display jewelry. Another cool idea is to use a tiered desserts tray to show-off your jems.
• Photos! A room without photos is like milk without chocolate; ugly and pointless.
• Create a board where you pin or attach all your travel photos, inspiring images, photo booth pics, and anything that catches your interest.
• Wall stickers are a girls best friend. You can purchase ones with quotes, or designs. Stick, rub, peel, and voila! Instant chic.
• Lastly pick a theme for the room. Not an over the top surfer or pink theme. Something timeless; say, perhaps Paris, London, New York, Sea, floral, Victorian, earthy, etc…

Closet/Walk-in

• Get a chair. Please. It makes everything look pulled together and elegant. It also allows you to lay clothes out the night before, and sit while considering options.
• A full length mirror is a must. How are you supposed to assess an outfits potential while teetering on top of a chair  trying to glimpse how your shoes look in the mirror four feet off the ground.
• Open shelving is cheap, and an ideal way to survey your inventory. No stupid chests of drawers. Those are only good for your sweet nothings, socks, and possibly those hideous Crocs you refuse to trash.
• Hang pictures of people and designs that inspire you. This will help set the mood for the rest of the day and provide inspiration.
• Get a clear glass cylinder container and roll belts in on top of one another. Do the same with colourful opaque tights, scarves, or anything else you want to keep organized but can’t bare to hide away.
• Have separate shelves for sunglasses, wallets, bags, and shoes.
• Use funky bookends to prop up small bags and clutches.
• Get a delicate little table to put magazines, and tea on. Or you could glue together those shoe boxes that are stored away in your closet to create a storage table. (only the nice ones please, no Croc boxes please)
• Lastly, keep a small box to put extra buttons and thread in that are always attached to new clothes. You know what I’m talking about; the ones that are still attached to your shirt when you go to a party?

Bathroom

• Get containers for EVERYTHING. Brushes in one, face products in  another etc… It makes cleaning the counter a whole lot easier.
• Display photos of loved ones on the counter, it instantly makes a bathroom look classy.
• Tack pictures up of hairstyles/makeup looks you want to try.
• Put your colourful shampoos and lotions into clear pump or glass bottles. It makes your shower look less like a drugstore and more like a boutique or apothicary.
• Get a funky shower curtain to liven things up.
• Lastly, keep it CLEAN. Even the most fabulous bathroom will look attrocious if its covered in crap.

Woman- “When I’m cranky, I clean”

Man- “Your house must be spotless!”

- Anon.

Sandals Anyone?

So its been awhile since I actually discussed shoes; here goes. I need a nice sandal. Not too intense gladiator-y ones, and not back-supporting grandma- wearing ones. These are my options so far:

1. Ok, so these Christian Louboutins aren’t really an option; but they’re just too beautiful to spend their life in file storage on my hardrive.

2. These Coach glads are gorgeous! But do I really need another glad style sandal? Hmmm…

3. The Coach SIERRA SANDAL is practical yet elegant. But maybe a little childish?

4. Michael Kors does it again! These glad style sandals are classy and beautiful all in one.

1. These Michael Kors are a little edgier, but just as ravishing!

2. Elie Tahari creates these elegant suede steppers.

3. Cole Hann metallics in all their glory.

4. L.A.M.B sandals by Gwen Steffani

So help me decide! Which ones? & of course if I got them, they would all be in black; so they go with everything, of course!

“In such a pretty street, I want to have my prettiest shoes”- Christian Louboutin