Interview Intervention

Have you ever Googled "interview outfits?" I did - yes it's embarrassing to admit but you can't blame a girl for being curious. It was probably one of the most unproductive searches I have performed.

Everything was so blah and neutral. There was no creativity or individuality. And isn't the point of an interview to set you apart from the pack? To show your personality.

Now, I know what you're thinking - what about professionalism? Who says style can't be professional? I'm not saying to go in wearing the latest cut-off trend as this can be a fine line to balance on.  However, if you really put your thinking cap on, you can pull it off. 

Tibi Silk Faille Full Skirt / Tibi for net-a-porter exclusive Penguin-intarsia Knitted Sweater / 

Celine Luggage Tote / Jimmy Choo Alicia Pump / Dannijo Coco Ring

I have been pining after this Tibi skirt ever since I saw Teen Vogue senior market fashion editor, Mary Kate Steinmiller, sporting it a whiles back. It's for sure on my wish list for Santa this year - hint hint mom, hint hint. 

This outfit may come across as slightly unorthodox for interview attire however, it is pretty much adhering to the traditional dress code. Because interviews can be a slightly uncomfortable and intimidating process the last thing you want to be is self conscious in your outfit. So take a risk and test the waters. You'll most likely be praised for your individuality and come across much more confident. 

Gimme That Look

Last week, I feel in love with a look from Aimee Song of Song Of Style. 

Oh yes, now you can see why I loves this look so much. It's by designer Karen Millen and can be purchased at asos.com for $375.80 (+ shipping/taxes/duties). This is a perfect example of how an incredible stylist can transform a piece to make it her own. Loving the dramatic footwear choice - A+. 

I wanted to get this look, but without spending the contemporary price tag for an item that doesn't have a very high cost per wear. I've mentioned this term before, it means getting the most bang for your buck. For example, if you were to purchase the beautiful Karen Millen creation and only wear it once, you're paying $375/wear. But if you're going to wear it four times this holiday season you're paying $93/wear. This is a concept you should use when purchasing luxury goods. While this piece is absolutely beautiful, it's a statement dress that is easily recognizable each time you wear it.

So what I'm saying, is  invest in pieces that you can get multiple uses out of and spend less on novelty items.

Now onto the hunt! Seeing how the baroque trend is so on fire right now, it wasn't that hard to find an alternate.

Forever21 skirt $16 / Forever21 belt $8 / Steve Madden Intrude pumps $69 / 

Rebecca Minkoff Fling clutch $325 / Tibi Refined Tank $198

What do you think? A pretty good alternative if I do say so myself! 

I own the Rebecca Minkoff Fling ... and believe me, this baby has been with me through thick and thin. 100% worth the price tag. The Steve Madden pumps were an amazing deal - sorry kids, but you miss the boat as they were on sale for $49 last week on the brand's official website. As for the skirt - well you really can't beat finding an item that's under 20 bucks! 

xoxo

Consumer Education

I’m going to let you in on a few tips and secrets on how to go about shopping in the safest way possible.

First off, it is your job as the consumer to educate yourself on your purchases and stores’ policies. Make sure you’re well equipped with the store’s return/exchange policy prior to checking out. It is the store’s duty to post their policy at the point of sale; however, it is your job as the consumer to ask before you purchase. If you’re unaware that a store does not return or exchange that it not the retailer’s fault.

Saying this, the holiday season is right around the corner and that means it’s time to start thinking about gift giving. So before you checkout, simply ask if you don’t know.

Secondly, know the product you’re buying. Read the label, research and utilize the world wide web – that’s what it’s there for people. It never hurt to compare pricing. You may realize there are shops out there that charge a hefty penny for some items that aren’t worth the price tag. I’m an extreme impulse buyer, so take my advice, shop around before you commit. It could save you a few Benjamin’s.

However, this leads me to my last point, know your facts when buying online.  There normally is a reason for a slight price difference online versus in store.

There are hidden costs you can get hit with at the door. When any commercial goods cross the border it has to go through customs. Who then decide on the duty charges – this depends on whether it was imported into the USA before coming to Canada and where the materials originated. This can cost you anywhere from 13% and higher. Most times you don’t know until the deliveryman comes to your door. Trust me, I ordered a pair of boots for $200 and was handed a bill for $80 from the UPS deliveryman before I could get my boots – such a buzz kill.

Happy shopping :)

Girl's Night Out

I've been M.I.A due to the crazy month that is September and trickles into October. I will put up some of my pictures from market week after this post.

A few girlfriends and I went out for dinner on Friday night. Had a great time at The Bicycle Thief ... highly recommend! Amazing food and atmosphere.

Normally, I like to get all dolled up for a night out, but I had a slight change of heart Friday night because it was rainy and windy out - and hosiery just were not appealing at all. I really wanted to incorporate one of my fav new purchases - a green jersey from Artizia that was mocked after the Isabel Marant jersey top from the Spring/Summer 2012 collection.

Note : I think it is wonderful that you can purchase designer look-a-likes for less at stores such as H&M, Joe Fresh and Zara because not all of us have the budget for designer goods. However, it is important to give credit to where they originated from to truly appreciate the creativity that went into the design.

Isabel Marant top / Hudson Nico jeans / Steve Madden pump / 

Smythe Sharp Shoulder blazer / Rebecca Minkoff Racy clutch

So I paired my top with my fav fitting skinny at the time - the Hudson Nico in chelsea wash. It has a great mid rise, a flattering cut and enough stretch to be comfy yet not flimsy. Instead of loading on the jewels, I kept things simple with an accent shoe - this Steve Madden leopard print pump did the trick. Next, I threw on a neutral blazer and grabbed my studded clutch. Voila, ready to go!

I wanted to post about this because I felt it was a nice alternative to an after 5 look.