Spreading The Holiday Spirit

The holiday season is in full fledged effect. I find, bit by bit, the meaning of the season gets lost  amongst the hustle and bustle. Look at your shopping mall for example, it's crazy. So many people crammed in lines, crowding over each other, trying to purchase that perfect gift for that someone special. This to me, defeats the purpose of this magical season. When did Christmas turn into a cash cow?

Here's an idea, why not squash the wallet gaping gift giving tradition this year and try something new with your girlfriends. My proposition to you, is to host a holiday evening. I'm talking, a good old fashioned girls' night. Who wouldn't want to participate? 

You can set the dress code as casual or as dressy as you want. Personally, I like a slipper sock kind of girls' night (and you can each pick up a pair for $1 at your local dollar store). Nothing says fun, more than a pair of rainbow striped fuzzies. Bake some cookies. Make your own pizza. Drink some (and by some, I mean a bottle or two) wine. Paint your nails. And watch a typical flick. 

This way you get to enjoy each other's company and make a few memories to last into the new year.

What do you do with your budgeted holiday fund? Here's an idea, donate to your preferred charity or not for profit organization.  I don't mean to sway your vote, but the SPCA has a lot of adorable animals who need your love and help this season. 

Public donations to the Provincial Animal Shelter help offset the costs of animal care, which the shelter does not receive any government funding for. The below are the top 10 items the shelter needs:

Top Ten Most Needed Items:

1. Kitty Litter (non clumping or Yesterday's news)
2. Bleach
3. Canadian Tire Money or points
4. Plain White Copier paper (letter size)
5. Large black or clear garbage bags
6. Latex gloves (size medium)
7. Paper towels
8. Doggie poop bags
9. Dog training 'clickers'
10. Cat toys (mouse or ball type without catnip)

You can drop off your items at:

5 Scarfe Crt

Dartmouth, NS

(902) 468-7877

Happy holidays :)

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