Chilly White

Brrrrrrrrrrrr

Is it just me or do we all get so excited for the first snowfall?

Correct me if I am wrong, but experiencing the first fall confirms that Christmas is just around the corner.

I'm surely not the biggest fan of Winter, but hey...who wants a green Christmas?

I think of the first fall as a checklist confirmation.

You must be asking yourself....For what?

Your winter must-have accessories!

1-WARM BOOTS

Everyone must agree on the fact that we have heavy winters here in Montreal. May I remind you that we witnessed -25, -30,...

This is why it is a necessity to own and to invest in a warm pair of boots. 

Last year, I was fed up of throwing hundreds of dollars in "trendy" boots and spend my days freezing at the tip of my toes.

I told myself : "Invest some more and you will get a real result!"

& so I did...I purchased my first pair of Burberry Winter Boots!

May I say... THE SMARTEST MOVE EVER!

2- STATEMENT GLOVES

Now this is a different story.

Everyone is different when it comes to gloves.

Some freeze, some don't.

I personally don't like wearing mittens. I am constantly doing something; either shuffling my next song on my iPod, replying to a text message or reading Vogue on the bus...

Therefore, I decided to become a "leather owner". 

My leather Ralph Lauren's just sealed the deal! 

Practical & fashionable

In my opinion, it's always nice to have a winter statement accessory since we can't really show off our outfits underneath thick coats and heavy boots.

3- A SCARF YOU MUST NEVER LET GO OF

Fashion put aside, we love warmth and comfort.

I strongly recommend that everyone owns a thick infinity scarf!

I call it the " Handy Infinity".

Think about it...

You can wear it as your coat's companion & part of your outfit.

Infinity scarves can easily blend with pretty much everything this time of the year.

Splurge into one if you don't already own one.

I'll help...

Basketwave collar scarf

Pieces Vigga Snood

Block Colour Snood

The Metallic shaker stitch

Remember, think outside the box & you'll find the one that fits just for you!

Aside from playing dress-up during winter, remember to spend time with your family and friends and dedicate some fun time in decorating your home and fill up those Christmas socks with small goodies!

Oh, calories put aside, another purchase on your shopping list: marshmallows & cocoa!

Enjoy

-xo

JKal -xo

A New Glow

Every girl's fear: the A word.

Let's not mention the full word in this entire article except this once: Acne.!

Regardless of the fact that this is a Fashion blog, I will write an article on something that possibly changed my "visage" FOR(hoping)EVER!

Food restrictions, scrubs, masks...where & when does it all end?

My goal is to NOT sound like a beauty commercial but to explain why these following products should truly be part of every girl's beauty basket in her powder room!

CLARISONIC

You must be telling yourself: "another so-called cure..", right?

I have been using certain products for a few years now that I do not wish to mention their name in case any of you are using it and is actually helping you. 

Remember, all of our faces react a certain way to creams. It can be good as it can also be bad.

This all depending what kind of skin we have. 

P.s: always make sure to consult a cosmetician before purchasing your new product.

So, where was I? Yes, the part where I completely gave up on my products and dietary regime.

Every woman knows her system. For instance, I know that my skin reacts very poorly to certain makeup brands and foods.

Up until a few weeks ago, I would always have red spots here & there...some uncomfortable pimples that would appear after I would over indulge in a cheese platter or some delicious white chocolate. 

That was until I started noticing it was getting worse. Way worse.

Those so called tiny red spots were taking over my cheeks but in a very painful way. 

Of course, like any other woman, I started panicking.

I refused to visit the dermatologist just yet. Fine, I hate meds.

So I stuck to the natural cures.

I.E: honey masks, hot steamed water, cucumbers, etc.

911 ! IT WASN'T HELPING.

It was then when I finally decided to visit Sephora.

I kept hearing about this Clarisonic machine but never really knew its purpose.

I spoke to a cosmetician in the facial product's department and she automatically suggested this magical product.

Magical and SIMPLE.

A cleansing brush!

All I need to do is apply my gel cleanser as I always do when I wash my face and then run the Clarisonic over it once I apply it all over my face.

The basic Clarisonic runs on one speed for a minute. 

You should usually apply it for 6-10 seconds on both cheeks and 15 seconds on your forehead and chin.

It will dig deeper than your regular wash and will eliminate all spots after a couple of weeks. You need to give it a chance of course. You may not see the result at first. The first week I started using it, my skin was getting extremely red. That's just because it digs inside and cleanses your layers of skin so all unnecessary "residue" can come out. That is the point...right?

Wait and see :)

This fabulous product is sold at Sephora and comes in various different colours!

I can truly say that it has been helping me so far, considering what I've gone through. I am not a big "commercial" believer which is why I felt the need to blog about a product I can finally say is worth buying.

But that's not all...

I figured, I want to save my skin, right?

I need the right creams as well...

So I was being annoying, yet again and asked for assistance.

This time for the..."after-cure".

As mentioned previously, I was so stubborn throughout these past few years & refused to search elsewhere for facial products.

I kept thinking it was my own bad habits that led me to my "poor skin".

WRONG.

Remember, not all products are suitable for everyone.

So what was my problem!?

I have skin that is neither oily or dry.

Therefore, gives me the result of a Combination.

And so I heard... Kate Somerville.

I think of it as a FOUR step procedure for ONE result.

1- CLEANSER

( I use this gel cleanser with my Clarisonic!!)

Daily detox cleanser that is essential in your daily life.

Use twice a day (AM&PM).

Apply a small amount to a wet face and neck.

Massage gently for 30 seconds.

Rinse in warm water.

2- SCRUB

A unique exfoliator with a bit of lavender base.

Targets blemishes and prevents breakouts. 

Use 1-2 times a week.

Apply a think & even layer to a clean, wet face and massage it for 30 seconds before rinsing it after a minute.

Rinse with warm water.

3-EDADIKATE ACNE TREATMENT

A concealer that helps clear up pimples & reduces redness.

Use once daily, as soon as blemishes are noticed.

Dip clean cotton swab into bottle and softly dab on the spot.

Do not shake your bottle.

Cleanse your skin afterwards and gently pat dry.

4-MOISTURIZER

Oil free moisturizer

Use twice a day. Apply a think & even layer on the face & neck.

I personally do believe that every woman (and man too, btw) should take care of their skin by nourishing it with proper products and homemade nutriments as well.

Remember ladies, it is important to stick to your product once you know it is the one suited for you. 

Constantly changing facial scrubs, creams, moisturizers, etc can seriously damage your skin.

Glance at the following websites where you can find all of the products above.

http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?_requestid=160441#!keyword=clarisonic

http://www.katesomerville.com

Never let your skin down.

You can change your clothes and accessorize your outfits, but your face remains with you!

JKal -xo

A gift outside the box

As mentioned in my previous article, the Holidays are just around the corner!! 

Not only does this translate into spending extra precious time with your loved-ones but also means that you will soon be HUNTING for the perfect gift.

Here's a little secret of mine that I will share...

I often get more excited of wrapping a gift than the actual gift itself.

This all depends, of course, to whom you are giving it to.

I personally believe that the creativity & effort put behind a gift and its wrapping is much more meaningful than the idea of receiving "just another" one of those Christmas gifts.

Giving up on ideas?

Not so fast! Read a little and then judge your situation...

SO...

Before I start, let's just make sure we're on the same page.

These are just basic ideas. Always remember what I say..."think outside your bubble and allow yourself to add your own touch."

THE PARENTS.

oh yes, the hardest ones. 

How often do you hear " You shouldn't have!"- "Why?"-"I don't need anything!"

Okay, well let's try and change that to "You are so thoughtful!", shall we?

Parents are a pair, right? That's why I love to offer one big gift that represents them both. 

Scratch the perfumes and clothes. Create a story line.

For example, use the kitchen. Before doing so, X the Christmas gift bag! You have a mind of your own: use it in every creative way possible.

So I'm thinking of a basket... medium size.

Why not fill it with useful goodies? 

Don't forget, you must have both male & female touch.

Tea jars with organic teas, kitchen accessories, wine bottle, recipe book, classy kitchen cloths, spices, & maybe...Lady Godiva?

THE SIBLINGS

This all depends on the age difference you have with them.

If you're the older one and your little sister or brother are still very young, well...we unfortunately need to stay on the basic & easy level: Spoil them with Toys. 

On the other hand, if you're close enough with them, what better than an activity to bring you even closer? 

Mani & Pedi with a sister or even a ski trip with the brother?

PS: a gift isn't always meant to fit in a gift bag...

BEST FRIEND

You either have it or you don't.

Come on! She's your best friend! There is no better target for the creative challenge. 

I am sure she spilled some tips over your last 101 conversations. A girl will always talk about what she wants, what she needs & what she dreams of.

Now is the time to show her that you paid attention to every single word that she said.

Mix Purchase & Homemade together : make your own personal card, hunt for those scented creams that only you can guess her top favourites & add some jewels with that cheesy tacky movie she refused to buy on her own.

In conclusion, combine all in a decorative box she can use for storage in her room for the future.

THE BOYFRIEND

ah- the tricky one.

It's a mixture between getting him what you want him to have vs what he wants.

It's easy. You go with both.

Shopping for the bf should be the funnest one of all. 

This is the one gift that has no rules and no limits.

This one will completely be up to you.

After all, you should be the only one coming up with THE perfect idea.

In the end, it's just a matter of showing that we care.

You know how we all say that it's the thought that counts?

Don't forget, it's not just about the thought of purchasing something, it's the thought process behind the idea.

Knowing I will put a smile on someone's face by showing them how much I know them just makes my Holiday season that much better and warmer!

Happy Creative Hunt

-xo. 

JKal -xo

The acceptance of White in Winter

Ever heard of the "No white pants" Rule during the winter time?

We ought to stick to that, but we need to greet this colour elsewhere during the season: THE HOLIDAYS! I'm sure you can't miss it when you see the first snow fall of the year or when you decorate the house with Christmas ornaments.

You know what they say..."It's the most wonderful time of the year"...

I will admit something though: I'm a Fall gal'. But there's just something about Winter... Everything suddenly seems so comfortable, cheerful & peaceful during the Holidays. Let's take the storms and traffic in the malls out of the equation.

I did mention comfort. But let's not forget that we obviously must attend cocktail events and Holiday parties in those sparkly dresses.

I especially love those thick knits you wear around the house or at coffee shops while you sip on the seasonal latte.

Tip: Everyone should own a warm knitted sweater & scarf.

I am sure that most of you hate dealing with the " Heavy Winter Look". Trust me, we can't always be dolled up. It's a task for us Montrealers that live here ( & for others that also have snow in their cities) to style up a look with barely any inspiration, thanks to the weather we get. 

Ever deal with...

" Urgh, I want to wear my new shirt...IT'S TOO COLD!!"

"My winter boots don't match the outfit."

"It's so BORING!"

I can go on, but I believe you get the drill.

Trust me, you're not the only one. 

We obviously can't have an endless wardrobe that can help our 911 situation on a daily basis, but here are some tips I will suggest..

Color

I always love to have one colourful item that takes part of my outfit. It brings life to the outfit without having to necessarily put big effort in the actual piece.

Ideas? : Oxblood- Burnt Orange- Primrose Yellow- Cerulean-Deep Teal- Royal Blue- Eggplant (Top FW' colours)

Accessory

Attending a dinner? Date?

I love adding a statement necklace to the look. It can be a delicate pendant as it can be a textured chocker. Take a chance & step out of your bubble.

2 for 1?

Style & Warmth?

What better than a knitted infinity scarf. Or any scarf of that matter. 

Leather goods?

Try leather gloves! Hey, there are more than just those black ones that half the society wears.

Add a....

Belt to your coat

Vest to your shirt

Coloured tights to your skirt

Add a companion...

A clutch will always help you seal the deal. 

Don't always carry your weekday tote with you.

***

Every blogger, any stylists and every editorial mag can be writing their own version &/or theory on style.

I just want to emphasize my theory on style, especially (as mentioned above) in seasons that are a little harder to dress for.

Correct me if I am wrong, but I keep hearing everyone complaining about street style becoming so... "clone-ish"?!

It's easy. Just like everything else in life, it is not a matter of complaining about something, it is about turning that complaint into action. 

Fashion shouldn't be any different than anything else.

If you truly do believe or love something, you shouldn't have anyone's approval to follow it in any way you want.

Make your Holiday atmosphere become the perfect example for your winter style...

If we can go all out on our Christmas decorations, then why can't we also apply that "free spirit" to our wardrobe?

HAPPY upcoming HOLIDAYS

-xo.

JKal -xo

The Green Closet

Ever heard people chant around " It's the most wonderful time of the year?"

During the Holiday season, of course...

All traditions put aside, I am sure, dear readers, that some of you might think of your closet cleaning session as the most wonderful PART of the season.

Come on, let's face it : Clothes in the Trash translate to new ones on the hanger. 

Throwing & Buying...

Ever thought of recycling?

Hear me out.

You find an odd pair of heels and tell yourself, "Ew, I wore you too many times."

Solution: Dye'em, clean them up. Bedazzle them?

Oh, that boring old sweater...

Ever thought of embellishing it with a cloche hat & a knitted scarf?

That blazer. That one blazer you believe you wore over one thousand times. It's constantly there. 

How about changing the buttons? Changing the lining?

You may think of a coat as a challenging piece to give a makeover to.

Be creative. Don't challenge the piece, challenge your mind.

What is Vintage...Really?

Fine, the whole "old" thing, gone through a few generations...

But really...the way I see it? 

A piece that has lived more than one life. By life I mean look.

Remember, trendy readers, you decide.

After all, mother nature wants us to recycle, right?

-xo. 

JKal -xo

The Historical 2.55

I think of my 21st year as a fashionable statement year. The year I purchased my very own 2.55. The famous bag. 

But this started way before 2012...

In the 20's, Chanel had a character of her own. She decided to free herself from typical clutches and decided to start carrying a handbag. 

This thought eventually became the successful 2.55

What inspired her?

She wanted women to attend social functions with "fashionable ease". 

And here it is... The first statement. 

The double chain shoulder strap. Those chains (same ones as we see today) were attached by leather-threaded chain inserted through metal 

eyelets. 

What do we have next?

Something must have inspired her to lead her to such style. The convent she grew up in as an orphan. The nuns use to hold their keys at their waist dangling from the same type of chains as the 2.55 shoulder strap chains.

The thin straps were inspired by the straps found on soldiers' bags.

The backside pocket for money she used to store, without anyone knowing.

Linings represent the colours of the uniforms at the convent.

Ever noticed, dear Chanel owners, the zippered compartment at the inside of the front flap? Oh we all know that it wasn't just for the sake of decorative purposes. That is where Coco stored her love letters.

A woman that successful had to have an easy access to monetary storage. That's where the back outside flap came in handy.

Oh, I know. You must be wondering, CC's? The famous logo we see on the quilted bags?

The bag originally came with a front lock called " the Mademoiselle Lock" (reference to Coco Chanel not being married)

Then the 80's came along & versions with locks in the shape of a double CC logo, what we know as today, the Classic Flaps.

& last but not least, the entire quilted voluminous look of the 2.55 : diamond/herringbone pattern on the exterior. She got inspired with that one. From pillows that were decorating her couch to riding coats.

You see, dear readers....

This isn't just a "bag". Well, to me at least.

I am a firm believer in owing respect to those who changed the world in any way possible.

I simply decided to cherish the gifted ones in the Fashion world.

Don't blame me. After all, I am who I am (most part of me)today because of the example I take on those "people" I choose to talk about. 

In the end, you just need to remember one simple thing: you choose who & what you want to be...

& your inspirations will & should be endless...

-xo. 

JKal -xo

Dig in your treasure box

There's something about the weekend that makes you want to dig so deep in your closet and find the oddest looking accessories &  pair them with those heels you've impatiently been waiting to wear.

I believe that we restrain ourselves from really getting out of our "clothing bubble" on weekdays. Maybe we should blame our working environment for that or better yet....OURSELVES.

I agree. Weekends are fun. All you want to do is play dress up & shop until the doors close on you. 

But come on, don't put your closet on a five day hold. 

After all, we live every day. We should therefore wear everyday.

-xo. 

JKal -xo

" I"ll have a weekend to go. Make that a double wear, please"

* * *

I will admit that it's getting chilly out there. But come on, don't let the weather stop you from pairing your favourite accessories with that new knit you've impatiently been waiting to wear on the weekend.

My theory is that a piece doesn't become a new member to your family closet unless it's been worn in the weekend. 

When you think about it, life dolls itself up during those two days.

Happy Weekend to all

Enjoy & Wear

-xo. 

The Next Step

It's a question of comfort. We all have some sort of comfort zone when it comes to clothing. 

I tend to think of mine as different. Ah yes, that word(btw)will appear many times throughout this blog. It is one of my key words for style.

Let's go back to what I was typing about... This whole "comfort zone". So... what is it exactly? You keep wearing the same thing thinking you can never find anything else similar to that, right? Or... is it maybe the fact that "nothing else exists for you?"

I highly doubt that.

We all have that fav. piece of ours. That one piece that will never be able to throw out and wear endlessly. 

It's ok. You like it. But do you really need to wear it the same way constantly? You're probably fed up as well but keep repeating it...

Ladies, let go of the fear of needing to shop for a new shirt or a new pair of denims. 

I have some of my fav' pieces that I can't let go of either.

This is where my favourite word comes in handy: ACCESSORIZE !

Tips: 

Shirts & Sweaters are worn more than once. 

How?

Simple. Here are my key words:

- scarves

- necklaces

- gloves

-Waist belts

Denims & Trouser :

- Stop hiding your heels & pair 'em up

- A colourful pair of flats will seal the deal

-Believe it or not, a purse makes the whole difference 

(PS: matching your shoes with your purse? Cross that idea out)

I'm not a big fan of associating pictures with words. 

It's simple. We all need to challenge ourselves from time to time and picture things our own way. I may not be an expert, but I can only help you and shout out my personal ideas...

-xo. 

JKal -xo

Fashion Pilot

So this is it. As you know, the Love for Fashion. 

This is my page. 

All articles put aside...I will expose my favourites of the season & my inspirations under My Affair With Fashion.

Remember, there are two rules if you are planning to browse my blog

#1 - Go hunt Style. Your style.

Hint: stores won't always help you...

#2 There is no Rule #2. Never forget that we make our own rules.

-xo.

JKal -xo