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Lash Out!

Before taking any trip, there’s always a lot of prep I have to do. I get a little OCD when organizing my to-do lists, but number one on my list this time was to get eyelash extensions. And after asking around and hearing the horror stories of people’s lashes falling out, I took a leap.

I love makeup, but sometimes the whole glam routine can be a little too much to take on during travel. Especially when it calls for early mornings and whole day outings. Plus, when there’s one bathroom to 6 adults and one toddler, I can’t exactly take my time. And I don’t have the patience to apply falsies everyday, so I needed something that would cut my routine in half.

First mistake I made, I asked around. That was a terrible idea because people only had horror stories of what happened to the their friends. Or a friend of a friend. No one knew, first hand, what it was like to have eyelash extensions, so immediately I became skeptical.

Second mistake I made, I Googled. And of course what popped up were botched extensions and crusty lashes. This only heightened my skepticism.

But I did it anyways! Because when I make up my mind about something, I have to do it.

Best. Decision. Ever.

Before booking an appointment, I did some research and tried to take a crash course on the whole procedure and care of eyelash extensions. From mink to synthetic mink, to D curl, to 3D Russian lashes, I was so overwhelmed. So I decided to go based on photos, review and prices. After all, it was my first time and I had absolutely no expectations since everyone I asked only had negative comments.

I had my heart set on 3D Russian lashes as they looked most realistic, but seeing only a price tag of $295+ from reputable salons, I crossed that option. That’s more than I spend on my hair when I go to my hairdresser for the works – dye, cut, style & blow dry. And at least my hair lasts more than 2 weeks!

So I decided to go with a classic set. Which was the most inexpensive and totally affordable option at $85. I booked 2 days before my flight, in case of any problems, and was a super nervous because I had a dream that 2 rookies did my lashes and totally messed them up. The stylist reassured me to relax and the whole thing took just about an hour.

Before eyelash extensions (with mascara)

Before eyelash extensions (with mascara)

After eyelash extensions (no mascara)

After eyelash extensions (no mascara)

Experience? There was no discomfort during the process. Nothing hurt. Nothing burned. Only little awkward feelings here and there, since I’d never done them before. The stylist taped my bottom lashes down, which at first made my top lids flutter. I eventually calmed myself and there was no feeling of pulling on my natural lash and nothing felt glued to my skin.

Once it was done, my eyes were watery for a bit, but adjusted. It didn’t feel like I was wearing anything. No heavy feeling, like when you do falsies. My eyelashes felt normal. And after looking in the mirror, right away I could tell a huge difference. My lashes were longer and thicker. The more I looked at them, the more I loved them. And then I saw them on camera.

Before eyelash extensions (no mascara)

Before eyelash extensions (no mascara)

Week 1: After eyelash extensions (no mascara)

Week 1: After eyelash extensions (no mascara)

Verdict? I’m in love. I would absolutely do them again and would recommend to anyone thinking about it.

Unfortunately, it’s not a process I can keep up with monthly as you have to pay for refills every 2-3 weeks and it gets costly, but for sure it’s something I would do in the summer months or during travel. It makes a huge difference. And very simple care instructions – basically wash your face and brush your lashes. And you can blow dry them from underneath on the cool setting.

Beginning of week 2 they were looking nice. My lash line was still thick. A few fall out daily, but that’s a part of your eyelash’s natural life cycle.

Beginning of week 2 (wearing eyeshadow)

Beginning of week 2

Beginning of week 3, more had fallen out and there was more spacing between the lashes. My lash line wasn’t as thick so I wore eyeliner inside my upper waterline to even it out. The extensions still blended with my natural eyelashes though, so still no need for eyeliner or mascara. And halfway through the 3rd week, I returned from my trip and went back to work. I felt so bald, but people were still complimenting me on my eyelashes. So they held up.

Beginning of week 3

Beginning of week 3 (wearing eyeshadow)

Week 4, still holding on. I started wearing liquid eyeliner because basically 90% of them had fallen out and it wasn’t until the end of the 4th week that I pulled out the remaining.

Beginning of week 4 (wearing eyeshadow)

Every time a lash fell out I wanted to cry. It’s the saddest thing because it’s a total confidence boost. Literally no need for makeup. Just basic cover up/foundation and lipstick and you’re good for the day. You just have to keep cautious of rubbing your eyes if you have that habit. You definitely can’t sleep on your stomach and if you choose to wear makeup, it needs to be oil free, as well as the remover. For myself, I wore absolutely no mascara or eyeliner the whole time because there was no need for it. The only thing I wore on occasion was eyeshadow.

Now I’m back to mascara, which is cool, but I really miss the extensions! *sigh*

Have you gotten your eyelashes done? Let me know your experiences!

xo

Stephanie

Note: All opinions are my own. I went to Pretty Girl Lounge and had a great experience. The stylist was super nice and talked me through the whole process. I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all and will definitely book with her again!

June 18, 2017
Queen Margherita Pizza

I love me some pizza.

Not as much as I do gelato, but I love pizza. And unfortunately, my tastebuds have been a little spoiled because coming from an Italian background, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Italy and eating all the pizza my belly can handle.

So, every now and then, I get a craving for authenticity that needs attending to. Especially since I recently returned from a trip to Italy. Sadly, I’m not yet rich enough to fly across the world at the drop of a dime, every time I please. So I have been on the hunt to find a delicious stone oven pizza place here in the GTA. And luckily, earlier this year I came across this gem, Queen Margherita Pizza.

Queen Margherita Pizza in Leslieville

All you need is pizza! ❤

Initially, I wanted to find a place that is comparable to the ones in Italy. I was looking for something authentic and true to taste. However, after being disappointed numerous times, I knew I was going about it all wrong.
I learned not to compare the taste of pizza here to the pizza in Italy. Unless every single ingredient is imported, it’s never going to taste the same. And I’ve accepted that. Even pizza in Italy tastes different every region you go, from north to south. So it was a totally unreasonable goal.

I then decided to simplify.
Find a place that makes good tasting stone oven pizza.
Basic. And as I do with many new Instagram discoveries, I mention it to bae until he finally caves and takes me.

With Queen Margherita having three locations, we went to the one closest to the east, on Queen Street in Leslieville. We dined on a weekday afternoon to avoid crowds and, upon first sight, it looked like a pub. As you first step in, it’s a little small as there is only a bar, a staircase and a few tables. I was surprised, but didn’t want to jump to any conclusions or go in closed minded because I was there to eat pizza. So if I can grab a slice of 99cents pizza on a busy street corner in Manhattan with no tables, I can eat in the little corners of this restaurant.

Queen Margherita Pizza interior

Queen Margherita Pizza interior

After being greeted, we were then lead upstairs to our table and I was impressed when I saw a cool, loft style, open concept restaurant. It was complete with wooden benches, chairs & tables, a white painted brick wall and unfinished flooring. The factory style windows allowed for all the natural lighting to come in, which I love. Most importantly though, the food was delicious.

*Appetizers: (L) Eggplant, (R) Grilled Kale Salad

*Pizza: (L) Gio Oldschool, (R) Cinque Stagione

The portions were good and they have some interesting options for toppings, including kale and sunflower seeds. We got 2 appetizers and 2 pizzas between the both of us. The apps we devoured. We got a grilled kale salad which was so good. We’ve never had anything like it. It had this slight smokey taste and mixed with the cheese was absolutely scrumptious.
With that, I had high expectations for the pizza and they did not disappoint. We chose one white and one red sauce so we could try both styles. Topped with a glass of Brio, the pizza was super tasty and very filling. We even had enough leftovers to make a whole pie, which we took to go. I was hoping there would be a pesto option because that’s alway a favourite of mine, but maybe on a future menu.

In the end, I was very excited to come across Queen Margherita Pizza. The pizza tastes just as delicious as the photos look. (I’m drooling right now as I scroll their feed... And cue hunger).

This pizzeria is for sure a go to, if I’m ever craving thin crust, Italian style pizza. I’m due for a visit, since I haven’t had pizza in almost a month. So I definitely recommend you go check them out too!

xo
Stephanie

*Note: I visited Queen Margherita back in February 2017. Their online menu is slightly different so some items may no longer be available to order… which sucks if the grilled kale salad is gone. It was delicious!

June 8, 2017
High Park In Full Bloom

For the past 2 years I’ve missed out on seeing the Cherry Blossoms at High Park. I’ve either found out about the blossoms too late, or have been working. Because retail knows no days off.
And this year I was afraid I would miss out again since I will be in Italy around the time the trees usually bloom – Must say, it’s a pretty fair trade though.

Luckily enough, the cherry blossoms came early this year and I was able to catch it this past weekend! Good thing too, because it’s been rainy and gloomy the past few days so I was able to go on clear skies.

I asked bae to take me because I thought it would be a nice little day date. Taking a walk in the park and snapping some photos. Plus, I had been waiting for the perfect moment to wear my Air Max 1 Print sneakers this season.
And this was definitely the perfect time.
Enjoy!

It was only right to wear my Cherry Blossoms to go see the Cherry Blossoms!

They also had magnolias!.. which at first I thought were just a special type of cherry blossom. Either way, so pretty 😍

Sweater: Marquee Noir

Of course, I couldn’t leave without taking a shoefie!

I literally had to lay on the ground and kick my feet in the air, but hey! Anything to get the perfect shot, right?

Processed with VSCO with hb1 preset

Processed with VSCO with hb1 preset

If you’re thinking of going next year, I would suggest going during the early hours of the morning to avoid crowds. We got there in the late afternoon around 5pm. Had to drive around for a while to look for parking because the entrance we tried to go through was blocked off. Perhaps the lots were at full capacity? Didn’t mind so much though because we were finishing the first chapter of the S-Town podcast… because Ellen suggested to give it a listen. So we had to, duh!

I was super excited to see the Cherry Blossoms that day. I’m starting to love and admire flowers a lot, so I believe it’s most definitely worth the trek.

A tree of pure florals? And they’re pink?!
Enough said.

Such gorgeous blooms though. For sure, my future garden goals.
You win nature.

xo
Stephanie

*Note: Use coupon code ‘steph10’ for an extra 10% off your Marquee Noir purchase!

May 4, 2017
HAUL IT Pt. 3 Feat. L’Oréal

Just when I thought I was done, another beauty sale falls into my lap.

It was a never-ending cycle that week. And having already spent what I normally would in a year on beauty products, just in one week alone, I knew I definitely had to limit my spendings!

And I told myself, I’m allowed to spend no more than $50. Which seemed reasonable since I already had an idea of what to expect at this warehouse sale.

Then again that’s what I told myself about the Estèe Lauder sale.

So to conclude my makeup shopping spree… here’s my haul!

(Left to Right): L’Oréal, Styling Heat Spray, Vichy, Thermal Spa Water, L’Oréal, Straight Booster, Vichy, Idéal Soleil SPF 50, (Bottom) Maybelline lipsticks

I’m always looking for hair products that give me that ‘I just left the salon’ feel. I swear my hairdresser uses a magical shampoo and hair straightener, but she swears I can pull off the same look at home. So far, I can never get my hair as sleek and silky as she does, but I like testing out different products. This time I opted for a new heat protectant and a pre-conditioner smoothing treatment by L’Oréal. And at $4 each, you can’t go wrong.

The warehouse had a ton of Vichy products and I know how pricey they can get at Shoppers Drug Mart. Overwhelmed by all the night creams, I simply got sunblock and a facial mist. My sister convinced me to try the mist saying it contained minerals which was good for your skin. Later I find out that the one she tried was actually different brand, but the same idea. Did I really need a $9 water mist? No… but it’s hella refreshing and seemingly luxurious.

Lipsticks: (L) Matte, Blushing Pout, (R) Vivid Matte Liquid, Electric Pink

I was trying to steer clear of the makeup sections, but when I saw these 2 shades of pink I couldn’t resist. I love a bright fuchsia with black eyeliner and I’ve been looking for an everyday pink. Plus, I think they had a special deal for Maybelline lippies the day I went. They came in at $2 each!

Vichy, Dermablend Setting Powder

Now, one thing I’ve been meaning to add to my routine is setting powder. Originally I picked up the NYX Cosmetics Radiant Finishing Powder. It was a steal at about $5, but I found a tester and it was pure shimmer. No thanks. I’m all for a bit of sparkle and shine, but not a full face of it.
So I swapped that out for the Vichy Dermablend. This cost $10, but I prefer a matte finish since most of the bronzers and blushes I use already have a shimmer.

I spent a total of $47.46, tax included, so I came in under budget. Yay me!
However when you add up the total of all my hauls, well that’s another story. And to be honest, I haven’t done so yet because I know the final number is going to be appalling. Though, I’ve already paid off my credit card bill, so it doesn’t even matter anymore.

And I would have said that it was safe enough to say I won’t be buying makeup for the rest of the year, but there may be one more potential makeup haul to come. And this is the only makeup brand that I’ll make an exception for.

What is it? You’ll have to wait and see!
Until then,

xo
Stephanie

Click here to view pt. 1 of my NYX Haul.
Click here to view pt. 2 of my M.A.C. Haul.

April 25, 2017
HAUL IT Pt. 2 Feat. M.A.C. Cosmetics

In the past year my MAC collection basically exploded. And by exploded, I mean expanded. A very large percentage.
I went from not having purchased from them since 2010 to wanting all their foundation/base products and eye shadows. And in 2010 I last purchased some eye shadows from Santee Alley in L.A… so it was most likely way before that did I ever buy MAC.

No particular reason. I wasn’t boycotting them or anything. I do love their brand. And I like how they were founded in Toronto. It’s just their stuff is on the slightly pricey side for my taste. At the time, I didn’t want to spend $16 on a single eye shadow colour when I found other brands I was happy with (btw – their singles are now $19!). And I definitely don’t agree that MAC costs less in the States when it’s a Canadian product. C’mon people! Cater to your homeland.

It’s just one of those things where I know I’m being frugal, but I was okay with my makeup collection.

Then I got my first ticket to the Estée Lauder sale. Signed up for MAC Select. And KA-BOOM! My makeup got an upgrade.

So when I received an email that MAC was having their 25% off sale last month, I definitely wanted to take advantage of that. So I bought a bunch of stuff including, foundation, powder and shadows. Then of course, a couple of days after my purchase, I scored another ticket to the Estée Lauder sale.

*Cue racking up credit card bill*
And here is my haul!

Eye shadows: (Top) Beautiful Iris, (L) Crème de Violet, (R) Pink Venus, (Bottom) Bottle Green

(Left to Right): Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, Studio Fix Perfecting Stick, Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

And my order came with a free sample of their newest perfumes. I picked Candy Yum-Yum.

Goodies from the Estée Lauder Sale.

MAC Objects of Affection: glitters and pigment set in Gold + Beige

(Left to Right): Lithe, English Gilt, Pretty It Up, Gold, Deep Brown

It was a BOGO free sale! 2 for $25

Eye Shadow: Moon Is Blue

I was doing really well at first at this warehouse sale since I had just bought my other MAC stuff a couple of days earlier. The only things in my shopping bag were the pigments and eye shadow. And I thought I was good to cash out since I was basically done the last room… but then my sister pointed out the GLAMGLOW table.

And once I saw those prices I knew I needed them in my life.

The cleansers retail at Sephora for $43 for the 5oz. They were selling them for $17.20! And face masks, the 1.7oz retail for $79 and they going for $31.60!

Like, hello? How could I not buy them??

Especially since I just returned a so called sample pack they were selling at Sephora for $52. Suggested retail value of $110, but when I opened the box, 4 out of 5 samples were the size of my pinky. And I have small hands.

Cleansers: (L) Daily Clearing Supercleanse, (R) Daily Hydrating Thirstycleanse. Masks: (Top) Flashmud, (Bottom) Youthmud

I wished they had other GLAMGLOW products, but this was already more than I could hope for, so I was very happy with my purchase. They only other items they had that I didn’t get were the Powercleanse and Powermud because they were oil based. Plus, I thought 4 products were enough as I haven’t used their line yet and I need to see if it’s a match for my skin. (I got 2 of the same item because seriously, how could I say no to that deal?)

And just before you leave the sale, they always give you a free gift. The day I went was a pair of MAC nail polishes – the same colour. And before you exit the warehouse, you have the option to purchase a MAC $5 or $20 gift bag. Proceeds go towards charity. In the $5 you get at least 3 full size products. Which is a steal, but at the same time always a gamble because you never know what colours you get until you open it. This time was a good one as all the colours are actually wearable. It came with one eye shadow and two lipsticks.

Eye Shadow: Hello, There. Huggable Lipcolour (L) Origami Orange, (R) Bonsai Bloom. Nail Lacquer: Screaming Bright.

So I did some damage to my wallet with the NYX, MAC and Estée Lauder sales. And I thought I was safe and in the clear, but then I got tickets to the L’Oreal sale.

It’s like they plan this. To have their sales all at the same time and they know that I can’t turn them down because my curiosity gets the best of me. Needing to know what they have on sale, just in case I miss a great bargain.

Read more on my NYX haul here. And Stay tuned for Pt. 3!

xo
Stephanie

April 11, 2017
HAUL IT Pt. 1 Feat. NYX Cosmetics

I have always been curious about NYX Cosmetics. I remember spending many hours watching beauty videos on YouTube, seeing makeup gurus swatch all the different eye shadow colours and liners from their hauls. There was something I found satisfying about watching other people show me all the stuff they bought… but then I’d get major jelly because we didn’t have such stores in Canada.

And so it wasn’t too long ago that NYX finally made it’s way to Shoppers Drug Mart and now, more recently they started opening up stores around Toronto. I could finally try all the products I had been watching others use for years!

Though when I made it to a couple of locations in the GTA, the products I wanted to try were out of stock every time I visited – I guess there were other makeup lovers just as excited as I was. So it wasn’t until I found myself in NYX at the Oshawa Centre that I was able to snag some items!

It was a bit of a hassle because I had purchased a few items, but when I got home, I received an email for their Family & Friends event they were having 2 days later. Oh the troubles of not having a data plan on my cell phone. It was 20% off the entire store! So 2 days, 4 receipts and 5 transactions later*… tah-dah!
It’s haul time!

(L): Jumbo Eye Pencil in Pacific, (R): Liquid Crystal Liner in Crystal Pewter Note: The website lists Crystal Pewter to be a purple, but I find it more of a blue tone. That’s why I paired it with Pacific.

(Bottom): Pacific, (Middle): Crystal Pewter, (Top): combined

Vivid Brights Liquid Liner

Vivid Brights in Vivid Fire

(Bottom): Eye/Eyebrow Pencil, (Top): Lip Liner

(Top): Lavender Shimmer, (Bottom): Pale Pink

(L): Color Correcting Concealer, (R): Pro Dual Brow Brush no. 18

And my purchase came with eye shadow samples!

(Top): Morocco, (Middle): Rome, (Bottom): Copenhagen

I didn’t go crazy as it was my first time using NYX products. I wanted to test their products and see if I liked them before buying more. In total I spent just over $62 for 7 items – with a savings of about $15. Not the best of sales I’ve been to, but in general their prices are very affordable so I’m lucky to have had an added discount!

I’ve used almost all the items I bought for about a week now, with the exception of the Lavender Shimmer eye liner and the Rome and Copenhagen eye shadows. The colours are very pigmented, last all day and I find to be good quality.
I’ve been on the hunt for the Color Correcting Concealer for a while, but that was one of the items that was always sold out. I’m happy I finally got my hands on one because I’ve been looking for a portable palette to throw in my makeup bag that I can use under my foundation – especially for my dark circles.

Overall I’m very satisfied with my purchase. I do enjoy the Jumbo Pencil very much and will definitely be getting more colours… when I save some money. Because if you’ve been following my Insta stories you’ll know I went to three makeup sales in one week! My poor wallet.

I’d love to know if you went to the NYX sale and what you got in the comments below! And stay tuned for Haul It pt. 2 & 3 where I review what I got from the Mac/Estée Lauder and L’Oreal sales.

xo
Stephanie

*Note: It took that many transactions because I had to return and buy back all my items a bunch of times because the totals were off since the computer wasn’t putting in the discounts for all the items I’d bought. So kudos to NYX Oshawa for being so patient!

April 5, 2017
Current Mood: Rollerballs

There’s something about a nice bottle of perfume that makes me feel luxurious. It can also switch my mood from drab to fab. And even though the scent isn’t visible to the eye, that tiny spritz before I walk out the door adds the perfect final touch to my outfit.

Now, I could spend hours in the perfume section of Sephora, but it can be very overwhelming when I’m trying to find a new scent. Especially, when I’m going to be spending over $100 for a bottle.

Which is why I thank the beauty industry for inventing the rollerball. It allows me to be promiscuous with my perfume. Meaning, I can own a variety of different scents and it wouldn’t hurt my wallet so much. Plus, I can organize them neatly, saving tons of space, and I’m able to carry them in my purse without weighing it down.

While I wish I could go spending $100+ for every bottle of perfume I fall in love with, I would be spending a ton. And if I actually bought the full size of all the perfumes I wanted, it would take me decades to finish them all. Brands are coming out with so many new scents nowadays, I couldn’t keep up! So this really is the best of both worlds. I don’t break the bank and I can treat myself every now and then to a new perfume.

Perfumes are obviously a personal preference, but sometimes it’s also about knowing what sits well on your skin. I’m still testing out what I like and what I can wear. So at the moment, these are the four rollerballs I have that are currently in rotation.

Dolce & Gabbana, Light Blue
Light Blue is, hands down, my signature scent. I’ve been wearing it since my senior year of high school and until now, I’m still in love with it. Which is why it was an obvious choice for my rollerball collection.
It was given to me as a gift from a friend, and in the beginning I wasn’t sure I wanted it because I already had a full size bottle. Only later did I realize it only makes sense that I own the rollerball too because it’s my go to perfume. I want to be able to carry it around with me for touch ups or refreshment. And there’s something about the citrus scent, that can calm me down, put me in a good mood or give me that extra confidence boost.

Burberry, Brit Rhythm for Her Floral
After I discovered rollerballs, Brit Rhythm was something I was heavily considering. I wanted something totally different than my go to perfumes. Something floral since I was used to citrus scents. It was a hard decision between this, the Brit Sheer and the original Brit, so I let bae decide. After all, he’d be the only one that would be close enough to really smell it on me.
I do enjoy this one a lot. It’s more sweet and flirty and has a dewy feel to it. As well, very feminine and gives off hints of fruit. And it’s not over powering, so I like that I can wear it any season, day or night.

Giorgio Armani, Si
Si was something that I randomly stumbled upon. I worked in the mall and Sephora was just a few stores down from me, so I’d spend many break times in there. I would play around wearing various scents on different days, but I kept going back to Si for some reason. I was totally drawn to it. And when one of my coworkers complimented me on what I was wearing one day, that definitely solidified my decision.
This one I think is more timeless. It feels more mature than my other perfumes. It’s more wood base and kind of musky – not in a dirty ‘I haven’t showered’ sort of way. I get this hint of amber and cinnamon which gives it a strong GIRLBOSS essence. So I wear this when I want to exude my sexy and confident, ‘I’m gonna kick today’s ass’ side.

Kenzo, Flower by Kenzo
Flower I actually got as a Sephora sample. I had never heard of it before, but the second I applied it to my wrist I was intrigued. Though it’s called Flower, all I think is baby powder. And who doesn’t want that fresh scent?
This is the only spray bottle vs rollerball, but it’s still travel size. The powdery scent makes it very youthful and light. And it’s softer than the rest of my collection, so I thought it would be a great addition because it adds variation. Since it’s more playful, it’s definitely a day time scent, or I’d use it after a nice shower to continue that fresh feeling. It for sure belongs to a sunny, Spring day. So now is the perfect time for me to use it.

I do plan on adding more to my rollerball collection. At first, I wanted to see if these were the thing for me, but overall I really do enjoy them.

They’re inexpensive and they’re convenient for travel – whether I’m throwing them in my purse, putting them in an overnight bag, or packing them in my luggage for overseas. It doesn’t break the bank which it allows for many options. So, just as I like to switch up my handbags and jewellery, this is another accessory that I definitely enjoy having choices.

I’m already thinking of what’s next.
Perhaps Marc Jacobs, Daisy? Or Gucci, Flora?

Most likely both!

xo
Stephanie

March 23, 2017
FAB FINDS Feat. Kate Spade Jewellery

I may have a little shopping addiction when it comes to Kate Spade. More specifically their outlet stores.

They’re not the biggest of outlet stores here in the Toronto area, but I could easily spend over an hour in there without even realizing it. They just lure me in, because every visit I find they have new items.
Thus, leaving me in the same scenario which always ends up as follows – I’m waiting on a sales associate to price check an item for me that doesn’t have a tag, while I’ve got two purses on my shoulder and I’m balancing five items in my left hand so I can use my phone in my right to calculate my totals.

Never changes.

My last visit though, I told myself I was not going to buy anything since I was only there to help my sister shop for a birthday present. And I was doing very well, until I hit the jewellery stand. As mentioned before, accessories are my thing. Plus, who could turn down an extra 70% off?!

I’m a sucker for bows so I just love this detail. I had been eyeing this rose gold bracelet for a while. I passed it up a few times in exchange for some new purses during past visits. Then for a period, I never saw it in stores anymore and I thought I lost my chance, but when I saw they had stock, I couldn’t miss out again.

I especially like how this bracelet fits my hand nicely. I usually have trouble with sizing bracelets and bangles since a lot of them are too big for my hand and fall off.
This Kate Spade one is made smaller and has a clasp so I won’t need to worry about it slipping off. And I am obsessing over rose gold right now. I’m trying to build a collection and this piece will fit in perfectly!

Though I was content with just the bracelet, but I couldn’t pass up these earrings. I’m in love with this shade of blue. It’s not too bright and they’re just smaller than a dime, so I like how it subtly stands out against my brown hair. It just adds a little something extra, rather than your usual pair of clear gem studs. And they came in at just under $13!

I do love a good sale, so when I see a minimum of 50% off, I usually leave with a larger purchase like a handbag or wallet. Their small accessories always get me too. You can never have too many coin purses or card holders – at least that’s what I tell myself. Stop making such cute stuff Kate Spade!.. but don’t stop, because I love them.

In the end, I spent just over $32 for both items, which is a record for me in that store. So, I’m happy.

‘Til next time Kate Spade!

xo
Stephanie

March 15, 2017
Chapter IV

About a week ago marked four years that my boyfriend officially asked me to be his girlfriend… for a second time. No we didn’t break up over the years, but I did turn him down the first time he asked. I know, b*tch right? I had my reasons and I stick by them, but that’s a whole other story for another day!

Before we got together, I used to roll my eyes and secretly make fun of couples who celebrated their anniversaries. Maybe because I was single and petty. Maybe because I was hiding my jealousy. Maybe I thought it was dumb and just didn’t understand the idea of celebrating dating anniversaries. I mean, you’re not married. So whoop dee doo, you’re still together.

But that’s just it. You’re still together.

A lot can happen in a day, in a week or month. So most definitely within a year there must have been some significant things to have happened within the relationship. Both positive and negative. And the fact that you’ve faced them together should be acknowledged.
So why not celebrate? It’s a milestone.

Every year is different. Every year you are faced with life’s challenges, both as individual people and as a couple. Some years will be better than others. And sometimes it may be a good or bad year for only one of you, but it’s about support and compromise.

There is no set formula to what makes a relationship strong. We’re all different as individuals. That’s why you have to figure out what works for you.

Here are four things I’ve learned during our four years together.

I. Communicate
Dialogue is important. When you’re happy, express your happiness. And when you’re upset, express you’re upset.
When bae is frustrated with me, he lets me know. When I’m upset with bae, I don’t tell him because I don’t like conflict. I keep it to myself and hope he’ll figure it out. Especially if he doesn’t notice what he’s done. What ends up happening though, is I take out my frustration on him in other ways. I end up giving him the silent treatment, or I become very sarcastic and insulting. Which then makes him upset. Then I get more upset because he shouldn’t be upset. Then he eventually aplogizes, but he still doesn’t really know what he did. So when he thinks he’s reconciling, I’m just bottling up my feelings for another day. All this can be avoided if I just speak up. It’s something I’m still working on, but I know for us, open communication is important.

II. Trust
Before I was in a committed relationship it was all about me, myself and I. Whatever choices I made only affected me, but I learned I had to change my selfish way of thinking.
Yes, I still make decisions for myself, but now my decisions affect another person. In the early stages of being together, past relationships and experiences come in to play. There is a lot of subconscious comparing and unintended jealousy, but it is expected.
For the two of us, the little things I didn’t think were a big deal, became a big deal and I felt like bae didn’t trust me. At one point, it seemed like every answer I gave wasn’t good enough and I realized that his trust in me wasn’t something I could reassure. I couldn’t earn his trust. It was something he needed to overcome for himself.
Being completely open and honest with each other helped our communication, building our foundation of trust. And now, we move forward each day with nothing to hide.

III. Active Listening
I’ve learned that I have to be an active listener, especially when it comes to important issues.
So that doesn’t mean pretending to listen while bae is talking, but I’m actually daydreaming about the time Colin Farrell and I locked eyes. It means listening and paying attention to how he’s feeling and reading his body language.
I like to have important conversations in private. Because if it gets heated or calls for waterworks, I don’t want people seeing me. So I save my talks for the bedroom. That’s my safe zone. Bae likes to do his talking in the car. Now, I usually daydream in car rides, but I’ve learned to be more attentive because that’s his safe zone. When he’s opening up on the drive home, I know I need to pay more attention because later he won’t want to continue the conversation when I’m ready to talk. He just wants to relax in his room. So whenever bae is talking serious matters, I don’t cut him off because I know now is the time he needs me to listen.

IV. Me Time
When in a relationship, you can become so invested in each other, that when you finally have time for you, you don’t know what to do with yourself. You’ve lost interest in being alone.
No matter how much time I want to spend with bae, I try to make sure I still make time for myself. Bae and I don’t live together and because of our work schedules, the most we go is one day without seeing each other. So when I have a day to myself I have to make sure it doesn’t go to waste. I try to get in touch with me again. And my interests and goals.
Building this blog has helped a lot. I have a project that I’m excited to work on and bae supports that. So it’s easier to schedule time for myself without feeling guilty or like I’m neglecting him.

I’m sure you’ve read multiple articles and advice on what makes a lasting relationship, so some of these points may be redundant. Again, I’m not saying these four points are what everyone must do, but it’s a reflection of what I’ve learned works for me and my relationship.

As for anniversaries, you don’t have to go all out spending lots of money on gifts and fine dining. If that’s how you choose to celebrate, then great! If you choose to spend the night in bumming around and binge watching shows, then that’s great too! Just make sure you take the time to reflect on your relationship. Know what worked and what didn’t work.
Perhaps with some aspects, you’ll realize it’s time for a change.

And don’t be afraid of that.
There’s always room to grow.

Here’s looking forward to Chapter V.

xo
Stephanie

March 8, 2017
STYLE STEALS Feat. Dynamite

Working in a mall has its perks if you love to shop, but working in a mall can also be the death of your wallet if you love to shop.

When I have time to spare on my lunch or after work, I’m aimlessly walking the mall. I’m always checking out what’s new in store fronts and seeing if I can find those items I’ve recently seen on my Insta feed, in store.
Though, for some reason I notice when I’m on the hunt for a specific item, I can never find exactly what I’m looking for. Or, what happens is I’ll go into a store on the hunt for a particular item, but leave with another. Especially if there’s a sale. I generally have good will power, but sometimes you just come across a really good buy that you can’t pass up!

Most recently, I stumbled into Dynamite because I was looking for this sweater I saw on @jessicajuliien‘s Instagram. Because obviously Instagram is where I do my online window shopping now. It was this black sweatshirt that read, in white print, ‘MY LITTLE BLACK SWEATSHIRT.’ I know, Captain Obvious, right? I just thought it was cute!

Photo by: @jessicajuliien

So I make my way around, scoping the racks of clothing and folded displays. Eventually finding it hanging in the back of the store and it’s as cute as it looks in the photo. At this point I’m basically taking out my wallet, but as I’m reaching to find a size, I’m surprised by the material. I was expecting your basic cotton blend because you cannot go wrong with a cotton sweatshirt. Instead, I’m feeling some shiny scuba knit, which I’m okay with on a skirt or dress, but not what I’m looking for in a cozy casual sweatshirt. How am I supposed to stay cozy, yet fashionable on my lazy days in scuba? It still looks really cute though… And the more I’m staring at this photo, the more I’m wishing it bought it. Dammit.

Anywho… Disappointed, I turn to leave, but of course have to stop by the sale rack to satisfy my internal bargain hunter. You just never know what you’re going to find.
Unexpectedly, I come across a navy blue, velour cami with straps that criss cross in the back. Only one left and a price tag of $5 – I am sold. I mean, duh. It’s $5! The cut for me is too low in the front because the straps are a tad too long, but that’s nothing a little needle and thread can’t fix.

Besides the price, I love how this velour cami can be dressed up or down. The blue is so rich, yet subtle that it can be your pop of colour or stay neutral. I can dress it up by tucking it into black trousers/pencil skirt and throw a blazer/cardigan on top. Or, pair it with denim/ripped jean shorts if I’m going casual. It’s also a stretch material, which I like because I won’t feel constricted if I’m wearing it all day.

Most I love though, is that it was on sale.
Sales are my best friend. Regular price for this shirt I believe was $29.99 – from what I could read of the original tag under all the markdown stickers. Either way, for $5 this was definitely a steal.
Totally happy.

xo
Stephanie

March 2, 2017