Latest Outfit: Chevron

Gap sweater and 1969 Always Skinny jeans| Banana Republic trench | Converse sneakers (c/o) | LOVECOCO 'Valentina' earrings (c/o) | J. Crew invitation polka dot clutch | Hair bow from mirror mirror | WendyB and Filou rings | Joe Fresh 'Watermelon' (c/o) and Zoya 'Kissy' (c/o Spa Boutique) nail polishes | Revlon ColorBurst 'Fuchsia' lipstick

Perhaps it was the blazing sunshine or my long-anticipated yoga class, but last Saturday felt balmier and more cheerful than ever. In fact, it seemed so spring-like outside I was tempted to don my new piped navy trench for a few afternoon errands. I regretted my choice after a few hours though, when the sun disappeared behind cloud and fog and left a familiar, wintry chill in its wake. By the evening when the boy and I went to his brother and sister-in-law's place for dinner, I was back in a wool coat.

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Latest Outfit: Black and White

Banana Republic diamond jacquard pullover | J. Crew no. 2 pencil skirt (other colours) | Kate Spade 'Bow Bridge Kennedy' bag | Joe Fresh shoes | Necklace (old) | Clinique Chubby Stick in 'Plumped Up Pink'

Black and white is such a classic combination, but as one of spring's biggest trends, it's been reincarnated and reinvorgated in the form of bold graphic patterns. I've been drawn to all the black-and-white pieces trickling into stores lately, particularly this pullover from Banana Republic. Although the colours more closely resemble oatmeal and black in real life, I just couldn't resist the honeycomb pattern (so fun!) and thoughts of pairing it with bright pencil skirts and bags. Neutral colours and a graphic knit make this sweater feel as versatile as a black cardigan, but add much more visual interest to basic outfits. I can see myself wearing this sweater often as we slowly transition from winter to spring.

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Today's Outfit: Varsity Blues

Madewell letterman sweater-jacket | JACOB pretty bows blouse (c/o) | J. Crew no. 2 pencil skirt (floral brocade version available) | Joe Fresh boots | Vintage Coach bag (new re-issue available) | Beausoleil glasses

When I wrote about my love of varsity sweaters, gorgeous blogger Leesh commented, "I have seen these varsity jackets all around, but I am unsure of how to incorporate it into my wardrobe and still look girly." As soon as I read that, I interpreted her comment as a challenge of sorts and decided that the debut outfit post featuring my Madewell letterman sweater-jacket should be as feminine as possible. The sweater's sportiness is the perfect counterpoint to the JACOB sleeveless blouse's dainty bows and pintucks and the pencil skirt's watercolour floral print. With sleek ankle boots and a vintage navy leather bag, the overall effect is girly without being overly twee.

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Today's Outfit: Leather Sleeves and Autumn Calm

MICHAEL Michael Kors tweed blazer with faux leather sleeves (purchased at Privilege) | H&M striped tee | Gap 1969 Always Skinny jeans | Pour La Victoire 'Marne' boots | Vintage Coach bag (brand new re-issue also available) | Beausoleil glasses

The craziness of October seems to have calmed down in the last two weeks. Media previews and fashion events have given way to quiet weeknights at home with a glass of wine and Netflix (perfect for this self-proclaimed homebody). Even my workload is more manageable at the moment. A slower pace of life has also made want to "slow down," sartorially speaking, with easy outfits and minimal makeup, of which this is a prime example. These photos were taken the weekend I pulled outerwear pieces from Wear Else for our shoot. It was after my craziest week in October, when I had ten events and appointments in five days on top of a full work week. Phew!

The only downside of resting is that my body has mistakenly interpreted a slower pace of life as permission to get sick. I'm feeling a bit under the weather right now and hope it doesn't turn out for the worse. *crosses fingers*

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Today's Outfit: Back to Basics

JACOB convertible sash sleeveless blouse (c/o) | Banana Republic cardigan | Joe Fresh belt | J. Crew cafe capris | Paolo Corelli pumps | Badgley Mischka purse | J. Crew and H&M bangles

One of my fail-safe autumn outfits has always been a cardigan worn over a short-sleeved blouse, tee, or tank. Even today I'll still reach for this combination when I'm feeling lazy or rushed, or merely craving something comfortable. The latter was especially true when I donned this JACOB blouse for a day of errands. As great as its tomato red hue and bow detail look with this cardi-and-khakis ensemble, I imagine this blouse will look just as good tucked into pencil skirts, or worn loose over skinny jeans with the detachable bow tied around the waist as a sash. It's a versatile piece that can transition from the office to a casual date or a night of salsa dancing.

Speaking of salsa dancing, I feel compelled to tell you a bit about our trip to Seattle last weekend. The boy and I drove for three hours (plus the border wait) to dance at Century Ballroom with out-of-town salseros. (Lest you think we're insane, we know some hardcore dancers who drive there almost every week. In fact, salsa is why they got Nexus passes.) We spent the first day shopping and dancing. Unlike past trips where I was psyched to buy clothes and shoes, this time around I spent more time (and money) looking for things for the home: an acrylic tray to house my growing nail polish collection, kitchen essentials, Voluspa candles, luxuriously fluffy towels. As for the salsa dancing, it was SO much fun. Dancing with some of Seattle's best leads was completely worth the drive.

On the second day, we met up with some friends for brunch and strolled around Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square while enjoying the unseasonably warm sunshine. We also stopped by Experience Shoes because I needed some new salsa shoes. Experience turned out to be the highlight of the trip as we got to know owner Jim Hadley, a dance enthusiast and photographer who once shot for Vogue and Make Up For Ever. Jim ended up giving us a dance lesson in his store, ignoring Doc Marten-buying customers and even family members who stopped by to say hi just to show us a footwork combo.

Although we had low (read: zero) expectations of having good food during the trip, Seattle surprised us again and again. Carne asada tacos at Tacos Chukis (kudos to Yelp for that recommendation), thin-crust pizza at Via Tribunali, chicken and waffles at Local 360, and the creamiest clam chowder I've ever had from Pike Place Chowder were just some of the highlights. All in all, it was the perfect weekend getaway to unwind and relax. Other than this lingering cold I've been fighting, my spirits are rested and my energy is restored.

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Today's Outfit: Chambray and Lace

Zara shirt | H&M skirt | Joe Fresh belt | BCBGeneration and J. Crew bracelets | Roots clutch | Colcci shoes

I'm going to keep wearing pencil skirts sans tights as long as the sunny weather holds out. Case in point: this chambray-and-lace ensemble which I wore to the ION magazine x Little Burgundy media preview and party. In fact, I liked it so much I wore it again on Sunday for an afternoon of shopping and errands and dinner with my parents, albeit with a lower heel. Judging from the compliments and the admiring side-eyes and once-overs I got while trying on wedges at J. Crew, I'd say this combination was a resounding success.

Aside from celebrating my birthday (a quiet Tuesday dinner at Les Faux Bourgeois) and moving offices (from Yaletown to downtown bordering on Gastown), life lately has been an unending cycle of work, fashion events, yoga and salsa (whenever I can fit it in), and watching Netflix at home when I'm too tired to do anything else. This weekend though, the boy and I are busting out of our humdrum routines with a brief getaway to Seattle. Fun and relaxation, here I come!

To my Canadian readers, have a happy Thanksgiving weekend! And before you go into a turkey coma, remember to enter my Shopbop giveaway.

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Today's Outfit: Geek Chic

Banana Republic cardigan | H&M tee | J. Crew no. 2 pencil skirt | Nicholas Kirkwood flats | Kate Spade Bow Bridge Kennedy bag | Joe Fresh earrings

These photos were taken several weeks ago, but geek chic perfectly captures my state of mind lately. Aside from wearing my glasses a lot, I've been geeking out over work in between blogging and thinking about shoes or nail polish. Most of my brain power these days is devoted to explaining market research concepts or understanding how the developers are implementing a new feature. Between all the meetings and last-minute tasks, I've taken to bringing my laptop home on weeknights, trying to squeeze in a couple hours of work each day. Overwhelming sometimes, yes. However, as my mentor pointed out, it's better to be super busy because you're part of a growing company as opposed to the alternative.

This weekend though, I'm determined to enjoy every moment to the fullest instead of being cooped up at home complaining about how tired I am. Yoga, salsa dancing, brunch, some grocery shopping and maybe a leisurely stroll along Main Street. Yes, that sounds just about right.

Have a good weekend!

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Today's Outfit: A Touch of Red

Zara denim shirt | Gap tee (c/o; similar style here) | Cici pencil skirt | Rachel Comey x Urban Outfitters sandals | Necklace from Nordstrom Rack | Ray-Ban cat-eye shades | Roots bag

One of my favourite shortcuts for looking put-together with minimal effort is small but strategic doses of colour. In this case, I opted for red: orange-red lipstick (MAC 'Lady Danger'), sandals with a red vamp, and the red Roots wristlet I can't seem to stop using recently. These little touches of crimson really liven up an otherwise neutral outfit.

My sartorial goal for this month is to transition gracefully from summer to fall and take advantage of what little sunshine and balmy weather there is before the rain and cold arrive. (That being said, it's hard to resist the siren's call of the cozy sweaters, boots, and jackets in stores and in my closet.) I'll be wearing pencil skirts with bare legs whenever I can, and layering light cardis or a denim shirt over a tee or tank to fend off those chilly breezes. I'll have months and months to wear boots later; for now, I want to enjoy my open-toed shoes.

Have a good weekend!

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Today's Outfit: Anchors Away

J. Crew 'Maritime' striped dress | Joe Fresh belt | Coach bag | Marni x H&M sandals | Beausoleil glasses

When I first bought this dress, I envisioned myself wearing it to work as the perfect summer-to-fall transitional piece. The heavyweight cotton material and long sleeves would counterbalance the short hemline, keeping me warm but not letting me overheat. Since receiving it in the mail though, this dress has only seen the light of day on weekends. It's such an easy piece to throw on for laid-back days: incredibly comfortable, plus loose enough around the waistline to let me have a generous brunch and a big dinner, and maybe gorge on popcorn at the movies afterward.

Also noteworthy: my new tortoiseshell cat-eye glasses! Aren't they wonderful? They were an early birthday gift from the boy in August, when I was suffering too much from itchy allergy-ridden eyes to tolerate contacts for more than half an hour. Practicality, style, and 20/20 vision--these specs couldn't have been a more perfect (or more welcome) gift. Whenever someone compliments them, I make sure to pass on the compliment to him.

So, a quick status update on all the other areas of my life. Work is crazy enough that I now have to bring my laptop home at least one day a week and put in a few more hours. Our media stand finally arrived so we could put together that and the TV, and we've been hooked on Netflix ever since. As for my plans this weekend, they involve yoga and salsa dancing and who knows what else?

Have a good weekend!

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Today's Outfit: Deighton Cup

Francis dress | Pour La Victoire shoes | Roots clutch | Fascinator from Fine Finds | Joe Fresh earrings | J. Crew bracelet | Lipstick: Chanel Rouge Allure 'Enthusiast'
Photo by Framework Magazine

Donning fancy hats and fascinators, sipping mint juleps under the hot sun, enjoying live jazz, betting on thoroughbred horses. This might be de rigueur for regular attendees of the Kentucky Derby, but in Vancouver, this sort of horse-racing fantasy can only be had at the Deighton Cup. I had the chance to experience the Deighton Cup myself last weekend and see why it was dubbed the fashion and social event of the summer season.

Photo by Jonathan Evans

Not only was this my first time at the Deighton Cup, it was my first time at the race track and first foray into horse-betting. Who knew betting on horses was so complicated?! Hastings race course employees circulated through the crowds and explained the basics to novices like myself. The score sheets they carried bore a dizzying array of statistics in teeny tiny print: how the horses performed in their last four races, how their jockeys fared, how much the jockeys weighed, how the horse ranked after passing certain posts on the track, and so on. Beginners' luck worked in my favour though: I placed bets in two different races and won both times. I also had a lot of fun catching up with familiar faces. All in all, it was a great way to spend the afternoon.

After a day at the races, it was time to go home. The boy and I managed to fit in a few quick outfit photos before a sushi dinner and a night of salsa dancing.

Some notes about the outfit: I bought the fascinator at Fine Finds during my lunch break and figured I'd work out an outfit around it later. The colour was eye-catching, the shape was flattering, and it was substantial enough to almost pass for a hat. That fascinator was about to be worn with a black-and-white outfit when I remembered that I had this dress. I liked how everything worked together in the end: the navy blue, the red and orange accents, the ladylike feel of the fascinator and lipstick and low-heeled pumps.

Last weekend proved to be pretty busy. Let's see what this weekend holds. Happy Friday, dear readers!

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Today's Outfit: Warm Jade

Joe Fresh tee and nail polish in 'Canary' | J. Crew no. 2 pencil skirt in 'Warm Jade' and bracelet | Toodlebunny earrings (c/o) | Faryl Robin heels | Roots cross-body bag (worn as wristlet) | Ray-Ban cat-eye shades

Unlike other style bloggers who buy something new and make a point of photographing themselves wearing it, I'm usually so excited about wearing my purchases that I don't think to feature them in outfit posts until much later; by then the novelty has worn off. Such was the case with my second J. Crew no. 2 pencil skirt purchase: a cotton number in a bright green hue dubbed 'Warm Jade'. (My first one was in an equally bright pinkish purple called 'Iris Orchid' and made of wool.) Although that warm fuzzy post-consumer glow has worn off, I still love how this skirt is structured enough for the office yet colourful enough to attract a slew of compliments whenever I wear it to fashion events.

Actually, it's probably a good thing that I don't feel pressured to always wear and feature new things in outfit posts since all my money seems to be going toward home decor and furniture items these days. The boy and I went shopping last weekend and bought a dining table and four chairs, a chair for the hallway, a side table, and a lamp. Now to wait for everything to be delivered...

Have a great weekend!

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Estee Lauder Fall/Winter 2012 Preview

Although we're still in the throes of an August heat wave, beauty and fashion lovers are already looking ahead to fall trends. So are the major brands who deliver what they love season after season. I was lucky enough to attend an Estee Lauder fall/winter 2012 preview at the beautiful Hotel Georgia a couple weeks ago, where I got a sneak peek of their new Pure Color Vivid Shine collection for eyes, lips, and nails. Created by creative makeup director Tom Pecheux, the colours were inspired by the luminosity and ever-changing colours of Paris's city lights at night. The result: rich jewel tones with multi-dimensional pearlized textures. Here's a little look at what you can expect.

The Pure Color Gelee Powder Eyeshadows feature a liquid/powder/gel all-in-one formula that goes on smooth. The shadow isn't too pigmented, making it easy to get a subtle wash of colour or layer and blend multiple shadows for more dramatic looks. I love the texture of the eyeshadow (like a crumpled knit sweater) and the gold gilt square compact.

Estee Lauder's popular Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup has been reformulated to suit more skin tones, making it easier to find your exact shade.

The lipsticks in the Pure Color Vivid Shine collection contain silver and gold sparkle pearls, feel creamy on the lips, and have just enough pigment to provide a pop of colour without feeling really done up. The colour range contains a lot of pinks and corals that would flatter a wide variety of skin tones and brighten tired complexions. Again, love the gold packaging!

I was particularly intrigued by the Vivid Shine Luminizers. Wear them alone, or layer them over lipsticks you already own to subtly change their hue or texture.

The Pure Colour Nail Lacquer collection gets mad kudos for its breathtaking packaging: the ice-cube-shaped bottle and gold applicator feel oh so luxe. This collection also marks Estee Lauder's return to nail polish. Expect jewel tones with a touch of pearlescence and multi-dimensional shimmer as well as high shine. Also, keep your eyes peeled for limited edition colours only available at Holt Renfrew.

Pure Color Vivid Shine products are available at Estee Lauder cosmetics counters and online beginning this August.

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