CAPTURED // GOLD + SPARKLE

Happy Friday!

Christmas is just a weekend away and there's still no snow on the ground.

Not that I'm complaining but every time the weather is so mild. 

Christmas just creeps out of nowhere. And we are frantically checking off our shopping list.

Here's a glimpse of our tree that I had no part of decorating (so no credit to me) :P

GIFT GUIDE // GOLDEN SPARKLE

Oh Anthropologie! You are killing me with these amazing-ness. This season marks one of the best/worst season for a shopaholic like myself. Best... because the amazing-ness that just keeps spewing out; Worst... as a result of it's all things amazing-ness, my wallet is hurting.

Nevertheless, I will parade on and show you some items that peaked my interest: All things gold. Anthropologie not only does it have something pretty for your closet but it also has so many endless pretty things for your home. And with the holiday season just right around your corner... it's the perfect place to shop for the fashionistas in your life. And so begins my holiday gift guide.

1 Goldleaf Cocktail Dress // 2 Crochet Ardita Tank // 3 Beaded Altitude Tunic 

// 4 Creme Brulee Posts // 5 Capri Blue Cracked Ice Candle // 6 Zeolite Tray

// 7 Hedgehog Measuring Cups // 8 Bright Equilibrium Journal // 9 Golden Viper Journal

charisse

{All images via Anthropologie}

STYLING // TOP SHOP

Quite inspired with the New Arrivals from Top Shop. Yes, that's right my Top Shop love continues on. I don't think I can get enough of it especially since it finally opened in Eaton Centre. I get so much inspiration from their collection - it's just spewing out and I just had to share.

Who doesn't love paisley especially when its in such vibrant colours? Many people usually opt for the dark and gloom during the cold season (I, myself, am a suspect) but I'm changing that with a pop of colour. I fell in love with the skirt and I used that as a foundation of this outfit. As you may have notice, I do like to do a statement piece followed by basics that you may already have in your closet. I paired the skirt with a cozy black knit, I especially love the crystal detailing on the shoulder. Such a big trend this season and it adds some sparkle in your closet. I also fell in love with boots that has a gold tip. I need to get me one of those. It's so elegant yet edgy because of the suede. I topped it off with an army green beanie along with a pom pom to keep you warm and some striped tights that will elongate your legs. Keeps you warm and makes you look good too.

Tall Paisley Dip Pelmet // Crystal Shoulder Jumper // Awake Chelsea Point Boots

// Double Spike Chain Earrings // Clean Knit Hat // Jonathan Aston Horizon Tights

STYLING // TOP MAN

So as I said, I dropped by Top Man over the weekend and I think this is the 'it' shopping store for the guy in your life and it couldn't come at a better time. I fell in love with the knitted cardigans, the elbow patches and the fitted chinos. They had so many selections that would appeal to every guy (no matter how conservative they are).

Guys' fashion is never changing but I am loving how Top Man is introducing the guys to colours and prints. The first look is all about the knitted cardigan with the elbow patches anchored with the basic must-haves. All guys should have a great pair of chinos, a good pair of amazing loafers and a good leather belt. They are basic items that can be simply paired with a t-shirt and a jacket. This is a good option instead of wearing jeans for the smarter and sleek look. I decided I wanted to introduce how different prints can be combined, so I paired the cardigan with a stripe shirt. It's a basic piece that picks up the blues and the reds of the cardigan and it will match perfectly with it.

Light Grey Slim Chinos // Navy Nordic Pattern Cardigan // Samsoe & Samsoe T-Shirt

// Tan Leather Jeans Belt // Robri Suede Desert Shoes

EVENTS // HAPPY HALLOWEEN

I did some Halloween celebration over the weekend. Either I'm getting too old for clubbing or what because I did not enjoy it one bit especially during my last couple of outings. I love dancing but when the dj can't properly transition their songs from one to another it's disastrous... then when people just like to push and shove. I was just no longer in the mood. We ended up spending more time lining up than actually being in the club. So, back to what I decided to be for Halloween. I never like to buy costumes because well I think its a waste of money. So, I usually end up looking through my closet to see what I can put together. Then, I remembered the vintage marching band blazer I got a couple of weeks ago. I decided I will be a marching band person. I headed over to the dollar store and found myself a recorder for $1.25 and a bag full of pompoms. As a result, I became a person in a marching band that loves to throw tea parties and flies planes every now and then. Happy Halloween. 

What I'm wearing // vintage blazer, Joe Fresh shirt, Gap shorts, knee-high socks

LOOK BOOK // MMM X H&M COLLABORATION

Last night they had a launch party for new H&M collaborated collection with Maison Martin Margiela. When I first saw the sneak peak of the collection - I was indifferent. Probably because for years tailored items took the reigns. Though, the more I think about it the over sized clothing has been slowly making its mark. And now it has made a splash by this collaboration. The Margiela collection for H&M embarks to something new... and truthfully, comparing to past collabs - I think this maybe one of the most wearable collections because it is not over the top. The collection stems from the avant-garde style of being over-sized yet structured at the same time. Now, the more I look at it... I am loving this collection. Maybe I'll be there waiting in the line-up on November 15. What do you think of this collection? Do you love it or hate it? 

TRENDING // STATEMENT COATS

Living in Toronto especially in the months of November until March... we are bundled up in our coats, scarves, beanies and gloves. Toronto becomes a sea of black coats. Keyword was black coats... it gets super boring when you are on the subway and every person is in a black coat. Yes. I know black is a staple colour and it matches with everything but wouldn't it just be nice to NOT wear black. I'll admit I do have a black long wool coat but apart from that I have a purple peacoat that I wear often. Over the weekend, I dropped by Zara Eaton Centre and was completely floored by the amazing coats they have this season. Overall, this season could be my favourite collection. I would buy everything if I had all the money in the world. But, sadly, I don't.

Back on point, all coats can go with everything. All the coats I picked out could all be worn with a pair of jeans, a pair of slacks, skirts, and dresses. But the difference is that... they aren't black and they have something different about them. Statement pieces that makes you stand out of the crowd of the Canada Goose jackets and the TNA parkas. I would not recommend you wearing this in the below zero degree weather but when you are going out with friends or have a date... why not spruce up your outfit?

TRENDING // BOLD CLUTCHES

I headed down Queen West with Neha to show her my favourite boutiques that I go to when I need some shopping therapy. We dropped by Charlie and Bicyclette, of course. I finally got to see what the Coal Miner's Daughter is all about and I fell in love with this black & white stripe leather clutch, designed by a Vancouver designer. It's such a statement piece to have in your closet. Pair it with something casual (like what I have on in the picture) or dress it up for a night out in the city. I'm not thoroughly convinced with the price. But, as I keep staring at it. Maybe, I'll drop by and grab it. 

This brings me to another point... I am seeing a lot of clutches that are becoming the statement pieces of the outfit on the recent runway shows, so I wouldn't be surprise if we see more bold colours and prints in the upcoming season from Zara and H&M at more affordable clutches. I feel clutches has always been around just dabbling here and there, but once the long clutches arises (where you are able to put MUCH more things aka wallet, cellphone, make-up, etc without any bulge), I think they are here to stay. 

This clutch I actually bought about 3 years ago when I was in the Philippines made by a local designer Aranaz. I am very big on looking for local designers and buying their creation because it guarantees that no one will have it and I'm not part of the norm. Sadly, I actually haven't used it and it has been sitting in my closet ever since. The clutch is hand made out of straw with some studs and snake skin detailing that makes the clutch perfectly amazing. Now that it's out of my closet... I'll take this out for a test drive. 

EVERYDAY STYLE // FALLEN LEAVES

Cape from Anthropologie, Shirt from Joe Fresh, Bag from Rebecca Minkoff,

Jeans from Gap, Boots from Winners, Glasses from Chanel

I spotted some fallen leaves yesterday and as the temp drops to the late teens this weekend. I can't help feel giddy. You have no idea how much I love Fall. I get to finally take out my capes out for a spin after a dreary winter, a wet spring and a hot summer... It's always about layers but add so colours, florals and prints. Fall 2012 couldn't be anymore exciting. 

charisse

TRENDS // STATEMENT NECKLACES

So, I was in the Yorkdale area for a meeting and decided to pop in the mall for a bit especially since I rarely go there and it's the only place that has Top Shop. I walked through the Bay and the collared necklaces caught my eye. I feel that this season it is all about statement necklaces, be it collared or just an extravagant necklaces. It will indeed make your outfit even more special. Ironically though, while I was oohhh-ing and ahhhh-ing over the necklaces, I walked away with a cube ring from Top Shop. But here were some the styles that caught my eye. 

1. The Bay, buy here 2. The Bay, buy here 3. Top Shop, buy here 4. Top Shop, buy here. 

5. Top Shop, buy here 6. Top Shop, buy here 7. Top Shop, buy here

charisse

BASICS // JOE FRESH

Joe Fresh is the best place to buy good basics on a budget price that will ground your wardrobe. A couple of days ago, I went to the Joe Fresh/Loulou event at Queen and Portland. I spotted their coloured denim for $19 and a simple 3/4 cotton shirt for $10. I paired it with my fur vest, tassled necklace, RM Mac Mini and the Geox studded flats... you get a good transitioning outfit for fall.

charisse

SUMMER IS IN THE AIR

Toronto is getting the best weather anyone can imagine especially in March. So it only means one thing... spring cleaning. I can't wait to put away those bulky sweaters and bring out my summer wear and perhaps add a couple of more new pieces to the wardrobe. This summer I think I may continue on with my bohemian chic look especially now that my hair is long enough for the braids. Yes. Indeed, braids galore.

I always thought I knew what's new in fashion but clearly not when someone mentioned to me about Rory Beca for F21! In love with her collaboration with Forever21! It's light and fresh perfect for the summer. Perfect for my bohemian chic look I'm aiming for.

I am in love with the Floating Feather Flounce blouse... it would match perfectly with my long salmon skirt and my roman sandals.  The Sheer Colourblocked Maxi Dress would be perfect for a day on the beach or strolling down Queen West.

And all of these pieces are under $40... what wouldn't you love about that?

Until then...
charisse
{Image via CubaGallery} 

LOOK BOOK // ALEXANDER MCQUEEN PRE-FALL '12

Oh Sarah Burton, you have done it again! Amazing collection for Pre-Fall '12. I just couldn't decide which ones were my favourite. Sarah Burton culled influence from the Victorian era — and particularly the ultra-full circle skirts of that period — for Pre-Fall 2012. Also worked into the mix: the nipped-in waists of '50s couture, lush fabric motifs inspired by Elizabethan art, and exaggerated silhouettes that hint at the work of Charles James. "I've raised the waist, kept the peplum, but moved away from the pencil skirt," Burton explained. View Entire Collection >>

charisse

{images via Fashionologie.com}

RUNWAY // ROBERTO CAVALLI F/W '12 (MILAN)

Milan Fashion Week is underway... and Roberto Cavalli doesn't disappoint. Menswear usually doesn't interest me as much but this year it seems likes its different. Roberto Cavalli did an amazing job for the Fall/Winter 2012 runway show... here are some of my favourite looks. I hope the Toronto men take notes.

charisse

{images via GQ.com}

LOOK BOOK // JASON WU FOR TARGET

As if I can't wait for Target to finally come to Canada... after seeing the new collection Jason Wu has for Target. I want Target to open ASAP. Here are some of my favourite pieces:

charisse

{images via Refinery29}

LOOK BOOK // PIAMITA RESORT '12

How gorgeous is this Resort line from Piamita? The perfect loungewear that is flattering yet comfortable, while also looking sophisticated and polished. Loving the bold prints with the pop of colours. Who wouldn't want this in their wardrobe? I would love to have everything!

charisse

{images via Piamita}

Happy 2012!

Happy 2012, everyone! I hope everyone had a marvelous new years! I counted down with the most wonderful lovelies in my life. How did you spend yours? 

I welcome 2012 with open arms.... and the word for 2012 is GLAM. It's all about living life to the fullest and much more. This year will serve to be the best to come. Cheers!

charisse

Happy New Year.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! I'm not much of a party-er so I'll be going over my friend's place and counting down with my lovelies. How are you spending New Year's Eve?

charisse
{Images via shopruche.tumblr.com}

A Pink & Black Celebration

I'm scrambling for outfits I can wear to the New Year's Eve party with a very strict dress colour code of Pink + Black. And all I can think of is this Yumi dress I got awhile back from Charlie's Boutique for my friend's wedding. I say it should suffice with the theme - I'll be pairing it with my black blazer from Bicyclette and accessorise it with all things black: jewelry, hoisery and my JC wedges. Done and done... unless... a hot magenta dress magically appears from now until Saturday. What will you be wearing during the countdown to a New Year?

charisse

{image via Charlie's Boutique}

Resolutions.

Still working away my resolutions... I figure I should be more realistic next year and list out things I will and can do continuously in the year 2012. Are you also making a list for 2012?

charisse
{images via W+K Studio}