Top Coats

Wool Blend Bridge Coat, $248, Ann Taylor

In our unpredictable Canadian climate, there’s one wardrobe staple we can always count on; a proper topper. So what then to look for when choosing a new cold-season coat? A great colour, quality fabric and a flattering silhouette. Beyond that, it all comes down to love. To help you in your search, we’ve tracked down 10 of the season’s best outfit-making coats for every budget, so you’ll be totally covered once the weather turns.

For all 10 coats, check out this week's article at iVillage.ca

Go Commando

Yesterday, I bought this belt.  Black leather-panelled leggings, cream chunky knit and flat boots in desperate need of a military twist.  I tied it on, allowing the camo and hit of neon to partially hide out under my sweater. Then I made a pit-stop at Starbucks.  Baristo peppered me with questions about my order (breakfast wrap with that? a pumpkin scone perhaps?) and then engaged me in a little friendly fire while staring not-so-subtly at my waist. Yup, full-on frontal assault. 'Where did you get that belt?' he finally demanded.  'Gap.' I replied with a curt nod. I rolled out, did a few army crawls through the parking lot and made it safely to my vehicle.  Headed out at 1600 hours.  Destination? Daycare. Had to do some serious progeny recon.  Worked my way through the toddler mêlée until I reached my target. Son and I marched purposefully towards the parking lot.  He glanced up and then, in a small voice shouted, "Cool belt, mom." Mission accomplished.

Pick up your Printed Calf Hair Belt ($34.95) (like now, soldiers) at Gap.   Warning: it's well-camouflaged, naturally, but worth the search. 

An Ann Taylor Toronto Giveaway

Just wrapped up a whirlwind week filled with interviews, previews and parties. Now, I'm rolling home on my early morning VIA train as I consider the day ahead;  deadlines loom, big, fat turkey awaits and I fully expect a domestic explosion (of the housekeeping kind) when I return.  Oh, and the pies.  The fam will freak if I don't make pumpkin pies.  I'm actually thinking pumpkin whoopie pies this year.  Cray-cray?

Please give this blogger a day pass and in place of a proper post, accept this blinged out bangle from last night's Ann Taylor party as my sparkly apology?  Ann Taylor, in case you haven't heard, opens at Toronto Eaton Centre today but I got a sneak peek at last night's media launch. Gorgeous store, so many pretty pieces (and people) and the best part?  They're actually price-matching the US.  Hallelujah! #lessonlearned

Oh and speaking of J.Crew, the amazing new Eaton Centre store opened yesterday as well, with Toronto's first ever men's shop.  Check back soon for all of my party pics from the week and more gift bag giveaways.

To win the Ann Taylor Brooch Cuff (one of Kate Hudson's fall faves), tell me your favourite part of Thanksgiving - be it an experience, a family tradition or a yummy recipe you can't be without (help! need inspiration).  I'll announce the winner at 5 pm today!

Gobble, gobble, happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful weekend to you!

 

Call Me Lazy

  

1. On the Dot iPhone 4 Cover, $35 US, Kate Spade; 2. Rissani Bamboo iPhone Case, $15, Indigo; 3. Whipsnake iPhone 4 Case, $35.50, J.Crew; 4. Tortoise iPhone 5 Case, $35.50, J.Crew; 5. Customizable Photo iPhone Case, $34.95, Casetagram (also available for Samsung Galaxy & iPads); 6. Moustache iPhone Case, $16, Urban Outfitters

Blackberry Curve Commuter Series Strength Case, $34.95, Otterbox (10% of proceeds go towards the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade)

Harper Gray Monogrammed iPhone 5 Cases, Etsy (ps - she also makes amazing stationery and business cards)

Ted Baker London 'Bird Branch' Galaxy S3 Cover, $46.33, Nordstrom

I'll admit that I'm embarassingly slow when it comes to adopting new technology.  Case in point: I just got an iPhone 4S. Call me lazy but I already had an iPhone 3 & couldn't be bothered to figure out a whole new phone, especially now that I've gotten so good(ish) at texting.  And I would have waited for the 5 but I have so many plugs/ports that it felt wasteful to have to buy all new ones.  But you say the Samsung Galaxy is where it's at?  Fine, the phone-tapping, file-sharing thing is super cool, especially if you have friends with great playlists. And their new ads are super compelling.  I want to watch videos while I text, too! Though I question if they're actually trying to create more accidents. Oh, but you over there?  BBM is so amazing, right? I know, I know...you could never give that up.  And sorry, what's an Android? 

I'm confused.   All I know is that I love a pretty phone case since they're an inexpensive way to convey your style while protecting your precious.  I'm not a big fan of overt insignia so my current keeper is made of simple, clear lucite.  These fun little cases are quite fetching, though, esp. that whipsnake number (LOVE), and will protect my poor smartie from the school of hard knocks that is my toddler-filled house. It's a miracle that my phone has survived it all.  The iPad on the other hand....

Knotty by Nature

It's all about the statement sweater at the Spring '13 shows - photo by Phil Oh, Vogue

Nothing cuts the fall chill quite like a great sweater. The current crop of knits proves that sweater have come a long way, with richer-than-ever colours, modern digital details and playful prints, meaning fun and function can beautifully coexist in one cozy package.  We’ve rounded up 10 of fall’s prettiest sweaters at iVillage.ca this week, with splurge vs. save options for each, so you’ll be properly snuggly all season long.  Happy October! x