DECK THE HOLS | 3 Jeanious Holiday Outfit Ideas

When DENIZEN from the Levi’s brand asked me to be their Canadian brand ambassador, I did a few celebratory lunges, then set out to test-drive their many styles of jeans. I've been super impressed by the fit and of course the $30 price point, and narrowed it down to a few favs along the way, including these sick black skinnies. My go-to pair of the moment? The DENIZEN Modern Straight in dark indigo. I call it the forgiving skinny, leg-hugging all the way down but with a friendly break at the ankle so you don't feel like you've been swallowed whole by your jeans. Blame it on the nog but I'm craving extra breathing room this season, aren't you?  

I've put together 3 cute outfit ideas for those of you searching for some denim inspiration over the hols. With the help of a few plaid pieces, a little faux fur and some winter-ready extras, you can don your denim everywhere (yes, even $30 denim), from downtime with your fam to a big New Year's bash. If you're at Target picking up last-minute things this week, wander through the DENIZEN racks and be sure to try on a pair or two while you're at it.

Off to write more cards (come on Canada Post, can we make this happen?), wrap some more gifts and speaking of nog, is 9:30 too early or can we just let that rule slide over the holidays? Yup, we are so on the same page.

Be back next week with more New Year's outfit inspiration. Until then, hope you have the merriest Christmas lovelies! xx

 

Pom Pom Toque, Joe Fresh | Camel Turtleneck, Winners | Plaid Shawl, The Art of Home | Gloves (similar) Club Monaco | White Shearling Clutch, Brunswick + Co. | DENIZEN Indigo Jeans, Target | Grey Ankle Boots, ALDO.

Wool Baseball Cap, Old Navy | Smythe Duchess Blazer, Shopbop | Sequined Tank, Joe Fresh | Checked Scarf, GAP | DENIZEN Indigo Jeans, Target | Editor's Pouch, ela Handbags.

Sunglasses, J.Crew | White Shirt, Brooks Brothers | Black Fringe Necklace, Cocoa Jewelry | Velvet Blazer, Winners | Celine Down Parka, Danier |  DENIZEN Indigo Jeans, Target | Christian Louboutin Studded Pumps, Holt Renfrew.

Black + Camel + Gold

Pom Pom Toque, Joe Fresh | Mirrored Sunnies, similar American Eagle | Sweater w Gold Zips, J.Crew | Gorjana Gold Necklace, Shopbop | Camel Coat, Jones New York | Fingerless Gloves, Joe Fresh | Polka-Dot Pants, Joe Fresh | Ankle Boots, GAP.

I love wearing all black but find that unless you change up the textures, it can get really boring, really fast. Which is why I am loving these tone-on-tone polka-dot pants from Joe Fresh. Even if you don't like printed bottoms, the print and the price are palatable. I like to top my black off with a classic camel coat (you need one), and, of course, some cheap, cheerful ski-bunny accessories like these fingerless gloves and pom pom toque, also from Joe Fresh. And while I like certain statement necklaces, the whole massive statement jewel necklace worn over a done-up blouse, worn over a sweater, is all starting to look a little bit been-there-worn-that. My new fav thing? A long gold pendant necklace. I currently own a few beauties - the one pictured is Gorjana from Shopbop, and I also love the Rebel Pendant from Stella & Dot.

As you know, I don't do a lot of outfit posts here (which is why you should follow me on Instagram, svp), because my husband is not the most willing photographer. I don't get what he does with all his time. As if starting a business is more important than taking pictures of my outfits. Honestly....men ;)

Um, is it Friday yet?

Smart Buy Glasses | Why Not YSL?

In my YSL 6374's

SmartBuyGlasses.ca got in touch last week and asked me to pick out a pair of designer glasses from their site in exchange for an honest review. As someone who breaks everything, I often opt for inexpensive shades to avoid the crush of disappointment which will inevitably come when I scratch/drop/step on/sit upon them. Many $20 shades have come and gone but in my 30's, I've realized that I deserve designer shades. I can take care of two children - I should be able to handle a pair of sunglasses, right?

I waffled between Ray-Bans and Persols, trying to decide between Wayfarers and aviators. I could not have gone wrong with either. But when Yves Saint Laurent gets thrown into the mix, my philosophy is that you always choose YSL. 

I opted for the YSL 6374, a vintage-looking cat-eye that I knew would give me a glam little lift leading into the hols but also fell for the YSL BOLD 2. Each pair retails for around $230 which, for something I'll wear all year, I feel is totally justifiable. 

My glasses just arrived in the mail and as expected, I love YSL shades. They're solidly built, beautifully designed thanks to the interesting frame detail, and instantly flattering. I opted for tortoiseshell but if I didn't already own so many pairs of black sunglasses, would have loved them even more in black. 

Looking for the perfect gift for you or one of your favourites? Be sure to check out the Smart Buy Glasses Christmas Gift Guide. Aaand, since sunglasses are so deeply personal, a Gift Card always fits.

Love this site! Even if I am a little biased...

Yves Saint Laurent 6374 Sunglasses, $224, SmartBuyGlasses.ca

Yves Saint Laurent BOLD 2 Sunglasses, $234, SmartBuyGlasses.ca

Still undecided? Check out these YouTube vids below before you buy:

The All New Jean Machine

I love the idea of jean shopping but in practice? Let's just say it can be overwhelming. A few weeks ago, Jean Machine asked me to be one of the first to come in and shop their newly remerchandised store at Toronto Eaton Centre and since I hadn't set foot in the store in a few years, could not wait to check it out. After all, I bought my first pair of Silvers at Jean Machine with my first real paycheque and picked up many more pairs throughout the years, so we have a long history of hits and misses. Oh, if those changerooms could talk...

The invite to check out the new Jean Machine store came with a few exciting promises: a new and improved product mix (curated with the help of famed fashion/creative director, Susie Sheffman), a little personal shopping help from Jean Machine's expert in-store stylists, plus a $200 credit to pick out a full look. Um, yay?!

I showed up at Toronto Eaton Centre and right away, noticed the super cute campaign styling and a slightly more airy feel to the space than before. I was greeted by the team of Jean Machine beauties, eager to help me find my perfect pair. I let them have their way with me. 'Size me up, show me what's new. Only one thing: no blue. I want black.'

I passed loads of jeans, all beautifully organized by fit to make the jean-shopping process more manageable and was thrilled to see some of my favourite denim brands in stock throughout the store plus other labels I love like Soia & Kyo, ONLY, and Vero Moda. Beyond jeans, I saw loads of gorgeous coats, some super pretty dresses and fashion-girl musts like felt fedoras and oversized plaid scarves.

The girls picked out a dozen super pretty pieces (mostly black) and I had a super fun try-on sesh. While one Jean Machiner was rooting for an emerald blouse and body-hugging leggings, it just wasn't me. So we agreed that I should go for all black with loads of texture to keep it interesting. Being a mom can make you feel too good, if that makes sense. I needed some pieces with edge.

I ended up with a Guess faux-fur vest which I LOVE, a pair of perfect faux leather joggers from YDE Studio and a fun textured black tee. They look great together but I especially love that I'll be able to easily mix each piece into my wardrobe this winter.

If you haven't had the chance, be sure to check out the new Jean Machine. You'll love what they've done with the place.

#WIN IT | A Smart Set Holiday Giveaway

Originally posted in The Fashion Scoop

The holidays are only a month away (insert panic button here) and while this festive season calls for loads of comfy gear (think PJ's, parkas and plaid scarves), it also requires putting on your party best. From family meet-ups to festive fêtes, it's always a challenge to look unique. Luckily, you don't have to spend a fortune to outshine those twinkly lights. My go-to spot for cheerfully cheap party pieces? Smart Set, of course. This store's always got the season covered with embellished sweaters, sexy dresses and just-edgy-enough accessories to help you shine throughout the holidays.

To inspire you away from your LBD, I've put together 3 pretty party looks that keep style and comfort top of mind, from a bomber worn over a wind-chill-friendly maxi, to a cozy tulle skirt/sweater combo you'll want to wear everywhere.  And to help you shop your fav Smart Set look, we're giving away a $100 Smart Set Gift Card! 

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