My 2016 Revolution

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Dance All Night, Sleep All DayAlthough I would love to be able to dance all night and sleep all day, it’s not realistic at this point in my life (but you should have seen me 10 years ago!). These days you’ll find me working hard, spending time with my boy, family and friends, travelling and on occasion indulging in a few delicious vices. In short, I’m enjoying life!

However, the first day of 2016 has me reflecting on the past year. This is the time we all start making resolutions on how the next year will be different from the previous one. And inevitably, the resolutions are broken and guilt sets in. But not this year! This 2016 will be the year I embark on a REVOLUTION!

Instead of the age old “New Year, New You” motto I always fall into, I’m jumping aboard the “New Year, Better You” train. I’m in a great place in my life and I love it. I don’t need a new me or a new life. The one I’ve created for myself is pretty darn good. So this year, instead of trying to fix something that isn’t broken, I will work on making it even better. It’s a more positive and fun way to look at the year ahead.

I hope you join me in welcoming the New Year 2016 in a revolutionary way!

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Weekend Edition

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Magazine displayI can’t believe how long it’s been since I posted my last Weekend Edition. I guess it’s true that life sometimes gets in the way of fun. But I can no longer wait to share with you all a few inspiring ideas I have come across lately. I hope you will indulge in a little site surfing with me!

  • Although the countdown to Christmas has already begun, and the stress of shopping and decorating has officially set in, I try to make every day count with a special little gift. Here are 7 Awesome Advent Calendars that can help make every day of the holidays bright.
  • I understand that not everyone can afford the lifestyle peddled by the perennially pert Gwyneth Paltrow (yes, I went there!), but why not raise a glass to a delicious holiday cocktail or tasty treats that won’t break the bank.
  • Finally, curl up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate and flip through the best Christmas Gift Catalogue of the year. Thanks Neiman Marcus, I know what I’ll be dreaming about tonight!

Enjoy your weekend!

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MET Gala 2015 – China: Through the Looking Glass

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute gala was held last night. The theme of the 2015 fashion extravaganza was “China: Through the Looking Glass” and the stars were dressed to impress. There was no shortage of ladies bringing outstanding style and their own interpretation of the chinoiserie theme to the annual spectacle. But in my opinion it was couples fashion that ruled the red carpet as they channeled, complemented or highlighted each others style.

Red dominated as the premier fashion choice for many couples. The colour was a less literal take on the chinese motif. Symbolizing good fortune and joy, the elegant and sexy choice was an obvious hit. The men complemented their partners with sleek black in a gorgeous play of yin and yang.

Amal and George Clooney

Amal and George Clooney

Livia and Colin Firth

Livia and Colin Firth

Hannah Davis and Derek Jeter

Hannah Davis and Derek Jeter

Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade

Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade

Sarah Jessica Parker went husbandless partnering instead with Andy Cohen. Perfect arm candy with his matching poppy boutonniere. But not much could really upstage that original Philip Treacy head piece and only a fashion icon like SJP could pull it off.

Sarah Jessica Parker and Andy Cohen

Sarah Jessica Parker and Andy Cohen

There is nothing more complementary than partners (or sisters) that don’t upstage each other. Dressed in black, these couples are perfect bookends to this fashion story.

Renee Puente and Matthew Morrison

Renee Puente and Matthew Morrison

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend

Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen

Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen

Opposites attract and look simply stunning in black and white. Here style is all in the details (cutouts, embroidery, sparkles) and the men provide the perfect backdrop to their partners outstanding choices.

Hannah Bagshawe and Eddie Redmayne

Hannah Bagshawe and Eddie Redmayne

Cassie and Diddy

Cassie and Diddy

Two of the stars that shone the brightest on this night were Beyonce and Kim (no last names required for these two mavens of fashion headlines). In the gala’s most daring and baring dresses, both women were clearly the centre of attention. I’m not sure who the winner of this fashion fight was, but I know both Kanye and Jay-Z were happy to give up the spotlight to these gorgeous ladies.

Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z

Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z

Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West

Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West

I’d love to hear about who you thought were the galas winners or losers!

 

Seeing Home Decor Through Pink Coloured Glasses

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House and Home magazinesHome decor is a bit of an obsession. On weekends you can find me haunting big box home decor stores and small one-of-a-kind boutiques in search of treasures. Or in an indulgent moment, with a glass of wine in hand, pouring through a design magazine that arrived in the mail (sorry Mother Earth but I’m still partial to paper).

I have owned homes and rented and over the years I’ve managed to learn a thing or two about decor. It can be one of the most simple yet difficult things to do; Be both frustrating and rewarding. It can make you miserable or happy.

So whether you’re on a budget or not, here is my #1 tip: ADD PINK! I know this sounds scary to many who cringe at the thought of this sugary feminine colour, and would rather dip their paint brush into something black, or even worse, beige… but hear me out.

Pink carnations with coffee table books  Pink lilies on table top decorThere is a fine line between childish and chic when it comes to pink. Covering every surface in this bright hue could easily transform any room into a seven year old’s princess paradise, but just a touch of rose is the perfect accent to any design palette. Think of it like a swipe of lipstick. Or that pop of blush on your cheeks after a great workout. It makes you look and feel more vibrant. It’s nature’s perfect accent!

Pink horse statues on fireplaceFlip open any design magazine or style book and you will find gorgeous pink flowers dotting the pages. The colour provides a warmth and vibrancy to spaces without taking away from the design aesthetic. From blush to fuchsia, you can pair pink with a large array of colours to achieve whatever theme you’re after.

Add it to white or black for modern, crisp design, or pair it with natural colours and materials for a boho look. Scattered in the midst of other strong hues of blue, yellow, or green it can bring life to an eclectic space. Or you can go ultra sexy and glamorous by adding it to light neutrals alongside some sparkle and soft, luxurious textures.

A pink nosegay on the side tableSo go ahead and throw on your rose coloured glasses, life really is better in PINK!

I’d love to hear how you add my favourite colour to your space.

Weekend Edition

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An assortment of colourful flowersSpring is here!!!! I’ve been waiting to say those three little words for what seems like EVER! And first day temperature didn’t disappoint either. As I walked outside at lunch time, I closed my eyes and turned my face to soak in the warm rays like a starved flower. Hope you’ve had a gorgeous day and now can sit back and enjoy these weekend links!

  • I came across the beautiful artwork of Jose Romussi through my web wanderings and completely fell in love with this series of art pieces that combine embroidery and photography. Absolutely stunning!
  • I’m not the only one revelling in the first signs of spring. Carin Olsson shares some dreamy glimpses of the season in Paris on her site.
  • Sometimes you come across the most amazing thing and you feel like sharing it with everybody because it is that insanely good! Well I’ve found the perfect savoury treat that’s become a weekend favourite at my house.