G¥M POSER . WORK OUT BEAUT¥ MUST HAVES

I'm working up the willpower to make the commitment to the gym again – I'm still in that hazy phase where you set your alarm each morning with intent but never make it out of bed on time. This overwhelming feeling of lazyness needs to end and this week I've taken matters into my own hands – and by that I mean I've bought some new workout gear, created the ideal playlist and assembled my very own post-workout beauty army.

THE GEAR

Getting the courage to go to the gym for the first time in a while can be daunting – you want to look the part and fit in seamlessly. When it comes to gym wear I tend to stick with brands like Lululemon, Addidas and Nike – their products last the test of time and keep me stylish as I sweat. Lululemon is my true kryptonite. Just one look at the Cardi All Day ($178) cardigan, made of merino wool and you'll understand why. I've also recently become obsessed with a new water bottle company called bkr – their simplistic design mixed with edgy editorials and vivid inspirations make them a brand to know. Below are a few products that are currently on my gym-wear wishlist.

THE PLAYLIST

Now that we've got the look down pat it's time to focus on the music. I spend days at a time researching what songs to add to my playlists because I hate the feeling of begrudgingly listening to a song I dislike while running – it's completely demotivating. The genre that gets me moving: trap music. I've found so many great trap playlists on 8tracks – a site similar to Spotify that let's you explore pre-made playlists. The playlist from 8tracks on days when I'm too lazy to create my own is called Okay Work, found here. It features strong women like Rihanna and Queen B to empower you as you work out and even offers some profound advice: Do your damn squats, wear red lipstick and tell boys to fuck off.

THE POST-WORKOUT BEAUTY ARMY

Before we get into the powerful little post-workout beauty army that I've assembled let's talk about my pre-workout regime, which consists of simply one detoxifying cleanser, the Tata Harper Purifying Cleanser[*]. It's lovely. The Purifying Cleanser deeply cleanses my skin removing all traces of makeup and even imparts a cooling sensation that feels great pre-workout. Post-workout I like to cleanse my face and neck using a cleansing cloth –  currently the Olay Fresh Effects S'Wipe Out. However I find them slightly irritating. I'm dying to try out the Philosophy Purity Made Simple One Step Cleansing Cloths or the new Korres Greek Yoghurt Cleansing Wipes. Once cleansed I give my face a quick spritz of the Caudalie Beauty Elixir for a boost of radiance before moisturizing with whatever sample has peaked my interest that week. This week I've settled on the  Eve Lom Moisturizer[*] – so decadent, and so spa-worthy ahh.

My post-work makeup regime needs to remain quite simple because personally, I'm likely to be running errands or simply headed home to nap/binge on chocolates. The best errand running foundation I know of remains the Benefit Big Easy – it delivers light coverage, enhancing your skins natural beauty and hides any signs of the workout with it's matte finish. I then simply fill in my brows using the Benefit Gimme Brow, add a few coats of mascara and bring some life to my face with a pretty pink lip courtesy of the adorable Royal Apothic Tinties Lip Butter[*] in Pink. Although another great lip/cheek product to add colour and warm up the complexion are the Josie Maran Coconut Cheek Gelées – I used the shade Pink Escape while vacationing in Miami and absolutely loved the natural effect it delivered. Et voila, ready to face the world.

What keeps you on track before and after the gym?

AM¥     XO

*Some of items in this post have been sent to THE PRETT¥ VAIN for purpose of review. All views expressed reflect my own opinion on the product. For additional information please see the Disclaimer. 

TWO AND A HALF DECADES OF EXPERIENCES

Twenty Five. A Quarter of a Century. The moment you know – darling, we're not in Kansas anymore. There is a certain weighted feeling that comes with turning twenty five – it's the moment when you clearly understand that you are an adult, and from here on out every decision you make is truly your own. I can remember laying in my twin-sized bed in my first year of University with my roommate discussing all the things we aspired to achieve by the age of twenty-five. I look back on that day and laugh at the naivety that floated through my head – none of the things I envisioned happened and you know what, that makes me the happiest.

Now, I can look back on my twenty five years and feel truly proud that I have followed my heart (over my head) in each and every situation. I've loved and been loved, and understood that sometimes, although it can be terrifying, there is a need to gracefully let go of the things not meant for you. I've surrounded myself with people who build me up, who make me feel like I can conquer the world.. and most importantly – people who have shown me that happiness comes when you are at your truest form – free. 

And although I may not have it all together just yet, I'm getting pretty damn close.

KEEPING ME WAV¥... #1

1. Study Of Pose, 1000 poses by Coco Rocha

Last week my bestfriend got me into the #PartyWithFlare Event with Coco Rocha for her new book, Study Of Pose, at World MasterCard Fashion Week – that's a lot in one sentence. Not only is Coco stunning; she also has this beautiful, welcoming personality – which, she probably gets from her parents, who were at the event as well. She discussed the troubles of getting a book featuring 1000 poses signed, but thankfully it happened – this thing is the 'model bible'. It's completely blacked out (page edges included) with small gold accents, and inside, 1000 glorious pages featuring Coco in a leotard striking a different pose each time. This is the ultimate coffee table book.

2. Bossy bitches like Chynna Rodgers

Life can fucking suck. But when you listen to a 19 year old like Chynna Rogers rap with so much confidence, and well, no fucks given, it's hard not to get in that same mentality. She's hard and has a song called Glen Coco. Enough said. Check her out here.

3. Flawless, matte skin

Whenever I want to look like a little porcelain doll and embrace my ghostly-ness I reach for my Chanel Vitalumiére Aqua Cream Compact. This high coverage foundation evens out my skin tone, completely hiding any imperfections. It is also extremely long-lasting, but I find that since my skin is so dry I need to refresh my foundation with a spritz of the Caudalie Beauty Elixir every few hours.

4. The glossy nude/pink lip
I love a lip that can go with anything, and the glossy nude/pink lip is just that. My favourite pairing of the moment is my YSL Rouge Pur Couture Pure Colour Satiny Radiance in Blonde Ingenu – noted as Lana Del Rey's nude lip of choice, alongside the YSL Golden Gloss in 10 Golden Peony (released in a LE set). This lipstick is gorgeous and it feels like you have nothing on!

5. Smudged lashes

When I first purchased the Dior DiorShow Mascara it was for my Mom and she hated it. And then it was passed on to me an I hated it. But for some reason I was brought back to it and over time the formula has dried up slightly, meaning it's coating my lashes in thick, sometimes clumpy mascara – and I'm loving it. I also love when I smudge the mascara a little too close to the lash line... am I going crazy?

What's keeping you wavy this week?

AM¥     XO

THIRTS¥ FOR... 2

1. J. Crew | Jewelled Quill Statement Necklace ($150)

No one does statement necklaces quite like J.Crew. This necklace has all the fixings for a statement look, but if I'm being totally honest I see myself wearing this with black skinnies, a black crew neck and a camel coloured coat. 

2. Janessa Leone | ISIS Hat ($170)

Unfortunate name given the times but what a lovely little chapeau otherwise. And when it’s worn by the likes of Khloe Kardashian – my personal favourite – you just know it needs to make it’s way into your closet.

3. Herschel Supply Co. | Parker Backpack ($57)
Still on the search for the perfect backpack I stumbled upon the Parker Backpack by Herschel Supply Co. This backpack is much more utilitarian than what I’ve currently been searching for, but is more realistic for my current needs. Now the question is whether I would get sick of the camo print too quickly.

4. Kiehl's | Midnight Recovery Concentrate ($50)
Those who know me will know that I am oil obsessed. I’ve currently been using the Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil as my nightly moisturizer but it’s become a bit of a bore, and I’ve recently noticed a greasy film left on my skin come the morning. Now I have my sights set on the Midnight Recovery Concentrate by Kiehl's, an elixir made up of Squalene, Primrose Oil and Omega-6 Fatty Acids. I’ve had a few samples in the past and always loved the way my skin looked and felt come grind time. And it’s paraben free & mineral oil free.

5. Kat Von D | Studded Kiss Lipstick in Coven ($26)
From the bold lilac colour to the name, Coven is exactly what I’ve been searching for. The new(ish) Studded Kiss Lipsticks from Kat Von D offer 10-hour wear in unexpected ‘gothic’ shades that are able to deliver one-swipe payoff thanks to the Color Cushion Technology. Questioning my sanity on this one? Go take a peak at the swatches on Temptalia.

6. Shelley's London | Lovenia Boot ($150)
There is something unexpectedly chic when you black and navy blue are combined and these boots epitomize of that statement. From the suede to the subtle heel I’m obsessed. I see them paired with a pair of dark skinny jeans, a white blouse and a brown leather tote.

7. Buxom | Vanity Lash Mascara ($28)
Kind of the coolest concept in makeup currently, the Buxom Mascara Bar offers the Vanity Lash Mascara with seven brushes to choose from to create an array of lash effects. The mascara itself is infused with biotin and provitamin B5 to help strengthen lashes while shea butter, vitamin E, and olive oil work to nourish them. Now to choose a brush:

• Full & Fabulous – Its molded ball tips power through lashes for lavish fullness from roots to     ends.
• Big & Bushy – The ultra-bushy bristles layer on massive volume for maximum lash             length.
• Curl & Contour – An angled brush that hugs, contours, and shapes for head-turning curves.
• Thick & Defined – Its flexi-bristles and tapered tip create maximum thickness and ultimate definition.
• Strong & Long – A sleek, chic brush shaped to tease lashes to extreme lengths.
• Itty Bitty – This small but mighty brush discovers and amplifies your tiniest lashes.
• Lush & Lifted – One side of this brush builds ultra-plush lushness, while the other separates and lifts lashes to sky-high lengths.

8. Halloween Inspired Everything

This one is more of a general want. Which includes, but is not limited to: hocus pocus watching, pumpkin carving with a hot, manly beard (where are you!?), blood drip manicures, glow in the dark manicures, deeply discounted chocolate post-halloween and of course: halloween baking. 

9. Elizabeth & James | Nirvana Black Perfume Oil ($42)

No other scent will capture the essence of my personality quite like Nirvana Black. With heavy notes of Violet, Sandalwood and Vanilla this fragrance is the perfect balance of mystery, sensuality and warmth. Despite already owning the spray version and basking myself in it daily, I feel the need to purchase it's newest form, a pure perfume oil, which further exudes the sensuality of the scent. When I wear this perfume the lyrics 'I know I'm a goddess but don't catch no feelings' always comes to mind – Chynna Rogers is a beast.

10. Michael Kors | Bradshaw Chronograph Watch ($295)

No clue whether this is a menswear watch or not, but no care either really. There is so much good about this watch that I could die. The black/gold mix, the roman numerals, the size. Wooo. You will be mine. 

AMY     XO

BEAUT¥ BU¥S TO SUPPORT BREAST CANCER AWARNESS

Nowadays it's becoming eerily rare to meet someone who hasn't been affected by Breast Cancer in some shape or form. October marks the month of Breast Cancer Awareness, a time to 'think pink' and show your support – which is made easier with commemorative products. From a fun glitter polish to a lash/brow enhancer with the Cancer Survivor in mind, these fun – and adorably pink – products deserve a spot on your vanity, regardless of whether you needed a new pink lipstick or not.  

Wink Natural Cosmetics • Eyelash and Eyebrow Enhancer ($39)

The desire for longer lashes and thicker brows is one felt by nearly every girl I know, and I can only imagine how true that is for the cancer survivor. This October, Wink Natural Cosmetics launches their Buy One Give One For The Cure campaign – with every purchase of their Eyelash and Eyebrow Enhancer, the company will donate one tube to a cancer survivor. Each 5ml tube supplies enough product for 3 months of application, with visible results seen in just 2 weeks. I've been using this 2 in 1 serum for roughly 2 weeks now and can definitely say that I notice a difference in my lash length and brow volume, however full results are only seen after 8-12 weeks of use, at which time I will show off my complete results. 

Another feel good reason to enhance your natural beauty with Wink? This product is formulated without: parabens, sulfates, hormones/prostaglandins, artificial fragrances and artificial dyes. 

Essie • Nail Polish in Pinking About You ($9) 

Every October a slew of nail polish companies, including Essie, OPI and China Glaze create bubbly, pink collections to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year Essie released a gorgeous pink glitter top coat, called Pinking About You, with pretty pink pailettes that I couldn't resist. And while none of the proceeds of this polish directly support cancer research, Essie Weingarten, the founder, supports City of Hope, a leading research and treatment center for cancer, with a one-time flat donation of $10,000. And that alone was reason enough for me to don this top coat over Essie Blanc – although the internet has led me to conclude that Essie Pink Happy is the more appropriate base.

Origins • Drink Up Hydrating Lip Balm in Pink Guava ($17)

When a hydrating lip balm comes disguised as a lip gloss and supports Breast Cancer Awareness you simply say yes. This year Origins has released their Drink Up Hydrating Lip Balms in two colours; Berry Splash (LE) and Pink Guava with commemorative pink packaging to help support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation – a donation of $3.50 will be made with each purchase. These lip balms are ultra nourishing thanks to apricot kernel and avocado oils, and add a beautiful shine to your lips without feeling sticky like a gloss. I went for Pink Guava, a milky pink that appears rather transparent on the lips, meaning it can be worn to enhance your natural lips or paired with a lipstick to add a sexy sheen. And with the tingly, minty scent it will quickly become your 'partner in kissing' – pucker up.

Clinique | Pink With A Purpose Long Last Lipstick in Power With Pink ($19)

This lipstick set, complete with the small, yet versatile two-toned bag, is about as pink, bright and girly as it gets! And at a mere $19 it is the perfect way to test out Clinique's Long Last Lipsticks – which like me, you've probably overlooked – all while letting your generosity shine. Clinique will donate $3 from each purchase of this set to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation from now until 01/31/15, and trust me you don't want to miss out on this LE shade. Power With Pink is a medium-toned rose with subtle shimmer that offers 8 hours of crease free colour, housed in the brands classic, sleek silver packaging. The perfect everyday lip colour for all ages.   

How do you show your support?

AM¥     XO

TORONTO PHOTO DIAR¥... #1

From lush ivy walls to rainbow-coloured macarons to cotton-candy skies, this city has it all. And now that Vogue has named my neighbourhood, West Queen West, as one of the Coolest Neighbourhoods in the world I figured I should begin to photograph my time here  – forgive me for the lack of photos for Sept. as this idea came to me half way through the month. 

The highlights: 

– Attending the opening of The Power Plant's Fall Exhibition ft. the works of Julia Dault, Pedro Cabrita Reis and Shelagh Keeley

– Eating mountains of blueberry pancakes at School Bakery Café 

– Playing copious amounts of free PacMan at Get Well (drunk)
– Getting a bossy new hair cut & colour thanks to Anne-Marie at Coupe Bizarre (funniest conversation I have ever had at a Salon – left crying in a great way)

– Attending the launch party for the 'Steal The Look' app by Wet n Wild

– Strawberry margarita macarons at Nadège Patisserie 

– Endless nights researching the 'puss-ificiation' of men with my roommate thanks to Bravo's new show The Singles Project. 

AMY    XO

LAST FRIDA¥ I LET THE PART¥ GET THE BEST OF ME

Crop Top: American Apparel, Leather Shorts: Zara (no longer available), Belt: Vintage, Thigh High Socks: American Apparel, Open Track Sole Boot: Zara, Watch Marc By Marc Jacobs, Scent: Nirvana Black 

Last Friday, my roomate and I decided it was time to go out, get drunk and explore. A bottle of Prosecco and a few various drinks later we were ready, but not before taking a few photos, of course. Lately, when it comes to the dressing for the bar there is only one outfit option in mind: all blvck everything. To keep things slightly interesting I added a leopard print belt, thigh highs and a deep berry lip. 

AM¥   XO