Happy Weekend!

 A wedding in Montreal with the in-laws - 2009

Not sure what our plans for the weekend are, maybe we will take Matthew to the island, not "The Island", just Toronto Island. Whether we go or not I'm pretty sure I'll have fun, I'm in Toronto!

Wishing you a great weekend, thanks for stopping by! And don't forget to check out these links ;)

> The world in a cup of coffee

> Making some art with paint chips

> A very, very easy DIY headband

> Scary brownies
> Hahaha I laughed at this
> Did you get a chance to read this? I cried out of laugh, literally.
> This is one of my favorite ingredient combinations

My life file: Birthday presents

Remember my B-day wishlist? Well, there is no doubt I got spoiled, I'm a really lucky girl ;)

Untitled File: A giveaway

I'm having a giveaway at Kendi's blog Kendi Everyday, so if you would like to enter for a chance to win a gift card to my etsy shop head over there and leave a comment with your favorite piece!
Photo by me, necklace graphics and banner by Kendi, post graphic by me.

Cool Things File:

A while back ago I posted about these bikes to help your kids take their first steps in the world of two wheels, and now I found these bright and modern ones from Glodos. They are called the BIT bike, and I think they are pretty cool, don't you agree?

My life file: Traveling

Today I'm traveling to my beloved city of Toronto. Can't wait to be home, even if it's for a short period of time. I'm going to enjoy it to the max! See you soon ;)

Image via Pinterest

Blog Series: In my Makeup Bag

This week's guest on "In my make-up bag" is the talented blogger, owner and artist Jen of Made by Girl. Apart from being seriously talented, Jen is one of those people who seems (I don't personally know her) to be a good soul (I guess that's why so many people like her!), she is very approachable and seems highly grounded even though she has had (and continues to have) a huge success.

Do you have a make-up tip or secret you would like to share?
I discovered Mac paint pot for my eye lids- applying it before eyeshadow helps keep the shadow on all day! 

Any particular make-up trend that you're looking forward for fall?
I know this is boring, but not really.....I actually tend to change my nail polish more than I do my makeup. 

How does your day make-up routine differs from your night time one?
It doesn't that much...the only thing that's different is that I add a heavier eye shadow at night...but normally I just use the same color for my lids from day to night. 

Get Jen's favorite products:
> MAC Studio fix powder
> Dior Diorskin AirFlash spay foundation "it's the closest thing I found to airbrush makeup..and leaves the skin looking smooth. The only drawback is that it doesn't last too long, they should carry a bigger bottle"
> MAC false lashes mascara
> Shu Emura Nobara cream cover stick foundation
> Lancome Juicy tubes
> Laura Mercier secret camouflage
> GAP Pyramid Stud Clutch

* Gracias Jen!

Etsy File: Preview

You have no idea how excited I was when I went to AC Moore to get some DMC threads. I've been wanting to make these bracelets since we moved to The Island but you know how it is down there.... you can't expect to find DMC threads if it's so damn hard to find an avocado!
Hopefully I'll upload a few of them this week to the shop ;)

Inspiration File: J.Crew's Runway debut

Even though this was the Spring 2012 preview I think that the gorgeous fabrics, colors, layers and patterns are a great inspiration for fall (and an excellent way to start the week), don't you think?
Images via Vogue.com

Happy Weekend!

The Carousel at Pier 39 - San Francisco - 2011

Hope you all have a good start to your weekend! Today husband is going back to The Island so last night I packed as much as I could in his suitcases. We have never spent more than 10 days apart and I won't see him until the 13th so is not going to be easy to say goodbye :(

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the following links:

> I have a HUGE crush on this guy (don't we all?)

> In disguise

> Styling a sock on your hair, yep, a sock

> I'm sure this song is going to run with me everyday

> Next time someone asks your age, refer them to this

> Pretty belts

> Another great bracelet DIY

PS: Thanks so much for the birthday wishes! :)

Fashion File: NYFW Favorites, Part III

This is my last round of favorites from NYFW.
Even though I love the flowiness of some really great collections like Carolina Herrera's, the pleating at Prada and the bright colors at Nanette Lepore, I can't say enough how much I love Burberry Prorsum's collection, from the very top (those hats!) to the very bottom (the shoes!) to me, every single outfit is perfect!

All images via Style.com
Check out more: Burberry Prorsum, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Nanette Lepore, Prada.

Untitled File: My B-day!

Today is my B-day, and I'm celebrating it off The Island, wohoo!!!
Images via Pinterest here and here.
Graphic design by me.

Fashion File: NYFW Favorites, Part II

My second round of favorites from NYFW.
Images via Style.com
You can check the entire collections: Gucci, Carolina Herrera, J.Crew, Ralph Lauren.

Videos File: Wearing a scarf

As soon as my mom found this video she immediately shared it with me and I thought it was genius, pretty cool huh?

PS: I completely forgot to mention that I recently shared a Date Night outfit over at Chassity's blog, so if you want to check it out click here ;)

Blog Series: In my Makeup Bag

This week I have Ali from With an i.e. sharing her favorite products. I started reading her blog not so long ago, but I'm so happy I ran into it because I really enjoy it (did I mention she's a DIY master?), so make sure you check it out!

What's your current make-up bag?
I actually use a make-up box instead of a make-up bag (except when I travel). I find it easier to find items in this versus digging through a bag. I have had this one from Target for several years now, but love it.

Do you have a make-up tip or secret you would like to share?
Use a highlighter (I like MAC cream color base in Hush) on the apples of your cheeks and your brow bone, it will really add dimension and gives you a nice healthy glow. Also, since everyone has different skin tones, I think it's important to find colors that look good on you and highlight your best features.

Any particular make-up trend that you're looking forward for fall?
I'm really liking the whole cat eyeliner look, although I'm still trying to master it on myself. Also, not only are we seeing a lot of color in fashion this fall, but also when it comes to make-up, I think this might be a fun trend to try as well.

How does your day make-up routine differs from your night time one?
My make-up routine doesn't differ a whole lot from day to night. I usually like to do a bolder lip and then I usually just apply more mascara and touch up my eyeliner.

Get Ali's favorite products:
> Bare Minerals Foundation Fairly Light 
> MAC Eyeliner Pencil in Teddy 
> MAC  Fix +
> Maybelline  Color Sensational lipcolor in Fuchsia Fever
> Essie Nail Color in Power Clutch
> Clinique High Lengths Mascara
> MAC Paints in bare canvas

Fashion File: NYFW Favorites, Part I

These are my favorite looks from my favorite collections from New York Fashion Week. More to come this week!
Click here for more: Christian Siriano, Alice + Olivia, Tibi, Jason Wu.
Images via Style.com 

My life File: Recent Purchases

Let's start the week with a sneak peek into a couple of my latest purchases, shall we? It's been a little bit hard to resist on getting fall clothes (my favorite ones), but in The Island is pretty hot so I've been focusing on summer clothes (the few that are still available!). 

I know that I won't use the oxfords a lot in The Island but I couldn't resist them (I have a thing for oxfords). They are no longer available (I ordered them online a while ago) but they have these ones now (which I love!) and if they are the same quality I highly recommend them!

Top to bottom: Rebecca Minkoff Bag, J.Crew Denim Shorts, Anthropologie Green Shorts, Brushed Trouser Shorts, Allotrope Shorts, Brushed Trouser Shorts, Madewell Canvas and Leather Oxfords, Anthropologie Waving Pennant Necklace

PS: I narrowed down my favorite collections from NYFW, so I'll start sharing them this week ;)

Happy (belated) Weekend

Singapore Flyer, Singapore - 2009

My scheduled post didn't go up (bummer!) So I hope you're having a good weekend start and that you enjoy the following links! Thanks for stopping by ;)

> These dresses make me want to do it all over again (with the same guy of course)

> Fingerprints creatures

> Make your own glitter earrings (gorgeous and easy peasy)

> Missoni for Target on ebay, CRAZY!

> Eat a rainbow

> A balloon race!
> Step-by-step makeup

Outfits File: Friday shopping

Well well, I have a couple of people asking me why wouldn't I post my outfits? I don't mind taking pics of myself but without a good camera and a photographer (perhaps husband?) I won't do it (I'm kind of a perfectionist freak!), so I'll try to lay them down on my bed and take a pic so you can get an idea of what I'm wearing, is that ok?

I'm going out shopping with my mom, so even though is hot today here in Miami, the mall gets pretty cold so that's why I'm taking a cardi/wrap with me.

Madewell Top, J.Crew necklace, Tory Burch necklace, Banana Republic Factory Belt, J.Crew Shorts, J.Crew Wrap, Gucci Sunglasses, Steve Madden Sandals

Tips File: A b-day gift guide

In honor of their birthdays, Danielle and Sarah are celebrating this week with fun posts and a b-day gift guide. Being my b-day so close the theirs (mine is on the 22nd),  I couldn't resist to join in. 
I know that on Monday I posted my wishlist but today I'm sharing some really great products that I love that would make a great gift for your loved ones (and for me too of course!).
Make sure to check out their blogs for more great finds ;)

1. Balmain Wolf & Feather Print Scarf
2. Kate Spade iPhone 4 Hard Cover
3. Lulu Frost for J.Crew Turquoise Stone Bangle
4. Sam Edelman Etiene Loafer
5. Juicy Couture Vintage Love Bug Ring
6. House of Harlow 1960 Resin & Stone Crystal Ring
7. Rennes Small Pouch Wallet
8. Sarah & Bendrix You're Simply Wonderful Print

Design File: Sarah Pinto

Have you got your 2012 calendars and planners yet? I highly recommend these from Sarah Pinto. Last year I had one in this pattern and loved it. What I like about them (apart from the beautiful covers) is that the layout is clever and perfect for what I look for. I really like a daily calendar with enough space to write down your To-DO's and a monthly one to give you an overall scope of things.

Besides, and most importantly, by getting any of her products you'll be helping a good cause, Sarah's youngest son has a heart condition so she donates a portion of the proceeds from her products to the Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford. You can read more about her story here.

Blog Series: In my Makeup Bag

This week the super talented Anna of In Honor of Design is sharing her favorite makeup products with us. I'm pretty sure you already know who she is, but in case you don't you should add her blog to your daily reads (like I do) because she always has great stuff to share, she is genuinely kind and friendly, and she always finds time to get back to you with sweet words.

"I am pretty low maintenance when it comes to hair and make up. I think natural looks are always the most beautiful, so I try to keep things simple".

What's your current make-up bag?
I love a bag that has lots of organizational pockets :) So I use a  Mary Kay brushes and make up bag. It holds it all for me and wraps up easy to throw in my purse!

Is there a makeup product you're currently coveting?
Once in a while I like to wear a bold colored lipstick and I have been anxious to try some of Estee Lauder's! Also on the wishlist: Mac shadows and Butter London Nail colors.

Any tip, secret or random makeup thought:
I don't know if this is any secret, but I would say my number one tip is to take care of your skin! If your skin looks healthy, so does your make up. It will apply easier, and blend better for an overall better appearance. Also, eye primers are fantastic for holding your eye makeup on all day long! 

Any particular make-up trend that you're looking forward for fall? 
I am actually loving the bold lip colors and ombre eyeshadows. I usually go for either bold eyes or bold lips, but never together :)

How does your day makeup routine differs from your night time one?
Daytime consists of mascara, tinted moisturizer, and lip gloss. Its pretty simple since your morning routine has to be pretty quick when you have little ones. However, when I go out at night or on weekends, I use most of my products listed above. I take the time to apply smokey eyes or bold lips. But as my husband reminds me, a smile can be your best feature!

Get Anna's favorite products:
> Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush 
> Rimmel London SpecialEyes Eye Liner Pencil 
> Smashbox Photo Finish Bronzing Foundation Primer
> Mary Kay Brush Collection and bag
> Cover Girl LashBlast Volume Blasting Mascara
> Mary Kay Tinted Moisturizer
> Revlon Just Bitten Lip Satin + Balm
> e.l.f. Mineral Eye Shadow in Celebrity and Caffeinated

* Thanks Anna for letting us know what's in your makeup bag, loved reading about it!

Tips File: B-day Wishlist

This post is filed under "tips file" because I'm tipping my husband, though if you want to send me something I'll have no choice but to accept ;). My birthday is in 10 days and I can't be more excited to get to celebrate it in Miami (not in the bloody Island) with my two boys (husband and Matthew), mom, dad, one of my brothers, my in-laws, and friends! Now you know why I love September so much: Fall + Birthday = Happy days!

1. Karen Walker Number One Sunglasses
2. House of Harlow 1960 Cary Sunglasses
3. TOMS Black Canvas Women's Classics
4. The bed/stu Aunt bettie Boat Shoes
5. Garmin Forerunner 410
6. Beadycats Turquoise & Pink dyed Agate triple Ring
7. Toosis Spring Flower 3 stone ring
8. Toosis Three Stones ring
9. J.Crew Classic Jenna Bracelet
10. J.Crew Mini-link Bracelet
11. Jeffrey Campbell Brit Wrap Strap Booties or Rouge Wrap Strap Booties
12. Kate Spade Essex Scout 
13. Emily & Meritt Westward for Kate Spade Adventurer Satchel

Untitled Folder: 9/11

Image via Pinterest

Today is a very hard day for many so I just wish to those who unfortunately were affected by the tragedy that shocked the world 10 years ago, the strength and courage to keep on going, day by day, without their loved ones. You'll be in my prayers tonight.

Happy Weekend!

View of Hong Kong - 2009

I'm enjoying so much my time here in Florida that I barely have time to blog, so I apologize for my weak presence on the blogsphere, I hope you understand, life off The Island is precious! I also hope you like these links below:

> Beautiful sky waves

> Great words of wisdom

> A great recipe to kick off the fall, don't you think?

> Fabric as wallpaper

> Not your ordinary doughnut

> Create your own art work

Have a great weekend, and thanks for stopping by and commenting, you make me :)

Fashion File: Now & Later

I'm really into Chambray shirts and I love that there are so many great options everywhere, like this one, this one, and this one.  Aren't they super versatile? You can dress very casual or dressy (pair it with a sequin skirt?), that's why it's on my fall essentials list I just got this one.

1. Miu Miu Miniskirt
2. Cacharel Cuttler & GrossCircular Lens Sunglasses
3. H&M Necklace
4. With love from CA Boho Scarf Headband
5. Marc Jacobs Quilted Ginger Crossbody Bag
6. DV by Dolce Vita Dakota Sandal
7. Low Luv by Erin Wasson Metal Crystal Stud Earrings
8. TOPSHOP Three quarter sleeve Blazer
9. Cardigan
10. Christian Louboutin Dufferin Embellished Calf Hair Loafers
11. Chan Luu Olive Oil Scarf
12. D&G Leather and gaberdine Skinny Trousers
13. Ray-Ban Eyeglasses
Madewell Perfect Chambray Ex-boyfriend Shirt

Inspiration File: Layer-up!

Via Pinterest

Are you ready for fall? I am! Especially because I'll be spending two weeks (2 precious weeks that is) in Toronto in October, and I can't wait to layer up! Love the fall, is my favorite season!

 Via Thinking About Pretty via From Me To You

Via The Sartorialist

Via Pinterest

Via Hanneli

Via Autumn Fever

Via Pinterest

Babies & Kids: Sticky Tiki

How adorable are these fabric wall decals from New Zealand company Sticky Tiki? Not only they are reusable but wrinkle-proof and washable too! You can get them here.
Via Cool Hunting

Blog series: In my Makeup bag

Sharing her favorite products this week is Jessica from Life Done Properly. I love Jessica's attitude (she hates Black Friday's crowds as I do) and I haven't met anyone who rocks a pixie cut as she does! So if you haven't checked out her blog do so! 

Any tip, secret or random makeup thought: 
It's no secret, but lately my favorite tip is this: apply a small amount of white shadow or white eyeliner to the inside corner of your eye, near your tear duct. It really makes your eyes pop and appear bigger! 

What's your current make-up bag?
I typically buy my Estee Lauder products from whatever department store is offering a free gift with purchase at the time, so I literally have a garbage sack full of all shapes and sizes of cosmetic bags. When one starts to wear out, I change it, or if I am traveling I use whichever is most practical. Right now, I am using this United Colors of Benetton bag. I bought it forever ago, and it still looks great. 

How does your night time routine differs from your day time one?
I start every day with the same skin care regimen. I wash my face only with water in the morning. Before I apply my makeup, I apply a myriad of skincare products (toner, eye serum, skin illuminating serum, wrinkle lifting serum, and moisturizer.) I like to change up my eye and lip colors as often as I can, but if I'm in a hurry I usually just resort to a bronze shadow and brown liner, then finish with a light cream bronzer on my cheeks.
If I'm going out at night, I like spicing up the look by adding black eyeliner to create a smokey eye, and a splash of red tinted lipgloss. I wash my face every night with a good facial cleanser (never, ever, ever soap!), then apply the same skin tone illuminator and eye serums before bed. 

Any particular make-up trend that you're looking forward for fall?I am loving all of the bright color trends for fall; oranges, yellows, pinks, greens and even blues! I say if you can wear it in your clothes, you can wear it on your face! I am also looking forward to breaking out my warm golds, bronzes and reds.


Get Jessica's favorite products:
> MAC Eye Shadow in Woodwinked
> Estee Lauder Idealist Cooling Eye Illuminator
> MAC Powerpoint Pencil in Stubborn Brown
> MAC Fix + Some uses: "I spritz it on my eyeshadow brush to give my shadow creamy texture and intense pigmentation. I also spritz it all over my face to set my makeup. It gives my face a tingly and refreshed feeling. Can't beat it"
> Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator
> Estee Lauder Double Wear Mineral Rich Loose Powder
> Maybelline The Colossal Mascara In Glam Black

* Thank you so much Jessica for being part of the Makeup series ;)

Color File: Feeling (Navy) Blue

Lately I've been torn to navy, and I found these great products I really like. Hope you're having a great long weekend, I'm enjoying being in Miami a LOT! :)

Two: Tory Burch Classic Wool Felted Hat
Three: Anthropologie Valetta Bralette
Four: Anthropologie Color Pair Loafers * The beige ones are really nice too!
Five: Kate Spade Westward Wanderlust Satchel

My life File: Welcome to Miami

Via Pinterest via Etsy

And that's it.

PS: We arrived safe and sound sane to Miami, though pretty tired. Can I say that American Airlines is the worst airline out there? That last flight killed us!
PPS: Will be back later on today for a post ;)

Happy Weekend!

Via Pinterest via We Heart It

You know what that above is? An airplane? No no no, that's a time machine. I guess they are called airplanes when you travel within the same time zone, but when you go through multiple time zones they become time machines. You don't believe me?  I'll be leaving Saturday morning from Kone, I'll be up in the air for 3+12+6 hours plus some more hours at the airports, and (God willing) I'll arrive to Miami Saturday night. Isn't that what they call time traveling?

Anyway, I hope you have a great weekend labour day long weekend! Here are some links I would like to share:

> This is perfect for stay at home entertainment during the winter.
> Beautiful pens.
> I am in love with this place, would move in, in a second! See the whole tour here.
> I think I can watch this video over and over and over again.
> A pretty little night time set.
> I don't need convincing, but this interview is excellent.
> Cute.
> I'm pretty sure Constanza would have had this endorsed.

Fashion File: Airport Style

Well, by the time most of you read this I'll be on my way to the airport, YAY! Can't put on words how happy I am, and even though I'll be exhausted I'm pretty sure I'll tote a huge smile on my face ;)

1. Madewell Soft Scoop Tee
2. Debenhams Leopard Print Silk Scarf 
3. Icon Love your color necklace
4. Karen Walker Perfect Day Sunglasses
5. Day Birger et Mikkelsen Goat Suede Birch jacket
6. 7 for all Mankind Roxanne Jeans
7. Hermes Cape Cod Watch
8. Madewell The Leather Transport Tote
9. Madewell The Aberdeen Oxford

Trends File: Leather Shorts

Cupcakes and Cashmere

Loving leather shorts, BIG time.

Urban Outfitters

Atlantic Pacific

Via Pinterest

Via Your Mother Should Know

Photo by Hanneli

Madewell