Monday, April 30, 2012

Balancing act

Just because I would prefer to wear heels all the time, doesn't mean I don't understand the awesomeness of (some) sneakers. I'm definitely in favor of the old school sneakers, so I'm always happy to see some. As an added bonus, if you want to be (or appear to be) in the know in fashion, there are some sneakers you need to know about.

Photo from Jak & Jil

New Balance. You won't get anywhere without seeing them, they are going to be everywhere. Mark my words. The colours don't really matter, although this would be an excellent way to incorporate some colour into your wardrobe. Also, totally works for everyone.

Photo from NAP

Another, more fashion-y option (and considerably more expensive, if you go for the real deal) comes from Isabel Marant. They look a bit like the 90s Nike Air hightops and have a hidden platform. Good news is that if you really like them, there will be cheaper options available. H&M already made their version and I believe Aldo as well.

So, which ones are your favourites?

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Shoe love

Here they are, lined up and ready to go. I'm still not feeling 100% well, but getting better. I'm trying to at least get something off my massive to do list. So, this is it.


These are the ones I had upstairs. See, I did not include any flats. 

Ok, I didn't just take out my shoes and line them up. There's a purpose for this. I've been wanting to do some reorganizing in the entryway for a while, so we finally got a move on. This is step 1, so there's more to come. I'm really, really happy with the outcome already. I'll share more details later.

I'm going to go make some brunch and take it easy. Because that's what you're supposed to do on Sundays.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

What's up Montreal - Vintage mart spring sale

Remember when I mentioned the last vintage mart sale and how I found a great dress? If you don't, no worries, I just want you to know that the sale is on again!





It takes place over at the studio at 5445 De Gaspe. This time it's only open until 5pm Staturday. So, hurry up and go see what wonderful finds there are waiting for you!

All details HERE

Sorry for the late notice on this one! I've been getting sick with a cold, so I feel extra slow... I'll return to the blog once I feel a bit better.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Friday, April 27, 2012

Friday Inspiration

I've mentioned before, but I can't help it. Every time I see something ordinary or mundane transformed into something extraordinary, it gets me excited and inspired. This time it's a little more complex, but so amazing.

Photo from Plenty of Colour

Disco stairs. I bet the effect of these is even better coming down the stairs without noticing it and then all of a sudden it's like a disco ball exploded all over the place. I understand that might not be the most appealing verbal imagery out there, but the best I can do for now.

I would actually love to do this at home.

So, what's the verdict? Yay or nay for disco awesomeness?

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Batman in various Nordic languages

When I showed the Batman in Icelandic -thingy to Chris (see the post below if you missed the original), I was (once again) laughing too hard. He looks at me and the following conversation takes place:

C: "I see"
C: "so, what's Batman in Finnish then?"
Me: " ... "
Me: "... right..."
Me: *laughs even harder*

FIY: Batman in Finnish is "Lepakkomies"

These amazing shoes were found from Bat Blog (where else)


And as an added bonus, I do believe the Swedes call him "Läderlappen" Correct me if I'm wrong

Senjaku Candy Land

So, yesterday I had some errands to run. And by 'errands' I mean I had a 40% off coupon at Banana Republic (yes, I still dress pretty corporate (except when wearing band T-shirts, and even then it's with blazers)). After some major frustrations in the dressing room, I ended up buying flats. Now, they were very much needed. After I busted my knee, I've needed to resort to non-heeled shoes more often than before, so I've come to notice a gap in the shoe closet. Flats.

Let me tell you something: Flats are not counted as shoes. They are like socks, a necessary evil. I really don't like buying either. The list of necessary evils in the wardrobe are flats, underwear, socks and sports clothing. (I had to add "in the wardrobe" into the previous sentence, because if it just said necessary evils, the list would be too long and include things like dill* and sink strainers**) I hate shopping for any of those. These things are like toast for the wardrobe, when do you actually WANT toast? Seriously, you buy it every now and then and make sandwiches, but do you ever really crave toast?? No! 

(random comment: I read the paragraph and imagined powdered toast man sitting in a wardrobe. [/odd mental images])


I feel this might need explanation. (The shoe comment, not powdered toast man, who, I'm sorry to say, you should already know about.) Even though flats are technically "shoes" they don't count in the fun and exciting tally which is reserved for real shoes. Real shoes are mostly awesomely unpractical heels. Or in some cases also sneakers. But the only cases where sneakers = shoes are: 1) Adidas Superstars 2) funky-OMG-what-the-hell-were-you-thinking-coloured retro (this usually means 70s) -looking sneakers 3) some Converse Chuck Taylors, but only hightops and/or special edition, preferably both. (Ooh, Batman)

(Random comment 2: nananananana Leðurblökumaðurinn! I seriously laugh about 5 minutes Every.Friggin.Time!)

So, to conclude: if someone (in this completely imaginary situation, let's say, husband) asks me, how many pairs of shoes I have bought this month, I can say two (these and these) and not count the flats. See how it works?

Anyhow, since I had errands to run, Chris and I decided to have dinner in chinatown. Afterwards, we headed for the bus stop, but of course the bus just leaves when we are still across the street. Lucky for me (or unlucky if you are prone to count calories, which I certainly am not) there's a tiny little store next to the bus stop which sells all sorts of random goodies. I say random since I do not read Japanese. So when I happen to be in the neighbourhood, I often go browse in the store. I decided to buy something just based on the packaging.

Today's pick seems to be sailboat flavoured. 


Turns out that sailboats taste like cola. Score! If you want to know more about these delicious treats, check them out HERE.

All kidding aside, these things are amazing! They taste like sour cola candy. These are possibly my favourites of the Japanese candy I've tried so far. I'll start keeping an eye out for this company; Senjaku Candy Land.

* dill, because unfortunately (especially in Finland) you can't really get fish dishes without dill. Also, pickles often are accompanied with this heinous weed.
** sink strainers. I really, really hate emptying those things, but if you don't have them you have to unclog the sink which I really, really, really hate.


Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Statements

In attempt to make my wardrobe more interesting, I've started experimenting with jewelry. I've always loved earrings and bracelets and have been wearing those for a log time, however, necklaces have been a bit more tricky. I've worn some, sure, but more as an afterthought that anything else.


Photo from Polyvore

I received a few bolder necklaces as gifts recently and started with those. Then I happened to find a pretty funky Guess by Marciano necklace at a local thrift store. I figured I can invest the whopping $8 on a statement necklace and see if I'll learn wear it. I wore it with a black t-shirt under a dark blazer and it worked surprisingly well! So, I figure that slowly but surely, I'll give this whole accessorizing thing a try...

Do you have trouble with accessorizing or is it easy for you?


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Stamps, postage and seals

Yesterday I was working with even more stamps. I had some still that were on paper, so what else there is to do than to start soaking them off.


For some reason I always find the paper the stamps come off of very pretty. I think it's the combination of partial postage stamps, security patterns and old handwriting that makes them so pretty... I have to think of something to make of these. I want to save the feeling of the really old envelopes and corners of postcards, yet make something useful and fun out of them. (And you wonder why I need to reorganize my work space all the time... (Or you probably didn't wonder at all))

Monday, April 23, 2012

Sunday, April 22, 2012

New photos

Remember when I was talking about buying a new lens for my camera a few weeks ago? I did quite a bit more research and finally decided to go for it. I finally received the lens on Friday and been trying it out a bit. I've been busy this weekend, so I've only had time for a few shots, but so far it seems good.



This is an unedited photo of George (and my hand). I really needed on for product photos for the shops ( here and here), but would love to get better at portraits as well. So far, it seems that this is performing well on both accounts. I'll definitely do some more testing. Hopefully I'll learn a few things along the way too!

In your opinion, what's the one thing everyone should know about taking good photos?

Saturday, April 21, 2012

What's up Montreal - Vintage Yard Sale

Picture from Lost Vintage

Saturday April 21st and Sunday April 22nd, from 9:30am to 4pm both days; "the one and only Verdun's container war". I'm not exactly sure what that means, but it does sound pretty interesting. There will apparently be 4 containers full of vintage goodness.

1621 Rue De Gladstone corner of Angers, 10 minutes from Jolicoeur metro. This is also going on next weekend, April 28th and 29th. Same place, same time. I won't be able to make it this weekend, but if you go, please let me know how it was!

More details HERE!

Friday, April 20, 2012

Friday Inspiration

By now, you know my love for colour coded things. So, imagine my happiness (and a few involuntary squees of joy) when I found plenty of colour!


It's a Vancouver based blog devoted to colour. Obviously I'm drawn to the neatly organized, strictly colour coded posts. Seriously, how could you not absolutely adore seeing all of Queen Elizabeth's outfits from one year organized in order by colour. My inner organizing nerd is ecstatic!


Both pictures from plenty of colour

Thursday, April 19, 2012

What's up Montreal - m0851 Sample sale

m0851 is a Montreal based company that specializes in high quality leather, wool and cashmere products. They make bags, outerwear and accessories.

Photo from m0851

The sample sale starts tomorrow and goes on until 5PM on Sunday. You can find it at 5555 Ave. Casgrain, suite 201 (corner of St. Viateur) See more details HERE.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Back to black

I actually started a wardrobe overhaul some time ago. I did have a lot of clothes, yet nothing to wear. I used to go by the "more is more" approach with my clothes, shoes and accessories for quite a while. And to afford that, I also went for quantity, not quality. I assume that's a very common approach and I still understand why it's so appealing. It's nice to have a extensive wardrobe.

Nonetheless, I did rethink this philosophy some time ago and have been slowly (painstakingly slowly) building a good collection of things to wear. I'm nowhere near finished, but at least I can see some progress.

I try periodically to review everything I have and try to figure out what I still need. I just came to a realization that was quite unexpected. I figured I was doing pretty well and then realized I'm missing some definite basics. Like black shoes. I have one pair of black shoes, they're square-toed with a gold buckle. Very basic and work appropriate. But that's it.

How is it possible for a self-proclaimed shoe-addict like myself to have ONE pair of black shoes? This should be remedied immediately! (What do you mean "looking for an excuse for shoe shopping"?)

Top row from here
bottom row here, here and here

These are some of the shoes I've been thinking about. The top row are all Christian Louboutins (From left Lady Lynch, Pigalle and Rolando) and the bottom row from Fendi, YSL and Brian Atwood. I haven't quite decided what I want yet, but I think I need to go try some of these on. I'm now leaning towards to CLs, just because they are very basic. The ones from Fendi and YSl are gorgeous, but to be honest, they are both on my all time favourite shoes list, so I might want to get them in a funkier colour or material... I love my blue suede Brian Atwood's, but for basic black pumps, I might skip the peeptoe.

I do think a really good pair of black shoes should be the next thing on my list... (notice the key word "should". There's always a good chance I fall for a pair that's not practical at all...)

If you are at all curious to other things on my "I wish" list, you can check out my board "the (imaginary) shopping list" on Pinterest.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

stamp-a-licious

In the last few days I've been concentrating on stamps. I've made sheets and sheets of stamp stickers from used stamps and am actually running out soon.

Click on the photo or HERE to see the selection in the shop

I have some stamps (7000 to be specific) in the mail making their way here, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed they will arrive soon...

Monday, April 16, 2012

The ultimate utensil(s)

Let me introduce to you: the kung foon spork!

Photo from lifehacker

It does everything! (Also, it has nothing really to do with anything. I just wanted to share. And say kung foon spork)

(yes, I say it out loud)

Sunday, April 15, 2012

J'accuse

What a wonderful feeling to come home late at night to this disapproving face


"What? You woke me up AND didn't bring me anything? You shall pay for this you mortal!"

Montreal at night

Last night we went out for a few drinks and for once I had the camera with me. I've talked about wanting to learn how to take better photos. As a part of that learning process I've realized that having the camera with you makes this task infinitely easier...

Anyhow, very eerie feeling walking back late at night.


Second hand

I've made some amazing finds recently. Like I mentioned, lace if one of those trends I would like to try out. As it so happened, I found this top from a second hand expedition recently. It's a good way for me to try out wearing lace, without making a significant investment. And, as an added benefit, I get to try out the upcoming 90's trend too (yeah, the 90's are coming)

At least for me Kookai is very 90's as a brand. I associate it to that time period and used to be a fan. Is it just me? Anyone else?


So, after $5 and some cleanup, I'm good to go.

What do you think? (not just of the top, but the photos too. I've complained before how hard taking photos of clothing is. Any comments or tips?)

Saturday, April 14, 2012

What to wear now, part deux

These are trends that will work in real life and I believe will be useful even after something new replaces them.

I can't, in any possible way, call myself trendy. I just don't have that flair it takes to really be on trend or even fashionable. But, I still follow fashion (quite intently actually) and sometimes try a few trendier things. So, continuing from my first post on the topic, I figured I'd try putting together ideas that I, and I guess anyone like myself, could try out. These are actually things I really want to test out in practice.

Crazy pencil skirts

Pencil skirts have always been my favourite kind of a skirt. It works for my body type and it has that subtle pin-up vibe to it. I would absolutely love to find a few funky ones. This fad might be gone soon, but I think these are pieces I could wear for quite a while after. This is, of course, if I could find pencil skirts that fit properly...

Photos from Vogue UK (Prada) and Style.com (Stella McCartney)

Where did this come from? For me at least, there's two places where the idea solidified in my head, Prada  SS11 (that's the one with the crazy banana prints and the now infamous creepers) and Stella McCartney RTW 2011.

Lace

Oddly girly for my regular taste, but I can't help it. I've seen it everywhere and I really would love to try it.  I found a Kookai black lace top a little while ago from a second hand shop, so at least I have a start. I am on the hunt for a skirt or even a dress...

Photos from Style.com

Where did this come from? 3.1 Phillip Lim resort 2010. When I saw that black lace skirt... I was done. I still think about it.

So, what do you think? Are you trying out or already over these trends?

Friday, April 13, 2012

Friday the 13th

I'm not particularly superstitious. I've never really believed that Friday the 13th would be a particularly unlucky day (except for the templars back in the day, or so the story goes). I actually think I got proof of that (superstitions, not templars), since Thursday the 12th seemed to be unlucky for me.

And by 'unlucky' I mean I was being extra clumsy.

The day started very early in the morning, around 3am when the lamp I have on my nightstand fell on me. No biggie, you might think to yourself. Maybe not, until you see the lamp:

Photo from here

It's hard (and surprisingly sharp) plastic. I don't know how it happened (most likely the huge pile of books on the nightstand finally fell. Or the cats went a little nuts), but I have not only one, but two cuts on my forehead. From a lamp-attack no less. Nice.

I screwed up my knee recently (not on Thursday the 12th) but it has slowly been getting better. Naturally something happened to it yesterday and it hurt a lot more than it had in the last few days. I don't even know what I did. I bend down to take the laundry out of the dryer and felt like my knee exploded. (which leads me to the swift conclusion that I should stop doing laundry)

And finally, to top off the day, I stabbed myself with a pencil. Not on purpose though. I was laying down to rest my knee (with a puzzle book, hence the pencil (I told you I'm a nerd)) and somehow managed to stab myself on my right palm with it.

Stellar job!

What's your take on Friday the 13th? Lucky? Unlucky? Makes no difference?

Friday Inspiration

You can't call me minimalistic under any circumstances, I often go for the more is more approach (see, I call keeping stuff an "approach". That makes it acceptable and quirky, eccentric at most (rather than sloppy or weird)).

Anyhow, this doesn't mean I don't appreciate the simplistic view on things. In fact, I quite admire this. So, for this week's inspiration post I would like to share something pretty awesome with you!

These are simple, clutter free desktops. I just love them.



This last one is the one we're using right now


All pictures from Simple Desktops

P.S. There's some really amazing ones in either brighter colours or black. I just couldn't show them here because they looked out of place with all the whiteness here... (Can you say first world problems?)

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Marni shoes


I'm so excited I finally got them. I have to confess that I've been wanting these shoes for a long while now... It's been close to a year soon since I first saw them. This is one of those pairs that I saw and knew belonged onto my shoe shelves (yes. I have shoe shelves). I mean, they are like made for me. The contrasting piping and the 5.5 inch heel... What's not to love!



*swoon*

I will absolutely wear these all day!

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

They're here!

Look what Mr. Postman brought me today!




What's in it?

(Sorry about the vagueness! I just had to share! I'll be back later with proper photos!)

Mail love

I have to give props to my post office ladies. They do not raise their eyebrows when I present them with the latest pile of mail to sort and stamp. In fact, they are starting to comment on my progress in making the mail look different. It's great!


EDIT: Let's give credit where credit's due... My regular post office is on St. Laurent, Pharmaprix #1800. The regular ladies there rock!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Photos and cameras and lenses, oh my

Hi everyone!

How's life?

I have a question for you peeps.

I'm doing some research on buying a new lens for my camera. I have a basic Canon Rebel XSi and looking into expanding my arsenal a bit. I'm really concentrating on portrait and (due to my necessarily detailed product photography) quite a few closeups, but don't want to invest a huge deal at this point.

Photo from DPreview

I've heard great things of the Canon EF 50mm f1.8 II Lens, especially for portraits. Generally this one seems to respond pretty well to what I'm looking for at this point. (Let's not forget that the price leaves something for the shoe budget too...) Have you tried it? Is it as good as everyone says?

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Bunnies!

Happy Easter to those who celebrate it and a Merry long weekend to those who don't!

Picture from Daily Squee

May the easter bunny be ever in your favor!

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Suede and glitter

I must've mentioned my love for shoes. I've been extremely good recently and haven't bought any in a while. In fact, the only ones I've bought this year were the ones I needed for winter outdoor activities (I bought a very basic pair of Sorels on sale, nothing interesting).

Until now, that is.

2 Pairs in the last two days. One pair is on their way to me and I'll show you once they get here. The other... well, here you go:


I don't know if I ever mentioned this but I have pretty big feet. In a world full of 7s and 8s, being a 10 can be tough (shoe size, not looks). But, the good news is that sometimes you can really find some treasures. Like Thursday.

I've been wanting a pair with some glitter, so these work perfectly. A (rather direct) reference to the Miu Miu glitter shoes from fall 2011 but with a fraction of the price. I figured this is definitely a pair that will make it's money's worth in number of wears. I paid 20 bucks... Last pair in the store. These guys are by Kimchi Blue and are perfect for the season.

Now, I'm just waiting for the other pair to arrive. Those ones are something I've been lusting after for quite a while...

So, found any good shoes recently? What do you think of mine?

Friday, April 6, 2012

Friday Inspiration

This lady pretty much sums up what I wrote about a few days ago

Photo form Moi Contre la Vie

The photo's from LFW and looks effortless yet very put together. Very nice!

Thursday, April 5, 2012

on the crafting desk

I really like old tin boxes. I have several that I use for, well, anything really. This one is my craft stuff to go -box.


Do you do this? Collect old tin boxes like this? It can't just be me...


Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Thriftastic


I've actually gone second hand hunting three times in a week and found something interesting every time. I still don't really know how to take good photos of clothing without someone in them, so you now get to see what I found on trip number 2.


A totally awesome tie! It's actually Yves Saint Laurent, so not a bad score. It's one of those uber-wide ties and the colours are just too cool. Chris won't wear this (not that I really expected him to) so I'm trying to figure out what to do with it. There's two options; either A) sell it or B) upcycle it into something even more awesome. I'd better think about this a bit.


Watchmen comic books. Laugh all you want, old school comic books are awesome. Besides, these are the originals from the mid 80s, which means they might just be worth a few bucks.

Any ideas on how to take reasonable photos of clothing still welcome. Also, what did you think of the finds?

P.S. if this would be the first post you read, I believe I would come across as a hipstertastic comic book nerd.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

What to wear now

So, I read a lot of fashion related materials. If I were an trendy person, this is what I would wear right now:

1. Printed pants, especially floral

Seriously, the printed pants have been around for a while now, but you still have time to be fashionable if you act now. Get floral pants a.s.a.p!
Runner up: patterned or colourful pants. Not the hight of trendiness any longer, but you'll still look stylish. Extra bonus points if your pants resemble pyjama pants or are pale mint green.


2. Neon

Keep it to a minimal though. It came with a bang and goes easily overboard. Get a neon purse or a belt. On a budget? nail polish or a piece of jewelry, like a bangle.
Runner up: bright colours in tiny splashes

3. Scarf prints

Best bet would be a button down shirt, preferably slightly sheer. (Didn't this try to break in a few years ago, but didn't get much further than a few dresses?)
Runner up: old school scarves

4. Peplum

Get a top with a peplum hem, wear it with everything.
Runner up: scalloped hems and other details

5. Metallic cuffs

This would be best around your neck, but if that isn't your thing, around your ankles. Wrists work too if that's all you can find, as long as you're wearing one on each.
Runner up: friendship bracelets (yes, still)

Also, keep in mind colour blocking and mixing prints.

One step ahead? Tone on tone outfits.

Photo Chloe S/S2012 from here

P.S. don't forget, your pants need to be either skinny and too short or optionally wide and too long!

What's up Montreal - Ben & Jerry's free cone day

Huomio suomalaiset lukijat! Free cone Stadissa Kampissa ja Espalla kuulemma...

It's time for some ice cream! It's free cone day at Ben & Jerry's and it's not just in Montreal.

Picture from Ben & Jerry's


Monday, April 2, 2012

Inventory

What better way to start the week than doing an inventory of finished products?



I've recently reorganized the entire crafts section of the apartment, the desk, the storage and all the materials. However, the next step is to go through the finished items. I have a bit of a stock of finished products, already packed and ready to ship. However, I also have a selection "almost there" products. This means envelopes missing the address labels, stationery sets without the envelope seals or generally just items I haven't yet had a chance to pack. So, that's what I'll start the week with.

How has your week started off?

Sunday, April 1, 2012

The hardships of fashion bloggers

I can honestly say, this is something I never thought about. I found some really awesome clothes on my secondhand explorations and I wanted to show you guys. But, how do you take photos of clothes so they look even remotely like they do in real life? Seriously, I can't figure it out.

A little help here, please?