{Shopping} 9 Must-Have Coats

Depending on where you live and how big a role winter-wear plays in your life, you'll know that January is the best time of year to pick up a new coat (or two). Sale season is in full swing, which means stocking up on cozy outerwear like it's going out of style... So to speak, of course. Right now I'm into fleshy tones, prints and basic blacks in the coat department, so when French Connection asked me to round up my favourite coats from their current (and reduced) collection, I couldn't help but narrow down my focus to those three categories. I find that pastel or camel outerwear generally take an outfit to the next level, while printed coats shine with bright pops of colour or complimentary prints. I save black coats for particularly crazy outfit days to minimize the amount of puzzled stares I generally get, or when a girl just needs a little something something to give the illusion of a slimmer silhouette... And considering that most of us just ate our weight in holiday treats, this last option is looking mighty appealing right about now.

From left, Flesh Forward: Neat Weave Zip Through Coat | Santorini Coat | Divine Dorothy Coat 
Prints Charming: Electric Checked Oversized Boucle Coat | Checked Bunny Coat | Penelope Pop Checked Coat
Basic Black: Ali Faux Fur Coat | Ombre Dustls Coat | Queen Coating Flared Coat


This post was sponsored by French Connection. All opinions shared are my own.

{Shopping Guide} Holiday Wishlist

The holidays can be a stressful time of year, but treating yourself a little now and then can go a long way in terms of keeping morale high amidst all the craziness. So when Southgate Centre asked me to make a holiday wishlist from their roster of retailers, it was a therapeutic process to say the least. Now I don't expect anyone to rush out and buy me an MK bag or iPad Air (you're officially off the hook, Mr. AiF), but it sure is fun to dream nonetheless. And in keeping with the whole 'treat yo' self' philosophy I seem to prescribe to, don't be surprised if you see a fun leopard clutch or bright red dress creep into posts during the weeks to come... Just saying.

Be sure to visit southgatecentre.com to make a holiday wishlist of your own � one lucky winner will walk away with their entire wishlist, up to $2,500! How's that for treating yourself?

This post was sponsored by Southgate Centre. All opinions shared are my own.

{Wardrobe Wednesday} Lips Rings

This Wardrobe Wednesday features a save or splurge component which doesn't quite apply to me because � let's face it � I had to go be all greedy and buy both. To be fair, I ordered the CC Skye version online before I knew Forever 21 carried a fun, Lulu Frost-inspired version for a fraction of the price. Woe is me. Regardless, I felt the need to have both. Because really, after shelling out over 100 big ones for a trend item, what's five more.

The verdict? Despite the aforementioned trend (read: fleeting) nature of the design, I actually much prefer the CC Skye version. It's smaller, more streamlined and far more flattering to wear, translating to 20x more use than it's inexpensive counterpart... So on a cost-per-wear basis, the CC Skye version is actually a way better deal, right? Oh come on, humour me.

In other news, congrats to Kirsten Butler for winning a copy of Alexa Chung's new book, "It" � Enjoy, girl! 

{Shopping} Three To Love

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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

For those of us who view shopping as a competitive sport (you know who you are), there's no greater thrill than getting lost in a great online store... Sometimes that involves pajamas and ice cream in bed (who said that?), while other times it means copious amounts of links sent to your bff in the middle of the night for a second option. I recently got lost on the Harrods website, discovering new-to-me labels and old, drool-inducing favourites. Right off the bat, I fell in love with their Pinko, McQ Alexander McQueen and Just Cavalli offerings, dreaming up outfits (as one does) and building quite the wish list (don't tell Mr. AiF!). Here are a few of my favourite combos � Let the shopping begin!


This post was sponsored by Harrods. All opinions shared are my own.
 

{Shopping Guide} Beachwear...

Nothing says summer quite like a trip to the beach, or better yet, some warm, tropical vacation where a cute bathing suit (and sunscreen!) is all you need. Nautical stripes, bold colours and strappy sandals make for the perfect summer uniform, so if you're in the market for some new duds this season, here's a roundup of a few items in particular that I'm coveting... Let the shopping begin!

1. Seaview Tie Front Halter Maillout by SeaFolly, $161

2. Pool Towel by SeaFolly, $53

3. Goddess Bandeau Bikini by SeaFolly, $92

4. Mali Ankle-Wrap Sandal by Miz Mooz, $89.95

5. Stripe Tote by SeaFolly, $51

6. Maui Ankle-Strap Sandal by Minnetonka, $49.95

7. Women's Jury Wedge Sandal by Dolce Vita, $84.95 

What pieces are you guys craving for summer? I wanna know! xx