5 MUST HAVE BEAUTY PRODUCTS FOR WINTER 2019/2020

We all know how brutal Canadian winters can be, it’s about time we start prepping and switching beauty routines for our skin, hair and hands for the winter. We have to ensure that our hair, skin and hands are hydrated, moisturized and glowing even on the most coldest of days . To ensure you have the right items in our bags and vanity, I’ve complied the top 5 best beauty products to have for the upcoming winter without breaking the bank……..

Lush Sleepy Body Lotion $10

If you aren’t aware of the store that is lush, where have you been ??

Lush's Sleepy Body Lotion is a huge best-seller, loved by all from your favourite influencer to  skin-care experts, and consumers alike. It is designed to comfort your skin throughout the winter months.   Its best used at nights to give your skin a lovely smoothness in the morning. With ingredients like lavender and Tonka perfume , that eases you with its scent and then cocoa butter and almond oil to keep the skin hydrated and soft  all day or night long. 

Lush Super Balm  Scalp Treatment $ 25

This is a treatment I believe everyone can use, regardless of your hair type. This scalp treatment is extremely soothing, with coconut oil and candelilla, chamomile , this calms and soothes the scalp and helps with softening dried and flaky buildup on our scalps. Everyone will find relief after using this treatment

The Ordinary  100% Organic Rose Hip Seed Oil $

This is the best natural alternative for creams, lotions , hydrators that we use. The ordinary’s rose hip seed oil contains fatty acids, which are beneficial when it come s to hydrating the skin and keeping the skin plumper. This helps to improve the look f dry patches we sometimes get in the winter. It’s perfect for the colder months because it’s not greasy and it works for all skin types..

Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizers

This is a must have for the upcoming winter months. We all know with the cold months comes flu and its best to have some hand sanitizers   Bath and body works (BBW as I like to call it ) always has nice scented sanitizers that does the job of keeping the germs away. There’s always a sale going on usually 5 for $7 . They always have a new collection every season. So you guys should go check it out .

Lush Pumpkin Spice Lip scrub  $ 11

Pumpkin spice isn’t only for your favourite Starbucks drinks, This lip scrub with its warming cinnamon and softening pumpkin seed butter is the best for keeping the  lips moisturized  and soft.  With ingredients such as gardenia, ginger, pumpkin spice, use this to scrub away the dead skin and be left with luscious looking lips.

Mario Badescu Facial spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater

Mario Badescu’s facial spray with aloe and rosewater is a refreshing and hydrating product that I believe everyone should have in their bags or on their vanity. This product is packed with incredible ingredients that gives the skin an instant refreshment and hydration especially in the winter months. This can also be used on hair as well. This is a staple item .

“V” is for Volunteer

Why you should volunteer for Toronto Fashion Week - and what to bring!

Tips for a successful - and less stressful - Fashion Week

If you hope to make it in the fashion industry, you should consider volunteering for special events, like Toronto Fashion Week. Clocking volunteer hours is a great way to gain experience and elevate your resume. Also, paid gigs are scarce, especially for a current student or fresh graduate. So offering free labor may be your best option to getting your foot through the door. Volunteering for fashion shows is also a great trial run for anyone who’s considering heading down the production route. It’s never a terrible idea to make sure you truly are cut out for a fast-paced career such as this. (You’d be shocked how few, if any, souls return for some of the most important fashion events because they found it...a little challenging.) Many industry magnates attend events like this, and meeting them will help you establish important connections you can tuck up your sleeve for future employment. And best of all? YOU GET TO WATCH FREE FASHION SHOWS!

If you’re heading to the track (runway track, that is) you’ll need some riding gear. Consider wearing something with a few deep pockets, as they are your best friends while running around. If you don't have any, or you’re pocket-less outfit was too gorgeous to swap out (we’ve all been there), a small cross-body or fanny pack works too, but a bag may get in your way. Limit your luggage because volunteer lounge areas aren't always secure. The less you have, the easier it is to keep all your things with you. And with that, here are the top five things you should always bring to Fashion Week:

1. Event pass (duh). When you work your first shift, you’ll be given an event pass. Do not lose this. It is your key to gaining access to all those exclusive V.I.P. areas.

2. Phone and charger (double duh). If you didn’t post it on Instagram, did it really happen? Of course, don’t let the Gram distract you from what you came there to do. Be productive! (But also - do it for the Gram, fam!)

3. Debit or credit card (in case the pizza disappears before you get a slice). While this may thwart your plan to avoid those fab finds at the pop-up shop, you may need an impromptu snack. Plus, volunteers are like vultures. By the time news reaches you that the pizza has arrived, it will have already left the building!

4. Energy bar, or another compact snack. If you’re one of the smart ones who likes saving money, you could also bring your own snacks. I suggest protein or granola bars as they are flat and easy to slip into your pockets.

5. A winning attitude. Fashion Week can be stressful, especially for all of the event planners, designers, models...basically everybody in attendance! So learn to grin and bear it, and don’t take any yelling that may come to heart.

PROVE LITER FREAKS GUILTY

PROVE ‘LITER FREAKS’ GUILTY.

DID YOU KNOW MAJOIRTY OF THIS LAZY POPULATION IS A ‘LITER FREAK’?

Letting go of garbage out of your hands being unaware of what your location is, is beyond easy using the “I don’t care” attitude. But it is also very scary if you think about what happens to the environment with that garbage after. According to an article on “Conserve Energy Future”, more than 98% of the world’s population this world liter everyday over the streets. Physically hurting the environment, leaving streets dirty. Not only does it destroy and completely pollute the nature but also ruins animal habitats, increases chances of injuries, and allows higher chances of anyone catching a disease. Empty food packaging and empty bottles are not the only things that are thrown out on the roads, things like glass, metal and a lot more has been seen too. Although there are waste collectors who are given jobs to clean our environment it does not allow anyone to make a greater mess after it being collected. These jobs are given to look after our environment not to clean up after anyone’s mess. This issue also effects our fashion industry however our fashion industry has taken a step further into using “garbage” and applying it into items such as using plastic in raincoats, plastic purses etc.

Trash could be held on to just like any other shopping bags, drinks and the biggest addiction in this world, our phones. Trash bins are plotted everywhere it does not take an hour or more to come across one to throw your used things in. It is also very important to be sure what bin you’re using for your garbage items and recycling items; it is not hard to choose when majority of the bins are color coordinated for you to choose which bin to throw which item in. 

Littering should be given a stop too and should be repeatedly reminded to the ‘liter freaks’ every day. Throwing your trash and avoiding littering should become a priority to everyone. Although the change might not be noticed fast, a little difference is a huge step. Eventually, this world is only going to be covered with trash which is not healthy for our population today, along with the coming generations. The things that are tossed around on the ground could possibly contain chemicals that could be very toxic, a highly toxic example could be batteries. Throwing your garbage will only decrease the pollution and increase the amount of greenery around ourselves within the environment. Just by looking at a clean environment will make a huge difference within people’s living, behaviour and build a safer environment that we share with the wild life

Layered for the Winter GODS: 5 tips to keep yourself stylish and warm in the winter

When it comes to the freezing winter we all know the struggles of trying to look “fresh off the runway” without compromising our limbs to frostbite. Trust and believe when I say I understand the pain and agony of the everyday sacrifice because I single handed endured these sacrifices myself, but enough of me because these next five tips to keep yourself stylish and warm in the winter will blow you away. So without further ado let's get into these wonderful tips to help you survive winter.

(1) Heat-tech clothing
We've all heard of thermal clothing items like tights, long sleeves, and etc., but if you haven’t its “apparel, worn to protect the body in extreme cold to conserve body heat”. In recent months clothing brands have been coming up with ways to change the thermal game and give it and ultimate upgrade, since the clothing item under clothes can make for a frumpier appearance. Companies have recently put out Heat-tech clothing one specific company to do so is Uniqlo they describe it as “A revolutionary fabric that works with your body to generate heat and retain it”.so to break it down the product can now be worn as the essential clothing item instead of under sweaters it can be the sweater or long sleeve. This tip will be a wondrous way to mix style and warmth going through the winter.

(2) Poncho scarves
When it comes to neck scarves ideally many people believe that it's fine to use regular rectangle scarves to keep themselves warm while still looking like a fashionista, but truth be told poncho scarfs are much more efficient; its purpose as a material is an “outer garment constructed to manage body warmth”. Unfortunately, many people are still cautious when it comes to ponchos reasons may be due to it looking ugly in past styles or designs, but ponchos like any other cloth can be styled with the right accessories for outfits. Brands like Simons have already started to advertise stylish new poncho collections. So this winter try something new and use this tip to create a warm and stylish winter.

(3) (Sock) Leg Warmers
Throughout the years we have seen a big transition for leg warmers, in terms of the design, style, comfortability, and etc. So while going into winter I find that it's essential for many people. But this tip mainly leans towards women/girls. Leg warmers are worn to “keep the bottom legs warm in colder weather”, many people have avoided leg warmers because the frumpiness of the design, however Amazon online cite has created designs that are almost sock like. Now instead of wearing leg warmers that look frumpy on top of your boots you can buy leg warmers that look like socks, and function as socks would but instead have the warmth and comfort of regular warmers. So to keep your legs warm and chic this winter try this tip and wear sock leg warmers.

(4) Turtleneck Sweaters
This next item has been the number one essential of winter since decades before. Sweaters are worn all winter long, but when it comes to warm, comfort, and style sense turtleneck sweaters bring another level of both. “Protection has been the turtleneck's aim since being created” however that not all, sure turtleneck sweaters are able to give comfort but it also provides a mix both fashion and comfort. When it comes to sweaters the necks are always unseemly and frumpy but with turtleneck sweaters it adds a touch of sophistication. This winter get protection and fashion from your turtleneck sweaters.

(5) Knit hats 
Finally, the last tip/item on the list knit hats, this list wouldn't be complete if we didn’t have an accessory. Hats usually worn in the winter time are either ski, or pomp pomp hats. But those hats never get the job done, especially when it comes to protection and style, eventually your head is freezing from the wind or snow. However, knit hats come in different styles and colors so it has both chicness and comfort to survive you the winter time. Try a new look this winter by adding a bit of style with your knitted hats.

Going Wild for Animal Print

As 2019 comes around and progresses into its final quarter, we can look back and see that with it, the year has brought us some key trends as the state of fashion and style continue to progress and evolve. Whether it be the continued popularity of athleisure, the mainstream addition of neo-goth style, or even the rise of boiler suits and work wear, we can see that 2019 has been “interesting” for fashion in the least. One trend however that sticks out is the addition of animal print to many people wardrobe.

While never really being a “dead” trend in the fashion world, animal prints have certainly taken a back seat to the neutral/earth tones, hyper-branding prints and the black/grey monotone palettes in recent years. Today however, colorful, bold, or textured pieces of animal print garments are now staples to many fashionistas closets. Be it a tiger striped blouse, cow hair boots, or a scaly snake print bag, the range of animal prints is quite apparent, and they can be styled according to what the wearer is looking for. Able to be dressed up or down, the versatility is there within these pieces making it less of a seldom worn statement piece.

The most popular pattern that has emerged for the animal prints, is clearly the cheetah spots pattern. Seen on casual button-up shirts and trousers, it is definitely there to make a statement and spice up an outfit. Cheetah print pairs extremely well with darker, neutral colors like black and grey and could be that bold color used to add a needed color pop to an otherwise monotonous outfit. It is not necessarily a casual piece that can’t be dressed up. Versatility is definitely one of this patterns benefits. Seen in everything from Saint Laurent Paris dresses and loafers to an R13 Overcoat, cheetah print is absolutely something that could be worn on a night as well.

One of the more interesting patterns to rise up from the animal print trend, is the introduction of cow hair and cow printed garments. Rising with the accompaniment of “cowboy culture”, cow hair is certainly an unusual trend, but not an unwelcomed one. Seen on pieces from companies like Palace, KENNEL&SCHMENGER and even Burberry , the cow hair textured pattern has been adopted by many brands. Unlike cheetah print, cow hair print is not as easy to wear of a pattern as other swatches, however, this print is an excellent option for someone who likes to takes risks with their wardrobe, while also keeping on trend and keeps relevant to today’s pop culture. Mainly used on boots, cow hair print can be styled with an all denim look if one really wants to capture the essence of the current “cowboy culture” or even as a statement shirt worn under a blazer to add a very unique pattern to a normally boring suit or outfit.

While most animals prints were not as popular as they are now and some new ones have even been introduced, one pattern that has remained almost timeless and has been a regular addition to most wardrobes, is the snakeskin print. Coming from mostly accessories like handbags and heels on females and loafers and belts on males, snakeskin in garments has definitely evolved with this trend. Seen on shirts from Alexander Wang, to full dresses from Roberto Cavalli, to even sneakers from Golden Goose and Nike, the range of this pattern is apparent and shows that this iconic print is still alive and well. Being able to be worn on suits with accessories and casually as staples to on outfit, the classic snakeskin print is extremely easy to pair with outfits for all occasions, one can confidently bet that snakeskin is not only a very on trend piece, but will not be going anywhere anytime soon.

Toronto’s Thrifting Treasure Hunt: “Sustainable fashion around the city for every wardrobe and every style.”

With the growing concern of humans environmental impact on our planet consumers are looking more and more to add sustainability to their wardrobe. This can be challenging for some, as they dig through rows and rows of hand me down clothes, and still don’t find the piece they are looking for. As the fashion consumer starts to move more towards sustainability it doesn’t mean they want to sacrifice quality and fashionability. In the this quintessential guide I will break down Toronto’s best vintage stores and discuss the pieces they specialize in to help make your wardrobe pop this winter.

I Miss You Vintage 

Ossington Strip

I miss you vintage is a little different from it’s counterparts. The other aforementioned stores are essentially an amalgamation of every possible vintage item in every category from various brands. I Miss You Varies because it is a heavily curated designer vintage clothing store split into men’s and women’s. Thus meaning they specialize in high end consignment and vintage. This spot is great if you want to add a rare designer piece to your wardrobe, but don’t want to spend the big bucks and still want to be sustainable. They carry pieces such as archive Rick Owens, Comme des Garcons Homme Plus, Haider Ackermann, and Gucci. The selection is impeccable and you will be surprised every time you step inside (I promise!). For the winter season I would suggest checking out some of their extensive selection of coats!

In Vintage We Trust   

Parkdale

In Vintage We Trust is possibly one of the best vintage stores in the world. The immense attention to detail by the owners Josh and Chantal is what really sets them apart. They focus mostly on vintage sportswear from brands such as Nike, Adidas, Champion etc. On top of the sportswear they also somehow manage to find the coolest and obscure vintage t-shirts I’ve ever seen. The sheer volume of rare pieces they obtain is quite special. They release all their new finds every Wednesday with most of it selling out the same day. Might I also add the organization in this store is every neat persons dream. Each item is categorized by brand and the type of clothing from said brand, folded neatly in it’s respected section. This winter if you are looking for the perfectly faded and worn in Nike hoodie, Champion crewneck or a rare 80’s Nike windbreaker this is the spot for you. Just be sure to act quickly or you will miss out!

Exile Vintage 

Kensington Market

What can I say about Exile Vintage other then that its huge. The store itself feels like warehouse when you walk in. Although it’s a little overwhelming, the vintage smell and comforting staff that greets you when you enter make it feel like home. This store specializes in vintage from the 70’s and 80’s. This winter if you are tired of bland fitting black pants this store is perfect for you. They have a wide array of vintage funky 70’s trousers with cropped, flared, and wide fits. The plus about this is the trousers are generally heavyweight wool and perfect for winter. Exile also has a great selection of vintage denim from Lee To Levi’s, in every colour and style. Also for the winter season they have variety of chunky wool knits, perfect for layering and to keep you comfy and warm.

Queen St West Vintage 

Queen St West

This store is actually run by the same owners of Black Market Vintage on Queen St West. This is their second location, but this one differs because it is a little more organized and curated. I won’t lie this store can be a bit hit or miss, but I have found some of my favourite vintage pieces in my wardrobe from here. It consists or every type of men’s and women’s clothing from the yesteryears, but at one of the fairest price points in the city. For example and perfect for winter, they have vintage varsity jackets for $40 dollars! I also can’t forget to mention one of the best parts is that they have vintage tee’s for only 10 bucks. I have seen similar pieces to ones in this store being sold for double the prices at other Toronto vintage clothiers. Although this store is less curated then others mentioned and you really have to search for that great piece, it has most definitely earned it’s spot on this list.

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Last Minute Gift Ideas to Shake Up the Holidays

Last Minute Gift Ideas to Shake up the Holidays

The Holidays for some, are a blessing and a curse, the light at the end of the tunnel. After these last few exams you are free to spend time with your family, shamelessly binge Netflix (not like we don’t already) and take some needed time away from those dreadful 8 a.m. classes. With school finally off your mind, you now have some time to get your loved ones some gifts that are will help pave a greener future.

The Ordinary Skincare Products – Who doesn’t like healthy looking skin? The Ordinary offers a wide range of essential products that can be easily added to anyone’s skincare routine. Of my favourite things about The Ordinary – aside from them being 100% cruelty free – is the price. It can be hard gift shopping on a student’s budget, but The Ordinary products tend to be on the lower end for skincare. A great gift that won’t have your special someone contemplating selling textbooks early when it’s time to replenish. You can shop The Ordinary range here: theordinary.com

Aluminum Straws – Within a blink of the eye, the plastic straw seemed to vanish from most major retailers and were replaced by sinister paper straws or nitro lids that have you chugging your frap. If you know someone struggling with these gimmicky “solutions”, then we have the perfect gift idea for you. Aluminum straws will bring back enjoyment to sipping iced coffees or avoiding your lip stick from getting ruined with the turtle’s wellbeing still in mind. Sets start from $5 and can be easily found online. A cheap and easy gift idea that will help reduce single use plastics.

Telfar Tote Bag – One walk down Queen St. west will have you saying, “backpack who?” Tote bags have taken over as the main accessory to hold your precious $200 film studies textbook. Help upgrade that canvas tote to a sustainable, 100% Vegan Leather bag from Telfar. Starting at $140, Telfar bags are all that. It’s chic, it’s eco-friendly, and it will change the way you look at bags. Shop Telfar here: shop.telfar.net

Organic Basics – Everybody needs some basics in their wardrobe. However, going in 2020, those 4 pack Hanes tees don’t cut it anymore. Ranging from $39 - $94, Organic Basics products makes a great gift to anybody, seriously. Many of us don’t think twice about investing in a high quality basic that not only feels good but will make you feel good knowing it’s made from 100% recycled materials and manufactured ethically. Grab your set here: Organicbasics.com

Lights ON!

Lights ON!
Brighten up your holiday season glow with 3 natural life hacks.

Have you ever noticed that around the holiday season, your skin starts to lose its glow? Like no seriously, have you? Have you analyzed your skin in the mirror after a nice, hot steamy shower?  If yes, you’ve probably noticed enlarged pores, peeling/pale looking skin, possibly even a wind rash!
If you have one or all of what was listed above, don’t worry, this short read has you covered. Step out from the dark and coldness the winter weather has to offer and step into the brightness of the holiday season with these DIYS/steps to an everlasting natural glow!

Chestnut your Cleanser
That’s right, ‘chestnut your cleanser’. Now you’re probably wondering, what does that even mean? THtherapy is a 100% Korean brand that offers handmade 100% chestnut shell bar soaps that can be used for the face and body. This chestnut bar soap is mainly made up of chestnut shell powder as well as sunflower and olive oil to give your skin a deep pore cleansing (THtherapy). This bar also ensures that it’s preservative free. You can believe that your skin will be left feeling moisturized and smooth.
Who should use: individuals with dry skin

Feed your Frankincense Fantasies
Although you probably haven’t given much thought to frankincense, aren’t you now just a little curious to see how it can be beneficial to your skin? Well let’s dig into a quick ‘Did You Know – Christmas style’ edition. Frankincense is well known for its natural astringent properties meaning it has the ability to balance oil production as it also tightens the skin! (Dr. Rita Linkner).  It’s also known for improving tone and strengthens the elasticity of the skin (Sonya Dakar). This charmer has proven it carries tissue remodeling properties! (Sonya Dakar) How exciting is that? You could purchase a serum containing Frankincense such as Marie Veronique Lightening serum. You could also purchase frankincense essential oils from any health store and drop recommended 6-10 droplets into your favourite moisturizer, shampoo, body lotion, night cream/serum, etc (Stephanie Gerber). You’ll see results in no time.
Who should use: individuals with acne prone, uneven toned, blemish skin as well as mature, prone to pre mature aging skin.

‘Tis the Toner
Let’s be realistic; if you use toners, you know that toners are and should be used for every season! Modern day toners help the skin to restore and stabilize its natural moisture and pH levels. Toners also help exfoliate the skin which helps with the absorption of serums and/or moisturizers (Gunna Covert). You’re probably wondering, how can a product that is mostly water based cause so many wonderful effects. Really it’s easy! When toners were first created, they were made with alcohol and water to help individuals with acne prone skin (Sejal Shah, MD). Whereas modern toners used today carry water and a mixture of natural ingredients and botanicals that provide purified and hydrated skin (Tammy Yaiser). Toners today also provide extra aid in impurity removal from a post face wash (Debra Jaliman, MD). All these benefits will have your Christmas selfie shining bright!
Who should use: Ho Ho Ho, Everybodyyyyy! *Santa Claus voice*

Resale Clothing Tips: How to sell your clothes online and make cash

Is it that time of year were there is a new season upon us and you want to revamp your whole closet? Are you getting bored of wearing the same garments over and over again.

Making that extra space in your closet I know sometimes can be hard because of all the clothes you have just sitting there. What better way to make extra cash and sell your unwanted, out of season or just simply items you do not wear anymore. Why not get into that entrepreneurial mood and consider selling clothes online. I mean you never really know if this could turn out to be a successful online business. Considering how easy it truly is to sell your clothes online, I’ve created some TIPS to help you get started. Trust me you will thank me later.

1-Choose unique and high demand items that you know will sell. Try to come up with a certain theme for your page. This will help your page standout from other sellers.

2- Capture great listing pictures, the right lighting and styling will help catch attention. Take pictures of the items modelled if possible, showing different angles. This helps the customer visualize how certain items will fit

3-Give a detailed description of the listings, the more information, the better it will you help sell. Customers like to know about the product in regards to the size, how the item fits, the material and the condition of the item since you are reselling used products.

4- Be as active as possible, the more your followers see you are posting frequently, the more attention your posts will receive. Provide excellent online customer service by being responsive and polite. This will give you good reviews and loyal, returning customers.

5- Price items accordingly and do your research. Knowing the value of your items will help you figure out an accurate price.

Are you considering going through your closet and picking out some items to sell yet? If you are, congratulate yourself. What better way to make extra cash and help recycle your unwanted clothes. Like the famous saying is, “One man’s trash, is another man’s treasure”.

Once you get started, it will amaze you how online shoppers are actually looking to purchase that vintage purse your mom gave you a while ago or those levis jeans that don’t fit you anymore. Online reselling has taken off the last couple of years. Who would have thought that we would be going from a yard sale trying to find those neighbors to come buy your unwanted goods to communicating online with people all over the world who want to buy your items.

Social media makes it easy to sell your clothes online without necessarily having your own online website. There are many alternative websites designated to buy or sell fashion. Some of these include Instagram, Poshmark, Depop, Carosell, Ebay and Thredup. Try a few of the ones I listed and watch how quickly you will adapt to the online world of up cycling and selling. Just simply follow my tips and you will be ahead of the game.