tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16369260758070217162024-03-12T18:37:34.288-04:00On the Fringe of Fyne & FabulousThis is a self-indulgent blog for accessories aficionadas and beauty buffs just like me. I buy stuff, I try stuff. I have fashion hits and fashion misfits. Who doesn't? I make no claims of being a fashionista. I make one assertion: I am fyne and fabulous. That's it. That's me."AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-50152833669983269382012-02-19T21:53:00.000-05:002012-02-19T21:53:24.588-05:00Transcendence: Whitney HoustonA start has not fallen. Rather, a start has risen- to shine her light beyond the parameters of the physical we call Earth into spaces and places of universes unknown.<br />
<br />
There were so many moments during the live-to-air "homegoing" funeral service that brought me to tears. Donnie McClurkin, whose church I've visited in New York back in the day when I was searching the Christian path; Clive Davis' last words to Whitney, holding her to her promise to get her voice on point by August (cuz you know Miss Whitney "The Voice" Houston has already been commissioned by God Source to sing a solo in Heaven's choir). Of the musical guests, Stevie Wonder's personalized rendition of Ribbon in the Sky (one of my all time favourite songs) touched me the most.<br />
<br />
R. Kelly, Kevin Costner, Cece Winans and family- the list of emotional moments goes on and on.<br />
<br />
As I listened to the personal memories shared by close friends and family, I too was brought back to a special memory I have of Whitney. No, I never met her. No I never went to a concert. But there was a time I wanted to be her. As a child I would consider myself a chubby ugly duckling. I loved to sing although I was not quite good at it. Whitney Houston was everything I wanted to be- gorgeous, tall, slender, had long hair (...me and my colonialized thoughts), popular, with the biggest most beautiful voice I had ever heard!<br />
<br />
When I was in 2nd grade, I tried out for the Air Band Show at my elementary school. My group had been one of the acts chosen to perform in the show. I was beyond excited. The song I chose was "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" by Whitney Houston. Two of my friends were my back up dancers. My excitement was short-lived when my teacher used her authority to coerce me into agreeing to let about 10 first graders from my class (it was a 1st/2nd grade split), who didn't get into the show into <em>my</em> performance. I immediately said 'no' but thanks to an effective guilt trip I changed my answer. <br />
<br />
I had dreamed about this performance, prayed about it! Me, lip sync-ing my heart out, whipping my ribbon wrapped pigtails back and forth as I danced and pranced on the gymnasium stage in all my glory with my back-up dancers complementing my every move. A bunch of bratty, snot-nosed first graders were not in my vision of grandeur. Sadly, my choreographed dance for 2 was ruined by these incredibly unrhythmic tots waving their hands and sashaying their hips to a beat that had nothing to do with the song. This woman (my teacher whom I blame to this day) had turned my night to shine into a fiasco that can only be described as a H.A.M (Hot Ass Mess)! *sigh*<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vBj6dnqX_NU/T0GGZFUNLSI/AAAAAAAAAkk/0BHUsVzgxrc/s1600/whitney+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vBj6dnqX_NU/T0GGZFUNLSI/AAAAAAAAAkk/0BHUsVzgxrc/s1600/whitney+1.jpg" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An 80's Song Favourite: I Wanna Dance With Somebody<br />
by Whitney Houston</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Needless to say, this memory is bittersweet.<br />
<br />
As a final gesture to pay my respects to a woman whose talent is undeniable and irreplaceable, I write an open letter:<br />
<br />
To Whitney, now in non-physical form; for you there is no distance between space and time. You like many others before you now know that death is nothing to fear because for the human spirit there is no death. Our spirits are microcosmic embodiments of the Eternal Being from wence they came. We need not the house of a physical body to live throughout eternity just as our Creator lives. You have transcended this life, and for a time get to re-emerge with the Creator before your desire to expand causes you to rebirth into yet another physical form. Your memories live on. Your music lives on. You have inspired in both life and death.<br />
<br />
May you R.I.P (Rest in Paradise) and L.I.V (Live in Victory). Thank you for telling me the greatest love of all is inside of me. I will always love you, Whitney. (*tears)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yofSCANgGOg/T0GRbbCZy9I/AAAAAAAAAlo/--xPhMpq08w/s1600/whitney+houston+heart+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yofSCANgGOg/T0GRbbCZy9I/AAAAAAAAAlo/--xPhMpq08w/s320/whitney+houston+heart+collage.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ode To Whitney: The World Will Always Love You!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-5799876092509806432012-01-02T22:01:00.011-05:002012-01-03T11:50:15.253-05:00Happy EntrepreNewYear!Earth and its inhabitants are finally experiencing the first fruits of 2012! We can say goodbye to the Age of Pisces as the Universe pours out its Spirit of Consciousness for those who care to drink of its goodness in the Age of Aquarius.<br />
<br />
Contrary to popular belief, the Mayans did not prophesy the end of the world come Dec. 21, 2012- it is a misnomer that has captured the attention of many through blockbuster films, documentaries and loud mouth buffoons. If you want to know what the Mayans really had to say, you can check out: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gfo6NrKoC1k">Mayan Calendar: The Secret of 2012</a>. The interviewee, <a href="http://www.greggbraden.com/">Gregg Braden</a>, is such a humble, intelligent and delightful human being. I went to one of his seminars in May 2010 at the <a href="http://www.hayhouse.com/event_details.php?event_id=1575">I Can Do It! Conference</a> held in Toronto, a Hay House Inc. event. I also have some of his books: Fractal Time, The Isaiah Effect and the God Code.<br />
<br />
Being Aquarian born, I feel a great connection to this time of spiritual awakening. I have not (for quite some time) made New Year's Resolutions. I do not think I should wait for a new year to make a decision that would positively influence the moment of <em>now</em>. Really, if I'm having Christmas dinner with the fam and notice I've been packing on the pounds why should I wait until January to start working out? Such procrastination only leads to more procrastination. <br />
<br />
On my list of "Things to Do" for this year is to take my jewellery designing business to the world wide web. In the few short months I've been custom-making jewellery, I have found great reward in supporting a good cause while bringing my dormant creativity to life. I think it's about time to give online shoppers across the world something for their purchasing pleasure!<br />
<br />
Here's a sneak peak of what you can expect from my collections:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcgicsXr5GM/TwJf9OZz41I/AAAAAAAAAi4/4kocGNPXnoc/s1600/IMG-20111218-00292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcgicsXr5GM/TwJf9OZz41I/AAAAAAAAAi4/4kocGNPXnoc/s320/IMG-20111218-00292.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anke Designs: <br />
Cobalt Chinese Crystals & Gun Metal Chain Necklace<br />
w/ Blue Tiger's Eye Stone Pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OceJgJkOeYE/TwJf1vqDWbI/AAAAAAAAAjE/3xCpYNwNnyE/s1600/IMG-20111218-00289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OceJgJkOeYE/TwJf1vqDWbI/AAAAAAAAAjE/3xCpYNwNnyE/s320/IMG-20111218-00289.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anke Designs:<br />
Multi-Green Bead Cluster Necklace w/ Silver Plated Chains</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NANsLqyB6hs/TwJf1hywg9I/AAAAAAAAAi0/-UQOFg5iALE/s1600/IMG-20120102-00319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NANsLqyB6hs/TwJf1hywg9I/AAAAAAAAAi0/-UQOFg5iALE/s320/IMG-20120102-00319.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anke Designs:<br />
Turquoise Stone Beads & Red Howlite Chipstone <br />
Three- Tiered Necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sB0jlmkpyhk/TwMvWa2798I/AAAAAAAAAkY/gSa-MNphj9o/s1600/orange1_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sB0jlmkpyhk/TwMvWa2798I/AAAAAAAAAkY/gSa-MNphj9o/s320/orange1_c.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anke Designs:<br />
Citrus Chinese Beads w/ Moonstone & Russian Amazonite<br />
Chipstones Three-Tiered Necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jag4tT-W-rA/TwJf9ZkjZcI/AAAAAAAAAjU/jnTT4YrC-pU/s320/IMG-20110904-02393_ac.jpg" width="280" /></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Anke Designs:</div>White Turquoise Stone & Hematite Chip Bead<br />
Multi-Strand Bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="text-align: right;"><table align="right" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YHuZ24OZCEA/TwJf53sgxsI/AAAAAAAAAjM/eips0J3hoWU/s1600/IMG-20110904-02406_ac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YHuZ24OZCEA/TwJf53sgxsI/AAAAAAAAAjM/eips0J3hoWU/s320/IMG-20110904-02406_ac.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anke Designs:<br />
Two-Toned Chinese Crystal & Hematite Bead<br />
Diamond-Shaped Earrings<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And one of my favourite set of earrings:</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ySh3bNdA7mU/TwJs4szsT_I/AAAAAAAAAjk/qDpZd_0b5Xc/s1600/Toronto-20110904-00730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ySh3bNdA7mU/TwJs4szsT_I/AAAAAAAAAjk/qDpZd_0b5Xc/s320/Toronto-20110904-00730.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anke Designs:<br />
"Nefertiti" Silver & Black Wooden Bead Earrings</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Coming soon.... (fingers crossed)!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-32091470239871830472011-12-05T00:45:00.001-05:002011-12-05T00:49:43.992-05:00Fashion Weeks Pt. 3: Last Train to ParisIt feels like an eternity since I posted my last blog entry. Actually, in the blogoshere matrix 6 weeks without writing a word <em>is</em> an eternity.<br />
<br />
The most interesting of menial things that have transpired over the past month and a half have been that I got a promotion at work, I went to Toronto's Fashion Week and I feng shui'd my room. ( I don't think I spelled that correctly.)<br />
<br />
I debated that after such a long hiatus, should I even bother write about TFW. I mean really, at this point it's such old news. But you know what? Who da heck cares?! Fashion's "old news" was a new and fascinating experience for me and I'ma give my two cents on TFW before the year is through.<br />
<br />
But first, the "Fyne n' Fabulous Fashion Train" has got to make it's last stop in Paris before taking a first-class plane ride back to the T-dot.<br />
<br />
Here's my top 10 faves from Paris' Ready-toWear Spring 2012 Fashion Week:<br />
<br />
10. Paco Rabanne.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LUsYQRrGb3I/TtxWj1UpkbI/AAAAAAAAAhI/6ttVXuiJJDA/s1600/paco+rabanne+%252310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LUsYQRrGb3I/TtxWj1UpkbI/AAAAAAAAAhI/6ttVXuiJJDA/s320/paco+rabanne+%252310.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Paco Rabanne</td></tr>
</tbody></table>9. Chalayan.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yP9a12NHrrk/TtxWgYLcelI/AAAAAAAAAgY/W2_0sV-5udQ/s1600/chalayan+%25239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yP9a12NHrrk/TtxWgYLcelI/AAAAAAAAAgY/W2_0sV-5udQ/s320/chalayan+%25239.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Chalayan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>8. Loewe.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdPg8QnQ_sY/TtxWfAzbMRI/AAAAAAAAAgA/bHic4LFVG0w/s1600/Loewe+%25238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdPg8QnQ_sY/TtxWfAzbMRI/AAAAAAAAAgA/bHic4LFVG0w/s320/Loewe+%25238.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Loewe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>7. Paco Rabanne.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uVfzuZ9bO3o/TtxWjRL3EtI/AAAAAAAAAg8/D2sc_UKFWvQ/s1600/paco+rabanne+%25237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uVfzuZ9bO3o/TtxWjRL3EtI/AAAAAAAAAg8/D2sc_UKFWvQ/s320/paco+rabanne+%25237.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Paco Rabanne</td></tr>
</tbody></table>6. Paul & Joe.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0iMCJuLNNc/TtxWjfKgDuI/AAAAAAAAAg4/zWHqrZwA6VY/s1600/paul+%2526+joe+%25236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0iMCJuLNNc/TtxWjfKgDuI/AAAAAAAAAg4/zWHqrZwA6VY/s320/paul+%2526+joe+%25236.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Paul & Joe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>5. Mugler.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jt870Fx7I4/TtxWfJZpdtI/AAAAAAAAAgE/a6D0kj4hjrw/s1600/mugler+%25235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jt870Fx7I4/TtxWfJZpdtI/AAAAAAAAAgE/a6D0kj4hjrw/s320/mugler+%25235.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Mugler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>4. Givenchy.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb8toDd2hDo/TtxWffLX0kI/AAAAAAAAAgM/t0rNHcVS0b4/s1600/givenchy+%25234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb8toDd2hDo/TtxWffLX0kI/AAAAAAAAAgM/t0rNHcVS0b4/s320/givenchy+%25234.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Givenchy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>3. Emanuel Ungaro.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWdV58icFHk/TtxWgaBROFI/AAAAAAAAAgc/jo6oMiiFS5s/s1600/emanuel+ungaro+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWdV58icFHk/TtxWgaBROFI/AAAAAAAAAgc/jo6oMiiFS5s/s320/emanuel+ungaro+%25233.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Emanuel Ungaro</td></tr>
</tbody></table>2. Elie Saab.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pCyH_BhaExE/TtxWiF5JaUI/AAAAAAAAAgw/pb0HFOzzQVo/s1600/Elie+Saab+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pCyH_BhaExE/TtxWiF5JaUI/AAAAAAAAAgw/pb0HFOzzQVo/s320/Elie+Saab+%25232.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Elie Saab</td></tr>
</tbody></table>1. Elie Saab.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jrEi36GgCs/TtxWhc-Y9bI/AAAAAAAAAgo/wzjpMK-sYtA/s1600/Elie+Saab+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jrEi36GgCs/TtxWhc-Y9bI/AAAAAAAAAgo/wzjpMK-sYtA/s320/Elie+Saab+%25231.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paris Fashion Week: Spring RTW 2012<br />
Designer Label: Elie Saab</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Elie Saab nabbed the number one and two spots on my top 10 list. This was by far my overall favourite collection. Bold, sexy, feminine, daring.... just like me! lol<br />
<br />
On a different note, can you believe Christmas is only 3 weeks away?!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-66879537680408607432011-10-23T17:23:00.001-04:002011-10-23T17:24:56.125-04:00Fashion Weeks Pt. 2: New York, London, MilanOver the past few weeks, putting together all the various trends from the multitude of fashion collections kind of reminds me of making an ice cream sundae. In Fashion Week Part One, I offered "31 flavours" to choose from. <br />
<br />
Now in part two, I'm providing the toppings to make the sundae complete. For a complete, visual presentation, it's time to garnish the delightful and delicious ready-to-wear fashions from part one with accessories!<br />
<br />
I am drooling over the handbags an clutches that accompanied the walking mannequins down the catwalk.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0gdwHS7Xdh8/TpHv5CHeBiI/AAAAAAAAAcI/9T9dH9TUtrc/s1600/ss+2012+pic+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" oda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0gdwHS7Xdh8/TpHv5CHeBiI/AAAAAAAAAcI/9T9dH9TUtrc/s400/ss+2012+pic+12.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Swag Bag"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aq4omnnhuvY/Tpuq9ROhaKI/AAAAAAAAAdY/srjJtuHmUhE/s1600/handbag+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aq4omnnhuvY/Tpuq9ROhaKI/AAAAAAAAAdY/srjJtuHmUhE/s400/handbag+collage.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom Zone: "Swag Bag"</td></tr>
</tbody></table> There were a lot of platform loafers (too ugly in my opinion to be shown here), as well as some bright colourful ones. Ankles are the center of attention with all sorts of straps, buckles and other nouveaux embellishments. Personally, I find straps and such around my ankles a bit restrictive but I really like Burberry's beaded anklets. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KDdDA9JBaQ/TpHv9uYYonI/AAAAAAAAAcc/reSbsRN7MuE/s1600/ss+2012+pic+16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" oda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KDdDA9JBaQ/TpHv9uYYonI/AAAAAAAAAcc/reSbsRN7MuE/s400/ss+2012+pic+16.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
" Strapped"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cv9zfHsmXgU/Tpuq9jWiEtI/AAAAAAAAAdg/JqEcU_pW1hk/s1600/shoe+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cv9zfHsmXgU/Tpuq9jWiEtI/AAAAAAAAAdg/JqEcU_pW1hk/s400/shoe+collage.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom Zone: "Strapped"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Belts had a contemporary yet classic feel, offering clean lines and offbeat designs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeV-Ny3Vw-A/TpHv5HC1uwI/AAAAAAAAAcM/ZB6fZFN6Ekg/s1600/ss+2012+pic+11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" rda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeV-Ny3Vw-A/TpHv5HC1uwI/AAAAAAAAAcM/ZB6fZFN6Ekg/s400/ss+2012+pic+11.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Waist Management"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFAp7pVzLB4/Tpuq7hI6slI/AAAAAAAAAdI/h_26kb7otP8/s1600/belts+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFAp7pVzLB4/Tpuq7hI6slI/AAAAAAAAAdI/h_26kb7otP8/s320/belts+collage.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>Zoom Zone: "Waist Management"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Clothes are accessorized with statement jewellery pieces that are oversized and opulent.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HcPqfHFslj0/TpHv73-fd_I/AAAAAAAAAcU/TtvBpn4Ak1c/s1600/ss+2012+pic+15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" rda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HcPqfHFslj0/TpHv73-fd_I/AAAAAAAAAcU/TtvBpn4Ak1c/s400/ss+2012+pic+15.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Treasure Chest"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMVfzywc1mE/Tpuq8t8TK6I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/jFFXLwjohz4/s1600/accessories+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" rda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMVfzywc1mE/Tpuq8t8TK6I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/jFFXLwjohz4/s400/accessories+collage.jpg" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom Zone: "Treasure Chest"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Plastic frames and coloured lenses made up the body of round, cat-eye and brow flat-line sunglasses.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05IodfgBww8/TpHv87bK2qI/AAAAAAAAAcY/wsCoi-7wkTY/s1600/ss+2012+pic+14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" rda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05IodfgBww8/TpHv87bK2qI/AAAAAAAAAcY/wsCoi-7wkTY/s400/ss+2012+pic+14.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Throw Some Shade"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sw5SRNMzwTM/TqSA7UmX6oI/AAAAAAAAAd4/PibIirwUg4A/s1600/sunglasses+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" rda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sw5SRNMzwTM/TqSA7UmX6oI/AAAAAAAAAd4/PibIirwUg4A/s400/sunglasses+collage.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom Zone: "Throw Some Shade"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>More fashion, more fun!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-87827154437939462222011-10-09T18:16:00.005-04:002011-10-12T23:41:52.190-04:00Fashion Weeks Pt. 1: New York, London, MilanDuring September, as the female masses were being fed fashion trends for Fall 2011, fashion's elite gathered from week to week in the city's of New York, London, Milan and Paris as designers showcased their ready-to-wear spring/summer fashion collections for 2012.<br />
<br />
Since the commencement of New York Fashion Week, I visited <a href="http://www.style.com/">style.com</a> and <a href="http://www.elleuk.com/">Elle Magazine UK</a> to see the highlights and pictures from the runway shows of each day. It the idea for me to save and collect photos of outfits and accessories I liked, then go through them to see if I could identify potential trends for the upcoming spring. I avoided reading the runway wrap-ups by the Tim Blanks' and other gurus of the fashion world as not to be influenced by their expert observations.<br />
<br />
I will preface the the fashion collage previews below by reiterating I make no claims of being a fashionista. I'm no Jeanne Beker. I may not know names of fabric, or how to pronounce some of the names of the designers listed, but I do know I love fashion and accessories for their beauty, creativity, and expressiveness.<br />
<br />
You will also notice there are no photos from collections presented at Paris Fashion Week for reasons too long to explain here, but I will likely post some "Anke Fyne & Fab Favourites" in the upcoming weeks.<br />
<br />
There was colour...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6kGKk2hC_Mo/TpHvyYbDxaI/AAAAAAAAAbw/ohAAAXbwU2E/s1600/ss+2012+pic+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6kGKk2hC_Mo/TpHvyYbDxaI/AAAAAAAAAbw/ohAAAXbwU2E/s400/ss+2012+pic+5.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Mademoiselles de Moutard"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>and colour...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-BAFcKrEMQ/TpHvu93cDDI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Zx2dFTisPbs/s1600/ss+2012+pic+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-BAFcKrEMQ/TpHvu93cDDI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Zx2dFTisPbs/s400/ss+2012+pic+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Citrusy & Soft"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>...and more colour! I love the boldness and vibrancy of the ruby reds and lapis lazuli blues. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PnWT6N23FnA/TpHvuj6uFOI/AAAAAAAAAbg/RrXSWTUKYHM/s1600/ss+2012+pic+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PnWT6N23FnA/TpHvuj6uFOI/AAAAAAAAAbg/RrXSWTUKYHM/s400/ss+2012+pic+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Semi-Precious Gems"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>White was prevalent in many of the collections, especially in sophisticated two-piece suits. Tailored pant were cropped just at the base of the calf, allowing full view of ankle strapped shoes, a signature trend for spring 2012. Wide leg trousers were elegant and ground grazing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-USuBMjvHdBc/TpHvyJspUlI/AAAAAAAAAbs/pseGivlXhmg/s1600/ss+2012+pic+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-USuBMjvHdBc/TpHvyJspUlI/AAAAAAAAAbs/pseGivlXhmg/s400/ss+2012+pic+4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"White Delight"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I really liked some of the high-waited mid-drift baring top and bottoms. I'm not in my 20's and I haven't worn a size 0 since grade 3. To me, showing my belly button in a public place other than the beach is equivalent to seeing an 80 year old at a nudist beach; so I must say I like how some of the designers maintained youthfulness in their pret-a-porter ensembles by offering a sneak peak of the upper abdominals while keeping it classy with skirts lengths due south of the knee. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l1Wvy0flGnc/TpHv3FktCEI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Dsi-VcoHdHk/s1600/ss+2012+pic+10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l1Wvy0flGnc/TpHv3FktCEI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Dsi-VcoHdHk/s400/ss+2012+pic+10.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Tummy Tuck"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Being rich and famous sure has its perks. Unlike us common folk, they get first dibs on the "what's next" in fashion. Why wait when you can wear it now? Gwyneth Paltrow rocked the red carpet at the 2011 Emmy Awards in the Pucci dress pictured above (bottom, far right), which debuted at Milan's Spring 2012 fashion week.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJtPWIKlAM4/TpIRca-BKvI/AAAAAAAAAc0/6QhyorHuxBk/s1600/Gywneth+Paltrow+in+Emilio+Pucci+at+2011+Emmys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJtPWIKlAM4/TpIRca-BKvI/AAAAAAAAAc0/6QhyorHuxBk/s320/Gywneth+Paltrow+in+Emilio+Pucci+at+2011+Emmys.jpg" width="108" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gwyneth Paltrow at 2011 Emmy Awards in Emilio Pucci</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The Pucci number Gwyneth wore that night also embodied another upcoming trend of see-through silhouettes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iL3_kOz3TSo/TpHvwAWNpZI/AAAAAAAAAbo/WtB3o8sqdzQ/s1600/ss+2012+pic+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iL3_kOz3TSo/TpHvwAWNpZI/AAAAAAAAAbo/WtB3o8sqdzQ/s400/ss+2012+pic+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Peek-a-boo, I See Through"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Fabrics were soft and sheer, flowing with and away from the body.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pesprlgll_o/TpHv1DVJb8I/AAAAAAAAAb8/bJBtx2iNGs8/s1600/ss+2012+pic+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pesprlgll_o/TpHv1DVJb8I/AAAAAAAAAb8/bJBtx2iNGs8/s400/ss+2012+pic+8.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Let it Flow"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>If your not careful, you could definitely pull a "Britney" in one of these thigh high slitted garments.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1I8lEBaxNY/TpHvzsXg7kI/AAAAAAAAAb0/xqH6ziu5wNg/s1600/ss+2012+pic+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1I8lEBaxNY/TpHvzsXg7kI/AAAAAAAAAb0/xqH6ziu5wNg/s400/ss+2012+pic+6.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Week: New York, London, Milan<br />
"The Mile High Club"</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Outerwear had structure, clean lines, iridescent sheen and various prints. Multi-functional coat dresses. I personally have a thing for hoodie coats (first pic, second row). Perhaps there wasn't enought of them on the runways to establish them as a spring trend, but I like the style too much to care.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2kC1-UaNsY/TpHv7kWUZwI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/4aqVIqgx51A/s1600/ss+2012+pic+13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2kC1-UaNsY/TpHv7kWUZwI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/4aqVIqgx51A/s400/ss+2012+pic+13.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"Cover Me"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Fringes of all different lengths, embellished frocks from neckline to hemline.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVvTnNh22FI/TpHv0dbHfEI/AAAAAAAAAb4/aKtPpAGxONI/s1600/ss+2012+pic+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVvTnNh22FI/TpHv0dbHfEI/AAAAAAAAAb4/aKtPpAGxONI/s400/ss+2012+pic+7.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Weeks: New York, London, Milan<br />
"On the Fringe"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stay tuned for more on handbags, shoes and other accessories!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-33526593885185901862011-09-17T15:41:00.003-04:002011-09-17T16:43:52.719-04:00Frugal & Fabulous: My Costa X ExperienceIt's 3:33pm on a sunny, Saturday afternoon, and so far I have had a delightful day. It started with an early morning meditation, followed by a trip to the gym with a habitual detour to Timmies for a medium coffee two creams one sugar and a shot of butter caramel (also great in iced caps btw), and a trial of the new maple cinammon french toast bagel, toasted, half butter and double cheddar (absolutely delicious).<br />
<br />
After an hour at the gym, I was supposed to simply go back home for a day of couch potatoe delight. However, I decided to make yet another detour, this time to the local mall. It's my niece's birthday tomorrow. She's turning five. Even though I had decided on taking her to get her first mani-pedi, I thought I might check out a few stores to see if there was anything worth buying. There certainly was...just not for my niece.<br />
<br />
On my way to Siblings I was passing by Costa X which had bright yellow signs around the entrance reading: "Store Closing. Everything Must Go. 50% off everything"! As fate would have it, the thought of purchasing some new flat shoes for work had been a topic of discussion in my mental "Situation Room" earlier this week. The gold ballerina flats I'm currently wearing from Aldo are decrepit-looking and disintegrating rapidly. The glue has broken up with its sole-mate. I knew I was in need of a new pair but had no desire to pay fall season prices.<br />
<br />
The sale was timely. For under $75 (this includes HST) I bought a handbag, two ballerina flats, a scarf, and ear muffs (which I will wear under my snood when once the Canuck winter hits full force).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKjCh_F9e-g/TnTovZeU-lI/AAAAAAAAAbM/Liyn1Z7nbe8/s1600/IMG-20110917-02431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" rba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKjCh_F9e-g/TnTovZeU-lI/AAAAAAAAAbM/Liyn1Z7nbe8/s320/IMG-20110917-02431.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Store Closing Sale at Costa X<br />
Clockwise from left: Black furry earmuffs, faux leather<br />
side satchel, leopard print scarf, midnight blue/black <br />
snake print flats, leopard print flats with bow detailing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today was not my lucky day. Today was a moment of alignment."AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-10378775545243093422011-08-29T15:32:00.003-04:002011-08-31T09:57:32.920-04:00Putting the "V" in VMALast night I was one of the millions of viewers who tuned in to watch the 2011 VMA's. I was left dazed and confused at the overextended monologue by Lady Gaga's alter ego, Jo Calderone. (Kudos to the make-up artist who did a fantastic job with the visual transformation.) <br />
<br />
Far removed from the "monster mania", I grew impatient with the opening act as I awaited a performance from Momma Monster and changed the channel only to miss her tumble off the beer drenched piano. (I got to watch the performance on Youtube less than 15 minutes later). No matter what anyone has to say about her antics, Lady Gaga is an amazing singer, musician and performer.<br />
<br />
News of Beyonc<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">é</span></span> announcing she was expecting on the VMA black carpet blew up the entertainment blogs and had everyone buzzing. Pre-show photos were later confirmed after her "Love on Top" performance when she dropped the mic, opened her sequin studded blazer and massaged a very-present baby bump. She was glowing! Her elation was infectious as her auric field radiated throughout the Nokia Theare and permeated television screens around the world.<br />
<br />
She wore a gorgeous bright orange, one-shouldered Lanvin Fall 2011 gown accented with emerald and diamond accessories. Aside from the bright hue, it was a far cry from her usual body hugging, skin baring outfits like the mini-dress she wore at a prior VMA show.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKdIP1ddYuA/TlvjxTCdfwI/AAAAAAAAAaw/7XbsK0glE-A/s1600/vma+beyonce+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKdIP1ddYuA/TlvjxTCdfwI/AAAAAAAAAaw/7XbsK0glE-A/s320/vma+beyonce+2011.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beyonc<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">é</span></span> and Baby Bump in Lanvin at the 2011 VMAs</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvZU0lq0i2I/TlvjxXcvXRI/AAAAAAAAAa0/lw1GdqG0huI/s1600/beyonce+at+the+2010+vmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvZU0lq0i2I/TlvjxXcvXRI/AAAAAAAAAa0/lw1GdqG0huI/s320/beyonce+at+the+2010+vmas.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beyonc<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: small;">é</span></span> in Roberto Cavali at the 2009 VMAs</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"Mommy-to-Bey" is definitely a trendsetter. Boob-bearing frocks were all the rage last night, a look Beyonc<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">é</span> </span>donned at the 2009 MTV VMAs.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sone of the "Deep-V" vixens included Kelly Rowland (former Destiny's Child sidekick and Beyonc<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">é</span>'</span>s bff) and reality TV's T&A star Kim Kardashian.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bL-TbLRRgKs/Tlvjr1BeyRI/AAAAAAAAAas/N59blHOIWZc/s1600/Vma%2527s.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bL-TbLRRgKs/Tlvjr1BeyRI/AAAAAAAAAas/N59blHOIWZc/s320/Vma%2527s.JPG" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Boob nV"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">I generally prefer to conceal the twins but after seeing these hot plunging necklines, I am considering adding a peak-a-boo piece to my closet.<br />
<br />
Tr<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">è</span></span>s Chaud!</div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-17384307836528274362011-08-21T20:48:00.002-04:002011-08-24T16:27:36.930-04:00All That Glitters...Last week Sunday evening, around the same time I am writing this post, my parents were just settling in after taking a weekend getaway across the border. My mom was being treated to a weekend of bliss courtesy of my father. Dinner, shopping spree, penthouse suite... After 50 years of marriage my parents still got it! <br />
<br />
Before they had left, I issued my mother one request: buy me a cute maxi dress. Upon their return, I got way more than I asked for. I didn't get just one maxi dress, but two! The first was the dressier of the two, country-chic, purple, white and blue paisly print with black mesh detailing. The second, a tye-dye water colour dress that gradually shifted colours from light pink to indigo, top to bottom.<br />
<br />
As my mother shared the deets of the elimination process that lead to the final picks, I found out there was a runner-up that was a strong contender but never made the cut. The ungrateful, green-eyed monster came out of me and I asked why didn't Daddy get it for me? That's when I found out I was in for one more surprise...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5IGoTO7_JY/TlGaj3NKvnI/AAAAAAAAAaY/qES8FqLQeBI/s1600/atg-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5IGoTO7_JY/TlGaj3NKvnI/AAAAAAAAAaY/qES8FqLQeBI/s320/atg-1.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy's Pick: Rhinestone Encrusted Peep-Toes</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
These shoes caught my dad's eye (surprise, surprise) and instantly he knew they were so "me" (surprise surprise). As I unwrapped the shoes out of the tissue paper, unable to speak, I started cackling louder than a wild hyena. I was in utter shock! This marked the first time ever in life my dad bought a fashion item for me, without me being there. In that moment I was so proud of him, I almost shed a tear. They were the perfect style and the perfect size (luckily my mother and I wear the same shoe size).<br />
<br />
I will always and forever be "Daddy's little girl". Elephant shoe (I love you) Daddy!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-14874571532550402152011-08-09T13:30:00.008-04:002011-08-18T09:44:43.550-04:00Gleam! Gold & Green.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>One of the things I enjoy doing for some "me time", is choosing a day out of the weekend to spend a few reclusive hours at Chapters. I usually start by indulging myself with a Strawberry Vivanno Smoothie with whipped cream and a Marshmallow Dream Bar from the Starbucks Cafe. (Whoever came up with that name for a Rice Krispies square is a genius! So luxurious sounding, especially when said with a Bri-ish accent. Try it!)<br />
<br />
I wander through the aisles, somewhat aimlessly until something catches my eye. I am quite fascinated yet fearful of the business and finance section, with all of the 600 page hard covers and books "...For Dummies".<br />
<br />
My main stop, however, is the Magazines section, pulling as many beauty and fashion magazines as my arms can hold. Elle, In Style, Vogue, Flare, W, Dazed, Zink, LouLou, Essence, Glamour, and the list goes on. Then I scout the floor a place to sit; which on weekends is hard to find. I usually end up sitting on a plastic mini seat in the kiddie area or I find an obscure corner and plop my self cross-legged on the floor.<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Anywho, as I make a short story long, I went to Chapters Sunday past. One of the Autumn trends that got me uber excited is the green and gold combination. (Warm, yellow-based tones look great with my complexion!)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Saw these Gucci heels (from the 2011 Fall collection) plastered all over the internet and fashion magazines aournd the end of May, June sometime. I love the python texture detailing for the ankle strap (python print is another hot trend for fall).</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YW4DAu6y2wQ/TkEweMKwRII/AAAAAAAAAXo/0O1gGEteS1o/s1600/shoes+green+suede+and+gold+heels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="165" naa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YW4DAu6y2wQ/TkEweMKwRII/AAAAAAAAAXo/0O1gGEteS1o/s200/shoes+green+suede+and+gold+heels.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Suede & Gold Heels: Gucci</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I have a pair of gold and green gemmed sandals that I got to rock this summer. The first time I wore them, my legs shaked if I stood in one place to long. I think the sole-to-heel angle is kinda steep with no arch support; but I'm good now. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K2PNTcarUqc/TkEyHvtoyuI/AAAAAAAAAYg/yJ3Yf1axB_I/s1600/IMG-20110807-02181+ac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" naa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K2PNTcarUqc/TkEyHvtoyuI/AAAAAAAAAYg/yJ3Yf1axB_I/s200/IMG-20110807-02181+ac.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green-Jeweled & Gold Strapped Heels: B2</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here are a few more green and gold accessories for your viewing pleasure:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H5KcYAU8Mu0/TkEweGC_IaI/AAAAAAAAAXk/pvProC7Ym8M/s1600/bracelet+lily+and+lionel+green+suede+bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="151" naa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H5KcYAU8Mu0/TkEweGC_IaI/AAAAAAAAAXk/pvProC7Ym8M/s200/bracelet+lily+and+lionel+green+suede+bracelet.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Suede & Gold Bracelet: Lily & Lionel</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bG45khExPHc/TkEweV5ILvI/AAAAAAAAAXw/rTXuyGt_Pp8/s1600/rings+yvel+green+sapphire+wrap+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="188" naa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bG45khExPHc/TkEweV5ILvI/AAAAAAAAAXw/rTXuyGt_Pp8/s200/rings+yvel+green+sapphire+wrap+ring.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Sapphire Wrap Ring: Yvel</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dvBRhdpO4Uo/TkEweqAToOI/AAAAAAAAAX0/_ln4MJJBku4/s1600/Risque+Business+LV+crocodile+emerald+and+gold+bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" naa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dvBRhdpO4Uo/TkEweqAToOI/AAAAAAAAAX0/_ln4MJJBku4/s1600/Risque+Business+LV+crocodile+emerald+and+gold+bag.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crocodile Emerald & Gold Handbag with a Gold Cuff Wrist Lockit: Louis Vuitton</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
This photo is absolutely gorge! It's apart of the <em>Overboard </em>editorial spread in Elle Mag's August issue:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ixV2XpWRAm4/TkFsU9xQk2I/AAAAAAAAAY0/o4MEYCwza-I/s1600/Overboard-by-Carter-Smith-for-Elle-DesignSceneNet-08a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ixV2XpWRAm4/TkFsU9xQk2I/AAAAAAAAAY0/o4MEYCwza-I/s320/Overboard-by-Carter-Smith-for-Elle-DesignSceneNet-08a.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Damask Tunic: Oscar de la Renta</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am"falling" in love with these fall trends, indeed. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />
P.S Happy Birthday Mummy! Muah!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-90289782432446137462011-07-28T14:15:00.004-04:002011-07-28T14:23:46.924-04:00Colour Clash ControlDo you remember when it was a fashion faux pas to wear pink and red together? Not anymore! <br />
<br />
Wearing black and brown together was once snubbed by stodgy fashion bourgeoisie until some fashion-forward provocateur created leopard print couture. Who said you can't wear white after labour day? Bend the rules and don 'winter white' in November. Fashion rules have slackened and women everywhere can be free from the noose that once choked their individual style.<br />
<br />
No longer commiting a fashion heresy, I wore a geometric patterned red, pink and white chiffon dress with ruffles to the LuvLi Ladies' Show along with self-made accessries.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zpaeFCgE60/Ti2w94D_BDI/AAAAAAAAAVo/qNArHGWsTLw/s1600/IMG-20110724-01960+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zpaeFCgE60/Ti2w94D_BDI/AAAAAAAAAVo/qNArHGWsTLw/s320/IMG-20110724-01960+cropped.jpg" t$="true" width="221" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AnKe Accessories</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I strung a red diamond-shaped pendant dappled with pink flecks with multi-shaped, translucent beads of the same colours to create this cleavage concealing necklace. To avoid being to matchy-matchy I went with freshwater pearls of different sizes for shoulder grazing drop earrings.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QW4gcEMidwE/TjFpzUZUMwI/AAAAAAAAAXA/2y4F_kLFU6M/s1600/freshwater+pearl+earrings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QW4gcEMidwE/TjFpzUZUMwI/AAAAAAAAAXA/2y4F_kLFU6M/s320/freshwater+pearl+earrings.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AnKe Accessories: A closer look</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Between the red/pink dress and the red/pink accessories, I knew my outfit was on colour overload. In my mind I likened my outfit to spicy food. A bit of caliente is good, but too much becomes unpalatable. Onlookers shouldn't have their eyes water when I walk by them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_ySBuCcwRQ/Ti2w9S8-GEI/AAAAAAAAAVg/smDgsdST8ZA/s1600/Toronto-20110724-02005+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_ySBuCcwRQ/Ti2w9S8-GEI/AAAAAAAAAVg/smDgsdST8ZA/s320/Toronto-20110724-02005+cropped.jpg" t$="true" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dress: H&M<br />
Belt: Dynamite</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I needed some "yogurt" to simmer the spiciness of my colourful ensemble; so I added a beige wrap belt around my waist, interweaving the red chiffon sash that came with the dress into it- just for the sake of making things interesting. To top things off, I wore my beige patent leather Guess peep toe platforms along with a medium size clutch. (see <a href="http://fyneandfab.blogspot.com/search/label/Khemet%20Chronicles">Khemet Chronicles</a>)<br />
<br />
Yes, I've worn these items multiple times over. No, I don't have a problem with being "caught" wearing the same thing twice. Yeah...that's right. And what?"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-85566988693105964762011-07-25T16:15:00.000-04:002011-07-28T09:57:02.400-04:00Fashion Hearts Pink at the LuvLi Ladies' ShowYesterday I attended the LuvLi Ladies' Show at the Gladstone Hotel, where my childhood friend planned and hosted her first event and launched her own women's lifestyle magazine.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fjn_ROLzg4k/Ti2w9QA5W-I/AAAAAAAAAVc/HPPwz44cLOc/s1600/IMG-20110724-02012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fjn_ROLzg4k/Ti2w9QA5W-I/AAAAAAAAAVc/HPPwz44cLOc/s320/IMG-20110724-02012.jpg" t$="true" width="254" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"AnKe" and Lisa Sterling at the LuvLi Ladies Show</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--TSaSpTirQM/Ti2zkxZO1OI/AAAAAAAAAWA/BGq2T4J-k58/s1600/IMG-20110724-01950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--TSaSpTirQM/Ti2zkxZO1OI/AAAAAAAAAWA/BGq2T4J-k58/s320/IMG-20110724-01950.jpg" t$="true" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Premier Issue of LuvLi Magazine</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Your girl, Miss Fyne & Fab chick herself wrote the "I'm a Survivor" article, which is about Leila Springer, a 12 year cancer survivor and the president of The Olive Branch of Hope Breast Cancer Support Services and the World Foundation on Breast Cancer, two non-profit organizations in Ontario.<br />
<br />
I was also the centerfold model and writer of "Turn Over A New Leaf", an article about fashion accessories trends for the fall season.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0dRMMNSSiiA/Ti2zk5LyKQI/AAAAAAAAAWI/2YwdjnGpXXI/s1600/IMG-20110724-01948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0dRMMNSSiiA/Ti2zk5LyKQI/AAAAAAAAAWI/2YwdjnGpXXI/s320/IMG-20110724-01948.jpg" t$="true" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centerfold Model: LuvLi Ladies' Magazine </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KC0DLrBT1mE/Th71DGg5OnI/AAAAAAAAATs/X--UtswLlo0/s1600/IMG_8957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KC0DLrBT1mE/Th71DGg5OnI/AAAAAAAAATs/X--UtswLlo0/s320/IMG_8957.jpg" t$="true" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Personal Favourite</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I was not impressed when I saw that there was a grammatical error in the "Metal Mayhem" section thanks to an editor doing a less than "luvli" job editing my work. My original work did NOT have that error (yes, I checked). Someone should have edited the editor! Argh! That makes <em>me</em> look bad because <em>my</em> name is attached to the article. Sooooo unimpressed. (insert screw face here)<br />
<br />
On a brighter note I, too, had a major "first" yesterday. Remember the bowl of pearls from the <a href="http://fyneandfab.blogspot.com/2011/07/beadazzled-for-breast-cancer.html">Beadazzled for Breast Cancer</a> post? I transformed them into what I call the Fashion Hearts Pink collection, designed to raise awareness and support women diagnosed with breast and gynecological cancers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5BBrM2PPyU0/Ti2w9XHEpOI/AAAAAAAAAVk/ZHT6k_P8Kqo/s1600/IMG-20110724-01952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5BBrM2PPyU0/Ti2w9XHEpOI/AAAAAAAAAVk/ZHT6k_P8Kqo/s320/IMG-20110724-01952.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fashion Hearts Pink</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBcGAx-IV9s/Ti2-17fcw8I/AAAAAAAAAWg/12haBSZdCpg/s1600/IMG-20110724-01953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBcGAx-IV9s/Ti2-17fcw8I/AAAAAAAAAWg/12haBSZdCpg/s320/IMG-20110724-01953.jpg" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-miFHJQvwO2w/TimCOPjnirI/AAAAAAAAAU0/BUESeGtH5iI/s1600/IMG-20110722-01933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-miFHJQvwO2w/TimCOPjnirI/AAAAAAAAAU0/BUESeGtH5iI/s320/IMG-20110722-01933.jpg" t$="true" width="287" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div>Last year this time I never even entertained the thought that I would be making my own jewellery, and making it to support a cause greater than myself. As numerology would have it, this is truly my Year of Expansion!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-69181509182143915372011-07-14T12:33:00.003-04:002011-07-15T09:20:16.316-04:00AnKe Accessories, "Hankhy" AbsSince jumping on the beaded jewellery-making bandwagon, word of mouth has spread my services like wildfire! (Thanks to me and my big mouth lol) I was approached with a special order: make a Y-necklace with red beads.<br />
<br />
As a budding jewellery designer, I welcomed the opportunity to challenge myself. It would be my first necklace, and my first client request.<br />
<br />
I know my client well- an ankh lover like myself, infatuated with the esoteric, has a commanding presence and is uber sexy. I made him a one-of-a-kind necklace befitting of his personality. <br />
<br />
He loves it! I asked him to send me a picture of himself wearing the necklace...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1avAnVbOE1M/Th70MgXYNwI/AAAAAAAAATk/tJ-bDLkM494/s1600/Beadazzled+abs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1avAnVbOE1M/Th70MgXYNwI/AAAAAAAAATk/tJ-bDLkM494/s320/Beadazzled+abs.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Chip n' Dale" Presents: An Anke Accessory Exclusive</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wanted the pic to showcase my beaded masterpiece. Not quite the pic I had in mind but I certainly like what I see! I'm not even going to pretend like I'm talking about the necklace (even though I think I did a damn good job for my first one). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As with all the jewellery I will make, part proceeds from this necklace will be donated to <a href="http://www.theolivebranch.ca/">The Olive Branch of Hope</a> Breast Cancer Support Services. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Great "ab"vertising, eh?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-80777754080489448902011-07-08T11:02:00.003-04:002011-07-28T09:57:19.888-04:00Beadazzled for Breast CancerFor many years I have done a lot of lip service saying I wanted to learn how to make my own jewellery. All talk, no action...until now.<br />
<br />
My childhood friend Lisa Sterling, <a href="http://www.swaymag.ca/">Sway Magazine</a> account exec turned entrepreneur is planning an event, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/The-LuvLi-Ladies-Show/216475748383646">The LuvLi Ladies Show</a> "where fashion meets healthcare" this month, July 24th. It will feature <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stacey_McKenzie">Stacey McKenzie</a>, supermodel and runway coach on Canada's Next Top Model among other noteworthy guests and speakers.<br />
<br />
Additionally, the event will promote breast cancer awareness on behalf of the <a href="http://www.theolivebranch.ca/">The Olive Branch of Hope</a> Breast Cancer Support Services, a community-based non-profit organization, helping E.A.S.E the lives of women with breast and gynecologic cancers. (<strong>E</strong>ducate, <strong>A</strong>dvocate, <strong>S</strong>upport and <strong>E</strong>mpower!)<br />
<br />
I had a bright idea: why not use this event as an opportunity to get crafty and raise money at the same time? I will make cute, breast cancer inspired jewellery, sell it at the event, and donate the proceeds to The Olive Branch of Hope! <br />
<br />
As spokesperson and resource development manager for TOBOH I'm always thinking of new ways to promote the organization and support such a worthy cause. It's a win-win situation.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n5e2Ijk2L8g/ThcFFX7ZtwI/AAAAAAAAATQ/eL4lfc2DyeA/s1600/beadazzled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n5e2Ijk2L8g/ThcFFX7ZtwI/AAAAAAAAATQ/eL4lfc2DyeA/s320/beadazzled.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Beadazzled" for Breast Cancer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Between now and July 24th, I embark on an adventure to turn these beads into beautiful earrings and bracelets. I picked out pink beads (for breast cancer), turquoise beads (for gynecologic cancer) and white beads to be used as accents.<br />
<br />
I will share the fyne and fabulous "Designs by Anke" in the weeks to come. I am tr<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">è</span>s excit<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">ée</span>!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-74633105956025799822011-06-25T14:52:00.011-04:002011-06-25T23:06:06.615-04:00When More is Just Enough: Betsey JohnsonNothing compares to the feeling I get when I catch a glimpse of a pair red soled Christian Louboutin pumps, but the sensation I get from a good BJ does come a close second.<br />
<br />
Get your mind out the gutter! I'm referring to Betsey Johnson. She puts her own eccentric spin on women's shoes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BOf_80CGxqU/TgVgs-6xYTI/AAAAAAAAASE/azFpoyYTshU/s1600/BJ+cropped+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BOf_80CGxqU/TgVgs-6xYTI/AAAAAAAAASE/azFpoyYTshU/s320/BJ+cropped+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betsey Johnson Pumps: Holt Renfrew</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I love her as a designer because her style is care-free, flirty, sexy and feminine. Her personality shines through every detail of her designs, down to the packaging. These shoes came in a hot pink box with leopard print tissue paper, her name branded in gold.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oZuRfp5MF9Q/TgX68LpfxwI/AAAAAAAAASk/97ZPo9ZD-Dw/s1600/black+dress+full+length.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oZuRfp5MF9Q/TgX68LpfxwI/AAAAAAAAASk/97ZPo9ZD-Dw/s320/black+dress+full+length.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LBD: Style Exchange</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I wore them with this cute LBD for a night out on the town!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mB0GZO_UO0/TgX78dT_yrI/AAAAAAAAASw/L1BdLGWHRS0/s1600/Black+dress+zoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mB0GZO_UO0/TgX78dT_yrI/AAAAAAAAASw/L1BdLGWHRS0/s320/Black+dress+zoom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ikojcNEkn9M/TgVguZKIrVI/AAAAAAAAASI/GXdcivUhR24/s1600/BJ+cropped+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ikojcNEkn9M/TgVguZKIrVI/AAAAAAAAASI/GXdcivUhR24/s320/BJ+cropped+3.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
Can you see that the dress and shoes have the same pattern of shiny black polkadots on matte black? A subtle yet significant detail that makes the look come together nicely.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QT9a7M8O3Vk/TgVgu9dgI6I/AAAAAAAAASM/p6H3BA634m8/s1600/BJ+cropped+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QT9a7M8O3Vk/TgVgu9dgI6I/AAAAAAAAASM/p6H3BA634m8/s320/BJ+cropped+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The level of detail that has gone into these black and gold pumps is awe-inspiring. From the butterfly in-soles, to the rhinestone ankle buckle to the shiny heart emblem mounted onto a rose decorated sole... Wow!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snFQNmbtGVU/TgVgnVMQ-OI/AAAAAAAAASA/-Zk9L4BsmNs/s1600/BJ+cropped+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snFQNmbtGVU/TgVgnVMQ-OI/AAAAAAAAASA/-Zk9L4BsmNs/s320/BJ+cropped+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
It's hard to see, but the banner on the heart charm says "Betsey Johnson". Her stamp is everywhere!<br />
<br />
It is truly a gift to be able to create something that could be labelled wild, over-embellished and over-the-top and make it look trendy, sexy and timeless.<br />
<br />
Can we say, Fab-tastic?!!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-8239751476682127562011-06-16T17:14:00.003-04:002011-06-17T09:33:11.130-04:00Get Colour Happy on a Crappy DayWhat do meteorologists and Tim Horton's workers have in common? They can constantly get the weather or your order wrong and still manage to keep their jobs!<br />
<br />
The plan: Have a hot date on a hot day in Niagara Falls. I got one out of two.<br />
<br />
I specifically downloaded the Weather Network app to keep a close eye on weather. Before I went to sleep so my spirit could rejuvenate and ready itself in the astral plane for the following day's highly anticipated blissful excursion at the Falls I checked the forecast. Sunny with a few clouds, a high of 21<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">˚C, and 87% humidity. Okay, not sweltering hot, but it'll do.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Less than 12 hrs later, I wake up, re-check the forecast and am unpleasantly [not] surprised. The forecast has changed. Cloudly, expected showers in the afternoon, humidex of 56%, and a high of 19<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">˚C. It felt much colder than that because of the winds. Argh!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Grey skies, no sun, no problem. I put on a colourful sun dress and matching accessories.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kfgqWRbS-Ic/TfjTcgZMx_I/AAAAAAAAARU/qNex01K3zFA/s1600/Niagara+Falls+IMG-20110613-01631+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kfgqWRbS-Ic/TfjTcgZMx_I/AAAAAAAAARU/qNex01K3zFA/s400/Niagara+Falls+IMG-20110613-01631+cropped.jpg" t8="true" width="180" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I bought the dress at Urban Planet for $10. The earrings I got at Aldo Accessories last season. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I had actually wanted to return them because even though I loved them, I thought the neon vibrancy was perhaps a bit immature looking for someone my age. I kept them, not that I had a choice, they were non-refundable.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I cinched my waist with a wide yellow belt. The width of the belt is so last year but the colour is so this year! Watevs. I took a page out of Tim Gunn's book and <em>made it work</em>!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Notice that I'm wearing my espadrille wedges and multi-coloured mirror shades.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mW7RIDuUCwI/TfjTc9XuQwI/AAAAAAAAARc/HDWhRbA21Mw/s1600/Niagara+Falls+IMG-20110613-01633+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mW7RIDuUCwI/TfjTc9XuQwI/AAAAAAAAARc/HDWhRbA21Mw/s320/Niagara+Falls+IMG-20110613-01633+crop.jpg" t8="true" width="267" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I would label my outfit as a polychromatic monochromatic look (not gonna explain, think about it).</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I threw on a high-collared shoulder shrug (aka "boob warmer" according to my brother-in-law) to ward off the cool draft. The ruffled trim compliments the smocked flower print dress.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">It turned out to be a perfect day in spite of the weather.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">With the right company, the right attitude and the right outfit you can turn a crappy day into a happy day, any day!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-34878859441453985722011-06-10T11:29:00.003-04:002011-06-10T11:56:20.572-04:00Nowhere to Hide: Mirror SunglassesLast week Friday I went out with a group of friends to celebrate a birthday. In search of an outdoor patio that had not yet reached full occupancy, we ended up at Hooters.<br />
<br />
As we waited for our wings and french fries, I felt it was a good time for a photo op:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6nbHguTeXs/TeuMjf_T44I/AAAAAAAAAKk/HogSWfELR84/s1600/mirror+sunglasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6nbHguTeXs/TeuMjf_T44I/AAAAAAAAAKk/HogSWfELR84/s320/mirror+sunglasses.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silver Mirrored Sunglasses</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The roof top patio has a great view of Toronto's infamous obelisk, the CN Tower. (Egyptian lore hidden in plain sight.)<br />
<br />
Seeing my friend's pair of image reflective shades, I remembered I had a pair of my own stashed away somewhere.<br />
<br />
I had a hard time taking pictures of myself in these sunglasses. In most of the snapshots you could actually see the reflection of my bedazzled fingertips clenched around my Blackberry Torch.<br />
<br />
I managed to capture a half decent photo but debated posting it for public viewing as it reveals the furnishings of the foyer in the personal space I call home. Nevertheless, here it is:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7B9mnJ5f4kc/TeuMjqCVV7I/AAAAAAAAAKo/vHBDEpB7jQg/s1600/mirror+sunglasses+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7B9mnJ5f4kc/TeuMjqCVV7I/AAAAAAAAAKo/vHBDEpB7jQg/s320/mirror+sunglasses+2.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multi-Coloured Mirrored Sunglasses: Claire's</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The staircase is one my favourite parts of the house. The kid in me gets a kick out of sliding down the smooth wooden banister. It's risky business, ya know! One faulty move and you could wind up in the basement kissing the concrete floor!<br />
<br />
<em>Ouch!</em>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-65843663656220305922011-06-08T14:42:00.004-04:002011-06-10T11:54:50.348-04:00Crack Ain't Whack Pt. 3: My MJ'sWhen I originally made this post on Wednesday, I titled it <strong>Crack Ain't Whack Pt. 3: Camouflage</strong> because of how well my nail design blended into the tube top I was wearing (see pic below). <br />
<br />
Now it's Friday, and I've had a couple days to oogle at my nails and have begun to affectionately call them my "MJ's" (short for "Michael Jackson nails"). <br />
<br />
The question of why I would call them that I would assume is a rhetorical one since the answer is black and white... (pun intended)<br />
<br />
This is the original post:<br />
<br />
I haven't officially ended my relationship with OPI Shatter nail polish just yet. We've agreed to work on things- it will perform it's duties as best it can, and I won't be so judgmental if it doesn't live up to my expectations... Yup, I'm a hard woman to please! (Juss jokes! <em>wink wink</em>)<br />
<br />
Moving along, I tried some "crack" for the third time. My high has not yet reached the sky. It's certainly better than my last "hit", but I'm not tripped out. I went with a variation which my esthetician, who's Vietnamese, calls "upside down". <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1wpV84dd8A/Te-LnPD4jnI/AAAAAAAAAOw/igWXtLPN_Xs/s1600/Crack+aint+whack-+camouflage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1wpV84dd8A/Te-LnPD4jnI/AAAAAAAAAOw/igWXtLPN_Xs/s400/Crack+aint+whack-+camouflage.JPG" t8="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left Hand: white polish base and OPI Black Shatter on top<br />
Right Hand: black polish base and OPI White Shatter on top</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
It turned out better than I had anticipated; then again, my expectations were pretty low. Overall, I give my nails a 7.5 out of 10. I dislike the crack patterns on a few of my fingers. However, it's not as obvious, or as hideous, as the last time (<a href="http://fyneandfab.blogspot.com/search/label/Nail%20Files">Crack Ain't Whack Pt. 2</a>).<br />
<br />
One good thing about Shatter is that no one will notice if you smudge a nail. I smudged the nail on my right thumb putting on my seatbelt after leaving the nail salon. Normally that would be classified Code Orange on my fyne-n-fab-o-meter, but even for a perfectionist like me, I have no need to freak out.<br />
<br />
Looks like the love/hate relationship continues (at least for another 2 weeks)."AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-4369597444973192852011-06-06T00:28:00.008-04:002011-06-08T16:18:00.100-04:00Wedgies that Feel GoodI'm not referring to the wedgies that go up your <em>youknowwhat.</em> I mean the "wedgies" that go on your feet! What's great about wedge heels is that unlike regular heels, they give you the height minus discomfort (well, maybe not all wedge shoes feel comfortable but I've been pretty lucky so far). You can wear them for hours, pas de probleme!<br />
<br />
I just bought a pair of cross-strapped, platform, espadrille "wedgies" from Le Chateau. I had been window shopping a week ago when I saw them. I went back a few days later after work and picked up a pair in black. Within the one and a half hour ride home indecision got the best of me and I had buyer's remorse for choosing the black wedge sandals. I exchanged them for the wheat-coloured pair that same evening and am happy I did. It really should have been my first choice. Beige <em>is</em> the new black, just less severe.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrL56wiJtDk/Tewx_GHFRUI/AAAAAAAAAK8/jRi6uanLfN0/s1600/wedgies+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nrL56wiJtDk/Tewx_GHFRUI/AAAAAAAAAK8/jRi6uanLfN0/s320/wedgies+2.jpg" t8="true" width="220" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0J4ifg2S3B4/Te_YFqqLn6I/AAAAAAAAAPw/Fn_NhXiOUTI/s1600/wedgies+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0J4ifg2S3B4/Te_YFqqLn6I/AAAAAAAAAPw/Fn_NhXiOUTI/s320/wedgies+1.jpg" t8="true" width="233" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
These will be my go-to shoes when I'm going for a casual-chic look. Sun-dresses, denim shorts and lace tee, jersey rompers, palazzo pants... Styling options are easy, effortless and seemingly endless!<br />
<br />
Whether I'm going to a matinee with the bffs or spending a day at the amusement park with the fam, I'm going to skip the flats and sneakers for my new comfy street walkers.<br />
<br />
"These shoes were made for walkin'..."<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-22820057386095649882011-06-01T16:30:00.007-04:002011-06-06T16:59:19.419-04:00Fyne & Fab Femme: Eva Marcille<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>OMG this pic is GORGEOUS!! ANTM Cycle 3 winner Eva Marcille, (whom I still like to call "Eva the Diva") is looking fyne and fabulous for <em>The Desert Goddess</em> fashion spread of VIBE Vixen magazine's July issue. Another fyne & fab chick, Amber Rose is the cover girl this month for the parent magazine VIBE, out on stands June 7. <br />
<br />
I am definitely gonna grab a copy for the archives. Fyi my magazine collection dates all the way back to 1994!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZrvfiiyASI/TeaNEDqetzI/AAAAAAAAAJo/JolrSQKpkYs/s1600/Earrings+Eva+the+Diva+Vibe+Mag.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZrvfiiyASI/TeaNEDqetzI/AAAAAAAAAJo/JolrSQKpkYs/s320/Earrings+Eva+the+Diva+Vibe+Mag.jpg" t8="true" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I've always loved pics like this because they remind me of the posters I used to see on the walls of the Jamaican food store <em>Nicey's, </em>when I went grocery shopping with my dad as a kid back in '80s. The models were always on a beach, their bodies covered with sand or water-drenched; perfect sun-kissed skin, bright orange-red lipstick (no lip liner) and wearing a rastafarian-coloured bikini with a mesh crop-top overlay.<br />
<br />
I think it's the narcissistic side of me that likes this pic so much. I can totally see myself modeling these gorgeous shoulder grazing, victorian chandelier earrings!<br />
<br />
I wonder if I could transpose my face into this photog without anyone noticing...<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipWgg0tF6y0/TeeTYpUTvEI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/BzZzHbRJRNs/s1600/anonymous+hijacker.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipWgg0tF6y0/TeeTYpUTvEI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/BzZzHbRJRNs/s320/anonymous+hijacker.JPG" t8="true" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Desert Goddess 2.0"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Airbrushing is not my friend. Oh wells! hehe"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-45541682466910989782011-05-29T18:59:00.004-04:002011-06-03T14:41:38.169-04:00Prism Break: Polychromatic Accessories Wear the rainbow! Prismatic jewellery is so beautiful to me. I love the way these chameleon-esque gems pick up the dominant colour in an outfit. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BuXlkFFSrKc/TeGLhHU7YPI/AAAAAAAAAI4/peg_JqppMyg/s1600/prism+break5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BuXlkFFSrKc/TeGLhHU7YPI/AAAAAAAAAI4/peg_JqppMyg/s200/prism+break5.jpg" t8="true" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chandelier Earrings: Panache</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0fRf4u1WuwY/TeGLcWj8ZVI/AAAAAAAAAI0/6rWUc-3S6oY/s1600/prism+break+revision.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0fRf4u1WuwY/TeGLcWj8ZVI/AAAAAAAAAI0/6rWUc-3S6oY/s200/prism+break+revision.jpg" t8="true" width="92" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">They are also the perfect splash of colour to enhance a sexy LBD. The light-reflective properties make such accessories easily wearable </div>with just about every colour you have in your closet.<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">One of my secret style fetishes are cufflinks. Since I was a child, I always thought my dad looked so daper when he dressed up in a three-piece suit and finished it off with cufflinks and matching tie pin. I think that at least one pair of cufflinks is a must-have in every woman's jewellery collection. I bought this pair of cufflinks (below) at a thrift shop on Queen St. W a few years back. The salesperson claimed they were from the "Austin Powers" era. (A really good sales pitch perhaps?) <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TUa96JuQnk/TeLLBsYzSDI/AAAAAAAAAJc/btNaag-Lb94/s1600/prism+break13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TUa96JuQnk/TeLLBsYzSDI/AAAAAAAAAJc/btNaag-Lb94/s200/prism+break13.jpg" t8="true" width="133" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BGdLp8jYZrk/TeGLi3Vzj4I/AAAAAAAAAJA/thyxy7593CU/s1600/prism+break7+revision.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BGdLp8jYZrk/TeGLi3Vzj4I/AAAAAAAAAJA/thyxy7593CU/s200/prism+break7+revision.jpg" t8="true" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prismatic Cufflinks</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I think they would have a nice "peak-a-boo" effect on this soft yellow suit; a subtle accent on the sleeve of the blouse. <em>Shagadelic!</em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-46733465573745172512011-05-22T22:00:00.000-04:002011-06-09T23:00:21.274-04:00Don't Step Out Without Your "Stilettos"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RxNgI3Urr7E/TdkwV6XegwI/AAAAAAAAAII/2twWQ8SpMe4/s1600/Maybelline+Stiletto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RxNgI3Urr7E/TdkwV6XegwI/AAAAAAAAAII/2twWQ8SpMe4/s200/Maybelline+Stiletto.jpg" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybelline New York Stiletto </td></tr>
</tbody></table>For me, gone are the days when I could splurge on $30+ mascara. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I had to break my love affair with Chanel's Inimitable mascara and have been looking for a replacement since.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I have fallen in love with Maybelline New York's Lash Stiletto Voluptuous in Very Black and Line Stiletto Ultimate Precision</div>Liquid Liner in Blackest Black. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
My eyes are defined and my lashes are longer than life! The Stiletto duo with a wash of champagne coloured shimmer dust on the eyes makes for the ultimate seductive "smize"! </div> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysOAhSryXcE/Tdkwhhv_k2I/AAAAAAAAAIM/jcF8qXyLkng/s1600/smize1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysOAhSryXcE/Tdkwhhv_k2I/AAAAAAAAAIM/jcF8qXyLkng/s320/smize1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, smizing... or at least trying to</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Now, with or without my sunglasses, my eyes are the centre of attention!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-64181549693546369102011-05-19T11:14:00.011-04:002011-06-09T17:03:47.579-04:00Shady Disgueyes: Retro ShadesRetro chic sunglasses are taking over this summer! Haute couture ensembles of bold prints and vibrant colours were accentuated with eccentric throw-back shades in just about every spring/summer collection for 2011.<br />
<br />
A few of my top favourite designs came from Tom Ford, Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1DIoFQEzx0/TdUh6sBl_lI/AAAAAAAAAHM/a405mAxst5M/s1600/shady+disgueyes+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1DIoFQEzx0/TdUh6sBl_lI/AAAAAAAAAHM/a405mAxst5M/s320/shady+disgueyes+2.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As soon as I saw the sunglasses trends for the season, I dug up a pair of sunglasses I had buried in a drawer for what seems like eons. I bought them about 10 years ago. (I definitely have the potential to be a hoarder.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I thought about just rocking those for the summer but thinking that made me queasy. I can't possibly wear one measly pair of old- excuse me, I mean "vintage", sunglasses all summer. I need options!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really like how some of the newer shades are like a hybrid between the cat-eye shape and oversized lenses of seasons past. I found an awesome pair of turtoiseshell shades at the Urban Outfitters on Queen St. W. I have named them "Ankeita" in admiration of the Nikita sunglasses by Tom Ford.</div> <br />
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z9ZcjZWg6BM/TdU5oYRNxyI/AAAAAAAAAHY/DxJ3hWJPrsQ/s1600/In+retrospecs+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z9ZcjZWg6BM/TdU5oYRNxyI/AAAAAAAAAHY/DxJ3hWJPrsQ/s320/In+retrospecs+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Retrospecs: Sunglasses from the Past & Present</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
In keeping with the beauty trends of the summer, I will be rocking lipsticks that could have been inspired by a pack of tropical flavoured Skittles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Above On the Left: I'm wearing Giorgio Armani Cosmetics Silk Lipstick #13</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Above On the Right: I'm wearing MAC Lipstick in Morange</div><br />
I am sooo ready for summer! Now if only the sun would come out and stay for a while. Damn sun of a beach!"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-53461924527179999092011-05-18T10:01:00.011-04:002011-06-06T00:31:41.876-04:00Crack Ain't Whack Pt. 2 (On Second Thought...)Now I understand why I wasn't too quick to jump on this "crack craze". I am somewhat of a perfectionist with the motto "If you want something done right, do it yourself." Having to put my faith in the artificial intelligence of a polish formula made with a purported ground breaking, sophisticated technology cooked up by some fashion senseless scientist is absolutely absurd; <em>especially</em> for someone as particular as I am.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>I chose to apply Naylene #D5 with the Magenta Shatter on top of my ring fingers and thumbs. What a disaster! The colour combo was cool, but the crack- WAS WHACK! What happened to the artistic fancies from the first time? My thumb is a HAM.com (hot ass mess)!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b39wXTfS010/TdPJ21T8nVI/AAAAAAAAAGs/eo0ibyf-QoM/s1600/Where+is+the+crack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b39wXTfS010/TdPJ21T8nVI/AAAAAAAAAGs/eo0ibyf-QoM/s200/Where+is+the+crack.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shatter in Shambles</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It irked me so much I woke up at 5:40am on Tuesday, 41min before my alarm goes off. By 6:30am I was fully dressed, coat and scarf on to boot (for smudge-prevention). I then removed the Shatter disaster and replaced it with Fiercely Fiona by OPI. What an improvement!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVRA6j_lVv0/TdPLz5aA_8I/AAAAAAAAAGw/kbgT4o0J8P8/s1600/Whack+Crack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVRA6j_lVv0/TdPLz5aA_8I/AAAAAAAAAGw/kbgT4o0J8P8/s400/Whack+Crack.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Now I can shamelessly go out in public feeling so fresh and so spring!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-61255753443349049762011-05-15T14:01:00.002-04:002011-06-03T14:41:38.169-04:00Block Party: Dare to be Seen this Summer<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDLo3PGeuKs/TdAMODecoGI/AAAAAAAAAGU/TqqQqYdfcm4/s1600/Block+Party+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDLo3PGeuKs/TdAMODecoGI/AAAAAAAAAGU/TqqQqYdfcm4/s200/Block+Party+1.jpg" width="146" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bangles: Aldo Accessories</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div>Colour blocking is one of the major fashion trends for this spring/summer season. I absolutely love the bright, vibrant, bold, candy colours! It makes me want to jet set to a Caribbean island and <br />
lay ocean -side with a plate of exotic, citrus fruit and a glass of blue lagoon on ice that match my two-piece and retro shades. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRpfPM3B5Dg/Tc_9SykfSiI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/24vj3l32tbE/s1600/Block+Party+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRpfPM3B5Dg/Tc_9SykfSiI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/24vj3l32tbE/s200/Block+Party+2.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Necklace: H&M</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div>Back to the reality of my 9 to 5 however. I'ma add these colour rich accessories to a crisp white shirt and high-waisted flare jeans for a look that's <em>bold and beautiful!</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1636926075807021716.post-32171469169592012772011-05-11T13:43:00.001-04:002011-06-06T00:31:41.876-04:00Crack Ain't Whack Pt. 1A few weeks ago I went to the nail salon where my esthetician suggested I try the new Shatter nail polish from OPI. I opted for a gold coloured bottom coat with the Black Shatter on top. I admit it wasn't love at first sight, but I've become increasingly fond of the peculiar, cracked patterns of art on my fingertips. I will continue to experiment with different colour combinations over the next few months, so stay tuned...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-GTZcISYDY/TcrIa5w2DoI/AAAAAAAAAC8/FAH8yleHVoQ/s1600/IMG-20110502-00146+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-GTZcISYDY/TcrIa5w2DoI/AAAAAAAAAC8/FAH8yleHVoQ/s320/IMG-20110502-00146+-+Copy.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Shatter Nail Polish by OPI</td></tr>
</tbody></table>"AnKe"http://www.blogger.com/profile/10221702224302659910noreply@blogger.com0