EmiliaStyle

Spring Wardrobe Wishlist | Style

Living in Montreal, I sometimes forget that spring is one of our four seasons. While it may be one of the shorter ones, it does become an exciting time again to change up my wardrobe and inspire my upcoming summer favourites. Spring allows us to pull out our dresses and pair them with our favourite winter staples that we don't want to/ can't put away just yet.

I think it's also an exciting time because it allows us to go out and shop and enjoy being outside without a thousand layers to keep us warm. Now as I'm writing this down, I'm also doing a little bit of online shopping.... so.. so much for being outdoors. BUT I love doing some research online and then, on a day off, go out and see what's in the shops.

Now, having rambled on long enough, I thought I'd create a wishlist of all my favourite spring items that would be great additions as both trend pieces and key basics.

| Clockwise - House of Harlow Bell Sleeve Top // Aritzia Cut Out Shirt
Aritzia Lilac Dress // Aritzia Trench Coat |

Off the shoulder pieces are not leaving us anytime soon and I'm absolutely loving this pink trend at the moment. I'm all for adding a feminine piece to an otherwise very relaxed or androgynous look, I think it adds that much more dimension to your outfit.

| Clockwise - Glamorous Jean Jacket // FCUK Black Sweater
Glamorous Embroidered Bomber // Topshop Embroidered Jeans |

Sticking along with this relaxed, feminine vibe I'm so inspired by, embroidered items are making a huge comeback. I remember it being so cool as a kid in the 90's and I'm all for emulating those "cool kids" vibes. While it may not be on the elegant side of things, I do think there's a beauty in wearing oversized pieces but still keeping in feminine. And finally with the mom jean coming back from last summer, I think it's a great way to wear a loose fitted jean that gives just a slightly more flattering silhouette then a boyfriend style would.

| Clockwise- Vans Sneakers // Illesteva Sunglasses //
Zara Backpack // Public Desire Heels |

When it comes to accessories, I'm a sucker for a pretty backpack. I know it's not the sexist and there are thousands of gorgeous handbags out there (and trust me, I lust for them all) but summer to me is all about effortless and "spur of the moment" style. I think backpacks pair so well with that and if you can find one out there (like this Zara one) that's both practical and cute, why not have some fun and let your arms be free. In the winter, you'll most likely see me in a heeled boot, but in the summer time, unless I've got an event, its running shoes all day. Vans are my top pick for looks and comfort but there are so many styles and brands to choose from that your options are endless. Now during a night out, you bet I'll be pairing a heel with my favourite little dress. Finally, I don't leave the house without a pair of sunnies and let's face it, these may be on my very own list ;)

I hope these pieces have inspired some of your own spring wish lists or at the very least gotten you excited for the season. Let me know what you're favourite new accessories or pieces are and I'll be sure to blame you for my online shopping addiction :) xx

- Emilia

10:02
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My Ultimate Nude Lipsticks | Beauty

Beauty Blogger

Oh yes, I am fully committed to those nudes.
I used to stay away from them with a 10 foot pole. They were all too light and beige for me and I would end up looking sick, or just plain weird... like I was trying to hard. And yet, when they started getting really popular, I really wanted to fit in with the rest of the beauty community... social pressures amirite?
So this time last year, I started experimenting with different shades and realized that there was more to the trend then just a washed out, pale lip. I found my niche in the brown-mauve colours that were classic nudes but darker. That's when I realized not only could I finally join the trend, but I also found a new shade of lipstick that could join my ever growing collection. Not only are there some mauvy-pinks, berry shades but now I welcome nudes with open arms.

Today, I thought I'd showcase my top 5 shades that I wear on an everyday basis. I've also tried to get different types of formulations so that I cover all the bases. In my stash, I have a mix of mattes, liquid lipsticks, sheers and creams. Hopefully these help you discover a new formula/shade or give you the confidence to try something completely different and experiment with your lipstick colours.

L-R: Estée Lauder // Burberry // M.A.C // NYX // Kat Von D |

Estée Lauder Pure Envy Sculpting Lipstick in "Irrisistible": I've spoken about this shade before but I'll mention it again simply because it's one of my most worn lipsticks. This nude is on the more pinky side but still has quite a few brown tones in the mix. I also love the finish, the colour is strong but it's not a matte so it's not drying. The formulation is comfortable on the lips and I can reapply without worrying about needing a mirror. A definite win right here.
Burberry Kisses Sheer in "221- Light Brown": I ordered this at the beginning of the year and wasn't sure if it was going to suit me. But on the contrary, I reach for it all the time. Again one of those shades that I can just throw on without a mirror and I know I'm good to go. It's a lighter brown then I'm use to but because of the sheer quality it gives a beautiful sheen. The formula of the Burberry lipsticks is one of the best, simply because of how comfortable they are and they don't dry out patchy throughout the day. This range also has a beautiful range of colours and it's definitely tempting to pick up a few more shades
M.A.C Matte Lipstick in "Velvet Teddy": My ride or die lipstick, I don't know what I did without this colour in my collection. *I swear I'm not always this dramatic ;) This is a perfect blend of pink and nude but with also has some beige undertones. During these winter months, when I feel like my skin is a little too dull and pale for a true nude, I love reaching for this because it brings a natural makeup look to life. While it is a matte finish, it wears really well throughout the day and my lips don't feel uncomfortable or damaged at the end of a long day. One little note is that I would recommend exfoliating your lips every few days.

NYX Soft Matte Cream in "04-London": Out of all the NYX liquid lipstick formulations, these are by far my favourite. They aren't super drying, nor do they seep into the lines of your lips. I also love that the creams have a matte finish but the pigment isn't very intense so the colour sits quite naturally on the lips. The shade "London" won out but "Stockholm" came in a close second. The colour is slightly darker which means I can grab it much more frequently throughout the seasons, while "Stockholm" has some orange/coral tones in it- perfect for warmer, sunnier days.
Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in "Bow N Arrow": Out of all my liquid lipsticks, this is my most used. Throughout the summer, I worn this religiously and while I don't grab for it everyday at the moment, it's still my favourite liquid formulation. Yes, the finish it matte, so it is drying but out of all the ones I've tried, Kat Von D are my favourite. I think this colour is great for nights out because it gives such a bold statement. A true nude colour, it's the perfect shade of brown for lighter skin tones.

There you have it, my winning nude lipsticks. Let me know which are your favourites and how many times you had to remind yourself that we were talking about makeup products and not inappropriate pictures ;) *None? Just me? Ok I'll get my mind out of the gutter* xx

-Emilia

07:35
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Sunday Loves: Face Masks | Beauty

Beauty Blogger

I don't think I'm alone when I say that I love me a good face mask. There's something so calming about applying one after a long day out and about. As it's a Sunday, the International Day of Relaxation/Rejuvenation, what better topic then that of skincare and face masks. Swoon.

For a while, I wasn't very consistent about applying them and I truly wondered just how useful/beneficial they were. Fortunately, I was quickly converted once I starting applying them on a regular basis and invested in getting the Right Ones. Finding the right masks for your skin can get a little overwhelming but fear not, I'm here to let you know about my top 5 favourites.

Firstly, I should point out that I've got combination/oily skin, that's quite acne prone and I deal with redness. So, after saying that, these products are going to focus on those issues. That means if you've got super dry skin with issues or blackheads and irritation, I can't guarantee they'll work the same.

The Body Shop are a great first stop if you're new to the whole face mask world. They've got a great selection for varying skin types and the prices are super reasonable. My favourites from them are the Tea Tree Skin Skin Clearing Clay Mask and Drops of Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask. Tea Tree is fantastic for when my skin is really breaking out. I find it calms it down and while it doesn't clear right away, it soothes the irritated areas. I notice my blemishes don't seem so inflamed and it does prevent further breakouts.

I love using the Drops of Youth mask when it gets really cold in the city and my skin is looking dull and tired. I apply this one overnight and I automatically see a difference the following morning. I tend to use this one a little less regularly, but when it get really cold I'll whack it on every few days.

I try to exfoliate once a week. However, dealing with redness and sensitive skin, I'm always a little apprehensive when it comes to exfoliating scrubs. That is until I found this one from L'Oreal. The L'Oreal Skin Experts Treatment Mask Exfoliate and Refine Pores (that's a mouthful) is great because it isn't too harsh and I don't notice it irritating my skin. I apply this with a brush and focus on my T-zone area, that way I can control how much goes on my skin and can avoid all sensitive areas (i.e under eye).

This Origins Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask is probably my most used. It's a clay mask that targets irritation but also doesn't dry out my skin. As well, because you only need to leave it on for 10 minutes, it's such an easy thing to add to your evening routine. I like to use this during that special time of the month ;) when my skin and I just aren't cooperating. This really is my trusted sidekick that I can always reach for and know exactly how it'll work on me.

I would say that my newest edition is this Boscia Luminizing Black Mask. I like to use this to target the excess oil (that's a gorgeous picture isn't it?) because it just clears up any dullness. The only thing I'll mention about this is you need to be precise with this mask because it is a peel-off so getting any product stuck in your eyebrows... not all that fun.

I really do believe that adding a face mask to my routine is part of how I've got my skin to stabilize a little bit. Coming from a background that was always about hiding my face with layers of makeup, masks have been able to sooth my skin and in a way, helped me turn towards lighter foundations and even a few tinted moisturizers. xx

- Emilia

09:37
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2017 February Favourites | Beauty

Beauty Blogger

The shortest month of the year has passed and thank god we're moving into March. If you follow me on Instagram *hint*hint you can do that if you want ;)* then you'll know that I've been tricking myself in thinking I can change up my wardrobe for a warmer climate and put away my winter coats. If you don't live in Montreal, and you do live in a warmer climate, I'd like to personally ask if I can move in? Please and Thank You. The snow and minus 0 degree weather is still here and yes I can't wear my little sneakers outside just yet.

Nonetheless, let's move along from this conversation about the weather and talk about more important things and those are my favourite products of the month. While my list isn't long, the products that have made the cut hold small, special places in my heart.

Since mid-January I've changed up my mascara routine and I can happily blame Lydia (from Lydia Elise Millen) for it. I had seen her combine two L'Oreal mascaras to give her these large and voluminous lashes. So like the intrigued person I was, I reached for my best lengthening and voluminizing mascaras to see how they would pair together. Now I've always prided myself on having long lashes but this combo brought the intensity to another level. I'm talking about using the Clinique Lash Power Mascara and the L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt. What I love about this duo is that I get great definition from sculpt and fantastic length from the Clinique mascara. Overall, I think if you pick the right duos for what you want, you'll be set, but for now, there isn't a day when I'll opt for just one layer.

For years, I've been a full coverage foundation kind of girl. And yet, I could never find my holy grail foundation and I would come home after a long day wanting to rip my makeup off my face. I've slowly moved away from that and have started to test out medium coverage finishes or skin tints that can easily be built up. In comes the PIXI H2O Skin Tint Face Gel (in No.2 Nude). I love how light this is because it evens out the redness and then I can go in with a lighter coverage foundation (or just some concealer). I use so much less product and while I do end up adding a second step, I don't have that cake-y, heavy feeling throughout the day.

I have one hair product on my list but let me tell you, this little guy is a game changer. I'm talking about the OUAI Texturizing Hair Spray. I love applying this on freshly washed hair because it gives some added volume and grit to otherwise soft, flimsy hair. What I find so amazing about it is that it gives the added texture without that feeling like you have a bunch of product in your hair. I've actually started using this instead of dry shampoo because it works so much better.

I couldn't write this post up without talking about my ever trusty Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in "Pillowtalk". This isn't the first time I've mentioned this gem on the blog and it probably won't be the last. Between using it with it's lip liner or keeping it in my bag as my trustee sidekick, I've become hooked to this lipstick. I can't believe I've only had it for a month, it seems like it's been in my collection forever.
My last favourite is the Giorgio Armani Si Fragrance. As I mentioned a few posts ago, I've quickly fallen in love with this scent. I was in need of a new perfume and unsure of what to get and so I thought picking up a rollerball size would be perfect to test out a new one. Si has a gorgeous floral scent but with musky undertones which is right up my alley. My perfect scent for everyday.

All of these items have been great additions to my life this year but I can't always guarantee monthly favourites simply because I don't add that many pieces to collection. I'd love to know if you'd like similar posts though, such as favourite outfits of the month or anything like that. Leave a comment if you have any ideas! xx

- Emilia

09:46
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Winter 2017 Evening Skincare Routine | Beauty

Beauty Review

If you're like me, your evenings can be just as busy as the rest of your day. Whether it's doing more work for class, household chores or simply taking care of the kids, your evenings and days blend into one hectic mess.
However, if there's one thing I've learned in my many years on this earth (23 year old Grandma right here) is that taking 15-20 minutes to myself at the end of the night will save me millions on stress.
While I've always understood the importance of taking care of my skin, Thanks Mom!, it's taken me a fair few to connect that it's also a contributing factor to helping with elevated stress and anxiety.
Forcing myself to take 15-20 minutes to take my make-up off, wash and hydrate my skin allows me to take a breather and do something purely for myself. It also helps with my stress because I know I'm actively doing something to prevent breakouts and other skin problems.
My history with skin issues is quite long and yet super simple. I was that classic teen that dealt with acne from a young age and while it's gotten a lot better, I'm not at the state where I'll leave the house completely makeup free.
The biggest thing I've learnt is that simplifying my routine is key and avoid "overapplying", because it just suffocates my face.

When it comes to taking my makeup off, there really isn't much that's revolutionary, I use a combination of wipes and micellar water. On good days, I'll stick with the water (with some cotton pads) because it removes my makeup really well, without rubbing and irritating my skin. I love this Garnier one, but you can also never go wrong with Bioderma and Reversa. When it comes to makeup wipes, I'm not exactly a loyal customer. I just picked up these Simple Kind to Skin ones because you can't hear a bad review about them but Marcelle, Uriage and Bioderma (again) are just as good.

When it comes to actually cleansing my skin, I've fallen in love with the Vichy Normaderm Deep Cleansing Gel. It doesn't irritate my skin and has the right ingredients to control and prevent breakouts. On days when I don't feel like my skin is too dry and the redness on my cheeks isn't too irritated, I'll use a toner. I've noticed such a difference since adding this step and it's all thanks to the Clinique Clarifying Lotion. I tend to avoid using multiple products that specifically target acne prone skin because it can cause a lot of irritation and so this step works really well with the cleanser.

Finally to finish things off, I've really been enjoying the Vichy Idéalia moisturizer. I don't like using night creams because I find them too heavy and they easily clog up my pores, but this still gives me a good amount of hydration throughout the night.

Eye creams are the one thing that I'm a little fickle with and I think it's because I have yet to find the right one. Nevertheless, the Yves Rocher Hydra Vegetal Fresh Gel Undereye is the one I'm currently using. I have noticed that If I skip this step for a few days, the area can begin to dry up so clearly there is a need for an eye cream but I'm open to suggestions for a new one.

When it comes to lips, again anything that hydrates works for me. You can never go wrong with the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant and I've also been really been enjoying the Blistex Deep Renewal.

Light a few candles, put on your favourite music and take some time to just unwind. While makeup removal may seem like an annoying chore, it is a necessary part of your evening... unless you want your pillowcase to look like a Picasso piece. So instead of dreading it, find a way of making it useful to better yourself. xx

- Emilia

10:03
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Makeup Organization Hacks | Beauty

acrylic storage

Applying my makeup in the morning is one of my top things that wake me up. I actually love the process. Putting a podcast on, or listening to some music, I really do feel quite serene for those first 30 minutes of the day.

For the longest time, this took place on my bedroom floor, in front of a full length mirror. While that's perfectly fine, I had decided I wanted to declutter the space. Instead, of just pilling my makeup in a bag and on the floor, I moved everything into my washroom. It's clean, neat and there's enough natural light for any kind of makeup application *hint: you're also right by to the sink, so the laziness of having to go wet your beauty blender disappears. Your Welcome*. I found this fantastic acrylic organizer (here) and finally decided that I would attempt to make my storage look neater and sleeker.

This new set up as been wonderful in forcing me to cut down on my everyday makeup. These are the products I have the potential of using most frequently and if I need anything for a special occasion, I can go search in the rest of my collection. It's great because I don't loose products in a jumble of "stuff" and can clearly see what I own.

Now as we all pretty much know at this point, lipsticks are my ride or die. So it's only natural that I have a fair selection to choose from every morning. My nudes and darker pinks are the holy grails so I, of course, keep Velvet Teddy, Taupe and Plumful near me at all times.
This Estée Lauder Pure Colour Envy in Irristible is also a stunner that is a deep nude that is perfect to quickly throw on in a pinch. I've also been obsessed with this Burberry Kisses Sheer Lipstick lately because I love that I can apply it on-to-go without much thought with how it looks.
Just a sneak peak *if you want me to review this in a stand alone post, let me know ;) *, this is the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in "Pillowtalk". As soon as I saw that she had made this into a full on lipstick, I knew I had to have it. It's my all time favourite liner and their Canadian online store is so efficient and smooth. I had ordered this on a Thursday night (technically a Friday morning...#latenightshoppingproblems) and it was delivered on the following Monday- from Los Angeles and I didn't pay for express shipping. So service wise, they are.... 👌👌👌.

I really tried to limit what I kept in the organizer but after realizing how much space was available, I may have started to add a few more bits and bops. Nonetheless, I think I've done pretty well and I'm liking my options every morning. My makeup look is pretty basic for the everyday, especially when all I'm doing is going to class, but I stick with this PIXI Tinted Facial Gel, some concealer and big lashes.

Since compacting my everyday products and moving everything into my washroom, I've felt that my space is so much cleaner and efficient. My life isn't centered in one room anymore, but rather spread out and no longer so congested. It's been a great way of changing my living space without going out and spending a fortune. xx

- Emilia

09:52
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Modern Renaissance Palette | Beauty

Anastasia

Eyeshadow palette are one of those products I'll never tire from. They're just too amusing. How is it that there are soo many neutral ones out there and yet I can find an excuse to justify every single one? While I've given away a fair few, I always end up falling head over heels for the next new release.
Case in point: The Anastasia Modern Renaissance Palette. Now I know I'm a little late to the party, this was released back in late summer 2016...?? However, at the time, I was in my "no new palettes" zone. Fast forward a few months and this gem was under the Christmas tree. Any beauty lover out there (and I'm assuming that's all of us since you're reading this) knows that makeup is one of the best things you can receive.
So today, I thought I would share with you my impressions and my overall thoughts. Maybe they've already been told or maybe this will help someone decide if it's truly their next product purchase.

First thoughts, the colours are stunning. While it does have some neutral tones, I'm all for the popularity of warm, red-orange tones that seems to be growing everywhere. It was definitely a palette I saw myself using on a regular basis, as well as having a few colours that I could play around with for some fun evening looks.
The palette also comes with a brush and I'm not going to lie, it isn't bad. Would I use it instead of my holy grail Real Techniques? No. But if you're stuck in a pickle, it gets the job done. You've got one head for shading and the other is for blending. Basically, it's got you covered.

Now for the actual quality of the pigment; they've worked very well for me. The shades aren't chalky and I can use the lighter ones on an everyday basis without a primer. For more evening looks, or a smoky eye, I'd apply a primer just because, you'll start to see pretty significant fading without. They're also consistent, so you don't have to worry about a shadow that doesn't apply evenly. One thing to keep in mind is that I have noticed that there's quite a bit of fallout when you initially put your brush into the pigment. While that's not ideal, it doesn't hinder from the overall quality of the palette.

With all of that being said, I really do enjoy using the colours and playing around with these new shades. While I have yet to touch "Love Letter" and "Buon Presco", I'd say that's pretty good considering I'm using 12/14 shades. Overall, I'm very happy with the palette and if you're debating picking it up or not, I'd definitely recommend it. Quality wise it's up there and you'll get a great mix of casual and festive looks out of it! xx

- Emilia

10:17
18 Comments

Pages

Spring Wardrobe Wishlist | Style

My Ultimate Nude Lipsticks | Beauty

Sunday Loves: Face Masks | Beauty

2017 February Favourites | Beauty

Winter 2017 Evening Skincare Routine | Beauty

Makeup Organization Hacks | Beauty

Modern Renaissance Palette | Beauty

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