I’ve been seeing sheet cakes everywhere on social media lately, and I knew I needed to get in on the fun. It’s such an easy concept, in fact I’ve steered away from sheet cakes for years because of how simple they are, I often worried they lacked the visual impact I was going for when hosting an event. I always opted for a 3-4 layer show stopper, just to ensure to get that ‘wow’ when dessert was unveiled. I have fabulous news my friends, there is no longer a need for fussing over multiple pans, weighing the batter to guarantee even layers, trimming the sides or the top to perfection or sweating over the stacking. You can simply bake a cake in a single layer and then decorate it to your heart’s content. I cannot convey how much this makes my heart happy. At least half of the work of a triple decker, but allllllll of the impact of those tall boys. Trust me, I received all of the compliments when I presented this one tiered beauty. I used a recipe from my favourite go-to baker, Sweetapolita, and dyed the icing three different colours, making a saturated version and a softer version of each. I used various tips and topped it all off with Sweetapolita sprinkles. I went with a Valentine’s Day feel with all the pinks and reds and burgundys, but you can literally use any colours you want. I think you all know what you should be doing this weekend, and, you’re welcome.
Old Navy Hoodie, AGOLDE Denim, Mason by Michelle Mason Leopard Coat, Reebok Sneakers, Chanel Handbag
I had the opportunity to step away from winter and land right in paradise for a quick 48 hours with one of my most treasured humans, and it already feels like a dream. We spent our time in Maui running along the beach, taking epic walks amongst the lush trees and gorgeous flowers, soaking up the sun on the sand and dining at delicious restaurants. All without being asked to fetch a water bottle, change a diaper, referee a fight or pick up a toy for the 15,732 time that day. It was bliss. I didn’t realize how badly I needed some time away to myself until I was away, and while I missed my kids, it was so nice only having to worry about myself. A luxury I took for granted when I actually only had to worry about myself.
I have a love for all things leopard, and when I purchased this particular coat I immediately knew that it was going to be in rotation on the regular. I envisioned almost instantly that not only would it look fabulous dressed up, but I knew I would be styling it atop a casual line up of ensembles as well. Hoodie, jeans and sneakers is as basic as it gets, but throwing a leopard layer on as you head out the door elevates the look instantly. I also love wearing a jogging suit,sneakers and a ball cap with this beauty of a coat topping it off, making this messy mommy feel somewhat put together.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
AGOLDE Denim, Madewell Tee, Vince Cardigan, Moncler Jacket, Chanel Handbag, Stuart Weitzman Boots
Sometimes the winds of change sneak up on you and without anticipating or preparing, it happens. Sometimes, change is something that is constantly gnawing, heavy on the heart to make a leap, to take a chance, to let things go. Something about the new year and new decade sparked a light in me, after years of being as still as I could be, to answer to those winds of change. Does the change look exactly like I envisioned it would, no, it doesn’t, but I’ve been working hard on my ability to adapt and readjust in an effort to succeed.
I believe that one of the biggest factors to looking chic in a city that can be warm and breezy one minute and arctic the next is to suit up in simple layers. I remember when I started blogging back in 2012, layering, often in J.Crew ensembles, was all the rage. It looked fussy and often involved a collared shirt beneath some sort of sweater. That look no longer speaks to me, but the idea of layering a fab wool cardigan over top my tee, and underneath my pretty parka…yes please. I’ve been shopping my own closet hard lately, and I’m so pleased with the abundance of classic pieces that mix and match and truly stand the test of time. Of course I have my special pieces, but what I reach for daily, it’s only the classics.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Aritzia Coat, DVF Blouse, AGOLDE Denim, Loeffler Randall Boots, Chanel Handbag, Agnelle Gloves
With the polar votex safely behind us, we’ve already made a trip to the zoo and will be spending as much time as possible outdoors, breathing in that amazing fresh air that isn’t cold enough to damage our lungs. Dramatic, I know, but it’s a miracle we made it though last week without leaving the house due to the extreme cold.
This type of outfit has been my go-to formula as of late, especially for those inbetween activities such as meeting up with friends while having to get some errands done. I used to spend so much time coming up with ensembles for the blog that were more aspirational than realistic, and that just doesn’t make sense for the season I’m in right now. If it’s not something I’ve worn in the past month, or will be wearing in the month to come, it no longer fits the bill to make it on to the blog. Perhaps that’s why there was such a long lull in the blog over the past couple of years, ain’t nobody want to see posts of mismatched sweatpants and dirty tees. Sometimes it takes a while to recover from the bumps and bruises of life, and I tried to protect all of you from that fashion disaster. You’re welcome.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Moncler Parka, Spanx Faux Leather Leggings, Chanel Handbag, Jimmy Choo Combat Boots
We are currently experiencing a deep freeze here in YYC, I’m talking -40 degrees celcius, and we’ve hunkered down hard. With two small children that have been house bound for the better part of a week, let me just say, the days have been LONG. I saw a meme that stated it’s the time of year where you either go to an indoor play place and leave with some variety of gastro or respiratory disease, or stay home and try not to kill each other. We’ve opted for the later, so my refereeing skills have skyrocketed to expert level.
These images were taken a couple of weeks ago when the weather was balmy in comparison. Alberta has always been a province where investing in a fabulous parka will never be a poor choice, and this week just confirms it. I’ve had this particular coat for over seven years (proof in this post from seven years ago), and it’s as relevant and in fashion as it was when I first purchased it. Proof that you don’t need dozens of options if you invest in something high in quality and classic in style.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
