I can distinctly remember writing my blog post on New Year’s Eve exactly one year ago. It was the eve of a new decade, and there was so much to process from the previous ten years. Looking back on 2010 felt like watching a reel from someone else’s life. This year doesn’t seem that much different. Although it’s only been a year since we welcomed a the start of a new decade, with so many hopeful for a fresh slate and a new beginning, I think it’s safe to say this year played out in a way NO ONE could have predicted. Looking back at our lives a year ago, it’s unbelievable how much has changed. For me, so much so that even a year ago feels like a different lifetime.
We decided at the beginning of 2019 we were ready to move, and called on Sam Corea, the absolute best human and realtor, who sold our home within a couple of days of listing it. We had planned all along on moving in with my parents at the lake while we searched for our new home in Calgary, but we had no idea what was coming. The possession date on our home landed just days after the entire country shut down due to Corona Virus, and our moving day fell on the weekend that Calgary shut everything down. During that crazy time, we had friends that came out and helped, and to them we are forever indebted. The market in Calgary became unpredictable, and long story short, we’re still living at the lake, searching for a house that we can call our own. Sam has been one of the few people I’ve seen in real life this past year, and we couldn’t and wouldn’t have wanted to wade through this with anyone else.
Like so many others out there I’ve struggled this year, feeling extreme loneliness and isolation as we are doing our part to keep family safe and well during this time. I am so grateful for my girlfriends with who I have regular Facetime dates with, which has saved my sanity. It was an absolute blessing being up at the lake with my parents, and I feel lucky my kids have gotten to spend so much time with their grandparents. It’s nice to indulge in Happy Hour with someone other than just yourself. 2021 does bring some hope of normalcy, I can’t wait to see my friends in person, to have play dates with our kids, to go out to eat without worry, and all the other little moments I took for granted. I get emotional any time I see someone get the vaccine, and to all of the researchers and scientists and healthcare workers out there, I am forever grateful for your acumen, bravery, and commitment to humanity. Here’s to moving forward and healing from a year that felt traumatic and unrelenting. Happy New Year my friends!
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Aritzia Coat, Vince Sweater, Citizen Denim, Rebecca Minkoff Belt, Chanel Flats
Is anyone else out there looking forward, not only to the holidays, but to biding adieu to 2020? While there will be nothing remarkably different with the start of 2021, the pandemic is still very much happening, there will be renewed hope that 2021 will bring a vaccine, and with it, the ability to see our friends and family. I don’t know how everyone has been going about their lives, but while living with my parents, (please 2021, help us find the perfect house!), we’ve been extremely isolated. It’s been an incredibly tough and lonely few months, and there’s nothing I want more than to see my people. We’ve officially hit a new level of boredom, and thinking up activities for the kids everyday is an enormous challenge. How is everyone else holding up out there?
These photos were taken just before the weather turned and we got hit with the snow. I often wonder what it would be like to live in a climate where you could wear flats all through the winter, where you wouldn’t have to remember you toque, mittens, and scarf just to insure you didn’t freeze. Although at the same time, the stylist in me automatically goes to the missed styling opportunities of additional accessories. I think it’s worth noting that I have literally not donned a pair of denim since these photos were shot over a month ago. I am surviving these cold months in jogging pants and leggings. At this point I’d say I’m going more lightly on the thriving and heavy on the surviving. I’m also able to indulge in considerablely more Christmas baking in Lycra, so that’s a solid win.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Sunday’s Best Dress, Jimmy Choo Boots, Chanel Handbag
I cannot believe what a dream this Autumn has been here in Alberta. I can’t remember the last time the warm days of summer snuck into the shorter days of October, and to say I’m loving it would be a complete understatement. I live for Fall, it’s by far my most loved season, and before kids it was my favourite time of year to travel. The past three years we lived in a new development in Calgary, where the community was short on fall foliage and heavy on small, newly planted trees. As we search for a new home, living in an older neighborhood with an abundance of mature trees is a high priority.
I love when trends are a mashup of items already residing in your closet, versus the ones involving items that need to be purchased. Hence, the trend of pairing combat boots with dresses immediately resonated with me and of course I had to share with all of you. Combat boots are such a classic item, and an investment that will last years to come. I purchased these boots back in 2014 and they are as current today as there were six years ago. Combat boots are having a resurgence, with Dr. Martens making a comeback. It just goes to show how cyclical fashion is, and investing in classic items rather than trends is always the way to go. This pairing is a trend I will absolutely be donning into next year.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Now that Autumn is among us I thought it would be a fabulous time to do another round of Classics On Repeat, highlighting items in my closet that are classic in style, that I’ve had for years, and worn with a variety of ensembles. I’m sure it’s due to the climate in which I live, but while investigating my closet this summer for items to feature on Classics on Repeat, I was at a loss for summer items that have had the same impact and investment return as my Fall/Winter attire. Other than my trusty flip flops, I found that short styles have varied greatly, especially over the last five years. Even my swimsuit covers haven’t stood the test of the time in regards to classic styles. I’m happy Fall fashion season is back and my regulars are back in rotation.
Let me start by saying these I love these loafers, absolutely love them. I love that they’re menswear inspired, that they have a slightly pointy toe, and that they’re classic enough to not be linked to a particular trend or year. I believe I purchased them back in 2014, although they read as though I could have purchased them this past month. They look fabulous with any ensemble, from denim to leather, dress pants to skirts and an array of dresses. This is the perfect example of a classic style that will stand the test of time. I suggest skipping over a trendy version, the styles with platforms or done in a flashy colour. Above all, make sure whatever item it is you’re adding to your closet, that it’s comfortable. Otherwise it doesn’t matter how classic or fabulous, you’ll always reach for another item that isn’t going to destroy your feet.
When lockdown hit back in March, the weather here was subarctic, and being housebound with two toddlers made for some challenging moments. Every morning felt like a rerun of Groundhog Day, and my body didn’t experience anything outside of sweats and joggers for weeks on end. While I’m hoping for the best in regards to a second wave, I also know that we will be spending more time indoors than out this fall and winter. In preparation I’ve been scouring the inter-web to find the coziest and chicest of loungewear to make this next part of the year as enjoyable as possible. I love the look and comfort factor of all of these ensembles, some I’ve already purchased and can attest to their perfection. Some are sold as sets, while others have various styles and colours for you to create your own loungewear look. I feel more confident already, just knowing that although I may be stuck inside, but I’ll be looking tres chic while doing it.
- Aritzia Cozy AF Boyfriend Cropped Hoodie and Mega Sweatpant
- PJ Salvage Ciao Bella Lounge Set
- Priv Collections Wildest Dreams Lounge Set
- Free People Culver City Set
- BP. Joggers and Cozy Top
- PJ Salvage Stripe Trim Pajamas
- Brunette the Label Basics Joggers and Crew Neck Sweatshirt
- Topshop Acid Wash Joggers and Sweatshirt
