Are these $30 Mascaras Worth it? Featuring Guerlain & Estée Lauder

both-mascaras

 You guys already know I've been trying to step my makeup game up. While I do love my drugstore brands, I thought it would be cool to see whether these luxe brands were actually worth the price.

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Guerlain Maxi Lash Intense Volumizing Mascara $36 First, the packaging is beautiful. Compact with sleek gold detailing, this baby was made to be Instagrammed. Gigi Gorgeous recently featured it on her Snapchat and hailed it as one of her favourite mascaras and it has a great rating on MakeupAlley. The only drawback mentioned in the reviews was that the mascara is expensive.

mascara-guerlain

The wand is easy to hold and super light. The formula is a true black and quite silky on the lashes. The firm applicator is a dream come true. The first time I used this mascara, I walked through Holt Renfrew's beauty bar at Square One. I received so many compliments on my eyelashes! The volume to length ratio was perfect and not too spidery.

mascara-g

Estée Lauder Double Wear Zero-Smudge Lengthening Mascara $30 I have been reading and watching reviews all over the web about Estee Lauder's Double Wear line. So I'm excited to finally giving one product in this bunch a try. First of all the packaging is divine with all of the gold Estée Lauder detailing. It feels heavier than it would look (not to say it's heavy it's just not as light as most mascaras).  I purchased it in brown by accident but I ended up loving the colour. I think it's great for makeup looks that black mascara would be too harsh with.

mascara-double-wear

The firm wand was easy to manoeuvre and the dark brown formula wasn't too creamy. It focused on length, not volume. I had sky-high lashes the first time I tried the mascara! The formula didn't budge, but also didn't leave my lashes sore. It was perfect for the no-makeup-makeup look I rocked at the gym the first time I wore it. The best part: no flaking! There was no residue at the end of the day, yet it easily came off with a few swipes of my makeup remover. I wouldn't purchase this for glam nights out, but for daily wear to work or running errands or to the gym.

In short, if you've got the budget to spare, try one of these mascaras! They not only worked, they worked incredibly well. I received so many compliments when wearing them and loved the volume and length my eyelashes were able to achieve.

What's one luxe product you've wanted to try?

4 Ways you Can Make Your Blog Inclusive

I've been sitting on this post for a while. In the wake of the Marc Jacobs criticisms, I think this is the perfect time to publish it.

When I started to blog, I noticed that content from bloggers and influencers seemed very segregated. I didn’t write this post to dive into the politics of why the blogging world isn’t inclusive (read up on the difference between inclusivity and diversity). Instead, I want to give actionable advice to bloggers so they could develop content that is more inclusive!

Read Different Blogs For some, it all starts with making a point of reading blogs written by people who sit at different intersections as them (here is a 2-minute read on intersectionality). Subscribe to new people on Bloglovin’! Follow different users on Instagram. Really read through and take the time to comment on their posts. Look out for my post featuring my favourite black bloggers soon!

Guest Posts Did you notice that all of the guest bloggers you received submissions from were all white? Instead of requesting guest posts from your audience, try reaching out to bloggers-of-colour you may not have worked with before.

Stay in your Lane How-to beauty and fashion posts that appropriate other cultures are a big no-no. Influencers and Bloggers who get defensive instead of listening to rightfully offended groups about appropriated fashion and beauty practices lose the chance to engage with an awesome audience. Not sure what counts as appropriation? Read this.

Add a ‘lil Colour to your Content When I noticed my Pinterest featured mostly white women, I changed it up. I filled my entire ‘Style Goals’ board with only women of colour and started a natural hair board. It took extra time to find many women of colour in street style roundups and features. However, it was worth it since those were my most popular boards on my Pinterest!

Let’s keep the comments section constructive! If you have questions or suggestions please do share.

Winter is Coming: Haircare

I'm excited about winter. I know it's not even fall yet, yet but I can just imagine crisp snow on the sidewalks and the taste of warm apple cider. I can also imagine how brittle my hair normally would be during winter. My curls don't want anything to do with the brutal Canadian weather.

Here are two haircare lines that saved my hair last winter. One is high end, and the other can be considered a drugstore brand. Both are amazing, and I wanted to give them a joint review. That way you could choose  to splurge or save while getting your hair ready for the frosty months to come.

I've been using the Garnier Whole Blends line non-stop since I received it at a press event. I was skeptical at first. I've got textured hair which usually doesn't agree with drugstore finds. However, when my hair felt super silky (even after shampooing) I knew Garnier crafted a winner. First of all, it smells amazing. The warm coconut fragrance isn't overpowering. It's just a delicious hint that bounces through my curls and I love it. Before I even add in moisturizer it feels extremely hydrated and stronger after using the  winning combination.

Yum! The Kerastase Resistance line smells divine! The hair mask and conditioner leave my hair feeling light and fluffy. It's made for repairing thick damaged hair, which is perfect for the winter months. The shampoo is very cleansing so I use it sparingly when I want a super clean finish (after having my hair in a protective style or a particularly dirty/sweaty week). If I apply heat to my hair I am sure to use the serum throughout my curls. The shiny and silky finish it leaves my hair with is everything!

How do you take care of your hair during winter?

Self-Care Sundays

flat lay nails

Sundays are for Lovers Loving Yourself! Whether I go to church in the morning or sleep in, I like to spend at least some part of my Sunday on self-care before the work-week takes its hold of my time. Keep reading for how I make every Sunday special

Get Organized It might seem odd that reviewing my calendar and setting weekly goals is a part of my self-care routine. However, I feel less scattered and stressed during the week if I get my life together on Sunday. I try to get ready for the week ahead in any way I can, whether it's organizing my underwear drawer or checking off things I've been procrastinating on my task list.

Paint Your Nails

Even the smallest thing like getting my nails done makes me feel special

— ELAISHA JADE (@ElaishaJade) September 3, 2016

Not sure if anyone else feels the same way but getting my nails buffed, shaped and painted makes me feel like a new person. I usually end up doing my nails at home. It's a nice treat I love to get done at the salon but I like watching bad rom-com's and giving myself a manicure.

Do Something You Love Whether it's watching too many movie trailers in one sitting or going for a long bike ride I like to do something I love every Sunday. Today I'm watching the incredibly underrated 'Jupiter Ascending' again. Don't @ me.

Eat Something Healthy (and Yummy) After a usually riotous Saturday, I like to scale back on Sunday and eat foods that give me energy and make me feel good. Foods that usually put a kick in my step are a smoothie bowl, vegetable juice, a fruit filled bowl of cereal, or any other vegan meal or snack I can get my hands on.

Quick pit stop at @liveorganicfood between meetings

A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Sep 8, 2016 at 9:28am PDT

Bath Time I've got my bath-time routine down to a science. I remember choosing my apartment because of the deep tub that comes with it. There is nothing like soaking in some bath salts, lighting a scented candle and catching up on my YouTube faves (like It's Judy's Life). Should I write a post on bath-time essentials?

What do you do for self-care? Tell me in the comments!

5 Apps Every Blogger Needs on their Phone

Happy Thursday! I thought my site was due for a facelift, both in content and look. What do you think of the new theme? To celebrate, I wrote a few posts for all of you bloggers out there who want to take your blog to the next level with a few tricks.

Buffer App Content Scheduling I signed up for Buffer as soon as soon as I saw the low monthly price and that I could schedule on Pinterest and Instagram! I used the app religiously to monitor my scheduled content and ensured that everything went over well while I was on the go.

Bloglovin’ Blogger Feed I consider Bloglovin' similar to Feedly (another fave of mine). The RSS feed of blogs you follow updates  found the experience of reading posts from my favourite blogs more enjoyable on the Bloglovin' app than on my computer.

A ColorStory or Afterlight Photo Editing After I downloaded these apps I was able to get the perfect edit on Instagram. They allowed my picky aesthetic to be imagined with a few adjustments to whatever photo I wanted to quickly post or schedule.

Apple Music Music Library The perfect playlist wasn’t unreachable after I downloaded the premium version of Apple Music. While I wasn’t the biggest fan of their set playlists, I was able to make my own much easier than on other apps since their catalogue was on another level.

Asana Task List Organizer I used Asana to get stuff done, and it worked. I was able to collaborate with my assistant and complete assignments for my clients way easier than I would have ever thought.The alerts on my mobile kicked my butt into gear when I was slacking off. I also used it when revamping my blog to get better content out to you guys!

What are your favourite iPhone apps? Comment below to let me know so I can try them out!

Brushing up on My Skills

My grandfather always told my mum that education was the only thing that couldn't be taken from her. That stuck with me and inspired me to continue to learn and find things that would help me remain a student. Keep reading for how I’m brushing up on my skills as a jack of all trades.

Brush 1: Finishing Contour Brush | Brush 2: Flat Top Foundation Brush | Brush 3: Blender Brush

Attend a Digital Conference Not sure which conference I will attend or when, but before the year is over I will be heading to one. Maybe in Portugal? Stay tuned!

Actually use my Lynda.com Subscription While I found Lynda a bit overwhelming (so many options to choose from) I’m going to build a schedule for myself. Maybe I'll write educational blog posts based on what I learned! To keep me engaged with the post I will take notes too.

Read Two Books a Month On my trip (city guides coming soon!) I started reading Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers. I borrowed it from my work library and I highly recommend it. I used to read so much on public transportation. However, I switched over to podcasts when I started getting motion sickness while reading on the road. Next on my list is “The Year of Yes” by Shonda Rhimes, recommended to me by my good friend Sheetal.

Watch More Documentaries I love documentaries but I haven’t watched any in a while. The ones I tend to gravitate to have very stoic and sobering messages, so they can be heavy for casual watching. However, I’ve found that the best conversation starters have come from watching them. Any recommendations?

Ok, obviously Tweezerman’s brush line inspired this post! How gorgeous are these babies? I am more of a 'fingers for application' girl, but recently I started using brushes. Do you want to see a makeup look with them?

*Products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

Capturing Moments to Remember

I kept a journal when I was younger. In it I penned the mortifying truths of growing pains as my raw, unfiltered thoughts were released onto the pages. Some of these autobiographical chapters in my life were read by people close to me and misinterpreted as mean or callous. Really I just wrote freely from my mind and sometimes my inner dialogue was mean, but after careful thought, I would always try to act with empathy in mind.

So I've gone back and reread some of my scandalous secrets...like what my favourite personality quirk of my longstanding crush is (I still think he and I should totally get married) and what I really thought of my school 'friends'. I also discovered something else as I read on. The progression of my sassy edges whittling away into an agreeable more palatable person. It wasn't obvious at first until I picked up on a few cues that revealed a defeatist attitude.

 Shoes: H&M Jumpsuit: An oldie, but a goodie.

Without capturing those memories and leaving a time capsule for me to find I would have been doomed to repeat my past. Over the past year, I felt my edges fray, just like they did in middle school. While I haven't picked up writing in a journal again just yet, I did buy this adorable Instax Mini and a lot of film. I want to capture this summer in film and reflect at the end of it. I want the fun memories I make to be imprinted in my mind. I want to I remember that life is what you make it. It'll always have a little good, a lot of bad and maybe if you're lucky a little sass thrown in there too.

Do you guys do anything to remind you of your self-worth?

Show me your friends...

When I got the invite to Everafter Music Festival, I didn’t Tweet or post on Facebook first. No, I searched for Taylor’s contact in my phone and excitedly invited her to come with me. With the crazy headlining lineup of Flosstradamus, Skrillex, Zedd and other local artists I had to tell her to dust off her flower crown and short shorts.

[keep reading for how you can enter to WIN 2 tickets to Everafter Music Festival]

A while back, my friend, (who established himself quickly in his early 20s) expressed how unfortunate it was that his friends couldn’t afford to share the same memories as him. He wanted to travel the world and pop bottles of champagne wherever he went, but most of his friends were starving artists. At first, I thought he was being frivolous, but then I really thought about it.

Success and adventure aren’t fun without anyone to share it with. Sure some things are ok to do alone, but rooftops in Paris or baths in Istanbul are even better with someone you care about beside you.

Taylor and I met over 10 years ago through mutual acquaintances. We always ran in similar friend-groups but didn’t really get to know each other until she moved here from Ottawa. When people asked us how we met and got to know each other, she’d mention that she wasn’t down to be my friend at first. I can be excitable, embarrassing and just a bag full of energy. It didn’t vibe with Taylor’s too-cool-for-school (as I liked to call it) attitude. She really thought we couldn’t be friends since I was just too…well, too much for her to handle.

But after 4 years she learned to put up with me (while smiling I might add!) and I wormed my way into her little black heart. She became extremely important to me. She joined as one of 3 very close friends (hey Mila and Megan) that I loved dearly and who supported me through tough times and kept me in check. While I wrote this piece I got a bit emotional. Cliche, but I didn't know where I would be without my friends…my adopted family. Are your friends that important to you?

Here’s how to enter to win 2 tickets to Everafter Music Festival in Kitchener, so you can bring your BFF: Follow the link to this Instagram post, tag your bff and comment why they deserve to come with you.

The winner will be announced May 30. Winner must have and confirm their own transportation and accommodation to the festival to receive prize.

Curl power: The Strength of Loving your Curls

*Sponsored post 

I hated being different. Growing up I was, to say it nicely, weird. Bookish, outspoken and often misunderstood I didn’t fit into one social group. I wasn’t cool, but I also wasn’t uncool so I stood somewhere in the middle. One way of fitting in was to have straight hair.

Most of the girls I hung out with rocked waist-length weaves or flipped their fresh perms over their shoulders. My mum carefully braided my hair since I was a baby. I never chemically straightened my hair and thought of natural hair as my norm. However, it would be many years later until I understood the importance of embracing my curls.

As mentioned in a ‘Stuff Mom Never Told You’ podcast about Curly Hair, curls got a lot of hate in movies and TV. When a female lead would ‘transform’ from the awkward duckling, she was into a graceful swan gone was her ‘unruly’ mass of curls. Straight and silky her hair seemed to play a part in her newfound popular life. Gorging on ice-cream and watching these transformations unfold as a kid, my mum’s teachings escaped me.

Shopping channels and late night infomercials offered solutions to my kinky ‘problem’. Blow dryers with magical abilities and straighteners that did the impossible had me begging my mum to straighten my hair. Eventually, she caved and did it. Without the use of chemicals, my hair fell into more of a triangular shape than bone straight. But I rocked the style on my birthday and special holidays like I was hot stuff. Feeling too old for the cornrows I was accustomed to, I started wearing my hair in the curls it would wave into after I pulled out my flat twists. My afro drew attention from the guys I had crushes on and the girls I wanted to be friends with. Since then the power of my curls surprised me everyday. While the natural-movement was in full swing, my natural hair drew attention wherever I went. From sneaking looks in the middle of a conversation or blatant staring on the subway, people just couldn’t resist ‘em (or maybe I had something on my face?!).

Since embracing the power of my curls, I learned to accept a lot of other things about myself I would have given anything to change. Yes, it took other people appreciating my curls for me to realize their strength. But it showed me that I shouldn’t look to others to define what beautiful is to me, but to work with what I’ve already got!

*Giveaway is now closed*

I’ve partnered up with Dippity-Doo to give all of my curly-haired readers the chance to join the #DDCurlSquad with me and WIN the full Girls with Curls line. Start to embrace the power of your curls...you know you want to.

Enter via Rafflecopter below and follow the instructions carefully. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Reverse Bucket List

All the applause goes out to my girl   Dominique. Her reverse bucket list post really got me thinking. Imagine, instead of compiling a list of things I need to do I could compile a list of what I achieved?

I got a little intimate in my last post of 2015 and touched on some of the anxious feelings I let take over me a few times last year. Really it was an amazing year of highs and lows but I didn't step back and appreciate all that I experienced. So, here goes!

Starting my YouTube Channel  Ok not really starting my channel but really posting content on there that I liked. I was excited to share what I did in the city and the friends I keep with a small audience of friends I built over the years.

Running not one, but two, 10km races

I touched on why it was a big deal for me to run one race in my previous posts on social media and on here. When Adidas invited me to run another I was thrilled. I was so happy I challenged myself again (and this time through the elements of rain and cold November air) to cross the finish line.

Visiting the West Coast Last year I had the privilege of attending VidCon in Anaheim, California. Before the conference I was able to visit a family friend and spend some needed quality time with my mum. From hiking in the desert to lounging on Oxnard beach that trip reminded me that I needed to continue to explore the world around me and get out of my own head.

Finishing my first year of University (woo) I delayed going back to school for YEARS. I know in my industry that school is a convention and that if you know the right people and develop the right skills you really don't need to attend. However there was so much I needed to learn. And while school is an uphill battle (I'll share a little later) I'm still in it and trying my best to be a sponge. I met some amazing educators with a passion for media and teaching like no other. It was infectious.

Embracing myself While this is a lifelong process I'm slowly getting into the swing of embracing me for me (and I couldn't be more excited).

Landing a client I really admire  I landed this client after another one phased out a project I had been working on for almost a year. It was tough but then this door swung right open for me as the other one shut in my face. I'm extremely grateful. Remember to never underestimate your network or the work you put out there. Someone is always watching.

I applied fake eyelashes for the first time by myself...and didn't die!

I'm slowly learning about the incredible illusion of makeup. Skincare was always ingrained in me as a kid but I only groomed my eyebrows and rocked lipgloss (even in high school) so makeup was foreign ground. While stepping up my game was a process (and I'm still learning) falsies were obviously the most daunting part. But I did it, over and over again! I love getting tips from Lelo who is one of my favourite makeup artists

Sharing my thoughts and dreams with you guys I am a pretty private person. As much as I share on social media and in conversations, I really guard myself and with good reason. Not everyone will share your dreams and perspective. In fact there are a lot of bad apples out there that may tear you down. I found that there's a fine balance between vulnerability and hiding away. A middle ground where I can be myself with my readers to hopefully help you guys out through showing my vulnerable side.

What's on your reverse bucket list?

Why I'm Single

The other day a guy I've known for most of my life looked at me quizzically and asked, "Why are you single?" The question came after he complimented my looks and asked whether I was in a relationship. I quickly replied that I was picky and the conversation shifted to something else. Then it sat with me. Beyond the fact that society imposes a monogamous relationship as the pinnacle of happiness (ha!) I don't feel many qualms about being single.

Leggings: Reitmans | Boots: Ecco | Purse: Aldo | Jacket: Ebay 

A friend noted that on social media my jokes about not being in a relationship seemed sad. So of course I halted all, 'I'm the funny-single-girl' tweets (although I still hit up the snap) and this Valentines day I asked myself, "Elaisha, why are you really single?"

A piece by Natalie Joos (aka Tales of Endearment), An Ill-Fated Attempt at Finding Love in the Hamptons(published and read by me in 2013) stuck with me for years. Joos—a stylish and beautiful casting agent—spilled the details on her experience with a bratty guy who couldn't see past his own ego to overcome a misunderstanding, before their first date. What made it so vividly memorable was that I could relate. From rejecting a guy or even showing interest...he (like any person) could just go off of the rails about something that could never warrant a mean or heated response. Yet it's happened over and over to me and several of my close friends. Nobody's got time for that. While I maintain a tough-guy front (see comfy biker boots and band t-shirt above) I'm actually quite sensitive. Facing constant ridicule from a partner without reason would hurt and make me close off.

Last month I watched a touching video produced by SoulPancake, which featured a roundtable of men who shared their emotions and experiences and asked each other questions. One guy said something I've repeated to several friends since. He (I'm paraphrasing) said that solely wanting 'the chase' objectifies the person you were going after into a prized possession. It's problematic to think, getting the person that doesn't want you gives you value.

It wasn't something I consciously did but it happened many times over. When I really looked back and reflected I thought, maybe I did want the conquest to give me value. I chose to want guys who didn't feel the same way or really valued me. Because if I could change their minds then I'd prove something; maybe to myself or others. But it never worked.

For now I'll just stick to learning how to open my heart to the right people and making fire playlists that I can listen to with the Sony MDR-100AAP's. I've got a fun trip coming up soon, so look out for a travel review of these babies.

If you're cool with sharing, answer: why are you single?

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

9 Valentines Gifts You should get YOURSELF!

Since I was a kid I've spent Valentines Day counting down the hours until the real holiday, February 15th: 50% off of chocolate day. While dodging cupid's arrow I compiled a Valentines Day wish-list from me...to me. I'm a hopeless romantic...but I've never dated anyone who 'believed' in Valentines day. No flowers. No cards. No gifts. Now, I don't believe in the commercialism of the holiday or only making special effort on February 14th. But a little romance never hurt anyone right?

So shoutout to everyone else eating pop tarts in bed for 'brunch' on February 14th. Here are some gifts you can get YOURSELF.

Sera Wallet | Tiger of Sweden [here] 
A gorgeous wallet to hold all of the money you'll be saving by not buying anyone but yourself a gift #blessed.

Showcourt RQT Sneaker | Lacoste [here] 
For kicking anyone who's interested in you to the curb.

Mariesa Monrose Print Backpack | Ted Baker [here] 
You know, for all of the emotional baggage you're carrying.

Plattan Wireless  | Urbanears [here] 
Bluetooth and cordless since, (obvi) you don't want to be tied down. *plays Africa by Toto*

Super People Sunnies | Club Monaco [here] 
For all of the shade you'll be throwing to couples holding hands and brunching together.

Lingerie | La Vie En Rose [here] 
Sure only you and the nosy women at the gym will see it...but if there's a medical emergency at least the EMT's won't judge you.

Pre-cleanse | Dermalogica [here]  
Desi Perkins made me obsessed with this via her Snapchat. I watched the wonders of the pre-cleanse solution; one swipe and her makeup was gone...glitter eyeshadow included. Perfect for the mascara stains on my face after the New Years scene on, 'When Harry met Sally'.

Graceful Acrylic in Nude | Kiss Nails [here] 
These nails are gorgeous for up to a week of wiping your tears away. The oval shape is super natural and they can be applied with sticky tabs or for longer wear, nail glue. To take them off all you need is an acetone based solution and a little bit of soaking time.

Love Bridge Bracelet | Thomas Sabo [here] 
Since no one is around to tell you what to do, you can engrave whatever you want on your love bridge. I've probably got gamophobia since thinking about getting a tattoo makes me break into a sweat. Now you've got the chance to 'tattoo' your bracelet with whatever important message you'd want on your body. Probably, 'Pancakes'. (All seriousness, my love bridge says "Just Go", my catchphrase and life motto.)

If you will be single for Valentines Day too comment below in solidarity. 

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

How You Gonna be Matte on Vacation?

Ok Kanye puns aside, I've searched for the perfect matte lip shade that will suit my top-lip heavy mouth for months. My cupid's bow is deep guys. While everyone else is going gaga over the Kylie Jenner lippies I'm not even gonna try getting one of them. It's near impossible.

Instead I collected and swatched some soft pink 'matte' shades (which suit me best) to decide which one is coming with me on my next vacation. There is nothing like a soft pink lip to subtly glam up a 'natural' faced look (concealer and a bit of mascara).

I like my lips. In 2016 that's an odd thing to say when everyone is trying to plump, fluff and expand the amount of space theirs takes up. All power to those who want to change their lip size and to those who are keeping their original look. I think it's important to know what works for you and to not be afraid of trying new things.

Matte lips were a territory wasn't sure I was ready to fully embark on, so  Makeup Forever's Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick was a great 'transition choice'. It's subtly moisturizing and such a pretty colour but isn't a 'true' matte. The only true matte of the bunch was the LA Girl Matte Flat Gloss finish. It's not as moist as Maybelline's Creamy Matte lipstick but it doesn't transfer at all. If you need long-lasting matte lips and don't mind a bit of dryness go for it. I would need it in a colour with less auburn in it though. The By Kiss Matte Lip Lacquer was a gorgeous almost Barbie-pink that I'd need to do with muted eyes and a matching blush. The Kiss New York Moisture lippy was a drugstore dupe for Makeup Forever's Rouge Artist but not as pigmented. It would do on a more casual day.

The pale JMatte lipstick in Bare nude was a very light choice I borrowed from my mum. I'd only wear it if I were blending with a deeper shade since it's a bit chalky for me.

So...what's your favourite nude matte shade of the season?

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

I'mma let you finish ft. Guerlain's Météorite Skin Perfecting Matte Powder

I have a friend who could write the book on unfinished projects. She's all 'talk' and no 'do'. Putting in work requires more than an idea, but follow through. I however, have a rushing problem.

The power of finishing things is extremely underrated. The excitement of starting a project eventually fades into a reality of deciding to put in the hard work needed to persevere and complete it. Concentration, discipline and determination all aid in finishing the proposal, assignment or task. While speed is a skill I'm proud of gaining, slowing down is the one I need to work on. I remember one of my clients would always try to get me to slow down. Eventually I did and the benefits were incredible. I wasn't just going through the motions but really thinking about the task and doing the best job possible.

That in itself was an accomplishment for me. While I've got a ways to go, at least I know that really finishing is, as my biggest cheerleader DJ Kaled would say, a major key to success. The limited edition, Météorite Skin Perfecting Matte Powder by Guerlain is a steep investment with an incredible pay-off. The $200CAD finishing powder was crafted to leave the face skin matte yet luminous after applying foundation. I thought it would be too light for me but I was wrong. I dusted the powder in trouble areas that tend to get a little, shall we say, dewy as the day progresses (shoutout to my t-zone). It definitely added extra oomph to my 'natural' look. While the price may warrant use for very special occasions, I personally love the luxe packaging and texture of the finishing powder. It's soft fragrance is also a nice touch too.

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

2016: The Year of Learning

I'm going to allow myself to grow in 2016. 2015 was a year of constantly playing catch up for me. I was texting my girl Janu and she asked me what the New Year has in store for me.

And I knew right away to answer: 2016 is going to be a learning 'playground' for me. An experiential year of challenging myself, falling down and getting back up. Don't get me wrong, I did a lot of that in 2015. But most of the time I was in too much of a stressed state to really reflect and apply those lessons.

I remember when a client decided to part ways with me right when everything else around me was crumbling (where I lived, my mum's health, school etc.) It was a losing battle. I was sinking into the stress and anxiety of my feelings. At times I felt like I couldn't breathe or move; choked and paralyzed by thinking there was no way out.

I knew I had to make a change so I did. I started meditating and praying more,  trained even harder for my 10km race and spent more time with my friends and family. It made a world of a difference but I was still guarded against getting rejected again. Don't get me wrong,  2015 was an amazing year. I did a lot to be proud of, however I don't want to waste the chance to repurpose the hardest moments as lessons to learn.

So here's to 2016. I won't ask it to be good to me...instead I'll make it amazing. Photos by: Nik Popalavsky

Back to Black

Many people usually take note of my 'colourful' personality. Those bright shades in my attitude and demeanour are usually reflected in my outfits and accessories too.  

However, lately, I've been feeling a little darker. Maybe it's the weather or exam season but I've been a bit more snarky and less bubbly. My fellow YouTuber/Classmate/Fave Person Kevy was able to capture a bit of that darkness for me (PS check out his blog. It's bravely intimate and I'm so proud of it!) with a quick impromptu shoot before we grabbed Shawarma and talked about life.

Jacket: Stella Nova | Boots GAP | Nylons Calvin Klein | Dress Dreamers [similar] | Hardware Ebay Canada

Later on that night, I went out to Media Profile's Holiday party with Max where we giggled on The Burroughs' rooftop and gazed over the nighttime skyline. The CN tower was lit in Christmas colours, reminding me that my birthday is just around the corner. Maybe dark-'Laish isn't just a phase...maybe I'm just finally grown up.

Accesories Gift Guide for Frequent Flyers

As a frequent traveller my holiday wish list is quite different from my friends’. Organizers, mini versions of beauty products, carry-on bags..my list could on forever. I tried to curate a unique bunch of things I either use frequently or really want to try.

1. Sanuk Bianca Shoes Apparently Sanuk shoes are super comfy. One of my fave bloggers, Marla from Trendstruck was rocking a pair in one of her recent snapchats (go follow her, she’s hilarious) and I loved them. If I’m wearing a pair of heels take a look in my purse; I’m guaranteed to have a pair of flats in there. I always wear flats to and in the airport. These flats would have been great for me this year when I took a day trip to NYC for a meeting! I could have thrown on a pair of heels after hopping off of the subway in Soho.

2. Packing Cubes from eBay Packing cubes are legendary among professional travellers for organization and space optimization. I’ve wanted a pack of them for a while so I sprung and got them off of eBay. I’ll let you know how they go!

3. Cabeau Neck Pillow I gave up on Neck pillows a while back until I got my Cabeau this summer. It’s like a plush and comfortable brace for your neck. I reviewed this pillow in my LA haul which you can watch on my YouTube channel.

4. Agape + Hesed Palm Leaf Print Case Victoria at Haute Canada is a talented designer with a generous heart. This clutch gets10 kids breakfast!  I'm over marble, so this banana/palm leaf patterned clutch or tablet case is a great alternative. For it to fit a 13" sized laptop, you can contact Victoria to customize it.

5. Sony Extra Bass XB950  The reason why I usually opt for earbuds when on a flight is: headphones usually start to hurt my ears after wearing them for while. I won these headphones last month (thanks Sony!) and I've been using them almost everyday and can honestly say: they never ever hurt. I fell asleep and woke up with them on and I felt no soreness at all. Aside from the extreme comfort the sound quality is also great. With the comfortable and sound blocking cushions sounds feel three dimensional and alive...which can also get a little creepy if you're listening to a track with footsteps or whispering.

6. AWAY Carry On When feeling overwhelmed at the airport a dying phone seems like the least of your concerns…until you need to get your boarding pass out. Or book your hotel while in the boarding line (I totally did that when on the way to Paris…).

I found the Away Carry-On on Product Hunt and I can’t wait for it’s launch next year. When you fly more than 4 times a year you learn how to pack strategically, especially if it’s a short trip. On most of my trips in the past 3 years I only brought a carry on and a knapsack. While the AWAY’s minimalist design and muted colours are nice, what drew me to this carry on was it’s internal phone charger. Compatible with tablets and phones you wouldn’t have to worry about digging through your stuff for a portable charger or laptop or be next to a wall outlet while at the airport.

7. Sony RX100 IV There are photos and videos I didn't shoot because I was either too embarrassed to whip out my massive DSLR or I just didn't want the inconvenience of carrying a large camera around with me. My favourite YouTubers all have vlogging cameras that capture their fun day-to-day adventures and I'd love to do the same. The Sony RX100's sensor is ridiculous and it shoots faster than other cameras it's size. With 4K shooting capabilities and a secret electronic view finder this a must-have on my list. [Watch a full review here]

8. Blanket Scarf from Halogen at Nordstrom I tend to run cold so I always keep a sweater or scarf nearby, no matter what season it is. I am a big fan of blanket scarves while on a plane. I can wear them to the airport as a jacket and on the plane as a scarf, but it won’t take up too much room in my luggage or purse when I arrive somewhere. That’s especially important if I’m headed somewhere warm and won’t even use the scarf while there.

9. Ralph Lauren City Tote There’s nothing like a bag that can fit everything you need in it. On flights you’re allowed to bring a personal bag on and if I’ve decided to not check in a big case I'd usually go for a knapsack. But if I have checked in luggage a roomy and stylish purse is the way to go. I've had my eye on this Ralph Lauren City tote for a while. It's the perfect dupe for the Prada double bag which I've wanted since Fleur de Force did a review a while back.

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

Speak no Evil

In middle school, I thought the way to fit in was to cut others down. I felt that being nice only got me taken advantage of…so instead I was mean. Really mean. I wrote things on bathroom stalls I wish I hadn't. I publicly pointed out the faults in others that I hated in myself, all just to seem funny. But I hated it. I couldn’t stand it.

My spirit was uplifted when I sang in my school choir at seniors homes, volunteered at my library and served at a homeless shelter on Christmas. But I kept all of that to myself because it didn’t match my ‘follower’ mentality and actions.

But why did I keep doing it? I didn’t know my worth outside of how other’s measured it. So I chose to be mean so people would include me…so I could be kept around as the funny girl. So I wouldn’t be thought of as the weird girl who always wore skirts, was too chubby and desperate for friends. But that’s who I was. Rather than embrace it I was mean. This was difficult to write because I’ve worked so hard to separate myself from who I was when really I should accept it to learn from it. To teach me how to treat others. Instead of doing to them as they’ve done to me: do better. I had to learn who I was to know who I’m not. I’m proud to say that I don’t identify as a mean girl anymore. It doesn’t mean that I don’t occasionally have foot in mouth syndrome. Sometimes my mouth works faster than my consciousness and I slip up and say something I didn’t intend to be mean but was still insensitive or inappropriate. But I'm learning.

What came out of your mouth today? What did you hear around you? What did you see? Hearing, speaking and seeing No Evil isn't a passive thing; it's active. To not see, hear or say negative things against others you need to take a stand within yourself to speak up and stand up for those around you.

Just remember...before you can use your voice for others, you have to find it first. 

My favourite shades of the Maybelline Colour Sensational Creamy Mattes lipsticks in: Rich Ruby, Burgundy Blush, Nude Nuance, Vibrant Violet.

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.

Be Prepared

If you're following me on Twitter you might have noticed that I'm running another 10km race this November 1st with Adidas. This unique run takes place at 1am just before the clocks go backwards. So I'm spending my extra 60 minutes this year running with Taylor (our first time running together) in this pretty cool race. The most important thing I learned while training for another race is that you need to be prepared. Below I've listed a few ways that I got ready for this run.

The Right Shoes

What you wear to train really determines the outcome of your session. Whether you feel comfortable in your shoes and clothes is an integral part of your workout. Before the Brooks preview event I went online and used their Shoe Finder. The quiz was updated with detailed questions about my body and what shoes would suit my feet best. Because I pronate and run long distances on the concrete my 'answer' on the quiz was the Adrenaline GTS15. They are solid shoes. They keep my feet in the right position with every step I take and the support reminds me a bit of the orthotic inserts I had as a kid (can you tell I was really cool?)

What you listen to 

While I love me some songs with high bpm I actually listen to slower, melodic music when running. In my last post about running I mentioned that pacing myself was key to me not giving up or feeling like a failure. Since I move at a moderate pace my body doesn't get tired as fast and I can continue for longer distances. Until I hit the final stretch of my run, I blast movie sound tracks with swirling violins and dramatic chord progressions. Or very chill alternative and jazz songs I find on SoundCloud.  I train with my Jabra Sport Pulse bluetooth earbuds. It monitors my distance, heart rate, time, calories burned etc. While the sound quality isn't at Bose level, it pairs well with external apps like Spotify, Soundcloud or just iTunes. It's a really great device I never run without. [Read my full tech review on Tech Analyzer]

What you wear 

Hyba just opened at Eaton's Centre (video to come soon!) and I was super excited to get my hands on these duds. This matching outfit is extremely comfortable. I love the high waist on the pants (#nomuffintop) and how fitted the jacket is. I also like the notes of berry colour throughout the dark coordinates. (I also grabbed another pair of pants that I'm obsessed with from Hyba here. More to come on them soon!). If I don't want my phone flopping around in a pocket I'll usually bring My Tag Alongs pouch. In it I keep money or a debit card, chapstick (dry lips are horrible on a run), my keys and my public transportation pass (just in case). That's how I keep prepared...what about you guys?

*Some products used in this post were provided free of charge, all opinions are my own.