Shop San Francisco

While I was in San Francisco over Labour Day weekend I came across a boutique on Hayes Street called Amour Vert that has quickly become one of my go to places to shop. Amour Vert is an American company proving that clothing can still be fashionable without destroying the environment in the process. All of their clothing is manufactured in the USA, from sustainable fabrics, with a no waste mentality, and using non-toxic dyes. Also, they have a Tees = Trees Program, where with every purchase of a t-shirt they will plant a tree within North American with their partners American Forest. On top of all that, their clothing is simply amazing. Great styles. Great quality. Great prices. They carry everything from silk blouses to wool dresses, leather booties to dainty jewelry, which makes there something for everyone. Check out some of my fav pieces from their current collection below, and be sure to visit their website by clicking here or 1 of their 8 gorgeous locations across California; click here for store locations. I know what I'm going to be doing tonight! Do you?

Sadie Blouse $128 USD | Coclico Joy Bootie $445 USD

Cory Sweater $188 USD | Hadley Jumpsuit $218 USD

Embroidered Halley Dress $218 USD | Long Crop Pant $148 USD

Embroidered Casey Tee $68 USD | Herkimer Pendant $58 USD
Images Obtained from the Amour Vert website.

Niagara-On-The-Lake: Self Guided Wine Tour

There's nothing better than a warm and sunny Fall weekend, especially when you're in Wine Country; Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario to be exact. Being able to taste yummy wines from multiple Wineries, while taking in the breathtaking vineyards and Fall colours is priceless. Typically I plan ahead and book a Wine Tour (my personal favourite is the Wine Trolley Tour, which you can book through Vintage Hotels), however this time we opted to explore Wine Country on our own, simply by getting a Map from the concierge desk at our hotel, Pillar and Post, and driving from Winery to Winery. This allowed us to visit more Wineries then the usual 2-3 on Wine Tours, and also allowed us to pick and choose which Wineries to visit. My boyfriend and I visited 9 Wineries over the 2 days we were in Niagara-On-The-Lake, and fell in love with some new Wineries and Wines! 9 Wineries may sound like a lot, however when there are more than 2 dozen in the area, we still have many more to explore. We also took advantage of some of the amenities at our amazing hotel, Pillar and Post, by spending most of our second day at the 100 Fountain Spa getting a couples massage, a mani/pedi for me, and spending time in the hot springs. We also had a more than delicious dinner at the Cannery Restaurant, where I had the Mediterranean "Martini" Seafood Linguini, which was absolutely A-MA-ZING! I highly recommend the restaurant! Overall it was a relaxing and romantic weekend away from the city, filled with good wine, great food, and quality time with my boyfriend! Be sure to check out what Wineries we visited and what Wines we recommend at each Winery below.

1. Two Sisters Vineyard - 2012 Cabernet Franc

2. Peller Estates Winery - Ice Cuvée Rosé

3. Reif Estate Winery - 2015 Baco Noir

4. Ravine Winery - 2013 Sand & Grave Riesling | 2015 Cabernet Franc

5. Coyotes Run Winery - 2014 Meritage | 2014 Syrah

6. Chateau des Charmes - Brut Méthode Traditionnelle | 2014 Cabernet Franc

7. Konzelmann Estate Winery - Méthode Cuve Close Riesling | 2014 Gewürztrzminer | 

2012 Chardonnay Family Reserve

8. Stratus Vineyards - 2013 Icewine (Red)

9. Colaneri Estate Winery - 2013 Insieme | 2013 Pinot Grigio | 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon | 

2013 Pinot Noir

Some Wineries have tasting flights of 3-4 different wines for a flat fee, where as some charge per tasting (NOTE: usually a tasting is 1oz). Because we were driving and wanted to hit up a bunch of different spots we shared flights or opted for a sample or 2 at each winery.

What's In My Travel Toiletry Bag

Since I have been traveling so much lately I have put together a core Toiletry Bag that comes with me every time I pack a suitcase. There is nothing more important when traveling then trying to maintain daily routines, especially when it comes to beauty. If you're like me and usually pack way too much clothes the last thing you need is a heavy Toiletry Bag full of full-sized products that you don't need let alone probably won't even fit in your suitcase. That is why I have fallen in love with travel sized products. I know, you're probably thinking there's nothing new with travel sized products, however the selection of products has significantly increased. Now you don't need to settle for just any brand, Sephora literally has all your favourites in travel size. I also have a subscription to Ipsy and GlossyBox, which are monthly beauty subscriptions that send out full and travel sized products exposing you to new brands. I however love receiving samples to have for traveling, it makes the packing experience that much easier when you have everything already. Check out some of my favourite travel products currently in my Louis Vuitton Toiletry Pouch 26!

(From Left to Right) 1. Marc Anthony: Oil of Morocco Argan Oil Hairspray | 2. Living Proof: PHD Dry Shampoo | 3. Comptoir Sud Pacifique Rollerball: Vanille Coco | 4. Alterna Haircar: Caviar CC Creme | 5.Oral B: Satintape Mint | 6. Sensodyne: Whitening plus Tartar Fighting | 7. Secret Clear Gel: Scent Expressions Cocoa Butter Kiss | 8. Adore Cosmetics: Cellmax Elite Facial Serum | 9. NeoStrata: Aqua Youth | 10. Bioderma: Sensibio H2O | 11. Ole Hendrikson: African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser | 12. Fresh: Black Tea Age-Delay Eye Concentrate  

#UltimateVegasOutfit

Vegas is one of the only places where dressing up, regardless what time of day it is, is a necessity. You never know where you're going to end up and with who, so you always want to look and feel your best. With an upcoming trip to Vegas later this week I thought it was the perfect time to start pre-planning some outfits and sharing them on my blog. From Pool Parties to Dinner to Drinks and Dancing the options are literally endless at these Vegas Hotspots.

Pool Party: Encore Beach Club 

Swimsuit: Triangl - Poppy Berry Lights ($89 USD) / Cover-Up: Amita Naithani Crochet Cover-Up Poncho ($138 USD) / Wedges: MICHAEL Michael Kors Gabriella Espadrille Wedge Sandal ($149.95 USD) / Lipgloss: M.A.C Lipglass in Angel ($15 CDN)

Head Lining Show: Britney - Piece of Me

 Blouse: Kate Spade New York Short Sleeved Embellished Floral Crop Top ($139 USD) / Leather Pants: Danier Leather Iona Stretch Lamb Leather Legging ($149 CDN) / Pumps: Christian Louboutin Pigalle 120mm Black Patent ($675 USD) / Lipstick: M.A.C Lipstick in All Fired Up ($17 CDN)

Drinks and Dancing: 1 OAK Las Vegas

Skirt: Club Monaco Hannelina Skirt ($229 CDN) / Crop Top: Lulu's Barefoot Cay Strappy Ivory Crop Top ($19 USD) / Clutch: Chanel Wallet on Chain (Price Upon Request) / Sandals: Stuart Weitzman The Whatastud Sandal ($575 CDN) / Lipstick: NARS Audacious Lipstick in Fanny

What's In My Beach Bag...

I've teamed up with Naja, a Lingerie and Swimwear brand, to share my Must Have Beach Bag Essentials, and I thought with my Beach Vaca to Jamaica next week the timing couldn't have been more perfect. Naja was founded by Catalina Girald with a vision to empower women through lingerie inspired by her travels throughout remote countries across the world. Naja strongly believes in high quality luxury fabrics, meticulous craftsmanship, being environmentally/socially conscious, and offering affordable prices. Naja also works with charitable organizations such as Golondrinas Foundation and Underwear for Hope. As quoted on the website, "It started with a belief that lineage should be about the woman who wears it… … and that it should make her feel good about herself." Make sure to check out their website by clicking here, you can also leave your e-mail to receive 10% off your first bra purchase or get $15 for every friend you refer.

Wicker Hat: H&M / Sunnies: Chanel / Tablet: Apple Ipad / Camera: Canon Power Shot / Earphones: Apple / Sunscreen: Ombrelle SPF 15 / Chap Stick: Blistex SPF 15 / Towel: WalMart / Beach Bag: TNA

Not only will you need your Beach Bag Essentials, you'll also need a Cute Suit or two for days lounging by the pool or at the beach. Look no further than Naja Swim. Suits from $95, made from recycled materials (plastic bottles to be exact), how can you pass that one up?

Faye Racerback One-Piece Navy ($95) / Taylor Crisscross Monokini Get Happy ($95)

Island Hopping On Board The Regal Princess

(Tranquil rock beach on the French Side of St. Martin.)

After a week long vacation on a Caribbean Cruise without internet, I am officially back to blogging. It was extremely relaxing to travel and explore different Islands throughout the Eastern Caribbean, feel the sun and warmth on my skin, and spend some quality time with my parents. Not to mention a week away from work, everyone needs some time away every now and then! Below are a few pictures of the 3 Islands I had the opportunity to visit: The Bahamas, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten/St. Martin.

Enjoying the beach in Princess Cays, Bahamas.

Saying farewell to The Bahamas with an incredible sunset.

Sittin' on top of the world overlooking Magen's Bay and the surrounding Islands of St. Thomas, USVI.

Getting into their famous Rum Punch on Magen's Bay Beach, St. Thomas USVI.

Perfect palm tree shadow in the crystal clear waters of Magen's Bay Beach, St Thomas.

Climbing the historical "99 Steps"up to Blackbeard's Castle, St Thomas.

Even Pirates want a beautiful view - Blackbeard's Castle, St. Thomas.

Walking off the ship into Paradise - St. Maarten.

Gorgeous sunset while leaving St. Maarten.

My 5 Days in London… Day 5

(Big Ben, House of Parliament, and the London Eye)

With my trip coming to an end I spent my last day in Londontown on a red double-decker bus, a must while in London, wanting to re-visit as many of the top sites as possible. I decided to go on a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Big Bus Tours, which took me to Big Ben, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey just to name a few.

Buckingham Palace - unfortunately The Queen was not home. She was off celebrating Easter and her birthday at Windsor Castle.

The Changing of The Guards at Buckingham Palace - considering this happens daily around 11am, I could not believe how many people came to watch the 2 hour ceremony.

The famous Westminster Abbey - where William and Kate wed back in April 2011.

The Tower of London - 1,000 years of history with The Royals and home of the Crown Jewels.

Tower Bridge - painted red, white, and blue to represent Queen Elizabeth's II's Silver Jubilee in 1977.

After completing all of the sites the Big Bus Tour had to offer I RAN to the Barbican Museum, literally making it just before closing, to visit The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier from the Sidewalk to the Catwalk Exhibition. Featuring over 165 couture and ready-to-wear creations from the 1970's to today. The exhibit also had numerous pieces from some of the most famous closets in the world of film and fashion, HELLO Madonna's infamous cone bras! Honestly, one of the best fashion exhibits I have ever been too; if you're in London the exhibit is on until August 25th 2014 at the Barbican Museum.

The best part of my day had to be my final dinner in London with Laura at Novikov Restaurant and Bar. We opted for the Italian Room and indulged in delicious pastas, wine, and the best bread and dips EVER! With a quick visit to the downstairs lounge for a couple of drinks, we called it a night, when back to her flat and watched some MIC for what I thought was the last time. (Don't worry I was able to find a site at home so I could watch the rest of the 7th Season!) 

[What I Wore - Dress: Club Monaco / Necklace: Chanel (Thanks Laura!) / Pumps: Christian Louboutin / Clutch: Opelle]

Honestly, one of the best trips I have had in a long time. Not only did I get to explore London all over again, I got to do it with one of my oldest friends. I can't wait until next time, because let's be honest, Ill be back soon!

My 5 Days in London… Day 4

Day 4 was another busy day filled of fun. When you're only in London for such a short period of time your days are jammed packed with touristy things you just can't afford not to do. First stop on the list was The London Eye, my parents told me I would be stupid not to do this. We opted for the Champagne Experience ticket because why not enjoy a glass of Champagne? It takes 30 mins to complete a full rotation all while seeing some of London's most popular sights, including Big Ben, Parliament Buildings, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, Tower Bridge, London Bridge, and Buckingham Palace just to name a hand full.
[What I Wore: Jacket: Danier Leather / Dress: Club Monaco / Bracelet and Necklace: Tiffany & Co. / Tights: Hue / Shoes: Top Shop / Handbag: Alexander Wang]

Walking up to The London Eye, I won't lie we were both getting a little nervous once we realised how tall it actually was.

Big Ben and House of Parliament from 135 metres up.

The view from the top of the London Eye (Big Ben and The Parliament Building).

Once we left The London Eye we walked along Oxford Street and Bond Street and did a little window shopping.  Unfortunately, not all the shops were open because it was Easter Monday but we definitely made due with what was available.  Honestly, all you Chanel lovers out there - the Chanel on Bond St. is to DIE for.

After spending a couple hours window shopping we walked over to Claridges to have High Tea, definitely something you have to experience while in London. I will warn you though, be ready for some sticker shock when receiving the cheque (or don't order two more glasses of champagne), but overall an experience I wouldn't take back.

The view from and of our table. Champs + Pastries = Happy Rebecca!

Enjoying some tea, champs, too many pastries, and amazing company at Claridges.

The last stop on our girls day out was at Selfridges and once again I was blown away by the size of this department store. Of course I couldn't resist doing some retail therapy, especially once I laid eyes on the massive shoe department, and picked up a pair of Valentino Rockstud flats. After a long day of seeing the sights, shopping, and enjoying high tea we decided to stay in, drink some wine, watch Made in Chelsea, and relax.  This however didn't happen like planned, as we locked ourselves out of my girlfriend's flat and spent most of the evening scaling balconies and hanging out with one of her neighbours from a couple flats over until we were rescued by the locksmith! Definitely an experience I will not forget!

My 5 Days in London… Day 3

On Day 3 I decided to get out of London and explore some of the countryside England has to offer. As a child I can remember going on Family Vacations and driving all across England, so when I came back almost 20 years later I couldn't resist. I found a tour with Golden Tours that went to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath all in one day, I told you I wanted to explore!  However, finding out when I went to check in that we wouldn't be visiting Windsor Castle because of it being Easter and the Queen's birthday, was kind of a bummer, but they already had an alternative location planned, which was Hampton Court Palace. For some brief history on Hampton Court Palace click here.

[What I Wore: Jacket and Jenas: Club Monaco / Brogues: Top Shop / Scarf: Danier Leather / Handbag: Alexander Wang]

Outside the front gates into Hampton Court Palace.

The Tudor Kitchen famous for being used for King Henry VIII.

The Staircase leading into Queen Anne's State Apartment.

The Historical Gardens of Hampton Court covering 750 acres of land.

Next stop on our tour was in Wiltshire to visit Stonehenge, my favourite. I have honestly wanted to revisit this Wonder of the World for almost 20 years.  I can remember as a kid being fascinated by this rock formation, although a lot has changed since my last visit. Before you could literally park right beside the stones and touch them, now you have to park 1.5 miles away at the Visitor Centre and take a tram to the attraction, which is then roped off becoming out of reach.  Although I was slightly disappointed by the new set up and the hardest rain I have ever been in, I quickly forgot about it once I was there looking at this beautiful mystery. Honestly how did those Druids do it?

Typical tourist Stonehenge picture including gloomy skies and water marks on the camera lens.

Last stop was an hour drive from Stonehenge to the Historical Town of Bath to visit the Roman Baths.  Bath is named after and known for the only natural hot springs in Britain which was used by the Romans as a religious spa. Still flowing natural hot springs today at temperatures reaching 96°C, it is sad to say it is no longer in use due to filtration restrictions. What remains of, at the time, the only religious spa in Northern Europe is absolutely beautiful and definitely something worth checking out.

The Bath Abbey, which is still in use today.

After some wandering around and shopping, on to the bus I went to travel back to London.

After returning to London around 8pm, I finished off a long day traveling the country enjoying an authentic British meal at Cheneston's Restaurant inside The Milestone Hotel London.  My girlfriend and her fiancé swear by this place, so I was super excited to try it.  After a well deserved martini and some freshly baked bread and flavoured butter (FYI the tomato butter was to die for), it was on to the main course and a delicious bottle of wine. Ending the night early, we headed back to their flat after dinner and watched an episode of Made in Chelsea before bed. The perfect end to a LONG day!

[What I Wore: Blouse: Aritzia / Tulle Skirt and Belt: Anthropologie / Bracelet: Tiffany & Co. / Pumps: Christian Louboutin]

Inside Cheneston's Restaurant at The Milestone Hotel London.