Day 1 at #TFW - Narces Fall/Winter 2016 Collection

The Fall/Winter 2016 Collection was off to a bold start with striking Reds, stunning lace, and intricate bead-work strutting down the runway on Day 1 of Toronto Fashion Week.

As the Ombré faded into Black, sheer and lace continued to dominate the fabric trends, incorporating the odd tulle skirt every now and then.

And with one Black cocktail dress with Blue beading we entered an array of breath-taking Cobalt and Navy Blues, which transitioned so effortlessly into Icy Blues and Silvers. If only you could have seen these metallic gowns in person, the bead-work is to DIE for!

What Narces Collection doesn't end with Bridal, which any Bride would be thrilled to wear. Intricate bead-work, luxurious lace, and tulle, tulle, and more tulle. All my favourite things! These gowns were the perfect finishing touches to another incredible collection!

Images and Video from Toronto Fashion Week

Massive Shoe Sale For All You Toronto Shoe Lovers

If you are in the Downtown Toronto Core and Love Shoes, this is for you. All Shoes are $10 each, unless otherwise listed in the descriptions, which are from back left to front right. Pick-Up Only!

If interested or require additional photos please email me at adayinthelifeof.rebecca@gmail.com.

Photo #1

1. Beige Snake Print Pumps: ShoeDazzle - Size 8

2. Cobalt Multi-Strap Sandal: ShoeDazzle - Size 8

  3. Fuchsia and Orange Bowed Wedge: Size 8 ($15)
4. Blue and Yellow Ankle-Strap Sandal: Beau+Ashe Size 8 ($15)
5. Red with Floral Print Wedge: ShoeDazzle - Size 8
6. Peach Wedge: Shoedazzle - Size 8

Photo#2

1. Snake Print Strappy Sandal: MIA - Size 7.5 ($15)
2. Snake Print Wedge: Shoedazzle - Size 8
3. Beige Patent Studded Pumps: Shoedazzle - Size 8
4. Black Patent Beading Detailing: Shoedazzle - Size 8
5. Coral and Beige Patterned Staw Pumps: Bamboo - Size 8 ($15)
6. Red and Grey Ankle-Strap Heel: Shoedazzle - Size 8

Photo #3

1. Merlot Wedge with Gold Ankle-Strap: Shoedazzle - Size 8
2. Cobalt Pump with Silver Studs: Shoedazzle - Size 8
3. Black Pump with Siver Stud Detailing: Shoedazzle - Size 8

Meet Me at the Barre - Toronto's Best Barre Classes

For the past 7 months I have been exploring what Toronto has to offer in the world of Exercise Classes with the help of ClassPass, whether being Yoga, Pilates, Dance, or Barre Classes, there is definitely something out there for everyone and anyone. My personal favourite is Barre, which is the perfect mixture of traditional Ballet movements and postures with Pilates and Yoga. Not only have these classes brought back my love for Dance it has also helped me create long lean muscles, strengthen my core, and enhance my flexibility by repetition, small triggered movements, and props, which are all part of your 50-60 minute class. If, like me 7 months ago, you're a Barre Class virgin you will definitely want to head to the Barre at one, or all, of the Studios/Classes listed below. 

Image Credit: Barreworks Favourite Barre Classes in Toronto

1. The Extension Room (Corktown): EM Barre 101 – Think Ballet Barre with a fitness twist. You will be guided through a 1 hour traditional Ballet Barre class while holding onto a weight. This class is perfect for everyone, whether having previous dance experience or not. You will be challenging balance, flexibility, strength, and concentration of alignment, using repetition to fine tune muscles in isolation. Weights are provided, all you need to bring is a water bottle and grip-socks if desired.

2. Barre3 (Downtown) – Yoga and Pilates mesh well when being inspired by Ballet Barre. Using props such as weights, toning bands, and a squishy ball, these movements will take you through high-intensity cardio, basic weight training, and micro-movements at the barre. The focus throughout class is to achieve toned, lengthened muscles while bringing up your heart rate and strengthening from head to toe. Mats and all props are provided, all you need to bring is a water bottle and grip-socks if desired.

3. Barreworks (Queen West): BAAARRE – Arms, Abs. and Ass, seems pretty self explanatory… no? If you have yet to try this class, what are you waiting for? A reduced cardio/low-impact workout is designed for maximum sculpting of multiple muscle groups. Using toning balls, a squishy ball, a toning band, and a mat, this class will engage muscles you didn’t even know you had and leaving them “leaner, longer, and stronger”. Mats and all props are provided, all you need to bring is a water bottle and grip-socks if desired

4. Mindful Movement Centre (Yorkville): Core Ballet – Pilates meets Dance is what to except when you come for class Tuesday nights. Every week you’ll experience a standard dancers warm-up, a plié series, and a collection of different exercises both standing and on the mat. Not to mention that Shelley is absolutely amazing, she has a great sense of humour, is very knowledgeable, provides modifications and corrections when needed, and is hands on. Mats and all props are provided, all you need to bring is a water bottle and grip-socks if desired.

5. YOGAthletix (Leslieville): Barre Fit – A more dance-like Barre workout complete with développes, retirés, demi-pliés, and grands battements. Class begins with a cardio-inspired aerobic warm-up followed by bringing out your inner ballerina at the barre for approx 20 mins. The last part of class is spent in the centre with a UGI ball or toning bands to sculpt the upper body and a yoga mat to tone and strengthen your core and lower back. Mats are not provided, however all other props are. Also, bring a water bottle and grip-socks if desired

6. Beach Pilates (Beaches): Booty Barre Plus – Toronto’s only studio offering the bootybarre® method, which incorporates elements of Dance and Yoga into a total body workout. Using fluid movements to allow the muscles to stretch and lengthen and cardio to elevate your heart rate. Weights are used to tone and strengthen the upper body, while squishy balls and discs are used to tone and strengthen the lower body, and mat-work at the end of class to strengthen your core and back body. Mats and all props are provided, all you need to bring is a water bottle and grip-socks if desired.

7. Pure Barre (Queen West) – Being Toronto’s newest Barre Studio, Pure Barre sure does have a history of success behind it. With numerous studios across the US, Pure Barre could be called the original or go-to Barre Studio. Built around low impact, small isometric movements targeting certain areas creating long/lean muscles. I can guarantee your butt, tights, arms, and abs will be feeling it the following day. If results are guaranteed after only 10 classes isn’t reason enough to go back maybe the up-beat fun music played throughout the class will be. Mats and all props are provided, all you need to bring is a water bottle and grip-socks.

The Best of The Best at The 58th Annual Grammy Awards

Taylor Swift wearing a two-piece, colour blocked Atelier Versace Skirt and Crop Top Duo.

Kaley Cuoco wearing a Naeem Khan sequinned, cutout Jumpsuit.

From Work to Play - PARTYSKIRTS Will Get You Through The Holidays

My most favourite time of the year is Holiday Season and it is quickly approaching! With that, numerous outfits are a must! Whether you're able to go out and buy an outfit for every occasion or need to reinvent some oldies but goodies currently in your wardrobe, fabulous can be put together in so many different ways. And what better way to celebrate with PARTYSKIRTS, a Vancouver based and manufactured brand run by two sisters, Lauren and Mariel Armstrong. Their products are made from 100% silk taffeta, available in 2 lengths, have custom designed patterns and custom died colours. Currently their brand can be purchased throughout Canada, recently available at Mendocino, and on the US Shopbop website. Price ranges are between $195 and $245 and ship from Vancouver, which means no additional duties and taxes for all you Canadians!! Check out how I styled their two core styles below for both work and play parties. Don't forget to visit PARTYSKIRTS for more information.

WORK PARTY:

Skirt: PARTYSKIRTS Dalmation $195 / Blouse: Wilfred Charial Blouse $145 / Booties: Aldo Bifano Ankle Boots $90 / Tights: Hue Opaque Control Top $15 USD / Lipstick: MAC DIVA Matte Lipstick / Purse: Danier Leather Raine Pebbled Leather Drawstring Bag $129

PLAY PARTY:

Skirt:  PARTYSKIRTS Sapphire Lady Length $245 / Crop Top: Wilfred Gerland Top $85 / Purse: Saint Laurent 'Mini Monogram' Crossbody Bag $1,550 USD / Sandals: Stuart Weitzman The Soundtracks Sandal $550 / Lipstick: Two Faced Melted Jelly Donut $25

#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

SimySkin Lifting & Maintenance Serums

I was lucky enough to partner up with Skincare Brand SimySkin to review their Anti-Aging Triple Advanced Face Serum Ages 25-45 and their Phase II Eye Serum Ages 25-45 a few months back. After using them daily for the past couple months I have watched these two products transform my skin by correcting dark spots, creating elasticity and firmness, reducing fine lines and puffiness, and enhancing brightness. This lightweight formula is easily applied after cleansing your face and before applying your daytime or nighttime moisturizer.

 

Here's a little about SimySkin:

• US brand that opened their doors in February 2014
• Creates age specific skin care products to help the aging process
• Relies heavily on science while developing products that actually work
• B12 is SimySkin's primary ingredient due to proven regenerative effects
• A lot of other natural ingredients are used, such as Pomegranate Extract, Sage, Seaweed, Honey, and Ginseng to name a few.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SIMYSKIN OR MAKE A PURCHASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE BY CLICKING HERE.

Best Dressed -Week #26 to #28

Nicky Hilton wearing a Valentino bridal gown with custom Christian Louboutin pumps.

Jenna Dawn Tatum at the Magic Mike XXL Amsterdam Premiere wearing a black eyelet Self Portrait tea-length dress with black sandals, simple half-up half-down do, and natural makeup. Jennifer Lawrence leaving her NYC Hotel wearing black crop top and matching high-waisted pencil skirt with black strap sandals, gold choker, metallic clutch, black sunnies, and long blond beach waves.

Jada Pinkett Smith at the Magic Mike XXL LA Premiere wearing a chartreuse Ermanno Scervino high-low cocktail dress with gold Christian Louboutin sandals,side-swept updo, and bold red lip. Kylie Jenner at the Cannes Lions Festival wearing a white two-piece, sequinned Francesco Scognamiglio undie-baring gown with pin-straight black hair, Stewart Weitzman nude sandals, and smokey eye/mauve lip combo.

Kim Kardashian West at the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival wearing a Blamain matching trouser and blazer ensemble layered overtop a plan black tank top. Amber Heard at the Magic Mike XXL London Premiere wearing a gorgeous red chiffon gown with black ankle strap sandals, whisped updo, bold lashes, and soft pink-nude lip.

Tuesday June 23rd #OOTD

Concert Tee: Kings Of Leon Mechanical Bull Tour / Skirt: Club Monaco / Sandals: Zara / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Monday June 22nd #OOTD

Blouse: Anthropologie / Trousers; H&M / Pumps: Zara / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Best Dressed - Week #24 and #25

Emily Blunt wearing an Elisabetta Franchi jumpsuit to the 9th Annual American Institute For Stuttering Benefit Gala. Blunt completed her H2T look with Kurt Geiger stilettos, OFIRA jewels, lightly tasselled hair, minimal makeup, and soft red lip. Laura Whitmore at the Investec Derby Festival: Derby Day wearing a Bora Aksu sheer blouse, Ermanno Scervino floral skirt, Armani nude heels, and impeccable Philip Tracy hat. 

Rachel McAdams at the 2015 Spike TV Guy's Choice Awards wearing a Roland Mouret cocktail dress with patterned bodice. Matching heels, side-swept bob, dramatic smokey eye, and berry lip were the perfect finishing touches.  Also at the Guy's Choice Awards, Chanel Iman wearing a white 2-piece Solace London column gown with diamond jewels, metallic clutch, pulled back updo, drastic smokey eye, and nude lip.

Camille Belle at the 'Jarassic World' LA Premiere wearing Andrew Gn shift dress with bold geometric  embellishment. Belle accessorized with a Jimmy Choo clutch, black Brian Atwood t-straps, beach waves, and mauve lip. Sandra Bullock at the 'Minions' World Premiere wearing a asymmetrical paisley-printed Stella McCartney dress with Jack Vartanian black diamond bracelet, black sandals, pin-straight blow out, light smokey eye, and nude lip. 

Laura Bell Bundy at the 2015 CMT Awards wearing wearing a strapless jumpsuit with floral pants and colour blocked bodice. Nude pumps and clutch, curled bob, light pink lip, and bold lashed completed her look. Also at the 2015 CMT Awards, Carrie Underwood wearing Thomas Wylde patterned mini with silver sandals and clutch, straight blow out, and smokey eye/nude lip combo.

Cara Delevingne at the Berlin Photocall of ' Paper Towns' wearing a maroon and yellow ensemble both by Mary Katrantzou. Delevingne accessorized with black stilettos, long tasselled curls, bronze smokey eye, and dark berry lip. Kendall Jenner at the 2015 Fragrance Foundation Awards wearing a bold red one-should Halston Heritage gown with black waist belt, black cage stilettos, diamond jewellery, and effortless hair and makeup.

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)

Friday June 19th #OOTD

T-Shirt: Gap / Skirt: H&M / Sandals: Vince Camuto / Necklace and Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Thursday June 18th #OOTD

Dress: Nanette Lepore / Shooties: Nine West / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Monday June 15th #OOTD

Dress: Anthropologie / Sandals: Aldo Shoes / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Thursday June 11th #OOTD

Blouse and Jeans: Anthropologie / Sandals: Zara / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co. / Necklace: Bauble Bar

Friday June 12th #OOTD

Peplum: Danier Leather / Jeans: 7 For All Mankind / Sandals: Aldo Shoes / Necklace: Anthropologie / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Tuesday June 9th #OOTD

T-Shirt: Danier Leather (old) / Skirt: Anthropologie / Pumps: Zara / Necklace and Bracelets: Tiffany & Co.

Monday June 8th #OOTD

Blouse: Anthropologie / Jeans: 7 For All Mankind / Bracelets: Tiffany & Co. / Stilettos: Christian Louboutin