New Beginnings

9 months, a new job, new apartment, school and city later, I’ve finally found time to write a much-needed post for my blog.

It’s been a hectic couple of months with working full-time at Ardene, trying to find an apartment that suits my living needs, getting everything organized for the Journalism program at Ryerson (which I’m very thrilled for). It’s hard to believe I’m moving into my apartment in Toronto on Friday, and starting classes the following Tuesday. Yet also very exciting (and possibly a bit nerve-racking).

September always has its ups and downs. Starting a new life somewhere new can be intoxicating and eye-popping, but it is also scary and kinda morbid. Leaving the old life behind, as well as the people can be a difficult path to accomplish. Having to start all over again at basically everything has its own set of fears, but it’s also appealing.

For example buying stuff for my new apartment gives me a rush of joy, making it eye-catching and just all around me makes it easier to move away. I think I might have a little bit of a spending problem in terms on apartment shopping, yet it’s worth the money (hopefully). Buying bundles of decorative pillows, a new desk, art for the wall, and a bunch of other goods helps.

Toronto is a never sleeping all out adventerous city to live in, and I’m very excited for what chapter comes next in my life.

However scary new beginnings can be, they are also very rewarding. With the new life I’m heading into, I’m going to try to write more posts. It’s been way too long since the last one.

Have a lovely day.

Meg.

The Top Bra Picks ~ Essentials for your Lingerie Wardrobe

The root of a perfect closet, the bra receives the least amount of love but the most wear. This article of clothing is a must-have in a women’s wardrobe. Yet, most of us bra wearing gals only have around two to three different styles, when there’s such a lucrative market out there designed just for us. The amount of different options we have is actually quite astonishing.

So get ready to look in those drawers to see what you actually have in your arsenal, and if not, hit those fitting rooms ASAP.

T-Shirt Bra

When wearing a tight shirt and the lines of your favourite lace bra shows, you’ll be scrambling for another option. So that’s where the t-shirt bra comes into play. The smooth texture of this brassier makes the perfect fit for an everyday wear, you’ll be wondering how you even lived without it before now.

Push-Up Bra

Designed with additional support- in the form of gel, foam, water and so on – the bottom portion of the bra lifts the breast, giving the illusion of cleavage where none existed before. It’s a definite must-have for smaller chested women, and also for women with fuller figures.

Balconette Bra

Often referred to as the balcony bra, the balconette brassier lifts the bust to give a natural sexy look that can be worn day to day. It’s also universally flattering among breast types.

Strapless Bra

Definitely the queen of bras everywhere, every women can benefit from at least one great strapless bra in her wardrobe. But trouble in the fitting rooms in well known. Depending on your bust size, the type of strapless bra varies. For smaller chested women, a bra with a wider back and gripping elastic to keep it in place is probably the best option. Or you’ll be pulling your bra up every ten minutes.

Bralette

Better suited for smaller busted women (cups A to C to be safe), but can be worn by all breast sizes, the bralette is the most comfortable type of bra out there. It can be worn either during the day, at night, or even on your evening excursions. From lace to straps, this bra has the top number of options to choose from, so why not have numerous amounts of them in your underwear drawer. It is most definitely my all time favourite brassier on the market.

Sports Bra

Whether working out is part of your daily routine or not, you should have one (or ten) in your possession. Not only are they comfortable and stylish, they also provide the best type of support when you’re hitting the elliptical. You don’t have to worry about the straps falling off, or just being too sweaty for your daily bra (so pick one up today). But remember to shop for the sports bra that has the perfect amount of support for your chosen workout. A lighter impact one is best suited for yoga or Pilates, and a higher support bra for running or high-impact sports.

Backless Bra

When wearing a backless dress or top, the right bra is key to having that perfect look. With many different options to choose from, you’ll be turning heads from how sexy you’ll be looking. 😉

Have fun bra shopping guys, and remember these suggestions to get the ultimate look for your bust.

One Lovely Blog Award

Hello fellow friends.

A huge thanks to confessionsofanartteacher for nominating me for the One Lovely Blog Award. For other bloggers to actually notice my little space on the web, is quite frankly a humble and very enjoyable feeling. I’m very appreciative to you all who actually takes time to peek at my posts.

Okay now down to business.

Show appreciation by thanking the person who nominated you
Show these rules
7 Facts About Yourself
Nominate 15 Bloggers who you think have a Lovely Blog
Comment on one of their posts to let them know

I’m a twin. Yes, there’s another person in the world who’s a replica of me, but just call her Megan 2.0 (just kidding, her name is Catherine).

Pizza is number one on my favourite foods list. If I was able to eat pizza 24/7, trust me I would. But then again I’d probably be the size of a house (so maybe not). Seriously though, the Italians win my heart for inventing the yummiest food ever.

I find rain so soothing and refreshing. When it rains most people run for shelter. But not me. The feel of rain drops splattering on my face is truly so relaxing. Also, the sound of it on my roof at night is definitely my lullaby.

I’m getting a puppy :D. I’m so psyched to add a new member to my family, and just before Christmas as well. It’s perfect.

I was in Amsterdam a little under a month ago. It is such a beautiful and historic city to vacation in, and with so many different wonderful attractions to tour, I’d have to say one of the nicest places I’ve ever been. If you ever have a chance, go visit the city of clogs and the red light district. But just don’t get hit by a bike, cause well, it nearly happened to me once or twice.

I love Pilates. In my free time, I love to roll out my yoga mat and spend an hour Pilate-ing the life out of my body. It’s truly a very relaxing and rewarding experience. Also, if you ever have a chance, check out Blogilates. She has the ultimate Pilates videos on the web. You’ll be sweating and cursing at the screen before you know it. 😉

I used to live in England. For three years, I called the land of tiny roads and weird accents my home. To be more specific, I lived in Yorkshire. It’s such a beautiful part of the world, and I miss it all the time.

It was a lot harder than I thought to think of seven facts about myself, I hope these do justice. So down to the people I nominate for the One Lovely Blog Award.

I can’t wait to read your answers. Have fun doing so. 🙂

Why Pilates?

The one way that I love getting fit is through Pilates, it’s my go-to exercise for a clear mind and a healthy body. When you’ve had a hard day at work and the gym seems like a chore, there’s one activity that’ll make you feel relaxed, elated and seriously fit. Plus, Pilates isn’t just a celebrity fad, it actually works, and here’s why.

Say goodbye to stress.

Much like yoga, Pilates uses breathing techniques that helps through the tough moves. This definitely is a de-stress buster that gets your endorphins moving. It’s also very time efficient, you can complete a total body workout in just under an hour. Whether it’s in the morning or after work, Pilates provides a fun and stress free escape.

Strengthen your core.

More than anything else, Pilates in known for strengthening the core, and man, does it live up to its reputation! During every exercise, you focus on keeping your core engaged, while working your back, legs, arms and thighs. If done right, practiced at least three times a week, and with a healthy diet, you will see improvement in your whole body. That six-pack and a flat belly will show up within no time.

Relieve lower back pain.

Lower back pain is associated with bad posture, so how do you fix it? Basically by improving your dynamic stability – the ability of the body to hold itself in better alignment for longer, maintaining upright posture, stability and responsiveness – which is Pilates.

Also the creator of Pilates, Joseph Pilates, believed that by having awareness of breath and of alignment of the spine, we can strengthen the deep torso and abdominal muscles. So essentially a life free from back pain. Hurrah.

Fuss free.

This form of exercise can be done in the comfort of your own home, for free, and with no equipment. All you basically need is a computer and something to practice on; like a carpet or a yoga mat. I love how something so easy to achieve can have the ultimate results.

Blogilates!

Cassey Ho is a Pilates instructor, has a YouTube account called Blogilates, as well as a website, and a book. Her videos are seriously the best ones out there, but will definitely have you screaming at the screen because of the torture. You’ll be dying from these moves and she’s just talking about her nail polish (I’m not joking). Yet I absolutely love what she does. She has a calendar each month of exercise videos to complete everyday, go to her website for the October calendar here.

Seriously try it out and let me know what you think. It’ll be hard, these moves are definitely really hard to perfect, but when you do you’ll be so proud of yourself. 🙂

Have fun trying out Pilates~ remember as well as exercising always eat healthy and clean to get that body you’ve been dreaming about. Even though working out helps with getting slim, eating well is what gives you that six-pack.

If you remember that, keep up the motivation and have a great time then improvement will just be around the corner.

Till next time…

Must-Have Jackets for Fall

Hey all.

Fall to me is the perfect weather, not too hot or too cold. The cooler temps means warming up in something fury or patterned and polished as what I’ve seen in the fall collection this year. There’s only one word to describe it: Seventies.

Keep reading to see the outerwear that you’ll be adding to your mental wish list. With an assortment like this, you’re bound to find something you’ll love for the later fall season.

Leather jacket.

This staple jacket is definitely one of the top choices that never goes out of style. Possibly try something edgy this fall and opt for a bold colour, or a ombre design. I own a leather jacket from Danier and I absolutely love it, and will last forever.

Trench coat.

The trench coat has evolved thoroughly throughout the years; from different styles, lots of colours and patterns to choose from, you’ll never get bored with this jacket.

Corduroy jacket.

This Seventies favourite is posed for a serious comeback. Get ready to see corduroy on the streets again. Pair the jacket with a turtle neck to get the ultimate 2015 fall look. I absolutely love the purple coat, which is from Aritzia, and will be purchasing this item very soon.

Faux fur coat.

I’ve never been all that keen towards fur all together, and real fur is just too expensive and to say off-putting to wear, so there are many different stores that sell faux fur, so don’t worry about that. But this coat is definitely in trend this season. So if you want something soft and comfortable that’s in style then this coat is for you. 🙂

Blazer.

A suit jacket added to an outfit instantly changes the look. It can be worn casually, going to work, or even on a night out with your girlfriends.

Wrap coat.

When I first laid eyes on this jacket, it kind of looked a bit like a dressing gown to me. But it’s actually a really fashionable and comfortable coat to wear.

Poncho.

Ponchos are a must have piece for fall, you definitely will be chilling in style. With many different options out there, it’ll be hard not to purchase this trendy outerwear.

Plaid.

This preppy pattern makes a comeback for the fall 2015 collection. If your go to is a plain, simple-colour jacket then possibly be a little risqué with plaid. This jacket is eye-catching, but not over the top is design, it’s basically the perfect choice.

Military jacket.

The army jacket hasn’t gone anywhere, it’s still in style. What started out as a trend has reformed to a classic cover-up that can be incorporated into any style.

Vests.

This is an ideal choice for transitional weather. The vest can be worn with many different outfits at basically any occasion. Women have different needs, so there are many options out there to choose from: you got your faux fur vest, wool vest, to tailored office style.

Have fun shopping for fall jackets you guys, remember to think of this post when you do so. 🙂

Tattoo Inspiration

Hey beauties.

If you’re looking to permanently mark your body, but the nerves are getting to you, then luckily I have endless inspiration of appealing tattoos that will leave you feeling less anxious about expressing something on your skin.

Some people feel that marking your skin in seen as a sin, but tattoos can have significant meaning to your life. There are plenty of reasons to do it: the birth of your children, to commemorate lost loved ones, honour your heritage. But it’s still perfectly okay to get a tattoo with no meaning, maybe you just liked the design and want to show it off.

Whether you’re looking for a mark with meaning or a fun design, keep reading to check out these tattoo ideas.

Birds.

The first pic is of my tattoo, I got it two years ago when I turned 18. There is no real meaning behind it, I just loved the look of it. But if you’re looking for a meaning, and if you want dove tattoos, then they can symbolize purity, peace, love, goodwill and faith. They often fly away to also mean a fresh start in life.

Bows.

This tattoo actually has quite a significant meaning. Us females wear them in our hair and clothes as a sign of femininity. It’s logical to think it would have the same meaning as a tattoo. Yes, it does symbolize femininity, but also remembrance, strength, love, beauty, and union.

Feathers.

Native Americans believe the feather tattoo offers protection against evil spirits. It can also be a symbol of intelligence and mystery, like magic and the world of sorcery. But some people get it cause they like to design, and well, it has a pretty attractive look to it.

Quotes.

Whether it be a quote from your favourite song, or a word is another language, this tattoo can have such a personal meaning.

Dream catchers.

This tattoo is also popular is Native American cultures. A dream catcher is usually hung in a bedroom, above a bed, or sometimes above a door. The idea is that happy, optimistic dreams will pass through the night, while the negative dreams will become trapped. The tattoo has roughly the same meaning, protection against harmful dreams.

Roses.

Roses are a beautiful flower, but what do they symbolize? Well when the rose is without thorns it can be a symbol of being in love, but with thorns is a reminder that love does not come without sacrifices. But that’s get one meaning. Sailors symbolize the tattoo as an honorary purpose, like to represent their wife or girlfriend. The colour you choose can have different meanings as well. So before you get a rose inked, do some research to figure out the meaning. 🙂

Yorkshire Rose.

Similar to the rose tattoo, but the Yorkshire rose symbolizes heritage and ancestry. The White Rose of York (also known as the Yorkshire rose), is the symbol of the House of York and has yet been adopted as a symbol of Yorkshire, England. I’m from Yorkshire, so I want to get this tattoo eventually.

Solar system.

The solar system and galaxies beyond holds deep meanings for people, hence why so many people get cosmic tattoos. Personally I’ve always loved the idea of space, and to get the planets tattooed is a really neat and creative idea. Each planet holds significant meaning as well. Lets take Mercury for example, earth it its element, and its nature is cold and dry. The planet rules Virgo and Gemini. Also mercury is in analogy with the arms, the hands and the nervous system. Check it out here to find all the planets meanings.

Dog paw print.

The paw print tattoo holds a personal meaning if it memorializes a pet. Whether you had a dog, a cat, a rabbit or any other pet, it is possible to get a paw print of that animal tattooed in remembrance of your pet. My dog died about three weeks ago, and I really want to get her paw print tattooed on my wrist as soon as I can. But I want to add a paisley design in the print, just cause I really like the look of it.

Semicolon tattoo.

This tattoo has gained great popularity in the recent years, but holds a serious meaning behind it. The mark represents mental health struggles and the importance of suicide prevention. But why a semicolon? A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life.

Travel tattoo.

If you really like traveling, then getting either a plane or the planet (or both) tattooed on your skin is a really good idea. Instead of buying magnets as a souvenir, maybe opt for a tattoo instead next time.

I hope this post helped you tattoo addicts with inspiration on what to get inked next, or you newbies on what tattoo should be your first. I know I really want to run to the nearest tattoo parlour right now. Have fun getting inked. 🙂

Trendy Hats for Autumn

The beginning of Autumn means cool weather, colourful leaves and pumpkin spice lattes. It also means getting out those warm accessories so you don’t freeze to death; particularly hats. There are so many different options to choose from, some you probably never thought of wearing before.

If your go to hat is a beanie with a pom-pom on the end, and you feel like you’re in the mood for something different and chic cause that simple hat is just not cutting it for you anymore then keep on reading. These hats have fashionista written all over them. 😉

Felt hat.

This big bohemian hat is the centre of the 2015 fall fashion trend, match it with messy hair to get that ultimate boho image.

Slouchy hat with buttons.

Slouchy hats alone are totally stylish, but add in that button to make your outfit that much better.

Word beanies.

These hats are so awesome, there are so many different options that say so many different things. People will definitely stop for you in the streets to take a gander.

Floral beanies.

If you need more colour in your wardrobe then this hat may become your best friend.

Panama.

Pick up this hat of Ecuadorian origin if you want that foreign and totally trendy look.

Fedoras.

Fedoras are very hipster and sexy, so to be that hip hot chic then go out and purchase this ultimate hat now.

Flat caps.

When you think of flat caps old british men come to your mind right? Well, that used to pop in my mind. But they have a totally different fashion sense about them, the look is original and definitely very stylish.

Baseball caps.

I never liked baseball caps, I thought they were specific to men who played baseball. But if you find the right one – like the ones below – then you can totally pull off the look.

Knit headbands.

Even though this isn’t a hat per-say, it still keeps your ears toasty warm.

Berets.

Wear this French hat to look very à la mode.

I now have a new sense of style in terms of hats, so I definitely will be wearing these this fall. What about you guys?

Eyeliner Hacks

Getting that thin, smooth and perfect line on your eye seems like such a daunting task to accomplish. You’ll be standing if front of the mirror for forever, trying again and again, when you finally get so frustrated you give up.

But don’t fret, because there are many tricks out there to perfect that eyeliner, no matter how horrible you may think you are at it. So never let your winged eyeliner make you later ever again.

First of all, pick the type of eyeliner you’ll be using.

There are three main types out there~ liquid, pencil and gel eyeliner.

Then choose your colour.

Eyeliner comes in many shades, from black to glitter, so try choosing a colour that contrasts well with your eyes. For example, if you have blue eyes, stay away from blue eyeliner, try choosing a black or a brown instead to make your eyes pop.

Always use an eyeliner technique for your eye shape.

Figure out the shape of your eyes and see what style would give you the best look possible. Use the photo below to figure this out yourself.

Use high-end makeup, not drug store brands.

The brand of makeup you use has a big effect on how well that eyeliner works, and how long it lasts. A liquid eyeliner at Sephora will last the whole day, maybe even the night as well, but an eyeliner from Cover girl might not be so lucky. So ladies make sure you use the best possible brands out there to get that perfect look.

Use the edge on a credit card (or basically any card) to get that perfect flick.

If you want that winged look, but the shaky hand struggle if real, then use the end of a credit card to get that perfect line.

Or use scotch tap if you’re really worried about messing up.

Just use a bit on the end of your eye and outline it with the eyeliner, when you’ve accomplished that perfect flick then carefully take the tap off.

Or go free-handed.

If you feel adventurous and up to the challenge, use your free hand, create an outline, the fill it in.

Use dots.

If you’re just starting out with liquid eyeliner, begin with dots. Then slowly connect them.

Use a pencil eyeliner, and just fill in the edge of your eyes.

If you want a natural look, but also want to make your eyes pop, then use a pencil eyeliner and trace the edge of your eye.

If you make a mistake, use concealer or put a bit of makeup remover on a cue-tip.

And Remember~ don’t freak out if you make a mistake!

Try a second or even a third time. Practice makes perfect after all.

Have fun trying out these little tips. You will succeed eventually in the eyeliner department, I promise, just be a bit patient until then. 🙂

Real Neat Blog Award

Hey all.

Thanks to the wonderful Megan Hurst, I was nominated for the Real Neat Blog Award. Seeing as this is the second award I’ve been nominated for, it gives me such a rush of happiness, I just love blogging so much. 😀

So before I get started, here are the rules for this award:

Put the award logo on your blog.
Answer 7 questions asked by the person who nominated you.
Thank the person who nominated you, linking to their blog.
Nominate any number of bloggers you like, linking to their blog.
Let them know you nominated them.

Onto my answers:

1. Who is your main style inspo?

I’d have to say Vanessa Hudgens and the “old” Miley Cyrus. Both of them had such an effortless, chic and of course boho look about them, I just love everything about their style.

2. If you could live anywhere, where would you live?

It’s a tie between Australia and England. One of my best friends just moved to Australia so I’d love to see him again, and half of my family lives in England so I’d also love to be with them as well. Tricky choice to pick.

3. What is your favourite shop?

I used to have an obsession with American Eagle and Brandy Melville, that’s basically my whole closet. But right now I’m really fond of Banana Republic and Aritzia. 🙂

4. What do you want to do more?

Traveling. Next summer I just want to go with a few friends and back pack across Europe for a month or so, to be adventurous and see what other parts this land has to offer.

5. What is your current favourite accessory or piece this season?

My all time favourite summer piece was jogger pants, this article of clothing is so comfy and cute, and can and will be worn in the fall. But for Autumn I’d have to go with boots. I love all things boots~ over the knee, ankle boots, booties with a heel, Hunter rain boots, my Timberland boots for the cooler weather ~ strutting down the street in them makes me feel like a fashionista.

The blogs that I nominate are:

Fashion.Beauty.Life

just another girl on planet earth

That Trendy Redhead

My questions are as follows:

Pencil or liquid eyeliner?
Name one thing you want to do before you die…
If you had one personal “selfish” wish, what would it be and why?
Favourite makeup brand?
Who is your fashion role model?

Can’t wait to read your answers. 🙂

September Goals

A new month means a new and improved me, It also means no more summer, so goodbye heat and hello fresh fall weather. It’s time to set out to accomplish meaningful and productive goals, ones that’ll make me happier and make my life that much better.

My summer was quite fun; I saw many of my wonderful friends, went to a few parties and might have gotten a bit tipsy, went camping with my besties, and I’d have to say bonfires would be at the top of my list. Mostly every weekend we’d have one in either the forest or my friends back yard, but it’s time to put those memories behind me and produce new ones.

Having goals makes you that much more driven to do the best you can possibly do, and it will definitely excite you. This past week has been pretty horrible, my little dog died and one of my best friends moved to Australia, so I’ve kinda been down in the dumps, however getting out of my little funk and setting my mind on positive goals has lifted my spirits.

So here are my goals for this month of September. 🙂

Exercise at least 4 times a week.

Blasting my stereo and doing pilates definitely makes me happy (well maybe after my workout is completed). Knowing that I’m trying my hardest to get my body into something that I can be proud of and want to show off keeps me motivated.

Eat clean and healthy.

Deleting junk food from my diet and substituting it with healthy alternatives is a goal that is most definitely a hard one to accomplish, but has the best results. Eating a piece of pizza or a slice of cake might make you happy in that moment of time, but guilt will soon follow. So if you stick with the goal and eat healthy there will be no regrets, just smiles. Remember~ a moment on your lips… forever on your hips.

Work, work and more work.

Going to work and being productive gets my mind off things, it helps build my confidence, and of course roles in the money. I just got a job at Ardene, a retail store, and am really enjoying it so far. So thumbs up for working.

Blogging.

Writing my posts and getting feedback from you guys definitely boosts my mood. So I’m going to try to post at least 5 times a week, I’ll try everyday but sometimes life gets in the way.

Shopping.

Spending money probably shouldn’t be one of my goals, but buying new clothes is one thing that excites me to no end. I really need new fall clothes, shoes, and basically everything anyway, so I’m going to go on a splurge and buy many things (in reason… hopefully).

Apply to University.

I really want to attend University of Toronto in January for English, and the applying period is in September, so that is one thing I’m really thrilled about. Actually having a goal for my life is probably one of the most fulfilling feelings.

SMILE!

Just smile as much as I possibly can. 😀

What are your goals for September?

Miss Megs Twenties

Just me, myself & I.