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Tuesday, December 30, 2014

My Style: Party Ready in Fringe & Faux Fur!

Joe Fresh Dress & H&M Faux Fur Jacket New Year's Eve Outfit

I can't believe that it's already New Year's Eve tomorrow night!!! In anticipation of the big night, I have been getting my party look ready to ring in 2015 in style! I have already chosen to wear Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art makeup and did my own glitzy nails with the easy imPRESS Press-On Manicure, now all what's left is the outfit (and my New Year's kiss :). When I saw this little black fringe dress at Joe Fresh, I knew I found the perfect New Year's Eve party dress.

Party Ready!:  Joe Fresh Little Black Fringe Dress, H&M Faux Fur Jacket, Shop For Jayu Neon Necklace, Expression Booties from Hudson's Bay, Aldo Feather Clutch, fashion, style, New Year's Eve, Outfit, Look, OOTD, party, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto, ontario, canada, sunglasses, jewlery, accessories

Joe Fresh has some great fashion party pieces that are perfect for a fun night out, like this dress. The fringe along the front adds the perfect amount of festive fun, and will look fabulous when I'm dancing the night away. This dress is also super comfortable and fully lined.

Monday, December 29, 2014

Exhibit: Taking Time to Remember!

Toronto Public Library's Four Families, One War Exhibition Review

I believe November 11, Remembrance Day, should be a National Holiday. To take only 60 seconds at work at 11:00am (and only if your workplace participates) to remember all those people who lost their lives in war, is not enough. Other countries around the globe do much more to honour Canadian soldiers, so why does Canada do so little? I was reminded of the heartache and loss of The Great War at The Toronto Public Library's recent exhibit Four Families, One War.

Four Families, One War Exhibit at Toronto Public Reference Library, culture, exhibition, art, artmatters, world, one, great, history, ontario, canada, soldiers, true, stories, photographs, letter, proporganda, posters, the purple scarf, melanie.ps

The exhibit examines the experience of four Toronto families and their personal involvement in World War One.

Sunday, December 28, 2014

Nail Art Review: Glitz & Glamour from imPRESS!

imPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails Review

Just in time for New Years' Eve, I decided to add some Glitz and Glamour to my look with some  fabulous nails from imPRESS Press-On Manicure from Braodway Nails.


For my New Year's Eve look, I've already decide to add some glamour to my eye's with Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art, and I wanted to continue the sparkle look with my my nails. But the past and next few days are so hectic and busy with work and family, that I have no time to visit the salon. I wanted some glitzy nails for the big night, so I was super excited to try imPRESS Press-On Manicure nails, when they were sent to me for free, to try at home a few weeks ago.

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Exhibit: Bright Colours & Apocalyptic Darkness at The Power Plant!

The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery's Julia Dault & Pedro Cabrita Reis Exhibition Review

I recently visited The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery at The Harbourfront Centre in Toronto to check out the two latest exhibitions - Julia Dault: Colour Me Bad and Pedro Cabrita Reis: fourteen paintings, the preacher, and a broken line. I was so surprised and had so much fun on my first visit to The Power Plant to check out Sanatorium, that I wasn't quite sure what to expect from these latest exhibitions.

Julia Dault: Colour Me Badd Exhibit at The Powerplant Contemporary Art Gallery at The Harbourfront in Toronto, artmatters, culture, painting, scultpture, new york, canadian, artist, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, ontario, canada

Colour Me Badd takes its name from the 1990's music group Colour Me Badd, who were known for wearing bright coloured hues, and the influence can be seen throughout the exhibit. A mix of paintings and sculptures, some recent and or a remix of past work, make up this small exhibit.

Saturday, December 20, 2014

Skincare Review: Fabulous Christmas Gift Ideas from The Body Shop!

The Body Shop Glazed Apple Shimmer Lotion and Frosted Cranberry Shower Gel Review & Pink Grapefruit Festive Gift Set Preview

Still looking for a fabulous gift idea for the beauty lover on your Christmas list? Well The Body Shop has got you covered!

Pink Grapefruit Festive Pick Gift Set from The Body Shop, beauty, skincare, wash, lotion, scrub, christmas, ideas, shopping, toronto, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanie.ps

The Body Shop has a huge selection of gift sets and ideas, in a wide variety of bath and body products with different scents, for all types of beautiful people and budgets.

Friday, December 19, 2014

Makeup Review: Sweet Tintations from Benefit!

Benefit's Benebalm, Lollibalm, Benetint & Lollitint Review

Still looking for a great gift for the makeup lover on your Christmas gift list? Benefit has a lot of gift sets to cover all varieties of makeup junkies and budgets.

Benefit Sweet Tintations Gift Set: Benebalm, Benetint, Lollibalm, Lollitint, makeup, review, lip, stain, gloss, beauty, benebabe, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto, ontario, canada, christmas, holiday

I first saw this Sweet Tintations Benefit gift set at The National Women's Show in Toronto for $30, and just had to buy it. I may be a little behind, but I still haven't tried Benefit's tints or balms. So at $30 for both products in two shades, the Sweet Tintations gift set was a steal!

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

My Style: Santa & Reindeer!

Two H&M Christmas Sweaters Outfits

Tis the season to be jolly and wear holiday themed sweaters! I have seen many people sporting some fun and crazy Christmas sweaters lately, and there's no better way to get in the holiday spirit but to put on a Christmas themed top.

My Style!: H&M Santa Sweater, BCBG Skirt from Hudson's Bay, Christmas Socks, Urban Outfitters, Shop For Jayu Bracelet, holiday, fashion, winter, merry, outfit, OOTD, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada 

 My Style!: H&M Reindeer Sweater, Noisy May Distressed Jeans from Hudson's Bay, Shop For Jayu Bracelet, holiday, fashion, winter, merry, outfit, OOTD, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada, necklace, Pugs Gear, Toque

The retails stores and malls are packed with sweaters in red and green, but these two I saw at H&M caught my eye.

Monday, December 15, 2014

Exhibit: Michelangelo Is Just Like Us!

AGO's Michelangelo: Quest for Genius Exhibition Review

Even geniuses feel like failures and have bad days. That's what the AGO is trying to portray in one of their newest exhibits Michelangelo: Quest for Genius.

Michelangelo: Quest for Genius Exhibit at AGO in Toronto, culture, art, artmatters, italy, italian, drawings, exhibition, the purple scarf, melanieps, ontario,canada, ink, pencil, chalk, figures, architecture, studies, head, lena, swan, painting
Studies for the Head of Lena for the painting Leda and the Swan, around 1530
Through 30 rare drawings, Quest for Genius tells the story of Michelangelo's thought processes, obsession to detail, his quest for perfection, and his frustrations at perceived failures. 29 of the drawings are on loan from Casa Buonarroti, a Florentine palazzo designed by Michelangelo which was later converted to a museum by his great nephew. Both architectural and figurative drawings are represented, some the practice runs of some of his most famous works. Others are visions of projects never completed.

Friday, December 12, 2014

Skincare Review: Minty Soft Skin from Vitabath!

Vitabath Sweet Pink Peppermint Body Wash & Lotion Review

Just in time for Christmas, I recently received the Vitabath Sweet Pink Peppermint  Body Wash & Lotion Set in my fabulous Spark Sessions Swag Bag. I've been using both the body wash and lotion for the past few weeks and not only do they smell and feel great but they helped me get in the Christmas spirit!

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I'm not a huge peppermint scent fan, but the mix of vanilla and peppermint is actually quite refreshing. For only $16.99, both products come together in a cute and festive silver carrier, which makes it a great gift for any beauty lover on your gift list.

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

My Style: Soft, Warm & Cozy!

H&M Sweater, Trousers & Dr. Martens Boots Outfit

With the weather drastically turning cold and the sun rarely shining, I just want to wrap myself in soft, warm, cozy clothes and never leave the house. Unfortunately, I have a job that I need to go to that pays for necessities like food, rent, and of course clothes. So it's sometimes hard to find warm and cozy fashion that not only keeps the cold out but is fashionable as well. So when I spotted this soft purple(!) sweater at H&M in the Toronto Eaton Centre, I knew I hit the winter style jackpot!

My Style!: Purple Sweater and Polka Dot Trousers from H&M, Infinty Faux Fur Scarf, Floral Dr. Martens Boots from Hudson's Bay, Guess Purse, Joseph Nogucci Elephant Memory Stone Bracelets, fashion, style, styletips, winter, winterstyle, shopping, warm, cozy, soft, outfit, OOTD, toronto, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps, accessories

Not only is the sweater a beautiful dark purple colour (my fave), but it's warm and was on sale for $20!

Monday, December 08, 2014

Exhibit: Master Storytelling & Cocktails at MOCCA!

MOCCA's Vera Frenkel: Ways of Telling Exhibition Review

Last week I enjoyed a self-playing piano and a scotch at Toronto's newest and coolest pop-up bar at The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art. The bar, called ...from the Transit Bar, is part of MOCCA's newest exhibit Vera Frenkel: Ways of Telling.

Piano from ...from the Transit Bar from Vera Frenkel: Ways of Telling Exhibit at Museum of Canadian Contemporary Art , MOCCA in Toronto, pianist, art, artmatters, canadian, artist, the purplescarf, melanieps, culture, installation, video, ontario, canada
Self-playing piano from ....from the Transit Bar, 1992, reconstructed 2014
Vera Frenkel: Ways of Telling features work of multidisciplinary Toronto-based artist Vera Frenkel. Her work includes video, performance, sculpture, installation, which all tell stories that seemed personal to Frenkel, and felt personal to me as well.

Thursday, December 04, 2014

Explore Toronto: Chillin' at The Chill Ice House!

CHILL Ice House Review

Looking for a unique place to visit? If it's not cold enough outside for you yet, visit one of Toronto's coolest bars - CHILL Ice House.

Explore, toronto, chillicehouse, lounge, travel, bar, sculptures, drinks, cocktails, cold,cool downtown, king street,bathurst, ontario, canada, largest worlds,the purple scarf, melanieps, uniikii
Ice Bar in Chill Ice House Lounge
I recently visited the CHILL Ice House for a private event for Uniikii Inc. Located just south of King Street on Bathurst Street, it may look like an ordinary bar on the outside but inside CHILL Ice House is a winter ice wonderland. 

Wednesday, December 03, 2014

My Style: My Heart Beats T.O.!

HeartBeats T.O. T-shirt & Noisy May Distressed Jeans Outfit

Back in September, I enjoyed the annual Manifesto Festival at Yonge-Dundas Square downtown Toronto. As well as some amazing street art and concerts happening, there were also many local vendors selling some really cool fashions. I bought two different Toronto t-shirts, one from 1 Love T.O., which I featured in a past Style Post, and the other from HeartBeats T.O.

HeartBeats T.O. T-shirt, Noisy May Distressed Jeans from Hudson's Bay, Forever 21 Booties, Shop For Jayu Necklace and Bracelet, fashion, mystyle, styletips, shopping, myheartbeats, heart, tee, Toronto, love, ontario, canada, outfit, OOTD, EKG, the purple scarf, melanieps, who wears jayu best, style

I love the print design of this T-shirt, such a cool idea!!! The Toronto skyline forms a heartbeat much like an EKG machine readout. "HeartBeats T.O. is a clothing line designed to express the love for the City of Toronto in a unique way."

Monday, December 01, 2014

Exhibit: The Odyssey of Stanley Kubrick!

TIFF Bell Lightbox's Stanley Kubrick: The Exhibition Review

The TIFF Bell Lightbox downtown Toronto has been on a roll with amazing exhibitions from some of the great film makers of our time. A few years ago it was Tim Burton, and last year Canada's own David Cronenberg was featured. Now, the life and work of one of the film industry's all-time greats, is on display in an amazing exhibition at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Stanley Kubrick: The Exhibition features rare photographs, letters, props, and costumes from the 50-year career of the late great director.

Stanley Kubrick: The Exhibition at TIFF Bell Lightbox in Toronto, culture, film, movies, director, filmaker, art, artmatters,ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps, props, costumes

Taken from an extensive archive from Kubrick's home and workplace, this exhibition takes a closer look at both his personal and work life and the films he created.

Friday, November 28, 2014

Makeup Review: Eyes That Will Get Noticed!

Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art Lid + Line + Lash Review

Just in time for holiday party season, Revlon recently introduced a limited edition two-in-one glamourous eyeshadow and eyeliner makeup duo: Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art Lid + Line + Lash. I was lucky enough to receive two of the eye makeup colours from Revlon, to test out for myself: Lilac Luster and Topaz Twinkle.

Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art Lid + Line+ Lash in Lilac Luster and Topaz Twinkle, review, beauty, eyeliner, eyeshadow, holiday, look, toronto,ontario, canada, thepurplescarf, melanieps

Since apparently, a woman's eyes is one of the first things a man will notice, as a single lady I love drawing attention to my hazel coloured eyes and making a statement with my eye makeup. Revlon PhotoReady Eye Art Lid + Line + Lash accomplished exactly that. The slim tube, which looks similar to the Revlon Nail Art polish, contains a cream metallic eye shadow on one side and glittery eyeliner on the other.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Event: Sparks Ignited at Spark Sessions!

Spark Sessions Fashion & Beauty Blogger Conference Recap

Two weeks ago, fashionably dressed ladies and gentlemen braved the cold weather and snow, and traveled to District 28, on the south side of Leslieville in Toronto, to attend the second annual Spark Sessions Fashion and Beauty Blogger Conference.

Spark Sessions Fashion and Beauty Blogger Conference 2014 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Brands, PR, Companies, Learn, Networking, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps

Spark Sessions is a two day event organized by the fabulous blogger ladies Melissa Anwar (Chic Darling), Anjali Handa (beyondthedrop.com), Nicole Wilson (Dainty Girl), Elaine Atkins (Toronto Beauty Reviews), Melissa Grosser (The Domestic Peach), Anum Khan (Summerxskin), Jenny Jovanovic (Crazy, Style, Love), and Deanne Castro (My Fash Avenue). It's the only conference in Canada that is put on by bloggers for bloggers, which makes it quite unique. I enjoyed the first Spark Sessions Conference so I was really looking forward to this year's event.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

My Style: Simple & Sexy Black!


Vero Moda Dress from Hudson's Bay Outfit

I'm always on the lookout for a new twist on the classic little black dress. A few months ago I got a funky little black dress from Bench, but when I saw this sexy black Vero Moda dress at the Hudson's Bay Danish Design preview, I knew I must own it!

My Style!: Bree Vero Moda Dress and Expression Wedge Booties from Hudson's Bay, Shop For Jayu Neckalce, Via by Vieta bright pink clutch, Winners, fashion, styletips, outfit,OOTD, black, toronto,ontario, canada, thepurplescarf, melanie.ps, sexy, simple, backless

I know it's not quite 'little', but for someone my height, a little dress sometimes equals a long top. So I love the hem length of this Bree black Vero Moda dress. And because this dress is so form fitting, the hem length makes the silhouette feel more demure and retro.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Exhibit: Reliving Toronto's Turbulent Art Scene!

AGYU's Is Toronto Burning Exhibition Review

Over the weekend I made the long treacherous journey on the TTC to the Art Gallery of York University (AGYU), located on York University's campus. The reason for this journey was to see the AGYU's newest exhibit Is Toronto Burning? Was it worth the almost 90 minute commute (one way)? I'm still not sure.

Is Toronto Burning? Exhibit at Art Gallery of York University, culture, art, artmatters, history, 1977, 1978,1979, exhibition, photo,photography, video, artists, ontario, canada, the purple, scarf, melanieps

Trying to find the AGYU was a little difficult. Once I got off the TTC bus at York University Commons, I asked four different York University students where the art gallery was. None of them knew. I took this as not a good sign. There were also no clear directional signs. I finally found it in the Accolade East building across from the bus stop, at the end of the hall on the left.

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Skincare: Soft Skin Restored!

MaskerAide Facial Sheet Masks Review

I love treating myself to a facial mask and a glass of wine at the end of a long work week. It's especially a treat to pamper myself in the winter, staying in the warm indoors, watching the cold snow blowing by my window. And now that the cold weather is here, my sensitive skin needs more TLC.

MaskerAide Facial Sheet Masks: IDon't Wanna Grow Up, Detox Diva, Beauty Rest'ore, review, skincare, face, toronto, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps

My skin takes a beating from the cold dry air during the cold Canadian months. My legs, hands, and scalp get itchy and dry and the skin on my face gets dry and dull looking. That's why I was excited to try three MaskerAide Sheet masks courtesy of ObsessedCanada.com.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Event: My Annual Girls Weekend with My Mom!

The National Women's Show in Toronto Recap

Every fall for more than 10 years, my mom and I have had a standing date, a girls weekend where we catch up with each other, eat good food, and of course shop until we drop (sometimes quite literally)! 

The National Wome's Show, Toronto, Lifestyle, fashion, beauty, products, vendors, samples, girls weekend, shopping, event, ontario, canada, fun, 2014, the purple scarf, melanieps, mom

My Mom travels to Toronto on the bus and train, from the small hamlet she lives with my Dad, north of Toronto. Our Mother-Daughter weekend is always the weekend The National Women's Show is in Toronto, and we have so much fun at the show!

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

My Style!: Warm & Chic!

H&M Sweater Dress & Lahtiset Boots from Uniikii Outfit!

I was recently invited to a preview of the unique and fashionable products offered by Canadian company Uniikii Inc. at the cool Chill Ice House downtown Toronto. I had the opportunity to view some of the amazing and fashionable lines they carry like Finnish felt footwear company Lahtiset. I loved the design of the wool felt boots they make. Not only are they unique and fashionable, but extremely warm which is perfect for Canadian winters!
 
My Style!: Warm + Chic: H+M Sweater Dress, Lahtiset ryppy wool felt boots, Aarika Pohjola Wooden Bracelet from Uniiki, Guess Purse, Purple Scarf, fashion, styletips, shopping, toronto, canada,ontario, outfit, winter, the purple scarf, melanieps, finland, finnish, design, aki choklat,, pug gear, toque

Founded in 1921 in Finland, Lahtiset is one of a handful of companies worldwide that still work with a process called "wet felting" which enables them to create their unique and beautiful footwear. Made from pure lamb's wool, each and every pair of boots takes about eight days to make. 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Exhibit: Toronto's Urban Fabric!

Textile Museum of Canada's Urban Fabric Exhibition Review

The fabric of life is delicate. Family, friends, work, and more are all important threads that make up your own personal fabric piece. Pull a thread and the piece starts to unravel. But what would Toronto's fabric look like? That's what the Textile Museum of Canada's examines in its latest exhibit, Urban Fabric: Portraits of a City.

Urban Fabric Exhibtion at Textile Museum of Canada in Toronto, culture, art, artmatters, video, photography, painting, ontario, canada, urban, enviroment, the purple scarf, melanie.ps

Toronto's urban environment and its dwellers all play a part to create its 'urban fabric'. Six artists have come together to create an interesting exhibition that captures Toronto's ever changing 'stuff' that makes up this great city.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Home Life: I Design My Dream Living Room from Modani!

Modani Living Room Designed & Styled

Last month I was among a group of bloggers that was approached by furniture company Modani modern furniture to design a room with their products that reflect our personal style. I always have fun decorating my apartment, and jumped at the chance of styling my dream apartment with a dream budget!

My Dream Living Room!: Furniture from Modani, lifestyle, home, decor, decoration, design, toronto,ontario, canada, zebra, rug, chairs, sofa, pillows, cushion, desk, work, lamp, chandelier, lighting, the purple scarf, melanieps

Modani is a furniture store that offers high quality designer furniture specializing in contemporary and modern pieces. Modani challenged me to design a living room setting infused with my personal style. As no surprise to my readers, my style is a little eclectic, which is represented in the room I designed.

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Shopping: Pretty Customizable Clothing for ALL!

eShakti Dress Review

Ever wanted a stylish customized dress but didn't want to pay the steep price? Me too! That's why I was so excited when a few months ago, I was approached by eShakti to review their ordering process and one their dresses.

eShakti Floral Applique Lace Dress, Aldo Feather Clutch, Belt, Suzy Shier Purple Flower Necklace, online, fashion, clothing, customize, review, toronto, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, style, styletips, shopping, ordering

eShakti is an online fashion company based in India, that offers customizable clothing from size 0 to 36. They specailize in customizing the fit and style of a garment.

Monday, November 10, 2014

Exhibit: Enter the Mystical Realm of PARDES!

Koffler Gallery's PARDES Exhibition Review

Last week I visited the Koffler Gallery at Artscape Youngplace in Toronto's westend to enjoy their latest exhibit PARDES. Their previous exhibition Penelope Stewart: Vanitas was one of the most unique exhibits I've seen in a while, so I was excited to see what PARDES had to offer.

PARDES sound and multimedia art exhibit at Koffler Gallery in Toronto: Ophan, 2014 by Nadav Assor, culture Artscape, Youngplace, Gallery, Exhibition, Ontario, Canada, Israel, Israeli, artists, orchard, hebrew,  the purple scarf, melanie.ps, art, artmatters, drone, prayer, shawl
Ophan, 2014 by Nadav Assor
PARDES brings together four Israeli sound and multimedia based artists "to investigate notions of mysticism, heresy, and the occult from secular perspectives, as they relate to contemporary society." 

Monday, November 03, 2014

Exhibit: Textiles & Technology Get Twisted!

Gladstone Hotel's Hard Twist 9 Exhibition Review

A few weeks ago I visited the Gladstone Hotel to check out the Hard Twist 9 - Fibre Optics exhibit. This interesting textile exhibition examined the partnership of textiles and technology on how textiles and computer technology connect and touch each other.

Hard Twist 9 - Fibre Optics at Gladstone Hotel in Toronto : Knitted Swatch by Greta Grip, culture, textile, art, artmatters, exhibit, exhibition, jury, showcase, computer, technology, artists, ontario, canada, free, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps
Knitted Swatch by Greta Grip
Hard Twist is a community event that showcases work, both large and small, from a variety of participants, from well established artists to students.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Haircare: Soft & Full Hair!

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Shampoo & Conditioner Review

Over the summer time I received John Frieda Luxurious Volume Shampoo and Conditioner for colour treated hair, in a swag bag at a shopping event I attended. I started using them over two months ago, and I am quite happy with how soft they made my hair feel.

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Shampoo and Conditioner for colour treated hair, haircare, beauty, review, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto,ontario, canada

I have never had an issue with volume with my hair. I have thick hair and a lot of it. But maybe because of aging, or colouring my hair for over two decades, I have noticed more hair in the shower drain ( I know- gross!). I also sometimes noticed my hair seemed flat and a little lifeless. So I decided to give the John Frieda Luxurious Volume Shampoo and Conditioner a try. Hey it was free so why not?

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

My Style: I Love Toronto!

1 Love T.O. T-shirt Styled

Family, friends, art, nail polish, my butterfly pair of strappy heels, my brand new adopted kitten, and a good bottle of wine are just a few of my favourite things in my life. But one of my true loves is the fabulous city of Toronto! I love how there is so much to see and do: the world class art and culture exhibits and events, the beautiful public spaces, the cool and chic shopping destinations, and the amazing people I meet everyday.

My Style: 1 Love T.O. T-shirt, Altuzarra for Target Tuxedo Pants, Jessica Shoes, Shop For Jayu Necklace, fashion, styletips, toronto, canadian, ontario, canada, love toronto, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, outfit, ootd, heart

That's why when I saw this cool and fun T-shirt made by local company 1 Love T.O., I knew I had to have it! This t-shirt reminds me of the iconic I Love N.Y. t-shirt but with a Canadian twist. I love that the heart is blue (Toronto's colour) and a 1 instead of an 'I'. The reason for the 1 is because "Toronto is different. Toronto is one. And we are all the heart of this magnificent city."

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Exhibit: Fashion Blows!

Isabella Blow Fashion Exhibition Review

After watching the gruesome and hilarious annual Zombie Walk in Toronto on Queen Street West, I wanted to look at prettier things and decided to visit the amazing Fashion Blows exhibit at Hudson's Bay on Queen Street West.

Fashion Blows Exhibit at Hudson's Bay in Toronto, Isabella, Daupne Guinness, Style, Culture, foundation, aleander mcqueen, philip treacy, suicide,the purple scarf, melanie.ps, ontario, canada

Fashion Blows is a curated exhibition displaying some of the unique fashion collection of the iconic UK style editor Isabella Blow. Her eccentric fashion sense was over-the-top and amazing and her flair for dramatic hats was legendary.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Style Trend: Hold on Tights!

Fashion Obsession & Trend Alert: Tights

Tights have become an essential garment in any woman's wardrobe. And now that the colder weather is here, it's the perfect fashion piece to add under most dresses and skirts, look fabulous, and still stay warm.

Fashion Obsession + Trend Alert: Layering tights, legwear, pattern, fashion, style, styletips, shopping, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada

I love adding leggings and tights to different outfits. They are a great way to add a little flair and have some fun with your outfit. I like to also change up the look of patterned sheer tights, by layering a pair of bright coloured tights under the patterned one.  

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Exhibit: Rooftops & Vertigo!

Tom Ryaboi Photo Exhibit Review

Over the weekend I dragged myself to the Canary District Presentation Gallery, located on Front Street, near the Distillery District in Toronto. I wasn't there to buy a condo but to view the small but extraordinary photo exhibit, Cities of the Future, on display by Toronto based photographer Tom Ryaboi.

Cities of the Future: Photography Exhibit by Tom Ryaboi at the Canary District Presentation Centre in Toronto, roof topper, art, artmatters, culture, exhibition,photo, city, skyscrappers, roof topping,the purple scarf, melanieps, ontario, canada

Known as "Roof Topper", Tom Ryaboi scales skyscrapers to literally sit on the edge of them to capture some amazing cityscape images. I got to see an entirely different and breath taking view of the city.

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Exhibit: The Disturbing & Beautiful World We Live In!

World Press Photo Contest Exhibition Review

Last week I visited the Allan Lambert Galleria in Brookfield Place downtown Toronto to view the World Press Photo 2014 Exhibition. This exhibit consists of award winning photographs in various categories submitted by some of the best photo journalists from across the globe.

World Press Photo Contest Exhibit in Toronto,  of the Year by John Stanmeyer, USA, Photography, Art, Artmatters, culture, global, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps, brookfield place, allan lambert galleria
World Press Photo of The Year 2013 by John Stanmeyer, USA, VII for National Geographic: Afican migrants on the shore of Djibouti City at night raise their phones in an attempt to catch an inexpensive signal from neighbouring Somalia
World Press Photo contest is an exhibit that travels to 45 different countries within a year and is only here in Toronto until Tuesday October 21, 2014. Some of the photos are hard to look at and brought tears to my eyes. Some are amazing and beautiful, but all the images need to be seen. Warning: Some of the following images may not be suitable for some.

Saturday, October 18, 2014

Skincare Review: Smooth Like Butter!

Moroccanoil Body Butter Review

Several months ago, I won a giveway and the prizes were three different Moroccanoil body skincare products. I was supper excited to try all three of these products, since I heard such good things about them and I regularly suffer from dry skin.

Smooth Like Butter!: Moroccanoil Body Butter, beauty, skincare, review, lotion, dry, skin, relief, toronto, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps

The first Moroccanoil product I tried was the Body Butter. Right away I noticed was how much was in the tub. I have been using this product for a few months and I have only used about half. Which is good since the retail price is around $52.00. The Body Butter is quite thick and a little really does go a long way.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

My Style!: Chic Fashion Classics!

Two Altuzarra For Target Fashion Staples Styled

A few weeks ago I woke up early on a Sunday morning to get my hands on a few of the coveted pieces from Target's newest designer collaboration collection, Altuzarra for Target!

Chic Fall Fashion Classic: Satin Oxford Shirt, Altuzarra For Target Designer Collaboration Collection, Smart Set Jeans, Forever 21 Booties, Vntage Clutch, Style, Styletips, Outfit, Orchid, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps, Shopping, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

My last Style Post featured two Altuzarra for Target dresses I was lucky to purchase and have fun styling. I'm looking forward to wearing them out more this upcoming holiday season. As well as the dresses, I was also fortunate to purchase the Satin Oxford Shirt and the Trench Coat, two pieces that I really wanted.

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Exhibit: The Changing Landscape of Contemporary Art at MOCCA!

Two Art &Culture Exhibitions Review

Over Thanksgiving weekend I decide to visit the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art and enjoy two of the Museum's latest exhibits TBD and BMO 1st Art!

TBD Exhibit at MOCCA: How Much Art Can You Take?, 2014 by Jesse Harris, Culture, Artmatters, Contemporary, Museum, Exhibition, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps
How Much Art Can You Take?, 2014 by Jesse Harris
MOCCA will be closing its doors next year when its lease expires on its current location on Queen Street West. What's next for MOCCA is TBD, or "To Be Determined", and the institution is faced with moving and starting over again and redefining itself.

Monday, October 13, 2014

Event: White Night, Big City!

Toronto Nuit Blanche Culture & Art Event Recap

Last Saturday night was one of my favourite Toronto events: Nuit Blanche. And even though I was battling a bad cold and completely exhausted from working overtime at my job, I bundled up and went out to enjoy a night of free art.

Toronto Nuit Blanche 2014: Safe Space, Drake Hotel, Culture, Art, Artmatters, Installation, Performance, The Purple Scarf, Video, Melanie.Ps, Ontario, Canada
Safe Space, Drake Hotel
Since 2006, Nuit Blanche is a magical night when the city of Toronto is transformed into a giant museum. I have been going to Nuit Blanche since the second year it started here in Toronto and have seen it change and evolve into the huge event it is now.

Sunday, October 05, 2014

Makeup: Jet Set Into Fall with Revlon! + Giveaway!

Shake it Up in Shanghai Beauty Look Tutorial

I love to travel and have been to some amazing cities in the world. Although I haven't left Canada in a while, I can at least look like I have with Revlon's new beauty looks inspired from five of the most fashionable cities in the world.

Jet Set With Revlon: Shake it Up in Shanghai: ColorStay Shadowlinks in Moss and Khaki, Sizzle Moisture Stain, Jade Eyeliner, Blackest Black Bold Lacquer Mascara, Checkmate, Blackjack, and Diamond Top Coat Gel Envy Nailpolish, Beauty, Makeup, Tutorial, Review, The Purple Scarf, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Revlon has provided a 'passport' containing step by-step instructions on how to achieve these fabulous and simple looks: Pucker up in Paris, Be a New York Knockout, Be a London Lady, Strike a pose in Stockholm, and the look I tried out; Shake it up in Shanghai. I'm by no means an expert at applying makeup, so I love when companies like Revlon provide easy to follow steps to create simple yet dramatic looks.

Wednesday, October 01, 2014

My Style: Dress Up!

Two Altuzarra for Target Dresses Styled

Two weeks ago I was lined up bleary eyed and tired, coffee in hand, with several other women at my local Target store to get my hands on Target's newest Designer collaboration Altuzarra for Target.

Altuzarra for Target Purple Satin Dress and Wedge Booties from Hudson's Bay, fashion, style, styletips, the purple scarf, melanieps, designer, etsy, locket, outfit, ootd, toronto,ontario,canada

I was lucky enough to get 4 pieces in my size, two of which are these fabulous dresses. Both are so different from each other but I love them both.

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Exhibit: Celebrating One of the Coolest Places in the World!

Art & Cultural Exhibition at the Gladstone Hotel

Vouge Magazine recently proclaimed West Queen West in Toronto as the Second Coolest Neighbourhood in the World. And one their reasons is the Gladstone Hotel. Come find out how the Gladstone has become such a cool and hip place in one of its newest exhibits, 125/THEN/ NOW/NEXT, a fabulous celebration of the rich cultural and architectural history of Toronto's oldest continually operating hotel.

125/THEN/NOW/NEXT Exhibit at the Gladstone Hotel on West Queen West in Toronto, Art, Culture, Exhibition, Artmatters, History,Architecture, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, Melanieps, Photography, Vouge Magazine, Nuit Blanchee

125/THEN/NOW/NEXT is a three stage exhibition celebrating the 125th birthday of the historic (and one of my favourite places) Gladstone Hotel. The THEN portion consists of cool historical photographs and interesting artifacts sharing stories and chronicling the diverse past of the Gladstone Hotel.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Shopping: Toronto is Obessed with Danish Design!

Danish Specialty Popup Shop At Hudson's Bay Preview

The Hudson's Bay recently launched a Danish Design popup shop at their downtown Toronto location on Queen Street. Featuring designers from smaller and well established brands like Designers Remix to well known brands like Vero Moda and Pandora, the Danish Design popup shops spans 3 different levels of the flagship store is selling a variety of Danish mens and womens fashions, home accessories, food, and knick knacks.

Danish Design Popup Shop at Hudson's Bay store downtown Toronto, shopping, fashion, home, the purple scarf, ontario, canada, denmark, princess, prince

The main level features a few home fashions, a small assortment of Danish snacks, and some adorable figurines. On the third level, mens and ladies fashions and accessories can be found down the main aisle by TOPSHOP. Vero Moda is regularly stocked at most Hudson's Bay stores and can be located in their own section in ladieswear. On the seventh level, there are more Danish foods as well as a beautifully small home accessories and decor shop set up right in front of the elevator. 

Monday, September 22, 2014

Exhibit: A Bold Celebration of Anishinaabe Artists!

AGO Aboriginal Art Exhibition Review

An exhibition displaying various artworks by Aboriginal Artists from The Great Lakes region opened several weeks ago at The Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto. The exhibit, Before and after the Horizon: Anishinaabe Artists of The Great Lakes, is a wondrous and bold exhibit that looks to change how Canadian art history is presented.

Before and after the Horizon: Anishinaabe Artists of The Great Lakes Exhibition at The Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, Culture, Native, Aboriginal, History, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps, Aatisokaanag, spirits, Andrea Carlson
Aatisokaanag (Spirits), 2005 by Andrea Carlson
From bright tapestries and paintings to 8,000 year old arrow heads, this exhibit tells the story of a great people through the good and the bad.

Thursday, September 18, 2014

My Style: Fall Fashion Chic!

Fall Fashion Outfit from H&M, Winners, & Marshalls

Now that the weather is cooling, fall fashion is in full force! Soft knit sweaters and Fall colours like deep burgundy, warm mustard yellows, golds and coppers, have been showing up in the latest fall fashions in most retail stores That's why when I saw these copper coloured pants at H&M for less than $15, I had to try them on!

Fall Fashion Chic!: H&M Pants, Knit Top from Winners, Rampage Shoes Marshalls, Vintage purse and necklace, Shop For Jayu Necklace, Mizdragonfly Wonder Woman Cuff, Style, styletips, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto, ontario, canada, fabfound

I usually get a little sad when the fall season arrives, it means winter is on it's way, and I detest winter weather. But the chance to style and wear fall fashion is the one of the only things that keeps me going. It's not quite cold yet, but it's cool enough to wear pants, and these thin copper yellow pants are perfect. They fit snugly, are comfortable, and were only $14.99! 

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Exhibit: Welcome to Colville!

AGO's Alex Colville Art Exhibition Review

Before my sister's wedding took over my life for the past two weeks, I visited the Art Gallery of Ontario to explore their newest exhibit Alex Colville. I have to admit my knowledge of Colville's work was very limited, I knew his famous Horse and Train (1953) painting was featured in Stanley Kubrick's film The Shining, so I figured I would like this exhibition, but after visiting, I'm in love with Colville!

Alex Colville Exhibit at Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, Bodies in a Grave, Belsen, 1946, paintings, art, artmatters, culture,ontario, Canadian Artist, Painter, Canada, concentration camp
Bodies in a Grave, Belsen, 1946
With more than 100 works by the famous Canadian artist, Alex Colville is the largest exhibition showcasing his work to date. Consisting of several galleries, with the first giving a brief introduction of Alex Colville (did you know he designed the 1967 Royal Canadian Mint coin series to celebrate Canada's 100th birthday?) and then the exhibit quickly delves into his work as an official World War II artist. Paintings of  soldiers and the horrors at Bergen-Belsen concentration camp were unnerving, and I can see why many of his later works took on a dark and menacing tone.