Pink and Pretty among the Cherry Blossom trees

My Ottawa photographer friend Debra Cowie is working on building stock photography to sell on her website, and was looking for a model.

The current theme she is working on is “PINK” and if you’re in Ottawa in May, there is no shortage of pink in the city! We got together at the Lincoln fields OC Transpo bus terminal on Carling and snapped these whimsical photos! We even managed  to squeeze one of Victor and I. It’s so sweet.

The cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, but won’t hold up for long. You may only have a few days left before the petals come down. But, can you image how a bed of petals would photograph? We will have to go back!

Outfit
In these photos, I am wearing a simple white v-neck and my famous pink tutu from Simons.

Makeup
My lipstick is “Talking Points” lip liner from MAC
My eye liner is Stila Stay-All-Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner Black 0.5ml

Chantal 4 Ottawa Fashion Blogger Curvy Plus-Size photos lincoln fields cherry blossom pink treesChantal 2 Ottawa Fashion Blog Curvy Plus-Size photos lincoln fields cherry blossom pink trees Chantal 7 Ottawa Fashion Blog Curvy Plus-Size photos lincoln fields cherry blossom pink treesChantal 5 Ottawa Fashion Blog Curvy Plus-Size photos lincoln fields cherry blossom pink treesChantal 8 Ottawa Fashion Blog Curvy Plus-Size photos lincoln fields cherry blossom pink trees Chantal 6 Ottawa Fashion Blog Curvy Plus-Size photos lincoln fields cherry blossom pink trees

Continue Reading

Bailey Nelson: Ottawa welcomes new eyewear and sunglasses store in Westboro

I was walking in Westboro on Victoria Day, and noticed a new shop, and it was the only one open on the strip. Of course, being the curious person that I am, I walked in and started chatting with one of the employees. It’s an Australian brand that has recently launched in Canada called Bailey Nelson and is a prescription eye wear and sunglasses shop made in Canada. Every pair is slowly crafted and assembled in Canada, using the best quality products sourced from countries like Australia and Japan.Bailey Nelson Westboro store Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode Xlusive Chantsy

It turns out this is the company’s sixth store, and they opened it right in the heart of Ottawa’s boutique shopping district! I love it! The store itself is simplistic, with clean lines and natural accents. The company has an eco-friendly eye and a soft spot for maximizing sustainable materials.Bailey Nelson Westboro store Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode Xlusive Chantsy Blogger

The premise of this business is that all frames are $145 (taxes in!), whether it’s prescription or sunglasses. The sunnies are made with high quality lenses and they are all polarized, which means they are actually good for your eyes (bonus! fashionable and functional).Bailey Nelson Westboro store Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode Xlusive

There are loads of gorgeous styles to choose: from feminine flirty to geek chic, with most options being unisex. I am told that the glasses are made in small batches, so the really popular styles will naturally become collector’s edition. At that price, you can afford to start your own collection and BUY THEM ALL!! hahaha

If you’re in the area, I highly suggest popping in to say hello! The staff are super friendly and the shopping experience will not disappoint!Bailey Nelson Westboro store Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode Xlusive Chantsy Style Blogger

Get out of your comfort zone, and start exploring the new shops that are popping up in Ottawa!

Continue Reading

Getting racy: The plus-size black lace bralette of your dreams

Look no further, I found the perfect black lace bralette that will actually hold your girls in and cover your cleavage! Unless of course that is not what you are looking to do.

I was searching high and low for a bralette that I could wear under tops that have a deep neckline or my romper that crosses over the chest. You and I both know that the cross top never has enough coverage and I don’t want my girls peaking through the sides.

This black lace bralette is from Addition Elle, and the just restocked it! So I urge you to buy it right away! I regretted not buying it last month, when I featured it on my CTV segment about Addition Elle bras.

So, to thank my readers for sticking around, I decided to post a pic of me in the bra! It’s so delicate and pretty that I want to wear it out in public, just like that!Plus Size bra lace bralette Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode XLusive Chantal Sarkisian blogger

This bra is size X at Addition Elle, which fits like a Large/XL in other stores and is only $40. I am also told the lingerie line at Addition Elle fits one size smaller than normal. In the last picture, you can see how the delicate lace in the back is thick enough to actually cover your back and not get wedged under the rolls! hahaha

Why are you still reading? GO BUY THE BRALETTE!
Plus Size bra lace bralette Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode XLusive Chantsy in a bra

Continue Reading

Tiaras and other fun accessories to try this Summer

How do you feel about accessorizing? If I had to chose, Spring and Summer would be my favourite seasons to go bold with accessories. Maybe it is because our legs are bare, our arms go sleeveless, or its time to dust off those backless dresses and off the shoulder tops. Now, what to do with all this freshly exposed skin? I know, pile some bracelets and layer them necklaces!

This season’s accessories are a feast for the eyes and include bold, corky and utterly dreamy pieces. It got me thinking that at some point this summer, we should all attempt to try at least one of these looks. There are many accessories you can choose from and the following are some of my favourites!

1

Image credit: Theblondesalad.com

The tiara

You may have spotted one of the biggest fashion bloggers, Chiara Ferragni, wearing a tiara during Coachella this year. While tiaras are typically worn by real princess, donning a tiara for your next night out may be the daring piece you have been looking for all season. Remember balance and try not to go too girly with this look. Pair your tiara with chunky Doc martins and maybe some dark eyeliner to bring an edgier feel to this look.
2

Statement necklaces

Pull another Chiara Ferragni, or follow along with other fashionistas like Kendall Jenner, who were wearing bold jewels at Coachella. These statement necklaces bring a level of drama to an outfit like no other. Find the statement necklace that suits your style (and frame!) and be sure to wear it for any occasion. The bonus is that you can easily take this look from the cubicle to the cocktail lounge.

Layered Necklaces

If large, chunky necklaces are not your thing, then try layering delicate necklaces for a softer more bohemian look. Layer them over a simple white shirt or draw some attention to your shoulders. Delicate necklaces are the perfect subtle accessories for gals with simple style.

3Image credit: Asos.com

Capes
Cozy and dark colored capes belong in your winter wardrobe. But don’t forget colour and bold prints this summer and accessorize with flowy capes, even on the warmest days. Find a delicate piece — one that is made of lace or sheer and draped with pearls or crystals and turn a simple dress into an elegant look to wear for those special occasions. A shear layer can also help you hide from the sun and protect your skin.

 

Hair bands
The 80s and its cacophony of colors clearly transpires in the hair band accessory pieces found this season. From pompom hair bands to floral numbers, it seems like this spring your hair needs as much attention as the rest of your outfit. And yes, the scrunchy is back with a vengeance!

Stacked rings
Rings seem to have made a glorious comeback these past few years and this season be sure to pile those thin bands together and don rings on all of your fingers, even on your pinky!

4

Image credit: Fashiongum.com

Scarves
A hot new trend, and oh-so Parisian look this summer is the scarf! Neatly tied around the neck with a simple white shirt or paired with a midi dress can go a long way. Skip the necklace and opt for the scarf, which can be perfect to wear to the office and beyond and channel a look that will never go out of style.

So, have I inspired you to try any accessories this season? Are there other accessories you want to try working into your style this year? Share your thoughts below!

Continue Reading