Going ‘green’ with envy for H&M’s new Conscious line

I fell in love with H&M the moment it came to Toronto, almost 10 years ago now. What a wonderful way to update my wardrobe with good quality items at a fair price. I must admit, I was sad when they dropped their size 16, making size 14 now even more difficult to find. Recently, they opened a few stores in Ottawa and expanded their line with plus size and maternity, which pretty much excuses them for those past mistakes.

The real reason I am writing today is to share some exciting new with you! To celebrate Earth Day (April 22, 2015) a wonderful collaboration has been sparked between Bayshore Shopping Centre and H&M’s new Conscious Exclusive Line. Drop off your unwanted clothing and get H&M swag for going green… not a bad deal! Make sure you visit the ONLY H&M store in Ottawa that is offering their Conscious Exclusive collection and by the famous words of Parks and Rec “Treat Yo Self”! There are some gorgeous dresses and skirts that are absolutely perfect for this year’s wedding season!

H&M Bayshore Ottawa Conscious ClosetThis is me in my new favourite H&M Conscious V-neck top. I love the colour and the fit. The sleeves and the V-neck are particularly flattering for us XLusive gals. This is a size Large, and as you can see, fits loose. I did this photo shoot for my bio and head shot for Ottawa Life Magazine. I am their new beauty insider! Petty cool,eh?

Loads of new things happening, so stick around!

Chantal Sarkisian H&M mode XLusive Ottawa Plus Size Fashion Blog
#HMConsciousCloset Vneck shirt
Chantal Sarkisian H&M mode XLusive Ottawa Plus Size Fashion Blog
#HMConsciousCloset Vneck shirt
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Proutfit: White denim, black blazer

As I mentioned in my last post, I had packed smart this time, at least I tried too.

My goal was to pack clothes that can be professional, comfortable, and fashionable.

This week Vancouver is warm and sunny, a comfortable  20° celsius. This time of year can get pretty cool when you’re in the shade, so layers are the best way to go.

 

I was very happy with the tones of this outfit. White Gap denim jeans, pale pink H&M top and black blazer from Cassis. I added a little pop of color with my orangey-red Michael Kors sandals. These are one of the most comfortable sandals I own, I have clocked a lot of miles in these bad boys.

I felt a bit silly doing my own photo shoot in the hotel room but I think this photo turned out pretty great! It’s all about the lighting.

Xox chantsy 

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Travel in style

I’m headed to Vancouver for a few days for some much needed R&R. I’m really looking forward to catching some street style pics of Vancouverites!

As usual, I checked in way too early, because I’m paranoid when I travel. I always give myself more than enough time. I’ll chalk it up to a great opportunity for a blog post!

When you travel, do you bring your best style forward? Are you a fashion chameleon tourist? Do you choose comfort over style? Personally, I’m a healthy mix of all three.

This is me, coffee in hand, patiently waiting to board the plane. I’m wearing my new favourite  wool scarf from “In the Ville” that I bought at the National Women’s Show. I’ve got my cozy green GAP flats, white GAP jeans, denim GAP shirt and black blazer from Casis (wow GAP overload!). 

In hand, I’m lugging my grey ‘alle’ Uashmama bag. It’s perfectly suited to use as a briefcase, fits my laptop and will double as my travel bag once I get to my destination. Shoulder strap here is key! Actually, as I write this post, I spot the same bag on another passenger! How cool is that!

Well, I’m off to see bigger and better things and hopefully come back revived, refreshed and inspired!

Have a great week!

Xox Chantal

PS- packing was a nightmare last night! I tried to plan outfits and just couldn’t hustle through it. 

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Ottawa Street Style: Denim and the BR dress

If you look at my closet, you’ll see that I don’t have a lot of colour. I am quite picky when it comes to colours, to be honest. But I had a soft spot for the bright orange pops of colour on this blue Banana Republic Dress. I had to have it! You can’t see it in this picture, but the back of the dress is open. The dress is split at the waist, so you can get a glimpse of the low back with a soft breeze. Very sexy.

I paired the dress with a classic denim jacket (Old Navy), cobalt blue pumps (Nine West) and a vintage snake skin clutch (AMH Style), and my idea of a pop of colour for makeup is my favourite lipstick “Morange” (from MAC).

I love the juxtaposition of the bright colours of the dress and graffiti along side the drab trees and tones in this alley (Old Ottawa South at Bank Street and Sunnyside Ave).

A big thank you to John Finnigan-lin for these gorgeous shots! xox
Chantal Sarkisian Ottawa Street Style plus size fashion blogChantal Sarkisian Ottawa Street Style plus size fashion blogChantal Sarkisian Ottawa Street Style plus size fashion blog

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