Event: H&M Conscious Closet

Last night, I attended my first ever blogging event. Officially, I’ve been blogging for the last seven years, but my recent efforts really seem to be paying off. It all seems surreal.

Starting a plus size fashion blog is exciting but at the same time, it puts me in a vulnerable position. I’ve always been open about my personal life, and share everything on social media, but this is different. Especially when I most recently shared my weight loss journey on this blog. My role has now transformed from plus size fashionista to a motivational and self-acceptance coach. Not a bad gig at all! 

Now back to last night. Absolutely everything was gorgeous, the beautiful flowers, the delicious food and the company of course! I had the opportunity to meet new blogger friends, that I naturally connected with right away. We just have so much in common. Get your glam on, take pictures, post on social media… Check!

H&M Canada and Bayshore Shopping Centre teamed up to host a series of events that would promote H&M’s latest eco-fashion collections “Conscious” and “Conscious Exclusive”. Check out the Bayshore website, to participate in all their initiatives and contests. Make sure you use #HMConsciousCloset!

I’m a visual person, so I decided to share all my iPhone pics to show you a glimpse of what the event was all about.

    

The most incredible feeling to see your name and blog out there in the real world. Inside the box is a special gift that was picked out just for me from H&M Canada, by Emily Scarlett.
  
Alyssa Beltempo and Caroline Lacasse, Ottawa’s trendsetters
      
The elegant Emily Scarrlett from H&M Canada. My favorite part of the night is when Emily talked about all the different ways H&M recycles and reuses the clothes they collect from these initiatives.
  
What blogger events should look like
  
What blogger events actually look like
   
The table was gorgeous even with the mess we left behind after dinner.
 
5 course meal catered by Thyme and Again
 
I met some really great people last night and I look forward to connecting with them online!  

(You know who you are) xox Chantsy

Spoiler Alert- this is the gorgeous dress that I got in my secret gift. They were on point, since I already bought it! Looks like I get to swap it for another beautiful piece!
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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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Proutfit: Holiday Cuir

There is nothing more comfy than wearing tights, let’s all agree. But what I have noticed on my body type is that when I dress down, I look way dressed down, like a bum. Same goes for when I wear a dress, I look and feel really dressed up.

My friends, I think I may have found a middle ground… pleather tights! They have a nice way of upping the glam ante while keeping it casual and cozy. Warning- they can expose more nooks and crannies than your heart desires. Sometimes I feel like it amplifies the look of cellulite. As a member of the XLusive club, I make sure that my bottom and V are always covered by a long shirt or sweater. It’s just common courtesy folks!

Here is a quick shot of today’s proutfit! Pleather tights from the Bay (last year), black Franco Sarto pumps (old) and a cozy knit sweater from H&M (last year). There is nothing new about this outfit, it was just something I pulled together this morning.

Mode XLusive Chantal Sarkisian Plus Size Fashion OttawaNow, if all goes according to my calculations, I should be expecting this gorgeous long Gold fill Wishbone Necklace from Katye Landry Designs. It would look killer with this outfit! Katye is a local Ottawa designer. You must check out her fabulous work! Oh ya… #supportlocal.

Large+Gold+wishbone+necklace Katye Landry Designs
Katye Landry Designs Gold fill Wishbone Necklace

Have fun in the next few days and make sure to take advantage of the holidays! Rest. Laugh. Eat. Love.

Merry Christmas!

xox Chantsy

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