Notepad

Showing the single result

No comments

  1. This is the look I struggle with. There are so many great outfits with stripes right now. I started with a shirt… I think it’s OK. You are more brave than me with the overall striped dress! My question always is whats better with our body types ( I’m like you) wide , narrow, Wide and narrow, ARgH what to do? I like this narrow stripe on you 😉

    1. Liz- according to my calculation, that’s an hourglass figure! The best shape to have!
      I am totally wearing a solid bra, control underwear and wearing the belt to help accentuate my waste.
      Just try it first with a sweater and see how it goes. Not every outfit is a hit. Thanks for the comment and the love! Chantsy

  2. I think you nailed it when you said if you feel good in something you should wear it! I’m plus size as well and love stripes too!

  3. Love the lipstick , Stunning look!
    Wish I was I was in town for this event. I’ll make up for it shopping now!

  4. Absolutely love this outfit! That store is my favourite too! I was scared to try a jumpsuit but this looks amazing and you’ve convinced me I have to try one on. Love this on you so stylish!

  5. We LOVE your profile – and thank you SO much for the shout-out!
    Perhaps you put your weight in as kilos instead of pounds by mistake which explains why you’re having a hard time finding relevant body doubles? 🙂
    Can’t wait to see more great outfit photos from you – and again: thank you for joining!
    Best,
    Naja

  6. I have no issue with Lena, her body, or this picture. I think she looks great!

    Plus, she’s smart, hilarious and kind – all qualities that are far more important than her body shape or size. 🙂

  7. I see absolutely nothing wrong with this photo, it’s actually quite beautiful. Her confidence is oozing from her and you can tell by how she’s standing, how she’s looking at the camera, she is soooo comfortable with herself and I love it. She’s a beautiful person, inside and out, amazingly hilarious and uber successful. THIS is what people should strive to be like.

  8. why would anyone ‘have issues’ with this photo?? I certainly see no reason for this to bother anyone.

  9. YES.

    Although I work out regularly and eat fairly clean, I love treats and I have a hard time saying no (especially this time of year, it seems, with patio season, beer and burgers!). Although I should be happy with my weight and body, I can’t help but frown on the areas I’m less than happy with. Some days I feel great and other days I don’t understand why I’m not getting leaner, faster. The struggle is real!

  10. It is a daily struggle 🙁 I’ve been holding my own for 1 year. I started working out , that’s new , but the weight still wants to stay right where it is. I initially lost 30 lbs. in 2009 all good, I have kept it off , give and take 5 lbs either way. I wanted to lose another 20 lbs. last year ,so I started the workouts, eating clean , somewhat , let’s be real! Anyway, I lost the 10 in about 6 mo. But do you think I can loose another 10? No way it is hanging on. let me in on your secrets, please!

  11. Hi Chantal!

    I don’t know you personally but I stumbled across your blog and I’m also living in Ottawa and have some clothes to sell/trade/share. I’ve heard of other cities doing a plus size swap (because us curvier beauties deserve to score and trade lovely pieces too!) — what would you think if one was organized for Ottawa? I’m definitely interested in seeing what you have 🙂

    Cheers!

  12. Dear Chantal: I hate the words “PLUS SIZE”. If a young woman is slender and small, she is considered ‘petite’, if a woman had a bit more flesh and big breasts, she is often called ‘curvy’ or ‘voluptuous’. But if a woman is hanging on to a bit more flesh than she people think she should, she is called a “PLUS SIZE”?!?!?! Geesh, can’t we come up with a couple of better adjectives like “More Than a Woman to Me” or “Size? A Whole Lot of Love?”….let’s have a contest!

      1. But a chick in your position, a veritable fashion BLOGANISTA, is in THE perfect position to start effecting change! C’mon! Live a little…run a contest! Get the gals (and guys!) out there buzzing with new words!!

  13. I would love the opportunity to work with you to grow our instagram for my wedding stationery business, Ivy Stripe! Instagram.com/ivy_stripe

  14. Hi Chantal, I would love to learn how to increase my followers on instagram and facebook for my home based spa business. I provide services like facial, pedicure, biosculpture gel application and RMT massage services….
    My Instagram pureheavenspa

  15. Two sisters living worlds apart come together offering a beautiful collection of olive wood products. Learn who we are through our blog posts; where we have travelled and our olive wood design work. We are just starting this exciting venture.. Glance through my photography lense and see a creative view on things while my sis will educate and entertain you with her story telling skills. We would appreciate some guidance on Instagram. I feel there are so many social media options, perhaps picking one or two and getting really good at them is key. http://www.mirelou.com http://www.forgottentwigs.com

  16. what a beautiful purse! was just at goodwill over the weekend and almost bought a white dooney and bourke very similar purse, but they wanted $30 and I had already spent $60 haha…… I said, I’ll wait for a tag day!

  17. Chantal, my 13 yr old son was invited to attend WE Day in Kitchener last year and it was definitely a life changing experience for him. I had hoped and dreamed for many years that one day he would be invited to attend as he is such a compassionate, caring and smart young man. These kids will indeed be the change our world needs….and they already are!

      1. Cool – check out the one Katie told us about that she did with CBC. You can download the podcast and I think Katie posted it to #blogott. She’s so cute! I ordered her book too. LOL! #obsessed

  18. You’re so awesome! I don’t believe I have read
    through a single thing liike that before. So great to discover someone
    with some unique thoughts on this issue. Seriously.. thank you
    for starting this up. This sitge is one thing that iis required
    on the internet, someone with a little originality!

  19. Very insightful! For me, I wish fashion publications would venture past advertorial and serve folks who don’t have the $ to buy new stuff all the time but to educate on how to use what you already have, or how to select those timeless investment pieces that never go out of style – even on a budget. A lot of what’s out there on the internet fails to recognize the basic privilege of being able to purchase new each season. Focusing on timeless over trends gives the opportunity for fashion to be accessible.

  20. Great article! I think it is especially important as we age to remember this as some trends are just not suitable (think crazy shorts skirts or shorty shorts!). I like the idea of adding a few trendy items into a style that suits us, our lifestyle, and our bodies!

  21. Hi Chantal, I love! love! love! your blog and being in the same city as me, is fantastic! I have been following you now for a little while and I just wanted to say thank you! I have nominated you for the WordPress family Award for all you have meant to me and other bloggers. If you don’t accept awards, I understand. I just wanted you to know that you have made a difference in my life :)Thank you!!!

    Oona
    https://oonaliz.wordpress.com/

  22. Just KCCO! Remind yourself that it did not take you only a short vacation to gain the weight, it took time. Now all you have to do is take it day by day and let the guilt go away!

  23. Stop beating yourself up. You are human, just like all of us. We screw up. You simply decide to stop screwing up and go back to what you know. You already have the answers – they are here: https://modexlusive.com/2015/04/01/5-tips-to-weight-loss/. Vacationing is not scary – it’s awesome and fun, and you need the break sometimes. A lot of us (me included) gained weight over the holidays. Yes, we have to un-do it. Just work the plan – be a little more strict than usual – and go crazy pants on drinking water. And don’t eat salad all day every day – keep your meals on-plan, but still fun, and add variety to help you stick to it. You are beautiful at every weight – you are a good person regardless of gaining or losing. You deserve to do nice things for yourself – which includes eating well, working out, and yeah – going on vacation and blowing that all off sometimes. Recognize that it’s a balance, and ups and downs sort of coming with being a human.

  24. Love this post Chantal!! I always wonder how people stay stylish in the cold because when I try it ends up looking like the second set of pictures and I’m completely freezing! And even some of the looks in the third set aren’t warm enough for the kind of cold we get here…or maybe thats just me, I’m always cold. I’m going to try and figure out an outfit that does both, but mostly I’ll just be in pjs and my blanket until spring.

  25. Thanks so much for sharing this post! I love how these pics depict winter fashion in such a fun and positive way. Now I want to go out and get some of these fab pieces!

  26. OMG!! So cute and it looks really easy! I’m in the process of growing out my hair but once it is long enough I will give this a try!

  27. Neat trick, will have to try, for when I shovel the snow.

    Chantal, nice smile, keep up the good work of blogging.

    Michele

  28. As a presenter you will want to wear something chic that won’t take away from the runway fashions but shows you are fashion forward. A solid color with an interesting cut/shape with some seriously sparkly jewlery would be my recommendation.

  29. Do you remember the blazer Emily Scarlett wore to the H&M Conscious event? It had these gorgeous cut outs in the sleeves and flowed almost like a cape. I can see you in that, maybe in a white colour, with a bright bottom option. It’s Alisa Angelina by the way 😉

  30. Wow! Chantal, amazing opportunity, koodoos to Ottawa U for choosing you, good choice.
    Who knows this could be the start of something bigger…NY, Milan ?
    Like Kasey mentioned you look amazing in that red dress, however i think you should approch one of the designers & ask to make something for you to complement the event. Or approach Richard Robinson, the clock is ticking however, it may be short notice. Solide color & bling for sure but would not recommend black, i personally think black is not original enough.
    Michele
    P.S. break a leg!

  31. Congratulations – what a fabulous opportunity!
    You have great gams so definitely rocking a skirt with some heels is a must! And am in agreement with some of the others – all black is not the way to go in this case. A gorgeous solid colour or black and white geographic print would be fun.

  32. You should wear something classy and elegant! And definitely from one of the local featured designers. Would love to attend! I haven’t had the chance before.

  33. Having grown up a HUGE Barbie fan, I just love how they’re diversifying Barbie. I’m a brunette and although I loved my Barbies, I was always disappointed that they were all blonde. I was excited when they started making brunette Barbies, then barbies of colour. Now, this is the cherry on top–Barbies with different shapes and sizes. 🙂

  34. Love the beanies with the pom poms! They are so much fun! What a fantastic lip color and that jacket was made for you!! Such a fun shot at the end!! xo

  35. So much YES to this post! I have had both positive and negative experiences with brands and social media interaction. Those brands that “get it” are amazing…and it shows. I get so disappointed when all I hear from a brand is “crickets”…nothing. Telus and DK Canada are two Canadian brands that immediately come to mind with thinking of excellent online engagement. Great post, Chantal!

  36. Hi there,
    So much to chose from! How do I narrow it down to one item! I think I would buy a classic white T with a new colourful scarf.?

  37. Am most looking forward to looking through all the coolest finds – a statement necklace, a cute clutch, a gorgeous shawl – I want it all! 🙂

  38. Tough choice but I do love that black jacket you are rocking with the white jeans and blush pink top – I love that whole look – a perfect stylish mommy on the go outfit!!

  39. Who can possibly decide?? I love the Wanderlust Blanket Scarf because of it’s versatility and the Easy Pocket Tunic, in Sapphire Blue of course! Thank you, Chantal!

  40. I would get a colourful blanket scarf. A great way to transform a simple outfit and amazing accessory for unpredictable spring weather

  41. Heya i’m for the first time here. I found this board and I find
    It truly useful & it helped me out much. I hope to give something back and help others
    like you helped me.

  42. Great post, Chantal! I love my homeland (England) and when I think “London Style”, Kate Moss, Savile Row and cool, Brit pop musicians like The Clash come to mind. Less kitsch, tons more “cool”. Great post! Love the header image!

  43. Oh hunny I’m so sorry you are going through all of this!!
    I understand how you feel in so many ways too. You are so brave to share. I have an idea, I’ll inbox you.

    xoxo

  44. My gran always said if yo were young enough to wear it the first round you are too old to do it the second round. Sadly for grandma (bless her soul) I really don’t care! Some of these are great. I for one am loving the return of the white jean and peasant blouses.

  45. Dirty Dancing is one of the best movies ever made. I think every woman can recite this movie from heart. I never thought to go back and look at the fashion. They do say that fashion goes through cycles. Everything comes back.

  46. You need that cold shoulder pink dress. Went on Sunday with the hubs and cleaned up in the Ted Baker section…as per usual. LOL!

  47. I have to agree with you, Chantal. You were lucky to sit at a table that was already dressed and be served dinner. I don’t think I like the idea of schlepping tables, chairs, dishes, etc. back and forth across town. God knows I’m already resentful at having to cook my own food! LOL!

    That being said, I’m attending Diner en Blanc Toronto, mainly because I’m sitting at a table that’s already dressed and being served food – HAHA!

    You looked beautiful…

  48. Do you mind if I quote a few of your articles as long as I provide credit and sources back to your weblog? My blog site is in the very same niche as yours and my visitors would genuinely benefit from some of the information you provide here. Please let me know if this ok with you. Thanks!

  49. I really love the Batiste dry shampoo’s as well and I love them but the same way. I want to try something new in case there is something better out there! I’ll have to look into some of your recommendations 🙂

  50. I love your choice, I debated getting those after I saw you with them but instead I went with the studded Mary Janes and wore them to work Thursday. Loved the. Ankle was almost better so I decided to give them a whirl. They are the best shoes ever.

  51. Darling I would love to see demonstrations regarding revamping/recycled clothing !!! Myself I tweak my fashions all the time …good for the environment , good the concious fashionista !!! Would love to attend this fab show HUGS

  52. I feel as though when people hear any words associated with the term ‘eco’ they believe it only pertains to a certain lifestyle; which is does but there are so many ways to be ecofriendly and fashion is simply another avenue. Ottawa has some incredibly talented and interesting dressers – being a ‘boring’ old government town only means that people want to add more flair to their regular business suit or dress – walk along Bank Street on a Sunday, or Rideau Street on a Tuesday afternoon and fashion personality is everywhere to be seen. I do like that maybe we are a city with a bit of a fashion secret.

  53. I would love to see a wide variety of ecofashion from babies to senior fashion! Also workshops on the Eco Fashion Business!

  54. I’m hoping the designs will be more colourful and unusual than mega-factory offerings. Seems to me mainstream clothes have become more basic and boring, and less long-lasting. This sets the stage for small-scale production to really shine.

  55. I am so happy that there is a place which motivates designers to work so hard on their ides. Putting such a fashion show together for sure must be a huge challenge for organizers. I am sure that we all will be inspired by what we see on 26th of October.

  56. This already sounds like an exciting event.It’s quite breathtaking to have a chance to see all these amazing ideas and visions from such talented local designers.I am sure they will not only captivate us but also inspired us and the best part is that it’s eco-friendly.

  57. Loving this palette! Already decided to buy one for myself and as a Christmas present for my sister – a MAC addict. Great news about the recycling program too – my husband will thank me for not keeping empties around the house.

  58. Aww Chantal! Thanks for the mention! I laughed out loud at the “Robby Bordens”. Lol!

    -Amira Pacific is indeed divine. Maybe Santa will bring you that handcream! ;o)

  59. These are awesome tips! Especially the non-tangible ones that I think are often overlooked like early adoption of sm channels and being nice – responding to posts etc. Great post!

  60. Chantal, I absolutely love your blog. I have so much respect for you for speaking up about something that some are embarrassed or criticized for talking openly about. I’m sure you just boosted tons of women’s confidence, and I applaud you for that!!! It’s so important to break the stigmas around ‘touchy’ subjects, when we can.

    So cool that these are from the same people behind Thinx! Been wanting to try those out for so long now. You may have just convinced me!

  61. OMG. I’ll TOTALLY do a calligraphy course with you! There is supposed to be a great one in Almonte…but “Almonte”. This was a great read! You accomplished so much…and keep reaching for those stars and get that second place as a rental unit!

    P.S. I had no idea about the upside down horseshoe being lucky!!

  62. Biotherm are my favorite face cream products, specially the Blue Therapy line. I love the mild scent of the creams and the result is an healthy look skin.

  63. Really good read, Chantsy. I pretty much hate affiliate links for the same reasons you’ve listed, but mainly that there aren’t enough Canadian businesses offered in these programs. As someone who singlehandedly keeps Aritzia in business, I would photograph a lot more of their stuff if Shopstyle and Rewardstyle supported them!

    “•Readers don’t feel like they should financially support the filthy rich blogger because she gets everything for free anyways (bitter much! Haha)” – hahahahaha!

    1. I moved to Ottawa from Toronto almost 15 years ago (man, that sounds way longer than I would like to admit!). I never really paid attention to winter gear… until I froze my butt off here! Winters are cold and SNOWY!!! My perspective on winter fashion has changed drastically… let just say I have invested A LOT in functional fashion. Thanks for stopping by! I’m sort of girl crushing.. hahaha XOX Chantsy

  64. Why have I never thought to wet the cotton pad before?! Genius idea!
    So glad you mentioned the bioderma micelle solution, that stuff can get the most stubborn mascara off in a flash.

  65. I still cannot believe you chopped up those boots. LOL! ;o)

    I’m so sorry I couldn’t stick around at VAM yesterday. I had to return my loaner to the dealership before it closed! You looked great and hope that 50 Shades was good!

  66. Great shots and sounds like a fantastic (and busy) time! SO GREAT to see you two yesterday!

    And cannot wait to try out Oretta. Heading there this week! LOL!

  67. the striped dress is my fav and a look I wear often. Really like most of these except number three, Its too gym like. I am not a fan of leggings as pants and this one is just a tad to “work out” for me. ( the model is beautiful though)

  68. You should try applying the night mask with the tool in the dark. It glows and it’s super cool to use it with the dark activated algae mask.

  69. You supplied pictures of women in the different fabrics but did not say which is which. Could you please tell me which fabric is each color?

  70. I just discovered this Petit Marseillais and I only have to use a little to get a good lather that’s not too heavy or sticky. And my skin was really soft and lightly scented. Great product!

  71. What I want to know is why I should care? I mean, not to say that what youve got to say isnt important, but I mean, its so generic. Everyones talking about this man. Give us something more, something that we can get behind so we can feel as passionately about it as you do.

  72. This is almost totally wrong. If it’s made of polyester, it’s velour — NOT velvet. Velvet is either silk, rayon, or a combination of both…but never nasty polyester. It also has a stiffer structure and thicker pile than velveteen or velour. And if velour “looks more expensive”, that’s because it’s a higher quality fabric. It’s actually pretty easy to tell the difference, but uninformed parties make it more confusing by labeling EVERYTHING “velvet” when the vast majority of it is not velvet in the slightest bit.

  73. Edit: I did notice you mentioned that velour is thicker, which is true in regards to the pile. What I forgot to add was that velour doesn’t drape nearly as well as velvet.