At StyleDemocracy, we know shopping! We deliver the scoop on all things retail related including how to get the best value at your fave stores. Hidden offerings, insider secrets, and the ultimate savings are what we live for!
Here are things every Value Village shopper needs to know.
1. Sign up for the Super Savers Club Card
Be sure to pick up a Super Savers Club Card the next time you’re leaving Value Village. You’ll get an initial 25 per cent off discount coupon after you register the card online, but you’ll also get information on special sale events, members-only coupons and birthday offers. By getting a club card, you’ll stay up to date on what’s happening at your local Value Village.
2. Donate!
When you donate items at Value Village, it translates into revenue for their 140 nonprofit partners across Canada, the U.S. and Australia. But of course, there’s something in it for you! When you donate your gently worn clothes, Value Village will give you a coupon for a specified dollar amount off your purchase of $10 or more. This way you can feel good about buying more clothes.
3. Give Yourself Enough Time
Value Village is not a quick, in-and-out experience. It takes time to dig through all the racks of clothing and then even more time trying the clothes on and then deciding what to buy. Allocate yourself a couple of hours to thrift through the store to ensure you find what you’re looking for. Grab your girlfriends and make an afternoon of it! They’ll also provide you with a second opinion on pieces you aren’t quite sure of.
4. Watch the Tags
The tags at Value Village are basically a secret sale code. The tags are colour coded to reflect when an item came in and each week a different coloured tag is on sale. Usually, it is announced over the loudspeaker what colour tag is on sale, but the employees are happy to tell you as well. So ask away and start doing some major savings!
5. The Dry Cleaner and Tailor are Your Friends
Regardless of which Value Village you go to, there’s a certain smell that is bound to hit you at some point during your shopping experience. But don’t be afraid, because it’s just the smell of clothes that need a good wash. They’ll be good as new after a round at the dry cleaners so don’t let the smell deter you. Sometimes you have to endure that smell in order to find that perfect piece you’ve been looking for. And befriend a tailor, too! If you find a piece you love but, let’s say, the shoulders are too big or the legs are too wide, take it to the tailor! Investing an extra $10 in something you’ll wear time and time again is always worth it.
6. Keep an Open Mind
When thrifting, you’re bound to find a few crazy items – it’s the nature of Value Village. But sometimes you find something that’s so crazy it just might work. It’s something you laugh at for being so out there but you feel guilty for not having the courage to pull it off yourself. Well put that item in your cart and give it a shot! Value Village is the place for taking risks; it’s a place where you can mix and match things you would have never thought possible. So keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to try on certain items.
7. Look for Problems
Now, don’t be a Negative Nancy or anything, but when it comes to thrift shopping it’s best to expect the worst. Say you find a gorgeous designer dress… but why did someone want to give away an article of clothing so seemingly perfect in the first place? Maybe there’s a huge stain on it. Or the zipper doesn’t work. Regardless, be sure to examine everything carefully. There’s nothing worse than getting a new item home and realizing it has an unfixable issue.
8. Shop Off-Season
Rather than heading to Value Village at the same time as everyone else, try shopping at non-peak times. Many off-season items are on sale during their opposite season, such as sandals in winter. They may not be marked on sale, but the prices are often lower than if you try to buy them during the season. You won’t get to wear them right away, but when the right season finally rolls around, you’ll be thankful you bought those sandals at half off when you did.
9. Know Good Value
Not every item you find at Value Village is going to be a home run. Yes, there are diamonds in the rough, but it’s a long journey through multiple racks of clothes to get to said diamonds. With practice, you should become familiar with what’s good quality and what is worth leaving behind. A polyester sweater isn’t going to hold up like a cashmere one. Pay attention, know quality when you see it.
10. Shop With a Goal in Mind
In need of more clothes for work? Shopping for staple items? Or just looking for a signature piece to add to your wardrobe? Whatever the reason, a great way to navigate Value Village is by shopping with a goal in mind. Don’t go in with your head in the clouds or you’ll be sure to get lost amongst the racks. When going in with a goal, you are more likely to find what you’re looking for.
11. Check Out A Couple Of Locations
If you’re planning on making a trip to Value Village, try and head over earlier in the day since a lot of the items get picked over by the evening. Plus, try and visit a couple of locations on your shopping adventure, to make it worthwhile. Sometimes you may not find what you’re looking for at just one spot. Enjoy more of a selection to browse through and score awesome deals.
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The reality of living in Toronto is that sometimes you aren’t going to make rent. The city is expensive and I myself was faced with that harsh truth recently.
Most 20-30 somethings residing in Toronto live paycheque to paycheque just to be able to enjoy some of the benefits the city has to offer – and I’m one of them. But I usually budget myself well enough that I don’t cringe with the passing of the first of each month. However, somewhere along the way I had spread myself too thin one month and realized I wasn’t going to make my rent. Not by much, but I was still going to come up short. So I needed to find a way to make some extra cash and fast.
That’s when I started selling my stuff online through Carousell. From old Kate Spade totes to Michael Kors bags, to Tiffany jewelry and designer shoes, I started selling my preloved clothing and accessories. And in just two short weeks, I was up $800 and a lot less stressed financially.
For those who don’t know, Carousell is a mobile classifieds app that makes selling your preloved goods easy. Carousell originally started in Singapore but has now spread to over 19 cities around the world, including Toronto. With over 57 million listings and counting, Carousell has quickly become one of the world’s largest and fastest growing marketplaces.
In today’s fashion industry, we are routinely pushed towards a culture of consumerism and “fast fashion.” We often buy things that we don’t need on impulse and very quickly find that there are clothes, jewelry, electronics and other items we no longer use or need. By buying pre-loved products, we engage in a more responsible and sustainable way of consumption. When we sell used items, we prolong the lifespan of said items while reducing waste and pollution.
Consider Carousell a mobile flea market. All you have to do it take a picture of what you wish to sell, post it, add a description and price-tag and then wait for offers. But while it all seems very simple to execute, there are tricks and strategies you can use to become a top seller. Here are a few tips I learned along the way to make $800 on Carousell in just two short weeks.
Know what the profitable items are
According to Carousell co-founder Marcus Tan, the most profitable items are fashion, beauty products and electronics. But the great thing about Carousell is that it caters to a wide variety of buyers with a variety of different interests. From die-hard Lego fans to comic book collectors to sneakerheads to purse addicts and more, there’s a good chance someone somewhere wants your used stuff.
Spend time taking good photos
The photos are the most important part of your Carousell ad. If the product doesn’t look good in the picture, I guarantee buyers aren’t going to make offers on it. If you take the time to make your photos aesthetically pleasing, buyers will take note of them while browsing and you’ll see your ads get more traffic.
Get creative with product names
Aesthetics aside, you can also make your post stand out with a clever name and description. Buyers are looking for information on whether or not to buy, so be cheeky and give them a reason to. Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes and think about what would make you want to buy your product.
Write exact details of your products
If you want to make as much money as you can as quickly as possible, it’s important to provide details on the items you’re selling. This includes product brand, item condition, defects, sizing and any other relevant information. In providing lots of detail, you’ll avoid having to answer multiple inquiries and see offers come in much faster.
Price your products well
Consider reviewing your prices if you aren’t getting any offers and remember to be reasonable. These are preloved goods so people aren’t going to pay retail value for them. It’s less about gaining a profit and more so about getting rid of the stuff you don’t need or use anymore. As long as I get the item out of my apartment and receive a decent price for it, I’m happy – and so is the buyer.
Be flexible with meet up times and places
If you can only meet up at one spot at one time on one day each week, you probably won’t have the best luck selling. Give buyers a few options for potential meet ups so you can find a time and place that works well for both parties. Chances are the buyer wants your item as badly as you want to sell it, so try within reason to be accommodating.
Take part in the Carousell campaigns
Carousell hosts a variety of campaigns each month including “Newest Items,” “Highest Rated Sellers,” “Fall Essentials” and “11.11” (items for $11 and under.) These campaigns usually see a huge surge in user activity so be sure to take part in them. During these periods, sellers have the opportunity to move many more items while buyers get to score some great deals.
What do you think about Carousell? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/@carousell.ca
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Millennials love wine. But drinking it is the easy part, talking about it, not so much. Sipping wine is very different from speaking wine.
Wine tasting requires a sophisticated language we often fake with rehearsed phrases like, “I’m in the mood for something full-bodied” or “this Chardonnay is too oaky for me.” Thankfully you don’t need years of sommelier experience to sound like a wine connoisseur. To help you talk like the ultimate wine educator, here are a few wine words and tasting terms every millennial should know.
Word: Sweet
Definition: Wine with a lower alcohol content has more residual sugar that is felt on the tip of the tongue, thus it is deemed as sweet tasting.
Used in a sentence: “Riesling is too sweet for me.”
Word: Fruity
Definition: A wine is fruity if it has a higher alcohol content and a sweetness to it that is not felt on the tip of the tongue.
Used in a sentence: “Just because I like fruity wines doesn’t mean I’ll drink Moscato.”
Word: Body
Definition: The body of a wine refers to how light or heavy it feels in one’s mouth.
Used in a sentence: “I’m not a fan of red wine, it’s too full-bodied for me.”
Word: Tannin
Definition: Easily mistaken as a flavour, tannin is actually a polyphenol produced during the winemaking process that causes a mouth-drying feeling on the palate.
Used in a sentence: “I can really feel the tannins of this Cab Sauv in my cheeks.”
Word: Acidity
Definition: Wine is acidic if it has a refreshing, mouth-puckering quality to it that is felt under the tongue and on the sides of the palate.
Used in a sentence: “I like my wine like a lemonade; with lots of acidity.”
Word: Minerality
Definition: A salty and briny quality of a wine.
Used in a sentence: “This wine has lots of minerality to it—It’s like licking a rock from the bottom of the ocean.”
Word: Vintage
Definition: The year a wine’s grapes were harvested.
Used in a sentence: “I’m so into that vineyard’s 2002 vintage merlot.”
Word: Oak
Definition: This is a buttery, toasty-vanilla quality from the flavour impartation of the oak barrel that the wine is aged in during the winemaking process.
Used in a sentence: “I can always taste the oaky quality in New Zealand wines.”
Word: Earthy
Definition: If a wine is earthy, that means that it is savoury and free of sweet fruit notes.
Used in a sentence: “I love reds from Chile and France. They’re much more earthy.”
Word: Finish
Definition: A wine’s finish refers to the sensations that take place in the mouth after swallowing. Wine typically leaves a residual taste that’s either sweet, tart, bitter, smoky or some combination of these.
Used in a sentence: “This wine has a very smoky finish with light hints of dry blackcurrant.”
Word: Complex
Definition: A wine is complex if it has multiple flavour sensations and finishes.
Used in a sentence: “I can really taste the layering in this pinot noir; it’s really quite complex.”
Word: Old World
Definition: Refers to wines originating from Europe that are usually lower in alcohol content and subtler in their flavour profiles.
Used in a sentence: “I like my wine refined, subtle, and versatile, like Old World Cabernets.”
Word: New World
Definition: Refers to wines that are from anywhere outside of Europe such as North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. These wines are usually higher in alcohol content and more fruit-forward.
Used in a sentence: “I’m more of a fruity drink kind of gal so I love New World wines.”
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Fashion in Toronto is as diverse as the city itself, boasting an ever-growing lineup of young, local designers who are making waves in the industry. These self-made local talents that line Toronto’s urban streets are budding, contemporary fashion designers with their own aesthetic, voice and fresh takes on everything from edgy accessories to hyper-feminine looks, menswear and more.
These designers know how to make it work and, at the end of the day, are the ones that stand out to consumers in a constantly expanding and oversaturated retail market. Different from major retailers, local shops give you the opportunity to actually run the chance of meeting the designer while shopping at his or her store.
Here are seven local Toronto designers you can actually meet right in their stores.
Vitaly
505 Queen St. W
Image: Instagram/@vitalydesign
As one of the most recognizable lifestyle brands in Toronto, everyone is wearing Vitaly. Inspired by machine-shop process, Vitaly’s designs are inspired from the industrial nature of the manufacturing process. Predominantly known for its unisex jewelry, Vitaly also recently released a line of denim and leather jackets. Founder and designer Shane Foran has been known to work from the Queen Street store, and depending on when you stop by, you may bump into him and get the chance to discuss the latest trends in streetwear with him.
Hayley Elsaesser
695 Queen St. W
Hayley Elsaesser (Image: Instagram/@HayleyElsaesser)
Hayley Elsaesser’s vibrant colours and eccentric prints have become a go-to celebrity style favourite. The Toronto-based designer started her line while she was finishing school in Brisbane, Australia and has since become more and more popular. The designer’s flagship store is located in the trendy Queen West area where you can find Elsaesser herself working away in her back office space.
Crywolf
91 Ossington Ave.
Image: Instagram/@crywolfclothing
Co-founded by long-time besties, Rose Chang and Stephanie Drabik, Crywolf is a clothing and accessories brand fueled by a DIY mentality. Crywolf’s main concept is to produce limited edition, collectable and affordable fashion designs all based on Chang and Drabik’s sketch work. There’s a good chance of running into Chang and Drabik at their Ossington shop, along with their adorable store pup.
Jennifer Torosian
260 Spadina Ave. #305
Raed Ali and Jennifer Torosian (Image: Instagram/@JenniferTorosian)
Created by Jennifer Torosian and Raed Ali, the Jennifer Torosian brand is known for its refined and fresh interpretations of contemporary wardrobe essentials. Based in the city, the Jennifer Torosian clothing line could be described as “luxury with ease” as its functional designs are met with modern sensibility. Stop by their store on Spadina and you might just run into Torosian or Ali.
18 Waits
990 Queen St. W
Daniel Torjman (Image: Instagram/18waits)
Menswear company 18 Waits is composed of a select team of designers and artisans under creative director and founder Daniel Torjman and if you are lucky enough, you might actually run into one of them at the flagship store. 18 Waits is a Toronto-based menswear company but it is more than just a clothing line, “It’s a way of life inspired by a joie de vivre and an appreciation of the finer things in life.”
Eleven Thirty Shop
1130 College St.
Image: Instagram/@eleventhirtyshop
Eleven Thirty is a storefront studio in the city founded by self-made designers and creatives Mariel Gonzalez and Alexa Schoorl. Since this duo works at the store/studio, you’re bound to run into one of them at some point. The brand produces bold, stylish leather handbags that have an uncommon beauty to them. All of Eleven Thirty’s goods are made to order in house while the brand works to eliminate waste production by using every possible part of the genuine leather cowhides.
Armed
1024 Dundas St. West
Desiree Girlato (Image: Instagram/@Toytose)
While strolling along Dundas West, a stop at Armed is a must, especially if you’re looking for some of the greatest jewelry and accessories in town. Desiree Girlato, the owner and designer, hand makes almost all of the jewelry you’ll find in store. And with her studio located directly behind the space, you’re more than likely to bump into re-merchandising the store or picking styles for an upcoming photoshoot.
Are there any other shops in Toronto where you can meet the designers? Share them in the comment section.
Featured Image: Daniel Torjman of 18 Waits via Instagram/@18waits
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Céline Dion, Meghan Markle and More Celebrities Who Are Wearing Canadian Brands Right Now
So often Canadian fashion design is seen as the underdog. To make it, you’re expected to leave, but that isn’t necessarily the case for everyone. Canada actually has some amazing talent, especially when it comes to its fashion.
From everyday wear to glamorous gowns, A-list celebrities are continually being spotted wearing Canadian designers. From Céline Dion to Meghan Markle and more, here are the stars who are wearing Canadian brands right now.
Meghan Markle in Nonie
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlYGJ0Mn0xW/?taken-by=enews
Recently the Duchess of Sussex wore a sleeveless blush trench coat by Calgary-based designer Nonie during her visit to the Nelson Mandela Exhibition in London. If people didn’t know who Nonie was before, having a royal wear the brand is a sure way to launch it into the mainstream.
Kylie Jenner in Aritzia
https://www.instagram.com/p/BihtdSQF-hS/?taken-by=kyliejenner
Tube tops are a major trend this summer that even stars are on board with. New mom Kylie Jenner snapped a picture in a white crop top from Aritzia to prove it.
Lupita Nyong’o in Aritzia
https://www.instagram.com/p/BiUvZnRD6M8/?taken-by=lupitanyongo
Clearly, Aritzia is a favourite with many. While in Nigeria, Lupita wore this pretty, floral print dress from the Vancouver-based brand. Most recently, The Beaches’ Kylie Miller was also seen sporting the dress during the band’s set at Osheaga.
Georgia May Jagger in Smythe
https://www.instagram.com/p/BiuwOBDgDJp/?taken-by=georgiamayjagger
Smythe is a go-to Canadian favourite among celebrities and Georgia May Jagger is no exception. The English-American model was spotted at the beach with her pups in a matching floral Smythe suit that has given us pleasant reminder that powersuits are still very in.
Céline Dion in Jenny Bird
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlVQPD_Ajee/?taken-by=celinedion
Quebec native Céline Dion was seen supporting a fellow Canadian when she showed off some chic Jenny Bird earrings in a behind-the-scenes picture from her live concert series. The singer and fashion icon is wearing the Jenny Bird “Icon Hoops” in gold.
Bella Hadid in Jenny Bird
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlRXK-dHUgM/?taken-by=_jennybird
Another fan of Canadian jewelry designer Jenny Bird is Bella Hadid. The model has been caught numerous times, from New York City to Paris Fashion Week, wearing the gold “Icon Hoops.”
Sandra Bullock in Tanya Taylor
https://www.instagram.com/p/BjLKvk-FgGP/?taken-by=tanyataylor
While out promoting Ocean’s 8 back in May, acting queen Sandra Bullock represented Canada in a pink floral wrap dress from celebrity fave Tanya Taylor.
Priyanka Chopra in Aritzia
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmEYTXCAN1R/?taken-by=aritzia
It seems celebrities can’t get enough of Ariztia. The newly engaged Priyanka Chopra was spotted out and about with her future hubby in an all-white ensemble featuring a sheer cropped shirt from Aritzia’s in-house brand Talula.
Samira Wiley in Greta Constantine
https://www.instagram.com/p/BghiUZ1DONm/?taken-by=gretaconstantine
Actor Samira Wiley wore a navy dress with sheer polka dot details by luxury fashion designer Greta Constantine to the 2018 PaleyFest screening of The Handmaid’s Tale earlier this spring.
Meghan Markle in Birks
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bhw6Cu3F67u/?taken-by=birks
It’s no secret that Meghan Markle loves Canadian designers and wears them every chance she gets. She regularly steps out in accessories from Montreal-based jewellery designer Birks. For two consecutive days, she wore the brand’s Diamond Swirl Earrings.
Featured image: Instagram/ @_jennybird
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Is there anyone who doesn’t love Netflix? The on-demand TV and movie service has brought us Netflix-original gems like Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Orange Is The New Black, it gave us the phrase “Netflix and chill” and it’s provided us endless options of things to binge watch.
At least 75 million people worldwide are Netflix subscribers, but are they really getting the most out of the service? There’s a wide variety of tips and tricks out there to make your Netflix experience even better. Here are some hacks only the Netflix-binging pros know and that will improve your binge experience dramatically. May you never leave your house again.
Request a show or movie
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Put in a Netflix request for shows and movie you want to see added to the streaming service. You can enter up to three titles at a time and, if Netflix ends up adding any of your requests, it will notify you via email.
Hide activity from your history
Whether it’s because you promised your partner that you wouldn’t watch the new season of Love without them (and did it anyways) or you just don’t want a rogue viewing to disturb your recommendations algorithm, there’s a way to hide activity from your watch history. Go to Netflix.com/WiViewingActivity to see a chronological list of every TV show episode or movie you’ve ever watched on your account. Click the “X” to the right of each title you’d like to remove from your history. It’s like it never ever happened!
Browse with search codes
You can find dozens of categories that won’t appear on your home screen by using specific search codes in the URL field. Just type in www.netflix.com/browse/genre/ and add the search code at the end of the link. The URL for Disney movies, for example, would be www.netflix.com/browse/genre/67673. You can get the full list of categories at whatsonnetflix.com.
Stop the buffering
Just because your WiFi connection is weak, doesn’t mean your buffering game should be. On Chrome, press Ctrl, Shift and Alt/Opt+S at the same time to open the secret “Stream Manager” menu. This gives you a selection of buffering fixes to choose from. You can also access this menu by pressing Shift and Opt (or Shift and Alt on a Windows PC) and left clicking.
Control your data usage
An hour of streaming Netflix in HD can use up to 3 GB of your data plan. At that rate, you can expect to have a pricey internet bill. Control your data usage by going to Your Account, My Profile, Playback Settings. There, you can choose from the Auto, Low (about 0.3 GB per hour), Medium (about 0.7 GB per hour) or High (3 GB per hour) data usage categories. This is especially useful if you’re streaming on your phone.
Customize subtitle font
If those yellow and white fonts cause you to go cross-eyed, there’s a hack for that. To adjust the font go to Your Account, My Profile, Subtitle Appearance. There you can customize subtitle appearances by changing the font type, color, size, shadow and background
Use multiple profiles for viewing moods
Having a profile for everyone sharing one Netflix subscription is great for keeping everyone’ s movie tastes separate. Each profile will have movie and TV suggestions based on its Recently Watched list along with any ratings given to programs. But you can also use multiple profiles for your viewing moods. Set up a “Back From the Bar” profile to indulge in silly comedies, or a “Girls Night” profile as an easy way to access the rom-coms you love but don’t necessarily want to influence your Netflix stats.
Refuse Netflix’s episode-binge enabling
Although spending an entire Sunday rewatching Friends is great, sometimes we don’t want to get sucked into a binge. You can disable this feature (called Post-Play) by heading to Your Account, Playback Settings and unchecking Play Next Episode Automatically.
Fast forward and rewind without a mouse or trackpad
If you’re watching Netflix on your desktop, you don’t have to move your hands off the keyboard to fast forward or rewind. Hit the Shift Key and the Right Arrow if you want to fast forward, or Shift and the Left Arrow to rewind.
Find out what the critics think
If you never know what to watch, it might be time to get some advice from the critics. The Chrome extension Enhancer adds valuable information to Netflix listings like IMDb credits and Rotten Tomatoes ratings to help you decide what to watch.
Which Netflix hack is your favourite? Share with us in the comment section.
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Looking for a stylish yet versatile piece that stays in place in the hot weather and keeps you looking cool? What you need is a bodysuit. Sure, it may be a pain to use the bathroom, but bodysuits are the perfect solution for a tucked shirt without the bunch around your waist.
From deep cutouts to bold colours and slimming designs, a bodysuit isn’t just a trend anymore, it’s a wardrobe staple that’s here to stay. Like a basic white t-shirt or a leather jacket, bodysuits work with all kinds of outfits and body types. If you’re in the market for a new one, here are six essential bodysuit brands to shop right now.
TUXE
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgEyTlJnHDg/?taken-by=tuxebodywear
Based in the United States, TUXE’s bodysuits stay true to the brand’s business casual aesthetic, keeping in mind that comfort is key when getting through a long work day. These suits are perfect for the office as they easily match with a pencil skirt or pant suit. Meghan Markle was even spotted in one for her first official evening appearance with Prince Harry back when the two were first dating.
Saint Body
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgTJONbh8xg/?taken-by=saintbodyofficial
Saint Body is a Polish bodysuit brand that’s about full glam. While these suits are ensured to be comfortable and made of the highest quality materials, they’re anything but basic. Some of their styles include shiny metallic pieces, hardware detailing, and even a gold sequin-covered suit. If you need a new piece for a night out, this is the brand to shop.
Alix
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlDij0rhNdj/?taken-by=alixnyc
New York-based brand Alix offers luxury basics for the busy city girl. Need something that can transition from day to night in no time? Alix is the place to go. The brand first launched its bodysuit collection in 2014 and it has since grown to include a range of designs such as one-shouldered bodysuits, as well as tie-knot styles for the ultimate statement piece.
The Bodysuit of Barcelona
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl6DT4dHWE_/?taken-by=thebodysuit
With its Mediterranean aesthetic and timeless designs, The Bodysuit of Barcelona offers feminine suits that work as super subtle layering pieces. Available in muted earth tones and mellow pastels, these bodysuits use fabric sourced from Italy for the softest feel.
ASOS
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhJmeckAjqJ/?taken-by=asos
Although it’s not a specific brand that focuses solely on bodysuits, ASOS is a go-to for a variety of affordable options. With a ton of different cuts, textures, patterns, and colours, ASOS has the perfect bodysuit to fit your needs. Plus, at these prices, you’ll be able to get more than just one.
Fantabody
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfnl1VagTXD/?taken-by=fantabody_
Founded in 2015 by Milan-based fashion photographer Carolina Amoretti, this bodysuit brand focuses on sportswear-inspired pieces that are functional for every body size and shape. With throwback aerobic styles, Fantabody’s suits also include stage-worthy details like the use of velvet materials and latex accents. So much so, these suits have been spotted on performers like Solange, Dua Lipa and M.I.A.
Do you know any other essential bodysuit brands? Share with us in the comment section.
Featured image: Instagram/ @tuxebodywear
Get your pedicures ready because summer isn’t done yet and sandals are here to stay. This season, there’s been a host of shoe trends that have seen fashion step back in time. From the return of toe ring sandals to thick slides and bright pops of color, it’s safe to say no woman can have just one pair of sandals this year.
Whether you’re off to the beach, looking for an office-appropriate set of summer shoes or just trying to find that perfect everyday pair, here are some sandal trends you need to get your hands on before summer ends.
Slides
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk-TC-LlKSN/?taken-by=brownsshoes
Slides are a go-to for simple yet stylish summer shoes and are perfect for dressing up denim. They’re the kind of shoes that work both poolside or for your everyday look – what more could a girl want?
Clear
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhG687pAOuG/
Spring’s clear sandal trend has continued into the summer this year with playful designs that feel like an updated version of your childhood dress-up shoes. They’re trendy and cool, but still very youthful.
Flatform
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For those days when you’re not feeling heels but the weather is too warm for sneakers, try a pair of chunky, flatform sandals. They make for the perfect contrast to all your summer dresses and skirts by offering the style of a heel but the comfort of a flat.
Lace-Up
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Don’t rule out classic gladiator sandals just yet. The lace-up trend is still feeling fresh for summer, especially when done in earthy tones that go all the way to the knee. Prepare to make a statement with these shoes.
Mules
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Closed or open-toed, textured or smooth, detailed or not, patterned or coloured, mules are one of the most popular summer shoe trends and can instantly upgrade even the simplest of outfits. Pick up these in any vibrant style as the trend continues to take over your feed.
Toe Ring
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Inspired by the Greek, toe ring sandals are back in style and are the summer shoe you need in your closet. The unexpected throwback look has gotten a modern update in the form of sleek, elevated flat leather sandals.
Fringe
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Keep it simple and comfortable in a pair of fringed sandals. They boast a beachy, nautical vibe but can still feel luxe if done right. One thing’s for sure, an added dose of fringe is sure to make all your summer looks pop.
Woven
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Give your wardrobe an instant refresh with traditional woven sandals. Whether topping off a pair of jeans or a breezy summer dress, this trend works in endless ways to give you that ‘fresh off the beach’ aesthetic.
Featured image: Instagram/ @soludos
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Wouldn’t it be great if you could spend a little less time in front of the mirror getting ready in the morning, clear some space on your bathroom counter and maybe even save some money along the way? Say hello to multitasking beauty products.
When have you actually had the luxury of being able to do just one thing at a time? Probably not that often. We’re a generation of multitaskers; we watch Netflix while we cook dinner, we answer emails while brushing our teeth, we call our mothers while commuting home from work – we do it all simultaneously. And our beauty routine should be no exception.
From lipstick that doubles as blush to moisturizer that becomes primer, multitasking beauty products are perfect for those always on the go. Consider these products your secret allies, ready to save the day. Here are 8 of the best multitasking beauty products that are sure to save you time.
Benefit’s Benetint
Benefit’s Benetint is a go-to among makeup experts and beauty lovers alike. It’s a kiss-proof and smudge-proof sheer tint that gives you a perfectly flushed look. It’s rose-tint provides lips and cheeks with an innocent yet provocative glow that will keep everyone guessing.
NARS The Multiple
Arguably NARS’ most iconic invention, The Multiple is its cream-to-powder multipurpose stick for eyes, cheeks, lips and body. You can literally do a full face of makeup with just this stick. It’s quick and easy to apply with its creamy texture and sheer colour to create fresh, glowy effects anywhere and everywhere.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant
Created back in 1930 by Elizabeth Arden herself, this award-winning cream does more than just hydrate skin. It can soothe sunburns, rehydrate chapped lips, heal rough elbows and calluses, keep eyebrows in place, make your eyelids shiny and even maintain the health of your cuticles. There are so many different ways to use this classic cream.
Pantene Flexible Hold Hairspray
Hairspray is a lifesaver, but not just when it comes to the matters of your hair. No eyebrow gel? Spray on a toothbrush and tame away. Fashion emergency? Spray it on the ends of a run in your tights to stop it from spreading. Static cling? Spritz on areas of your skirt or dress that are bunching. Using a flexible hold hairspray option ensures little residue and no crunchy aftermath.
Maybelline Master Contour V-Shape Duo Stick
Contouring has never been so quick and simple. Maybelline’s Master Contour V-Shape Duo Stick creates the illusion of shape and highlight in just two easy steps. Apply and blend the dark shade along the jawline and the hallows of your cheeks for structure then use the light shade to enhance the high points of your face.
Shiseido Translucent Loose Powder
Loose, colourless powder can be used for much more than blotting shine. First off, it’s like the Magic Eraser of makeup, toning down bronzer, blush or even eyeshadow if you’ve applied too much. It can also help to blur the edges of a smokey eye, matte your lipstick, can thicken lashes between coats and even be substituted for dry shampoo in a pinch.
CoverGirl LiquilineBlast Eyeliner Pencil
If you’ve only been using your eyebrow pencil for your brows, you’ve been underestimating its power. With a creamier eyebrow pencil, lining your lashes is just the start. Scribble it all over your lids for a cream eyeshadow effect or you can blend it along your cheekbones for a little bit of contour. Eyes, brows and contour all in one.
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish
MAC’s Mineralize Skinfinish is a luxurious pressed powder with multi-mineral complex that adds highlights to literally anywhere you want. This velvety soft powder has a radiant finish and comes in six glowy shades. You can use it as a highlighter on your face or body, on your cheeks as a soft-focus blush or blend eyeshadow looks.
Did we miss any great multitasking beauty products? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/ @sephora
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The sun is finally out and it’s here to stay, making sunglasses a summer wardrobe staple. So finding the perfect pair of sunnies that actually look good not only with your outfit but on your face is a major priority.
In the same way, you dress for your body type, you want to embrace the most flattering sunglass styles for your face. The right shape of shades helps make the most of your favorite features and play down any that you’re not-so-excited about. Here are some tips for finding frames that look like they’re custom fit for every face shape.
Square Face
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If you have a square face, you have defined angles across your face from the forehead and cheeks to your jawline. Since you already have great sharp lines on your face, you’ll want to balance that with a softer pair of sunglasses that are round or have curved edges. Classic aviators will work well with your bone structure, plus this face shape can also pull off the itty-bitty glasses trend effortlessly.
Round Face
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If you have a round face, choosing the right pair of sunglasses is all about creating some angles. A round face has soft, circular contours with a length and width that are almost equal so sunnies that have sharp lines are for you. Square shapes are beautiful on your face as they bring a bit of definition, mimicking the effect of cheekbones. Steer clear from anything that is already very round or too oversized.
Oval-Shaped Face
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If you have an oval-shaped face you’re one lucky girl! An oval-shaped face has balanced features and a chin that is slightly narrower than the forehead so almost any kind of sunglasses works. However, super dramatic styles will really make you stand out. Since this shape can carry a wider frame, consider cat-eye sunnies which will create a sense of balance in contrast to your proportions. Just don’t go too wide or oversized; you don’t want anything that sits too far out of your naturally slim visage.
Heart-Shaped Face
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If your face is heart-shaped, that means that your forehead and cheekbones are wider than your chin. You have a broader forehead and significantly narrower jawline that come to a point as your face slightly slims from top to bottom. Because of this, you should pick a sunglass style that has a wider top (like the brow bar in aviators) then tapers slightly at the bottom to compliment your bone structure. Try cat-eye sunnies or classic wayfarers for the ultimate face-flattering pick.
Diamond-Shaped Face
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Similar to the heart-shaped but rarer, a diamond-shaped face is characterized by a narrow forehead and narrow chin but they come in at around the same width. Because of this, you should look for shades with browline embellishments. Complimenting this face shape is easy with geometric construction or attention-grabbing details over the eyes. The embellishments will add width to your face that will accentuate your cheekbones.
Featured image: Instagram/ @lovelypepa