‘Tis the season to add a little moisture and shimmer to your look, whether you’re compensating for the lack of vitamin D or simply sprucing up. We believe you can keep it fresh and glowing all year long with the right lifestyle and products!
You don’t need to break the bank to live out all of your makeup fantasies!
Most of our favourite budget-friendly makeup lines below can be picked up at your local drugstore (how convenient!).
In the words of Lil’ Kim — keep that “lip gloss poppin’” ladies!
Wet n Wild
Instagram/ @wetnwildbeauty
We love Wet n Wild for many reasons – especially for their Megaglo highlight products, which comes in the form of sticks, powders, bars, palettes and powders with their average highlighter product around $6. We love all of their makeup products for the quality and price points, ranging from approximately $4 – $12. Look like a dewy angel on a budget!
Nyx
Instagram/ @nyxcosmetics_canada
Nyx is like that reliable friend you can always count on to lift your self-confidence and not suck you/your wallet dry. Too good to be true? Not with Nyx, consistently providing great cosmetics for urban life on a budget. Their foundation ranges from $11-20 and their mascara from $10-12. Nyx is a great one-stop makeup shop for top-notch beauty products to feed all of your alter egos.
Pacifica
Instagram/ @pacificabeauty
This brand speaks to our eco-friendly soul – they are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. They are also very conscious of their ingredients so you don’t have to worry about potentially harmful substances. The brand carries many great beauty products, including an awesome line of perfumes made with natural, essential oils for a very affordable price of $22 a pop. Their foundations and face products range from $12-18, their eye products from $11-20 and their lip wear from $5-10.
You can also get free samples if your order is over $25 and free shipping over $50!
Morphe
Instagram/ @morphebrushes
Morphe is our go-to brand for amazing palettes and brushes that are budget-friendly (so we can do the things we love while owning a multitude of looks). Their palettes are to die for; face palettes range from $27-38 and their eyeshadow palettes on average range from $20-30. Their foundation brushes range from $7-20. Having fun with a variety of different colours and shades is more than possible on a budget with Morphe (bless).
Marcelle
Instagram/@marcellecosmetics
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and dermatologically tested – this brand is excellent for sensitive skin types. Their products will give you a classy finish with comfortable wear. If you have sensitive skin and don’t like to spend a fortune on makeup while keeping quality high — Marcelle is for you! Their BB creams are $22.99, lipsticks are all $12.95 and mascaras from $9.95 – 12.95 (we love their mascara as they are hypoallergenic without compromising quality)
Maybelline
Instagram/@maybelline
Maybe she’s born with it. Maybe it’s Maybelline.
Maybelline’s tagline remains true as ever with products enhancing women’s natural beauty from as long as our generation can remember. Fun fact: they founded in New York City in 1915.
Many makeup enthusiasts prefer their products over high end, particularly their Superstay foundation providing 24-hour protection for only $14.99. Their mascara is around the $10.99 price point and their eyeliners around $12.99. Let Maybelline be your little beauty secret for flawless enhancement and a full wallet aka live your best, beautiful and vibrant life!
Featured image: Instagram/@marcellecosmetics
The holiday season is all about spending time with family and friends. Looking your best without stressing about the cost of your outfit is priceless — not to mention the stress of potentially spilling gravy or wine on your outfit.
Often, those we see over holidays is seldom and reserved for these special times. Make it even more special and show loved ones how awesome you’ve been with an outfit that does your beauty and inner confidence justice.
Here’s a list of our favourite places to shop for holiday parties and events.
Winners
Instagram/@winners
We had to start the list off with the mother of discounted fashion brands at 20-60% below department price. Winners has several shipments of new arrivals put on their floor multiple times per week. If you can’t find your perfect holiday outfit on your first trip, don’t stress and pop by another time for better luck. In this case, we advise starting the hunt as soon as your busy life allows – your holiday shine will thank you later.
Some lose and some win during the holiday craze — be a winner with dresses from $24.99 and up at Winners.
H&M
Instagram/@hm
H&M is the perfect place for a variety of holiday look options. Their vast selection allows you to execute that holiday vision you’ve been harbouring for 12 months. Options from blouses, blazers, trousers, dresses, jumpsuits, accessories and more. This is the go-to spot for an entirely new outfit from head to toe.
Having so much inventory means lots of sale selection options! Make your look even more affordable without compromise – shop their party dress sale selection here, featuring dresses from $17.99 and up.
Dynamite
Instagram/@dynamiteclothing
Get that #dynamitestyle and work their chic items into your wardrobe this holiday season. This season they are focused on sequins and we have no complaints. Wearing sequins gives off good times vibes and confidence. Let your hair down and have some good old fashion fun, you deserve to feel the love and laugh uncontrollably and dance and eat…clearly we are excited to enjoy all the holidays have to offer.
We love how adaptable their inventory is for any holiday occasion. Need a couple of looks for different gatherings? No problem, they’ve got cute and cozy sweaters for more intimate gatherings as well as stunning glam dresses and everything in between. Tbh, Dynamite slipped off our radar but damn, they are stepping up their game and we are impressed.
Uniqlo
Instagram/@uniqlo
Looking for more of a minimal yet classy holiday vibe? Uniqlo is a great place to supplement your existing wardrobe with a nice new blouse or beautiful winter sweater. This is the perfect option for a cottage-like holiday occasion.. We usually say “there’s no such thing as overdressing”, however, we are full advocates of dressing appropriately and sometimes less is more takes the cake.
Heading up to a cottage or simply wanting more of a cozy and toned down look this Christmas? We do NOT blame you, dress appropriately for the snowy conditions and still look stunning with Uniqlo.
You guessed it – their prices are within your holiday budget!
Common Sort
Instagram/@commonsort
Common Sort is thrift and consignment store with amazing prices and a great selection! We are always impressed by brands they carry, reflecting the collective style and vibes of the 3 locations they operate in:
- Common Sort – Parkdale, 1414 Queen Street West
- Common Sort Annex 444 Bloor St. W
- Sort Riverside 800 Queen St. E
Make a holiday shopping date with your friend(s) and hit up all locations – we almost guarantee all of you will score at least one piece for your holiday outfit.
Their business model is buying, selling and trading fashion which translates super well in Toronto’s urban landscape and culture, creating a space with curated yet affordable thrifted finds. Common Sort will give you the perfect touch of a cool girl from the city when you visit home for the holidays. It is also an awesome option for holiday parties, with fun thrifted items and you’ll just want to party after the thrill you get from your amazing and cheap find!
M Boutique
Instagram/@shop_mboutique
M Boutique believes in empowering women, embracing curves and has a love for all things fashion. They are a Canadian-owned and operated company with 19 stores across Toronto. Their numerous locations are perfect for the hectic holidays.
Feel like bringing the glam this season? M Boutique will give you instantaneous diva with her sh** together status. We love how they empower women with clothing that embraces curves. Whether you need a sexy outfit for a killer party or a more toned down sweater dress for more of a low-key event, they have plenty of options.
Prices are reasonable for a holiday season investment, they generally range from: $29 for sweaters and bodysuits, $35 for throw-over fashion blazers, $59 for party dresses and $69 for jumpsuits.
If you decide to enhance your holiday look with M Boutique, make sure you throw them a tag: #msgotit
Value Village
Instagram/@layitonmee
Mix and match old and new, leaving a little more financial wiggle room to spend a little extra on the other components of your outfit or gifts for others or savings or whatever!
Feeling up for the challenge? Get together with your friends and create a challenge to put together a killer thrifted holiday outfit. See what you can come up with! At the very least you will have many laughs, a killer time with friends and most likely an awesome new thrifted holiday piece.
Value Village will have you standing out like the snowflake you are.
The holidays are wonderful, but they can also be stressful. Keep stress in check with affordable choices and no compromise. Happy holidays lovelies!
Featured Image: Instagram/@dynamiteclothing
By now, you already know what a real Canadian winter is like.
When the snow falls, it’s pristine and powdery, but once people get walking through it, it gets mucky and slushy. This year, prepare yourself for whatever conditions you may find yourself in. You already know where to get the warmest of winter jackets and the best winter accessories, but now it’s time to take care of your biggest support: your feet!
Keep your toes warm and dry while staying slip-free this winter.
Here are some of our favourite winter boot brands to keep your toes warm all winter long.
Baffin
Instagram/@marikoizumi
Baffin won’t let your toes down this winter! They mix maximum warmth and traction support perfectly — offering boots that have a ski-bunny aesthetic. The brand has a diverse range of styles to suit whatever your needs are, whether you’re trekking down city sidewalks or on a deep woods adventure. Prices range between $150 and $230.
Shop Baffin winter boots on baffin.com.
Royal Canadian Boots
Instagram/@royal_canadian
Royal Canadian boots are perfect for winter in the city. They are urban and sleek while remaining practical in cold conditions, protecting against temperatures as cold as -30. Prices range between $200 and $300, but they are well worth it and will last for many winters to come.
Shop Royal Canadian winter boots on myroyalcanadian.com.
Sperry
Instagram/@sperry
Sperry offers classic duck-style insulated winter boots. Duck boots are so classic that they give off a vintage preppy aesthetic — give your step a little prep this winter! Boots from Sperry start at the $150 mark.
Shop Sperry winter boots on sperry.com.
Pajar
Instagram/@pajarcanada
Pajar is a Canadian brand that knows how cold toes can get on winter nights. Their boots will keep your feet warm with temperatures as cold as -30 and are a great height to keep your shins warm and the snow out, where it belongs. If you’re in Toronto, you can visit the brand’s first-ever retail store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre. Prices for classic boots start at $130.
Shop Pajar winter boots on pajar.com.
Cougar
Instagram/@karolinajez
Cougar makes warm winter boots in a variety of styles, allowing you to stay true to your unique and fabulous sense of style. Don’t let your style or feet slip this winter — grab yourself a pair, and you’ll never have to worry about walking in the snow again. Prices start at $150, and Cougar’s selection is good between -24 and -30 temperatures.
Shop Cougar winter boots on cougarshoes.com.
Merrell
Instagram/@shoe__villa
Best known for their hiking and fitness footwear, many don’t realize that Merrell actual offers winter boots, too. Merrell offers a boot line with “Artic Grip” technology, a specialized traction to make sure you stay on your feet with icy conditions. Their boots are designed with warmth and safety first, and style a close second. You can score a pair of boots for between $130 and $240.
Shop Merrell winter boots on merrell.com.
UGG
Make fun of UGG all you want, but their winter boots are legit. We’re not talking about their classic soft boots, but their collection of winter and snow footwear. Whether you’re looking to make a fashion statement, or just looking to make it through winter, rest easy knowing that UGG’s winter-ready boots are equipped with “Arctic Grip” and waterproof construction. Prices are a little steeper, starting at $160 and capping at $400.
Shop UGG boots at ugg.com.
Sorel
Instagram/@stressedsassychick
What would this list be if we didn’t include the OG? While Sorel has since expanded into different categories of footwear, what they started with (and what they know best) is winter boots! They’ve been making them since 1959 and are considered one of the best in the business. Their styles range from heavy duty to casual everyday wear, and their prices run between $130 and $400.
Shop Sorel boots on sorelfootwear.ca.
Featured Image: Instagram/@leadyducroux
We look to our local brands who know the depths of the Canadian cold for our winter accessories. Check out our favourite Canadian brands, if you’re in the market for some stylish, high-quality and warm winter accessories that will keep you safe even on the coldest winter days.
RAISED BY WOLVES
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpx0iX2B5mv/
Raised by Wolves is a great place for warm meets “cool”. Founded in 2008, their mission was to put Canada on the streetwear map. After a decade of operation, this brand has accomplished their mission, operating in over 20 countries while maintaining their streetwear aesthetic and ultimately keeping it real.
Shop their toques here
HUDSON’S BAY
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpj_T5nFbQw/
Hudson’s Bay is an iconic Canadian brand. It is nearly impossible to leave without mitts on your hands, a hat on your head and a scarf around your neck that will be stylish and properly equip you for the cold of winter. You can always kick it in true Canadian style with their Canadian Olympic Team Collection.
Shop hats, scarves and gloves here
MUTTONHEAD
https://www.instagram.com/p/BncTk8lhEla/
Muttonhead is made and operated right out of our own backyard – Toronto! They offer unisex, fair-trade, quality made apparel. This is a great brand to get a minimal, reliable and great looking toque!
Shop their winter accessories here
FRANK AND OAK
https://www.instagram.com/p/BojfFSCFgKG/
Frank and Oak is solid for winter accessories – literally, carrying toques, mitts and scarves in both neutral and fun colours. Have some fun with colour-play, pull up the colour wheel and choose a winter accessory that complements your parka!
Shop their winter accessories here
ROOTS
https://www.instagram.com/p/Boz31m2ndm4/
Roots is near and dear to Canadians. Most of us have grown up with it in our lives (to get sentimental). The brand has been keeping us warm through the Canadian winter since 1973. They have a cabin-wear aesthetic and just looking at their pieces makes us want to curl up beside the fire with a cup of hot chocolate.
Shop their winter accessories here
HERSHEL SUPPLY COMPANY
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl06O5xh6Zx/
Hershel is a great brand to keep it urban yet streamlined. Their no-nonsense approach naturally spills over to the good selection of toques they offer.
Shop their beanies here
Featured Image: Instagram/@Frankandoakwomen
Posts you might be interested in:
This Cruelty-Free Canadian Outerwear Company Helps Homeless And Saves Wildlife
Canadian Shopping Websites You Should Know
Canadians Will Now Be Able To Buy More From The U.S. Duty-Free Limit Raised from $20 to $150
7 Canadian Brands That Celebrities Love
7 Canadian Shoe Brands You Need In Your Closet
Autumn is only as cozy as you make it. A staple fall sweater is a crucial component of a cute and cozy fall wardrobe. Check out our list to find the coziest sweaters in the city!
FROCK-HEAD
View this post on Instagram
Really feeling the subtle sexiness of this varsity-style sweater from @cmeocollective
Frock-Head is a lovely corner boutique on Roncesvalles Ave. They carry quality local and international clothing, accessories and apothecary. It is evident each piece is thoughtfully selected, as the modest store is plentiful with quality brands. If you are looking for that one beloved cozy fall sweater, Frock-Head is bound to have a stylish yet classic sweater made of good quality fabric that will hold up for several fall seasons.
Location: 97 Roncesvalles Ave
DURUMI
Durumi is a Toronto-based brand, carrying curated and on-trend clothing and accessories. Their apparel is beautifully selected and they have a great selection of well-priced minimal style jewelry. Any purchase at this boutique is a wise investment for your wardrobe – especially a warm and stylish fall sweater! We love the look of an autumn-inspired sweater paired with minimal jewelry; less is more when you have the right quality pieces!
Location: 416 Queen St West
COAL MINER’S DAUGHTER
This small Toronto boutique has 2 locations in the city. They specialize primarily in Canadian clothing, jewelry, and accessories, many of them local designers. Their goal is to have over 80% Canadian designers and brands in their stores.
Logically speaking – Canadians know how important a cozy sweater is when the temperature starts to drop. Snuggle up in one of their well-crafted Canadian sourced sweaters!
3 Locations:
744 Queen St W
3023 Dundas St W
87 Roncesvalles Ave
PHILISTINE
Philistine is a clothing and lifestyle shop for women and men. They carry vintage pieces as well as new clothing, publications, stationery, and other lifestyle items. Their price point is reasonable and their sweaters are faithfully well-constructed and you guessed it – cozy!
Location: 928 Queen St W
OAK AND FORT
Oak and Fort needs no introduction – in some cases, brands are known for a very good reason. Their fall sweater collection is a great reminder of our love for this brand!
Locations:
666 Queen St W
Toronto Eaton Centre – 220 Yonge St
What are you favourite Toronto shops for cute and cozy fall sweaters? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Image: Instagram/@thedurumi
Posts you might be interested in:
Where To Find The Most Unique Denim Jackets Designed in Toronto
Where To Find a Perfect White Tee in Toronto
7 Tips for Shopping at Luxury Stores
A Guide To The Best Sneaker Stores in Toronto Neighbourhoods
10 Toronto Stores to Get Seriously Cool AF Outfits
Fall is the time to get out and enjoy yourself before the snow hits. And what better way to spend the last warm days than to listen to some great live music. Whatever genre you’re into, the city has it covered. Check out our list of top upcoming concerts in the city.
SAINTSENECA
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn699HYndTh/?taken-by=saintseneca_music
This American folk rock band from Ohio has a mystical sound that will have you in a blissful trance.
Genre: Folk Rock
Date: Wed, Oct. 10
Price: $13.50
Location: Rivoli
Time: 8 pm
BLACK JOE LEWIS & THE HONEYBEARS
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmOe_6fhmOf/?taken-by=blackjoelewis
Black Joe Lewis is a Texas native who has an innate feel for blues and guitar work. He won’t disappoint the blues fans!
Genre: American blues, funk, and soul
Date: Wed, Oct. 10
Price: $30.00
Location: The Horseshoe Tavern
Time: 8:30 pm
MILO GREENE
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkBOAKWDEAf/?taken-by=milogreene
Milo Greene is a cinematic indie-pop band, formed in LA. According to the show description – “In skill, it effortlessly mingles sounds. In intent, it envelops itself in harmonies. In spirit, it has the beguiling ability to disarm listeners.”
We couldn’t be more intrigued!
Genre: Indie pop
Date: Friday, Oct 12
Price: $17.50
Location: Lee’s Palace
Time: 8:30 pm
TREVOR POWERS
https://www.instagram.com/p/BoZcKs6gLvz/?taken-by=trevorpowers
Trevor Powers is an eclectic mix of wonderful sounds that elicit a magical, eerie and lyrical response. We guarantee this show will be beautifully “out there”.
Worth mentioning: his new album was mixed with Beyonce’s frequent collaborator Stuart White (legit).
Genre: Experimental, art pop
Price: $15
Location: The Horseshoe Tavern
Time: 8:00 pm
JOEY LANDRETH
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlLht6KgZqf/?taken-by=joeylandreth
Joey Landreth delivers sincerity and authenticity in his lyrics and melodies. He is known for his musical storytelling and captivating performances. This one will make you warm-and-fuzzy inside on a cool autumn evening.
Genre: Canadian alternative country and folk
Price: $15
Location: The Horseshoe Tavern
Time: 8:30 pm
PORCHES
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgYxdpFgnWD/?taken-by=porches_hiii
Porches is an American synth-pop New York-based musician. This show is going to be a fun one! Prepare to have an electric night with great music to groove to.
Genre: Synth-pop
Price: $25
Location: Sat, Oct 27
Time: The Rec Room
MIRAH
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhMl9OflwWL/?taken-by=mirahmusic
Mirah has been creating independent music since the 90s. Pitchfork has claimed her “incredible voice – a versatile coo that flits from low, sultry tones to high, airy falsetto in one breath.”
Her music has a nod to the 90s, coupled with a contemporary feel that will leave you breathless.
Genre: Singer, songwriter, pop
Date: Monday, Oct 29
Price: $15
Location: Monarch Tavern
Time: 8 pm
IAN SWEET
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn9hyRTht5m/?taken-by=ian_sweeeeet
Ian Sweet is an indie-pop trio that emerged from Boston’s underground music scene and has recently relocated to Brooklyn NY. They have a raw and colourful sound that will surely up-your-mood!
Genre: Indie-pop
Date: Thursday, Nov 1
Price: $13.50
Location: Monarch Tavern
Time: 8 pm
Do you know any other noteworthy upcoming shows? Please let us know in the comments below!
Featured Image: Instagram/@grahamfink
There’s nothing like stopping in a cute cafe on an autumn day. If you’re in the market for the best Toronto cafes and bakeshops – we’ve got you covered! Check out a list of our favourite under the radar spots below.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BoJ4b_XBKiM/?hl=en&taken-by=almondbutterflybakeshop
The Almond Butterfly is a gluten-free cafe and bakeshop. They offer espresso-based drinks and have an eco-chic vibe with a mixture of wood and modern. Located in the Harbord Village area, grab a drink and treat and look out into the fall street. The area is great to stroll around and check out bookstores during a weekend afternoon.
Location: 100 Harbord St
Hours: M-S 8-7, Sunday 8-3
https://www.instagram.com/p/BACuw4ykCGK/?taken-by=sovereigncafe
The Sovereign has that highly sought-after indie vibe that we most crave with a cafe experience. They effortless execute a laid-back and classic feel with just the right amount of rustic.
They self-describe as “A place where regulars are greeted by name, locals meet to hear the news and connoisseurs flock to sample the best shots pulled..”
We definitely encourage you to stop by while in Davenport Village.
Sovereign has 2 locations (8 min walk from one another-brought to you by Google Maps).
Locations:
1350 Davenport location – has seating for relaxing and/or eating
3 Oakwood Ave location – a micro-space to grab on the go
Hours: M-F 7-5 / S+S 8-4
https://www.instagram.com/p/2qgmF0o8kH/?taken-by=mitzis_cafe
“Your local corner spot”
This cafe is tucked away in the residential area in Roncesvalles village. This is the spot for all-day breakfast! Grab a satisfying and warming breakfast then check out the village! Mitzi’s is also in walking distance to take a stroll along the lake at Sunnyside.
Location: 100 Sorauren Ave
Hours: M-F 7:30-4 / S+S 9-4
https://www.instagram.com/p/BE8W2KeHQri/?taken-by=capitalespresso
This cafe has great natural lighting and ample seating to pull out your laptop and get some work done, read a book or simply relax without feeling crowded. It is a decent-sized place with a beautiful exposed brick. They have a bookshelf “library” to choose from and has a friendly Parkdale community vibe. We highly recommend!
Location: 1349 Queen St W
Hours: M-F 7-7 / S+S 8-7
https://www.instagram.com/p/BdB7iUnnTpj/?hl=en
“Traditional Home Baked Goods in the Heart of East Chinatown”
If you’re anything like us, your sweet tooth revs up with the cold weather. There are few things as satisfying as a quality baked good with a coffee. They have an array of baked goods to choose from to accommodate a range of preferences. They also serve quality drip coffee which doesn’t disappoint! There is a small seating area to relax and enjoy.
If you are up for a nice autumn walk after your sweet – Riverdale Park, Riverdale farm and the Don River Valley trail are just minutes away!
Location: 635 Gerrard St E
Hours: M-F 8-6/ S+S 9-6
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnl8tGTAziG/?taken-by=hopper_coffee_toronto
This coffee shop is a fun and lively spot! It is more of a grab and go concept, however, they have a wooden bench lining the perimeter for open feel seating. It has an artistic aura; the owners painted the images on the walls and had graffiti artists decorate their trash cans. They serve locally roasted, Parkdale coffee beans and create a very welcoming environment.
Alexandra park is right across the street, making it a perfect spot to meet up with a couple of friends on the weekend and enjoy the colourful falling leaves.
Location: 324 College St
Hours: M-F 7-5 / S+S 9-5
What are your favourite under the radar cafes in the city for fall outings? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Image: Instagram@little_world_of_sylvi
Posts you might be interested in:
The 7 Best Cafes to Work from in Toronto
The Cutest Cafes To Sip A Latte in Toronto
The Most Instagrammable Coffee Shops in Toronto
The Best Places for Gluten-Free Options Around Toronto
This Guilt-Free Vegan Cinnamon Bun Chain Just Opened In Toronto
Here’s a riddle – what’s the best and most accessible way to find unique clothing pieces, all the while practicing sustainable fashion and best of all, from the comfort of your own home!? You guessed it – shopping for vintage clothing on Etsy! This is also a great way to mix unique pieces together, creating a personalized style that showcases your one of a kind personality.
We’ve compiled our favourite reasonably priced vintage shops on Etsy for all facets of your life – go on and knock ‘em dead.
HELLOGEMINIRISING
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnFJsOolflG/?taken-by=geminirisingvintage
Why we love: Whether you are looking for a dress for a night out, a cute weekend errand look – this shop has you covered. Majority of their pieces are highly transitional, making it a low-maintenance transition from day to night.
They are located in BC, meaning cheaper shipping and your purchase goes towards supporting a small Canadian business!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmltXd5lVFO/?taken-by=american_archive
Why we love: This shop knows how to pick vintage, you can trust they know what brands and styles are worthy. The average price of their items may be slightly higher than some of the other shops we’ve listed, but rest assured you are getting a quality investment piece that is well-constructed and will last years to come. They are located in sunny California, so you know they’ve got those LA vintage hookups. This shop is perfect occasions that call for a killer look.
STARLET VINTAGE
https://www.instagram.com/p/BiAtmKoDWXN/?taken-by=starletvintageclothing
Why we love: There are so many reasons why we love this shop, one of them happens to be their selection of beautiful vintage SHOES! Truth be told, they are great for all apparel and have a classy aesthetic that we are lusting over. These are forever-in-my-wardrobe type pieces!!
Looking for a new pair of fall boots? Starlet Vintage has you covered!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BbwzpeEHP22/?taken-by=starletvintageclothing
…AND they are located in BC – we are all for faster and cheaper shipping, coupled with supporting small Canadian businesses. Less online shopping guilt ftw.
TWITCH VINTAGE
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bce-bPzFuuA/?taken-by=twitchvintage
Why we love: This is a great shop for cheap, curated finds. Particularly, a gold mine for 90s grunge babydoll dresses and fun abstract 80s prints! Did we mention the price is oh-so-right!?
LUXIE VINTAGE
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgkOHmxDaqy/?taken-by=luxievintage
Why we love: This shop isn’t for the vintage faint of heart. Wear one of their items and achieve an instant lift of effortless cool. They are located in Arizona; meaning they’ve got that highly sought after dessert vibe locked down.
DIRTYBIRDIESVINTAGE
https://www.instagram.com/p/Beoo1f-g13X/?taken-by=dirtybirdiesvintage
Why we love: Like any smart online shopper does, we trust reviews; this shop has an impressive 5-star review from 9,371 reviewers and 32,959 sales, abolishing any small concern with buying vintage clothing online.
This shop is adorable and perfect for a toned-down vintage look – perfect for a stylish look during work week!
REWIND TEES
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlLBpo8gR-V/?taken-by=rewindtees
Why we love: We had to give you a great shop for rare 70s, 80s and 90s vintage t-shirts at a reasonable price. Vintage t-shirts are insanely versatile – dress them up with a pencil skirt and a statement necklace, or down with your fav pair of weekend jeans.
What are your favourite Etsy shops for vintage clothing? Please let us know in the comments below!
Featured Image: Instagram/american_archive
Posts you might be interested in:
7 Tips for Shopping at Luxury Stores
7 Local Stores in Toronto Where you can Actually Meet the Designers
8 Tips For Safe Online Shopping So You Can Sleep Easier At Night
6 Money-Saving Tips for Shopping On Vacation
8 Smart Tips For Cross-Border Shopping in Buffalo
It’s easy to justify a few bucks per day for a much needed morning coffee and late-afternoon pick-me-up. However, it’s harder to justify the yearly expense of daily coffee shop visits. According to Loans Canada, the average North American spends $1,100 a year on coffee – like we said, not so easy to justify!
Image: Loans Canada
Now that we have your attention, here are our top 6 tips to save where you can, while remaining caffeinated. Let’s face it, we aren’t willing to give up our coffee companion.
1. FOR THE LATTE LOVERS OUT THERE: ORDER AN ESPRESSO IN A REGULAR-SIZE CUP AND ADD YOUR FAVOURITE MILK OR NON-DAIRY MILK
Lattes are great, but the price…not so much. They consist of 1-2 shots espresso and steamed milk. We’ve got a savvy solution to satisfy both your latte craving and your wallet – order 1-2 shots espresso for a fraction of the price and add your choice of milk or non-dairy milk. This way you can customize the strength of your drink (number of shots) and shave off anywhere from $1-3 (depending on the cafe).
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnU4qyDjQrs/?taken-by=coffee.lover.diary
For colder months: bring back to the office and nuke in the microwave for 30 seconds for a creamy, cozy customized latte.
For warmer months: ask for your espresso on ice and enjoy a refreshing iced latte.
2. ORDER YOUR USUAL SIZE IN A LARGER CUP
Get the max capacity of your usual size with additional room for milk. Plus, the barista is likely to overestimate and pour you a little more love aka coffee if it’s in a larger cup (psychology). Better yet, swap your usual size for one size up, in a larger cup. You can save the extra coffee in the fridge for your late-afternoon cup – saving two of life’s most valuable resources: time and money!
3. ASK FOR YOUR FAVOURITE NON-DAIRY MILK AFTER YOU HAVE PAID
Prefer coconut, almond or soy milk? Some coffee shops charge extra for these options, typically ranging from 60 to 80 cents. Wait until after you have paid for a non-dairy milk, chances are they won’t bother charging you afterwards. Dairy intolerances, allergies and diet preferences are widely known and respected, the good-hearted baristas understand this. If you know of a coffee shop in your area that doesn’t happen to charge extra for non-dairy milk, all the better.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnXIjX5A2at/?tagged=latte
4. ASK FOR COFFEE PUNCH CARDS
Take advantage of punch cards and earn your way to a free drink! Local coffee shops often have punch cards to incentivise repeat customers. Ask your barista if they offer them; if asking makes you uncomfortable, they are often kept near the cash register, so keep your eyes peeled.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BDgvaI4PHPL/?tagged=coffeepunchcards
Image: Instagram
5. GET A CUSTOMER REWARDS CARD
Image: Starbucks
If you tend to get your daily coffee at a chain, such as Starbucks, get a rewards card. If you are loyal to another coffee shop, find out if they offer one – what’s the harm in future free drinks?
Learn more about the Starbucks Rewards Card and sign up here!
6. BRING A REUSABLE COFFEE CUP
Investing in a reusable coffee cup is both environmentally and fiscally responsible. Most coffee shops offer a small discount for customers who bring their own reusable cup. Starbucks offers a 10-cent discount, others offer greater discounts; personal anecdote – this week I noticed my local cafe offers a 20-cent discount! This might seem insignificant at the time, but remember, it all adds up.
Do you know any other tips to get the most out of your coffee shop bucks? Share your wisdom in the comments below!
Featured image: Instagram/@coffee.lover.diary