Hearts For Autumn

Oct 29, 2015

Today, I'm teaming up with Elana Carello and featuring one of her lovely sweaters. Isn't the heart + stripe pattern darling?! I loved pairing it with jeans & trench for my lunch date, so fall, and so perfect! I'm also excited to pair this sweater with my beloved pencil skirt, or as a topper over a more casual dress! And... Elana is graciously offering all By The Shore readers a 10% discount code. Just use, code BYTHESHORE at checkout. Bring on sweater weather, am I right?!



And speaking of all things cozy?! This weekend I'm hosting two of my favourite ladies (Cee of Coco & Vera and Lynn of Hearted Girl) for an autumnal gathering. Yay, yay! I'm making mulled wine, we'll be decorating mini pumpkins and pulling out our favourite plaids & autumn hued outfits. I can't wait + I'm so thankful these ladies share my enthusiasm for this time of year!




Then next week, Martin & I are finally getting around to hanging curtains in our master-bedroom and second bedroom (which is my office)... I can't believe we've already been in our new home since May! How is that even possible?! I'm also horribly overdue for a home tour, but here's hoping I'll start that in November. What about you? Anyone moving or re-decorating? If you've featured your home on your blog?! Let me know... I'd love to check it out!! xo




Outfit Details:

Trench, The Gap
Sweater, c/o Elana Carello
Jeans, American Eagle
Tote Bag, Banana Republic
Flats, Zara (similar)
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Tips For Blonde Hair Care

Oct 26, 2015

Today, I'm excitedly sharing my tips for blonde hair care. When it comes to caring for hair?! I'll admit, I'm just a little obsessed! This past summer I went from brunette to blonde, which I love, and caring for my hair has become top priority in my beauty routine. With that said, I've accumulated a wealth of knowledge in that time and I'm happily passing on my most beloved tips!



1. Olaplex - Also known as my new best friend! This miracle worker reconnects broken disulfide sulfur bonds in the hair. What does all this fancy jargon mean?! Well basically, my hair was healthier & stronger after the bleaching then it was coming in. Amazing, right?! So the next time you're looking to lighten or bleach your hair ask your stylist about Olaplex, you'll want to high five me until the end of time! ;)

2. Dry Bar Brightening Shampoo - I typically use my toning shampoo once or twice a month and love it. It quickly reduces any brassiness and my colour looks brighter & whiter! For best results... I like to leave mine in for at least 15 minutes and then simply rinse!

3. Sweet Almond Hair Treatment - I started using hair masks a few years ago, and not sure what I was waiting for because they're awesome. Definitely on the pricey side, but mine typically last 7+ months, so when you break it down it's a worthy investment. This particular hair mask by Wen is my favourite though, the moisture & shine are amazing!

4. Heat Protect Spray - This one is a must for chemically treated hair! I blow dry and curl my hair several times a week and the GHD Style Heat Protect Spray has been a god send -- it's light weight, keeps my hair protected from heat and bonus points for smelling awesome too!

5. Brushing The Right Way - Firstly, I never, ever, brush my hair when it's wet. I wait until it's dampish, spray in a detangler and then use a wide tooth comb. And for everyday? I'd also recommend a natural bristle brush. I've been using mine for years and can't imagine life with out it!

There you have it friends, my tips for blonde hair! Have any of your own? I'd love to hear your faves too! xo
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Estimate Bay

Oct 20, 2015

Hello, friends! I wasn't quite sure if I'd get a post up today... but yay, I made it! ;) Life has been a little chaotic these past few days, Scouts been under the weather and now Martin hasn't been feeling well either... but I'm hoping our little family will be back to normal in no time! On a separate note, a BIG thank you to Shop Ruche for featuring my outfit on their instagram... I was totally giddy & honoured when I saw my picture pop up in their feed. So fun!!



As for the dress?! Pretty gorgeous, right? You can still nab this long sleeved beauty here (psst, it's on sale)! The material is thick and perfect for cooling weather, plus it's been such a versatile piece. I've worn it with black skinnies & a denim vest, and then out for errands with an oversized plaid scarf & motto jacket... can't wait to see what other fun variations I'll come up with for this fall and winter!




Other than that, not too much to report. I'm hoping to slow life down this week. As I mentioned in Friday's post, I've been feeling a little burnt out. So, it's going to be a lot of condo cleaning, nursing my hubs & pooch back to health, catching up with my mom and hopefully sneaking out for a coffee date with my love once he's fully back on his feet. What about you, friends? What's your week looking like?!




Outfit Details:

Hat, Forever 21 (similar)
Cardigan, Old Navy (similar + crazy cute!)
Dress, Shop Ruche
Tights, Joe Fresh
Booties, Aldo Shoes (similar)
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Weekend Ready + Lessons On Balance

Oct 16, 2015

This week has been great! This week has also brought some much needed lessons on balance -- especially where blogging is concerned. We've all been there, right?! In fact, I end up there every few months! ;) Over the past couple of weeks, I've been watching myself burn out a little, and of course, I want to make sure I nip it in the butt as soon as possible. When it comes to finding balance? For me, that means putting a time limit on my endeavours, checking in with myself, and making sure I'm not always hitting the ground running! I also, desperately, need to learn to replace my "shoulds" with "wants"... it makes a world of difference!!



So, the goal is to ease up a little! Remind myself the sky will not fall if I post on Friday, as opposed to my usual Thursday slot, ect! As I forge ahead, I hope to incorporate more mindfulness and purpose into all that I do. Sounds good, right?! I also took time to write out a mission statement for the blog and remind myself exactly why this space exists!




Probably the biggest lessons I've learned as a result of the above... is? Don't blog for followers, or to attract sponsors. Blog because you love it + share what you're most passionate about. Passion is contagious, authenticity is your roadmap, and the world truly is your oyster! Also, don't be afraid to step back when you need to, getting a break from the "virtual" world is honestly so important. You'll come back recharged and re-inspired. I promise! On that note, happiest weekend, everyone!! xo


Outfit Details:

Cardigan, Old Navy (similar + crazy cute!)
Top, Madewell | Jeans, American Eagle (so comfy!)
Tote Bag, Banana Republic
Flats, Zara (similar)
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