Europe Trip - Part 1

About 8 weeks from today, I'm going to be going to Europe for the very first time (I know, it's a sin I haven't been before, I know this and I'm repenting very soon.) My cousin is getting married in Bilbao, Spain and I made a last minute decision to go because I figured, why not? You don't get the chance to go places like Europe often and I know that this is kind of the prime time to go. So needless to say, I'm getting kind of excited.

The funniest part of being excited is what I'm exactly excited about. I'm not really too excited for the wedding (although I know it'll be wonderful), I'm mostly excited for the culture, the architecture, the people and, surprise surprise, the clothes.

I've made myself a deal for this trip, while I'm in Bilbao (we're also going to Paris, which another post will be based around) I'm going to try and wear as little neutral as possible, specifically black. I know this is a completely narrow-minded view, but when I think of Spain in summer, I just see colour. So that is what I wanted to base my post about: Spain in Colour.

There are a few different things we have planned so far in Bilbao while we're there: a beach day, a tapas tour, the wedding (of course), and just a day to take in the beautiful city of Bilbao.

The Beach

Bikini, Sandals, Cover-Up, Hat, Tote, Sunglasses

Ever since I knew I would have to be buying a new bathing suit for Spain (all my others are now too big), I knew I wanted an orange one. I'm not entirely sure why, but I just wanted one. I'm pleased to say that, although you see black here, this is the only outfit in this post really featuring it! 

Tapas Tour

Dress, Bag, Yellow Bangles, Red Bracelet, Wooden Bracelet, Sunglasses, Sandals, Head Wrap, Tiger Ring

This was by far the one that took me the longest to put together. I loved the combination of that dress and the bag but the rest gave me trouble. I knew a maxi dress is probably the best way to go for the tapas tour because my stomach will be awfully full by the end of it, so I know I want something pretty comfortable to wear. 

The City of Bilbao

Shirt, Shorts, Sandals, Tote, Necklace, Sunglasses

I love these shorts. As soon as I saw them I knew I needed to feature them. They're funky but would probably be insanely comfortable because they're crochet. I also really liked putting that green, almost teal colour, with the bright orange. It's very unexpected, but I love it! Side note: I've realized that really nice tote bags tend to be expensive. I saw this one on ASOS and loved it so much that I thought I would still feature it even though it's a little pricey for my tastes.

The Wedding

Dress, Clutch, Shoes, Belt, Earrings

This is probably the most simple of outfits I have ever featured on my blog, but with those colours I didn't want to go to crazy. I actually have this dress for the wedding and the picture doesn't do the colour justice. It looks powder yellow here, but when you see it in person, it's more similar to a highlighter. When I was playing around with colours that would match it, I was actually pleasantly surprised that there were a lot of options! I considered a blue-teal colour, a lavandar, navy, but something about the coral just kept bringing me back. I actually think this will be my actual outfit for the wedding because I adore everything so much I couldn't possibly try for something different now. Again, the dress and shoes are a little more pricey than what I would usually feature, but it's for a special occasion so I couldn't resist! 

I hope you enjoyed my post on all colour, all the time. Next I'll be featuring outfits for Paris. If you could do anything in Paris, what would it be? I would love to hear some ideas for places or activities to base these outfits around.

-- Rebekah Eden.

Sherlock Style

A few days ago Riley and I went to go see Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, which, for those who don't know, is the sequel to the Sherlock Holmes released in 2009. I loved the original. Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law's serious bromance was fantastic and the storyline was amazing as well.

However, my past with sequels have been seriously hit and miss, I'm sure many would agree. Sequels can so often ruin the love of the original. Needless to say, I went into this one not expecting to enjoy it, even though I'd heard many, many good things. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised. This movie was just as good, if not better, than the original. I seriously recommend it if you were a fan of the first!

The one thing about this movie that I loved was Madam Simsa (played by Noomi Rapace). Not just her character, but her clothing! I've always been a fan of goddy gypsy clothing. Of course, it's not something you wear 24/7, but it's definitely fun to add little gypsy-like pieces into outfits. For this particular blog, I wanted to showcase the style in the movie and how you could wear it without looking completely crazy (well, maybe a little) featuring Madam Simza, Holmes and Watson.

Skirt, Lace Bralette, Shirt, Boots, Scarf, Gold Bracelet, Purple Bracelet, Hat, Bag, Necklace

The thing I noticed about Madam Simsa was that she wears a lot of mix-matching patterns and textures. Generally, she's in dark neutrals mixed with warm colours like bright browns, reds and oranges. Of course, lots of gold and over the top jewelry.

Skirt, Shirt, Blazer, Scarf, Shoes, Clutch, Watch, Belt, Ring

Watson is pretty much the opposite of Simsa. He wears really basic fabrics (I switched it up a bit with the metallic skirt) and very neutral colours. Where Simsa wears warm colours, Watson is almost always in cool greys, blues and tans. He dresses very simple, but simple can still look good!

Leather Pants, Shirt, Vest, Scarf, Boots, Watch, Bag, Amber Ring, Red Ring

In the last movie, Sherlock dressed much more similar to Watson. But in this one, he mixes textures and patterns a lot more. He dresses like an interesting mix between Watson and Simsa. Although he still is generally in a simple suit, he finds ways to add in warm colours and intricate patterns like Simsa. Of course, as always, he sparks a bit of interest in everything he wears. 

I hope you enjoyed my take on Sherlock Holmes style. Go out and see the movie or you'll be missing out!

Rebekah Eden.

The Blue Blazer

We've had a pretty mild winter this year for Canada. Usually by this time, it's in the negative teens and we've got a few feet of snow. Today, it rained. That took away the small amount of snow we had left! It's kind of upsetting, being only a few weeks until Christmas, but the positive to it, is that I can wear heels for a little bit longer!

A few weeks ago, a friend invited myself and Riley to a magic show in Toronto. Generally, when things like this occur in my life (a.k.a I get to actually do things, which I know weeks in advance) I start to hum and haw over what I might want to wear. This I hadn't thought to much into, until I found this amazing electric blue blazer at H&M. I decided, after purchasing it, that that would be part of my magic show outfit.
When I got into the car, I said to Riley, 'I want to look like a magician as much as possible.'

The Outfit

Blazer: H&M
Leather Pants: H&M

Necklace: Forever21

Bracelet: Vintage

Shoes: Aldo

Rebekah Eden.

Mid-Winter Night's Dream

I apologize for the lack of update, for the past month I was participating in National Novel Writing Month, so it took up a lot of time. But I'm back with a vengeance -- and outfits! I made some of these over the month, and I apologize for any missing links. 

The cold weather has just recently started to settle in for the long run here and Canada, so I decided I would take that into account for this post. Many people have their own personal styles when it comes to everyday winter fashion, but many people don't think about night out fashion. Going out in the winter is sometimes one of the only things that keeps you smiling in the crappy weather, and it definitely helps to look good while doing it.

I'm a firm believer that the one thing you have to think most about in the winter is your coats. Here in Canada, you have to have a good selection, because wearing the same black jacket every day in the winter can get old fast. It's worth the money if you live in cold weather to invest in a few different winter coats over the years, generally timeless coats that will be good for many years.

Your winter coat is important for many reasons, beyond just the warmth. Whether you're planning on walking around outside for hours, or just taking the jacket off as soon as you walk into the restaurant, your coat is the first thing people will notice about you. And you don't want a beautiful outfit ruined by some old, ratty ski-jacket.

No matter where you're going out with friends, remember that you don't have to skimp on looking good just because their is some snow on the ground!

Polar & Posh

Coat, Red Blouse, Skirt, Shoes, Tights, Necklace, Clutch

Hip & Heated

Coat, Dress, Tights, Glittery Boots, Hat, Scarf, Bag

Pretty in Plaid

Jacket, Dress, Tights, Booties, Headband, Purse, Scarf

Hopefully these help to inspire you for your winter outfits. Remember that you don't have to compromise no matter the temperature outside! Warm up that grey sky with some bright and fun styles!

I hope to be updating a little more as well. Stay tuned!

Rebekah Eden.

1920's Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner, and after some humming and hawing over what I was going to be, my good friend, Riley, suggested I be a flapper; no doubt after one of our favourite shows, Boardwalk Empire. No matter why she suggested it, I immediately warmed to the idea. 

You see, I've never been a huge fan of Halloween. When I was a kid, I didn't really like sweets, and now, as a grown up, my issues are more with the costumes. I can enjoy dressing up, escaping your own skin for a little while, but, as a young woman, there are not very many options (it seems) that aren't insanely sexy. Which, don't get me wrong, aren't bad in some cases. But I'm not the type who wants to walk down the street looking like that. 

So I stayed on a flapper. It's fun, comfortable, easy to find and a lot of option! This post is a tutorial about make-up, not the costume. However, just because this IS a fashion blog, I did make a little collage of an outfit that would be great for a 1920's look, that isn't too expensive.

Flapper Dress, Shoes, Tights, Hair Piece, Clutch, Earrings, Necklace

(This is actually a great costume right now -- 1920's is a trend this coming spring, so you might find a lot of options in store!) 

Anyway, what I really got excited about when I thought about being a flapper for Halloween, funnily enough, was the make-up! 1920s make up is so dramatic and dark, something that you definitely can't do every day. Because it takes a steady hand, I decided to do a few practice rounds in the last couple of weeks, just so that the night of, I knew what I was doing. The last time I did it, I took step by step pictures so that I could post it here. 

Please keep in mind, I'm not a make-up artist. I'm not even close. I've had no professional training and all the stuff I'm using can be found at any drug/department store (save for one item I found at a costume shop, but you can use a pressed powder or just your eyeliner in the same way). 

Here is a list of things you're going to need, many you will probably already have: 

- Foundation/primer

- Make-up sponges

- Small angle brush

- Black eyeliner

- Oil based make up (I chose Graftobian Creme Liner in Black)

- Dark red lipstick

- Red lipliner (optional)

- Setting Powder (optional)

The steps aren't really hard to follow, it's more about the angles and being careful with your hand! You might want to try this once or twice before the real thing, as I did. 

The Before 

(scroll down to the end of the post for the after!)

WARNING: THE NEXT PHOTOS INVOLVE A WIG CAP. YOU MAY LAUGH. IT'S OKAY, I'LL NEVER KNOW.

Step 1: The Base

The first step is one of the easiest by far! Begin with your regular foundation and put a generous amount over your entire face. I find by putting it on my eyelids and over my eyelids/lips, it makes my make-up stick better.

Generally, flappers were extremely pale. So if you're already pale, like I am, you'll probably be good with what foundation you already use. If you have darker skin tones, it's not a problem! Don't try to go for a super pale face with the rest of your skin being darker, I think this make-up will look beautiful and dramatic on any skin tone!

Note: I have rosy cheeks naturally. If you tend to have to wear blush, you can also apply a light amount to the apple of your cheeks if you prefer the look! 

Step 2: The Eyeliner

This step is also pretty easy. Take the black eyeliner, and apply it generously entirely around your eye. I use Rimmel's Exaggerate Automatic Waterproof Eye Definer in black (it's the twist version, with the sponge at the other end). If you have liquid eyeliner, you might want to use this instead, because after this eyeliner, I apply, using the angle brush, that cream eye liner for a darker look! 

The first picture is with the Rimmel eyeliner, the second is using the Graftobian. You can see the difference!

Step 3: The Eyelids

This is where the angles and the detail comes in a little more. There are a few options when using this step. I chose to use the Graftobian & angle brush, smudging with the end of my Rimmel eyeliner. You can choose to use pressed powder and a brush OR your regular black eyeliner and a make-up sponge--Play around with it, find what works best for you! Just remember, you want it dark and dramatic.

Using whatever items work for you, you want to start applying to your eyelids. You want to emphasize in specifically two places: the crease of your eye, and the deep inner section under your eyebrow (see below for what I mean!) You still want to apply a smaller amount to the eyelid itself, but you want it to be much darker in these two areas.

You also want to take care with the space between the crease angle you create, and your eyebrow. You want to leave this untouched by the black, because later it will make your look more dramatic. You can choose to add a light highlight there if you'd like!

Here is the finished lid look from the front. When applying to the inner eye, feel free to go up onto the bridge of your nose now, this will help when doing your brows later.

Step 4: The Beginnings of the Brows

Back to another quick an easy step! Using the angle brush and cream liner, or just your regular liner (the sharper the better at this point) you want to start shaping your brows. You can be a bit messy at this point, you're going to soften them up! You don't want too much of an angle in the brows, but you don't want them straight. I find it's easiest to just follow your natural eyebrow shape.

Note: I'm going for an early 1920's look. In the early 20's, women would thicken their brows for more expression and drama. Nearer to the 30's, they were much thinner. I find the thicker brows are a lot easier than trying to achieve the pencil-thin brows.

Step 5: The Finished Brows

I made these two steps, because it's a bit easier to break up! Now, using the thicker shape you've made, you want to go in with your smudge stick (or make up sponge, your choice!) and begin to soften the lines. If you're unhappy with the shape, keep working until you're happy with them. I prefer making the thicker part of my brow almost completely straight (as in completely horizontal) then, in the natural bend of my brows, I begin to follow that. You don't want to have any sharp angles, you want them as soft as possible.

Once you're happy with the size and shape, take a sharp eyeliner, or your angle brush, and extend your brow about an inch or two past your eye using the same angle you have going already (thats why you don't want too harsh of an angle, or the extension will be going down onto your cheek!) This is another key part of the 1920's look.

Congratulations! Your eyes are done!

Step 6: The Lipliner (optional) 

You're almost finished now!

The lipliner is only optional if you don't really care about the shape of your lipstick. If you just want to follow your natural lips, go for it! I also find, with a dark red, it really helps you not mess up haha! I don't change the shape of my lips that much, but I do like the fact it helps me get a clean lip look.

I begin with making three dots on my upper lip, the two peaks and my cupids bow. Then I draw a soft line at the bottom of my bottom lip. From there, you just connect the dots. 

Step 7: Finalize the Lips

This is the easiest step if you've ever applied lipstick before, haha! You literally just put the lipstick on your lips. I chose Rimmel's Moisture Renew, in Burgandy Delight. It's a beautiful deep red, I love it! 

Step 8: Setting Powder (Optional)

The setting powder is completely optional. I only recommend this if you're planning on going out dancing or partying like a crazy person! It's colourless powder that you put over your make up and it will stop it from smudging! If you're just going to a relaxing party, you probably will not need this, it's only for those party animals!

The After (with wig!)

Hope you enjoyed my very first make up tutorial -- HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

-- Rebekah Eden.

Cowboys & Indians

About a week and a half ago I got myself two new tattoos to by growing collection. My best friend, Riley, came to keep me company while I went under the needle. To my surprise, she showed up in a pair of cowboy boots she had gotten from her trip from Texas about 6 months ago. She had on a pair of jean shorts, a white t-shirt with a small amount of floral embellishment, and a bright scarf. I thought this was a great representation of the newest cowboy craze without using too much of the dull colours which you usually see.

Another great thing we had discussed ever since seeing them at H&M, are ponchos. They are something I thought I would never wear ever. Ever. But the more I see them  at the store, the more I find myself liking them! Riley has sworn that the moment it's on sale, it will be her's. I support this decision.

So when I came to think about what my next blog post would be about, I thought of Riley, and new that she would be the inspiration for this post. Here are some cowgirl-esque outfits inspired by her!

The Poncho

Poncho, Jeans, Boots, Bracelet, Purse, Necklace

Country Meets City

Dress, Shoes, Clutch, Bracelet, Necklace, Ring

Psychedelic Cowgirl

Dress, Boots, Purse, Necklace, Hat, Bracelet

Thank you Riley for the touch of country fun! 

Enjoy~

Rebekah Eden.

Punk Rock

One trend I have always been fond of since my days of wearing too much black has been adding a touch (or a ton) of punk to an outfit. I was pleasantly surprised when this Spring/Summer trend popped up. I've always been a big fan of Balmain since I found them. They've always been a little rock and roll, but this season they added a lot of punk to their collection, along with many other designers.

The best piece of punk that everyone can rock, in my opinion, is a leather studded jacket. These things are probably one of the best investments you can make. Personally leather is too expensive, but even leatherette can be just as good of an investment in your wardrobe. Studded jackets can last a very long time, and the nice thing is if they get roughed up, they still look good. It gives them character. Other great reasons to get one (or two!) of these jackets are that they're rain proof, and you can layer them to wear them in a lot of different weather; and, depending on the colour, they match pretty much anything. You can throw it on and rock it anytime!

Many of my favourite people in the fashion world have always embraced this trend, wearing it in so many different ways. Two of my favourite models (and icons), Freja Beha and Daisy Lowe, both know how to wear a studded jacket.

For Freja, it's almost an every day thing. She dresses simply, but shows how a leather jacket can add a bit of punk flare to a pair of jeans.

Photo: The Fashion Spot

Daisy wears her studded jacket quite often as well, but she loves to pair her's with a flowery dress.

Photo: The Fashion Spot

So enough about how everyone else wears these amazing jackets--the question is, how can you wear them? And the better question is, how can we afford them?

Leather jackets can be expensive, adding studs make them even more money. If you have the funds, my suggestion is to invest in one that is not overly expensive but more than what you might spend on a jacket. However, that's not why I'm here. I'm not here to tell you to spend a lot of money. To be honest, I might not even take that advice because I'm indecisive about what I wear. I would rather get a few different leatherette, suede or denim jackets for the same price as one and have more choices.

I was able to find a few cheap options for those of you who may not have the funds to afford something that's upwards of $200-300.

(From top left to bottom right) Studded Trench, Moto Jacket, Leatherette Jacket

Motorcycle Jacket, Copper Jacket, Grey Studded Jacket

All the jackets above are about $100 or less, which I think is pretty acceptable for leatherette jackets. Here are some tips from finding your perfect inexpensive leather jacket: 

1. Check thrift stores first.
   I know what you're thinking: Why is this first on the list? Well, I'm a HUGE believer in thrift stores and always have been. Once you get past the fast someone else has worn the clothing, you are left with some really amazing or interesting pieces you might not be able to find for ages. I say check here for leather jackets first because you will most likely be able to find a few interesting choices (colours, leather types, styles) without spending very much money. Another plus is leather jackets generally look better after being worn. By going straight to the used jackets, you get that worn character right away!
   
   
2. Shop around.
   Don't go with the first jacket you see just because it's a good price or looks good. Leather jackets go in and out of style (especially in the fall) so make sure to check many different stores so you can find your best fit and price.
   
   
3. Buy the right size.
   The right size for leather(ette) jackets is something that you will be able to fit a sweater under, or at least that's what I believe. Leather can be worn almost all year round if you can put a warm sweater underneath. Personally, I think something is a better bargain when I can get more use out of it. However, if you have to go a bit too big, or snug, go with snug. Leather, or faux leather, tends to stretch a little after a few wears, so too big might become way too big after a couple of times wearing it.
   
   
4. Buy one that fits your style
   I know, I know, this whole thing is about trying these out and I know these don't fit into everyone's style easily. All I mean is if you're going to try it, try to make it match your personal style as best as possible. For instance, if you're a more comfortable, relaxed person, stick with something neutral and perhaps without studs. On the other hand, if you're a wild child who will wear anything under the sun, go for something with more character (or buy a few in cool colours) so that it fits. I say this because if it matches your wardrobe, you get more use out of it.
   
   

That's it that's all--Let's get to the fun stuff.

Finally, here is a few ways I would wear these kick-ass studded jackets.

City Studs

Jeans, Leather Jacket, Tie-Front Shirt, Moto Boots, Knapsack, Gold Ring, Turquoise Ring

Leather & Lace

Lace Dress, Grey Leather Jacket, Leather Fringe Necklace, Bracelet, Boots, Postal Clutch, Diamond Ring, Black Ring

Wild Ride

Studded Trench, Denim Shirt, Wild Leggings, Sandals, Tassel Purse

(Both the ring and the earrings I believe are from Forever21, but no longer in stock)

So I've hope you've enjoyed my little detour through punk-rock village. I really hope this inspires you to rock a nice leather studded jacket on a cold summers night and then carry on the trend year round! It's a great way to bring a little edge to any outfit, so don't be afraid to give it a shot.

Rebekah Eden.