A Letter to Sleeping Bag Coats

Dearest Sleeping Bag Coat,

According to every fashion girl/model-off-duty/style blogger, you are a bit of an abomination. You counter everything I've spent all year working on by concealing my shapes, swallowing up my legs, and making me sweat underneath your excess weight. In reality, I should hate you. (Un)Fortunately, I don't. When push comes to shove, it's freezing outside. The arctic has hit Canada and like a comforting sip of hot chocolate, you make me feel warm and cozy inside and out. You're like a knight in shining armour, only slightly less shiny and much softer to the touch.

via elle.com

As much as I cringe at my reflection in the mirror or my impossible-to-fit-the-screen snapchat selfies, I still can't help but embrace you. You may not be a chic fourrure or as classy as wool, but you make me forget I live in the great white north for just a moment. You also make me feel like I haven't left my bed ALL DAY. And for that, I'm eternally grateful. As for your fashion value, some designers have chosen to let you in to their exclusive club (like Acne Studios, Balenciaga, and MSGM), while others have rejected you entirely. But a true fashion statement is prepared to accept and even welcome the rejection like a fashion faux-pas on a mission. Congratulations on being the most questionable winter staple and the most challenging one to love. Frankly, I still love you.

Happy winter,
Bella

The Face That Launched A Billion Likes Deleted Her Instagram

While we're all busy obsessing over the reign of Donald J. Trump, important things happen, like Kendall Jenner deleting her Instagram account. Now, let me tell you why this is news. First of all, September Vogue declared her the face that launched a billion likes. That's right. A billion. That was her selling point a mere two months ago. How times have changed. With so much bitterness pervading the atmosphere, she probably just needed a break from the world's most dire addiction - social media. If the first thing you do when you wake up and the last thing you do before you go to bed is check your Instagram, you probably do too.

via mirror.co.uk

Should we be worried? Will she disappear off the face of the earth? Must we now discredit Vogue? No, no, and never. However, we can take her example and maybe detox a little ourselves. In an interview with Ellen Degeneres, Kendall said something quite interesting about her life-changing decision. She told her that she finally had the chance to engage in real life. As much as we all love to indulge in the latest news stories like the much-anticipated Gilmore Girls revival, the Super Moon, and Melania's resting bitch face, sometimes it's important to just live our own lives for a moment. Maybe we'll actually get to read all the books Rory has read or watch the Super Moon from our bedroom window. Maybe we'll forget about Melania for just a minute and refrain from oversharing our opinions about her face. Or maybe not.

The real question I know you're all asking yourselves is: why does this even matter? Why is this a CNN-worthy event? Well maybe it's because we all desperately needed something a little silly to get our mind off the frightening things that are happening in the world. Yes, politics matter. But every once in a while, we just want to hear about a Kardashian breaking the Internet again. Is that really so bad?

Ponder that,

Bella

When the Stars Align

They say if you're a writer, never stop writing. Like every other skill it needs to be honed consistently to grow and improve. I took a break from blogging to regenerate and refocus.

Why am I writing this blog?
What is its purpose?
Is it worth it?

I may not have any concrete answers to any of those questions, but sometimes, ideas are enough. Occasionally, you need to let out your thoughts. Mine just happen to be about fashion. It seems my brain is on high fashion alert at all times, when I'm not thinking about the leaves on the trees, what to have for lunch, or the next book I'd like to read.

Today, I'm thinking about the article I just read regarding Scorpios who pursue fashion. Now, I'm no firm believer in astrological predictions, but I think there's something about our personalities that may be written in the stars. Am I anything like Anna Wintour (Vogue EIC) or Robbie Myers (Elle US EIC))? Probably not. But maybe we all have the potential to be.

I'd like to think that an article like that can inspire me to aim higher, to reach for the stars, simply because the stars are on my side. Sometimes the stars are super bright and clear in the darkness. Other times, they're a little more difficult to see. This may be one of those times. With the days getting shorter and the night becoming a more prominent part of our lives, maybe it's high time we pay attention to the stars. They could be trying to tell us something.

Starry Night - Van Gogh

Ponder that,

(More to come)
Bella

PS Check out the article here.

My Newfound Crop Top Addiction

After a one-month hiatus, I think it's time we engage in conversation again, shall we? Let's discuss one of my favourite summer trends this season (and the one before that and the one before that): crop tops. When this look resurfaced, I was a little on the fence. A deep V is one thing, but my midriff is something I never thought I'd be showing off anywhere but at the beach. Every season, I've tried wearing this look in a variety of ways. First, as a lover of high-waisted pants, I paired it with those and found it immensely practical and appealing. Subsequently, I went for the high-waisted skirt, while showing the least amount of midriff possible. Ultimately, I gave in by offering a slight peak at my midriff without bordering on vulgar.

via teenvogue.com

I've found that with every trend, it takes a few tries to get it right and make it feel like you. Whether a pair of oversized slides or a wide-brim hat, some things are always going to make a statement (especially in a conservative fashion environment), but if you own it, it'll just become a part of you.

That, my friends, is what happened to me and the crop top. After much deliberation, I've left a space for them in my closet (right before my regular sized tops) and they have become my friend. I now possess a full selection in a variety of neutrals and before long, I will have a few colours to add to the mix. Today, it's all I can buy and I can't seem to rework my regular tops.

As a petite person, a crop top is often more flattering than the regular kind. It elongates my torso and looks cute to boot. My recommendation is to slowly ease into it, especially if you're a little on the shorter side. If a reluctant person like myself can warm up to it, so can you. You may be surprised at how good it makes you feel.

Ponder it,

Bella

Who Dressed Best At Cannes?

I've never been so excited to conjure up a best-dressed list. You know why? Because Cannes is glamour, elegance, class, and little bit of rebellion personified. It's a place so classy that being dressed to the nines is a must (whether you're a regular person or a celebrity). Though they all have stylists, these celebs still deserve credit for rocking these beautiful looks. Even the ones who usually make odd red carpet choices looked drop-dead gorgeous at Cannes this year. I'm talking to you Anna Kendrick (though I love her anyway). Some women like Kristen Stewart, Blake Lively, and Kendall Jenner had a few rockstar looks at Cannes and one can only imagine the difficulty of selecting just one. However, I approached the task with fervour and I have come up with a list of mouth-watering, eye gaping, choices. Ready?

NUMBER 10

Naomi Watts in Armani Prive

 Although Naomi Watts always seems to be rocking the same strapless form-fitting Armani Prive look at every event, she consistently looks stellar doing it. This is a woman who knows her body and what works for her. Consequently, she is also always a best-dressed contender.

via tomandlorenzo.com

NUMBER 9

Barbara Palvin in Philosophy Di Lorenzo Serafini

Anyone who wears Philosophy is immediately on my best-dressed list. Barbara Palvin looks feminine, pretty, and super on trend in this pale pink ruffled gown. My girly side is beyond excited about it.

via barbarapalvinme.tumblr.com

NUMBER 8

Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen

Though Jessica Chastain looked stunning in her yellow Armani dress, this has to be my favourite. From the tassled waves to the embellished gown, Chastain is so 1920s chic with a mix of old Hollywood. I'm completely obsessed.

via justcurious.co.za

NUMBER 7
Karlie Kloss in Marchesa
If you're going to wear black, it better be va-va-voom. Take a hint from Karlie Kloss. THIS is how you rock black at Cannes.

via telegraph.co.uk

NUMBER 6

Jourdan Dunn in Ralph & Russo

Who doesn't look stunning in a full-skirted floor length gown? Obviously, Jourdan Dunn got it right in this beautiful Ralph & Russo that can't be described in any other way but dreamy. 

via eonline.com

HONOURABLE MENTION: Ruffled black Dsquared
I'm simply in love.

via telegraph.co.uk

NUMBER 5

Blake Lively in Vivienne Westwood

Apparently princess gowns were popular at Cannes this year. Though Blake Lively wore an abundance of beautiful gowns/jumpsuits that showcased her slight baby bump, I'm a sucker for a Cinderella dress. How can I resist those cake-like ruffles?

via nuevamujer.com

NUMBER 4

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Alexandre Vauthier Couture

Don't you want to swing around in that dress? I know I do. I think it's clear to see that red is Rosie's colour. Though she looks gorgeous in almost everything, she shines even brighter in red. Also, that flower at the neckline is simply perfect.

via eonline.com

NUMBER 3

Amal Clooney in Atelier Versace

Can Amal Clooney do any wrong on the red carpet? The answer you're looking for is no. Though this dress is simple, she looks like a greek goddess and the slit is the perfect way to showcase her super classy shoes (not shown here). Breathtaking.

via arabia.style.com

NUMBER 2

Kendall Jenner in Cavalli Couture

This has got to be my favourite naked dress of all time (and there have been many). There is so little going on here yet so much at the same time. I'm not even sure how that's possible, but I'm flabbergasted. This is STUNNING (caps intended).

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 1

Bella Hadid in Cavalli Couture

Clearly, Cavalli won Cannes this year. I can't even imagine a more perfect dress on Bella Hadid. From the very expensive looking diamonds ornamenting her neck to this body-hugging gown, this look is red carpet gold.

via eonline.com

Which look was your favourite this year at Cannes?

Ponder it,

Bella

Are Hoodies Even Fashion?

Due to streetwear brands like Hood by Air and Vetements, the fashion world can't get enough of the "stoner staple" otherwise known as the hoodie. I can't help but wonder, why?????

While fluffy coats project glamour, bombers are sport chic, and leather jackets are edgy as hell, hoodies are just plain, well, plain. Hoodies are what you wore back in high school gym class because it matched your sweatpants. Hoodies are what you bought after college to wear to bed with your school's colours and logo. Hoodies are what your boyfriend lent you during a long walk on a cold spring night. Hoodies are NOT a fashion staple.

Or are they?

Perhaps I'm being a bit harsh. Fashion has embraced the sneaker, particularly the Adidas Originals and Stan Smiths, and well, Adidas makes hoodies too so by logical deduction...The magazines can't stop talking about getting fit and athleisure, the most popular streetwear trend that transformed your gym wear into day-to-day attire. But, hoodies? Is it the next cool thing that we borrow from the boys or simply a sign we've just given up on getting dressed in the morning? Can a hoodie ever be chic?

Unless you're Kanye West, probably not.

It takes a certain type of person to rock a hoodie like a fashion girl/boy and though the S/S 16 runways have welcomed this newcomer with open arms, it hasn't quite swayed me yet.

HOWEVER, I do admit that a true pro can transform it and potentially, it can become a "fashion". If you're thinking of wearing it with your Roots sweatpants, think again.

How did slides become fashion? How did pyjamas become fashion? All it took was one fashionista to reinvent it. Perhaps sweatpants and a hoodie are not fashion, but maybe if you wore it with your fitted midi skirt? Or perhaps a pair of leather pants? 

Like anything else, the way to break into fashion is by breaking the rules, altering the norms, and mixing and matching in a way nobody thought possible. In that case, bring on the hoodie. Who knows? It may become my next closet staple.

Ponder it,

Bella

Who Was Best Dressed at the Met Gala? Literally, Everyone

Welcome to the Met Gala (aka the most exclusive event of the year, aka the Super Bowl of fashion), where anyone who's in Anna Wintour's good books receives the honour to attend and impress in some breathtaking dress that will hopefully appear on some elite best-dressed list. This year's theme: Manus x Machina : Fashion in an Age of Technology. It seems appropriate considering the surge of technology in the fashion world, whether with the Apple watch's collab with Hermes or the abundance of wearables all over the runway. Some celebs went for a metallic look to project their perception of the tech theme, namely Brie Larson, Taylor Swift, and Poppy Delevingne. A few opted for the ever-popular naked dress, such as Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Rita Ora. The Haim sisters looked stellar in matching lace Rodarte and Emma Watson returned wearing pants under a dress once again, though this time, it was Calvin over Dior. I'd say Zoe Saldana was definitely the Rihanna of the evening in a bold feathered gown by Dolce & Gabbana, but Sarah Jessica Parker left us wide eyed as well for other reasons. She may have to take tips from Emma Watson on how to wear pants to a red carpet event...It was a very difficult list to make, but alas I drew my conclusions and this is what I came up with. Are you ready?

NUMBER 10
Rose Byrne in Ralph Lauren Collection
This gold metallic gown looked beautiful on Rose Byrne with to-die-for ruffles at the neckline and along the slit. While she may have not been my best-dressed of the night, my soft spot for ruffles landed her number 10 on this list.

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 9

Zoe Saldana in Dolce and Gabbana
It's impossible not to include Zoe Saldana in a red carpet best dressed list. At the Met Gala this year, she was literally the human embodiment of a peacock with multi-coloured feathers all along her dress's endless train that made you wonder how she could possibly have gone to the bathroom. Though impractical, this gown definitely stopped everyone in their tracks.

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 8
Kate Hudson in Atelier Versace
Speaking of showstoppers, Kate Hudson wore quite the original dress at the met gala and it took me a while to decide whether I liked it or really hated it. Therefore, it needed to be on this list. The cutouts were less sexy than they were cool and somehow, that made it all look very high tech.

via eonline.com

NUMBER 7
Clare Danes in Zac Posen
Clare Danes showed up to the Met Gala as Cinderella and was the belle of the ball in baby blue Zac Posen. It may seem a little old school for a tech-themed event, but in fact, it glowed in the dark. Sigh.

via popsugar.com

NUMBER 6
Naomi Watts in Burberry
I love Naomi Watts. She always manages to look classy and composed in looks that are unique, though a tad bit predictable. Regardless, she knows exactly what works for her and her confidence makes her radiate in every dress she wears (particularly the ones that sparkle).

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 5
Brie Larson in Proenza Schouler
Another lady showed up in a metallic dress last night and that was Brie Larson. Her ladylike ruffles juxtaposed with that strong metallic hue ensured that she stuck to the theme while also showcasing her femininity. I'm kind of obsessed.

via eonline.com

NUMBER 4
Blake Lively in Burberry
I don't know how she does it, but Blake Lively always looks like a goddess. In this blush pink Burberry gown, the actress looked regal and though I don't see the connection to the theme, I'm beyond in love with her choice.

via popsugar.com

NUMBER 3
Karolina Kurkova in Marchesa
So apparently this dress also glows in the dark. WHAT?! I was already blown away by those gorgeous white floral appliques, but when I found out this dress had other features, my jaw literally dropped. I have no words.

via eonline.com

NUMBER 2
Taylor Swift in Custom Louis Vuitton
Though some may not approve of Taytay's edgy transformation, Anna Wintour gave her the thumbs up and so do I. She kept it girly with a ruffled skirt, but rocked that black lipstick with a pair of strappy gladiator sandals (that may have won me over more than her dress). You better not have bad blood with this diva.

via heavy.com

NUMBER 1
Poppy Delevingne in Marchesa
When I saw this dress, my pupils dilated to double their size. It's like a flapper dress made for the future or one giant silver necklace that wraps around Poppy's boddy like it was made for her. Every detail of this dress proves the saying that diamonds are a girl's best friend.

via hollywoodlife.com

Which look was your favourite? Was it one of these or was it another look I missed? 

Ponder it,

Bella