10 Ways To Wear Your Denim This Summer

As an avid lover of denim, I'm a firm believer that you can go every day of your life with one piece of denim in your outfit and not get bored. Call me Canadian, but I'm a huge fan of the large amount of variations on this multi-seasonal look that never goes out of style. Denim has been a closet staple since the 1980s with icons like Jane Birkin and Kate Moss owning this look time and time again. You can dress it up and dress it down. You can wrap it around your waist or even on your head. Denim is the most versatile fabric on the market and I'm eager to try every version of it that I can. Here are ten ways you can wear it this summer.

NUMBER 10

As A Skirt

At Chloe, the button-front jean skirt made a star appearance and I have been in love ever since. With Normcore being the norm this year, jean skirts are back from the grave and a fashion staple no less.

Chloe S/S 2015 - style.com

NUMBER 9

With More Denim

Take it from Olivia Palermo, the Canadian tuxedo is one to try this summer. Whoever thought you could wear too much denim never wore it like a fashion girl.

via bloglovin.com

NUMBER 8

As Cutoffs

With festival season in our midst, denim cutoffs are a closet must. Warm weather demands that they be worn so wear them like you're 16 again.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 7

As Boyfriend Jeans

Skinny jean who? With skinny jeans slowly easing out of the picture, baggy ripped boyfriend jeans are the new trend of the moment that's capturing everyone's attention. Are you ready to give it a shot?

via popsugar.com

NUMBER 6

As Overalls

Summer is the perfect time to release your inner child and with the latest news that Full House is returning as "Fuller House" on Netflix, overalls couldn't be more relevant.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 5

With 70s Flair

Since the boho look has resurfaced, so has the wide leg. Best worn with a sky high wedge, are you gutsy enough to try this look?

via glamradar.com

NUMBER 4

As A Dress

A jean dress is the perfect summer look because all you have to do is slip it on and you're ready to go. Whether you choose to wear it with your crisp new sneakers or a pair of wedges, that's your choice. Either way, when it comes to denim, anything goes.

via luckymag.com

NUMBER 3

As A Jacket

A jean jacket is the ideal closet staple for those breezy summer nights. It's casual and put together without taking away from your outfit.

via wwd.com

NUMBER 2

With Embellishment

Are you bold enough to wear embellished jeans? Seen at Dolce & Gabbana and Ashish, this look was a major crowd pleaser on the Spring 2015 runways.

Dolce & Gabbana S/S 15 - sophiazchoice.tumblr.com

NUMBER 1

All Patched Up

Who needs uniform denim anyway?

MM6 Maison Martin Margiela - style.com

Which one will you be wearing this season?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

The Coachella Prep List

Coachella is just around the corner and of course, you have no idea what to wear. Lucky for you, the 70s are trending like crazy right now and nothing says Coachella better than your favourite hippie skirt. I know what you're thinking. Coachella is for celebrities and famous children, not you. What you don't know is that H&M has a Coachella collection dedicated to those of us who are fantasizing about the upcoming music festival and preparing our summer wardrobe accordingly. So you may not be attending this Hollywood extravaganza where fringes are favoured to sequins, but these trends still apply to you if you're planning on hitting the streets this summer for any social event. In honour of Coachella, I've prepared a list of trends to help you stock up your wardrobe and make you Coachella-ready for this 70s-inspired summer.

Here is what you need.

A Wide Brim Hat

I cannot stress enough the importance of a wide brim hat this season. For those of you who aren't inclined towards head attire, it's time to flip the switch and go for something bold. Nothing makes a statement better than something you would have never been caught dead in back in 2014.

via nymag.com

Something Fringy

In case you hadn't heard, fringe is the new black, ladies and gents. Whether on your handbag, the bottom of your skirt, or the rim of your crop top, fringe is everywhere and I simply can't get enough of it. Coachella may have not happened yet, but I can guarantee that fringe will make a star appearance on a number of celebs. If there's any trend you need to try this season, it's definitely this one.

via thezoereport.com

Cutoff Shorts

It isn't Coachella without a pair of inappropriately short cut off denim shorts. If you're not sure you're ready for high waisted flowy pants just yet, an easier option is a pair of jean shorts that you'll probably wear all summer long. In other words, it may be your best investment.

via shopdailychic.com

Cowboy Boots

This may be the only time in your life where short shorts and cowboy boots are quasi appropriate. Conjure your inner Daisy Duke with a pair of suede booties that are purely #forthesakeoffashion because frankly, boots in L.A are never necessary. Add some fringe and you're right on trend.

via socialbliss.com

Big Shades

The sun is finally out and it is time to take out those funky shades. Coachella is a festival that celebrates the return of the sunshine with statement-making eye wear. Whether aviators or the latest round trend, pull out your festival best because this is the only time sunglasses are an essential accessory.

via vogue.com

A Statement Piece of Metallic Jewellery (Or Five)

When it comes to your Coachella jewels, more is more. It's time to tack on as many metallic pieces as you can whether stacked on your wrists or around your neck. Get out your best hippie jewellery and get ready to make some music with your bling.

via reoria.com

 Flowers or Florals

Whether worn in your hair or as a print on your dress, flowers are a must at Coachella. It's the festival that celebrates the start of spring and nothing says spring better than flowers blooming. Also, flowers are a symbol of nature and everyone knows that a true hippie lives for the natural landscape.

via glamradar.com

Your Best Pair of Hippie Pants

What are hippie pants, you ask? Anything that provides all the breathing room you need to compensate for the constricting skinny jeans you're been wearing all winter. The flowier and wide the leg, the better. If you want to make a real statement? Get them in a bold print.

via elle.com

A Cross-Body Bag

If you're going to spend the entire day at a festival, your best friend is your cross-body bag. Who wants to carry a heavy purse when partying with your friends? Since cross-body bags are hands-free, there's no better way to ensure that you're a free spirit this festival season.

via en.louloumagazine.com

Your Best Friend

And the best accessory to try this season at Coachella? Your best friend. A group of well-dressed ladies attending the festival is guaranteed to attract some looks. Also, nothing is more fun than a party with your BFF a la model-off-duty.

via whowhatwear.com

Are you ready for Coachella? What will you be wearing?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

My Latest Spring Trendsessions

With spring just around the corner (sort of), all I can think about is procuring myself a new spring wardrobe. It may be Fall Fashion Month, but all I can think about is crop tops, mini skirts, and pretty floral dresses. Every spring, I like to refresh my wardrobe and explore trends I never would've tried a year earlier. There's something about the rising temperatures that makes me feel experimental. In honour of the approaching season, I have decided to make a list of my spring trend obsessions (otherwise known as trendsessions). Perhaps I can inspire you to take a risk this season or enlighten you on what's to come. Here's my top 10.

NUMBER 10: CULOTTES

The Trend Short Girls Secretly Fear And Want To Try Simultaneously

A marriage between capri pants and a skirt, culottes have been on the rise for quite some time and continue to rise on the trend scale. For some of us, this look is our irrational fear, while for others, it's so much more fun than a midi skirt. This season, it's time to wash away that fear and try a culotte with a killer pair of high heels. I'm on a mission to prove that short girls can wear anything with the right pair of shoes and this is my first destination.

via lefashionimage.blogspot.com

NUMBER 9: YELLOW
The Colour Trend We Think Is Unflattering, But Is Actually The Best
Throughout my life, I have considered yellow to be that ugly undefinable colour that I would absolutely never wear. I was trained by short stories like Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper" to believe that yellow is a repulsive hue that can drive one to insanity. This past year, I have warmed up to the colour by conjuring positive image associations such as that sunshine we've all been waiting for. Here's to yellow being the colour of the season.

via harpersbazaar.com

NUMBER 8: KNEE-HIGH GLADIATORS
The Trend That Creates Awkward Tan Lines, But Looks Badass
The knee-high gladiator sandal is summer's equivalent to the thigh-high suede boot. It's the epitome of edgy chic and only a true gladiator can pull it off. While a slip-on sandal may be an easier trend to wrap our heads around, knee-high gladiators are bold statement makers for women who are fearless. Are you ready to be fierce this spring? If so, this may be the trend for you.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 7: SKIRTS OVER PANTS
The Trend We All Secretly Wish We Could Pull Off
Ever since this look made it on the runway, the boldest fashionistas have been exploring it on the streets and inspiring us all to try it ourselves. This may have once been a fashion faux-pas, but in a world where anything goes, it's time to say "why not?". Nothing breaks gender boundaries like wearing pants and a skirt at the same time, and if we could layer on top, who says we can't do it on the bottom as well?

via thefashionmedley.com

NUMBER 6: WIDE BRIM HATS
The Trend That Turns Heads When You Walk Into A Room
Hats are one of the most underrated fashion accessories that exists and in my humble opinion, people don't wear them nearly enough. Though many are inclined to explore a more subtle look when it comes to hats (such as a beanie or beret), wide brim hats are making a major comeback and I'm hoping they'll transfer onto the streets of average-ville. If this does not occur, set yourself apart by being the gutsiest girl in the room.

via thehunt.com

NUMBER 5: HIGH-WAISTED PANTS
The Trend That Isn't Ready To Disappear Just Yet
While low-rise may have been cool in the Britney Spears era, high-waisted pants have returned and evidently, they are here to stay. Whether worn as 90s Mom jeans or with a 70s flared leg, high-waisted pants are universally flattering and elongate the legs, offering everyone the chance to look like a model (sort of). Whether you're a fan or not, this might be a trend to consider because it's been around for a while and it's one of the least risky in the trend pool.

via harpersbazaar.com

NUMBER 4: DENIM ON DENIM
The Trend That Probably Shouldn't Be Legal, But What The Heck
There is nothing I love more than my denim collection. As a big fan of jeans, the trend I aspire to try this spring is the "Canadian Tuxedo", otherwise known as denim on denim. As a Canadian, I'm ashamed to say I have not worn this look nearly enough and feel inclined to explore it further to showcase my patriotism towards my home and native land. Cheers!

via pinkpeonies.com

NUMBER 3: PLATFORM SHOES
The Trend That Truly Takes You Higher
When it comes to platforms, my mantra is "the higher, the better". After seeing this look at Tom Ford last season, I fell head-over-heels for these darling high heels. For short girls, it's a gift sent from heaven to make us feel loved by an industry that honours statuesque women. It's fun, it's playful, and it's a little bit rock n' roll. Also, it's comfortable. Can you ask for anything more from a heel? Doubtful.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 2: BRODERIE ANGLAISE
The Trend That Makes You Feel Like A Little Girl Again
Every once in a while, I get that urge to go full-out girly with my look. My latest trend obsession, broderie anglaise, allows me to achieve exactly that. Whether in the form of an LWD or simply a boho blouse, this look has been all over fashion week at shows like Giamba and Valentino. So if you're ready to get girly, it's time to try this trend stat.

via whatthechung.com

NUMBER 1: FRINGE
The Trend EVERYONE From Tom To Jerry Is Talking About
If you haven't heard about fringe being the latest trend to excite the nation, you've been living under a very unfashionable rock. Whether on a skirt, a top, or a dress, fringe is all the rage and it isn't only reserved for Coachella anymore. If there's one trend you should be trying this season, it's definitely this one. If you don't, you'll be missing out on all the spinning fun.

via aloveisblind.com

Which of these spring 2015 trends is your favourite? Are you ready to be bold?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

What Does Your Denim Say About You?

Based on your choice of jeans, many conclusions can be drawn. Due to the large variety that exists on the market, we're prone to experimenting with an abundance of choice, but in reality, we all have that favourite pair that makes us feel (our butt look) like a million bucks. Which one is that for you? Take your pick and learn a bit more about yourself in the process.

BOYFRIEND JEANS

In every aspect of your life, you strive for comfort. Whether in terms of the shoes you wear or the places you frequent, you love those cozy months where you get to snuggle up to your favourite pieces from that massive wardrobe of yours. You like a boyfriend jean because it almost feels like you're wearing sweatpants without looking like a mess headed to the gym. Score. These jeans indicate that you're a free spirit with a tomboy attitude. Your easygoing nature attracts people to your circle and your infectious laugh makes everyone want to be your best friend. Stress is just not in your vocabulary.

Dominant Traits: Boyish, Easy-Going, Calm

Celebrities who've worn this trend:  Emma Stone, Jennifer Aniston, Sienna Miller

via mija.creatorsofdesire.com

SKINNY JEANS

Though some may say you're a conventional gal, you prefer to call yourself a trendy fashionista. You feel most at ease in a skinny jean because it is undeniably the most flattering look on your body. You know you can wear it with everything in your closet and you're a practical woman, so you'll buy this style in every colour that exists. You like classic pieces like pearls and LBD's, but you also strive to look sexy at every occasion. You have an abundance of friends in your surroundings because of your outgoing personality and draw people in like a magnet, or a tight pair of pants. Everyone wants to be you because of your projected confidence and put-together aura.

Dominant Traits: Classy, Sophisticated, Mature

Celebrities who've worn this trend: Miranda Kerr, Jessica Alba, Olivia Palermo

via sty.lk

FLARED LEG

You're a 70's diva at heart and live for that flared leg pair of jeans in your closet. Nothing says fashionista like this unconventional look not suited for the faint of heart. You live in your high heels and radiate confidence with every step. You're flirtatious by nature and the fun girl in your group of friends. You're up for anything and always down for a party. You're that loveable girl that everyone can rely on to be in a good mood at all times. Some would call you a bundle of energy with a slightly mischievous edge, but you're not big on labels.

Dominant Traits: Confident, Wild, Happy 

Celebrities who've worn this trend: Victoria Beckham, Rachel Zoe, Karlie Kloss

via naimabarcelona.tumblr.com

HIGH-WAISTED DENIM

You're a little bit old school when it comes to your denim. In fact, the more worn in it is, the better. Some would call you an artist because of your effortless style and natural ease with fashion. You love clothing that defines your waist and creates physical illusions that elongate your body. While it may be the latest trend, you've been wearing this look since 1995. Your love of fashion knows no limits as you enjoy deriving inspiration from everywhere. You have a reserved personality, but enjoy intellectual conversation. You've been told you're better one-on-one than in large crowds and that suits you just fine.

Dominant Traits: Demure, Edgy, Artistic
Celebrities who've worn this trend: Leandra Medine (Man Repeller), Alexa Chung, Ariana Grande

via jaglever.com

DISTRESSED DENIM

You love it when your denim is in distress because you're a little bit on the crazy side yourself. Some people would call you clumsy, but in your mind, you're merely fast-paced. You were that kid who constantly fell on her face and lifted herself up again in pre-school. You have a determined spirit and strong character with great ambitions, but people tend to underestimate you. You may project one image, but there's a hidden person behind that exterior. Nobody can cross you because you know how to fight your battles and you always win because of your fruitless obstinacy. Nobody gets in your way because you're a born leader, but you also have a sensitive side that nobody sees unless they're very close to you.

Dominant Traits: Powerful, Leader, Strong
Celebrities who've worn this trend: Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, Rita Ora

via whowhatwear.com

Which one is your favourite?

P.S All descriptions have been invented by me.

Ponder it...

XOXO,

Bella

#IconCity: Feeling British With Alexa Chung

Alexa Chung belongs in IconCity because it is undeniable that she has become a fashion icon. Representing British hipster style, the girl always stays true to herself no matter what she's wearing. After her recent collaboration with AG denim, we can finally consider her the queen of the Canadian tuxedo. For her quirky sense of humour and quirky style to match, we can't get enough of her.

Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1

Nobody does the casual cool look quite like Alexa. Adding a wide rim burgundy fedora to her edgy outfit, we're all envious of her effortless style.

via www.vogue.co.uk

LOOK 2

Once again, Alexa looks totally boho chic in a floppy hat. With a turquoise fur coat and girly ballet flats, she keeps her look feminine and sophisticated.

via www.vogue.co.uk

LOOK 3

Queen of femininity, Alexa wears a flared skirt, peter pan collar, and some bow flats on a casual day out.

via on-thestreets.tumblr.com

LOOK 4

Though she is known for her adorable flats, Alexa also knows how to rock a heel. In these shiny black booties, sequinned midi skirt, and textured white peasant blouse, she proves that she knows how to mix and match. She also knows that the best accessory to any look is a Chanel clutch.

via www.instyle.co.uk

LOOK 5

Nobody rocks a pair of denim overalls like Alexa Chung. In fact, if it were a contest, she would win every time.

via eatsleepdenim.com

What do you think of Alexa Chung's looks? Which one is your favourite?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Uncommon Ways To Wear Your Denim

It's common knowledge that denim is a wardrobe staple. Unfortunately, that phrase has us all confused due to the large amount of denim styles that permeate the runways every season. Denim can refer to overalls if you're talking about the latest 90s trend to resurface. Denim could also mean classic blue jeans, but even that definition is foggy because we're not quite sure whether that means bootcut, skinny, or wide leg. What if denim is referring to a jean jacket? Would it be white washed, acid wash, or dark blue? What about coloured denim and ripped denim? What about the festival cutoffs? WHAT IS DENIM ANYWAY????????

Once upon a time, denim was a very simple term. We like to call those days "the days of the mom jeans" (which have mysteriously made a comeback). Today, denim is so diverse that our entire wardrobes can be comprised of denim. Isn't that wonderful?

Personally, I'm a big fan of denim. I can experiment for days. This season, denim has taken on new shapes and forms. Here are some of the ways to wear denim that make us all ask ourselves: should I or shouldn't I?

PATCHWORK DENIM

via brilliantdesign.wordpress.com

It looks like your average 3 year old's art project, but it kind of looks super cool on Joan Smalls. Am I as sexy as Joan Smalls? Can I pull off patchwork without looking like a homeless man? Ponder that...

OVERALLS

via thefrisky.com

They are just so darn CUTE on my little sister, but will I look like a child wearing them? Should this trend have stayed in the 90s? Will it turn me into a hipster? AM I a hipster?

TIE DYE DENIM

via allezboutique.com.br

Does this look like I did this at home? Is that a good thing? Did I accidentally mix them with other colours in the wash? Will people think I did?

DISTRESSED DENIM

via realstylenetwork.com

Will I look homeless? Will I look like the clumsiest person to hit this earth? Will people know I'm a badass and did this on purpose? Will I look like I have rage issues?

MOM JEANS

via modelinia.com

Do these make my ass look big? Do I look like I'm floating in momma's jeans? Should these have stayed in the 90s as well? Are they the most unflattering things I've ever seen? WHY AM I WEARING THEM?

I dare you to try one of these denim trends. Buy them at a cheap price if they scare you. If you feel like a model and wear them with confidence, you may actually stop the questions racing through your head and feel good in them. 

Happy Monday!

Bella

Why Basic T-Shirts Are Underrated

Hello Darlings,

I've fallen deeply and passionately in love with the t-shirt. We met when I was just a young girl and at the time, I didn't notice its value. I merely wore it because I didn't know what else to wear. As I grew older, I got sick of the basic t-shirt and decided to opt for the prettier blouse. It was much more appealing to a more mature me that had grown out of simple basics that reminded me of nights at the movies as a pre-teen. After a while, I noticed that the blouse lacked what the t-shirt had: comfort. As I've become an adult, my feelings for the t-shirt have resurfaced and while I continue to inspire myself with extravagant fashions, I still remain loyal to my trusty tee. 

Here are ten ways to wear the basic t-shirt that will make you fall in love just as I have.

Number 10

With a pencil skirt

For the chic fashion girl working at Vogue.

via enter-my-closet.tumblr.com

Number 9

With a blazer

For the sophisticated chick headed to a job interview.

via happilygrey.com

Number 8

With cutoffs

For the festival goer.

via inspirechictopia.tumblr.com

Number 7

With skinny jeans

For the relaxed girl.

via mutefashion.com

Number 6

With a maxi skirt

For the feminine princess.

via fashion.allwomenstalk.com

Number 5

As a dress

For the daring diva.

via devonrachel.com

Number 4

With a midi skirt

For the edgy lady.

Number 3

With a vest

For the trendsetter.

via WhoWhatWear

Number 2

With overalls

For the country girl.

Number 1

With a plaid shirt

For the 90s girl.

via lookastic.com

And that, my friends, is why the person who invented the basic t-shirt was a genius. All hail.

Bella