Spring 2012 Beauty Must-Haves

Although I am often mesmerized by glowing alabaster complexions, I prefer a sun-kissed look for myself. The St. Tropez Gradual Tan Lotion (available at  Sephora ) is by far my favourite self-tanner to use. For one, it’s gradual, so even if my application is sloppy and imprecise, it doesn’t show.  The colour I achieve is very convincing. The ‘fake tan’ smell is there, but it’s a lot more subtle then most self tanners.

Black liner is a year round must-have item for me. The Triple Threat Tattoo Liners from Kat Von D (available at Sephora) have three different tips so you can achieve different looks. Perfect set to help you re-create the modern cat eye looks that were seen on the runway.

(Image Credit: Harper’s Bazaar)

Bobbi Brown’s Ultra Nude Eye Palette is perfect for a natural spring time look or an elegant and polished look. It’s small and slim, so you can just throw it in your clutch. The dual ended brush is an added bonus.

I came across Chanel’s Distraction on another blogger’s site, and I instantly feel in love. It’s not in my possession yet (just placed an order for it via Nordstrom today!!) but I know I’m going to love it. ❤

I’ve been using the Aqua Mirabilis from Lush for a few years, and I adore it. The ground almonds exfoliate my skin. The combination of almond and cocoa butter leaves my skin feeling silky smooth. No need to slather lotion on after using this in the shower. ** Please do not use this body butter if you are allergic to nuts.

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current obsession: EABurns

[Image source Boticca]

This collection is way too cool not to share. The combination of neon colours, geometric shapes and spikes is making my heart race. Designer Lizzie, is based in London, England (obviously! All great things come from the UK).  Pieces are made using scrap leather destined for the garbage bin.

shop talk: kind exchange

Kind Exchange 611 Queen Street West ♠ 647.349.5463 ♠ www.kindexchange.ca

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Courtney Callahan to talk shop. Here’s the scoop.

The Place: In October 2011, Jeffrey Wexler and Courtney Callahan, a boyfriend/girlfriend team (who live above the store) opened Kind Exchange after moving to Toronto from Chicago. Jeffrey, a Toronto native,  has been working in the re-sale industry for over 10 years , while Courtney’s background before Kind Exchange was in selling wine. “It’s a total departure for me, but so far so good,” she says. The store is a treasure trove for budget conscious fashionistas offering an assorted inventory that is reflective of its vibrant location.  The store also strives to give back to the community by offering a “Skip-A-Bag” program, which encourages people to bring in their own reusable bags. This option is both environmentally friendly and charitable, as they match the bag cost and make a 10 cent donation to one of the three charities they are working with.

shop talk: haute classics

Haute Classics ** New location: 1454 Yonge St.**   ♠ 416.922.7900 ♠ www.hauteclassics.com

Images taken at previous location: 946 Yonge Street

I had the pleasure of chatting with Jina Han, co-founder of Haute Classics, and Erika Hrycun, the store’s manager. As I walked through the door I honestly felt like I was entering a celebrity’s closet. I should clarify: I’m talking about a chic celebrity, think Victoria Beckham, not Ke$ha.  Here’s the scoop.