Steals. Deals. Splurges.

Lifestyle for the average girl who dreams of living larger than she does. Based in Toronto/London, Canada. None of the bloggers are paid or sponsored by any of the companies featured.

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#BTS - Forever 21

Forever 21 is just one of those retailers I love going to for trying out new trends, because they pump out all this fast fashion items, which makes experimentation with style affordable. They have also have an amazing selection of accessories, while branching into the world of shoes and beauty products. Forever 21 is definitely a go to place to shop at for back to school and with a $200 budget, anyone could pick out almost an entire wardrobe, but these are the things I would get.

Counter clockwise from top centre:

Ribbed Knit Biker Jacket - $39.80

Need that one piece that you can throw on anything to look instantly put together? Everyone needs a jacket that they can just throw on without thinking about it that is versatile to go with everything and make everything look better. I think this jacket is it and at $39.80, the price is great. This moto jacket is in a light beige colour, which is a neutral and would go with anything. The zippers are a pretty simple detail that adds more visual interest. Where the zippers are placed would actually create a slimming effect, which helps you look put together.

Textured Knit Zipper Dress - $21.90

We all have heard about having that one little black dress that we can just throw on and go. We can dress it up and dress it down depending on what we need to wear it for. I think this dress is pretty basic, but has smaller details that makes it anything but ordinary. It has a back cutout, zippered pockets and a mini mock turtleneck. The cut is a little nod to the 60's and then to the 90's. I like how the dress has a texture, because it makes it have more visual interest and can be layered with other pieces to make it perfect for fall time. It's versatile enough to wear all year round too. I like how the neckline is pretty simple, which becomes a really nice canvas to for necklaces.

Batman Racerback Tank Top - $16.80

I think everyone needs a graphic tank top that they can just throw on and look laid back. I would choose a graphic tank that would be a conversation starter and has something I know something about so I could carry on a conversation about it, like a band or a superhero.

Easy Shredded Sweater - $23.80

Here's another basic that's anything but basic. On the front, it appears to be just another typical white long sleeve knitted sweater, but when you look at the back, there's a shredded detail, which makes the sweater look super edgy and cool. I think this sweater would be perfect for an all white ensemble or even with a black/white outfit.

Zippered Woven Joggers - $27.80

I think everyone needs a pair of pants that they can just throw on that's super comfortable and casual, yet still looks put together. This pair of pants has a sweatpant cut with a elasticized waistband, but the material makes it a little more dressed up and presentable. Throw on any top you want and a leather jacket, and you instantly have a put together outfit without trying.

Sleek Mascara - $3.80

As mentioned previously, Forever 21 has gotten into the world of beauty and a lot of their products have really cute packaging, like this mascara. I'm a sucker for packaging a lot of times, and how could I say no to a cat wand?

Eyes & Face Glow Kit - $17.80

They also make all kinds of beauty products and palettes to meet everyone's needs with a really good price point. This palette has almost everything one would need to create tons of different beauty looks. It comes in a zippered clutch case. It features 28 shadows, a bronzer, 4 highlighters, and an illuminizer. The palette also has tools, which makes it perfect to just throw into your bag for touch ups or when you're in a rush and need to create a look on the run.

Heavy Metal Baseball Cap - $12.80

For a sporty look with edge and street cred, I was instantly drawn to this snapback cap. It's a versatile black snapback that features a silver metal plate on the lid with screws. Simple, yet attention grabbing.

Spinal Ear Cuffs - $3.80

Don't have cartilage piercings but want to get into the whole ear cuff look? This pair of ear cuffs will do the trick. You can just clip them on for a bold look with a pretty simple design. I think it just adds a little bit of an unexpected edge to any look.

Cutout Geo Ring Set - $7.80

These rings are geometric, which adds a little bit of an artistic flare and a little bit of edge to any outfit. I think they would look great as rings to stack with each other or other more dainty rings or to just be bold on their own. I like how they come in different metal finishes too, since mixed metals is a huge trend right now.

Total: $39.80 + $21.90 + $16.80 + $23.80 + $27.80 + $3.80 + $17.80 + $12.80 + $3.80 + $7.80 = $176.10 + tax = $198.99

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#BTS - Smart Set

Not only being affordable and stylish, Smart Set offers styles that would work for a huge range of ages from being in school to being at work. From being a teenager to being a mom. They are stocked up to the rim with pieces that will last and you can wear them years to come. They're trendy for now, but they will test time so you can wear them years to come. This makes them an ideal store for me to go to for back to school shopping. With $200, this is what I would get.

From top left to bottom left, then top right to bottom right:

Lace Sleeve Top - $25.90

Looking super basic, I like how this V-neck sleeveless T features a high-low hem, which gives it this youthful look that can be worn with any bottom you'd like. I like how it features an unexpected and dainty lace detail along the sleeves/armholes, which makes it feminine. The colour is also perfect for fall and winter, but I think the overall style and colour can still be thrown into the mix for spring and summer. It can be dressed up and dressed down, making it super versatile.

Mesh Top with Bustier - $35.90

This really cute number hits on the sheer trend, while having the peplum shape that is a trend that swings back and forth but seems to always be lurking around anyways, because it flatters any body shape. I like how the sheer meshing has cute little polka dots on it. The top is pretty feminine, but on the back there's a little bit of edge with the exposed and functional zipper. I would totally dress this up and down to make edgier looking outfits than ultra feminine, but you can swing between the two if you'd like.

Plaid Sweater - $39.90

Bold prints. Ode to the 60's with its mod shape 80's with its bold red and black plaid print. Hello punk era from Britain. This statement sweater draws in the eye and keeps it on you. It is bold, but you can also tone it down with layering pieces. The longer hem means it's perfect to be worn with leggings, and leggings slip right into boots with no problems.

Bird of Paradise Statement Necklace - $19.90

For a little glitz and glamour to throw into the mix and add a little pizzazz to any outfit, I picked out this necklace, because it has an unexpected shape to it. Every time we see statement necklaces we often see symmetry. I like how this necklace is still balanced on both sides but sweeps to one side to make it asymmetrical. It also features grey, clear, and white stones on it, which makes it super versatile and I think would great with any outfit with a lot of colour.

Tweed Jogger Pant - $49.90

No one wants to look like they're trying to hard. Everyone wants to look effortlessly put together. Although these pants are very relaxed and casual 

Total: $25.90 + $35.90 + $39.90 + $19.90 + $49.90 = $171.50 + tax = $193.80

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#BTS - Dynamite

When it comes to Canadian brand Dynamite, I think of classic pieces mixed up with cooler and more modern designs that can keep any wardrobe looking fresh. Their price range is also quite affordable relative speaking to a lot of other stores that hold similar items. With school coming around the corner and a hypothetical $200 budget to spend at Dynamite, these are the items I would pick up.

From left to right:

Colorblock Printed Tank - $26.90

What I like about this tank is that it has a classic shape that can be worn at any time of the year for any occasion, but has been elevated with a cool and unexpected print that looks artsy but not feminine, yet edgy. It also has some black paneling to help breakup and ground the print, so it doesn't look overwhelming if you were to wear this tank without layering on top.

Colorblock 3/4 Sleeve Tunic - $29.90

This is a super laid back top that you can wear on casual days to look like you're really not trying, but still want to look different from everyone else. This tunic top has colour blocking in different shades of blue, which would look cool with a monochromatic look with a pair of jeans. The longer hem makes it ideal to wear with leggings, which would add to the effortlessness. I think it can be worn with any bottom and be juxtaposed really nicely with dressier pieces too.

Kate Skinny Pant - $32.90

Dynamite has a lot of pieces specific to work wear and I think when it comes to anyone's wardrobe, there should be a pair of black pants that fit and flatter that specific person. I went with a pair of skinny black pants, because I feel like they're versatile to be worn for business and more casual. The skinny pant makes it easier to be worn with different to play with proportions or to keep a very sleek shape.

Basic Boyfriend Blazer - $59.90

To go with any black pants, there should be a matching black blazer. You can wear it as a suit, or you can wear them as separates. Together, they're a powerhouse for endless possibilities. I like blazers in general, because I feel like they're a versatile layering piece that can instantly anchor any look and make it look a little more put together. You can wear it casually out or dress it up for work, presentation or interview. I went with a blazer with a longer hem line, just because I feel like it would flatter everyone and you can get away with wearing it with a wide variety of tops, like tunics.

Suede and Chain Statement Necklace - $22.90

Accessorizing it important, because it helps you distinguish your outfit from the rest, especially if you're wearing the same "uniform" as everyone else; be it the tee and jeans combo or the pantsuit. I went with this necklace, because it's a mix of black and gold, which is classic but the textures and details are quite unexpected and unique. I think it definitely would dress up any outfit and bring the attention up to your face. It's perfect for fall/winter, because the suede and chains gives any look the layering and texture that all fall/winter looks have without it having to be quite those two seasons yet.

Total: $26.90 + $29.90 + $32.90 + $59.90 + $22.90 = $172.50 + tax = $194.93

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#BTS - Aritzia

It's one of the biggest Canadian stores with its own brands and other brands. It's grabbing the attention of people world wide, especially on the street style front. Aritzia has really nice clothes and also has a higher price tag, which doesn't make it the most affordable, but people are willing to splurge anyways. They have a lot of basic styles that are so versatile, that you can keep things minimalistic or jazz it up with accessories. With a $200 budget for back to school, I chose some gorgeous basics that will be a canvas for accessories or to just be worn alone. I'm steering away from most of the typical pieces that you see people wearing (like TNA parkas, TNA bowler bags, Wilfred cocoon sweaters, etc.)

From top left to bottom right:

Sundaybest Kerouac Jacket - $85

Although it could be considered as a pricier piece, I believe that it's worth the money. It's super soft and a great layering piece for fall and spring. You can wear it pretty soon too as a transitional piece into fall. You could wear it everyday with any outfit and make it your everyday jacket for school until winter hits. The moto style is a classic shape. I like the grey, because it lightens up any look while staying a neutral that pairs with any colour.

TNA Equinox Legging - $20

Almost everyone has this pair of leggings and although I wanted to steer away from what everyone has, I think leggings are such a basic anyways that it doesn't matter what brand it's from. This particular pair from TNA is super soft and you can also cut the bottom to customize the length to best fit your legs. It also comes in different band colours, but since it is a pair of leggings, the band should be covered so I just went with an all black pair. They can be used as a layering piece as we transition into fall and be worn all year round anyways.

Talula Roppongi Dress - $60

It's a pretty basic tank dress with a cinched in waist that you can dress up and dress down. It also has a shape that would flatter anyone. You can throw it on when you're running late and accessorize accordingly. If you have something to do later and need to wear a dress, you can just toss this into your bag and it won't take up a lot of room. I think it would great with layers to build upon it too. Also, the green is gorgeous!

Talula Fulton Mitten - $12

I know that it's not winter yet, but honestly, these mittens are super warm and super soft. They saved my hands from freezing weather, like that ice storm last year in Toronto. At $12 a pair, it's a really good price for the quality. They also come in a wide variety of colours, but I just went with black.

Total: $85 + $20 + $65 + $12  = $177 + tax = $200.01

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#BTS - Nasty Gal

Where trendy and edgy are two words that sum up everything. Nasty Gal has a pretty decent selection of clothes, shoes, accessories, beauty, and home items, while holding some of the coolest brands, like Jeffrey Campbell, Champagne, and Shoe Cult. I'm a huge fan of the things that they have on their website and for back to school, there are quite a few items that I'm eyeing from them. Although, I'm limited to a $200 budget, I also have to keep in mind that Nasty Gal is an American retailer so USD will have to be converted into CAD at the end. Customs won't be included in my budget, because it's difficult to assess that.

From left to right:

Sorena Shoulder Chain - $28

I think body chains are a huge trend right now that's going to be staying around for a while, just because it gives an edgier appeal. It's perfect for adding a little something unexpected to any outfit and it's also pretty versatile. I think you can layer it with anything. This is definitely something that I'm wishlisting.

Motel Trixi Dress - $75

There are going to be days when you sleep in for whatever reasons you may have (either be it studying late or partying late), if you're running late, you're not really thinking about what kind of outfit you need to throw on together if time is truly of the essence. I think this dress is the perfect piece to just throw on and run out the door. If your school has a dress code against shorter hem lines, I would just throw on a pair of leggings. The denim looks worn in and comfortable, which gives you an instant cool vibe without trying. I also like how it is a shape that would flatter any body shape.

Incognito Anorak - $58

I'm a believer in having an anorak around. They're super versatile and super comfortable to just throw on and head out the door. You can layer it in the fall and spring. You can also use it when you go indoors during the summer and the air conditioning is blasting. I think it's a slouchy laid back layering piece that still has a little bit of shape. I chose this particular one, because I think the colour is versatile, and the hood makes it a little more practical. You can literally layer this jacket over a lot of casual outfits.

Total: $28 + $75 + $58 = $161 USD into CAD = $176.72 + tax = $199.69

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#BTS - Zara

Zara is one of the biggest fashion brands out there that makes everything from basics to fast fashion with a more affordable price tag compared to designers, but still a little more expensive compared to all the other fast fashion brands. Personally, I really like the clothes from Zara. They are on trend, always. They are also pretty good quality for what you're getting, which sometimes helps me justify some of the price tags. For back to school, if I were to have a $200 budget, these are items I would get.

From left to right:

5 Pocket Jeans - $39.90

Classics. Basics. Who doesn't want a pair of jeans that are better quality than most jeans on the market in fast fashion stores at a pretty good price point? A dark blue wash of jeans are flattering on everyone and also super versatile. You can dress it down for school or hanging out for casual days out, or dress it up for night time.

Brimmed Hat with Ribbon - $17.90

Last year, one of the things I featured in the back to school post about Zara was a hat from the girl's department. I have a smaller head and children hats fit my head better. Children clothes and accessories are also cheaper. Zara has pretty stylish clothes for their kids that make them look a little more mature, which is perfect for me when it comes to some of their accessories. I get find great styles that fit and I don't have to look like a child. This specific fedora hat is from the boy's department and I think it looks pretty classic and the grey makes it a little more fresh than the typical black and cream fedoras that we tend to always see. The material is also soft and laid back, which is perfect for looking a little more put together without trying too hard.

Leather Slip-on Shoes - $59.90

I could last a whole school year with a single pair of shoes. Would I want to? Of course not! But if I had to, I would choose a pair of slip on flats, because I'll always be on my feet and I don't want to have any fuss. They also have to be versatile and stylish, which I think this pair definitely is. It's a juxtaposition of masculine and feminine by being a loafer. The nude colour makes it go with any outfit you decide to put together. The tiny little heel at the back makes it look a little more mature with a message of "I mean business". One of the best aspects of this shoe is that it's real leather, which makes it form better to your feet and is better quality. I also think the price is amazing for what you're getting here.

Leather Messenger Bag - $49.90

This is another real leather piece that's at a great price point. It's pretty basic but it comes in a gorgeous mint green finish that makes me want to get it instantly. It comes with a strap, but you can wear it over a shoulder, across the body, or as a clutch while carrying all the essentials you may need for an exam (since you might not want to carry a filled up school bag) or just to hangout when you don't have classes.

Total: $39.90 + $17.90 + $59.90 + $49.90 = $167 + tax = $189.39

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#BTS - Aldo

Aldo is definitely a must go to for back to school in my opinion. Besides the fact that they have a massage sale going on right now and they have a location at Dundas and Yonge, which is filled with sale shoes in the back like an outlet store, you can find pretty good deals on their regular priced shoes too. They also have been expanding quite a bit on the accessories and handbag front, which is a section that I really enjoy shopping through. Overall, they help you complete any outfit with pretty good prices. For back to school, if I had a $200 budget and had to only choose full priced items (with sale items, you can definitely get a lot more), these are the items I would go for.

Top left to down then top right down:

Imperiale Necklace - $25

As I mentioned previously, I've been really liking Aldo's accessories and I think they really upped their game. This particular necklace is a statement piece, but I really like the layers and the textures. Layer it over a typical T shirt and jean combo and it'll instantly give your outfit some visual interest all in one go. The necklace is definitely a little more complex, making it pair well with more basics to create a more elevated outfit.

Garolion Clutch - $40

I really like this clutch. I love the Paris print on it, because it reminds me of traveling and it's a little bit of a statement piece and conversation starter. It make not be the most practical for school specifically, but I think it's a really fun piece to throw in your bag and whip out during the night if you're going to some sort of event afterwards. You can even use it during the weekends. Although school is important, school isn't the only thing in life, so why not enjoy the other aspects in style?

Legalle Oxfords - $45

When you're going to be running from class to class, heels are not that practical. I would just opt for stylish flat shoes that are super comfortable. I mean, you don't want to be wearing heels when you've got a full day of school and whatever activities ahead of you. I think these laceless oxfords are a modern take on the old classic. They have this cool gunmetal silver finish that's also kind of sparkly, but not too out there. They can be easily slipped on and off, which helps in the morning if you're rushing or if you've got to go to the gym at school.

Wireni Ring - $8

This ring has a very simple design, which makes me love it so much. It wraps around the finger and since there is quite an overlap in the wrapping, it creates this really cool layering aspect that I think makes it versatile but bold enough to be the only accessory needed. Personally, I think it would look great on the index finger.

Eteliviel Ring Set - $12

I think these rings really make a statement, especially if you pair them all together for the stacking ring look, but individually, they would make a statement as well. My favourite out of the 3 is the chevron one on the left. I'm all about the layering rings trend, because I think it's a cool way to inject personality by showing off the complexity of it on your fingers.

Etelisen Loafer Flat - $45

Another flat shoe with a metallic finish, which is perfect for slipping on and off when you're on the go and staying comfortable throughout a full day of activities. This pair of flats has a little bit more of a masculine take on it. It has more of a loafer cut with a feminine shape, creating a perfect juxtaposition. I love the mix of navy with black, because I think it's so fresh. The patent cap toe grounds the shoe a little more and makes it a little feminine and sparkly and I think it also makes it a little more mature.

Total: $25 + $40 + $45 + $8 + $12 + $45 = $175 + tax = $197.75

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#BTS - Sephora

Usually late elementary/junior high is when a lot of girls get into wearing makeup, especially now when access to makeup tutorials on YouTube. I think when going back to school, you want to go with something more basic, but you also want to have options to experiment and have fun with makeup. Personally, I got into makeup pretty late, but these are the items I would get from Sephora for back to school with a $200 budget. I know that Sephora is expensive, but a lot of times the products can last you a long time if you don't use them everyday. I personally don't think you should wear makeup everyday anyways, because your skin needs some down time to breathe too. Also, I chose a lot of sets, because that's an easy way to try out different products for a lower price.

From top left to right then bottom left to right:

Shiseido Ready, Set, IBUKI Kit - $31

The base for beauty starts from with what you've already got. Whatever type of skin you have, I think it's important to understand it so you know how to properly care for it to prevent signs of stress (lines, dryness, blemishes, etc.). Shiseido is known for their skincare and this set is perfect for getting started into proper skincare. It comes with all the basics that you need for properly caring for your skin during day and night.

Benefit Cosmetics How to Look the Best at Everything - $38

This kit from benefit comes with everything you need to create a flawless face before adding colours to customize your makeup look. It comes with primer, liquid foundation, powder foundation, concealers, and a brush. It's the perfect way to create a base for the rest of your makeup by covering up those imperfections. You may have days when you need higher coverage and use all of the products in this kit, or there are days when you just need to use some concealer, but this kit nevertheless has everything you need.

Smashbox Master Class Palette III - Colour & Contour - $72

To create a lot of different makeup looks after having a proper skincare routine and applying foundation is with all or a combination of what is in this palette. I specifically chose this palette, because it comes with almost everything to finish the face and do most of your eyes. It comes with blush, bronzer, highlighter, contour, and eye shadows. There are so many colours and shades in this palette, that you don't really need anything else. You can use the darker shades and use them to substitute eyeliner if you need to. You may not use everything in this palette, but it gives you options; gorgeous options.

Too Faced Cat Eye Kit - $12

This is a relatively inexpensive kit from Too Faced, which comes with a mascara and eyeliner to finish off your eye look after using shadows or you can even skip the shadows and just use mascara or a combination of mascara and eyeliner. Both products are waterproof, which is great for all year round, because you just never know. Also it's the perfect way to really finish off any makeup look. When I don't have a lot of time left to do makeup, I try my best to use eyeliner and mascara just to make my eyes appear larger and to become the focal point of the face. Personally, when I look at someone, the focal point for me is always their eyes, especially when I engage with them.

Bite Beauty - Luminous Creme Lipstick Duo - $15

Some people think that the two products that they cannot live without are a lip product and mascara and with the two hand in hand, you can make a pretty basic and quick makeup look. Lip products gives you the opportunity to go bold on your lips (but in return, you should go softer everywhere else) or compliment a bold eye look by toning your lips down to not conflict. This lip product comes with two lipsticks in one stick, which makes it easy to carry around in your bag, especially for touch ups or just making a look go from day to night. I think you could definitely wear both colours together to create a different shade. One end looks more like a "my lips but better" shade for a lot of people, and the other is deeper than that for a bolder looking lip. With both, it makes this product pretty versatile.

Sephora Collection Color Hit Nail Polish in 57 My Favorite Jeans - $6.50

Not always needed, but a lot of fun is nail polishes. I just went with Sephora's own brand, because I feel like when you get into nail polishes, you tend to collect them, because you want to try different looks. Sephora's own brand is one of the cheapest they have in store, but they also have a huge range of colours. The colour I chose is this deep cobalt blue, because I think it's a gorgeous colour that can pretty much be worn with anything. It also gives your nails a pop of colour instead most neutrals. My second choice would be a neutral of some sort. Either a nude or a light grey.

Total: $31 + $38 + $72 + $12 + $15 + $6.50 = $174.50 + tax = $197.19

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#BTS - H&M

More than half of the year disappeared and most of the summer is over. Everyone's been talking about it and I can no longer be in denial. School is coming back in less than a month and it's time to start cracking on my back to school series like I did last year. What I do is I dedicate a post to a different store I would shop at for back to school with a hypothetical $200 budget and curate a shopping list on things that I would get for back to school and explain my thought process behind it. The $200 budget does include tax and will be worked into with Canadian currency and exchange rates (if online shopping from the states). I will be posting this series for the rest of August, every single day before returning to my Monday beauty, Tuesday food, and Thursday fashion posts. To kick off the series, I'm starting with H&M, which is perfect for affordable pieces that are classic or even fast fashion.

From top left going clockwise.

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$100 Challenge - Summer White Out

One of the freshest looks right now is going monochromatic. It's so easy to just go all black, but I'm going onto the other side of the spectrum. The head to toe in white looks bright and refreshing, even though it's a trend that's been around for a while. I've created 3 very different looks that are under $100 that will help anyone with a jump start into this trend while incorporating other trends (sheer, sporty, proportions, etc.)

Outfit 1 - Total: $45 + $6.80 + $15 + $21.80 = $88.60 + tax = $100.11

Dress from Boohoo for $45

Sunglasses from Forever 21 for $6.80

Bangles from Aldo for $15

Flats from Forever 21 for $21.80

Outfit 2 - Total: $27.80 + $14.95 + $14 + $22.49 = $79.24 + tax = $89.54

Tank top from Forever 21 for $27.80

Cardigan from H&M for $14.95

Skort from Boohoo for $14

Heels from Aldo for $22.49

Outfit 3 - Total: $5 + $6.95 + $25 + $18 + $5.95 + $14.95 = $75.85 + tax = $85.71

Hat from Boohoo for $5

Tank Top from H&M for $6.95

Pants from Boohoo for $25

Backpack from Forever 21 for $18

Rings from H&M for $5.95

Sneakers from H&M for $14.95

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Review - Say Cheese

There's another grill cheese restaurant in town and the name is just so adorable. Say Cheese is located on Bloor and St. George, which makes it a great spot for students and professionals alike. I wanted to try it out, because I'm a sucker for foods with cheese in it and it's at a location that I can access easily.

Nacho Libre - Guacamole, tomato salsa, jalapeno and cheddar grilled cheese.

Pulled Pork & Pasta - Pulled pork, BBQ sauce, mac & cheese with cheddar grilled cheese.

Pros:

The location is great. It's easy access for me when I'm downtown to grab a grilled cheese, considering that I'm in that area a lot.

I love how they grilled it so that the bread is crispy and when you bite into it, you get a nice crunch.

I like how they use real cheese and fresh ingredients.

The nacho libre was my favourite out of the two. I liked how everything balanced out. The saltiness of the cheese was taken down a notch with the avocado. The richness of the avocado and cheese was cut down by the tartness of the tomato salsa. The japapenos gave it a little bit of kicks, but not much.

I really enjoyed the mac and cheese inside of the pulled pork and pasta grilled cheese sandwich.

The sandwiches are pretty loaded up with their toppings.

The price is pretty reasonable for what you're getting.

Cons:

The guacamole was just coursely chopped up avocados. It wasn't dressed up to be a guacamole.

The pulled pork reminded me of why I don't like eating pork. It was dry and stringy. It was getting stuck in my teeth. The texture was really rough and it was hard to chew.

The pulled pork was really salty. I liked the idea of the sandwich, but I think it could have been executed a lot better.

Overall: 7/10. I would definitely return for the nacho libre, even though the guacamole was a disappointment. The location and the price is on point for me, and the other sandwiches look pretty good too. Worth to try.

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Review - Sana Make Essence Eye Concealer

It's been pretty recently when I've been getting dark circles under my eyes, no matter how much sleep I get. I figured that I should probably find a concealer to cover those dark circles up when I have to go to work. Considering that I've tried Sana's BB cream and really liked it, I thought that I would give Sana's concealer a try.

Product obtained: Sasa in store.

Reason for trying: In search for an under eye concealer.

Size: Full sized.

Colour: Light yellow

Coverage: Light

Purchase details: Sasa and other online Asian beauty stores for $11.70 each tube.

Pros:

I like how light it feels against the skin. It doesn't feel caked on, even if I apply a second layer for a little more coverage.

This product is rather inexpensive for a concealer.

I like the packaging and how it comes in a squeeze tube. I just feel like it's a lot more hygienic than a lot of other concealers that come in a tube and uses a wand to apply the product.

I think for the best results, use a concealer brush.

Looks better as a highlighter when blended well.

Once set, it lasts all day and night.

Cons:

The coverage is really light so it doesn't cover too much, unless I build it up a little more.

It budges, but it's probably because it takes a lot longer than expected to set.

It is quite yellow and looks unnatural against my yellow skin tone.

Considering that it works best with a concealer brush and it doesn't come with one, you may want to invest in one, which shouldn't be necessary.

Overall Rating: 6/10

Repurchase: No. It doesn't look natural on me and takes a lot more work than it's worth.

Recommend: Probably not, unless you have fair skin with quite a yellow undertone, without having much of dark circles. What is the likelihood of that?

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Review - Boscia Konjac Sponge

Konjac sponges are all the rage now when it comes to skincare. They are natural roots that help draw out impurities out of the skin. I heard a lot of good things about the one specifically from Boscia, so I decided to try it out.

Product obtained: Sephora instore.

Reason for trying: I got sucked into the hype over this konjac sponge from Boscia. The one with the bamboo charcoal had a lot of great reviews and a lot of people said they prefered this one over the others. It is also meant for combination/oily skin, which is what I have during the summer time and the charcoal is meant to kill bacteria that causes breakouts, which seemed like something I wanted in my life.

Size: Full size.

Purchase details: Boscia online, Sephora for $19 each.

Pros:

I like how one side is rounded and the other side is flat. I can choose which ever side of the sponge works best for specific spots on my face.

Works best with thicker and creamier cleansers.

Pretty soft against the skin as long as it is damp.

I feel like it does help exfoliate.

You can clean it to help its longevity so you can keep it longer than the 2-3 months that it states to use it for. To clean it, all you have to do is submerge it into boiling hot water for 2 minutes.

Comes with a thread for hanging.

Helped with removing makeup with facial cleanser compared to facial cleanser alone.

It didn't irritate my skin.

Cons:

Does not work well with thinner cleansers and especially bad with foam cleansers. The sponge soaks up all the cleanser that was on your face and then your face is left dry without any cleanser on it.

I wouldn't use it with scrubs, because the scrubs will ruin the sponge.

The thread broke off, because the sponge can be pretty delicate when it is wet.

I haven't really noticed too much of a difference in my skin since using the sponge.

Overall Rating: 7/10

Repurchase: I want to see if I can find a dupe, especially now that I'm in Hong Kong and I have full access to Asian beauty products. Otherwise, I'll probably see if there other other tools that I can use that'll be more useful. I just like this product for a daily dose of soft exfoliating.

Recommend: If you need a tool to help with your cleansing routine, then you could try this out, especially if you want to exfoliate your skin daily. I don't know if you're willing to spend that much on it, but it could work for you.

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$100 Challenge - Pineapples for Summer

Pineapples. They're seasonal to summer and they've been a huge trend this year. They were introduced few years back but they weren't as popular as this year. Taking one of the summer's favourite fruits and turning into a motif into fashion, I've adapted the trend into 3 looks that are $100 or less.

Outfit 1 - Total: $20.96 + $15.99 + $5.80 + $17.95 + $17.49 = $78.19 + tax = $88.35

T-shirt from Asos for $20.96

Shorts from Zara for $15.99

Cuff from Forever 21 for $5.80

Clutch from H&M for $17.95

Shoes from Aldo for $17.49

Outfit 2 - Total: $3.99 + $30.49 + $22.86 + $14.95 + $10.80 = $83.09 + tax = $93.89

Sunglasses from Forever 21 for $3.99

Bikini Top by River Island from Asos for $30.49

Bikini Bottom by River Island from Asos for $22.86

Dress from H&M for $14.95

Sandals from Forever 21 for $10.80

Outfit 3 - Total: $15 + $15 + $45 + $13.99 = $88.99 + tax = $100.56

Romper from Boohoo for $15

Body Chain from Boohoo for $15

Backpack from Boohoo for $45

Shoes from Aldo for $13.99

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Monthly Favourites - July

Officially, more than half of 2014 has flew by and I've been in Hong Kong for around and month and a half.  A lot of what I've been loving and getting more into has been influenced by my trip here and getting to know the culture more.

Beauty:

Marc Anthony Argain Oil makes my hair super soft and smells great. It's been helping with keeping knots out without making it feel really easy to work with when I want to style my hair.

Vichy Purete Thermale helps remove makeup and helps tone after washing my face while being really gentle on my really sensitive skin. A lot of times I find that it picks up on things that other facial washes and wipes cannot take off my face. Love it!

My Beauty Diary Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Mask has been something that I've been using once a week ever since I have arrived in Hong Kong. My skin has been taking a beating from super dry conditions to super humid and polluted environments. This mask helps cool my face and calm it down in the midst of all the damage that's happening to my skin. It is also super moisturizing.

Fashion:

This Forever 21 necklace was something that such a steal. It is so versatile. I love wearing it while wearing other statement bracelets or even alone. What I've been obsessed with is layering up with this other necklace.

I've bought this longer pendant necklace in Hong Kong, which I will talk more about when I do my hauls at the end of August and throughout September. This necklace was love at first sight and I couldn't leave the store without it. It's the perfect dainty necklace to layer with since it is longer and most necklaces come at a shorter length. I absolutely love the details on it and how it has some "crystals" on it to give it a little bit of a glam and girly look on something that looks a little more antiqued.

This scarf is a super light weight gauzy infinity scarf from H&M with this really cool grafitti print on it. The letters don't actually make any words, but they also just look like brush strokes  from a far, a la Celine SS14.

Food:

Oops! Ice Cream and Desserts is located in Wan Chai, Hong Kong and I absolutely love their ice cream. It's so creamy and flavourful and you can taste the freshness of the ingredients used. I got the black sesame flavour and it tasted like the black sesame was first roasted to bring out the flavour more. Delicious!

Simply Life is a chain of restaurants that serves french cuisine with delectable desserts. Pretty much every single week of being in Hong Kong, I've gone to Simply Life for a meal at Festival Walk. I want to try everything on their menu, especially all of their desserts. I highly recommend going, but the only problem is that their lines are super long.

EXP is a fusion restaurant between Asian and Italian cuisines. What they're more known for are their pizzas and their pastas. The best dish that I got from them was the squid ink pasta in a cream sauce and I definitely want to return to eat it again.

YouTube:

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Review - JaBistro

Sorry for missing out on a food post this week. I'm here to make it up to you with a review on JaBistro. JaBistro is part of the Guu family and has been getting a lot of attention from gorgeous plated food that's seen as art and a delight in the mouth. I went to Guu as a date, hence why there is so much food, and these are my thoughts.

Lobster Miso Soup ($5) - lobster broth miso soup

Fish Tartare ($14) - minced bluefin tuna and assorted fish topped with ikura (salmon roe) and uni (sea urchin)

Jalapimo ($6) - deep fried potato balls with jalapeno inside, served with a tianmianjiang dip on the side

Aburicious ($20) - ebi ozhizushi (pressed tiger shrimp sushi), saba oshizushi (pressed cured mackerel sushi), salmon oshizushi (pressed atlantic salmon sushi), and JaBistroll (salmon, snow crab, uni, cucumber and tobiko sushi roll); all have been blowtorched

Pros:

I really liked the richness of the lobster miso soup and the sweetness of the lobster really came out.

The fish tartare was such a treat. It was an explosion of flavours with sweet and salty with the fruits of the sea. I thought the mix of fish used was great and they were really fresh. The fact that it was topped with ikura and uni made it that much better, two of my favourite things to eat. I highly recommend this die

The jalapimo was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I really liked the texture.

This is another one of my highlights; the aburicious. It was difficult enough trying to figure out what blow torched sushi I wanted to try and in the end, we just went with the variety of the aburicious, which offered 2 of 4 different selections. They were delicious. My favourite was the salmon and the jabistroll. I really liked how the salmon had a little bit of soy sauce but wasn't soaked in it, and had a little jalapeno on top for a kick. The saba was delicious and not overly salty, like how saba usually is, which is great in my books. I generally don't eat shrimp sushi, but the ebi was a game changer. It was rich, but not overly rich and tender, which was perfect. The jabistroll was just a party in my mouth. It was sweet and savoury and with the perfect amount of smokiness from being blowtorched. I highly recommend this dish.

A complaint I often hear is that it is expensive. I didn't find that this was the case. We got 4 dishes and were full and we spent approximately $25 each, which I think is typical for dinner.

I liked how we got chocolate at the end of the meal. It was just a way to have a sweet ending.

Cons:

I got the lobster miso soup, because a lot of people raved about it on social media and in the pictures, they had a lobster claw in it. When I was leaving, I saw other tables with a lobster claw in their's too. Clearly, in my picture, mine didn't. I don't know why, but that was a disappointment. I even asked JaBistro via Twitter and no response from them.

The only complaint about the fish tartare is that there wasn't enough seaweed to eat all of the tartare so at the end, we just used our chopsticks and ate it alone.

The jalapimo wasn't anything special in my books. It was a pretty small dish and I couldn't even taste the jalapenos. The sauce that came with it tasted like a typical barbecue chipotle sauce instead of a tianianjiang sauce. This dish is a pass.

The only thing I didn't like about the aburicious was how the salmon oshizushi was oily and the oil absorbed into the rice. I wasn't a fan of the texture that it gave it.

Wasn't a fan of the chocolate, but I appreciate the fact that there was chocolate in first place.

I didn't like the service. I don't know if anyone else notices this, or maybe it was just my server that night. I was sandwiched between another table of Asians and a table of Caucasians. Who actually got service? The Caucasians. They had their plates changed after ever dish and were asked how their meals were and were offered refills on their drinks. Who just had food placed on the table and was ignored otherwise? The Asians. Not even a single word was said by the server to us two Asian tables. Such a disappointment.

Overall: 7/10. Would I return and recommend? Yes, solely just for the food. The only thing that really ruined the experience wasn't even the missing lobster claw in my lobster miso soup, though that was a disappointment. What really ruined it is something that they could just fix without racially profiling people, which is service. If you expect Asians to give less tip for whatever reasons and give them bad service, of course they'll give you bad tip, since tip meant to reflect the experience, especially service. Self-fulfilling prophecy much?

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Review - Physicians Formula Mineral Airbrushing Powder

Product obtained: The Real Canadian Superstore

Reason for trying: I wanted to pick up a drugstore powder foundation to experiment with and see what type of foundation would be my favourite. I like the idea of powder for the summer, because I do have oilier skin and my hopes was that this product would help absorb it and last throughout the day with the advertised airbrush finish.

Size: Full sized

Colour: 3B Translucent Beige

Coverage: Light

Purchase details: Walmart, Target, Shoppers Drug Mart, etc. for approximately $15 each.

Swatch prior to blending.

Swatch post blending.

Pros:

I really like the packaging. It comes with a main cap to keep the brush hygienic, the powder cap inside the product that keeps the powder on the inside of the main compartment on one side and has a pretty sturdy brush holder on the other side, and a sifter to dispense some product at a time.

I like how it absorbs my oil.

I also tried it out as a finishing powder instead of a foundation and I think I like it better as a powder to help with touch ups throughout the day.

It slightly evens out my skin tone in a pretty natural looking way in some parts of my face.

Has no effect on flash photography.

Cons:

I don't like how you can't regulate how much product comes out at once. Sometimes too much comes out, especially when this product has been moving around and shakes out of the section where all the powder is through the sifter.

This product is really messy. Whenever I use it, powder is flying everywhere. It flies up when I open the powder cap after shaking for some product to come out of the sifter. It gets everywhere when I buff it into my skin.

I really hate the brush it comes with. The bristles are short and dense, yet very rough and irritating against the skin. It feels like the bristles are ripping off my skin.

The colours available are pretty limited. This colour doesn't fully match me. It's still a bit light for me during the winter (seem in the swatches above) so I really need bronzer, especially in the summer to help me look decent.

Although it absorbs the oil throughout the day, it can sometimes cake up around my T-zone, especially nose and some of my lines are emphasized. You can see in the blended swatch above, you can see the lines on my arm, because of this product.

This product is definitely not for traveling. If it shakes around too much, too much powder would be released through the sifter, which means more mess and more wasted.

Does nothing for covering up redness and blemishes.

I don't feel like it gave me an airbrushing effect.

Overall Rating: 6/10

Repurchase: No way. Right now I'm just using it here and there for touch ups just to use it up. I have finishing powders that I prefer over this too.

Recommend: I think people should just save their money and find a better mineral foundation,