Summer is one of our favourite season of the year. The warm weather, the easy days on the beach, and the gentle breezes of the evening - there’s so much to look forward to, including putting together some of the cutest outfits!
]]>This is what we look forward to all year! After making it through the cold winter months, we all need a little time to relax in the sun. With the soft sand warming our toes, you need to find the perfect outfit that is easy to slip off when you’re ready for a dip in the water! We’re always reaching for our strapless tops and dresses, which are so convenient to wear over your bathing suit. Not to mention, they’re always so light and airy! And maybe you don’t want to wear your white shorts to the beach, which: valid, but any of your favourite shorts will do the trick! Just make sure to dry off before sliding those denim ones back on!
If you’re like us, lunch with the gals often translates into snapping a pic for Instagram. Not only is preserving the memory of the moment important, but if your outfit is cute, you just have to show it off! There’s no need to make your outfit too complicated and while a simple outfit will suffice, sometimes it’s just fun to dress up a little. Our favourite lunch look? A playful tulle skirt with a colourful top! By balancing such a bright top with a neutral coloured skirt, the outfit looks cohesive and still casual. This look will also work for a more formal summer function - like a wedding, just pair your pretty skirt with a slightly dressier top! You can also switch it up a bit by pairing a colourful skirt with a neutral top, it’s all about balance!
While we won’t be attending any late-night festivals this year, there’s still the off chance we might have an evening function to go to. Whether it’s a romantic dinner with your partner or you’re merely going out for an evening stroll, sometimes you need to look chic and yet be comfortable. Our go-to outfit is always a black ensemble! Not only is it a striking look, it allows you to wear shoes with a bold print or a dash of red on your lips. You can keep it simple with a pair of black jeans (we always recommend the Isbisters!) and a light feminine top. Wear it off the shoulder for a more sultry look!
Those rainy summer days are definitely for lounging around at home! When the weather is dreary, there’s nothing better than curling up underneath a cozy blanket and watching a film with your loved ones. Of course, you’ve got to be comfy while doing so! Some of our favourite lounge styles are our tie-dye sets that keep flying out the door! These beautiful sets aren’t just comfortable, but they’re also so colourful which will brighten anyone’s day. It’s such a fun look to play around with, as well, since the patterns are never the same. Plus, they’re just so darn cute!
Disclaimer: Please remember to abide by safe social distancing practices and the laws set in place by your government during this time!
]]>If there's one thing many people may not know about the fashion industry, it's that it is about prediction. If you don't remember, a few months ago, we mentioned the styles of the 1970s were making a return and we were right!
We just underestimated how much you would be loving the tie-dye.
And really, we can't blame you!
However, if you're like us and even the tiniest bit curious as to where tie-dye originated or why it's become so popular, then we've got you covered. We took to Google and dived into its history, which we were a little surprised to learn dates back hundreds of years!
Despite the late 1960s and early 1970s popularizing the style through the likes of Janis Joplin and Joe Cocker, the concept of tie-dye goes all the way back to ancient Asia. While the use of chemicals and special dye is more common, in those ancient days, berries and flowers were placed in boiling water and used to colour the fabrics. The traditional form of tightly gathering the cloth to create intricate designs continues to be used today in places such as India, Japan, and Indonesia.
You may have also created your own tie-dye tee this way as a child or with your children!
So, why has it become such a popular style in 2020?
We hate to say it, but we have quarantine to thank for that. While the trend was already making a comeback this year, the arrival of COVID-19 sped that up. With so many people required to stay at home, babes were looking for comfy loungewear and found it in the form of the cutest tie-dye sets! Not to mention, DIY tie-dying has become a fun way to add some flair into your wardrobe!
And we totally get it, everyone's craving a style that offers a little bit of freedom and colour!
It's one of the many reasons we love the style. For us, it's a classic print that is timeless. Every single time we get a cute tie-dye set, the colours instantly brighten up the shop and make us smile. And we're not the only ones! In the midst of a global pandemic, a little bit of cheerfulness is certainly something we all need!
Let us know what colour palettes of the trend are your favourites! Do you prefer the classic black and white style, or the bright blues and pinks?
And not to brag, or anything, but we think our tie-dye collection is one of the best 😉
xo, The Elle’s Closet Team.
]]>Spring is just around the corner and we could not be more excited! Babes, there are so many cute new trends that are coming in this year and we’re so ready for the ones that are making their appearance this season. Yep, we’re officially ditching our winter jackets and trading them in for an adorable rain jacket! But first, we need to make the transition from winter fashion into spring!
]]>The arrival of spring doesn’t only bring beautiful flowers, but warmer weather too! When the sun comes out, you might be ready to ditch all those layers you’ve piled on during the winter, but babe! Keep layering, just layer lightly! There are still those odd days, especially in Alberta, where the temperature dips belong 0˚C and you’ll be scrambling for your winter clothes again. There are so many ways to layer lightly while looking cute! While it’s not a bad idea to keep your favourite sweater in your closet for those chilly evenings spent outside, a pretty kimono will complete your look!
It’s so easy to wear neutral colours during winter! After all, fashion often reflects the weather and it’s better to be bundled in a warm coat than to be too cold. Spring is the perfect season to try being bold! There are so many bright colours coming in this season that can be experimented with, from the coral pinks to the softer blues. Not to mention, a pretty floral print will certainly brighten up any outfit. Are you a casual kind of gal, but want to try a bolder print? Plenty of our blouses are absolutely nailing that and you’ll still feel comfortable wearing it!
The idea of packing up all your winter clothes into a box then shoving it into the closet might seem freeing but keeping some of those winter basics wouldn’t be such a bad idea! A plain white tee or graphic tank will never go out of style, no matter the season. These typically make up your core wardrobe and are pieces you’ll want to keep season to season! So, maybe you won’t be wearing oversized sweaters in the Spring, but your basic tee is perfect for rockin’ that jean jacket you couldn’t wear in the winter.
Babes, let us know what tips you have to make the transition from winter to spring easier!
xo, The Elle’s Closet Team.
]]>We're only two and a half months into 2020 and already the newest trends for the year are making their appearance! Babes, can we just say that we are so ready for the pretty colours and patterns coming in? While 2019 brought us plenty of knit tanks and stunning slip dresses, 2020 promises to be just a little bit bolder!
]]>
It’s definitely not uncommon for particular decades’ fashion to resurface and this time the 1970s are calling and she wants her styles back! Unfortunately, she’s out of luck because we’re absolutely keeping them! Fashion of the early 1970s drew a lot of inspiration from the 60s, where tie-dye tees, maxi dresses, and bell-bottom jeans were quite popular. As the decade moved toward the 1980s, styles became more casual with kimonos, loafers, and jumpsuits dominating the fashion scene. This mixture of styles is making a comeback this year! Already, we have some of the cutest jumpsuits and tie-dye styles at the shop and we are absolutely in love!
We love being out in the fresh air, especially when we’re off travelling to new places. We also love when nature inspires fashion! While neutral earth tones may not be prominent during spring and summer, you are going to see a lot of floral and animal print. Babes, monochrome and minimalism style isn’t in the agenda for this year! It’s all about being bold and experimenting with different patterns! Also tying into the 70s style, our adorable new loafers are perfectly in tune with nature!
Since 2000, the Pantone Color Institute has released a new colour each year which they believe will be the most influential colour in the upcoming year. To start off a new decade, Pantone has announced PANTONE 19-4052 or Classic Blue to be their pick for 2020’s “Color of the Year.” Blue is often considered to be a calming colour and is meant to bring a sense of tranquillity to those feeling restless. This particular shade of blue also “fosters resilience”, which is an idea we, as boss babes, can definitely get behind! Our current favourite shades of blue? The Vibration Studio Tank and Adios Tee!
The bold style of the statement sleeve dates back to the late 18th century in the form of pagoda sleeves before evolving into more tempered styles: The Bishop and balloon sleeves. The oversized sleeve creates a pretty silhouette on whoever is wearing it and if you’re not entirely into the dramatic of this sleeve, don’t worry! The style can be softened by a pretty ruffle and even having a lace cover might be able to change your mind! How beautiful is this blouse from Dex? It has the perfect blend of elegance and dramatic.
So, babes, which 2020 trend is the one you can’t wait to rock?
xo, The Elle’s Closet Team.
]]>
I screamed and my husband rushed me to the hospital, we figured it would be faster than calling an ambulance. I don’t remember the trip there, I was dressed when I got there but I don’t recall putting my clothes on. As soon as I arrived at the hospital they checked me and started whispering. I was terrified. The doctor came in and told me Stars air ambulance had been called and I would be going to The Royal Alexandra In their helicopter.
Shit!
Shit!
Shit!
I remember thinking that. An air ambulance? This was serious. It seemed like moments later Stars was there and strapping me in the helicopter. They were so sweet and attentive. The beautiful medic gave me a Stars teddy bear. She told me they were only for children that ride in the helicopter but I could have this one and hold on to it for when my baby was born, on her due date, she said with a smile. I appreciated her sweetness, I knew she was trying to ease my fears. She also took a picture of me and text it to my husband. He had to drive all the way to the hospital and I knew he must be freaking out. She wanted to make sure he knew I was doing good.
These people were incredible. They were so kind and concerned. I felt so cared for in the scariest moment of my life.
We landed in Edmonton and that is where I stayed until Gabby was born. Thankfully she was not born that day. We held on until she was 32 weeks, with many scares in between but we made it. I always think back on that day...one of the scariest of my life. And I remember the kindness and concern those medics showed me. I will never be able to thank them enough for what they did and for what they still do.
They help so many people. And have aided in saving so many lives. They are completely non-profit and are funded through organizations, individuals and event partners. It seems perfect to me that both our Athabasca and Edmonton location Spring VIP events would donate to Stars.
Not only are ticket sales being donated, but we will also be offering a significant discount on purses purchased for the purpose of donating, in Edmonton at the event there.
This is for another fundraiser called the pursenalmission. All purses purchased and donated that night will go to the Pursenalmission. Which is a super fun shopping event that you can attend with your friends, enjoy some treats and go bid on brand new purses and accessories. All money raised from this event is being donated back to Stars as well!
If you are interested in this event please find the information here
https://foundation.stars.ca/pursenalmission
We are truly blessed to have an organization like this available to us and we are really looking forward to being able to do a small part to give back to the amazing work that they do.
For tickets to our edmonton ladies vip shopping event, follow the link below.
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/
So as you know, I recently got a tattoo. It’s the logo of the key for the shop. Maybe it totally makes sense to you why I chose this or maybe you’re like.....Girl....Are you actually, literally branding yourself??
I guess yes, and no. I got this tattoo and the words grit and grace, because I feel like those words describe the last 4.5 years of my life.
I can’t lie to you guys. These past 4 years have come with some incredible highs and some terrible lows. I had no idea that I was a workaholic.
And not like, yeah girl....hustle, hustle!!
But more like.....extreme anxiety that I will fail and lose everything I have built unless I am literally working myself sick. And this is no joke, I actually recently was diagnosed and am still recovering from Shingles.
Shingles.
What??? Isn’t that what old people get? This is what I asked my doctor. She said, yes the elderly and young people who are very stressed out and have a low immune system.
Are you stressed Michelle?
A simple question.
I waited until I had reached the safety of my car and I burst into tears.
Stressed?
I’m hardly holding my head above the water. These days it’s quite normal for me to get light headed around 6pm and realize it’s because I haven’t actually eaten anything yet that day.
It’s normal for me to run off of 4 hours of sleep and 4 extra large coffees throughout out the day, then a few glasses of wine at night to help fall asleep because my body is jittering from caffeine.
This is not a healthy life. My body is incredibly angry at me. My mind is sad because being a workaholic is actually very hard. It makes my mom guilt go through the roof. In my head I know I have to put the laptop away and spend quality time with my precious girls. But the truth is, I feel better at working than I do at momming. Which in turn makes me hate myself a little. I’m good at working, I enjoy it, it’s satisfying, and people are actually quite impressed by what I do.
Momming.....I feel like a constant failure 24/7. I’m not making healthy enough food, their bedtimes aren’t on a proper schedule, Gabby cries every morning she has to go to school because she misses me, because I am a bad mom.
These are things that I put on me. They are not entirely true, but for some reason I like to beat myself up about them.
You might ask why I am being so transparent and admitting all of this to you? I’m sort of unsure of why I am too. But, I think it’s because I know a lot of you see my daily outfit pics and my cute photos of my girls and think, how does she do it all???? How does she have it together everyday?
Babes, I’m not doing it all. I am riding the struggle bus on the daily. On. The. Daily!!!
Working and being a mom is epically hard. I think in this day and age even more so because there is that constant pressure to be better. To look in control and to look like it’s all perfect.
I have recently started talking to a life coach out of Vancouver. While I am proud of my hard work, grit and determination. I also know it will hurt me in other areas of my life if I don’t learn how to control it. My marriage suffers, and my family suffers. Not to mention my friends, I feel like I never have time for them anymore.
I need help finding balance. I also recently hired a nanny so when I do get home from work, I can dedicate those few precious hours to my girls instead of trying to work, parent and be a good housekeeper.
These are a few of the things I am starting to do to take better care of myself. And please, feel free to comment any other things that have helped you. I am all ears babes!
So I am telling you this because I know there are many of you that are reading this, that can completely relate. I want you to know that you are so not alone!
And I don’t just mean working moms but also stay at home moms. I can not fathom the responsibility of being the perfect stay at home mom. I feel like I get a bit of a pass in some ways.....”Oh Michelle bought cookies for the bake sale, well it’s because she’s so busy.”
I know all you moms are just as busy but in different ways. So try find your balance mamas. I am trying. I am failing most days, but I’m learning to ask for help and try not to beat myself up if I don’t do it all everyday.
So the tattoo. The tattoo is a daily reminder of what I have built. With extreme grit and as much grace as I can muster. I have built myself a dream job! A job that makes my heart so happy it could burst. I have built a beautiful family. The tattoo is a reminder to enjoy it, to slow down a second and take it all in. My mind constantly wants to wander to what’s next?? A 3rd store..... a bigger 1st store.
What next??? What next????
Calm Michelle. Live right now. What’s next will come, but you need to enjoy your accomplishments as they happen.
We all do. We all need to enjoy what we have and appreciate the now.
So that’s the story behind my tattoo. That’s the story of me these days. A dang hot mess that is just trying to make it all work.
So please, know in those days that you want to scream and pull your hair out and wonder why you can’t do it all....you are not alone.
And you are doing the best you can do.
You are enough.
You are full of grit and grace, believe it.
Tattoo Done By: SaraKim Terrero @ Gold Ocean Studios
]]>
I know some people can feel stuck on how to wear these so I threw together some easy and super cute looks so you can see the many different ways you can style your romper!
Look 1~Super chic all on its own!
Look 2~Easy and finished. Adding a pretty little kimono over this with some cute shoes, really adds some punch to this look. This is our Gentle Fawn Gallery Kimono and I love the way it looks over top of the romper.
Look 3~Work Girl! How easy is this to put on some strappy sandals or pumps with a great jacket or blazer and off to work you go! Great for those warm summer days when you go from work out for a patio dinner!
Look 4~Simple with a pop of colour! Adding a coloured crop top or lacy bralette underneath the romper can totally change the look. Shown here I put on our C'est Moi bamboo crop top in Olive and our Orb lacey crop bralette.
Look 5~Beautifully Casual. The denim jacket or little leather bomber. We all have one or the other.......or both? How cute with some sneakers or slip ons!
Look6~Comfortable and classy. This Gentle Fawn Rylan cardigan is a timeless piece that really pulls this look together. So comfy for those cool evenings or when you're running around in the cool air conditioned grocery store!
So there you have it babes! This romper can be worn many different ways! I hope you love yours as much as I love mine!
Please feel free to send me a message if you have any question!
]]>I have to say I was not a fan when I first saw them. But I have come around to them and find them super comfortable and totally flattering!
We got in black and sage green culottes from Orb and we love them. I have put together a few different ways to style them as I was a little thrown at first as to how to wear them. As I played around with different looks, I quickly realized they are super versatile and adorable. I think the most important thing to realize when styling them is you need to either wear a crop top or a fitted or tucked in top. Wearing anything to loose on top may give you the appearance of looking wider than you want.
Look 1-Uber chic and casual! I paired this with one of our Z Supply sleek jersey tees and love this cool and casual look. This top is a little slinky and longer so I tucked it to give it a more finished look. Adding casual heels definitely made the outfit a little more polished, these are our Chinese Laundry Karlita heels (LOVE) but I would totally wear this with some cute sneakers too.
Look 2-Classy and Casual! I loved this cute, simple top with the rouched detailing on the arms. This is our Dex Clothing Pink Synched long sleeve Shirt. I feel like it adds a little bit more interest and to the outfit. I would wear this to the office or out for lunch with the girls. Comfortable but totally put together. I think the cute nude heels class this look up!
Look 3-Again, chic and casual! I just wanted to show you how easy it is to put together a simple look with a tucked in basic slim fitting top.
Look 4-Dressed up! I absolutely love this blouse tucked in to these pants. I think you could wear this for a wedding or out on a date. This could really be any blouse, though this Dex one looks incredible with it. We are also quite smitten with these adorable new Chinese Laundry Savana heels.
So who can wear Culottes? Everyone (though they may need to be hemmed if you are short. I still think if hemmed right, with heels, they will look adorable if you are shorter.)
Should you embrace the culotte trend? YASSSSSSS...it took me a bit to come around but now I am in love!
Have a great day ladies, and if you have any questions please feel free to send me an email ellesclosetboutique@gmail.com or reach out on Instagram or Facebook!
]]>
Look number one(my personal favourite!!!)
Black Jacket is Jack by BB Dakota, Suede Booties are the Toms Lunata, and Black leggings from House of Koopslie.
I love how a little black jacket can make this look super edgy. I think it would also look amazing with taller boots.
Look Number two
Sweater is Gentle Fawn, House of Koopslie leggings and Toms suede Leila booties.
I think it is safe to say most of us have a great long neutral coloured cardigan in our closet. I love the grey colour with this to contrast a little but I also think it would look great with cream, black or even a pop of a solid colour! Play with it a little! I wore fleece lined leggings here but I really think you could do liquid leggings too, if you wanted make this look a little bolder.
Look Number 3
Okay so how cute is this little dress? I think you could wear it to so many things, fancy it up with scrappy heels for a wedding, or wear it out for lunch and shopping with some cute slides or booties. The material is very soft so its actually really comfortable too.
Look Number Four
Mavi distressed jean jacket, Malvados sandals
Okay how cute is this with a little denim jacket over top? Jean jackets are such a staple and I think a jean jacket over a dress is such a fun look. Again, throw on some leggings and a big scarf (theres look number 5!!) if its too chilly to rock this look just yet.
So there you have it friends, you can buy those summery pieces now and still wear them! If you are in Canada, especially the prairies, our summer wardrobes sure don't last long so its essential to find ways to give our summer clothes more life! If you have any questions please don't hesitate to message me. I love to hear what you gals have to say!
]]>
So this is not professional in anyway, however a lot of you have been messaging me asking how I do my way hair and if I would be willing to do a hair tutorial. I just did this in my bathroom with my iPhone and 2 year old singing abc's in the background.
I use a Babyliss Pro 1" curling iron. I try wash my hair every second day. I switch up my shampoo and conditioner ALLLLL the time. If you are wondering about the cut and colour I have been going to Soho Hair Masters in Edmonton for over 4 years. They are amazing!
]]>
I was asked to sign into another 12 month lease with the mall. To say I stressed over this would be an understatement. I have always wanted Elle's Closet to grow, maybe multiple locations owned by myself or maybe franchised? I don't know for sure but I know I have big dreams for it. So, when this opportunity arose I felt I had to try it. I was not ready for a second location but I felt like thats how my business has been since day 1. Pushing forward and taking leaps before I was ready. Its worked so far, so I felt I had to keep going. I am glad I did, it opened so many doors for me and I met so many amazing people! I don't know that those doors would have opened if I hadn't done the pop up. I was asked to be on the Ryan Holtz show podcast which I think was incredibly cool! I was named one of the Top 40 babes with bad ass jobs in Edmonton by Narcity Edmonton, again, so cool! I have met so many amazing ladies in the edmonton blogging community. Jen Kinal from A beautiful Inspiration is such a pleasure to work with and one of the sweetest ladies I have ever met. Robyn from My Closet Journey is one of the best girls out there. She is super inspiring and a great friend to have by your side. These are just a few of the amazing ladies I have had the pleasure of getting to know personally since making the decision to pop up in Kingsway Mall.
However, all this aside. Should I stay or should I go now? The million dollar question. I have changed my mind so many times. I have talked this to death with friends, family and my husband. Will people think I failed if don't keep going? Will people think this small town girl couldn't hack it in the big city? Will I regret it if I don't keep going? Will I stop my companies growth in its tracks if I decline this opportunity? Will I be disappointed in myself for not trying? Am I being lazy by saying no? These questions, amongst others are going through my head non-stop.
I have had to talk myself and my pride into looking at the bigger picture and what is most important. I can't worry about what people will think. I have to worry about what is truly the right move for me and my family. Which is why, after many tears and late night chats I have finally come to peace with my decision to not continue on with our Kingsway Mall Location. The timing to expand into a second location just isn't right. My girls are still so young and they need me. Even if physically I don't need to be there daily, mentally I am always there. Always worrying and checking in. It's not fair to my family or my mental health right now. This was a very hard choice to make. I was/am so proud of our beautiful second store. It makes me misty eyed to think that in just 4 short weeks it will no longer be there. I just have to keep reminding myself that just because the timing isn't right for me now, doesn't mean this door is closed. I have lots of time to grow my company in the future. My girls will only be this small for so long and I don't want to miss these moments. I also have to say the biggest thank you to Lindsay Botha from Kingsway Mall leasing. She was so incredible to work with and immediately made me feel like I was a part of a family when we moved into our space. I also feel she went above and beyond to just chat with me personally about weather staying on was the right choice for me right now. I feel like I made a friend and am sad to lose that work friendship. So thank you Lindsay, you are amazing!
I will never regret our pop-up in the mall. It was so much fun being in a totally different atmosphere. It was especially fun being there over the christmas season. I love the mall and the city during December. It is so festive and bright! I really do hope and believe that we will one day have a permanent location in Edmonton. I am a small town girl but YEG holds a special place in my heart. I loved being a part of the community and the city life, I love being able to say I am a yegger. I plan to have that back again someday.
So Edmonton, this is not goodbye, its simply See ya later
]]>
1.) Jewelry!
Now, I don't mean break the bank, super fancy jewels that rarely get pulled out of their pretty little box. I mean everyday pieces that she gets to enjoy all the time! Like our Eliasz and Ella jewelry. This stuff is actually made local right in Edmonton Alberta. I have met the husband and wife team that created this line and they are AMAZING people! It makes me so happy to know I am supporting a local couples dream when I sell these pieces. And they are totally affordable, on trend and great quality! Winner!!
Bracelets are $30 and earrings vary from $28-$33. She will love these!
Another Local jewelry company that we love is Lover's Tempo, and by local I mean neighbour. This company is based out of Vancouver, BC. The jewelry again, is affordable and so dainty! They have a huge selection and I seriously can not keep this stuff stocked. It is so easy to wear! Definitely a big favourite!
2.) Candles and Bath Salts
I love love love a hot bath with some salts and candles! These Coal and Canary Candles are made in Winnipeg, MB. They smell like heaven and are completely chemical free. They are made of Soy and Vegetable wax and use a wood burning wick so they actually crackle and snap while burning! Say what????
We also carry locally made soaps and bath salts.Deep in the Trees Soap Co. is out of Ghost Lake alberta and we are so thrilled and honoured to carry this locally made, clean line!
3.) Scarves and beanies! Who doesn't love scarves? I like to keep a few extra blanket scarves in my car for my kids if they get cold. They can jazz up any plain outfit, and obviously work wonders for our chilly canadian winters!
We love our scarves are from Hook Design & Co. They are a canadian company as well. These scarves are completely stunning and easy to see the craftsmanship put into them.
We have scarves from Jackson Rowe, which too is a canadian company. The scarf shown is the cloud and literally that is exactly what I would imagine a cloud to feel like!
We have a few different brands of beanies, a very hot seller is our C'est Moi real fur pom beanie! They are super cute on and come in a few different colour options!
4.) S'well Bottles. I don't know to many people who would be disappointed to find a S'well bottle under the tree. These bottles keep liquids cold for 24hrs and hot for 12hrs! AND....they legit work! yes indeed! Also fun fact, the bigger bottle holds an entire bottle of wine. You're welcome
4.) Beauty product/Makeup! Beauty Kissed by Kelly sells her fave make up and beauty products right here in the shop. She recently brought in a new line called Oribe and it is AHHHHHHH-MAZZING! For real. The Gold mask is insane and when I become as rich as Oprah, Imma give out gold masks to every body! Another huge fave of mine is the make up eraser. This is one of those things that I rolled my eyes at. Removes make up with just water and this cloth. Mmmm-hmmmm sure. But yes, indeed it does. Every make up wearing lady NEEDS this! And how cute and festive is that packaging? So good! Also I have included the new Elate lipstick. These are so easy to wear and with beeswax in them they actually make your lips feel soft and hydrated. Elate is another canadian and clean company! Our fave!
5.) Purses/Bags. Every lady loves a purse or bag! I personally am more of a wallet/crossbody gal myself. I am crazy for these new CoLab bags we just recently brought in. They feel expensive, are very well organized (even fitting my large iPhone 8+ so that makes me happy. Best part, they are very affordable! Ranging from $25-$50 for cross body bags.
6.) Lemon loungeware is also a great gift for under the tree. The slippers are so warm and cozy she will never want to take them off! Not to mention they are super adorable!
7.) Winter Kimonos/Ponchos! Yassss....these super soft and beautiful ponchos from Gentle Fawn are one size! No worrying about the right size and they are totally on trend so your lady will be super impressed!
8.) PJ's!! We have the most adorable pyjamas from Orb clothing. Now these are a little trickier as they are sized but be creative, sneak into her closet and check out her tags for sizing. Everyone loves new cozy pjs!
9.) House of Koopslie is and Edmonton brand that we love so much! The headbands are beautiful and there is so many ways to wear them. Everything comes in 2 sizes making it super easy to judge which to buy. It is all made of bamboo so its incredibly soft and durable. The tops can be worn so many different ways, as can the bum warmers. Anything from this local one would be a hit!
10.) And last but not least, a GIFT CARD! Seriously who doesn't love a gift card? My personal fave, a gift card wrapped with wine and chocolate. Thank you, I love you, you win best gift ever! Thats just me, just a hint :)
Hope this helps make your holiday gift buying a little less stressful this season!
Happy shopping and Happy Holidays
]]>I am insanely lucky that I get to wake up every day and go do a job that makes my so happy I can feel it right down to the tips of my toes. However, that doesn't make it easy. The mom guilt is real y'all! My daughters cry in the mornings that they don't want me to go to work. Between sniffles they beg me to stay home. Though I know they have a blast at their sitters or spending the day with dad. It is still heartbreaking to hear them cry. It is really hard not to wonder, would they cry like this if I was home more often? This tantrum is because they feel neglected, they are acting out because they don't see me enough. Everything going wrong is my fault because I enjoy being at work. (okay that got a little dramatic but you know what Im trying to get at here)
Also, my house is trashed 90% of the time and it makes me cringe. I hate a messy house and can not sit down and relax until it is clean. Hence, relaxing doesnt happen to often. And to top this off, lets be real for a minute here. I am running a small business, Im working on average 18hrs a day so that means Im making roughly $2/hr?? Wait, what?
Some days I cry into my glass of wine in frustration and think WHY?? I could go do a 9-5 and make 10x more money, leave work at work and have evenings and weekends off. Why in the world am I doing this, to me, to my family?? So after I am done an ugly cry of frustration I sit back and think about a 9-5 and I can literally feel my soul cringe and wither up. Been there done that, I have zero passion for anything 9-5. All of my life I have been a dreamer. I have dreamed of a hundred different and mesmerizing careers. An interior designer, an event planner, a boss babe in a rocking power suit, a motivator, just to name a few. I get to do all of these things wrapped into one by owning my own business. Every creative inch of me gets satisfied in some way when I am at work. Being in my boutiques feeds my heart and soul in a way I never knew they needed to be fed. It's a passion stronger than me and I just can't give it up, no matter how hard it gets some days.
So I wipe my tears, dry my eyes and call my husband. Oh, did I mention my husband works away half the year? So yes, parenting two small girls and running a growing business while my husband works away, sometimes it feels cruel. Thankfully, my husband is a true prince. Honestly, he really is. There is no chance I could do what I do with out him in my corner. If you know me, you know that I might be a little.......hot headed? impatient? scatterbrained? I prefer the term, creative soul. So anyways, you know what my husband has to deal with, and he does it with such patience and grace. He is always the one to remind me that I can and will get through the newest obstacle and that our families are behind me. We will get through it. I am so grateful for his love, support and encouragement.
When I decided to open my boutique my family was my biggest concern. Then when I decided to open boutique #2 it was all my concerns magnified. How could I do this to them, they would miss me so much, my girls need their mom!! So, I find I am not volunteering at Playschool all the time like I always assumed I would. Im not baking cookies....heck...Im not baking anything?! Im not doing homemade crafts, I'm not putting together the perfect memory box and photo albums for my children. Basically my inner pinterest mom score is at measly 2 of out 10. Old Michelle, she is disgusted by this. I look at these other moms doing all of those things and my heart breaks that I'm not being enough for my girls. That they NEED these things from me and I am putting my dreams before their needs...
.
.
Am I??? Or, am I teaching them that having your own dreams, ambitions and goals is important too. They go to parent link and to play school and do crafts and sensory play. Really, how much crafts do they need in a day? They make cookies and play dough with their grandma and their sitter. Clearly they are not missing out on these things. I have worked hard to surround them with people who love them and can, and do, provide them with all the things I lack in doing. They are not missing out on these things. That is very hard to remember and it's hard to forgive myself but I think that also might be a big reason for this new blog post. This is something for me to read on those hard days, something to remind me that I am taking care of them. And who knows, maybe this is something for you too. Maybe you need a reminder too. It's okay to love all aspects of your life. It's okay to be a mom with dreams other than raising your children. It's okay to be a mom who's dream is to stay home and raise her children. Its okay. You do you. And you love you. You're doing it right for you.
I get asked a lot how I do it all? I have to chuckle, I hardly do it!! I post only photos of myself at my best and my children when they are clean and cute in matching outfits. I just don't post the other 23.5hrs of my day that is a chaotic mess and there is screaming, snot, tantrums, timeouts and takeout for supper. I keep that part hidden, cause really, it just doesn't make for the best photos!
Living a life that fuels both parts of my being, a mom/wife and a business owner, its stressful and scary. But it is so rewarding and exciting, I am lucky to live this life. I pray I am showing my daughters that dreams really can come true if you are willing to put in the hard work. I pray that I am making my husband proud of the woman he married.
I know I am making many mistakes along the way but I am also learning from them and I am growing in so many ways. So for those who wonder if it's hard owning a business and being a mom, obviously the answer is yes! Yes, all the yesses!!! But, it is also pretty damn amazing too!
To all you boss babes out there! I raise my wine glass to you, Cheers my friends! Cheers to working moms, to stay at home moms. Cheers to momming, cause damn it, its hard!
]]>
I feel like I have said these words all of my adult life.
If I just lose 5-10lbs, I will be so happy with my body. Or, if I could just tone this up a little, if I could just do 1500 more squats......In just, If I and When I. Well, how about right now??
I am making a super conscious effort to start loving the body I am living in. To start giving thanks to the body that does so much for me, with so little thanks and recognition in return.
I was incredibly scared to do a bikini photoshoot. Throwing on beautiful clothes and smiling for the camera is one thing. It's fun and it helps you ladies see the clothes in a different way than the stock photos from a magazine. A way you can really wear them. But, putting on a bikini for the whole internet to judge my post-baby, no time to workout anymore body. Ummm well, that sounded terrifying. "If I had time to lose 10lbs then it would be fine, I would rock that swimsuit!" --Insert huge eye roll here
I tried on the suit and stared at myself for a few minutes. Was I a bikini model? Ummm...No! was I horrific? Absolutely not! Did I have the kind of body many women would wish for? Maybe? However, it wasn't my best body, that was what was bothering me. But this needs to stop, because is it ever your best body? The thing that really escalated this whole blog post for me was when I recently stumbled upon a picture of myself from about 6 months ago. I have gained roughly 10-13lbs since I have stopped breastfeeding Gemma. My diet and eating habits really have not changed. I suppose breastfeeding was really just burning all those excess calories every day. Anyways, I remember the day I took that photo. I was wearing my over washed, super comfy maternity shorts and they hung off my bony hips. It didn't occur to me that it was because I was small, it was simply that I stretched these shorts during pregnancy. In my head, this was the reasoning. I remember thinking, if I could just drop and few more pounds and tone up a little I would be so happy with my body.
Lets fast forward to an additional 10lbs and I am sitting here looking back at that body and thinking.."Whaaaaaaaat?? Where on earth did I think I was going to find any more weight to lose?? I looked amazing.( I mean, not to toot my own horn but there was nothing to complain about!) Unfortunately, this is not the first time I have looked back at pictures and longed for the body in the photo. The super annoying thing is, I have never been truly happy with my body. Or rather, myself. Sure, the day I ran a marathon, I was pretty pleased and content with the way my body looked. But my boobs were so tiny, my hair could have also been just a little longer and you know...maybe a little blonder. Thats the thing, there is always something you feel like you can improve on. Someone is always going to be a little thinner, a little taller and a little more confident. It's time to start appreciating and loving what you have. I am making a promise to myself right here and now to stop!!!
This body made and grew two human beings from scratch! It has been around for 32 years. Heck yes, it has some imperfections, but it's also pretty amazing. I, we, as women have to stop wishing for something else! No, I won't stop working towards a better, stronger, and healthier me. However, I will not make the current me feel badly about myself. I am better today than I was last week, and next month I plan to be a little better than that. But I am going to enjoy this ride and these seasons of life. I am going to be proud of my body and love it. I am going to teach my daughters to appreciate the body they have to take care of it, and....to be easy on it. To be easy on themselves. To love themselves.
Everyday is a gift and my healthy working body is a gift as well. I need to start treating it as such, instead of constantly wishing it, wishing I, were better.
So ladies, put on that bathing suit, or that dress. Does it make you feel good, will you have more fun wearing it than sitting on the sidelines and watching? Then wear it! Have fun! Dance, swim and enjoy the body you have at this very moment. Be kinder to yourself! Please, stop comparing yourself to the woman beside you, because odds are, she is too busy comparing herself too.
Live more, laugh more and love more.
Life is short, lets enjoy this crazy ride.
]]>
This new vest from Dex Clothing is awesome! Military green jackets and vests are super hot right now and I wanted to highlight the many different ways you can wear this piece. I feel like this kind of item of clothing is a staple. Its a neutral so you can wear it with many different colours and I love that its easy to dress up a bit, wear to work or just throw on to hang out with the kids or your friends for the day.
First style, easy casual
Love this vest open with a simple tank underneath, I am wearing our ZSupply Sleek Jersey Tank, linked here;
https://ellesclosetboutique.ca/collections/tops/products/z-supply-sleek-jersey-tank
and a pair of distressed Articles of Society Jeans also linked;
https://ellesclosetboutique.ca/collections/bottoms/products/articles-of-society-carly-crop
A pair of booties and some simple accessories makes this a super cute outfit that is cool, comfy and chic. Perfect for lunch or shopping with the girls or heading out on a family date!
The second outfit is the same vest, but this time I zipped it up and wore cropped leggings with it. I think this makes the perfect office outfit or again, lunch with friends.
I added some heels to this look to give it a slightly more grown up feel, the ones I am wearing are linked;
https://ellesclosetboutique.ca/collections/shoes/products/toms-desert-taupe-majorca-cutout
Adding simple accessories and a clutch makes for a great look. I am all about easy and effortless so this is great for me. And its comfy, seriously I can't care how cute something is, if it aint comfy, there is no way I am wearing it. YOLO and whatnot..
The 3rd look is my favourite, I think, maybe...I love them all
Underneath this fantastic vest I am wearing one of our favourite ZSupply breezy dresses. We have these in a few colours and I want one of each! I have it linked below;
https://ellesclosetboutique.ca/collections/dresses/products/z-supply-breezy-dress
I paired it with my Toms booties, because, well I pair everything with my Toms booties! Lol, yes Im obsessed. But guys, I now have them in 2 different colours so I am branching out! I would wear this for an evening out, its a great date outfit!
I love finding multiple ways to wear one of your bigger purchase items. If you are going to be spending more than $50, you better be able to get a lot of wear out if it, in my opinion.
Hope you enjoyed seeing the different ways I styled this. You can always copy this look with your own vest you already have, or a cute denim jack or blazer would work in place of this vest as well!
Lots of love,
Michelle
]]>
This is what was boldly written across mine and Kaity's coffee mugs the other morning and it really got me thinking, girls can and really do run the world. I love this song, I love this female empowerment and mostly; I just love Babes supporting Babes. I am so blessed to work daily with some incredibly talented women.
I have a makeup artist that works out of the shop, Kelly from Beauty Kissed by Kelly. She is a mom of 2, about to be 3 and that girl never stops. She does the makeup for our photoshoots and is so talented. She is kindhearted and always ready to help me with my million and one questions.
Alysia Semrok is a local photographer that does photoshoots for the shop. She too is a working mama, she is so passionate about her work and it clearly shines in her photography.
Karen Harps is a local soap maker that sells her creations out of the shop, again she is a working mama of twins with a heart of pure gold. Always ready to lend ahand and an ear!
Then of course I have Kaity, even though this young girl has only been with me a short time she has already proved herself to be the yin to my yang, the Christina to my Meredith, the Taco to my Tuesday, ya get where Im going with this. She is my other half at work, I would be lost without her help and encouragement.
I just recently hired Leah and the lady has a heart of gold and over the short few weeks she has been working with us, she has shown how loyal and hardworking she is. Anyways, the point to me listing off my wonderful tribe of ladies, is that we all BUILD EACHOTHER UP!! It is a beautiful thing when women not only come together as friends but also work to help each other reach for our dreams.
So ladies, lets remember to always be kind to each other, to support and rally for each other. Being a girl is a wonderful, amazing thing. Being a girl who makes other girls feel good about themselves, that is just pure gold.
Love your sisters, love your tribe, love yourself!
#girlpower
xo, Michelle
]]>This is actually my first ever blog post! ***Eeeeeekkkk!!!*** I am not much of a writer but I thought it would be fun to share some of my favourite looks with you and tell you about them!
This is me in the photo, Michelle. Hi! Nice to E-meet you! I am pretty casual when it comes to my everyday outfits, I am a busy mom of 2 little girls (send wine! Kidding, sorta, seriously though wine me!) and I just don't have the time to fuss everyday over my outfit. Especially when 9 times out of 10 there is random weird things on it before I leave the house. Moms-ya know what Im saying, non-moms-enjoy your clean clothes! Enjoy them! What was I saying? Right, simple but cute and trendy outfits.....my jam!
Like this super fun and comfy (yes I use this word a lot, comfort is important) outfit I am featuring. These military green joggers are from Dex and I absolutely love them! They also are only $79, score! They look great paired with cute booties or sneakers. You choose my friend. I paired it with a cream suede ZSupply tank. Very basic look but I think the loosely tucked in shirt with the booties gives it a slight casual/glam look. Cas-am? No, Michelle, thats weird. Anways, it is my favourite go-to outfit and it is all available right here on the website!
Happy Friday lovelies...
]]>