March 7, 2016

Cloud Gate

If you're following me on Instagram, you will have already gotten a sneak peek at some of the things I got up to while I was in Chicago last week (mainly a lot of eating, drinking, and visiting some well-known sights). Cloud Gate, for example, otherwise known as "The Bean"... which I had seen many pictures of before but really had no idea just how cool it is in person. No matter which way you approach this giant sculpture -- all around and even under -- you see a different reflection.

Sweater: Wilfred (Aritzia) / Leggings: Wilfred (Aritzia) / Parka: TNA (Aritzia)
Shoes: Converse (here) / Sunglasses: Ray-Ban (here)

February 25, 2016

Neocell Super Collagen +C and Beauty Bursts

As you know, I have been sick on/off since December and the stress on my immune system has really been taking its toll on me. I was already taking a number of supplements (fish oils, probiotics, vitamin C, oil of oregano), but recently went to a naturopath to discuss additional options for boosting my overall health. My daily pill intake has now increased considerably but I'm finally feeling more like myself. Of course, time will tell whether my new regime is really having a positive effect rather than placebo but after months of illness let's just say I was getting pretty desperate for any solution possible.

That brings me to today's post, which is a little different because I'm going to be talking about supplements. However, they're beauty-related so still totally relevant for the blog!


A while back, I was contacted by PR for NeoCell to try out some products for the company's recent launch in Canada. Initially I was a bit skeptical because the idea of taking collagen supplements sounded really weird. However. since I've been focusing on improving my overall health and well-being, I decided to give it a try.

NeoCell's collagen products are specifically designed to support the body's natural collagen supply, helping skin achieve that healthy glow, hair grow thicker and shinier, and nails longer and stronger. As we age (something I'm all too familiar with given my impending 30th birthday later this year -- eep!), collagen also plays an important role in strengthening and rebuilding lost muscle mass and connective tissue.

If you're interested in trying collagen supplements for yourself, here are a number of easy to digest options: NeoCell Super Collagen+C Tablets, NeoCell Super Collagen Powder, and NeoCell Beauty Bursts™.


For those who are okay with taking pills, the NeoCell Super Collagen+C Tablets are standard oval tablets that deliver 6,000 mg of NeoCell collagen. If pills are tough to swallow, you can instead try a scoop of NeoCell Super Collagen Powder mixed in with water or juice. I personally don't like drinking my supplements so this is my least preferred method. Instead, I have been loving the yummy NeoCell Beauty Bursts™. These fruit chews aren't candy but they do taste pretty good (if a little chalky) and contain  2,000 mg of collagen, along with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. Talk about an easy way to pack some important nutrients into your diet!

NeoCell products are all-natural and contain no preservatives, artificial flavors or colors, and contain no gluten or GMO ingredients. Find them at Whole Foods Choices Markets, and London Drugs.


P.S. I'm off to Chicago for a week-long vacation so I'll be taking a mini hiatus from the blog. When I return, prepare to be bombarded with photos from my trip!

February 22, 2016

TATCHA Luminous Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate & Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum

Over the past month, I've been testing out two new additions to the TATCHA Luminous Collection, the company's best-selling skincare line: the Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate ($110) and the Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum ($95).


You may recall that my first experience with TATCHA's products involved the Ritual Discovery Kit and I marvelled over the gorgeous packaging. Well, TATCHA continues to impress with these two products. The purple and gold just scream luxurious (and they better; these are on the expensive side and I'd expect nothing less at this price point).

The Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate features an ultra-concentrated formula of Okinawa Red Algae, Wild Thyme, Ginseng, and Squalane which you apply before bed for radiant, glowing skin when you wake up in the morning. The texture is unlike anything I've ever encountered before; it's firm to the touch (almost like Jell-o) but the tiny gold spatula attached to the lid allows you to scoop out the product easily. It melts into your skin instantly and a little goes a long way. I'm absolutely in love with this serum -- it's not sticky and feels hydrating, even with my oily/combination skin.


To wake up my undereye area, I have also been using the Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum, which combines the same Okinawa Red Algae with natural caffeine from Green Tea. The ceramic applicator is cool to the touch and feels incredibly refreshing on puffy eyes. Plus, the formula includes 23-karat Gold Dust to brighten and deflect shadows. Talk about fancy!

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