Last Christmas I traveled with my family to Germany and Austria to experience the infamous Christmas markets. It was overwhelmingly magical, and I’m trying my best to recreate a little bit of that magic throughout the holiday season in Calgary. One of the most consistent products at the Christmas markets is a mulled wine, known as gluhwein. Each vendor’s product had its own unique taste, and each city has it’s own mugs in which this concoction is served. I found this recipe for a homemade gluhwein, and it turned out beyond my expectations. Now all I need is to fill my thermos, get bundled up and walk around the neighborhood admiring the lights.
Before I moved back to Calgary, during one my visits home, my mother and sister brought me to a new boutique that had opened up in the Mission area. It was Coco + Violet, and it was love at first sight. Contemporary high-end labels that couldn’t be found anywhere else in Calgary. Each piece was done in a small size run, guaranteeing that you wouldn’t run in to half a dozen gals in the same outfit.
I was incredibly honored when Helen, owner of Coco + Violet, invited me to collaborate on a project together. It transformed into me designing and dressing the storefront window for Christmas. With an edgy gold and black theme, I designed, drafted and sewed three tea length tutus for the mannequins. I wrapped numerous presents, got my hands on a black tree, and hung dozens of gold snowflakes from the ceiling. We’re both thrilled with the results, and I hope this is just the start of our creative endeavors together.
BCBCMAXAZRIA Dress, BCBGMAXAZRIA Overcoat, Spanx Tights, Yves Saint Laurent Pumps (similar here), Chanel Clutch, Alexis Bittar Earrings (similar here)
With holiday parties in full swing, this alone could easily classify Christmas as my favorite time of year. I love getting to pull out my cocktail wear that seems a little too Las Vegas for any other time of year. This weekend I went to see A Christmas Carol here in Calgary. It’s become something of a holiday tradition for me to go to the local theatre and engage in the tremendous talent. It’s one of my most treasured things to do at Christmas time, and I always put an extra bit of effort into dressing up for it.
I’m hosting friends this weekend and there’s nothing I love more than sending them away with a sweet treat. In Framework Magazine, I shared some details on holiday take homes, and for this coming weekend I was inspired to use a more whimsical theme. I went all out in cake pop style, using directions from cake pop queen, Bakerella. I can’t wait for my guest to take one of these little guys home with them. I’m just hoping they’re not too cute to eat.
Moncler Coat, Rag & Bone Jeans, Jimmy Choo Boots (similar here), Louis Vuitton Handbag, Coach Gloves
When the cold weather comes to town there is no other option than to bundle up. Getting out the door is an entire event in itself. Coat, earmuffs, gloves, and boots are just a handful of the items in my winter repertoire. The biggest challenge is not putting it all together, it’s making sure you get home with all of the items you left with. You’d think this challenge would only apply to young children, but I assure you, it does not.
