With Love…
12Mar/1018

Toronto Must-Sees….in my opinion that is!

Hello Darlings,

This is why Toronto is the simply the best, at least in my mind!

The variety of people and neighborhoods that it offers is never ending, and exploring something new and fun is always an option. Some people worship NYC, Paris, London and Milan as the most chic and fabulous places on Earth. I don’t disagree on that point, but I will be honest: there’s not a single city that I love more than Toronto!

I love everything about it, including how friendly people are. I love our National Ballet and Opera, our Royal Ontario Museum, our Art Gallery of Ontario, Casa Loma and our CN Tower. I love Toronto fashion week and alternative fashion week I love everything that comes with awesome city.

23Sep/0924

Star Gaze…

Hello Darlings,

Some times everyone needs a new spin on a favorite... in which case for me it's jeans. Although I worship them and have over a dozen pairs, I am slowly getting tired of "the look".

So, I ventured out to find a pair of skinny trousers...and landed on this fabulous pair of Rag & Bone's.Not only are they super comfy but they also have that perfect touch of a classic trouser with a super neat cuff. I fell in love the moment I laid my eye on them.. they're also a very interesting color of cobalt blue! One word: LOVE! They are a perfect balance of classic and modern.I find it very beautiful that they are handmade since the craftsmanship is perfection.

I am wearing: Rory Beca Silk Blouse; Rag & Bone Trousers; BCBG Max Azria Tuxedo Blazer; Bloch Patent Leather Ballerinas; Juicy Couture Laptop Bag; A.V.Max Cuff; Diamond Studs.

To add a touch of femininity I went for my new silk Rory Beca blouse... which I also picked up this weekend. It is so beautiful and delicate and I love the details: a ruffled bib and double layer of semi-sheer silk. Topping it all off is my BCBG Max Arzia tuxedo blazer.

This outfit was ideal for class and my desert/coffee date with my bestie, Natalia. The day was complete by my chance encounter with the adorable Joe Jonas and the stunning Natasha Henstridge...these were my first star run ins and I still don't understand people's fascination with celebrities-to me, they are just people...absolutely nothing fascinating. So exactly why are people so obsessed with celebs? :S


Well, I am off to do homework for my architecture class and then walk my baby ( aka my Cocker Spaniel, Johnny)...

P.S. Darlings, Thank you so much for your support on my glasses dilemma. Your words have given me the courage to wear my glasses out on a coffee-date with Andrew.Huge step!
I wish you all a stunning day!!!

With Love...
Marta
13Sep/0918

Super Stripe….

Hello Darlings,

After a weekend of celebrating my birthday with the girlies and a Saturday night fun with Andrew, I finished off my weekend with a quick-y shopping trip to pick up some skincare and make-up and a coffee with my bestie, Natalie :)
As for the outfit for today, well simple and comfortable was the key... plus, I was just too eager to wear my new cardi :) Honestly, my obsession with stripe is becoming too obvious!

I am wearing: Jeanne Pierre Cardi; H&M Tank; American Apparel Disco Pants; Bloch Patent Leather Ballerinas;Gustto Cokera Purse; A.V.Max Cuff; Chanel Sunnies.

Also I am very excited to share with you this The Supermelon feature "Fashion Blogger Fall Picks" including my six must haves for autumn...(click on the title to see the rest of the feature)

Marta, WithLoveGabrielle.blogspot.comFor the past few seasons, for me it has been all about value, quality and timeless appeal. Items that are temporary no longer interest me; items that are valuable and are going to withstand the test of time are what I am looking to “invest” in. What I want are modern classics, items that will become staples in my wardrobe. For this season my top five essentials are:

1. Long Sleeve Metallic Mini Dress
Although seen all over the fall/winter 09 runway, it is an item that will make you feel fabulous and the center of attention for seasons to come.

2. Simple Sweater Dress
They are versatile and quite unexpected, and when paired with warm cashmere tights they are incredibly cozy and warm. Cashmere and wool sweater dresses are a must.

3. Fabulous Booties
Simply because they are fabulous! They bring an entire outfit together, giving it a simple and effortless look.4. Leather Jacket
This baby is a classic in its own right.

5. Cashmere Scarf
A perfect addition to any outfit. Luxurious, functional, and timeless.

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Well, I am off to read a little bit about Cubism...bouncing back into my student life and the idea of non-stop studying has been a tiny bit challenging. Plus, figuring out what to hear has been a total pain :S

P.S. I apologize for taking so long to respond to e-mails and comments...I am doing my best :) Thank you darling for all of the support that you have shown me!!!! Kisses!

I wish you all a beautiful day!!!

With Love...

Marta

10Sep/0923

From Las Vegas With Love, part 2…

Hello Darlings,

First of all I would like to thank you all for your support on yesterdays post!!! I feel like this is my place to stand up for my personal beliefs and voice my opinion on certain matters, I'm not very good at overlooking things :P Thank you for your sweet words! I adore my blog and more so I adore the new friends ( all of you darlings) that I have made because of it :)

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This is the last part of my Las Vegas posts!

In the place of sunshine, hotness and dryness... the only thing that is left for a girl to do is stock up on sunscreen, purchase a floppy hat, consume ridiculous amounts of water and most importantly enjoy the beautiful weather :)

Lounging by the pool was probably the best way to beat the heat...and of course, finally have a chance to wear my new Brette Sandler silk cover up.

I am wearing: Brette Sandler silk cover up; Moschino Bikini ; Christian Audigier One piece swinsuit; Juicy Couture Flats; Coach Wristlet; Large Floppy hat from a random store.
Align Center

I am wearing:Kerrigan by Daryl K silk dress; Ruthie Davis Swarovski Crystal shoes; Coach Clutch

Despite a fact that I cannot handle heat and hate walking long distances, I made sure to bring 6 pair of heels and only 3 pairs of flats... brilliant thinking on my part :P Lesson learned,blisters happen after few hours of walking and dancing.... and those fabulous shoes you love so much become a torture device!!! ( Outchy) After experiencing my first blisters in many years after the first night of fun, I resorted to wearing my trusty flats up until the point of going to clubs.

I am wearing: Alexander Wang Chiffon Dress; Juicy Couture Flats;Coach Wristlet;Luc Kieffer Ring

Honestly, at first I could not bear the thought of wearing my favorite Wang dress or a newly favorite tutu skirt with flats... however, not only did I learn to love it, but I also came to understand that it could look undeniably cute and gives a certain touch of effortlessness to the entire ensemble..Honestly, I think that flats can look as wonderful as high heels... I know that this is the worst thing to say, since fashion dictates high heels is the most fabulous thing ever. I do find that flats are the best substitute that is just as beautiful and chic as high heels :) Don't get me wrong, I LOVE high heels... but being a student it is not very comfortable or practical. I do spoil myself by wearing heels to lecture only when I drive.

What do you darlings think? Can flats be as fabulous as high heels?
The big lessons learned:
- Heels are not worth wearing if you're going to cripple your feet!
- Wearing a floppy hat is a smart choice, not only to shield your face from the harmful rays but also to avoid heat stroke!

I am wearing: Maggie Ward Dress; Juicy Couture Flat; Gustto Cokera Purse; A.V. Max Cuff; Floppy Hat from a random store.

As for the rest of the vacation that was spent exploring, eating and lounging... I spent my time in flats and more casual attire! Including my all time favorite Meggie Ward dress... that I swear by! It looks amazing with everything, got to love those pieces that offer you endless variety. From casual to night out this dress is ideal!

I am wearing: Club Monaco Semi-Sheer Top; Abercrombie& Fitch Shorts; Bloch Patent Leather Flats; Chanel Sunglasses.

To top of almost every outfit I wore my floppy hat, religiously. I get heat strokes within minutes of being out in the hot weather. I never thought that I could pull it off or feel comfortable wearing it, but I fell in love. I know that fedora is a hat of the moment, but it made me feel like a teenage boy and really did not suit my style. Soooooo many people make it look a-m-a-z-i-n-g, I just felt awkward unfortunately. In comparison to the fedora, the floppy hat made me feel like a lady :)

By the way, if you're ever in Las Vegas check out the Bellagio fountains... I could watch them over and over and so I did. Andrew got pretty iffy about it :P Honestly, they are sooo stunning (click on the video belong and turn on the speakers). Also check out the Eiffel Tower, the views from there is beyond AMAZING!

I'm off to study French...school is back and stress is already building up!

I wish you all a stunning day!!!

With Love...
Marta
8Sep/0925

From Las Vegas With Love, part 1….

Hello Darlings,

Vegas was AMAZING... every minute felt like a second, and a day went by in a glance. So much to do, so much to see... it was actually overwhelming and deciding what to wear everyday and night was even more difficult. Overall, I had the time of my life while trying to stay cool, relaxed and totally entertained. I did avoid gambling, since I am not a firm supporter,neither is Andrew (luckily)!!!

Andrew and I stayed at the charming Paris Hotel and were very pleased with it...very beautiful and unique!!!

♥Birthday Celebration!!!!

My birthday consisted of an awesome dinner at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant which beautifully overlooked the Bellagio fountains, followed by a trip to VooDoo Lounge,then XS nightclub (thanks to those of you who recommend it, it was perfect!!!)

I settled for a simple outfit that made me feel like a ballerina, nothing too over exposing but just perfect for me!!!

I am wearing: Wilfred nude bustier tee; Free People Ribbon Skirt;Be&D Antonia Pumps; Coach Wristlet; Diamond Studs, A.V.Max Cuff.

I did switch the shoes, since I was starting to feel pain wearing my Be&D patent leather shoes ( I find patent leather shoes always less comfortable) and settled for my new Perdo Gardia's.

Vegas Exploring!

On the first day that we arrived, it was all about exploring and familiarizing ourselves with the area and the shopping scene. We also had a chance to check out "Warhol and friends" exhibit at the Bellagio and although it was small the pieces were well selected to represent his period.

In terms of shopping, I mostly stayed away except stopping by the Chanel store to pick up some make up and to buy myself a floppy hat at some random hat store (I'll show it in the second part of my Vegas posts).


As for the outfit, I stayed comfortable with a classic black and white combination... I mostly stayed away from looking too casual.

I am wearing: Susana Monaco Top; Talula Shorts; Bloch Patent Leather Flats; Chanel Sunglasses; Gustto Cokera Purse; A.V. Max Cuff; Diamond Studs.

Road Trip to Grand Canyon and Hover Dam!

I would say that my favorite part of the Las Vegas vacation was the trip to Grand Canyon and Hover Dam.... nothing beats the experience :) It had become one of those life long memories that are always a joy to look back on and create a need to go back to :)

Andrew and I rented a highlander and ventured out on a 5 hour drive down the deserts of Nevada and Arizona...the drive was the MOST beautiful experience ever! I've never enjoyed being in a car as much as this, it was just breathtaking. It even rained in the desert which was probably one of the coolest experiences ever!

If I could recommend one thing to do-this would be it, or travel to the Grand Canyon as a separate vacation... which I am hoping to do sometime ( go hiking, camping and rock climbing in the canyon)!

As for the outfit, I settled for a loose long sleeve top, mainly so that my shoulders wouldn't burn. Denim shorts and my oxfords... simple and easy! No fuss! I also chose to tie my hair back, it is impossible to have your hair looking great in such an environment without fixing it every hour or so and who needs that on a road trip. So for me it was a pony with a bow headband!

I am wearing:Wilfred top; Abercrombie&Fitch Shorts; Candela Tokyo Oxfords;Ray Ban Wayfarers; H&M Bow Headband.

The trip was perfect! I couldn't have asked for more...well, driving back as the sun was setting over the desert was a cherry on top of a perfect day!

More pictures are coming up... in the next post!I hardly had the time to sit back and enjoy an espresso!
I did unpack my luggage which was rummaged through by United States Transportation Security Administration. Apparently my hair straightener and curler were suspicious :P (according to the letter found in my luggage). The locks were cut off and everything was a total mess including my make-up kit... Who could have thought that shoes and beauty supplies are a security threat? Did you hear that Chanel,Michael Kors and Conair... your products are dangerous! HAHAHAHA.... I am just kidding! I am all for being safe!!!

My university lectures start tomorrow and I am still tired and exhausted!!!

P.S. Darlings, bare with me...I promise that I will do my best to reply to all of the comments and e-mails as soon as I can!!! Pretty Thank You!!!

I wish you all a beautiful day!!!
With Love...
Marta
15Jul/0923

Shorts=Complicated…

Bonjour mes amis!!! Comment vas-tu?

Shorts=Complicated. Finding a pair of shorts for me was a never ending mission until I came upon these Wilfred babies. In search for a perfect pair I've tried all... the cute classic cut that looks prim and proper, the distressed über short shorts that hardly covered my bottom, and looks grunge, the boyfriend shorts that looked laid back, and countless other styles. None of them worked for me!!! Sure they looked alright but they were simply not me. I will not buy an item because I simply like it, that item need to fell like it's ME. And this pair WAS ME!!! YAYAY... mission impossible, made possible.
Honestly, darlings finding these silky babies yesterday was a blessing. It was all thanks to my wonderful mom who picked them out and nearly forced me to try them on.They are breezy, silky, neutral colored and are an ideal addition to my summer wardrobe.A unique take on a summer classic. Easy to dress up and easy to dress down, for me this summer is all about effortless simplicity. Plus they were on sale from $60 to $50... not a huge difference but it is better than nothing.
I am wearing: Wilfred Silk Shorts; Abercrombie&Fitch tee; Wilfred Sweater; Bloch Patent Leather Flats; Marc Jacobs Sunglasses; Gustto Cokera Purse; Pearl earrings (gift from parents); Diamond ring courtesy Ice.com jewelers.
Today I discovered a beautiful botanical garden exactly 5 minutes away from home. If only I had known that such beauty exists so close by... I would have spent all of those hours reading Vanity Fair in there. I am down 650 pages about 50 more to go :)

Also, I would like to send out a special THANK YOU to two very wonderful blogger's: Little Rus at Fashion Tidbits and That Girl at Forty Not Out for the lovely awards!!!! Thank you darlings :D

P.S.I am truly overwhelmed at how supportive you've been of my Elle Canada contest pages, for that I would like to THANK each and every single one of you.
... I HAVE ADDED A NEW LOOK. If you haven't had a chance to check them out ... Click HERE.Thanks a million!!! If I actually win this contest, I will definitely have a little surprise for you darlings as a thank you - This is the part I am most excited about!


I wish you all a beautiful Wednesday!!!
With Love...
Marta
14Jul/0935

From day to night…

Hello Darlings,
Well today was rather a relaxing and fun day.... First, I had a shopping date with my mommy and later a Starbucks date with Andrew.

DAY...

As my favorite stores continue to have amazing sales, I continue to slowly pick up items that will transition me into the fall. Yup, I always buy ahead.

Today, I stopped by quite a few stores in Yorkdale, including Zara and I must admit I was in shock. The store looked like a tornado went through it, I've never see much a mess before. The clothe were on the floor, in big piles on the tables and scattered all over the place. I mean really... just because something is on sale does not mean that it is any less valuable. As I walked around the store not being able to wrap my head around... I felt disappointed. I've heard amazing things about Zara from other blogger's, but the way I saw it today and the was customers were completely neglected was enough to discourage me from going back there for a LONG time.

So my question goes out to you my darlings, would terrible organization of a store and poor customer service discourage you from going back to it or from buying there(in that moment/future)???

Personally, I was so irritated by the mess.... I had to leave. I am not very picky about these things, but it was ridiculous. I've seen a mess during boxing day but nothing like this.

EVENING...
As for today's outfit, well I love wearing clothe that do not require much effort and transition from day to night. I am a firm believer that it is better to be overdressed then under-dressed :) . That's mainly the reason why I love AA Disco pants, they are unique and totally spice up any outfit. The only difference that I settled for is my hair, I put in into a neat ponytail and added a cute bow headband-not sure why I did it, but I did :P

I am wearing: Susana Monaco Top; American Apparel Disco Pants;Mackage Leather Jacket; Bloch Patent Leather flats; Gustto Cokera Purse; Accessories&Beyond Bracelets ( wore during the day); A.V. Max Cuff (wore in the evening); diamond studs ( wore in the evening); H&M headband.

P.S.Thank you all for your support of my Elle Canada pages... If you haven't had a chance to check them out... Click HERE.Thanks a million!!! If I actually win this contest, I will definitely have a little surprise for you darlings as a thank you - This is the part I am most excited about!


I wish you all a lovely day!!!
With Love...
Marta
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