The X: Spring 2022

I am constantly soaking up inspiration, finding new favourites, and, let’s face it: my product lust knows no bounds. ‘The X’ round ups are a tidy way to share ten things I’m loving this season.

I. Dôen Nightgowns

Dôen Odessa Nightgown

Ever wish you had something to sleep in that felt both weightless and cozy? Wish no more: the Dôen nightgowns are just that good. Year round, they keep me comfortable and feeling very elegant at bedtime. My husband proclaims, “Oh look! A princess!” every time I wear the Lovisa one. The Odessa is also a hit. Maybe I’ll be bold this summer and try to style them for daytime with a slip. Fair warning: they are indeed sheer.

II. Indie Music

I listen to the same genres pretty consistently. According to Spotify, it all falls under “Alternative R&B.” Lately, as things warm up and the sun shines a little later, I’ve been drawn toward upbeat little indie tunes. For a taste, listen to Right Down the Line by Sam Evian (fully influenced by Euphoria. Labrinth is a genius). For more, check out the Salon 1 playlist I made for an intimate dinner party.

III. Hoka One One

I developed heel pain* after running and doing HIIT classes in old running shoes. Let this be a reminder to replace your running shoes. I went to Blacktoe Running in search of shoes that would ease the pain and get me moving again. I highly recommend this shop if you’re in Toronto: the staff are super knowledgable and they have a curated line of quality items. I got the Hoka One One Recovery Slides to wear as slippers on my hardwood floors and a new pair of Bondi 7 running shoes. Heel pain is history, and they look good (okay, ugly good).

*Plantar fasciitis, if you wanna get medical.

IV. Rose Inc Blush in Dahlia

Cream blushes have been a game changer for me after years of dedication to bronzer. A few dabs of concealer and some blush are all I need most days. It all began with Glossier’s Cloudpaint in Storm (still a very natural go-to for me) and now I’ve added Rose Inc.’s Dahlia to the lineup. It wakes my face right up, is totally foolproof to apply, and works just as beautifully as a lip product. Pro tip: Always apply on the nose for a more natural sun kissed look.

V. Parrot Tulips

My tulips are already poking out and, while I won’t turn my nose up at any, the past few years my heart really sings for parrot tulips. The interesting colour striations and variations, ruffled petals, and fresh organic shapes are always intriguing. I went a little crazy planting this fall, so here’s hoping a beautiful display shapes up in the next few months. Until then, I’ll be picking up fresh $7 bouquets at my local flower shop.

VI. Empire of Pain by Patrick Radden Keefe

The opioid crisis has been taking lives and making headlines for years now. Many frontline teams have said it’s worse than COVID and should be treated just as seriously. Empire of Pain looks at the roots of the public health crisis. Namely, the Sackler family who made their fortune off of the highly addictive drug. I’m not usually into non-fiction, but the compelling portraits and impressive reporting have me hooked and learning along the way. It’s an in-depth look at the systemic incentives and failures that are too often and easily exploited at great cost to our humanity.

VII. Natural Nails

In the summer and fall of 2021, I got into shellac, sporting some fun nail art and trying out a few different nail shapes. This winter has been all about rehabbing the damage and getting my nails back. I opted for a ‘nude’ or ‘negative space’ manicure for my honeymoon this February to avoid any obvious chipping and am super happy with how my nails have bounced back. Sally Hansen’s Complete Care 7-in-1 Nail Treatment is giving me a little shine and extra strength. Now we’ll see how many days until one breaks. ;)

VIII. Linen

There are a few objects and materials that I would describe as “transportive”: they have the unique ability to transport you to another (head)space and reorient you with the world. Linen, for me, is definitely one such material. I invested in an oversized black linen button down - fully #influenced by Jamie of Mademoiselle - and LOVE it. It’s a perfect beach cover up for an upcoming vacation but also feels so great through winter and spring. It’s comfortable and breathable, structured and easy - I feel like an art teacher or Diane Keaton when I wear it. I’m excited to style it this summer as a light ‘jacket’ with a bra top.

IX. Piercings

After a few new tattoos last year, this year I switched my attention to piercings. I had wanted a little more oomph on my earlobes for a few years now, smitten with the concept of the ‘curated ear’ … but the moment never felt right. In February, I finally took the plunge. I started with two new lobe piercings in one ear, based on a friend’s advice to make it easier to sleep (and heal). I followed up with one more on the other side. I’m quite pleased with the results and excited about all the styling potential and variations. Now, to be patient and let them fully heal before I set my sights on another.

X. Friends

It feels so nourishing to be more social after distancing and months of sub-zero temps. I’ve been leaning into hosting dinner parties, taking any opportunity to celebrate, and bringing together different friend groups to make new connections. It’s so nice seeing my favourite faces, hearing what’s been inspiring or troubling others lately, and being reminded of all the ways we are quite simply a bunch of humans doing our best. As they say on Fleabag: “We are all we have” - and it’s so good to have each other close again.

Until next time,