Category Archives: Uncategorized

Trending: Camo Print

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Who would of thought that those three-quarter camo print shorts from high school, lost deep in your closet, would be a current fashion trend? (Clarification: I mean the print, and not the three-quarter shorts, of course.)

The print, obviously borne for military and hunting purposes, made its way into the fashion realm more prominently after following the successes of past military-inspired ensembles that included the trench coat and military boot.

I’ve been noticing the trend on both men and women alike. It’s worn in many different ways as seen on the local hipster walking down queen street west and even on the professional corporate employee (especially if they have a knack for style). There’s no denying the print itself – on a coat, sweater, shirt, shoes or skinny pants –  is a statement piece. And, for it to be considered the least bit attractive and stylish, camo print pieces should worn with simple and plain articles. Too many shades and patterns worn all at once, can be busy on the eyes. Don’t torture the onlooker.

You don’t have to search high and low to find a good camo print piece. If you’re looking to be on a budget, check out your nearest surplus store – I’m just skeptical whether or not the fit would be what you’re looking for. I’ve been searching for my own camo print jacket and came across these great finds, all differing in style and fit:

(L-R: Club Monaco, Urban Outfitters, Asos)

All in all, you can already figure that the camo print is definitely a tricky pattern to pull off. It’s bold and modish yet, versatile. It can be dressed up or dressed down. Club Monaco does an excellent job making the camo jacket super workwear chic.  Either way you know what they often say in fashion, “it’s not what you wear, its how you wear it”. It’s such a must-have piece to have in your closet. Don’t be discouraged by the word “trend”; I think we’re going to see these styles run longer than most others.

Let’s just say, I think it’s not such a bad idea if you consider joining the army.

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Filed under Fashion, Lifestyle, Shopping, Style, Uncategorized

A Vagabond, though Rooted in Style

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Don’t call it a comeback. Sorry folks! I’ve been missing in action for the last couple of weeks so that may explain the delay in my posts. My, have I missed this.

It’s summer and what most people do when they have some time off is: travel. Who wouldn’t? I heard an awesome quote a few days ago that goes like this:

“The World is a Book. When you do not travel, you only read one page”

As an aspiring self-proclaimed vagabond,  I want to read this book from cover to cover. Even twice.

This summer, I will be travelling to Europe in August, specifically Ireland and Scotland for 2 weeks to visit my sister and her husband who currently reside there.

I like to think I travel a lot, maybe not as much as I want since expenses hold me back, but for the most part, I try to. And, most times when I do travel, I rarely find the time, patience and even space to pack my whole closet – thus, finding ways to be super stylish but also comfortable (especially for the sight-seeing adventures) when you’re in the streets of Paris or Milan seem impractical unless you’re Beyonce or Mariah Carey (who wears 5 inch heels to Disney World? I’m just saying.)

The point is when you travel, you pack light, you pack for comfort and you also pack for the weather.

It would be easy packing for Mexico or any other hot destination because the majority of your luggage would be bathing suits. But Ireland and Scotland in August? Hmmm. That’s a tough one.

In Ontario, Canada where I reside, our summer’s are fairly hot and humid. But in Ireland and Scotland, apparently it’s not so much. Word has it – it rains. Frequently. Often. Maybe, all the time with hints of sun light here and there.

From what I hear though and what I’ve read, all that rain makes Ireland and Scotland what is is; Lush, Green and Beautiful. My sister Nikki has reassured me the scenery is breathtaking.

Is this a perfect opportunity for photo sessions with breathtaking scenery then? I think yes!

But you better believe it –  I plan to be a little stylish tourist ready for the weather and the rolling green hills!

Below, I have compiled 4 different outfits I would probably see myself wearing when traveling to Ireland and Scotland.

Who says you can’t be damn cute in the rain?


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T.Babaton – Bergen Blouse in Abstract Animal (originally $120) - www.aritzia.com

T.Babaton – Alvin Shorts (originally $110) - www.aritzia.com

Printed Lace Raincoat (originally $89.32) - www.freepeople.com

Dilute Leopard Loafers (originially $80.00) - www.Anthropologie.com

 The Kinney Reader Eye Frames ($200-500) - www.needsupplyco.com

 Gold Arc bracelet ($80.00) – www.shopsupplyroom.com

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Taluta Trooper Jacket – in Surplus (originally $120) - www.aritzia.com

 V-Fringe Brown Purse ($25.00) – www.brandymelvilleusa.com/

 Always in Bloom Dress ($34.00) – www.shopconversationpieces.com/

 Sam Edelman Lisle Ankle Boot (originally $160) - www.urbanoutfitters.com

 Max & Chloe – Emily Elizabeth Jewelery Polished Fern Leaf Bangle ($98) - www.maxandchloe.com

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Lizzie Fortunato Medicine Woman Necklace (approximately $200-500) - www.francesmay.com

 Citizens of Humanity – Dylan – San Marco Denim Pants ($236) - www.aritzia.com

 Vivid Beginning Oxfords ($79) - www.Anthropologie.com

Super Duper Strength –  Karen Walker Sunglasses - www.karenwalkereyewear.com

 Sail Me Away Shirt ($21.00) – http://www.conversationpieces.com

 Fashion Rebel Vest by Strong and Dickerson ($78.00) - www.shopconversationpieces.com

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River Island Beaded Tribal Belt ($24.86) - www.asos.com

Loeffler Randall Rain Boot ($150) - www.loefflerrandall.com/

 Community Prana Sweater – Finch (originally $85) - www.aritzia.com

 Wilfred Wallis Skirt ($125) - www.aritzia.com

The Classic – Cambridge Satchel Company ($150-250) - www.cambridgesatchel.co.uk/

 Anthropologie Hertiage Rain Coat - www.Anthropologie.com

 Deep Freeze Karen Walker Eyewear - www.karenwalkereyewear.com

Jean Paul Gaultier Umbrella ($75.00) - www.openingceremony.us

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July 18, 2012 · 15:59

When was the last time you heard yourself breathe?

Posted by: Hana Gabrielle

Pardon me. I apologize – I haven’t blogged in a few weeks. Let’s just say I was out-of-commission. For the last couple of weeks, putting words on a paper, or I should say putting words on the screen seemed a somewhat daunting task. I’ll tell you why.

Candid, I normally am. But, just recently I am actually shy and embarrassed to admit for once that I found myself in a deep, dark, lonely and crippling hole. I felt so incapable of controlling once closeted fears, so much so that I was paralyzed, unable to fight the dark thoughts that clouded my mind. I was so forgone in my own mental, emotional and  psychological chaos that I forgot and was afraid to live. I am and probably still undeniably so, experiencing a state of constant anxiety and panic. Anxiety and panic over what? I’m not quite sure.

I can’t quite pinpoint my problems (if any, even exist or if they are merely a figment of my imagination).

I consider myself the average person, going through the natural worries of being a freshman in adulthood. A quarter-life crisis, is what they call it. I’m sure I’m not the only one who raises the questions: What am I going to do for the rest of my life? How much money am I going to make? Where am I going to live? When will I get married? How am I going to survive?

Typical, I reckon.

So why the exaggerated stress over worries that are quite common? I think it may be how one handles stress. Not everyone can cope with stress in nonchalant ways. I’m definitely not one to do so.

Looking beyond doctors and medicine, the question really is: how do I deal with magnified stress on my own?

Answer #1: Speak, Read and Educate yourself

I was searching online looking for forums and blogs that would help me understand this anxiety I had. People that could relate or at least share advice on how to handle stress. It is quite helpful and there’s someone always willing to talk to you. The most interesting piece of information I got, was when I was scrolling through my twitter feed and came across a tweet that read: “If you’re stressed, read this.” This blog post was absolutely brilliant and thought provoking. It made me really dig deep when it brought up the question, “when was the last time you heard yourself breathe?”  (click image below to read the post).

Answer #2: Yoga

I can’t believe I am only hopping on this wagon now. Yoga, is anything and everything I was missing in my life. It’s unfortunate that I only realized its value in decreasing with the potential of eliminating stress all together in my life. For all those searching  for peace and tranquility, this Hindu practice of mental, physical and spiritual discipline will be healing and rewarding. I’m no pro yet, but the desire to be or at least on par with other yogis is definitely there. My good friend, Sarah Mariano (www.sarahmariano.com) who is a fitness and yoga instructor is kind enough to teach me the power of yoga and all its benefits. In my next post, I’ll show you guys how I’m keeping up in that practice.

Answer #3: Breathe girl, breathe

That is probably the most simple, yet idiotic answer I can share with you. As a person who has constant anxiety and panic attacks, I know how it may be when you’re having an episode – inhaling and exhaling may not always seem to work – the panic, worry and anxiety are still there. It irritating when people say to “breathe” or “relax”. It’s easier said than done, I understand. Your mind is so powerful that it can work for you and even against you. That’s the beauty of it, isn’t it? But to get over an episode and even to overcome stress or a stressful moment is to breathe (no huffs and puffs here, but slow breaths…count if you must). Call it cliche or amateur advice if you will, but your mind, body and soul will thank you for it. I’ve already received my thank-yous.

Breathe. I’ll be back to post again soon.

Happy image via momzynoor.tumblr.com, relax image via angelinapillay.tumblr.com, and breathe image via va-nilla-c-o-l-a.tumblr.com.

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