Word on the street…
Kidding. it was actually an email notification. Prices are being reduced this weekend for that Designer Shoe Sale. Word on the streeet (OKOK… Facebook) says that the sale isn’t too great anywho.
Designer Shoe Sale
Three words that made my eyes boggle out of my head. Designer, shoe and SALE. Together in Princess West world, that means heaven.
When: Thurs. Oct. 23 – Sun. Oct. 26
Hours: Thurs & Fri 10 AM – 9 PM, Sat & Sun 10 AM – 6 PM
Where: The PNE – Rollerland, 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
Admission is FREE.
Pricing is simple:
$59 shoes
$49 sandals
$99 boots
$49 bags
And yes, they take plastic.
It Ain’t Easy Being Pretty!
I don’t know about the rest of you girls, but being “me” is pretty much a full-time job. And by “me” I mean moi primped, groomed and presentable. I’m this close to hiring a PA. (And oh, about $50G’s short of doing, so.) So if like me, you lack a lackey, I suggest planning ahead. This means using the winter months to take advantage of long sleeves and long pants. Winter is the BEST time for laser hair removal. Most places discourage plucking, waxing or threading the areas to be removed, and what better way to hide the awkward moments in between appointments than cute leggings and cozy sweaters? Unless you ENJOY shaving every other day and appointments to the salon every few weeks, then get rid of that unwanted hair for good. I know there’s been controversy about the permanency of laser treatments, but from personal experience – soooo worth it. And no, it ain’t cheap either, but in the long run, you’ll be happy you took the plunge. Hey, it ain’t easy being pretty!
Holiday Dresses in a Hurry
- Sexy Strapless Dress, Bebe
- Draped Bubble Dress, Bebe
- One Shoulder Draped Dress, Bebe (available in XXS)
I’ve got a LOVE-HATE relationship with Bebe – I love how I can always find a pretty little party dress there that’s usually reasonably priced. I hate how everyone else also already did or later will. I have seen the same dresses all over FB and in a city where the selection is sparse, I can’t blame them! But here it is – the best of thus far, and currently in stores if you hurry. I’ve got that strapless lil number at the top – a great go-to for instant old world glamour and can be easily disguised with the right accessories. The other two are great contenders for the holidays, but I’m in no rush to buy them… Less than two months to prep for those holiday parties, girls and time’s a ticking…
Not for the hungry and impatient…
I fortunately had the patience and determination to finally enjoy a meal at the infamous Trattoria Kitchen on West Fourth Ave. It’s so convenient for me and my girls – we’re all within a walking radius of this fine establishment and if all else failed, there were plenty of other choices in the area (Zakkushi, Pinky’s, Las Margaritas). An hour and a half wait and a pitcher of sangria later, we were led to our table. Now it’s not exactly groundbreaking news that Trattoria is one of the hottest restaurants in town, but what I’m about to share with you IS.
The concept of this neighbourhood eatery is a return to traditional family dining and sharing is highly encouraged. While their pasta platters sound deliciously tempting, our waiter divulged a wonderful tidbit of news. He advised us to order half orders of our favourite pastas (for half the price) and make our own pasta platter! What an ingenious idea!! We were so excited and we loved every single dish we ordered. We stuffed ourselves silly and enjoyed yet another pitcher of sangria. Now, if you are planning on venturing over for the first time (and with the atrocious wait times, I’m not surprised) then be sure to order their white wine sangria, the spaghetti and Kobe meatballs, hand-made gnochhi and Tiramisu for dessert. Some stellar appies if your stomach allows it: bruschetta with a chickpea gazpacho and their lamb chops. And always be sure to give your regards to the chef, because they do a phenomenal job serving this Kits hot spot. This place is bumpin so be prepared to enjoy some drinks in the crowded lounge for about double the estimated wait time given.
And it’s a wrap!
Silk/Cashmere Cardigan Wrap BCBG ($216)
Sweater Dress, BCBG
BCBG is my ultimate go-to store. I am always guaranteed to find something I like, something that fits and something(s) I would buy (and DO). So I spent Saturday morning enjoying the SALE (yes SALE!!) – buy one item at 15% off or buy two and get 25% off BOTH items. Totally unplanned, just pulled out in front (parking on Robson!) and I LOVE shopping in the morning – no crowds, no people and the whole store to myself, pretty much!
Can’t say the same about shopping at Zara in Metro – what a zoo! Personally, I hate Metrotown, and avoid it with a passion, but found myself there on a Saturday afternoon of a long weekend, thereby reinforcing my immense dislike of The Mall. However, if you are willing to brave the crowds, I highly suggest checking it out since the winter jackets are out in full force and if you hurry you might still find your size! I found a few adorable ones at Zara priced between $80 and $150 – very decent prices for a winter jacket. Only downside is their extra-smalls aren’t that small and the fit isn’t always reliable.
Best purchase of the day: the black silk/cashmere cardigan wrap from BCBG. I don’t know what it is about these wraps, but they’ve been around FOREVER and honestly, I’ve always always always wanted one. I just didn’t have the wardrobe, nor the sophistication to really pull it off. I lived in Lululemons, Juicy Couture tracksuits & jeans and hoodies. I’ve seen many women I admired wear these wraps with such casual elegance – as if looking fabulous, was effortless, natural, innate. And at last, I found their secret – it’s all in the wrap! I threw it on and immediately had to have it. It was soft, warm and made me look like as if I was stepping off my private jet and looking forlornly around for my PA to lead me into the limo. All this in one little wrap.
PS Another word of advice, now is the time to search for that ever-elusive Christmas party dress before they’re gone. Because looking good is a full-time job and you need to organize and plan ahead or you might end up wearing last year’s Boxing Day purchase. Again.
Till next time Happy Thanksgiving and use the time well…
Fall Must-Have: Boots
Decisions decisions!! I needed a pair of black boots so off for a quickie trip to Seattle. PS I looooove Nordstrom! There were so many to choose from (hence why I <3 Nordstrom) but alas the two finalists were the Seychelles ‘Dirty Laundry’ ($180) and the BCBGirl ‘Mestiso’ ($190) pair. Both great, comfy and wonderfully priced at just under $200. I went with the Seychelles cuz I wanted something a little more slouchy and relaxed and the shiny buckles on the Mestiso just weren’t quite what I was looking for. Pranced around in them today (also great for walking, btw) and immediately got asked where I got them, so thought I’d share this fab pair. Happy Hunting!
Caffeine Cravings
I *heart* coffee moreso since I’ve been travelling and tasted REAL coffee. Prior to, I was perfectly content with my Caramel Macchiatos from Starbucks, but to me it now itastes like they nuked my milk and threw in some bland caffeine. REAL coffee tastes like it smells (rich) and the milk is frothed to creamy perfection. And not many places in Vancouver offer such perfect blends. Caffe Artigiano has been a long-time fave, but it’s also a bit too busy – convenient to take on the go as they have a few locations. If you’re looking for something more unique, I recommend Blondy’s Coffee on 4th Avenue – it’s the perfect escape from Vancouver. The ecelectic blend of furnishings transport you to a whole other world and nothing beats a good coffee inside a great cafe.
