2.26.2013
2.25.2013
2013 Academy Awards Red Carpet
Every year I eagerly wait until the end of the awards season for the Academy Awards. I love the outfits on the red carpet and I look forward to see who will be awarded for their great performances.
This year, the red carpet was chalk full of celebrities and the Oscars went to deserving actresses and actors. In particular, I appreciated that Jennifer Lawrence won Best Actress for her role in Silver Linings Playbook; no one was more deserving. I was disappointed that Sally Fields lost to Anne Hathaway because her performance in Lincoln was breathtaking. However, from what I have heard Anne's performance was stunning and she deserved the award. Best picture went to Argo, I was surprised and somewhat dismayed that it didn't go to Lincoln or Zero Dark Thirty. All in all, it was a good broadcast and I am looking forward to tuning in next year!
This year, the red carpet was chalk full of celebrities and the Oscars went to deserving actresses and actors. In particular, I appreciated that Jennifer Lawrence won Best Actress for her role in Silver Linings Playbook; no one was more deserving. I was disappointed that Sally Fields lost to Anne Hathaway because her performance in Lincoln was breathtaking. However, from what I have heard Anne's performance was stunning and she deserved the award. Best picture went to Argo, I was surprised and somewhat dismayed that it didn't go to Lincoln or Zero Dark Thirty. All in all, it was a good broadcast and I am looking forward to tuning in next year!
Best Dressed!
Jennifer Lawrence.
Catherine Zeta Jones.
Amy Adams.
Jennifer Hudson.
Naomi Watts.
Sandra Bullock.
2.23.2013
Style Watch: Brit Awards 2013
I have been quite busy this week, but I'd to do a catch-up post of the 2013 Brit Awards red carpet. I am pleased to say that some of my favourite celebs were dressed to the nines and even won a few awards.
Taylor Swift.
Rita Ora's [after party].
Jourdan Dunn.
Aluna Francis.
2.20.2013
Shoe of the Week: Stuart Weitzman
When making the transition from law student to lawyer, footwear is important. When you're entering an office setting it's best to keep in mind that footwear should be more conservative. Sure your open toe pumps and the vibrant colours of this season will likely be out of place. A good rule about what is appropriate is to look to what the most senior woman in the office is wearing. If she is rocking three inch spike pumps in neon yellow (as have been popular for the past couple of summers) then you can likely wear them too. If on the other hand, she is wearing black, closed toe, two inch kitten heels you will want to mirror this level of conservative. Or, if you're like me you'd like a safe middle ground.
To this end, I'm highlighting Stuart Weitzman's "Platswoon" pumps in Adobe Aniline. The pumps are light pink, which will add colour to your outfit without being too flashy. The heel is 3 3/4" with a 3/4" platform; this will give you some height while still being comfortable to walk in. Trust me, it's important that you're able to walk around an office all day.
So without further ado...
To this end, I'm highlighting Stuart Weitzman's "Platswoon" pumps in Adobe Aniline. The pumps are light pink, which will add colour to your outfit without being too flashy. The heel is 3 3/4" with a 3/4" platform; this will give you some height while still being comfortable to walk in. Trust me, it's important that you're able to walk around an office all day.
So without further ado...
2.19.2013
Style Watch: Beyonce
In this week's style watch edition I'd like to highlight Beyonce. After having a baby last year, Beyonce is making her come back. And come back it is; singing the national anthem at Obama's inauguration, performing at the Superbowl half time show, the cover of Vogue, a 2013 world tour and release of her HBO documentary "Life Is But a Dream". Clearly Beyonce is a busy lady and to celebrate her accomplishments I am re-posting her latest photos in Vogue and the Mrs. Carter world tour promo.
2.17.2013
Frugal.
One of the upsides of the rise of internet shopping is that you can compare products. Especially when you have expensive taste but a limited budget. Forever 21 reproduces similar bags, shoes and jewelry of more expensive brands.
If you're looking for expensive design on a limited budget try these looks.
If you're looking for expensive design on a limited budget try these looks.
Studded Shoulder Bag similar to Valentino's spring collection.
Studded Messenger Bag similar to Steve Madden.
Chain Toggle Bracelet similar to the link bracelets sold at J Crew.
-- JJ
2.16.2013
Sparkle.
The weather can't decide whether it wants to be winter or spring. The latest bout of strange weather has convinced me that Canada will be facing climate change consequences sooner rather than later. With the temperature rising this week I have been looking to my spring shoes and thinking about whether I need a new pair of ballet flats. I usually go for a classic black ballet flat which can be worn with basically everything. This year I would like to make a change and pick up some ballet flats with a little more character. These are the looks that are inspiring me right now...
J Crew.
J Crew.
J Crew.
Kate Spade via Nordstrom.
Kate Spade via Nordstrom.
-- JJ
2.15.2013
New York Fashion Week: Victoria Beckham for Fall
I have profiled Victoria Beckham before as a style icon and today, I'd like to showcase some of her fall 2013 designs. Victoria has stated that this collection is "more affordable", but still meant for women with expensive tastes. She also said that she focused on fabrics and texture... which is evidence with her use of wool. The collection features mostly solid colours and colourblocking. I think that these outfits are a tad conservative in a very vibrant design period, but they are classic.
-- JJ
-- JJ
2.14.2013
A Few Good Men
One of my favourite law related movies is a Few Good Men. Though I've seen this film many times, I enjoy it every time I see it. A few weeks ago when I was flying home from Atlanta, I looked through the classic film section and saw A Few Good Men as an option. Immediately, I put it on and relaxed into my seat for the flight home.
I do not want to go into too much detail about the plot for two reasons. I dislike spoiling plot twists and most people have seen this film and I don't want to bore you. In a nutshell, two marines accidentally kill another marine by performing a "code red" and face court martial. The JAG lawyer assigned, Tom Cruise, is a hot shot who spends more time on the baseball field than in a courtroom. Fearing the two marines will not get a fair trial with Tom Cruise as their lawyer, internal affairs officer Demi Moore gets involved. When the prosecutor, Kevin Bacon, fails to reach a plea bargain, he charges the two marines with a slew of offenses. During Tom Cruise's investigation he discovers that the marines were following their superiors orders in performing the illegal code red and should not be charged with murder. Add in Jack Nicholson as a fiery commander running a tight military base and trying to cover his ass for a political appointment, and you've got yourself a movie.
There are two reasons why A Few Good Men is a great law movie. First, the script is well thought out and mimics real life. As law students, we all know that over 90% of cases settle and most criminal cases are plea bargained. I liked that Tom Cruise and Kevin Bacon battled over the best deal that could be made and that in the end, truth trumped the system. In this case, the facts suggest that the marines should not be charged with an intentional offense because they were simply following orders and did not want to kill their fellow marine. The second reason, the court room scenes were dynamic! You see a young lawyer learn to work the courtroom, and how to cross examine a witness. I especially liked seeing Jack Nicholson best Tom Cruise before backing himself into a corner and admitting he ordered the code red.
Above the law, it's rare that you find an ensemble cast who works so well together. Tom Cruise played the reluctant hero, and I enjoyed him overcome his superior officer and father-like figure Jack Nicholson. Admittedly the token female character, Demi Moore stole many of the scenes she was in. I particularly enjoyed when she puts Tom Cruise in his place early on and challenges him to become a better lawyer. I think the film would have been better if Demi Moore's character was lead counsel, as it seems that sexism in the military was the only reason they refused her as counsel.
My main dislike? Having some experience with military personnel, I know how the hierarchy works, and how officers interact with one another. As Tom Cruise's superior officer, Demi Moore would have been treated with much more deference and respect than shown in the film. In particular, Tom Cruise's character would only speak when spoken to and would have referred to her by her title. I think the reason the film did not follow the hierarchy was to build Tom Cruise's masculinity and develop his story as the reluctant litigator. More than that, I found this reeked of sexism and was disappointed with the film's treatment of women.
All things considered, I really enjoy A Few Good Men and would encourage you to see if if you haven't yet. I would give it 3.5 out of five stars!
I do not want to go into too much detail about the plot for two reasons. I dislike spoiling plot twists and most people have seen this film and I don't want to bore you. In a nutshell, two marines accidentally kill another marine by performing a "code red" and face court martial. The JAG lawyer assigned, Tom Cruise, is a hot shot who spends more time on the baseball field than in a courtroom. Fearing the two marines will not get a fair trial with Tom Cruise as their lawyer, internal affairs officer Demi Moore gets involved. When the prosecutor, Kevin Bacon, fails to reach a plea bargain, he charges the two marines with a slew of offenses. During Tom Cruise's investigation he discovers that the marines were following their superiors orders in performing the illegal code red and should not be charged with murder. Add in Jack Nicholson as a fiery commander running a tight military base and trying to cover his ass for a political appointment, and you've got yourself a movie. There are two reasons why A Few Good Men is a great law movie. First, the script is well thought out and mimics real life. As law students, we all know that over 90% of cases settle and most criminal cases are plea bargained. I liked that Tom Cruise and Kevin Bacon battled over the best deal that could be made and that in the end, truth trumped the system. In this case, the facts suggest that the marines should not be charged with an intentional offense because they were simply following orders and did not want to kill their fellow marine. The second reason, the court room scenes were dynamic! You see a young lawyer learn to work the courtroom, and how to cross examine a witness. I especially liked seeing Jack Nicholson best Tom Cruise before backing himself into a corner and admitting he ordered the code red.
Above the law, it's rare that you find an ensemble cast who works so well together. Tom Cruise played the reluctant hero, and I enjoyed him overcome his superior officer and father-like figure Jack Nicholson. Admittedly the token female character, Demi Moore stole many of the scenes she was in. I particularly enjoyed when she puts Tom Cruise in his place early on and challenges him to become a better lawyer. I think the film would have been better if Demi Moore's character was lead counsel, as it seems that sexism in the military was the only reason they refused her as counsel.My main dislike? Having some experience with military personnel, I know how the hierarchy works, and how officers interact with one another. As Tom Cruise's superior officer, Demi Moore would have been treated with much more deference and respect than shown in the film. In particular, Tom Cruise's character would only speak when spoken to and would have referred to her by her title. I think the reason the film did not follow the hierarchy was to build Tom Cruise's masculinity and develop his story as the reluctant litigator. More than that, I found this reeked of sexism and was disappointed with the film's treatment of women.
All things considered, I really enjoy A Few Good Men and would encourage you to see if if you haven't yet. I would give it 3.5 out of five stars!
2.12.2013
New York Fashion Week: Tommy Hilfiger for Fall
I don't know about you, but it seems like there is always a fashion week going on somewhere in the world. Paris Fashion Week was just a few weeks ago, and now we have New York Fashion Week! I am pleased that many of my favourite brands are continuing their move into bolder looks and prints.
I am a recent convert to Tommy Hilfiger. Before going into a flagship store in the United States, I limited my preppy look to Vineyard Vines or Brooks Brothers. I am pleased with the quality and wear-ability of the Tommy clothing that I have bought recently, and will be looking forward to picking up more the next time I am in the United States.
In the mean time.... here is a peak at their 2013 Fall Collection!
-- JJ
I am a recent convert to Tommy Hilfiger. Before going into a flagship store in the United States, I limited my preppy look to Vineyard Vines or Brooks Brothers. I am pleased with the quality and wear-ability of the Tommy clothing that I have bought recently, and will be looking forward to picking up more the next time I am in the United States.
In the mean time.... here is a peak at their 2013 Fall Collection!
-- JJ
2.11.2013
Style Watch: 2013 Grammy Awards
2013 Grammy Red Carpet
Carrie Underwood.
Kaley Cuoco.
Taylor Swift.
Beyonce.
Kimbra and Goyte.
-- JJ
2.09.2013
On The Move.
With fresh snow and frigid temperatures, I am dreaming of a vacation. I would settle for anywhere south, but I would love to go back to Georgia for another visit. When I was there in January, the weather was a balmy 23 degrees and I was warm!
I received an email for J Crew today about their spring collection and this delightful tee-shirt was featured. I must admit, on a lazy Saturday I like to wear a tee-shirt with a fun print on it. This one fits the bill because of its anchor design and my love of travel.
I received an email for J Crew today about their spring collection and this delightful tee-shirt was featured. I must admit, on a lazy Saturday I like to wear a tee-shirt with a fun print on it. This one fits the bill because of its anchor design and my love of travel.
J Crew Bon Voyage Tee.
-- JJ
2.08.2013
Checked.
Trend Alert! I have recently noticed a few celebrities wearing checkered clothing. I think it is absolutely adorable, and a strong statement for women to make. Take a look and tell me what you think.
Louis Vuitton Damier Sequins Dress.
Louis Vuitton Scuba Small Damier Dress.
Louis Vuitton SS13.
2.07.2013
Trendy Professional.
As you may know, I am a law student and am avidly building a student-turned-professional wardrobe. I have been buying different types of blouses that I think will work well in private practice. I am often stuck between whether button downs or silk blouses are what is preferred. I guess I won't know until I start working as a lawyer what is most appropriate.
Right now, I am falling down on the side of non-button down blouses. I like this type of blouse because they are more feminine and still look neat. I have long liked Equipment blouses for their professional look and clean lines. This blouse is one of my favourites!
Right now, I am falling down on the side of non-button down blouses. I like this type of blouse because they are more feminine and still look neat. I have long liked Equipment blouses for their professional look and clean lines. This blouse is one of my favourites!
Keira with contrast Lapel Peacoat with Black Contrast Lapel.
2.05.2013
Tips On Saving Time in the Morning.
During the winter I find it very difficult to get out of bed in the morning. When my alarm goes off, it is still dark out and I am not motivated to get out of bed. Lately I have been using these tips to help me make the most of the mornings and give me an extra snooze button of sleep!
1. Plan your outfit the night before (or even on the weekend).
Planning what you will wear ahead of time will cut down on indecision in the mornings and will make you feel less rushed. I have recently started to plan my outfits on the weekend for the full week ahead. Since I enjoy planning my outfits, it's a fun activity on a cold weekend day. I also like to pick five or six outfits in case I don't want to wear a particular outfit on a certain day-- sometimes it's just too cold to wear a dress in the winter!
2. Pack your bag the night before.
When I have an early class or appointment, I know that I will not be working on anything before I leave (unless, of course, it's an exam). I often tell myself that I'll read an extra case or will take more notes, but the truth is I won't. Having recently recognized this about myself, I started packing my backpack or purse the night before I have an early class. In doing so, I do not have to worry about forgetting a textbook, casebook, pencil case or my wallet! It gives me a few extra moments in the morning to enjoy my coffee and the news before I head out.
3. Set out breakfast essentials and coffee the night before.
My biggest morning time saver is preparing breakfast and coffee the night before. It's really easy to decide what fruit I will eat, prepare it in a dish, pour a glass of orange juice and put out my bowl for porridge. I also like to set out my coffee cup, and pour water into the coffee maker. I almost always eat the same thing for breakfast in the winter, so it's really easy to determine what bowls and cutlery I will be using. Doing all of these things takes about five minutes in the evening, but really makes my mornings easier. I am less rushed and do not have to make any decisions about what I will be eating. This also helps to maintain a healthy diet because I make proper and well reasoned food decisions in the evening when I am not rushed for time.
4. Start percolating coffee before getting in the shower.
You'd be surprised how putting the coffee in the filter and turning on the coffee maker before getting in the shower boosts your morning productivity. Alongside setting everything out the night before, this will speed up your morning! When my coffee is ready for when I'm out of the shower and I can sip while getting ready, my morning vastly improves. If you like caffeine half as much as I do, this might be the best tip for you!
5. Wrap your hair to dry in a towel while getting ready.
This tip is pretty common sense, when you get out of the shower wrap your wet hair into a towel turban and secure it on the top of your head. I have used this trick since I was young, and it significantly reduces the time it takes to dry my hair in the morning. I like to keep my hair wrapped while I put on my makeup to let me hair dry even more. I have also read that letting your hair dry 75% before blow drying prevents breakage and heat damage.
1. Plan your outfit the night before (or even on the weekend).
Planning what you will wear ahead of time will cut down on indecision in the mornings and will make you feel less rushed. I have recently started to plan my outfits on the weekend for the full week ahead. Since I enjoy planning my outfits, it's a fun activity on a cold weekend day. I also like to pick five or six outfits in case I don't want to wear a particular outfit on a certain day-- sometimes it's just too cold to wear a dress in the winter!
2. Pack your bag the night before.
When I have an early class or appointment, I know that I will not be working on anything before I leave (unless, of course, it's an exam). I often tell myself that I'll read an extra case or will take more notes, but the truth is I won't. Having recently recognized this about myself, I started packing my backpack or purse the night before I have an early class. In doing so, I do not have to worry about forgetting a textbook, casebook, pencil case or my wallet! It gives me a few extra moments in the morning to enjoy my coffee and the news before I head out.
3. Set out breakfast essentials and coffee the night before.
My biggest morning time saver is preparing breakfast and coffee the night before. It's really easy to decide what fruit I will eat, prepare it in a dish, pour a glass of orange juice and put out my bowl for porridge. I also like to set out my coffee cup, and pour water into the coffee maker. I almost always eat the same thing for breakfast in the winter, so it's really easy to determine what bowls and cutlery I will be using. Doing all of these things takes about five minutes in the evening, but really makes my mornings easier. I am less rushed and do not have to make any decisions about what I will be eating. This also helps to maintain a healthy diet because I make proper and well reasoned food decisions in the evening when I am not rushed for time.
4. Start percolating coffee before getting in the shower.
You'd be surprised how putting the coffee in the filter and turning on the coffee maker before getting in the shower boosts your morning productivity. Alongside setting everything out the night before, this will speed up your morning! When my coffee is ready for when I'm out of the shower and I can sip while getting ready, my morning vastly improves. If you like caffeine half as much as I do, this might be the best tip for you!
5. Wrap your hair to dry in a towel while getting ready.
This tip is pretty common sense, when you get out of the shower wrap your wet hair into a towel turban and secure it on the top of your head. I have used this trick since I was young, and it significantly reduces the time it takes to dry my hair in the morning. I like to keep my hair wrapped while I put on my makeup to let me hair dry even more. I have also read that letting your hair dry 75% before blow drying prevents breakage and heat damage.
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