Not A Model Weekly Mantra - Iris Apfel

I first noticed ninety-year old interior designer and fashion icon Iris Apfel in the Bill Cunningham New York documentary.

I was immediately taken with her daring style sense and positive attitude. This definitely wasn't how my grandmother dressed. It seems I'm not the only one taking notice. MAC cosmetics recently collaborated with her for a vibrant new makeup line (available in stores now) and she will appear in the documentary "Advanced Style," that highlights the outrageous fashion choices of older women.

It appears that the "fashion world" primarily focuses on the pre-pubescent girl. Designers hang clothes on teenagers with gangly limbs and baby faces and women feel more pressure to stay young. While I know it's unrealistic to expect Iris Apfel to strut down a runway, I do celebrate her views on beauty and life.

Oh, and don't get me started on those glasses, I can only dream I'm as cool as her in 70 years. This week's Not A Model Mantra comes from the dame herself. 

"I think you can be attractive at any age. I think trying to look like a spring chicken when you’re not makes you look ridiculous. I think if women put some more of the time and money they put on their heads in their heads, they’d be better off. "(iris apfel, as told to into the gloss)

The Vacationer

Imagine winning the paid opportunity to travel to a new place every month for an entire year?

Kate McKenna knows what it’s like. Kate won the Transat Vacationer contest and the chance to travel for a year, spending two weeks away of every month exploring a new place, and the other 2 weeks back at home.

When I sit down with Kate, she instantly tells me that she has a fear of flying, an odd characteristic for someone who applied to be a professional vacationer. She remembers crying her eyes out on a plane with her father right after she was short-listed for the contest. "He asked me what I would do if I actually won?" she says. The competition's main component was a video application, highlighting the person's qualifications that would make them the ultimate vacationer. "I really didn't think I would win," she says.

The thing about Kate is that despite her radiant appearance, (shiny, healthy hair and those bright, clear eyes), she's really earnest. You believe her when she says that she didn't think she would win, even though it's clear why she did.

Her destinations for the year included: Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Turkey. It would be easy to assume that she was followed around with a camera crew during her journey, but she created all of the 111 videos herself. “My photography skills really improved. I was proud of the videos I made. It was a form of storytelling for me,"she says.

Kate explains that she loved reading the comments on her videos and blogs and was surprised by the large response she received from fans. Every adventure she participated in (from hot air ballooning in Turkey, to Edinburgh castle touring in Scotland) could be purchased through Transat.

While her whirlwind year-long adventure would leave any person reminiscing about sandy beaches or volcano climbing she explains, “Destinations are amazing, but it’s about the people." Finally, I ask her (warning: cliche interview question alert) to describe her entire experience in one word.

Kate waits a moment, swishes the question around in her head and responds, "Decadent."

To read all about Kate's adventures, head over to vacationerwanted.com and check out some of her photos below.

Streets in Havana, Cuba

 Dancers in Dominican Republic

 Fishing village in Puerto Morelos, Mexico

 Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey

The Kit Beauty Post - Cake Milk Made

With the cold weather in full swing, my most recent blog ambition post for The Kit focuses on keeping those hands soft. Enjoy!

I can’t stand hand cream. I hate the greasy feeling. I hate the feeling of not being able to touch my phone after, or my face, or my computer. The list goes on.

While I’ve tried to keep my hands shielded from the cold in the winter with gloves, it hasn’t been enough. I will endure chapped, cracked, rough old lady hands, rather than get into a daily routine of putting hand cream on. Okay, I apologize; I bet old ladies have softer hands than me.

Then I met Cake Beauty’s Milk Made Velveteen Hand Cream. The cream was a gift from my lovely aunt for Christmas, so I decided to give it a shot. I mean it would be rude not to, right?

This cream took the cake (cliché intended) and left me cured of my reluctance toward the daily ritual. With its slightly sweet smell of marshmallows and warm milk, and non-greasy application (crucial to my new found love) I was hooked.

These days, I look forward to the ritual; it has even become a mini stress reliever during the day. I’ve also noticed that my skin and nails have never looked or felt better.

Now if only I could shake hands with myself.

Not A Model Weekly Mantra - Rilke

Maybe it's the month of January that I find more difficult than the rest. Maybe it's the bitter winds that cut through our crimson cheeks, or the repetitive motion of putting on layer upon layer without thought. Maybe it's the loss of freedom that comes from the days of leaving the house with drenched  hair and bare, squirmy toes. Perhaps it's the dark mornings and the darker evenings that make even the smallest infraction of the human spirit a cause to hide under down-filled comforters until the snooze button goes off, yet again. There are many things that leave us heavy in our minds, in our hearts, or even in our sinuses. This week's mantra can't really be explained. I read it, I liked it. Here's to feeling heavy.

“This is what the things can teach us:
to fall,
patiently to trust our heaviness.
Even a bird has to do that
before he can fly.”

— Rilke

Sunday Sound - Not A Model Contributor post

Looking for some new music? One of my favourite contributors Bronte gives us her lowdown on what to listen to on a Sunday afternoon. As per her post - I'm usually the one who can't peel herself from under the comforter. Gotta love the weekend. Enjoy xo

By: Bronte Martin

Where one is situated on a Sunday morning can tell a lot about their personality.

Are you someone to be curled up with a good book and a steaming cup of Saigon Chai? Or would you be out on an early morning stroll with someone who matters the most? I’m sure there’s someone out there who is simply unable to peel yourself out from under that heavenly comforter. You might possibly (or quite probably) be suffering from a minor headache at this time, and the only thing that beats a tall glass of water and extra-strength Advil is music.

With 2012 fully in stow, January is a great month to see (or hear) things in a new light. I have always dedicated my Sunday mornings to hunting down new music in quite an obsessive fashion. On such occasions, I tend to gravitate towards light-hearted acoustics and powerful yet raw vocals. You could either be giving up on my musical taste right at this moment (yes, I’m talking to you head-bangers), or be intrigued, but please, give me a chance.

Here are six recommendations that could act as an addition (or establishment) of your 2012 iTunes “Sunday Sound” play list. You may find yourself completely relaxed, bobbing your head in approval or shutting down your computer after the sound of the first bridge, but hey, at least you gave it a try.

1. Rising – Lhasa De Sela
Hoarse yet delicate, Lhasa De Sela’s voice is undeniably unique. As one of the biggest inspirations of my favourite singer Patrick Watson, I am just as big of a fan of Lhasa as he is. As a little taste of her musical abilities, take this in.

2. Somebody That I Used To Know – Gotye ft. Kimbra
Recently surfacing, Gotye nails this catchy happy-go-lucky tune with quirky riffs and steady vocals. The lyrics are (almost) too easily applicable to just about everyone’s life (at some point or other) and the contrast between his and Kimbra’s voice is brilliant. Mark my words; you won’t be able to keep this out of your head.

3. Sit Down Beside Me – Patrick Watson
I don’t think it’s physically possible to put into words how much I recommend Patrick Watson as a Sunday morning listen. Better yet, all day, everyday, no matter the hour or caliber of ringing ears. His voice is pure honey complimented by the acoustics of The Wooden Arms (who he regularly collaborates with). You could say this is a musical match made in heaven. Seeing him in concert, up close and personal? All the better.

4. Civilian – Wye Oak
Emotion, emotion, emotion. Oh, and awesome guitar riffs. That basically sums up what you’re about to be surrounded by, with a hint of genius. Think a toned down version of The Silversun Pickups. Enjoy.

5. Drops in the River – Fleet Foxes
If you think you’ve heard harmony, think again. Fleet Foxes redefine this very notion with a sense of effortlessness leaving their listeners in paralysis. Folk, blues, acoustic, indie or are they baroque pop? Decide for yourself what is best suited. I’m warning you, it’s hard to put their sound into words, let alone label it.

6. You Already Know – Bombay Bicycle Club
Finishing off with the mellowest of all. Listening to BBC is always a spirit lifter. Simplistic yet upbeat, the London-based band proves that going back to basics doesn’t always have to be, well, basic. This is most definitely their least “dancey” of the lot, but as a listener, you’ve got a whole spectrum to choose from. It’s like one stop shopping with these guys.

Wanting more? Well maybe take advice from the procrastinator herself and spend YOUR Sunday morning behind a computer screen. In the wise words of Anna Wintour AKA Meryl Streep, that is all.

Queen of the Coin - Not A Model Contributor Post

Ever wonder how to get your finances in order? Not A Model contributor, Jenny shares her experience. Enjoy!

By: Jennifer Choy

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had expensive taste. I enjoy English riding lessons, well-tailored clothing, an expertly crafted croissant and brunching at restaurants that remind me of Paris. So you can imagine my surprise when I realized that my budget was much more aligned with Walmart than Jimmy Choo.

At the gentle coaxing of a friend, I went to the bank and received alarming news about my bank account: I in fact do not have a money tree nor am I the inventor of some seemingly useless but wildly popular invention like the Snuggie or the Slap Chop.

My saviour came in the form of a wonderful eastern European goddess of money management. Okay, she was more of a part-time financial advisor at TD but the point is, she got through to a serious princess living a champagne life on a Lakeport 24 budget. Yep, I’m not even talking fancy beer here.

“Okay, well this isn’t so bad and it’s definitely fixable,” says my new financial advisor, cheerfully skimming my account history juxtaposed with an expression of mild confusion as to how I could possibly think that purchasing a Louis Vuitton bag was a good idea.

On this very eye-opening day, I was given a budget, a concept that’s as alien to me as grooming is for Russell Brand. Somehow, I need to figure out how to mould my life of luxury around rigid constraints.

And so begins my year of frugality, saving and being happy with what I have rather than wanting what I don’t have. Many of my posts for Not A Model Blog will revolve around my new-found affinity for the simple things, amazing style finds that won’t cost you your first born child and maybe I’ll even build enough credibility to give a few financial tips.

Wish me luck!

On that thing called age....and a little happy birthday

One of my best friends is turning a "milestone age" today.

While most people have come to know me through this blog, you may also feel like you know her. Stefania's presence has always been on Not A Model through her fantastic photography and our ridiculous photo shoots. While she probably would prefer if I didn't publicly embarrass her with a "Happy Birthday" post, I can't help it. When we were discussing this milestone birthday, she was a bit apprehensive about it.

First off, I don't tolerate people who don't embrace their birthdays.

I said, in some words or another, "Don't be one of those people who dread growing older, and obsess over a number. There is so much to look forward to; it can only get better."

I believe that every year is another opportunity to learn something new, to try something new and to grow. No matter what age you are turning, the gratitude should come from being able to live, breathe and see what another year can bring. (I know, I know, come and talk to me in a few months when I turn the same age.)

I know she'd kill me if I pasted a giant photo of her under this post, so instead you'll find a mini-collage with a variety of our photo shoots spanning over the last five years. She's always been a great supporter of my blog and I want to wish her the happiest of days today.

So here's to you miss - I can't wait to see what trouble we get in with the next 25. xx

Luxe Box - Not A Model Contributor Post

By: Vanessa Grillone

If you’re like me and have a thing for beauty products, I’d like to turn you on to something great! It’s called a LUXE BOX from Loose Button. For only $12.00 a month, a box is sent to you, filled with 4 or 5 beauty products to try out. The best part? There is NO shipping charge.

I’m currently waiting to receive my first Luxe Box and I cannot wait! They feature brands like Lancome, Stila, Cheeky Monkey, Dermalogica, and Essie. I love trying new nail polishes, mascaras, and face washes. I think the best part about these Luxe Boxes is that I get to treat myself for less than $15.00 a month. I don’t usually spend money on myself unless it's on books or something I really need. Even then it kind of hurts to see any money leave my bank account. My mom, sister, and even my boyfriend make fun of me for that. They always tell me that I work hard for my money and if I want to treat myself to something once a month, I should. Well, Mom, Jess, and BF I agree. I work hard for my money so I better treat myself right.

Don’t feel guilty for treating yourself. If you can afford to do it, try to do something for yourself on a monthly basis. Give yourself a gift this month whether it be a Luxe Box, a manicure, a haircut, or a pair of shoes you’ve been drooling over. You deserve it.

Not A Model Weekly Mantra - The Rules of Civility

I’m finally being a good book club member.

As I previously mentioned, I’m part of a monthly book club with some of my PR school girls. While I’ve missed a few of the books, (or have been too busy to read) this month I can’t seem to tear my eyes away from the page. The book, “The Rules of Civility” focuses on a young woman's experience living and working in the publishing industry in New York in the thirties. Yes, I know it is shocking that I would like this. (drip drip sarcasm)

Anyways, I’m devouring the book, and I came upon a quote that struck me as something to share for this week’s mantra.

“Whatever setbacks he had faced in life, he said, however daunting or dispiriting the unfolding of events, he always knew that he would make it through, as long as when he woke in the morning he was looking forward to his first cup of coffee."

"When a person loses the ability to take pleasure in the mundane – the cigarette on the stoop or the gingersnap in the bath - she has probably put herself in unnecessary danger.” Amor Towles.

With this in mind, it's time to remind yourself of the small things in life that make you happy. Lately, I find myself thinking along the road to the future; to far off places or to reaching milestones, that I can miss out on the daily sparks of happiness in my life. It’s the small things - finding a new favourite song, receiving a long awaited response in an inbox, the morning jaunt to work, a fresh pair of socks, a warm cup of green tea, climbing into a warm bed with new sheets, a large spoon of Nutella. Maybe some of those are my simple pleasures, but what are yours? Remember the little moments that make you happy. They will repeat often, and bring you back to the present moment. Most of all, they will remind you why you are here. The rest will sort itself out.

Happy week everyone.

xx

Post- Holiday Beauty Survival - The Kit

Feeling sluggish after a week back from the holidays? Looking for a winter beauty boost? Below is my latest post for The Kit. Enjoy!

When champagne flutes are empty and the charm of the snow has worn off, the post-holiday blues can set in and make anyone feel less than beautiful. Here are some products to keep you glowy and giddy enough for people to ask if you’ve already taken a spring vacation.

When the seasonal exposure to sunlight is minimal, the face can appear sallow and sad. Benefit’s Girl Meets Pearl ($34 at Shopper’s Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques) provides a liquid highlighter to bring light to the areas of the face that need it the most. Dab a little under your brow, or onto the inner corners of your eyes for that “I just slept 15 hours” look.

No matter how many products we pack on our skin, if the initial layer is dull, the rest will appear the same. Origins Modern Friction ($40, available at The Bay) is a gentle, natural dermabrasion that rejuvenates old skin. With rich starch, lemon oil and aloe, skin is left without uneven patches or irritations and people will start asking how much your professional treatments are. It’s up to you to share the secret.

Need to refresh those tired eyes from reading holiday Visa bills?
Try the Body Shop’s Natrulift Roll-On ($26.00) for a refreshing eye experience that will hydrate and brighten even the darkest of circles. With pomegranate extract and cool-on-contact roll-on treatment, there will be no more regret about buying that extra sweater last month.

Not A Model Contributor Post - How to eat an elephant

While I provided my 6 insights for 2012, my contributor k* (who hates capitalization and prefers anonymity) wrote this great piece about resolutions. Enjoy! xx
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the thing about new year's resolutions is that they're often made and rarely kept. i think this is because they're usually a mental note after a few glasses of bubbly and also when it comes down to achieving the goal post-holiday season, the fun's over, it's cold out, and you feel broke and fat. an already defeated state of mind is not ideal to embark on a quest to resolve a problem you've identified with yourself. it can seem impossible and overwhelming.

when overwhelmed, the best piece of advice i ever received was from my dad. he said, "how do you eat an elephant? one bite at a time."

when i have what feels like a monumental task in front of me, this analogy always calms me down. so how can it be applied to new year's resolutions? using the following steps, making that resolution a reality should be a bit easier.

1) identify an achievable goal.
it's great to want to save more money, for example, but if you don't plan how much money, it's difficult to measure success. in the case of money, pick a number. if you're in debt $1,000.00, identify that's the amount that needs to be saved.

2) make a list.
figure out the steps needed to achieve the end goal. if you need to save $1,000.00, how many lattes and impulse lipsticks and pairs of shoes does that mean refraining from a week? credit card statements are a great help - figure out what unnecessary items are eating into your balance each week.

3) write it down.
it's great to make a mental note, but daily decisions made can derail your end-goal when it's not top-of-mind. write down your first step. so if you're $1,000.00 in debt, write down "no lattes this week, so drink free coffee at the office and save $50". place the note somewhere you will be reminded, like on the bathroom mirror or on your computer at work. once the first step is complete, replace the note with step 2.

4) have a deadline.
once the steps are figured out, you'll know how long it should take you to achieve your goal. circle this date on the calendar, set an alarm/reminder on your phone, and make yourself aware that there will come a day when all the little steps have completed the whole.

i'm going to make the same resolution i made last year - to blog more. i didn't follow my own advice last year but plan to this year, so more posts i hope in 2012.

Not A Model Photo Diary - Brooklyn, New York (Part 2)

And so we have another Not A Model travel photo diary! This NYC series features:

• New Years Eve fanciness (note: the pleather shorts make a comeback. Yes, I am an outfit repeater)
• Day-drinking in a German beer hall in Brooklyn
• Chromeo and hipsterville 
• A little bit of water, a whole lotta skyline

Until my next travel destination...enjoy! xx

Brooklyn Bridging

This time I would see the Brooklyn Bridge.

Although I've been to New York four times prior, I realized that I've never seen this famous attraction. On my latest trip (lucky #5), I vowed to make it there. Despite a delayed flight, (see post below) I arrived in Brooklyn on Saturday morning and celebrated New Years Eve with a great group of friends. On my final day, and with just a couple of hours before my flight home, my wish was fulfilled.

While some tourist attractions leave me agitated, or underwhelmed (*cough cough Times Square) I really enjoyed this stop. There is something calming about walking on a structure that represents a city's history, its mobility and its connection to itself. On this trip I felt part of something, part of New York.

I know I'm a Canadian city girl at heart, but New York seems to have made its way into that beating organ in my chest. It felt good to scratch something small off my "to-see" list.

This year, make your own list and vow to see something new in 2012.

Below are some photos I took while there. Enjoy!