The Nordstrom Eaton Gala was so much fun. I came down to Toronto for it in the midst of my first week of school, but I loved the whirlwind trip! Guests got to walk the red carpet, get photos taken at a stop and repeat, and preview the store before it opened a couple days later.
There was also a stunning fashion show, that showcased Nordstrom's collections. I really enjoyed seeing some of Nordstrom's luxe designer pieces—think Marchesa gowns—go down the runway. Celebrity guests included models Hilary Rhoda and Petra Nemcova, as well as Toronto Mayor John Tory in the front row. The best part, was that the gala raised over $270,000 for six Toronto-based charities! If you're still hoping to go to the Yorkdale gala, tickets are on sale here.
A few weeks ago, I visited the Essentials TIFF Gifting Lounge... which felt like a dream! To the event, I wore a floral wrap dress from Primark for an easy summer look.
The Essentials 7 gifting lounge was open to celebs and media to preview new releases from brands like Smashbox Cosmetics, Vitamin Water, Saucony Canada and KMS California hair care.
I had the chance to get my hair done by KMS California stylist and loved the chic braid combined with easy-going waves. He started by adding some Hair Play texturizing spray, and curled my hair with a curling iron. To get the side braid, he did a simple mini french braid. To set the style, he used Hair Stay maximum hold hair spray. This kept it flawless even in the humidity!
Going to the Ex at the end of summer is a bittersweet tradition. Read on to see what to eat, where to shop and what to see at the CNE 2016!
I wanted to dress comfortably, so I wore a pair of casual sneakers with a light pink dress to match the pastel, retro hues of the Midway at the Ex. I always love walking through the carnival stalls and watching the rides. The midway gets especially dreamy at night!
For hair, Aveda artists used the brand's flexible hold Air Control Hair Spray. A neat part about this product is that it eliminates static which was a high priority with the frigid temperatures that week! The look for the show was inspired by macramé, but was far from boho. The low ponytail was so unique in that cobra knots were created out of the hair itself. I can't wait to recreate the look myself, and hide those pesky hair ties.
I also had the chance to sneak a peek into the dressing room where the gorgeous gowns were getting last minute finishes. The designer, Leanne Marshall, was there answering a few questions for press. "For me it's how many different ways can I make this one material appear." Marshall's design philosophy was evident by the textures of her gowns, with pleats, ruffles, lace and contrasting materials. I loved having a glimpse into the last minute show preparations, and experiencing the "calm chaos" of trying to darn the last hems to get the gowns sent down the runway.
