Holiday Gift Guide

I can’t believe Christmas is almost a week away -- 8 days to be exact. For all you last minute shoppers who either haven’t started your Christmas shopping yet, need a few extra ideas or simply want to buy something for yourself, I’ve complied a list of lust-worthy items, with price ranges no higher than $150 so there is something for every budget.  

1. Luxe Faux Fur Scarf ($29.50)  2. Nadege Holiday Macarons ($27.50)  3. Zara Sparkly High Heel Shoes ($89.90)  4. Danier Biella Glove ($49)  5. Zara Cable Knit Sweater ($54.90)  6. Givenchy Le Rouge ($38)  7. J.Crew Minnie Pant in Medallion Print ($88)  8. Williams-Sonoma Hot Chocolate Set ($45.32)  9. Kate Spade Grace Avenue Ring Holder ($40)  10. Kate Spade Fair Maiden Stacey Wallet ($148)  11. Davids Tea Silver Berries Perfect Mug (2 for $30)

Vegan Peppermint Patties

Holiday season is upon us and that means an abundance of indulgent foods and treats. But as I'm leaving for a trip really soon (going to Hong Kong and Australia), I’ve been trying to lay low on the indulgent part (that is being saved for obvious and necessary vacation eating). I was tempted to make peppermint patties but couldn't decide on a healthy version I liked best. So when I saw that Oh She Glows (one of my favourite food blogs) had made her own vegan version, I knew this was the winner.

Crunchy on the outside, smooth and creamy on the inside, these peppermint patties are melt-in-your-mouth divine. They have a nice peppermint flavour without being overpowering and the filling is so luxurious. I didn’t have agave on hand so I subbed in coconut nectar instead. Side note: if you haven’t tried coconut nectar, you must. It has a rich, deep flavour and is healthier than agave. However, because of the coconut nectar, my filling turned out a beige colour rather than the usual white insides of traditional peppermint patties. Although not as pretty, the taste certainly made up for it. 

Fall Trend: Oversized Coats

Oversized coats are another big (pun intended) trend this season. Masculine and dramatically large, these coats have dropped shoulders, roomy sleeves and are generally looser throughout. I’m usually all about fitted coats, but there’s something about the roominess of oversized ones that seem extra cozy and comfy. They can be unconventionally chic when worn properly (especially when open and undone) and as long as they aren't too oversized. You don't want to look like your coat is swallowing you whole. Bare your legs or pair it with skinny pants and heels to balance out the look.

1. Gianluca Capannolo Checked Oversize Coat 2. MSGM Oversized Coat 3. Zara Wollen Wraparound Coat 4. Jacquemus Oversize Coat 5. Topshop Premium Oversized Throw Coat 6. Weekend by Max Mara Leopard Coat

Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

Ever since fall has arrived, I've been wanting to make pumpkin mac & cheese and I finally got around to it this past weekend. Of course I wanted a healthier version of this classic pasta dish and the result was a rich and decadent meal without feeling too heavy. The pumpkin made the cheese sauce so creamy and luxurious -- comfort food at its best. For the pasta, I opted for penne instead of macaroni and used panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping. This is the perfect bowl of cheesy goodness that will satisfy any carb craving on a chilly fall night.

Modern Man Fashion Week - Christopher Bates SS14

Modern Man Fashion Week continued with Christopher Bates’ “Best of” Spring/Summer ‘14 Collection, featuring the menswear designer's favourite looks. It was his second unveiling of the collection in Toronto; the first shown during World MasterCard Fashion Week a few weeks back. I loved everything about this French Rivieria inspired collection -- very fresh, sophisticated and classic Euro chic. I especially liked the lipstick kiss on some of the collars, which has become Christopher Bates' signature stamp. The collection was reminiscent of a simple but elegant nautical lifestyle and the tailoring was spot-on. It was a fantastic show that successfully concluded the first day of Modern Man Fashion Week.