Toasted Barley Salad

Recently we had some very lovely guests over for an impromptu dinner and we wanted something that was not only quick to put together, but equally as affordable and tasty.  We had made this delicious toasted barley salad with tomatoes, zucchini, and corn once and thought it would be just right. This time, however, we added some red peppers for that extra crisp crunch, and I think making it the second time around was even better than the first. I love the idea of toasting both the barley and the corn as it really brings out the flavour and gives it a nice texture. This is by far one of my favourite barley dishes -- it's fresh, delightfully light and bursting with vibrant colour. It's also great for leftovers the next day; the flavours are even more intoxicating if that's possible. Check back tomorrow to see what we served as an appetizer to go along with this yummy goodness.

Belted Beauty: For Men

Every man needs a great belt. Classic, sturdy, and functional, it is the one accessory for men that can complete any outfit and create an overall neat and refined look. Whether causal or formal, a good belt can make a great guy look even better. While the standard black leather belt is always a nice, safe choice, try a coloured or patterned one to freshen things up, while adding some oomph and chic sophistication. You’ll look sleek, modern, and still a man. Trust me, your pants will thank me later.

1. Marc Jacobs Dark Brown Leather Belt 2. Paul Smith Accessories Light Brown Leather Belt 3. Etro Reversible Leather Belt 4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Darkest Peacock University Stripe Belt 5. Mulberry Classic Chocolate Plaited Belt 6. Etro Reversible Woven Leather and Cotton Belt 7. Burberry Smoked Check Matte Buckle Belt 8. Dolce & Gabbana Suede Belt

Belted Beauty: For Women

Belts for me are more fashion than function. While it may hold up pants in place for some, I love that it can add that final stylized touch to your outfit, making you look more polished and put together. And with the plethora of colourful belts springing up this season, it’s a great way to colour block or spice up neutrals. Whether you wear it looped around your pants or cinched in around your waist, brightly buckle up because you'll be in for a wild ride.

1. ASOS Pastel Metal Keeper Super Skinny Waist Belt (Peach) 2. ASOS Pastel Metal Keeper Super Skinny Waist Belt (Mint) 3. Zara Coloured Plaited Belt 4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Python-Embossed Belt 5. Ann Taylor Perfect Skinny Belt 6. Smythson Rose Belt 7. ASOS Pastel Metal Keeper Super Skinny Waist Belt (lilac) 8. Marc by Marc Jacobs Cherry Embossed Belt

Weekend of Firsts

This past Victoria Day weekend has been a weekend of firsts for me: first cottage experience, first campfire, first shooting star, and first s’mores (which made me ridiculously giddy). Seriously, s’mores, where have you been all my life? Clearly, I had lived a very sheltered existence. It was nice to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in such a serene, tranquil environment. With the welcoming warmth of the glorious summer-like weather, it was the perfect weekend getaway filled with good friends, soothing music by the water, and wonderful memories.

Gorgeous lake view

Getting my tan on

Music always sounds better by the water, complete with a sunset and a talented boyfriend. Click here to see this incredible blues improv

Canadian geese and their adorable fluffs

Star light, star bright. Our amazing view of the sky late at night

Cobalt + Coral

Here’s a closer look at my outfit from the other night’s Gap event. I’ve always been a fan of colour blocking, long before the trend became as popular as it is now. There are so many endless choices you can mix and match with, but blue + orange is a no-brainer. As complementary colours, they pair so effortlessly easy together. There was a light wind that day which aided to the breeziness of the whole outfit and made my skirt dance.

 M for Mendocino top and skirt|Nine West bag|Aldo shoes|Bizou necklace|Nicole by OPI 'My Lifesaver' 

Be Your Own T

Last night I attended an event at Gap on Bloor, hosted by She Does the City. It was a fun-filled party to celebrate Gap’s relaunch of the classic tee. Five fashion bloggers were challenged to a tee-off, and they each had to create their own Be Your Own T look from a given t-shirt. You can check out their outfits here. I had the pleasure of meeting 4/5 bloggers: Gracie Carroll, Gloria Chik from urbanebloc, Nelia Belkova from Style Blog, and Hawley Dunbar from Sidewalk Hustle. They are equally as fresh, stylish, and fun as their blogs emulate. I hope to aspire, grow, and learn from these lovely ladies.

The party itself was bustling with music, wine and hors d'oeuvres, goodies and prizes, and even a braids bar. I’ve never been a huge fan of Gap, but after perusing the store, I found myself wanting this dress, and that tank, and pretty much half the store. Bright, bold colours adorned every inch; it was like swimming in a sea of skittles. Gap has reinvented themselves, and they are clearly on point with the summer’s hottest trends. I will definitely be checking into their store more often now and I can’t wait to see what new pieces will be popping up in the future.

Check out the Gap’s Summer Collection here.

Love the adorable mint bike!

L to R: Me, Gloria, Nelia, Gracie

All images via She Does The City

HomeMint

It’s official: HomeMint has launched their home decor line yesterday. It’s the latest celeb/designer collaboration in the Mint company series, helmed by the ever evolving Justin Timberlake and the renowned celebrity stylist and interior designer, Estee Stanley. Seriously, I’m in awe at the many talents of JT. From furniture to kitchenware, artwork to decorative pieces, HomeMint has designed and curated the entire collection to transform your home into a fabulously chic, yet affordable sanctuary. There are so many fantastic pieces in their collection, and I am excited to see what this dynamically stylish duo can create. JT is bringing sexy back, and while it may not be in the form of booty-shaking infectious music, I’ll have to settle on lusting after his pillows and rugs. 

images via HomeMint