OOTD: Summer Green

I recently bought this gorgeous green dress at Jacob & I just had to show you guys. I originally bought it for work, but I just couldn't resist wearing it to the Jacob's fall collection fashion show at the "Festival de Mode et Design 2013".

I wanted the outfit to be simple, elegant and practical so I paired the dress with some simple black heels, a blue silk belt, some pearls and a blue cardigan.

Aren't these ruffles just gorgeous? I find it adds a unique and playful touch to the dress. I also love this particular shade of green; it reminds me of the forest, so peaceful.

I have to admit, up until recently, I hadn't worn many dresses. However, I am quickly growing fond of them. They make me feel like a lady. Do you like wearing dresses?

Tip: When wearing a dress without tights or stretchy shorts, if your thighs rub together and create a painful rash, use some baby powder. Put some on your hands and rub it on your inner thighs, it will absorb the humidity: reapply every 4-6 hours. You can also use this trick if you can't put your feet into your heels. Plus, it smells good. :)

Outfit

Dress: Jacob
Belt: Jacob (from a shirt)
Cardigan: Simons
Pearls: Aldo Accessories
Nails: An affair in red square by OPI

What to Expect When Going to the Zoo

Last week, my family and I went to the zoo (crossed an activity off my summer bucket list, yay!). I remember going a couple of times when I was little, and I have to be honest, other than the obvious "going to see the animals" part, I forgot what a day at the zoo meant. I made a list of a few things I think are important to know before you head out.

1. Be Patient
This is kind of obvious but believe it or not, I actually expected to see all the animals up close as soon as I got to their habitat. Silly right? Make sure you are ready to wait for them to come out; you could be waiting for a while. If you can, bring some binoculars, that way you wouldn't have to wait around as long; unless you want to take pictures.

2. Plan Ahead

There are often shows planned during the day. Research ahead and make sure you plan your day around these. Sometimes the animators attract the animals so you aren't waiting as long. Even if they don't, at least you get a bit of information while you wait. It makes the trip that much more interesting.

3. Bring Water
Make sure you bring a bottle of water for each member of your family. There are a lot of attractions and you'll be walking a lot, so you'll be very thirsty. I'm assuming you're going on a warm sunny day like we did, but even if you don't, I still recommend bringing water. Having an umbrella is also a good idea, you know, portable shade...

4. Bring Food
It's a good idea to bring some snacks. Food at these kinds of attractions tends to be a bit pricey. You can indulge in a few treats if you want, but it's still a good idea to bring snacks so you don't burn a hole in your wallet. Speaking of which, make sure you have some cash handy, because the food stands don't accept interact or visa.

5. Bring Activities
If you're going with children, make sure you bring some toys & activities just in case you have long wait times. It will be much easier for you, and a lot more fun for your kids. ;)

6. Wear Comfortable Shoes
I can't stress this enough. You are going to be walking all day, and most likely standing; comfortable shoes is a must.

We had a lot of fun (if waiting around a lot can be called fun) and we will definitely make this into a yearly activity. I'm sure our son will appreciate it more when he's older. Have you ever been to the zoo?

OOTD: Mint, Feathers and Polka Dots

Ok so we've still got a lot to learn photography wise, but at least we're getting better. Error in this photo shoot? Sun. Next time, we're looking for shade. I had a hard time keeping my eyes open and the photos came out way too bright; which is why I turned this one black and white, just a little trick.

It was a particularly warm day and I wanted something light and comfortable to wear. The shear fabric of this shirt let the breeze through, which was quite nice, and the color didn't absorb too much heat. The shoes had to go when we hit the park though; it would have been hard to walk on grass with them! I changed to a nice pair of sandals.

Isn't this necklace gorgeous. I find that the texture and color of the feathers make my outfit look lighter; which is perfect for summer.

Happy Canada day weekend to all my fellow maple syrup eaters, igloo owners, and people who see moose on a consistent basis. 'Cause that's who we really are, eh? What do you like to wear on a hot day?

Outfit

Jacket: Forever 21
Shirt: Forever 21
Pants: Vintage
Shoes: Aldo
Necklace: Aldo