Sweater Weather

          No matter what state or province you live in, it's that time of year where looking fashionable and staying warm is sometimes a hard thing to pull off. The frigid winter temperatures can make even the most fashion forward thinker, think twice about changing out of sweatpants and that perfect oversized hoodie. Well have no fear! We're here with loads of sweaters that can keep you stylish and toasty; Just throw one of these lovelies over a pair of leggings, jeans, or printed tights and slip on some boots and you're winter ready.

          Whether you're into the oversized pullover look or printed open cardigans are more your forte, there are so many options on the market you can't go wrong. Nowadays when it comes to sweater trends- it's the bigger the better- but there are also classic styles with a twist (see the embellished shoulders and cool collars pictured). If you love any of the sweaters featured in this post, be sure to check out stores like Forever 21, Aritzia, H&M, TopShop, Brandy Melville, Garage, Cotton On, and Amazon.com to amp up your winter style.

*Photos courtesy of many lovely retailers. 

Food for thought...

Chicken & Peppers with Roasted Potatoes

Step 1:  Wash and cut potatoes into cubes. 

Step 2:  Pre-heat oven to bake at 385°F. 

Step 3:  In baking pan, toss potatoes with cooking oil (enough to coat), parsely flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 4:  Cover pan in foil and place in oven.

Step 5:  Cut chicken breasts into thin strips and cook in skillet w/ a small amount of cooking oil or spray.

Step 6:  Wash and cut green and red bell peppers into thin strips.

Step 7:  Once all chicken has browned, toss peppers in and stir.

Step 8:  Season chicken and peppers to taste. Remove from fire once peppers are tender.

Step 9:  Remove foil from potatoes and cook uncovered another 10 mins. Stop baking once tender.

Step 10:  Enjoy! 

Music of the Moment:

Zedd, (real name Anton Zaslavski) is a 24 year old DJ and electronic music producer gaining recognition on the airwaves; With a remix of Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" and a single, "Spectrum", with Matthew Koma, Zedd has made a name for himself. More recently, Zedd has paired with strong female vocalists Foxes (known for her track "Youth") on "Clarity", and Haley Williams, of Paramore, on "Stay the Night".

"Stay the Night" showcases Haley's signature pipes, Zedd's knack for catchy dance ballads, and beautiful videography. One listen and you'll be hooked; Who knows, maybe you'll even be inspired to ask the pivotal question: "Are you gonna stay the night?"

Toga! Toga! Toga!

          My roommate and I decided to throw a toga party during frosh week (a college right of passage). We watched a bunch of how-to-make-a-toga videos on Youtube and found that once you get the hang of it- togas aren't really that hard to make. It can seem daunting, but it just comes down to finding the best way to wrap the fabric around your body; You can wrap and unwrap until you get the look you want.

         To recreate my DIY look, which would be great for a Grecian Goddess Halloween costume, you'll need a single flat bed sheet, real or faux vines, some twine or rope for a belt, and a few safety pins.

          Instead of a traditional white toga, as my friend Teesha donned (pictured with me) I used a navy blue bed sheet. Once I got the look and shape I wanted, I tied an Urban Outfitters rope belt around my waist and wrapped some dollar store faux vines around it. I also made a little head band out of the excess vines by simply measuring it around my head and glue-gunning the ends together.


          Needless to say we had a great night and our togas were a big hit. Try a toga theme for your next party and don't forget to share your creations!

Food for thought...

Baked Egg & Avocado

Step 1:  Preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 2:  Rinse and cut an avocado in half. Remove pit.

Step 3:  Crack an egg, discarding half of shell, and carefully pour yoke into each half of the avocado.

Step 4:  Add shredded cheese and any other toppings your heart desires. 

Step 5:  Bake in a glass or non-stick pan for 10-12 mins.

Step 6:   Enjoy!

Music of the Moment:

Drake, (full name Aubrey Drake Graham) is a 26 year old rapper, singer, songwriter, artist, and actor. He first gained recognition as Jimmy Brooks on Canada's teen drama series, Degrassi: Next Generation. Years later he broke into hip-hop, releasing mixtapes and signing with Lil Wayne's record label Young Money Entertainment. 

After nearly 4 years of his signature style's hit singles, such as Take Care, Over, and The Motto, his current release Hold On We're Going Home does not disappoint. This track evokes a chill, "the night may have ended, but the fun isn't over" feel and appeals to guys and girls of all musical tastes.

If you don't already love it, give this jam a chance. After all, as Drake would say... YOLO.

Music of the Moment:

Lorde, (real name Ella Yelich-O'Connor) is a 16 year old singer-songwriter from New Zealand that's burst onto the music scene. Chances are you've heard her debut album's single, Royals, on the radio and fallen in love. This track has gotten a lot of attention and is from her highly anticipated LP, Pure Heroine, due out on September 30th.

If you've been a fan from her first EP The Love Club, like J has, then you're already up on her unique and youthful yet mature songstyle. Check out both the EP and upcoming LP to experience the sounds of Lorde; You'll be glad you did. 

Star light, star bright...

Base Colour: Essie Go Ginza

Glitter: Silver w/ star shaped sequins polish from the beauty supply store

Summertime & the livin's easy...

What's better than beautiful weather, refreshing ocean waves, and family time? Well, nothing. 

Here's a pic of myself and two of my sisters: Kristina and Gabrielle, in size order. haha... We had a great day in the sun. 

Plus, check out our swimwear- we're rocking 3 different super cute suit types... 

J: Geometric Print Strapless Corset Bandeau Top w/ Matching Bikini Bottoms. $14.99 each @ Target

Kristina: Sporty Blue Striped Halter Top w/ Matching Bikini Bottoms. $9.99 each @ American Eagle

Gabrielle: Tribal Print Halter Tankini w/ Black Ruched Side-tie Bottoms. $9.99 @ KMart

Trends of the Summer

Summer's nearing it's end but the fashion trends of these past 3 months are anything but over. If you're a bit behind the times, no worries... FTMH is here to provide you with a rundown of what's been hot during the heat:

Layering Jewelry

Do you have a lot of jewelry, but only wear a few pieces at a time? Well this summer everyone's making the most of their jewelry collection. Stack up multiple bracelets and rings and layer on the necklaces; Whatever you do- keep accessorizing! 

Hats & Headwraps

Sometimes you throw one on as a shield from the sun, and other times to be the epitome of chic; Whatever the reason, headwear is a nice touch.

Maxi Skirts

Don't feel like wearing pants, or shorts, or anything constricting? Well just throw a maxi skirt on and you're on your way to a great look. There are so many styles, colors, shapes, and fabrics to choose from, you're bound to find the skirt(s) of your dreams this summer. (P.S. Remember to transition these into fall; Slip on some cute booties or flats and you've got it made.)

Sandals & Wedges

Summer footwear is always fun; From studs to prints, and metallics to beads, there are endless combinations and styles to choose from. Be sure to browse your favorite stores, and ones you don't usually shop in, to find some great sandals & wedges before the summer's over.

Floral Print

A major trend this summer has been floral print. This lovely motif evokes a dainty and playful feeling, and can be toned down or played up in an outfit. You just can't go wrong incorporating the beauty of nature into your look. (Check out how I wore my muted floral Aritzia blazer.)

Crop Tops & Bustiers

Crop tops and bustiers have made a huge debut this year, and this summer was the perfect time to showcase this cool item. These tops can be paired with high-waisted bottoms, or layered underneath sheer blouses or denim shirts. They are so multi-purpose, what's not to love?

  

Customized Denim Shorts

Take an ordinary pair of jean shorts and make them interesting. That's pretty much the recipe for this summer's hot trend: Customized Denim Shorts. Whether you cut them off for a frayed look, or add a fun print or graphic, shorts are a must have to beat the heat. (This would be a great DIY project for all you crafters out there!)

Colored + Printed Pants

What can we say about printed and/or colored bottoms that we haven't already? They are an absolute staple in any wardrobe, and instantly add interest to your outfit. (C and her friend Sadiya have the colored jeans trend down pat.)

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So these are trends everyone's wearing this summer and we're sure they will transition wonderfully into Autumn. If you're missing anything from our guide, just take a trip to your local shopping grounds and take advantage of all the sales. Don't forget to share your finds, we definitely will! xx

Blue Mountain

So I went on a little weekend getaway with my best friend to a ski resort village called Blue Mountain in Collingwood, Ontario, Canada. Obviously since it's summer we weren't skiing, but in the summer time the resorts are still up and running, the village is buzzing with life and entertainment, and the hot tub is open 24/7. We went for some much needed  R&R. This was my second time going and I've got to say I'm absolutely in love with this place. The village is so cute, it's got a great vibe and there are so many dining options! And we may have a cocktail or two... or ten. Even though it's summer there is still so much to do there! My favourite place to go to when I'm there is "Crock a Doodle", they have a bunch of cool pottery there that you can paint. It's a great way to feel like a kid again. We also went paddle boating, and went on a very romantical horse drawn carriage ride. My favourite thing to eat by far has to be beaver tails (it's a Canadian thing) you can't buy them everywhere in Canada but they do sell them at Blue Mountain so I love to get them. SO GOOD! Our spot of the weekend though was this little resto lounge called Twist Wine and Martini Bar. When I see the word wine I'm pretty much sold. They had such a nice patio with cabana's, it was perfect! The best thing I had there though was their cheese and meat plate... drool. If you haven't tried goat brie cheese I highly recommend you try it, it will change your life.

Outfit #1

Gray TNA v-neck from Aritzia

Denim Vest from Forever 21

Printed skirt from J

Outfit #2

Black sleeveless button down top from Garage

Mint green chiffon maxi skirt from Forever 21

Silver geometric necklace from Forever 21