Alley Cat:

Oh how I'm fiending for the 90's these days. When my lovely friend Natalie gave me this cheetah print vest I couldn't help but think of Josie and the Pussycats.  Initially meant to be a vest, as soon I put it on I decided I was going to rock it as a top on its own.  Now that spring is on the horizon we will be seeing a comeback of the crop tops and bralettes reminiscent of the 90 's era.  Although this top isn't a complete crop I decided to wear my high waisted jeans and military jacket to level the look.  The leather backpack had been a hunt of mine for years and I finally stumbled upon this one while thrifting (but of course).  Completed with the choker and suede boots the throwback is rounded out with an updated spin.  

Wear it the way you want. 

(top: a gift from my friend Natalie, jacket: vintage, choker and backpack: thrifted, glasses: Kensington Market, Toronto,  jeans and boots: H & M, turquoise ring: Mexico)

Art and Soul'd: Leif Podhajsky

The psychedelic and dreamy works of Leif Podhajsky.  His work is like a poetic dance of esoteric allusions.  I seem to be drawn to art that utilizes symmetry and in ways that bends the mind.  Leif's work intends to inspire the viewer into an altered consciousness, one that realigns the self and its surroundings.  He has created cover art for musical artists such as Lykke Li, Foals, Grimes, The Vines, Miami Horror and the like.  Along with his influence on fashion he also has materialized his beautiful creations into wearable art with T- shirts and printed silk scarves.

Step into his world here. Or should I say your own...  

Say That You Love Me.

Don't let Hallmark define your love.

There's one day a year that has always been a topic for controversy... Valentine's Day.  Dubbed “The Hallmark Holiday”, there is a positive message that is often lost amongst all of the material and consumer driven motives...(what “holiday” isn’t consumer driven though?) Aside from the historical significance, holidays are celebrated with the purpose to bring people together and to share happiness.  As humans, we are social beings, we were born to communicate and to connect.   Everyone wants to love and to be loved in return; it is the essence of our very existence.  But what is love? The definition differs between every individual.  Valentine’s Day however seems to focus on “romantic love”, the kind of love that can only be shared with a significant other.  It doesn’t have to be about that if you don’t want it to.  Love is not measured by materials or objects, it cannot be measured.  Love comes from within, you get what you give.  So go ahead, wear some red, give someone a kiss and celebrate your being. Spread the love.  You may be surprised what you’ll find.

(images via: tumblr, Nasty Gal, For Love and Lemons,Sian Melton, and that creative name tag was made for me at Sasquatch Music festival 2 years ago)