thank you, ok

TREATS

2012-01-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

A red velvet cupcake from Dlish.

My very favourite fragrance in a solid: Diptyque Philosykos.

A new necklace from Fawn - which I also included in this post for the Toronto Standard.

FOUND OBJECTS: ROSES BY THE DOZEN

2011-12-31T13:17:00.000-08:00

Here's my Found Objects post for the Toronto Standard's final Saturday Stylesheet of 2011 - flowery things to ring in the New Year!

Happy 2012 xo

MORICO

2011-12-27T17:30:00.002-08:00

It's so cold out! Ah well - here's a cute little zine that I got at City of Craft a few weeks ago by Lis Xu.

HOLIDAYS

2011-12-26T16:08:00.000-08:00

Coriander Girl makes beautiful festive bouquets.

Breakfast: cherries, cheese, and stollen.

Warmest cowl + a new golden satchel (had to - thanks Zane).

Flaky biscuits

My little O-Check deer and a new candle from my mother.

Boxing day breakfast: latkes, lox, and rose (with a side of You've Got Mail).

Sunniest Boxing Day walk.

Happy Holidays xo

SUNDAY + GIVEAWAY WINNER

2011-12-18T18:30:00.000-08:00

I ordered this gold collar/necklace from Young Frankk (my first Etsy purchase, I think?) and was so happy to receive it this week. Gold collars everyday!

More pretty golden neck-wear from a recent issue of Russh.

Christmas stollen (thanks, mom!) + the new Apartamento (which I picked up at Robber yesterday). Naturally, I love these bread sculptures.

Here I am traipsing around in my winter uniform (and sporting my new collar!). Speaking of winter, my latest post for the Toronto Standard was a snow themed one - lots of pretty white stuff!

Annnnd, the winner of Worn Issue 13 is...

Number thirteen - how fitting. Congratulations, Johanna! Please email me your mailing address and I will send the copy your way.

WORN GIVEAWAY (CLOSED)

2011-12-13T18:24:00.000-08:00

Toronto's own Worn Fashion Journal's Issue 13 was released not too long ago, and I just happen to have an extra copy to give away to one of you. It's a good one - aaand you can be like one of these pretty girls who reads WORN. I also happen to be a Publishing Intern for the magazine - you can check out my introductory post here (where I talk about how I like Decade, Intelligent Clashing, Happy Accident, Ashley Rose Helvey, and so on).

Anyway, to enter please leave a comment below describing what your favourite 'uniform' is (mine = tents of all varieties). The winner will be drawn with a random number generator on Sunday, December 18, 2011. Good luck!

LATELY

2011-12-04T08:46:00.001-08:00

Black leather totes:

-A photo I liked from a recent issue of Russh taken by Maya Villiger

-My own from Joe Fresh

Velvet top coat, uh-huh.

J Diddy(!) and a hot salami sandwich from Dark Horse.

I went to the Austra show in Toronto last Thursday. Permanent goosebumps - plus Katie Stelmanis wears the best tents.

Austra Paper Bag Sessions:

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

And, some things from around the internet to pretty-up my blog:

Love these over-sized coats by BRICS.

Rope necklace by Bec Brittain.

Nicole by Ye Min Rok (and my original ombre inspiration - RIP ombre).

FALL DAYS

2011-11-23T14:53:00.001-08:00

The sun, one day, when it was shining so brightly that I forgot it could ever be cloudy // A beautiful tree in Parkdale // Cranberry/mushroom/etc. omelet from Swan, which inspired me to make this one // Always plants and flowers // Birthday steak frites at Delux // Carlos and The Drake // Most beautiful roses at Muscari in Hamilton.

GOLD

2011-11-20T09:23:00.001-08:00

My second 'Found Objects' post for the Toronto Standard featured lots of gold stuff! Including a striped Dieppa Restrepo from my favourite store, collar tips, and one of Scout and Catalogue's holiday clutches.

Also, this gold kimono from MNZ is so my jam. Tents, gold, everything good.

FOUND OBJECTS: WHISKERS ON KITTENS

2011-11-13T07:01:00.000-08:00

I'm finding objects for the Toronto Standard now - you can see my first (cat-themed!) post here. I wish I could have kept those slippers....

LATELY

2011-10-30T16:18:00.000-07:00

For breakfast today I recreated an omelet that I had on Tuesday at Swan. It was filled with roasted apple, cranberries, cheddar, mushrooms and spinach. Today I kept the apples and cranberries, but swapped the cheddar for goat's cheese, and the spinach for arugula. I'd never tried this omelet combination before, but I really like it - especially with the new issue of The Gentlewoman on the side.

New uniform! I bought it last week at Rac Boutique - a boiled wool sweater by Ashley Rowe.

These flowers from Coriander Girl have been going strong for 3 weeks now. I love those yellow ones.

I've also been wearing these collar tips pretty much daily (from Philistine).

I effing love the cover design of 1Q84, which I've been spending any free time I have reading in bed.

Fall flowers, me, and a sandwich for lunch, post Martha Marcy May Marlene viewing. I'm pretty much obsessed with Elizabeth Olsen.

Also, these girls are so cute:

BLANKET PULLOVER

2011-10-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

I love this blanket pullover (best name) by Lauren Manoogian. These photos are from MNZ, but the sweater is also available at Fawn in Toronto. Her cuffs are beautiful, too.

LATELY

2011-10-18T17:21:00.000-07:00

afternoon essentials: RUSSH, Perrier/coffee, patio // striped skirt // bedroom art // potted plants in Parkdale // Hunter and Cook // brunch at Brockton General - their prix fixe comes with a drink drink! // bright pineapple // Capital Espresso love // sunny flowers

WEEKEND BREAKFAST

2011-10-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

Flaky Biscuits (a recipe from my mother)

Note: Increasing the butter makes them tenderer, flakier, and more flavourful. (I alwaaaays increase the butter.)

2 cups sifted flour

1/4 tsp salt

3 tsp baking powder

3/4 stick of cold, unsalted butter cut into 6 pieces

2/3 milk

2/3 cup grated cheddar cheese (I like using old cheddar)

snipped chives

Preheat oven to 450F. Sift dry ingredients into bowl. Cut in butter. The butter should be the size of small peas. Add the milk, cheese, and chives. Mix thoroughly. Turn out onto a floured surface and flatten with hands. Cut with biscuit cutter and place on cookie sheet. Paint the tops of each with milk using your finger. Bake for ten minutes or until golden.

One Christmas my mother gave me a homemade book of recipes that I've enjoyed over the years. I make these flaky biscuits on weekends when I have nothing to do in the morning - so relaxing, easy, and comforting. I usually just make a half batch, though, which is more than enough for Carlos and I. Serve with jam and enjoy.

FAVOURITES

2011-10-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

More on disposable: neighbourhood flowers + Carlos.

SUNNY BRUNCH

2011-10-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

Carlos and I enjoyed a late brunch on The Drake patio a few weeks back. I love their cobb salad. I also had to take a picture of this pretty girl, as I liked how her dress matched her mimosa/the chairs/the sunshine, etc.

PIE FOR BREAKFAST

2011-10-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

Not a bad way to start the day (homemade by mom).

BEAUTY

2011-10-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do a beauty post for a while, so I thought I'd 'top shelf' myself, and share a few of the products I love. For hair I use mostly Aveda. Clove Shampoo and Conditioner are my favourites and what I use most often. I'm so sick of my ombre, and the conditioner has almost gotten rid of it! As I hate getting my hair cut, I like to use the Damage Remedy Intensive Restructuring Treatment and the Daily Hair Repair because these products keep the ends really moisturized and healthy. For styling I use Bumble and Bumble Texture Hair (Un)Dressing Creme because I like my hair to look messy. For hair spray use Aveda Air Control and for dry shampoo I'm obsessed with Oribe's Dry Texturizing Spray. I wash my hair only about once a week, and I find these work wonders.

(Some photos I snipped out of some old issues of Russh - lots of hair inspiration in that magazine!)

For makeup I generally keep my look pretty natural (except in the lipstick department, where I love lots of colour). I don't wear much eye makeup, but now that I'm growing out my bangs I wear mascara. I just bought the Sublime de Chanel one and I'm pretty happy with it (and the packaging is so special). The blush I'm wearing now is Nars Desire, and you really only need the smallest dab to get a really healthy glow.

Speaking of blush, I love this pretty story from issue two of The Gentlewoman. Pom-pom cheeks!

After wanting a Diptyque candle for a long time, I treated myself to one for my birthday (I turned 27 yesterday). It was taking me forever to decide which to get, but a fancy woman going up the escalator super energetically shouted down, "Get the Feu de Bois!" My friend and I found this hilarious - and that was the one that came home with me. So exquisite.

Another spread I liked from issue two of The Gentlewoman.

ONE YEAR

2011-10-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

It's been one year since Carlos and I moved to Toronto from Seoul. These are some photos I took last October, fresh to the city:

outside of Chasse Gardee, my still favourite store // Carlos on our street // the Tempeh Stew from Oddfellows // nights out on Dundas West // Sanko // treats from Cafe Bernate // Swan Brunch // bedroom + O-Check deer // more Cafe Bernate

UNIFORM

2011-10-02T17:17:00.000-07:00

Living in this sweater.

A LITTLE MORE LIKE THIS

2011-10-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

NOTES from MORE & CO.

(AKA my new favourite blog)

MARION VIDAL

2011-09-05T19:57:00.000-07:00

Marion Vidal at Maryam Nassir Zadeh

CARLY WAITO

2011-09-05T18:21:00.001-07:00

Carly Waito - Specimens
(and this)

AT HOME

2011-09-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

breakfast//bedside flowers from Coriander Girl for sweet sleeps//Carlos//breakfast, again: zucchini fritters, new French press from Good Egg, morning reading material //books

BEAU COOPS for KAREN WALKER

2011-08-29T14:39:00.001-07:00

These Beau Coops for karen walker shoes are killing it for fall. Even better, they're available at Chasse Gardee in Toronto. Speaking of, a couple of weeks ago I wrote about how much I love Chasse Gardee and a few other Toronto spots for Vitamin Daily - check it out here.

SNACKS

2011-08-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

More snacks in the backyard while the evenings are still nice. I could obviously eat cheese platters outside for every meal and be the happiest.

BEC BRITTAIN

2011-08-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

Want: Rope Jewelry by Bec Brittain (via Miss Moss)

DARK TIMES

2011-08-21T17:50:00.001-07:00

Some new beauty products atop an old (and favourite) Acne Paper cover:
Red wine lips and stormy nails to bring me into fall.

I also love, love, love this picture from Into The Gloss of Jacquelyn Jablonski wearing Givenchy's Fall 2011 makeup collection. I don't ever wear gloss, but I'm definitely making an exception for this one . See ya next summer Schiap.

SALAD PARTIES FOREVER

2011-08-17T00:24:00.000-07:00

Fact: dinner's more fun when it's an outdoor salad party.
Monday:
Caprese Salad with the freshest tomatoes
cheese + olives on our new slate plates

On Tuesday I made this arugula, potato, and green bean salad from Smitten Kitchen (and another round of corn with butter + lime).

And speaking of salads....this post is CRAZY! Perhaps I'll give the Rubix cube fruit salad a try next time.

GETAWAY

2011-08-14T17:10:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Carlos and I met my parents in Niagra-on-the-Lake to celebrate their anniversary. Such a nice day it was: peaches, beautiful weather, delicious meals, and wiiiiine.

Enjoying my time at Peller Estates, post wine-tasting.

Marzipan break. I never eat marzipan, but it's kind of the best. As a child I used to love to get it when we came to Niagra-on-the-Lake.

At the end of the day, my parents treated us to tons of produce. Carlos and I were armed with bags of peaches, plums, tomatoes, green beans, and nectarines on our way back home. I want to make peach cake! Recipes?

I brought two of these fruit bags back from Merci (one for me, one for Mom).

And here's Carlos looking fresh, as always.

ANOTHER EARTH

2011-08-02T06:05:00.001-07:00

Saw this yesterday and I can't stop thinking about it. Thoughtful and beautiful - go see now.

THE GOOD STUFF

2011-07-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

No.6 Daily

LATELY

2011-07-20T06:06:00.000-07:00

It's been all top knots, KW shades, and pink lips.

And salad parties:

Carlos and I had some friends over last Saturday for backyard hangs. I made a million (5) salads, four of which were from the Rose Bakery cookbook. Still dreaming about/drooling over my visit there. Carrot and Seed Salad from the Rose Bakery cookbook:

Serves 6
1 cup sunflower seeds
1 tablespoon sunflower oil
pinch of salt
8 medium carrots, grated
1 handful chopped chives

For the dressing:
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon sugar
about 3 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and, if you wish, mix the seeds with oil.

Season the seeds with the salt, and spread them evenly on a baking tray and bake for approximately 15 minutes till they are lightly roasted and crisp, turning frequently. Set aside to cool.

Place the carrots in a serving bowl.

To make the dressing, whisk together the lemon juice, salt, pepper and sugar in a bowl, then whisk in the oil. Check the seasoning - you may need more salt, sugar, or lemon juice.

Pour the dressing over the carrots and mix well.

Sprinkle with the chives and the cooled seeds.

Anabela snapped a picture of Erin and I looking swell and full of salads.

I've also been enjoying quiet/hot mornings on my back deck in which I take photos of my breakfast and reread The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle. I can't wait(!!!) for the English translation of Murakami's 1Q84 to be released here this fall. (Speaking of autumn releases, I'm also mega-excited for the new Jeffrey Eugenides book, The Marriage Plot.)

Also, this song is pretty much it.
Midnight City by M83

PLANTS AND SUCH

2011-07-10T03:45:00.001-07:00

01 Blog

The Plant Journal is so good, you guys! I picked up a copy on Friday and am really enjoying it. So many beautiful photos, articles, and tips which have given me inspiration to become better at gardening (or at least keeping my herbs alive). Get a copy. Anyway, here's some plant stuff that I like from around the internets:

Stephen Eichhorn

Ye Rin Mok

Bonjour Johanna

Matt Blodgett via For Me, For You

SOUTH KOREA

2011-07-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken by my friend Amy Baker on her recent visit to Korea (jeaaaalous) and I'm completely obsessed with it. The composition is crazy amazing, as are her pink nails and that watermelon treat. I've been feeling really nostalgic for Seoul lately and this photo is making me even more so. Anyway, hope you enjoy! You can find Amy on tumblr here: http://helloamy.tumblr.com/.

SHELVES AND ELLE GIRL KOREA

2011-06-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

Carlos (who is also responsible for the installation on the right) made some shelves to display our favourite magazines - the covers are so beautiful I always feel like they should be up on the wall rather than in a stack on our coffee table. Especially Acne Paper. I bought the postcard version of the Louise Bourgeois Be Calm print in Paris (at Palais de Tokyo) after admiring it in these photos of Cheri's apartment. The masking tape is MT, which I picked up at Merci (whyyy didn't I get more when living in Seoul).

And another for the bedroom - that little t table card needed a place to stand!

Speaking of Seoul, I was part of Elle Girl Korea's 100th issue which celebrated the taste of 100 global girls. There I am at no. 54 talkin' about stuff I like, such as Apartamento, Acne Paper, Zadie Smith, Nars Schiap, Karen Walker sunglasses, Robyn, and Korean stationery.

SUMMER LIVING

2011-06-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

More Smitten Kitchen dining (as always). My parents came to visit last weekend and brought some things to spruce up our back deck. These peonies came from my mother's garden and have rotated around the apartment all week.

The Monkey's Paw is having an exhibition at 1080 Queen St. West. Really nice prints and an extensive collection of Penguin Classics.

Carlos and I also finally tried Porchetta and Co. (!!!) Just. so. good. TRUFFLE SAUCE every day, please.

I posted about Korean magazine Versus awhile ago, but I really love it. Lots of shade in our backyard!

First BBQ of the season. When my parents came, they also brought Carlos a little bbq for his birthday (Happy Birthday Carlos!). We tried it out last night for dinner (started with hotdogs from The Healthy Butcher - gotta work our way up). We also learned a great tip regarding corn on the cob - squeeze lime juice on it when buttering it up. It was seriously the best. Thanks Daniella!

WE CHILDREN OF THE ZOO

2011-06-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this editorial for online magazine Atomica shot by Michal Pudelka. Summmmmmer.

FAVOURITE DRESS

2011-06-16T16:24:00.001-07:00

I'm over on M Dash today for her new favourite dress feature. I've been following/admiring Michelle for quite some time so I was so pleased when she asked me to share my best dress with her readers. Actually, I don't have many (I mostly wear skirts/shirts) but this one is a new-ish addition to my wardrobe and I wear it all the time. Also, I'm pretty sure my satchel is glowing.

About the dress/accessories:

I bought it when I went to Paris from COS. I like it because I love to wear baggy/tent-like silhouettes and I like that it is very basic so it would feel right for multiple occasions. I dressed it up with my neon Cambridge Satchel and a necklace by Toronto designer Jules Power. The shoes are Dieppa Restrepo loafers which I wear pretty much daily.

Thanks, Michelle - looking forward to seeing who's up next!

WEEKEND

2011-06-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

Lots of Smitten Kitchen-ing followed by outdoor eating this weekend, you guys. Carlos roasted some peppers (for this recipe) which we loved on top of crusty slices of baguette.

In between eating, I did some reading. And movie watching - Midnight in Paris, finally. Owen Wilson was perfect.

Here's Charlie, one of our neighbourhood feral cats. Our neighbour distributes a newsletter every now and then with photos/names of the cat colony. Last night six of the kitties were having a group hang/snug in our backyard. It was definitely the highlight of Carlos's weekend.

For Sunday's dinner we picked up a roasted chicken from Inigo and I made that amazing potato salad again annnd this super easy green bean and cherry tomato salad. Seriously, how much do I/you love Smitten Kitchen? I can't wait for Deb's cookbook.

What are your favourite food blogs/cooking sites?

GIRLS

2011-06-09T05:44:00.000-07:00

Stills from the upcoming Closet Visit film by Jeana Sohn.

As I freaking love Karen Walker sunglasses (I have this pair from Chasse Gardee), I almost gasped when I saw that first picture on my reader. Don't even get me started about the flower backdrop. And that second one...so dreamy the next Closet Visit film will be.

Vanessa Jackman: Natalie for Grazia.it

I'm obsessed with that pom pom necklace (which Natalie made herself). So beautiful.

Yara De Nicola via HNTR GTHRR

Those eyebrows!!!

SALAD PARTY

2011-06-04T10:44:00.001-07:00

Last night, prior to the ROBYN concert (!!!), my friend Cydnie and I had a salad-centric dinner in my backyard. I whipped together this salad from Smitten Kitchen (which was a great success) and picked up two others from Inigo on Queen West (lentil/squash and beet/apple). Inigo also has just the best roasted chicken and its location (across from the park) makes it so good for a takeout picnic! Next weekend, maybe. Afterward we went and danced our little hearts out to my favourite singer/performer/DANCER. Ever.

ASHLEY ROWE

2011-06-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Ashley Rowe SS11

Toronto-based designer Ashley Rowe's SS11 lookbook is all kinds of amazing - dream hair, bright lips, and TIE-DYE. What more do you need?

SHIPLEY & HALMOS

2011-05-31T03:10:00.001-07:00

Shipley & Halmos S/S11 (via 01 blog)

DINNER PARTY

2011-05-30T17:39:00.000-07:00

Before I left for Paris, my friend Rachel invited Carlos and I over for dinner. She made pasta from scratch (something I found to be very impressive/delicious) and the whole meal was just really lovely. I wish I remembered to take some pictures of the food! Anyway, her house is so beautifully decorated that I did manage to pull out my disposable for a few quick photos.

LATELY

2011-05-28T06:27:00.000-07:00

tulips and tarts pre-dinner party// double rainbow rainbow opening reception at Show & Tell Gallery// strolling down Ossington// a corner of the MOCCA Courtyard Installation// new neon Cambridge Satchel from A2ZANE// a pea frittata and sandwich from Saving Grace// friends taking advantage of an herbs sale

SUNDAY DINNERS

2011-05-23T09:37:00.001-07:00

Jim Haynes once invented a verb to describe what he does. The verb is 'to fuller'. Fullering, according to Jim, means to spend your time and energy joyfully. And the first payment for fullering is the happiness that comes from doing what you're doing. Jim Haynes himself is a bona fide fullerer, and, as befits a fullerer, he proudly proclaims he hasn't worked a day in his life.
(excerpt from apartamento)

On Thursday I picked up the latest issue of apartamento (get yours at Robber) and practically screamed when I flipped to the following article about Jim Haynes. Before going to Paris, Gill emailed me to see if I wanted to attend one of Jim Haynes' Sunday Dinners. I hadn't yet heard of him and thought, why not. We were put on the waiting list, but Jim assured us that we would most likely be able to attend.

And attend we did. Here are some pictures I took from the Sunday Dinner we were at - which happened to fall on Easter Sunday. The menu? Rabbit cassoulet, of course. Accompanied by a crisp apple and beet salad, with brownies and ice cream for dessert. And lots of red wine. As the weather was nice, the party spilled out into his garden. I didn't take too many photos of the evening, as I was distracted by the good food and company (and balancing my plate and cup). We met people from all over the world and ended up continuing the night with some girls from London. If you get the chance, I highly suggest trying to head over to Jim's one Sunday.

A FEW MORE

2011-05-20T17:27:00.000-07:00

My first meal in Paris - Gill and I shared these two salads. The lentils were amaaazing - not to mention the goat cheese and the lardons. I was pretty much in heaven.

More sweets.

Inside a nice shop in the ninth.

One day I was wandering around by myself and came across this wall - somewhere near Gare du Nord.

A market in Le Marais.

Adorable pups and happy hour.

Bonbons!

NICE OUTFIT

2011-05-17T06:26:00.000-07:00

Complex Geometries block-T in black

(Toronto friends: In case you didn't already know, there's a CG sample sale this Saturday...yessss)

Wood & Horn Collar by Jenny Bird (available at rac boutique in Toronto)

PHOTO BOOTH

2011-05-15T07:29:00.000-07:00

Sweet Johanna had sent me a list of places to visit while I was in Paris and on it was BONTON, an adorable children's store. Located just down the street from Merci, Bonton is certainly worth visiting - especially to check out their super(!!!) cute children's hair salon and to take advantage of their antique Quebecois photo booth.

POSTCARDS

2011-05-11T03:34:00.001-07:00

There's a scene in 2 Days in Paris, when Jack and Marion have just arrived, where Jack is snapping away pictures in the cab, exclaiming excitedly that the light is making everything look like a postcard of Paris. That's how I felt for much of my trip, as the weather was pretty much amazing - especially in the evening. Sitting in that park (last picture) and people watching was one of my favourite moments in Paris.

Thank you for your kind words! I had to repost this when blogger crashed and took the comments with it.

GOOD EATS IN THE NINTH

2011-05-08T06:55:00.000-07:00

You pretty much need seven stomachs to visit the Ninth. I was looking forward to trying Rose Bakery, which was our original destination, but Gill and I also came across some of the places listed in this article.

Hotel Amour was just beautiful. Look at those cupcakes! That terrace! The croissants and flowers! It would have been a wonderful experience to stay here, no doubt.

I really liked the look of these bicycles lined up outside the hotel. I desperately need a bike.

La Maison Mere, located next to Hotel Amour, specializes in cheeseburgers and stylish servers. Although we didn't stop for lunch here that day, Gill and I returned for a late dinner one evening. She had the cheeseburger, and I, the steak frites. Our server was wearing an adorable romper with a denim fisherman's vest over top - so cute. The atmosphere here at night was incredible - as it was at many other neighbouring restaurants. Such a great area.

That day, we enjoyed our brunch at Rose Bakery's original location. The servers here were SO friendly, which made the experience even more lovely.

The staff all wore these striped aprons by Comme Des Garcons, which were available to purchase.

Upon recommendation I ordered the eggs benedict and the carrot cake for dessert (although it was difficult to decide).

They also had a range of takeout items - pizzas, quiches, salads, and, of course, lots of desserts.

I'll have to get my hands on their cookbook.

Of course there wasn't a shortage of delicious looking bakeries and cheese shops all over the Ninth. See what I mean? At least seven stomachs.

ORANGE + PINK

2011-05-06T06:23:00.000-07:00

In Paris I was obsessed with this beautiful plant which was blooming outside of my friend Gill's residence. Way too pretty. I especially like how it looks when paired with the orange blinds of this Parisian apartment building.

You can see more of my flower-filled pictures over at Fieldguided today, where I did another guest post.

NICE VIEW

2011-05-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

A few more pictures from my trip:

The first is of my friend Gill (and her cute hat!), in front of a wall sticker after my own heart.

The next is of M. Chat, a smiling street art cat that I spotted all around Seoul and was so pleased to see in Paris.

Third, catching the last few minutes of sunlight in Montmartre.

I also did a little cat-themed guest post (featuring M. Chat) over at Fieldguided, while Anabela is away in London for the opening of Other People's Houses. I can't wait to see pictures of that event!

MERCI

2011-05-03T05:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Merci, for having the installation of my dreams up when I came to visit.

I mean, look at this!!!

This fork is wearing a sweater!

Oh my GOD. Seriously, it was so beautiful.

And these spoons - pastel, dip-dyed heaven.

They also had three floors of just really nice, well selected stuff. Stationery, clothing, furniture, linens, etc. The home wares were amaaazing.

On my second last morning in Paris, I enjoyed dippy eggs in their Used Book Cafe (at this time, the dream installation had been traded in for something new - still cool, but not as good).

Gill and I also had a late lunch at Merci's Cinema Cafe on our first visit. The charcuterie plate was simple and delicious.

This shop was certainly one of the highlights of my trip - thanks to all who recommended I pay it a visit.

BONJOUR

2011-05-02T06:23:00.001-07:00

A quick hello as I settle back in from my trip to Paris. It was so good - sweets and flowers, cheese and wine, and lots of walking/admiring. I have lots of pictures to share (mostly of sweets and flowers, haha), which I will be doing here over the next little while. The lipstick pictured is Nars Schiap, which I wore pretty much every day of my trip. Also, the latest issue of The Gentlewoman is AMAZING and was indispensable at the airport. My friend Gill took the first photo of me looking up, as that was the last tip my mother gave me before I left - don't forget to look up. So much beauty up there!

THANK YOU

2011-04-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

A few things before I go: fresh tulips, a gallery display that caught my eye, and a little Niçoise salad - my favourite.

Thank you all for your wonderful suggestions! I'm leaving in a few short hours for Paris and I really appreciate the thoughtful comments and tips on my previous post. xo

PARIS

2011-04-05T16:46:00.001-07:00

(Miss Moss - I really enjoyed looking through Diana's Paris photos - so many goodies; street style shots by Mr. Newton; two seriously beautiful shots by Madelene at Le Portillon)

I'm leaving for Paris in two weeks on a trip to visit my friend Gill who is living there for the time being. If you have any tips on things I must see/do, I would love to hear them, as it will be my first time there. I don't really have any plans other than to wander around, drink wine, eat sweets, and take millions of pictures (although I am pretty excited to visit Colette). I've also noticed that Danica has compiled a list of highlights from her past trip, which will no doubt come in handy. Thank you in advance for any suggestions!

SPRING

2011-04-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

A plant-themed post today, as it's really starting to feel like spring here in Toronto. These photos were taken while I was living in Seoul - potted plants galore!

CLOSET VISIT KOREA: MINJI KIM

2011-03-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

Jeana Sohn took her latest Closet Visit to Garosu-gil, one of my favourite streets in Seoul. Minji Kim works at 103, a great little clothing store in Korea, with locations in Myeong-dong, Sinsa-dong, and Hongdae (and perhaps more, but those were the three I frequented).

Update: Here's a picture I took of the newest 103 store in Hongdae - so cute!

WON HUNDRED

2011-03-29T17:53:00.000-07:00

FLATFORMS!

LATELY

2011-03-29T16:42:00.001-07:00

Carlos and I have been eating lots of warm salads - like the roasted carrot and avocado one pictured above and this one. I've also been really enjoying the latest issue of Bad Day Magazine - there's so much good stuff in there, guys! Interviews with Sofia Coppola, Vanessa Beecroft, Panda Bear, Thomas Persson, etc.

The "dirt bombs" at Capital Espresso in Parkdale are dangerously good (along with their muffins - I love the carrot coconut, especially).

Carlos is a master layer-er!

We finally made it back to Saving Grace last Saturday. We JUST missed getting seated right away, so had to wait, which I didn't really mind. I was very impressed with the fig frittata. Figs in eggs! Who knew.

IKO IKO

2011-03-26T06:01:00.000-07:00

Babe! by Natascha Snellman // wooden zig zags by Waka Waka

A couple of things that made me happy this morning from IKO IKO. See also: this song.

YE RIN MOK

2011-03-25T17:07:00.000-07:00

Nice work from Seoul-born photographer Ye Rin Mok.

SILVER FALLS ANTIQUES

2011-03-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

Silver Falls, vintage purveyor and home of my fave five dollar silk Adrienne Vittadini top, has opened up an antique shop at 1080 Queen Street West, next to Art History (another favourite). Yesss!

TO BE DETACHED

2011-03-19T17:17:00.000-07:00

A Détacher Spring RTW 2011 via Style.com

I tried on a few of these pieces at Chasse Gardée today (black silk/linen sack, I'm looking at you!) and I'm pretty obsessed. Perfect shapes, perfect colours.

BRUNCH SET

2011-03-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

SUNNY DAYS + GIVEAWAY WINNERS

2011-03-07T16:47:00.000-08:00

As I've been a total hermit lately, here are some photos from more agreeable weather last summer in Seoul. Sigh.

Anyway, on to more important things. Thank you to all who participated in the giveaway and a BIG thanks to Jung Eun Park! The winners are May, Ringo Have a Banana, Jess, and berkeley. Please email me (merchant.katie@gmail.com) your address to receive the zines.

JUNG EUN PARK x GIVEAWAY

2011-03-04T07:54:00.001-08:00

I received the best package from Korean illustrator Jung Eun Park this week. Slippers, zines, postcards, and a lovely handwritten note! I've wanted to do a giveaway here for a while and thought that both of Jung's self-published zines, Cicciolina the Cat and Herbs, would be perfect. I picked up my own copies in Seoul at The Book Society, but Jung has generously sent me some to give to you.

If you'd like to enter, please leave a comment below and I will pick four winners at random on Monday evening (each winner will receive both zines).

I posted previously about Herbs here and Cicciolina the Cat here.

Good luck!

MIXMIX

2011-03-02T17:52:00.000-08:00

Yours truly, complete with cat face, taken by Anabela at our last brunch at the Hoof Cafe (RIP).

Amazing pony and fistail braid from a sweet Russh shoot, The Great New Wave.

The Week of Wonder Headband by Alexandra Grecco

Free Time well spent. I want to be at this table (with my hair in braids/a top knot), taping shapes to walls! (via Montmarte)

OUT FRONT

2011-03-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

Exterior bomb!!!

BONJOUR JOHANNA

2011-02-23T16:38:00.001-08:00

all images from Bonjour Johanna

A new addition to my regular reads, Bonjour Johanna is a sweet blog run by Johanna Tagada, a textile design student and creator of Miam Attaque. I had a hard time choosing which photos to post here as I really love her aesthetic! Too cute.

LATELY

2011-02-23T15:46:00.001-08:00

I've been wishing it was spring so I could wear my favourite piece of (tent) clothing by Korean label Plasma Sphere/Patron Saint.

Here's a little portrait of my handsome man, taken at Crema during a visit to the Junction.

I've been painting my nails with two new shades of beautifully packaged RGB polish (Camel and Oxblood) from rac boutique (which is daaangerously close to work).

Here's a sneak peek of what Carlos has been working on - can you spot me?

I also had THE BEST salad at the Drake on Family Day - apples, white cheddar, pecans... mustard vinaigrette. Will be recreating immediately.

MIXMIX

2011-02-16T05:21:00.001-08:00

Native Trees of Canada by Leanne Shapton via I'm Revolting

Kim Catton, assistant clothing buyer of Aritzia
01 Magazine
Photos by: Jennilee Marigomen

photo by: David Zilber, via his thirty-five millimetre blog, RECIDIVISM

HONGDAE

2011-02-15T16:43:00.000-08:00

I LOVE U

2011-02-15T16:02:00.000-08:00

I meant to do this little love day post yesterday, but well, I went and saw Biutiful last night and cried like a baby (we're talking serious lobster eyes from about ten minutes into the movie until I crawled into bed). That said, I highly recommend it. Highly. Sigh. Anyway, my day of hearts was a happy one - Carlos, the thoughtful guy he is, caught me off guard with a tube of Tom Ford lipstick in Pure Pink (the best!!!) and some posies from Coriander Girl. And I thought I wasn't into Valentine's Day.

MORE TENTS

2011-02-12T07:37:00.001-08:00

Dream tents, in the very best palette.

Central Saint Martins Graduation Show via Tourist Magazine

SOMEWHERE, SINCE I MET YOU

2011-02-10T16:42:00.000-08:00

Another round of the stationery I brought back from Korea - it seems I might be able to open a small shop. Still more to come!

SHIRONEKO HOLGA

2011-02-10T16:26:00.000-08:00

I developed my first roll of film from the Shironeko Holga (AKA the best party camera ever) that Carlos gave me for Christmas. I was so pleased with the results and the flash - so fun.

LOOKING BACK

2011-02-08T16:54:00.000-08:00

Some Seoul snaps from last year.

DREAMCOAT

2011-02-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm dying over this vintage windbreaker (the one on the right) by Issey Miyake (found at Assembly New York). All tents, all the time.

I AM YOUR BEST FRIENDS

2011-01-31T18:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a sampling of the stationery I brought home from Korea - more to come!

SWAN

2011-01-31T17:52:00.001-08:00

Carlos and I went for an early brunch at Swan last Sunday.

ESSENTIALS

2011-01-28T09:18:00.000-08:00

Danica tagged me to post my five daily essentials... so here they are:

1) MAC matte lipstick in Ruby Woo - I really love wearing matte lipstick, and this one is my favourite.

2) Notepad by O-Check - I bought so much O-Check stationery while I was in Korea and on one visit they gave me this sweet little notepad. I'm happy and surprised to see O-Check popping up around Toronto as well.

3) Glasses - My glasses are Alain Mikli and I bought them on a bit of a whim in Sinsa-dong, Seoul. Lenses in Korea are SUPER reasonably priced/amazing quality, hence the slightly less reasonably priced frames.

4) A camera - While in Korea I only used a little Canon PowerShot but now that I'm back, I've been using a Nikon D2H, a Canon AE-1, and this Shironeko Holga that Carlos gave me for Christmas (from Magic Pony). It's very fun to bring out at night - and is, of course, my most photogenic camera.

5) Tinted Moisturizer - I first read about this Dior Pro-Youth Skin Tint on Into The Gloss. It really is good for getting dewy skin.

LATELY

2011-01-25T15:56:00.000-08:00

I've been eating millions of grapefruits (and trying to - unsuccessfully - ward off getting sick).I've been enjoying keeping track of January with Fieldguided's Dreamcats Calendar. Thanks, Anabela and Geoff!

I finally found time to revisit Hoof Cafe to have their Ploughman's breakfast AKA amazing charcuterie at 10am (not pictured: spot prawns and grits + bone marrow donuts, which were, if possible, even more amazing).

I received a really lovely package from Satu in Helsinki with her latest zine full of beautiful shots taken while she was visiting Seoul. Above is an alley in my favourite neighbourhood, Hongdae. On the right is the Quattro, a restaurant that Carlos and I always ate at.

I've also been trying to cook more at home - here is a recent recipe from smitten kitchen: chard and white bean stew. It was sooo good, and yielded lots of leftovers. I'm usually hit or miss when it comes to making poached eggs, but this time was a success.

THE COVETED

2011-01-23T06:54:00.000-08:00

Fiona Green has such NICE STUFF!

THANK YOU, OK x DESIGN SPONGE

2011-01-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

On the street, Sinsa-dong

Vintage shop, Salon Yong, Hongdae

Art Space Pool, Itaewon

Ssamziegil, Insa-dong

Space Hamilton, Itaewon

The Seoul city guide I wrote for the fantastic Design Sponge has been published - here it is! I'm really thrilled to share my findings with Design Sponge's readers (as well as all of you), and hope that everyone who has the chance to go to Seoul will enjoy what I loved most about the city.

MIDDAY SERIES

2011-01-17T19:04:00.000-08:00

Leslie Hewitt
Midday Series
Untitled (Seems to be Necessary), 2009
Color photograph in custom maple wood frame

Untitled (Connecting), 2009
Color photograph in custom maple wood frame

I was very happy to see these two pieces by Leslie Hewitt at the AGO this past Saturday (although I do recognize that it was naughty of me to sneak these pictures inside the gallery, but... I just couldn't resist!). I like her so much.

UNBREAKABLE WIND

2011-01-14T17:21:00.000-08:00

Awhile ago I posted some scans from Korean label The Centaur's 10 S/S Lookbook. Anyway, I've just noticed that designer Ye Ranji's website has relaunched and you can view her beautiful line in much better quality - I'm eagerly awaiting the S/S 11 collection pictures. If you're in Seoul, the flagship store is located in Itaewon, and definitely worth checking out (I'm jealous).

CONFETTI SYSTEM

2011-01-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

As you can see, Carlos and I added a little something to our room: a Confetti System pinata! They're kind of a steal at the Drake General Store right now, and there are still a few left. I felt a wee bit silly carrying it through Parkdale, but I'm super happy now that it's up. Plus, it has the sweetest hatch door.

NICOLE SIMONE x CLOSET VISIT

2011-01-10T15:35:00.000-08:00

I don't know where I've been looking on the internets, but I hadn't seen artist Jeana Sohn's blog until Danica posted about it last week. Since then, Jeana's new site, solely dedicated to these seriously good closets, has launched at http://closetvisit.com/. I'm dying over singer Nicole Simone's wardrobe (those neutrals!) and am especially inspired by her hair. So much so that I've booked an appointment to ombre up my own locks tomorrow - time for a change!

THEY TOLD YOU

2011-01-05T18:40:00.001-08:00

Carlos is having an art show at the Gladstone Hotel, which runs from January 5th - 16th. The opening reception is tomorrow (Thursday) night from 7-10pm. If you're in Toronto and into cool art, you should pop by and say hello. I'm so proud of him and really excited that he is sharing the pieces he made while we were in Korea with Toronto (although I am missing them from our walls).

MARIE ANTOINETTE

2011-01-01T15:32:00.000-08:00

Here are two desserts I picked up from Nadege to enjoy today with some mimosas. Since the ridiculously pretty macaron cake was called Marie Antoinette I obviously had to get it. The other was a grapefruit and Earl Grey tart. They were both very delicious.

2010

2010-12-31T08:20:00.000-08:00

A snowy Seoul in January

February

March

April

May
(I highly anticipated cherry blossom season in Seoul - it did not disappoint.)

June

July

August - our last month in Korea.

September - to Toronto!

October

November

December

Happy New Year and all the best in 2011 xx

MY ROOM

2010-12-29T15:26:00.000-08:00

AN ART SERVICE

2010-12-17T07:31:00.000-08:00

An Art Service is a New York City based design studio that works in publications, branding, and websites.

(via 01 Magazine)

tweet tweet

2010-12-12T06:59:00.000-08:00

Adam Niklewicz
Untitled, 2008
oil paint, slice of bread (a bite consumed by the artist)
(via Intelligent Clashing)

thank you, ok is on twitter now! It seems I've mostly been tweeting about food.
Anyway, you can follow me here - Happy Sunday!

hello winter

2010-12-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

Scarves, cloaks, and cold-weather clogs (no socks needed!!!) from No. 6 Daily.

THE UNICORN

2010-12-10T05:34:00.000-08:00

Sonja Ahlers
Sweater Bunnies
2010. Angora wool. 2"

Tonight is Narwhal's opening reception for their annual holiday art show, The Unicorn. I'm excited to see way more of Sonja Ahlers' sweater bunnies.