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Anita Clarke/I want – I got in Vogue Italia

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I want - I got/Anita Clarke in Vogue Italia

I want – I got/Anita Clarke in Vogue Italia

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think Anita Clarke and Vogue would be spoken in the same sentence. I was minding my own business in November of last year when an interview request landing in my inbox. I had to do a complete double take when I saw Vogue.it in the subject line. “Vogue Italia, Are you shitting me?”, I thought, “This is just too crazy. Vogue Italia and me, WTF”. The email was from Shomara Roosblad, an Amsterdam based fashion writer who contributes to Vogue.it and runs the website My roots, My style!. My roots, My Style! documents the story behind stylish women around the globe. (OMFG, I’m considered a stylish woman worldwide, WTF) Shomara wanted to do an interview with me to discuss my style influences accompanied by a slideshow of photos that would be featured on My roots, My style! and Vogue.it. Of course, I said yes because who’s the idiot who says no to this kinda thing.

I’m a great secret keeper (ask some of my friends, they will agree I’m a vault). I kept this under my hat for months. I didn’t want to start talking this up and have it fall through. Wouldn’t that be the ultimate in embarrassment. I didn’t even tell my Mom (who got a shoutout). She discovered it after it was published and then scolded me for not telling her. Sometimes I hate doing interviews because I always miss something. That happened with this one and I just want to give my friend Jason aka The Oracle a shout out here. He’s been a major fashion influence in my adult life.

So check out the link at Anita Clarke – Vogue.it. I guess this is the biggest recognition this little fashion blogger from Toronto has received over the almost 8 years I want – I got has been in existence. I wish my Dad was here to see this first hand as he’s always been one of my biggest supporters and cheerleaders.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

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Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

The Smythe Spring Summer 2014 collection takes their classic tailoring and minimalism to new heights with suiting in liquid textures in Flouro and Petrol Shine. They recently expanded to trousers and this spring summer we will see skirts as the new must haves from Smythe.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

As with every Smythe collection there are a lot of I want – I got approved pieces. I’m loving the Petro Shine suiting. Turn heads with the total suit or if that’s too much for you, just go with the pants. It might be a bit bright for most but I’d totally wear it to the office.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

I was at an event late last year and saw the Foil Pant in person. They are so hot it’s not even funny and in the perfect silver shade.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

The Flouro liquid texture suit is gorgeous too. It doesn’t have the leather vibe like the Petro Shine but it’s still gorgeous.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

It’s not a Smythe collection without a military inspired jacket and Spring Watch Jacket is a great colour. The Smythe skirts are adorable. There is one that isn’t pictured because I didn’t like it that much but it’s more office friendly than the shorter ones that get the I want – I got stamp of approval.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

The Harem Pants with the tassel are a must have in black and tangerine. I’m obsessed.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

On my bucket list is a jacket with tails and this is the perfect cropped jacket with mini tails.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

There are some great rainwear this season and I love this leopard print Lab Coat one. If you are looking for something more classic, check out the Khaki Walking coat.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

Smythe Spring Summer 2014

I’ve notice that Bomber Jackets are going to be a big trend this spring summer. This classic black bomber has a twist, it’s quilted.

Smythe Spring Summer 2014 hits stores this month. You can find Smythe in the GTA at TNT Women, Holt Renfrew, Andrews Bayview Village, Grafic Woman and NYLA.

images: Courtesy of Smythe.

i want: Thom Browne Letterman Jacket

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Thom Browne Letterman Jacket

Thom Browne Letterman Jacket

Letterman Jackets have been flicking in and out of my radar for the last couple of years. I’d really like one but I’m very particular. Most Letterman jackets that I love are out of out of my budget so it figures I’m absolutely in love with the Thom Browne version. I really should have bought a Letterman jacket when I was in University but I’ve never really wanted to be a walking billboard for my alma mater. I’d happily subject myself to being a Thom Browne billboard any day.

Thom Browne Letterman Jacket

Thom Browne Letterman Jacket

The Thom Browne Letterman Jacket is made from a cashmere boucle. I’m drooling as I’m typing this. This jacket is very traditional with the leather sleeves but steps up the style quotient with the cashmere body. The lining of the jacket is silk. The Letterman Jacket In Cashmere Boucle by Thom Browne is from the Pre Fall 2014 collection and is available for pre-order on Moda Operandi. It will cost you a whopping $4,700, a $2,350 deposit. The Thom Browne women’s collection is available at The Room, The Hudson’s Bay in Toronto.

images: modaoperandi.com

I want – I got’s Toronto Design Offsite Festival 2014 Picks

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I want - I got's Toronto Design Offsite Festival 2014 Picks

Toronto Design Offsite Festival – January 20 – 26, 2014

In Toronto the third week in January is all about design. Some really cool people I know help make the Toronto Design Offsite Festival a reality.

The Toronto Design Offsite Festival (TO DO) is a not-for-profit, independent design festival happening annually at the end of January. TO DO’s aim is to provide exposure for local and national designers; to foster public understanding and knowledge of the practice of design; and to create an ongoing presence that promotes Canada’s creativity, drawing on great thinkers, practitioners, and educators to a deliver an innovative celebration of art and design.

The TO DO Festival runs from January 20 – 26, 2014. Here are some I want – I got approved options if you are looking to check it out.

A Film: Eames: The Architect and The Painter
Tue, Jan 21, 2014
Herman Miller Canada Showroom | Film
Narrated by James Franco, the film brings to light a virgin cache of archival material, visually stunning films, photographs and artifacts produced by Charles and Ray Eames with their talented staff during the hypercreative forty-year epoch of the Eames Office.

Accumulation
Mon, Jan 20, 2014 – Sun, Feb 16, 2014
ARTiculations | Exhibition
Out of matte white paper, Christine Kim has constructed light geometrical structures assembled together like cumulus clouds. For this installation, she explores the relationship between light and shadow through the cut, the fold, and the curve of paper.

Capacity
Thu, Jan 23, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Gladstone Hotel Art Bar | Exhibition
The fourth annual CAPACITY is a contemporary design show featuring new, theme-specific work by Canadian women designers. This year our participants draw inspiration from the work and/or life of design pioneer Ray Eames as a starting point for their Capacity 2014 projects.

Code Switch
Mon, Jan 20, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Delight Chocolate | Window Installation
This two-part installation turns the margins of everyday architecture on its side, quite literally, by illuminating the essential elements of our built environment. Make your own connections by controlling the installed lighting display with the touch of a brick wall.

Come Up To My Room
Thu, Jan 23, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Gladstone Hotel | Exhibition
Come Up To My Room is the Gladstone Hotel’s annual alternative design event with 25 installations and 4000 visitors, all in under 4 days. The 60 artists and designers are limited only by their imaginations, making it one of the most exciting shows in Toronto.

Crease Patterns
Mon, Jan 20, 2014 – Thu, Feb 20, 2014
Cornerstone Home Interiors | Window Installation
Totem Rug Design and Lori Harrison collaborate on an installation of rugs and textiles inspired by origami. Their window installation titled ‘Crease Patterns’ will connect the ephemeral world of paper folding with the timeless art of textile design.

Do Design
Thu, Jan 23, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Various venues on Dundas Street West between Bathurst and Grace Streets | Exhibition
Do Design celebrates contemporary design in diverse settings of a vibrant neighbourhood. Over 20 individual works plus two exhibitions are showcased in local venues including design stores, cafes, bars, salons and boutiques along Dundas Street West (Bathurst to Grace Streets).

Letterpress Workshop
Wed, Jan 22, 2014
Graven Feather | Workshop | Collaboration
This workshop is a brief introduction to the use of letterpress to make simple and beautiful cards. It’s the perfect opportunity to come and experiment on the presses using old-fashion metal type and vintage designs.

Oasis Skateboard Factory Pop Up Shop
Fri, Jan 24, 2014 – Fri, Jan 31, 2014
The Baitshop | Exhibition
Oasis Skateboard Factory, the only street art and skateboard design high school in the world, presents their end-of-semester pop-up shop. The exhibit will showcase handcrafted, student built and designed skateboards.

patternpattern
Sat, Jan 18, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Graven Feather | Exhibition
Process becomes pattern in this installation by textile designers Lysanne Latulippe and Meghan Price of STRING THEORY. Here a collection of scarves is presented within walls that describe their making.

Sweetness of the Work – Spinning Jenny
Wed, Jan 15, 2014 – Sat, Mar 01, 2014
Gerhard Supply | Window Installation
A glittering, salt encrusted Singer sewing machine and handmade bobbins of salted hand spun linen paper, plus additional salted tools of the ‘trade’ and embroidered works – Sweetness of the Work pays homage to the art and history of sewing, revering the virtuosity of hand work interpreted through a modern lens.

TO DO Opening Party at SMASH
Wed, Jan 22, 2014 – Thu, Jan 23, 2014
SMASH | Design Party
Come and find out what the festival is about, meet local designers, experience amazing salvage furniture and curiosities at SMASH, and dance with the amazing community that makes the Festival happen.

TO DO Closing Party with Love Design
Sat, Jan 25, 2014 – Sun, Jan 26, 2014
Gladstone Hotel | Design Party
After an amazing Festival week, there is no better way to close it than with another party. Join us at the free Love Design Party, where we celebrate the 11th year of the Gladstone Hotel’s iconic show Come Up To My Room.

This is just a small selection of events happening during the TO DO Festival. Be sure to check out the Toronto Design Offsite Festival website for full festival details.

Follow the TO DO Festival
Instagram – http://instagram.com/todesignoffsite
Twitter – http://twitter.com/TODesignOffsite and the hashtag #todo14
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/TorontoDesignOffsiteFestival

i want: Rick Owens Hun Jacket

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Rick Owens Hun Jacket

Rick Owens Hun Jacket

It’s fucking freezing in Toronto right now and it has me thinking about fur. Rick Owens fur. Of course, I like to look at what the designers are creating and the jackets often cost more than a car or a down payment on a house. Some are amazing feats of cut and colour and others are pretty garish. Ideally, a vintage fur jacket is on my list of must haves. It’s cheaper and I like the look of vintage fur. Whenever I’m vintage shopping I check out the fur racks, in case I find that magical piece.

Rick Owens Hun Jacket

Rick Owens Hun Jacket

The Rick Owens Hun Jacket is made of Fisher fur jacket and has leather sleeves. It wouldn’t be great for -30 at all considering it’s from the Spring Summer 2014 collection but man it’s a very stylish and modern looking fur coat. Fur done cool, the only way possible in the land of Rick Owens. This puppy cost $31,752 and is available on RickOwens.eu.

images: rickowens.eu

Dreaming of Warmth with Roberto Cavalli Spring Summer 2014

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Roberto Cavalli Spring Summer 2014

Roberto Cavalli Spring Summer 2014

I have a winter skiing vacation planned in February but this bitter cold over the last few weeks has me dreaming of the spring and summer. Naturally, I’m thinking of all the new fashions that will be hitting the stores very soon. One of my favourite collections for Spring Summer 2014 is Roberto Cavalli. I can’t believe it myself.

Roberto Cavalli Spring Summer 2014

Roberto Cavalli Spring Summer 2014

The S/S 2014 Roberto Cavalli collection is inspired by the cinematography of the silver screen, in a projection of femininity. Unique, romantic and exuberant, the Roberto Cavalli woman is the Goddess of a sensual revolution where images shine in the gowns just like in dreams. The desire to enhance reality through the filter of an extraordinary cinematographic light which becomes real in the seductive silhouettes and sinuous outlines of the clothes. Silver dominates the scene. Subtle hues of powder pink, pearl grey, mint green and light blue contrasted with black and white. Embroideries created with satin crystal baguettes, metal suspensions and Mukesh embellishment techniques stand out on the geometric cuts of the fluid dresses. Slip dresses, flowing caftans, jacquard prints, lace and tie-dye create contrasting and faded effects embodied in dynamic and luminous shapes. Python, iguana, crocodile and denim patchwork pants and jackets redefine the iconic heritage of the Maison in a contemporary style.(source: Roberto Cavalli YouTube)

This collection hit all my 20s style buttons hard. The embroidery and embellishments are incredible and at the same time very wearable. Everything is on point with this collection from the sweeping gowns, reptile pants and gem crusted accessories. I salivated watching the video which I’ve included below.  Photos don’t do this collection justice at all. This is my dream collection, something I never thought would happen with the designer Roberto Cavalli

images: style.com

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Gift Cards

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I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Gift Cards

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Gift Cards

It’s that time of year again and I want – I got is putting together massive Gift Guides of things I think would be perfect to give as gifts this season. Gift Cards are a holiday godsend. They are quick, easy and you always know the recipient will enjoy whatever they end up purchasing. I for one don’t think they are lazy gifts, but incredibly thoughtful ones as it puts the power of choice back in the recipient’s hand. Check out these I want – I got approved Gift Cards!

Unisex – These gift cards are perfect for everyone

  • Holt Renfrew – Canada’s top luxury retailer. You can purchase gift cards in store and online.
  • The Bay – So many options here: The Room, Topshop and The White Space. You can purchase gift cards in store and online.
  • Google Play Giftcard – I love apps and I have an addiction to some of those freemium games. A Google Play giftcard would be perfect for enabling my gaming habit. You can purchase gift cards at Shoppers Drug Mart, 7-11, Futureshop, Target and Best Buy.
  • Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie Paris – My favourite spa in the city and who wouldn’t love a gift card to get a Hammam & Gommage service. You can purchase gift cards online or in person. They also have a number of great holiday specials now.
  • Hollow Ground Barber Shop – Take care of someones grooming for the year at my favourite Barber Shop in Toronto. You can purchase gift cards in store.
  • Josephson Opticians – Give the gift of great eyewear at my favourite eyewear haunts. You can purchase gift card in store.
  • Karir Eyewear – Give the gift of great eyewear at my favourite eyewear haunts. You can purchase gift card in store.
  • Spectacle – Give the gift of great eyewear at my favourite eyewear haunts. You can purchase gift card in store.
  • Danier Leather – Leather is always a great gift. You can purchase gift cards in store or online
  • LCBO – Gift the gift of inebriation during the Holidays. You can purchase gift cards in store or online
  • Jonathan + Olivia – Cool clothing, accessories and shoes for both men and women. You can purchase gift cards in store.

Men’s Fashion – Give the man in your life the gift of style from some of this amazing Toronto menswear retailers

  • Sydney’s – Great menswear and a great in-house line, Kin. You can purchase gift cards in store
  • Nomad Gift Card – Love Nomad. When I enter the store I wish I were a man. You can purchase gift cards online or in store
  • Gotstyle – Can’t have a list of Menswear retailers and not include GotStyle. You can purchase gift cards online or in store
  • Haven – I haven’t visited this shop in person yet but I really love the website and the designer they stock. You can purchase gift cards online or in store
  • Uncle Otis – Lots of love here for my Uncle Otis crew. You can purchase gift cards in store

Women’s Fashion – Give the woman in your life the gift of style from some amazing Toronto based and Internet retailers.

  • Sauvage – I always love the selection at Sauvage season after the season. You can purchase gift cards in store
  • Fawn Boutique – My favourite womenswear store in Toronto. You can purchase gift cards in store
  • Rac Boutique – Another very cool retailer in the city. Get your Mara Hoffman here. You can purchase gift cards in store
  • The Outnet – Net-a-Porter’s discount retailer. You can purchase gift cards online
  • NET-A-PORTER. You can purchase virtual or printed gift cards online.
  • eLuxe – My favourite Toronto based womens online retailer. You can purchase gift cards online.
  • Shrimpton Couture Gift Card – Incredible vintage designer finds. You can purchase gift cards online
  • Kavut – Selections from some of the hottest jewellery designers. You can purchase gift cards online
  • Anzie Jewellery – I really partial to the Aztec Collection from Montreal based Jeweler, Anzie. You can purchase gift cards online
  • Shopbop – They recently introduced free shipping and free returns to Canada. Yay, Shopbop
  • Jacob – I’ve talked about my love of Jacob and their great office wear. You can purchase gift cards online or in store.
  • Vocado – Great shop with affordable clothing, accessories and shoes. You can purchase gift cards in store
  • Tiffany’s – Always a safe bet and I love, love, love the Paloma Picasso collection. Gift cards are available in store

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Fashion, Beauty and Jewellery

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It’s that time of year again and I want – I got is putting together massive Gift Guides of things I think would be perfect to give as gifts this season. The fifth edition of the Gift Guides is the one we’ve been waiting for Fashion, Beauty and Jewellery. This is a big one and I could go on for days with selections.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Cabaret Vintage Flapper Dress

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Cabaret Vintage Flapper Dress

Who doesn’t love the 20s? It’s my favourite style era and I love these Vintage Style Flapper Dresses by Cabaret Vintage. They range in price from $195 to 350 and are available online or at the Queen Street location.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Comrags Quartz Border Ed Tunic

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Comrags Quartz Border Ed Tunic

It’s really unfortunate that I don’t own anything by Comrags yet (Note to self, remedy this in 2014). I love the Quartz Border Ed Tunic by Comrags for $335. It’s available online or at their Toronto location.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Philip Sparks Shoes

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Philip Sparks Shoes

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Philip Sparks Shoes

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Philip Sparks Shoes

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Philip Sparks Shoes

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Philip Sparks Shoes

Philip Sparks’s Footwear is amazing. I love every style with the tall boots being my absolute favourite. They range in price from $350 to $495 and are available at the Ossington location or online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Christopher Kane Sweatershirt

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Christopher Kane Sweatershirt

The ultimate sweatshirt is the Christopher Kane Resort 2014 Printed cotton-jersey sweatshirt which retails for $465 at Net-A-Porter. The Room at The Bay also carries Christopher Kane but I’m not sure if this sweater is available there.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Abel Munoz

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Abel Munoz

I finally bought my first pair of Abel Munoz shoes this year. I love Harlow Gold and Black which retails for $495 and is available online. If you are in Toronto you can book and appointment and buy the shoes in person.

SkinnI want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Lazypants

SkinnI want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Lazypants

I’ve purchased sweatpants twice in my life since turning 20. They are just something I don’t wear outside the house. Sometimes, I do need something cute to wear when running to the corner store and the laundry room. I’d be totally happy to receive Green Camo Skinnies from Lazypants are perfect. I love camo print, they are slim fit and they aren’t the traditional grey colour. They retail for $118 and is available online or at TNT.

SkinnI want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Ela

SkinnI want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Ela

I own an Ela Editor’s Pouch in rose gold but it doesn’t have stars. You can get the Ela Large Editor’s Pouch online at eLuxe.ca for $338 or visit a Holt Renfrew location.

SkinnI want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Lancome

SkinnI want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Lancome

It’s not an I want – I got gift guide if I’m not telling you to get some Lancome mascara. The Holiday Makeup Collection by Lancôme contains:
– limited edition Hypnôse Star Étincelle for $33
РHypn̫se Velours Multi-Wear Eyeliner Patches for $28

This ultra-precious kit contains 3 pairs of eyeliner patches which can be reused up to 3 times, to enhance the shape of the eye and stretch out towards the outer corner for an incredible wide-eyed look.

– Vernis in Love nail polish in Étincelle d’Agent, Étincelle de Neige and Lovered for $16 each.
I’m in love with the nail polish this holiday Étincelle de Neige has a really beautiful effect. The holiday collection is available online or at your local Lancome Counter (try The Bay, Sephora or Holt Renfrew).

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Dean Davidson

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Dean Davidson

No words are needed to describe the beauty that is Dean Davidson’s Spectrum Collar for $425. Available online and there is a select of merchandise available at Holt Renfew. It comes in several options for stones (Black Onyx, Lapis, White Topaz) and metal (Rose, Silver, Gold).

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Lancome Show False Lashes

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Lancome Show False Lashes

There are still Hypnôse Show Lashes from Lancôme. Get you hands on these false lashes designed by Alber Elbaz for $35. Available online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Shay Lowe Jewellry Glorious Emerald Statement Necklace

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Shay Lowe Jewellry Glorious Emerald Statement Necklace

Eyecatching statement jewellery is always a great gift and Shay Lowe’s Shay Lowe Jewellery Fall and Holiday Collection definitely fit the bill. I’m quite partial to the Glorious Emerald Statement Necklace which retails for $395 and is available for purchase online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Jenny Bird

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Jenny Bird

Jenny Bird is such a sweet person. I purchased some earrings from her and she gifted me the Long Horn Tusk Earrings which were inspired by the beauty of elephant tusks. They are amazing and come in a Gold version too. $55USD available online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Marni

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Marni

Marni Eau de Parfum is my favourite new perfume of the year. It’s exclusive to Holt Renfrew and retails for $125

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Dermalogica

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Dermalogica

Dermalogica – Stock up on their favourite products or introduce them to new ones with the Holiday Skin Sets. Sets start at $32 and can be purchased online or at a licensed retailer like Concepts.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Pink Tartan

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Pink Tartan


Pink Tartan makes a killer full skirt. I just love the Chrysanthemum Midi Skirt in Black for $325. You can order the skirt online or at the Pink Tartan shop in Yorkville.

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Food and Home

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It’s that time of year again and I want – I got is putting together massive Gift Guides of things I think would be perfect to give as gifts this season. The fourth Gift Guide in the series deals with primary with food and the gifts for the home.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Carnivore Club

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Carnivore Club

Carnivore Club. I have no personal experience with this meat of the month subscription but I’m so intrigued. I’d totally love to receive this as a gift and they do offer gift boxes for special occasions.

Carnivore Club is the exclusive meat of the month club for discerning individuals! Every month members of the Carnivore Club will receive 4 to 6 different selections of unique charcuterie, exotic terrines and artisan crafted jerky’s from around the world.
Carnivore Club specializes in finding you products that cannot be found at your local grocery store or butcher shop. Our partners are all small artisan producers because we believe in the quality and care each partner takes to create their products.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide -Sloan Tea

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide -Sloan Tea

Sloane Fine Tea is so very good and it comes in the most beautiful tins. There are several varieties of tea available and they start at $15. You can buy Sloan Tea online or from a local retailer.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - DavidsTea Mug

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – DavidsTea Mug

Drink Sloane Tea from a DavidsTea Tea Mug. I love these mugs as they make a big mug of tea and include a strainer. The mugs are $19.50 (or 2 for $30 online) and available online or at any DavidsTea location.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Pink Tartan Keurig Designer Cup

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Pink Tartan Keurig Designer Cup

This mug doesn’t have a strainer but the Pink Tartan x Keurig mug is really cute. Kimberley Newport-Mimran created the illustration and 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the mugs goes to Toronto East General Hospital. It’s $19.99 and available online at Keurig.ca.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Sodastream

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Sodastream

My favourite kitchen gadget of last year is the Sodastream. I can’t recommend it enough and it would be an amazing gift. Sodastream systems start at $99 and are available online or at your local Walmart or The Bay.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Torani Syrup

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Torani Syrup

If you are getting someone a Sodastream be sure to get them a gift certificate to BuyCoffeeCanada.com because then they can buy Torani Syrup to make Italian Sodas. I swear by Torani Syrup for my Sodastream.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Cucina Kitchen Trio

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Cucina Kitchen Trio

I’m pretty smitten with the Cucina Kitchen Trio on a slate from Fruits & Passion. I received a package of items from Fruits & Passion and experienced first hand the lovely fragrances from the Cucina collection. How can you resist Rosemary & Cardamom? This gift set includes hand soap, dish soap and hand cream on a slate. Perfect for the kitchen and exactly where I placed mine.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - L'OCCITANE en Provence Shea Embrace

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – L’OCCITANE en Provence Shea Embrace

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - L'OCCITANE en ProvenceThe Secret to Beautiful Hands Collection

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – L’OCCITANE en ProvenceThe Secret to Beautiful Hands Collection

I was finally introduced to L’OCCITANE en Provence this year. It was store that I always passed by but never really entered. I got an education that day on their products. One of their biggest sellers is the amazing Shea Butter hand cream. This holiday season L’OCCITANE en Provence created the The Secret to Beautiful Hands Collection with contains Shea Hand Cream 75ml, Shea Nail & Cuticle Cream 15ml, Shea 1 Minute Hand Scrub 100ml and a Magic Key. The collection comes in ready decorated box and retails for $65. The Shea Embrace Collection is another option. It contains Shea Butter Hand Cream 75ml, Shea Butter Foot Cream 75ml, Shea Ultra Rich Body Cream 200ml, Shea Milk Soap 100g and Shea Ultra Rich Shower Cream 75ml. The Shea Embrace Collection is $85. There are a number of L’OCCITANE stores in the GTA with the closest in Yorkville. L’OCCITANE also has online shopping.

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Gagdets

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It’s that time of year again and I want – I got is putting together massive Gift Guides of things I think would be perfect to give as gifts this season. So the fashion route is out for holiday gifts. I can’t blame people for that, it’s hard to get the right piece. Don’t worry about sizing, colour or style as this third gift guide in the series is all about the gadget.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - HP Photosmart 7250

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – HP Photosmart 7250


My Mom is always asking me to print her photos of my nephew and niece. I didn’t have a proper photo printer until I went to an HP event and got my hands on the HP Photosmart 7520 e-All-in-One Printer. It’s wireless which is such an important part to my home network as I’m trying to get rid of excess cables. I can print photos from my smartphone using HP software or Google’s Cloud Print. Some other great features include a touch screen, duplex printing, Internet access, scanning, copying and faxing. The Photosmart 7520 will automatically print a selection of NYTimes stories on Sunday morning if you want it to. The HP Photosmart 7520 e-All-in-One Printer is on sale for $109.99 right now at HP.com.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Surface 2

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Surface 2


So, this summer I got an intimate look at Microsoft Windows 8 and the Surface. Suffice to say, it made me happy as a Windows girl. It only makes sense that I’d put the new Surface 2 in my gift guide. Improvements to the Surface include faster processor, dual-position kickstand, thinner, lighter, increased battery life, Full HD display, better front and rear facing cameras, faster usb ports, backlit Touch and Type covers. Microsoft Office, Skype and Skydrive accounts are also included. The Surface 2 starts at $449.00 and Surface 2 Pro at $899.00 on microsoftstore.com.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - HTC One

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – HTC One


I finally ditched the Blackberry + iPhone smartphone combination I was doing this year. I contemplated getting another Blackberry because I knew there was no way I was going to make the iPhone my primary device. I had a real love hate relationship with it. Once it was clear that Blackberry wasn’t going to make another full sized keyboard based phone I decided it was time to ditch the company and go Android. HTC’s PR company send me an HTC One to review for a month. It was love at first sight. Anyone who saw me that month can attest that all I talked about was this damn phone. Recommending it to everyone. I loved the phone so much, I went out and bought one the day before I returned the review device. To understand the importance of this decision you have to understand that I haven’t paid for a smartphone in a number of years (thanks to the blog). I felt so strongly about the HTC One that I went out and spent my hard earned money on it. I don’t regret it for a second. It’s the best phone I’ve ever owned and the best smartphone camera I’ve ever used. Check out my Instagram to see what’s it’s capable of. Telus, Bell, Rogers and Virgin Mobile all stock the HTC One but it retails without a plan for about $650.00.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Samsung Galaxy Note 3

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Samsung Galaxy Note 3


I was very lucky to be one of the few people that was gifted the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 + Gear. If I wasn’t such a huge HTC One fan, the Note 3 would be my primary smartphone. The size of the Galaxy Note is one of it’s strengths and one of it’s major weaknesses for me. It’s just too big for my hands to use as an everyday device. I do lot of one handed manipulation of my smartphone and I’m not ready to give that up. I never realized how much I miss a stylus until I got my hands on the Galaxy Note. I’m really impressed with the handwriting recognition and it’s damn cool to write longhand on a device and have it converted. The old person in me loves this because sometimes thoughts come out better with a pen in hand. The Note 3 isn’t my primary phone but it’s come to replace my Kobo arc as my tablet. I love playing Tiny Death Star and Restaurant Story on it and Instagram is so incredible. The Samsung Galaxy Gear is Samsung’s push into wearable computing. The Gear is too big for my wrist so I never really used it. It’s a bit of a toy to me but would be a perfect gift for the tech nerd who wants to be the first to try all the new stuff. The Galaxy Note 3 is available at all major telecoms and it retails for about $750. The Samsung Galaxy Gear retails for about $329.99.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Kobo Arch 7HD

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Kobo Arch 7HD


I still a fan Kobo devices. I like the Kobo Arc because it runs Android and it’s in colour. With a colour ereader I felt comfortable ordering digital magazine subscriptions from Zinio and purchasing books with photos and illustrations from Kobo..The Kobo Arc has been upgraded this year to include HD resolution, faster processor and improved camera. Kobo Arc 7HD starts at $199.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Jiffy Steamer J-2000

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Jiffy Steamer J-2000


I’ve struggled for a number of years with commercial grade steamers. They’d last a year or two then break. I swore the next steamer I bought would be profession grade. I polled my stylist contacts and was told Jiffy is the steamer to beat. I tracked down a Jiffy J-2000 steamer on Kijiji and I couldn’t be happier. I was lucky to find a used one but I would have paid full price for it. WM Prager sells Jiffy J2 steamer and it retails for $295.00.