Happy New Year!

WOWZA! It's been a busy month. And I can't believe it's already come and gone! Well, almost.

There's still one sparkly event left to go before we say "buh-bye" to 2010...and if you need some little lovelies to compliment your NYE outfit...look no further. Not to mention, there is 25% off EVERYTHING in the store right now. I know. Life couldn't GET any better!

 

  

Photography by our friends The Stiletto Twins!

Thanks to you, our faithful fans, friends, bloggers, and customers, we've had a great year!

If you feel a bit out of touch, we'de love for you to get a little closer to us!  Here are some ways:

 Follow us on facebook!

Join our E-mailing List!

 Follow us on Twitter!

So if we don't see you before then, HAPPY NEW YEAR! We hope you party like Madonna!

xoxo

With Heart, 

Natalie

Last Minute Glitz

So you've been guilted into a last minute holiday mixer that your best gal pal can't go to alone.   If you're like me, by the third week in December, there is no more dolla bills left for presents for myself. New outfits will have to wait until the deals come out of hiding and on to the racks in January.  Alas, the number one reason why I heart accessories. Take a simple outfit out of your closet, add some out of the ordinary accessories to change up the way you would usually wear it...and go to your mixer stylishly less broke. Sound good?

Here are some accessories that are sure to add a pop to any outfit you currently own.  Slip these babies on, and no one will even notice you've worn the same thing twice.

xoxo
With Heart,
Natalie

Toronto Life!

Best thing about this week? Being featured in Toronto Life without us even knowing! Pick up a January 2011 Issue of Toronto Life's Where to Get Good Stuff Cheap guide, and check out our featured items for under $10! YAY Surprise Press!

 

xoxo

With Heart, 

Natalie

The Gift of Shopping

Gift Cards + Shopping + Accessories = Happiness.

 

Gift Cards are available at I Heart Accessories.

Holiday Gift Ideas for under $29

There are 32 days left until Christmas. 32 DAYS! When did this happen? It was only yesterday that we were painting the walls in here, and now we're in the midst of our second holiday season.  As fast as that came, so will C-Day, and we've got some great gift ideas for all the ladies on your list. Bonus? They're $29 or less.  The best part? We'll gift wrap it for free. Thank us when you see us. We like lattes. 

The Classy Lady

These gorgeous, locally-made creations from Headmistress Accessories are magical in every which way. Adorned with hand-dyed feathers and vintage buttons, this pin screams (or should I say whispers) Lady-like. $20

 

Crystals and pearls fall so elegantly on this necklace. Perfect for day with a pretty silk blouse, or with a cocktail dress for holiday celebrations.  $27.

Our assortment of leather gloves is sprinkled with different trims, colours and adornments.  Any lady who's a lady needs a pair of these. $29

The Girly Girl

The pretty sparkle in the center of these gorgeous little flowers adds femininity to any gal's accessory collection. Triple Flower Ring, $24

 

Girly-girls need warmth too. Frilly Scarf, $26

 

These charming pieces from Canadian-made Foxy Originals tie the knot on girly-ness. $20.

The Sporty Gal

Skiing and Snowboarding is way cooler with accessories. This pom pom hat will keep her warm and in style while she's zooming down those slopes. $24.

 

Layered in multiples, or just on their own, these adorable watches from Plasti-chic are water (and snow) resistant.  $25.

 

Sporty gals like their fingers covered when they want them covered. At other times, texting and unlocking bikes are best done with the flaps off. These perfectly practical gloves are just $22.

The Cutie Pattutie

Alright, so what about our little cuties? These adorable necklaces sit sweetly in their own velvety cupcake box for just $19.

And while you're in the mood for sweet treats, our Satin Sugar All Purpose Treatment Balm from Cake Beauty is a favourite during the winter months. This magical balm un-chaps everything from your lips to your hair to your heals to your elbows. $24.

 

Available in so many colours and patterns, these ear muffs serve the cute-and-cozy purpose. Just $22. 

Hopefully we've soothed some brain-wracking for you. If not, we're always happy to help with the toughest of accessory dilemmas. With tons of gifts and stocking stuffers for everyone from your sister, to your mama, to your Secret Santa you barely know, I Heart Accessories is here for you this Holiday Season. 

Also, we play great tunes. 

xoxo

With Heart, 

Natalie

Birthday Week Love

Every year, I have a birthday week. There's a friend party, a boyfriend party, and a family party. And then of course there are dinners and coffee dates with friends here and there.  Before you know it, a week has gone by and I'm feelin' good about the extra year.  This year, my store stole my thunder in celebrating her first birthday, however, it was with extreme pleasure that I handed it over. The gal's been good to me.

We started off I Heart's birthday week with a fab 3-day sale of Buy 1 Get 1 50% off.  Hats and scarves were flying out of here like nobody's business, and with our already amazing prices, lovelies had the chance to stock up for prezzies and stocking stuffers.

Later on in the week, we had a date with Shop Socials for our 1st birthday party. Maggie, our most favourite personal baker from Lovin' from the Oven, supplied us with deliciously pink and white cupcakes (dusted with real gold flakes), and guests shopped with a whopping 25% off everything in the store and free gifties.

Above, two of our happy shoppers. The expressions on their faces says it all. Am I right?

A great time including good deals were had by all, especially me. The $5 martinis only had a *little* to do with it. 

Big hugs and kisses go out to Tamika from Shop Socials for throwing us such a great bash, and bringing her group of gals to celebrate with us. We also heart bloggers Laura from For Those about to Shop, and Natasa from The Stiletto Twins, for coming out and covering the event.  And of course, a big smooch to Baily and Graham from Snap North Toronto.  We can always count on them to snap some pics and let the world know we exist!

Those who attended: thank you for taking part in our first year and for all of your love and support.  I truly am so grateful for the people that walk through that door each and every day. We wouldn't have been able to make it here without you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

xoxo
With Heart,
Natalie

Accessatree

I Heart Accessories loves Christmas.

Socialite Perks for Everyday Gals

Happy November Lovelies! Tis the season to get your shop on.  Ready for this? there are only 54 days left until the big day!  I KNOW!

This is going up tomorrow!

If you're reading this, you probably enjoy shopping. If you enjoy shopping, you most likely love when you find something fab for a fraction of the regular price. Regardless, I love having gorgeous items as much as I love to sell them, and what's not to love about paying less for more?  So, when I came across Shop Socials, I was instantly drawn to this brilliant concept combining all the things I love.  With just the right touch of fun, fashion, beauty, and discounts, founder of this amazing company, Tamika Auwai, organizes fabulous gatherings for women.  Tamika has made it a point to collaborate with independently owned Toronto boutiques, spotlighting hidden gems and designers that often go unseen. Also, martinis are usually involved.  Just sayin.

Showing off their goods below, some lovely socialites who attended our last event in May. 

Uppin' the anti of your discount socialite shopping is Shop Socials first born: The Socialite Card. Not necessary to attend events, but TOTALLY worth getting, this card grants you continuous discounts at boutiques in the Toronto area, private invites, free swag...ah...the list goes on.

Lastly, the newest service being offered by Shop Socials is their Girls Night In packages. With all of her amazing connections, Tamika brings a personalized boutique to your home (including I Heart Accessories goodies), providing you and your gal pals with the best in shopping in the comfort of your own home.  Have a few friends with little ones on the way? A pop-up including maternity wear is at your place in no time. Seriously...she's that amazing.
 

With our first Shop Socials event being a smashing success, we decided to ask them to help us out with our first birthday bash. If you're sentimental and wish to call us on the day, it's the 14th of November, however if you're like me, and just wanna come, enjoy a bevy and a cupcake (which will be generously made by our friends Lovin' From the Oven), Thursday the 18th is when it's all happening. Major discounts, free gifts and goodies galore are to be had, not to mention, shopping like a socialite at an invite only event.

So if shopping like a socialite is something you could get used to, I urge you to check out the Shop Socials website, and/or their facebook page for constant updates on new events.

If you've never been to I Heart Accessories, we'de love to see you at our birthday party, and trust us, you won't regret coming after shopping with 25% off everything in the store!

See ya then Sugar Plums.

xoxo

With Heart,
Natalie

Mad about HUE

Last night, I finally caught up on Mad Men. I won't go into details about my secret love for Don Draper, or my envy for all of the outfits that constantly make me wish I was my current age, back then (fashion reasons only).  I won't spoil any of the juicy parts if you haven't seen it yet, however, the episode did have my mind wander into the world of fashion...as many things do when you've built your business around that world.  Peggy works on a hosiery account that is afraid to promote the fact that their products are "the only a pair you'll ever need".  After all, they have to rely on volume in order to survive, as most businesses do. I found it interesting how in the past women have looked at hosiery as something they NEED. A necessity in a shopping basket along with maxi pads and toothpaste.

We've come a long way with legwear. So much so, that now we call it legwear. Options have moved from neutral, sheer or opaque to a multitude of colours, textures and patterns.  More than ever before, hosiery is something I WANT to wear, and I also want my pick. So, while other accessories have always served the purpose to embellish and just be there and be pretty, legwear has gone from a "need" to a very fashionable "want".

Here are three legwear trends I'm loving right now.

Textured Opaque Tights

 A nice twist to the regular opaque tight...and with grey being the perfect neutral, these should be a staple in every gals legwear collection. Pick these HUE tights up in our boutique for $16.

Lace Tights

Worried your dress may not be fancy enough for that special occasion? Turn it into a completely new look with a pair of these. They're fancy, girly, and flirty. Embrace lace! $15.

Cable Knit Leggings

Cozify your legs with these puppies! Pair these with some cute boots and an over-sized cardigan for a casual cool look. Available in black and charcoal, HUE Cable Knit Leggings - $45.

Not only does the HUE brand offer fun and fashionable hosiery, but ask anyone who's ever worn them, and they will rave about the comfort. A tough reputation to uphold when dealing with the dreaded "pantyhose". From day basics to fancy floral, we've got your legs covered in comfortable, gorgeous HUE at I Heart Accessories.  Come in for a peak!

 

xoxo

With Heart, 

Natalie

Gettin' Cozy With It

We gots cozy stuffs! I was like a little girl at Christmas when we received our shipment of winter lovelies the other day!  I know, winter sucks the bag...but it doesn't have to suck as much when you look cute as a button...now does it?

So my excitement lead me to do something very vain...don't judge, it was pouring buckets outside and a quiet day in the boutique.  Besides, we've all done a photo shoot of ourselves before. Haven't we...?

My favourite piece by far, our new knit headbands!  Available in an assortment colours and styles, they start at $12.

 Please. Would you just look at these? Please. I am in love with them. Everything about them. White, soft, fur. Three things I love...and well worth it for $19 - $22.

 Alright, now for the hats.  I tried every single one on and took a picture of all of them...but I thought I would NOT smother you with more "me" than I need to. These are my two faves. Above: Call it a Tam, a Beenie or a Winter Hat...I don't care, just call it. You can't resist at $22.

Below: This plaid aviator is the ultimate in warmth. This is your cargo pant with a casual boot hat. $26

Circle scarves make me happy...especially in an assortment of colours, styles and knits! $24 - $26.

Need a little less me and a little more accessory?  I'm offended....but more pics of our new arrivals can be found on our facebook page. Also, if you join, there's a 15% discount in it for you. Always and forever.

xoxo

With Heart,

Natalie

This Time it's Personal

October 1st, a time for reflection. 

It's been a busy few weeks at the boutique, and in life in general.  There have been some quiet days (as there are in all businesses), but those days have been spent making new connections, rearranging, filling orders and doing a general tidy-up of the boutique. Things can get pretty cluttered really quickly here...and setting everything straight always feels so much better!

It's really hard to believe how far I have come in such a short time. I will soon be hitting my one year mark at the shop complete with a party hosted by Shop Socials!  I am SO looking forward to inviting all of my pals - old and new - who have been so supportive in my little endeavor.  Really, if it weren't for the amazing people I have met along the way...I can't imagine where I'de be.

Last week I had an amazing email from my friend Erin, who talked about how incredibly happy she was for me and all that I have accomplished with my business!  It's difficult for me to toot my own horn, as I always think there is so much more I could be doing. Sometimes, you think you're the only one who notices the things you have accomplished, so reading her email brightened my entire week.

I've also been thinking about my repeat customers lately.  There are a lot of familiar faces who walk through my door everyday and every time I see one of those faces, I get a warm and fuzzy feeling.  Many have mentioned that they skipped the big conglomerates who carry the same items, so that they could support I Heart Accessories!  Really...? Could I be any more fortunate?

Sometimes I just need to step out of my life, realize all the awesomness that surrounds me and soak it all in. If you are reading this, thank you. Know that you are appreciated. 

xoxo
With Heart,

Natalie

Eye for an I Heart

I traveled to Turkey in 2004 and of course, visited the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul while I was there. Aside from the knock-off perfumes, watches and the yelling salesmen, there is a certain type of mysterious allure in the Bazaar, which I personally think rings true throughout most middle eastern countries and culture.  While walking through with my traveling buddies, I was instantly drawn to the numerous jewelry merchants and was dead set on leaving with at least one awesome piece of jewelry.  Being away for two months, one piece was really all I had room for. Admittedly, I did leave with more than just one. As well as some scarves. And tea. Also spices.

One thing that did stand out for me at the time was the abundance of eyeballs staring at me. Not just by other people either. As every culture in the world has their own superstitions and good luck charms, the Turkish (along with many other Middle Eastern people) use the evil eye as a symbol to ward off evil. 

I have to admit, I wasn't instantly drawn to the look of these beads 6 years ago, but now, I'm seeing them everywhere and they have become the universal symbol for "evil eye".  Combined with the "Hamsa" (a similar token used in Judaism), accessory lovers are hyped over this new spiritual/good karma/superstitious trend!

Kim Kardashian is sporting her Evil Eyes...

And of course, my fave gal Madonna wearing her hamsa bling...

So as I am kicking myself for not picking up some genuine evil eyes while I was in Turkey...6 years later, I find myself carrying the trend in my very own boutique.

These cool little bracelets start at $14. 

If you ask me, we could all use a little more good karma. Why not attract it with some cute and trendy wrist decor?

xoxo
With Heart,

Natalie