Laura's 3 Shop Faves

I love blog posts like this because they give me a reason to walk around the store and examine all our lovely items. We have been getting in a lot of new pieces lately, here are my three favourite at the moment.

Feather earrings are HUGE right now. They are definitely the trend of the summer, and since we try to stay on top of those, we just got a bunch of really nice ones in. Our feather earrings come in all different colours so you can go bold with pink or be subtle with grey. There aren’t any rules on how to wear these so some are choosing to wear a pair and others are wearing just one. It is really up to you what you think looks best. We took this into consideration and are selling our earrings as $12 each or a pair for $20. Some our fave celebs rock them too. 

A couple years ago I made an imprint of a leaf on some silver to turn into a necklace. I thought I had done a pretty good job of capturing all the veins, until I saw a pair of earrings we recently got in. These earrings capture all the intricate veins on the back of a leaf and the detail is just amazing! It was love at first site with these and I am very tempted to snatch them up for myself. They are $24 and if you are interested, I suggest you act fast before I decided to get them for myself.

A bonus is that they are also super shiny and while making some new dare to compares earlier, I stumbled across these similar leaf earrings by Silver Rush that are $208.50, so the price is right too.

 

When I was checking out all our new merchandise, this necklace stood out to me the most. With rows of peach, purple, and pink beads on a gold chain, the combination of these colours is what drew me to this necklace. It is girly, fun, and cute without being over the top, and the colour combination is just perfect for summer.

It is a little bit of a blessing and a curse working at I Heart Accessories. I get to be surrounded by beautiful things all the time and I can’t complain about that aspect. The only downfall is the temptation. I often find myself wanting to buy things every time we get new products; this post is a perfect example of that. Come on in and check out our new jewellery, taking advantage of the 20% off summer deal. If you are having trouble deciding, feel free to ask me anytime what my current favourites are, because I can guarantee I will have some. 

xoxo

With Heart, 

Laura

Lazy Updates

Shame on me for being the laziest blogger ever to blog. I do apologize for not giving you any updates on my petite boutique and all it's greatness in the last little while.

Here are some updates:

In Toronto, it rained all of April. This, you know. But did you know that we carry Fulton Umbrellas, and they are the coolest? They have definitely been a favourite at the shop as of late.

Look how much these people like theirs!

And why wouldn't they be ecstatic? Fulton Umbrellas are from the UK, where it rains the most ever. So you KNOW they're fab. They are built with wind resistant frames...so there aint no flyin' up and out with these babies. The best part? They hold a Royal Warrant, to Her Majesty The Queen, and previously to Her Majesty The Queen Mother. This is serious business.

Speaking of The Queen, her darling grandson was married this past month! If you acquaint yourself with such folk who attended/hosted High Tea, you may have adorned your pretty head with one of these beauties...

...and If you haven't already worn one, now you have an excuse to do so at your next shindig. If princess Beatrice can do it, you can too.

Another main event this past week was a day dedicated to the strongest people on the planet, Mothers. Happy Belated Mother's Day to all the ladies who have given life to another. You are all incredible...and if you received some accessories from us, know that they were wrapped in our gift bags with love.

So have we been busy? Yes, we have been. Between Spring Fever, Mom Love and a new hire (yes, a NEW HIRE! - Her name's Laura, you'll meet her soon), it's been a jam-packed few weeks. Stay tuned for fab new arrivals in the next couple of weeks. Keep it real.

XOXO

With heart,

Natalie

Art Is Where The Heart Is

I consider myself an artist. Not in the typical way you would envision an artist - i.e. a painter with her palette... But I do consider what I do to be art. I create, I love what I create, and put that creation out into the world so others can love it too.

I recently read the book Linchpin by Seth Godin, which was gracefully gifted to me by my good friend, Sally - an artist in every sense of the word.  The book describes a way of life/work that encourages you to be the best you can be at whatever it is that you're doing, and to do so by making that work art, and showing the world how well you do your art. I'm not trying to sell you on this book, but it is worth a read if you're stuck between doing what you love, and doing what you feel you have to do in life.

That being said...one of the things I love about my business (and I've written about this before), is being able to help other artists, get their art out into the world. Although I Heart Accessories is still a tiny little baby girl, she's still very much in love with those who create, and does her best to promote those creations. We have loved selling local work, of all different types and styles, and want to do so even more as we grow. It helps those who create, and brings fresh new vibes to our shop each time a new piece is dropped off.  Here are some of the pieces that been created by some of our favourite artists, and give our shop that extra unique feel.

Headmistress

Quoise Jewellery

Sidelines Jewellery

All local, all beautiful. 

Here's where I'm going with this. If you're an artist, and you've recently decided to put your art into practice, and that practice has anything to do with adorning accessories, you should let us know. Granted, a fit between your work and our shop is necessary, but we'de love to hear from you. Along with a few other steps forward for I Heart Accessories this year, generating greater relationships with artists is primo on the list.

xoxo
With Heart,
Natalie

Your Piece

I can't believe January has (thank the universe) slipped by so quickly and left me with only 1 written blog post.  For those of you who follow and read...my mushy brain apologizes.  I have felt like a crusty bear in hibernation for the last 30 days...and who can blame me with the painful weather that has been bestowed upon us?   I digress. I'm here, I'm alive, and the worst is behind us. Who's ready for Spring-a-ling-a-ling?

I have been inspired by a dear friend to write this post. Natalie (we are same-namers) came in a few days ago with her pal Jen, and perused all of our new lovelies. She picked up a bracelet that I absolutely knew was her style. A beaded wrap bracelet in espresso, that she could effortlessly pull off as a daily piece.

When she picked it up...I instantly said "That's so you!".  I should point out that although my job is to sell the items in my shop, I never do it with lines like "That's so you", or any other line for that matter...I'm less of a line girl and much more of a "if you're feelin' it, you should totally get it and make yourself happy" kinda girl.  When she decided to make that baby hers, I mentioned a new book, which absolutely absorbed me on my last visit to Indigo. As one of two comfy chairs and myself became one, I licked my lips with each new page of "You Know You Want it: Style-Inspiration-Confidence" by Eric Daman.

Daman is the costume stylist for the television show Gossip Girl, and although the show's premise is less than interesting to me, the outfits keep me watching when I "accidentally" stumble upon it.

 In the book, Daman discusses the idea of having "your piece". One of his simple fashion rules is that every girl (and guy, for that matter) needs a piece to call their own. A Carrie necklace, Audrey pearls or a Natalie wrap bracelet. Your piece is your piece...and although it won't define who you are, something unique may symbolize your personality...and I adore the idea. Daman's piece? Meaningful charms that hang on gold and silver chains around his neck. My piece? I seem to wear this little gal quite often...

  A piece created and customized by my good friend Dawn from iWEAR.

What's your piece?


xoxo
With Heart,
Natalie

Looking Forward

As I enjoyed a couple of days off from the shop while ringing in 2011, the business brain in me couldn't help but think about what this new year will bring to I Heart Accessories. 2010 was good to us...and since things can only get better, better than good is undoubtedly in the forecast.

With a new season just around the corner, we've already got our eyes and hearts set on some brilliant new pieces, thus, I thought I would post about things to look forward to in the next few months at the shop, and get you just as excited as I am.  With a dash of I Heart flare, this season's trends are looking pretty fabuloso if I do say so myself. 

Bridal

This year, we are putting a little more focus on brides and providing some trendy, inexpensive options for accessorizing both the belle of the ball, and her lovely ladies.  The 2011 bride is all about feathers, flowers and crystal...three things we all adore.

Coming soon (among many), The Gardenia Fascinator by Headmistress, $75

Colour

This is one thing I personally look forward to every Spring! We didn't hesitate to paint our shelves with deep colours for Fall/Winter, and this season, we'll do the same with spring hues. Although things will be brightening up, trends are leaning towards paler shades of orange, hunter greens and grayish blues.

 Cuff, $24

 Necklace & Earrings, $29

Glass stoned cuff, $29

Key Pieces

With clothing moving towards very flowy, longer pieces, i.e. the maxi dress shown below...accessories are definitely the ones that are taking shape this season. 

Bags are looking more structured in 2011 along with my fave trend for spring, the belt purse. 

Tassels are huge for spring, on clothing and with jewelry, in fabric and metal.

The turban is taking center stage this spring.  Shown above, one from the new Headmistress 2011 Spring Collection. 

 Lastly, our 4th season carrying Lindsay Phillips will start with this new cutie-patutie! Lot's more colours and styles to come along with it.

Of course, the shop will also be bursting with new hats, shades, and jewels...but I couldn't help but share the joy with some pieces that will be totally new for us this Spring. I Can't wait for new arrivals! Seriously. I'm shakin' in my boots!

To stay updated on what comes in, and when, join us on facebook! We can't wait to accessorize you this Spring!

xoxo

With Heart, 

Natalie

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

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