Are You Dopamine Dressing?

A few years ago I stumbled upon this amazing article on Dopamine dressing.  But it wasn’t until recently that I was reminded of it after seeing two Instagram bloggers I follow (@alwaysafashionparade and @girlwithbellsandwhistles ) bring up this topic.

So here I am wanting to share this with you ladies as well!  Basically, dopamine dressing or styling is all about how clothes make you feel- and in this case- mostly in a happy way.  There’s a lot of research on how wearing color can boost your mood and why it is that we choose certain colors over others.

In the case of dopamine dressing, it’s all about how good, lucky, hopeful (you get the gist) you feel when you wear a certain outfit (hence the superstitious wear of the lucky this-or that).  But there’s clear evidence that the clothes you wear can have a certain effect on your mood.  I wouldn’t limit this happy feeling to only wearing colorful clothing though…as some of us can be flying high just by wearing black!

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So it’s really about yourself and the importance you place on particular pieces from your closet.  In fact, it may also be the reaction you get from others when seeing you dressed in a certain attire.  Take for instance some feisty logo on a tee you love to wear…when you’re walking around you don’t necessarily focus on that logo, right? But it can be the smile that lights up the person who crosses your path that has you smiling right back at them.  And, there’s nothing like a smile to change your mood.

Which leads me to asking; who doesn’t want a feel good hormone in their life?  If it’s as easy as just getting dressed up for happiness, then why not give this a try?  Take a good look at what’s in your closet- guaranteed you’ll find special moment outfits (good or bad); lucky sweaters; first date shoes; promotion dress…

Lastly, when you’re out shopping, let this be a new determining factor for purchase.  Ask yourself not only how good you look in it- but also, how does it make you feel? Do you feel comfortable?  Does it make you feel glamorous, artistic, young (fill in the blanks for what you aspire)…and ultimately- does it make you feel happy?

Sometimes it’s good not to over-analyze and just go with the feel.  It may probably turn out that these are the pieces that will live the longest in your closet (and in your life!).

#Confessionoftheday: Was my all-time dreary mood all of January’s fault?  Come to think of it…I did very little dopamine dressing.  Hmm, time to change things up for February!

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For more outfit ideas and inspiration, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @lucybertoldi

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How to Wear Your Vintage Hats

Hats give the special finishing touch to outerwear.  But I’m talking especially about the vintage ones living somewhere in our closet.  Do you have a favorite hat that you swear next winter you’ll wear for sure…and then you never do?

There’s a good chance that something’s holding you back. There was a time when hats were de rigueur…now, unless it’s on the Runway, we often feel reluctant. Maybe there’s the glamour aspect that makes it feel like it’s a bit too much- it feels too elegant.

For me, it’s always been a question of practicality.  Like if I’m gonna wear a hat, it better keep me warm, and, it better look good.  And then there’s the whole fur ordeal and my new outlook on this (I’ll never buy real fur again).  But what do you do with all the fur vintage hats you have stashed in your closet?

Mine have real sentimental value, since they mostly all belonged to my mom, grandmother, or another close relative.  I don’t want to throw them out…So I do want to wear them- if only for the ode of respect for the animal as well as the environment (don’t want them in a landfill).  So now that I’ve made my peace with that, what do you do when because of the fashion back in the day, these hats are not in the least bit practical?  Meaning, yes, they’re made to keep you warm; yet they don’t even cover your ears?!

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If you’re one of those ladies who’s bought a few winter hats because of how cute they are- but can’t figure out how to wear them with purpose…Then, take a look at my video clip for some practical styling tips.  Try these out and see if you can revamp those beauties you’ve got hidden in some pretty hat box at the far end of your closet.  And…do let me know- send me a pic- I love seeing women styling hats!

Watch my Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErCxVULXYzU

#confessionoftheday: I secretly long for those days when, as a little girl, my mom used to take me to Eaton’s (remember that department store in the 60’s- 70’s?)- all the customers were elegantly dressed.  The women wore fancy hats, gloves and marvelous coats. Shopping was a chic and very big ordeal (well at least that’s what I thought!)  I used to love taking the elevator just because it was operated by the ladies in uniform.  Do you guys remember that?  I guess that’s wear my love of hats…and styling of course, began.

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Why (not ‘What’) Are You Wearing…?

Doors are symbolic to me.  Whether it’s in real life or in dreams, I always get some sort of message or feeling when I see doors.  I took this photo several weeks ago and yet it only speaks to me today.  New beginnings, new things, are coming my way.  Like we’ve heard before; when one door closes- another one opens.

So today, this is still a styling post, but with much more meaning to it.  I’m to let what has passed, be at rest and in peace…and look ahead to what more, life has to offer.  I’m to not look behind in grief, but rather be graciously thankful for that past that is now allowing me to go forward.

I wasn’t thinking such thoughts when I took this picture; it’s only now that I was browsing through which pics to post, that it spoke to me this way.  Grieving is a personal process, but when you feel you get a strong message that you alone can interpret, then it’s something real that you can’t just set aside.

My message came in strong for me and I just love the way this pic has such a ready-to-go feel.  It’s a happy and ready photo.  Styling is a passion and so is fashion- but it is way for me.  There’s always something behind what you choose to wear and what pics you choose to post.  I really believe styling up is a creative outlet and a form of expression.

Today I encourage you to look back at some of your photos and see what you can read from them just by how you styled up your outfit- or where the pic was taken.  Everything is pre-conceived; even when you just throw on ‘any old thing’.  It has meaning- and basically, by wearing; you’re expressing.

Which outfit styling photos of yours speak out to you?

#confessionoftheday: My dad (95), who recently passed away during the holidays this year, would not want me to put my life on hold.  He would want me to move forward and lunge…after all, it’s from him that I’ve inherited my strong will and perseverance.  Thanks Papa.

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I support sustainable fashion and wearing and re-styling what’s already in your closet;  Thrifted vintage Givenchy.

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Revamp Your Blouse Styling

Blouses will always be in- they’re a staple in our wardrobe.  And although it seems like we either wear the same ones over and over again, we always need a new fresh blouse.  I challenge you to revisit your closet and pull out those lonely ones that you no longer feel like wearing and just restyle them to revamp them!

Sometimes it’s just a matter of styling them differently.  Wearing them tucked in;  backwards (yes it’s possible!); tied up with a knot; worn as a cover up…and numerous other creative ways.  Maybe you’ll start loving the old as new again- it’s worth giving it a try before you bid them farewell.

Here are some tips I have for you in this video clip:

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Fall Trends…You probably Already Own!

Seriously ladies, fall is fabulous for fashion. But that doesn’t mean you have to go all out every single season. You may already have all these gems in your closet.

Fall collection: Gabriele Colangelo

I’ve been scouring the runways looking at trends and favourites for this season- and from there decided to scope out my own closet. I found just what I needed!

First things first; Camel color is back! Yes ladies, designers have brought this neutral back and I’m so happy for that. Almost every designer has this color in their fall collection. The only one who stayed true to black and white this season was Balmain (but their styles are always to die for- no matter what color; so they get a pass).

What else did I find? Let me list these for you:

Square-toe boots

Leather

Long prairie dresses

Velvet in rich colors

Slip dresses- especially skirts

Small handbags (Yup…time to stash away the big bags)

These are just a few!

To see more, why don’t you check out my styling video here: CLICK

to see what I found in my closet.

Hint hint…

How are you fun styling your Autumn?

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Facials: Montreal’s Best Kept Secret…

When it comes to facials, there’s a place where detailed focus, undivided attention and pampering are a priority- and that’s in Montreal…actually, in Laval, Montreal’s close neighbour- at Jenny Bart’s. Today, I was privileged to receive this fabulous service! I was also lucky to get an appointment, because this girl is booked solid- always.

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What makes Jenny’s place so special? Well first of all, her clientele is based mostly on referrals. And, according to most…She really is Montreal’s best kept secret (Ahem, Laval). Her clients come from far and wide knowing that she does not have a ‘one-size- fits- all’, facial routine. She is a true expert. Facials are done according to skin analysis and specific needs. It’s a tailor-made program and treatments are done according to your skin’s needs, health and lifestyle.

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What could be better than a warmed mattress right by a cozy fire, in a freshly scented aromatherapy room?

Jenny is extremely well versed and knowledgeable on all things derma-related, and also takes a particular interest and focus on anti-aging. All this makes her not only extremely interesting to me- but also my go-to source on newest technology and on what works and what doesn’t. For me, at this point, I really want to focus on reversing and slowing the signs of aging, while prolonging my skin’s health.

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This is what I call total relaxation…

Unlike many other professionals who tell you to chuck what you have and buy what’s in their line instead, Jenny advised me on the important agents to look for in my own skin care products. I really appreciated that. Nobody wants to hear they need to throw out every cream they own (for some of us that can be anywhere over $200 a pop- yikes!) This is something I can really appreciate- honesty from an Esthetician.

Jenny does not sell her own line- instead, she tells you which products out there will make a remarkable difference on your skin- and that, is based on an individual analysis. She is also straightforward when revealing your skin’s status and the creams you are already using. So what about My reveal? Apart from sun damage (I’m a sucker for Floridian and Greek beaches, what can I say?), my skin is apparently very well maintained and it shows that I take good care of it! (So happy about that, cause I really do!).

I left my Esthetician with a world of knowledge along with a list of ingredients I should read up on; and of course what I should get for my skin. Surprisingly…none of it will kill my budget. No nonsense advice that I can live with!

Here’s what I got done today:

-Double Cleanse

-Followed by a light chemical peel

-Skin analysis

-Treatment: Light therapy and Toning Therapy

-Anti-Aging Mask

-Face Massage

All this followed by: Serums, Moisturizer and SPF

While relaxing, I also got a hand and forearm massage.

Oh, and did I mention how good my skin feels? It also looks amazing! All I needed today after my facial (because I never leave home without a full face of makeup)- was only a touch of powder, mascara, liner and gloss. I look and feel refreshed and, is it my imagination… or are those darn ‘eleven’s starting to shy away? Booking my next appointment!

That’s that my Darlings! Feeling totally zen.

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Jenny’s Instagram Feed:  @jennybart

#confessionoftheday: Indulgence in taking care of my skin is not a privilege- it’s a necessity!

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Let Mother’s Day Sparkle and Dazzle!

Do you love glitter and all that shines? Then I wish you could have joined me at the Katherine Karambelas sample sale that took place a few weeks ago! The place shone with the most precious sparkling temptations!

I can’t begin to tell you how crazy I am about this line of exquisite semi-precious jewelry. Every piece is a true work of art- seriously. The jewelry is created using precious and semi-precious stones and metals, as well as, Swarovski crystals.  The epitome of chic, and, all meticulously hand-made.  Incredibly fashionable and suitable for women of all ages and styles, well-priced and original…the Katherine Karambelas line is perfect for us, Darlings:)

There’s much that I admire and adore about this brand. Besides, beauty, quality, originality, and authenticity, for me, the fact that Katherine, a Montreal designer of Greek origin, works alongside her three daughters, heading, creating and developing a business for women, by women- is a true heartwarming inspiration. A wonderful mother and daughters’ story…

I can’t fathom anything more appropriate for Mother’s Day! Thinking of offering something splendid for this wonderful day?

So…Without further ado, let me whet your appetite- drum roll please!

Here I am with two of the beautiful and talented Karambelas sisters: Nektaria and Faith.

A little bubbly and more sparkles…

Here’s one of the pieces I purchased.

This is what it looks like on me..

And I just couldn’t resist this piece!!

And one more! Haven’t worn this one yet but with the warm sunny weather ahead- and vacation time; I can see myself wearing this one all summer long.

So these were my beautiful purchases!

And just when I thought I’d had my heart’s content…earlier this week I was surprised with this arrival in the mail! Thank you so much Katherine Karambelas. I’m a true KKit Girl now!

Magical!

Katherine Karambelas also takes special orders to create unique pieces for clients. Here are two necklaces in Swarovski created just for me. I wear these all the time, dressed up or casual…

And this one in darker stones…

 

Mother’s Day is almost here! Check out Katherine Karambelas’ splendid creations here at:

katherinekarambelas.com

Instagram @katherinekarambelas

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When Looks Can be Deceiving…

Pick the right outfit, take some photos; edit, crop, delete or switch around-, write a post, share on all your social platforms, inspire and set a trend! Repeat.

For me this is always a fun and easy process, as I love: writing; fashion; trend setting and inspiring. But I also am very intent on always being genuine when I post. I like relevancy and good dose of honesty. Which brings me to the photos I decided to post this Monday afternoon…

These photos were supposed to post last Thursday evening- time appropriate for my preparations for Greek Orthodox Easter. Lots of happiness, calmness and a look of peaceful ease on my face. That’s exactly how I felt on Thursday- but for some reason I ran out of time to post.

And then, on the following day, Montreal was on flood alert!

Right upto Thursday we were doing fine…but come Friday morning, all hell broke loose. My entire family and I spent the next 3 days bagging and placing sandbags around our property. Neighbours also pitched in, as did the police and firefighters. We worked knee-high in water, around the clock up until Sunday afternoon.

I believe in kindness and of giving of oneself to help others- but what I witnessed went beyond. It was cold, raining, but no one stopped. Drenched in two feet of water- everyone diligently built those walls- helping to keep my house safe and dry. Neighbors offered extra pumps, tape, snowblowers..you name it. Anything to get the job done and get that horrific water from destroying it all.

The waters finally tamed on Sunday evening…and all is stable so far. That’s how we spent Easter weekend.

But! No water came in. We are not flooded. The situation is stable. We are Thankful.

 

Why am I telling you all this? Well it occurred to me that when I would be ready to post my fashion photo today, it also needed to be genuine. I feel very relieved today and also extremely thankful that the water has calmed down, that I have a wonderful family, fantastic neighbors, a city that responded, that my family and I are safe.

There. Now I can post these photos the way they were meant to be posted: I am happy, serene, thankful, and blessed.

My look is not deceiving…I am genuine- the way I always want to come through. Today is the right day to post. Hoping your weekend was a blessed one xx.

#Confessionoftheday: Breathe. All is well:)

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Italian Sunday Meal: No Fuss Lasagna

Who are we kidding- when is lasagna, no fuss?

And then, yet…if you prepare some of it in advance, there’s hope!  For instance, your sauce need not be prepared the day of.  Prepare it up to a few days before.

Cheese?  Grate that mozzarella the night before (or better yet, buy the pre-grated in-a-bag-mozzarella).  Same goes for the actual pasta used; you can buy the oven-ready kind.  It’s just as good.  All I do is pass it under hot water and then place directly in pan over first layer of sauce. Easy peasy.

As for the beschamel…well, that one you gotta do on the spot.  Unless you can prep this too the night before?  Never tried it- but if you have, let me know.

Note: For Beschamel sauce: melt about 2 tbsp of butter and 2 tbsp of flour on low heat. Gradually pour in milk. Stir on low to med heat until thickens. Pour as much milk as needed until you get the right consistency.

Alternate layers between beschamel and sauce.

All that’s left to do is put it in the oven for about 45 minutes covered at 200 c. Then uncover for another 15 minutes of cooking. Et voila!  Serve with a side dish of cauliflower and another of coleslaw.  Simple!

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And there you have it:  No-fuss Lasagna.  Enjoy!

 

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