Le Caniche Noir's Blog

Just read an article on Elle.com saying that the average American throws out about 70 pounds of clothing a year, with obvious economic and environmental repercussions. I mean, that's like 4 billion pounds of waste a year just from thrown out clothes? This, combined with the plastic we throw out from cosmetics products, aerosol sprays, jetting around every weekend....erm, fashion is turning out to be quite a stress on the environment. 

Dear Diary,

I'm so obsessed with SHU UEMURA Essence Absolue oil. Soaking my beautiful fake hair in it...no better way to start the day. Well, of course, nothing is better than morning sex.

Thank u Geishas for inspiring SHU to make this product.

XOXO,

LCN

picture courtesy of ShuUemura.ca.

Buy it here: http://www.shuuemura.ca/product/ESSENCE-ABSOLUE,default,pd.html#start=4&cgid=haircare-collections-artofoils

We are completely obsessed with....ALDO shoes! 

Always on trend, good quality and reasonable pricing, its the perfect place to get your fix of the season's footwear and accessory trends. We always love to style our clothes with ALDO shoes. Here are some styles we are currently obsessing about (and have in our closet):

 Kunai

Lucyna 

Canada

Baraby

Discover and shop all their spring styles on http://www.aldoshoes.com/ca-eng

XOXO!

(pictures courtesy of ALDO shoes)

We all know that finding the perfect red lipstick is a major life milestone. It seems that I found it. I've had it for a long time, and started wearing it recently. I noticed I was getting lots of complements and people asking which brand/shade it was...then noticed lots of red lips popping up around the office.

It's from one of my favorite brands, Bourjois. I've loved this brand before it was even available in Canada, I remember stumbling upon this FABULOUS gloss at an airport in Europe almost 10 years ago. The shade i'm talking about is #56 in the Sweet Kiss line. Its a 'true red' color. The best part - it lasts and it lasts and it lasts, without drying out the lips. I apply it on in the morning, have coffee, go to meetings...and at 6 pm its still there! And not just in the dried up ridges on the lips...no, its there and looks even an beautiful! I have dry lips, so usually all 'long wear' lipsticks tend to dry up my lips. This particular one does not, most likely due to the Argan Oil, the super special nature derived cosmetics ingredient that keeps things moist and juicy.

LOVE IT!

Thanks Bourjois!!!!!!!

Check out more of their products at www.bourjois.ca

XOXO,

LeCanicheNoir

Image courtesy of Bourjois.ca

TOTALLY OBSESSED with the Swarovski Crystalline martini glasses. Some serious alcoholic swag. 

Grab them here: www.swarovski.com 

XOXO

image courtesy of Swarovski

Spring is almost here!!!! Nothing better to get us through these last, desperate winter days than looking at S/S fashion. Here is a sneak peek collage of our favorite S/S items on LeCanicheNoir.com! Follow us on Facebook to get all the updates!

1. Beautiful beading - Orient influence - patterns, textures and cuts

2. Garden Party! Beautiful, colourful flower fabrics 

3. Ruffles! Love love ruffles!

4. Statement accessories...MEOW!!!

5. COAT CHECK! Runway inspired spring outerwear

Come back for more! Our items are hand picked and imported from Europe and in limited quantities. Follow us on Facebook to get the latest updates!

Facebook.com/LeCanicheNoir 

XOXO!

Your cosmetics products should be replaced after some time. After being open and exposed to the environment, they can grow bacteria, EWWW! Especially jar creams where you have to stick your fingers to scoop out the product. How do you know when to throw away? Easy! Did you ever notice the little symbol on the back, a little jar with an open lid + a number next to it? This tells you how many months after opening you should chuck the product. In the picture below, its 36 months after opening it. Go through your makeup case now! 

Come back to our blog for more life altering facts! ;)

Aqua Di Lara S/S 2012; Connect with them on Facebook! 

Pool party season is on the horizon!

Now, we all know that pool parties are not about swimming, but instead about looking GORGEOUS by the pool. It’s about pairing your hot swimsuit with wild 5 inch heels. Then, spending a couple of hours with various hair machinery and chemicals in order to achieve that ‘natural, undone, sun-stroked, sea salt’ messy beach look. Let’s not forget the statement jewelry (that would pose a serious hazard if actually worn in nature).  Finally, you are ready to pose sexily with your champagne flute, trying to stay as far as possible from the pool water as it may wash off some of your body makeup…I mean natural sun-kissed glow. If you are reading this and thinking “I’m just there to splash around and do laps in the pool” please stop reading immediately!  And unlike our FB page.

Good. You are still with me. 

If you love glamour, drama, and are not afraid to be the center of attention…you must check out Aqua Di Lara swimwear!  I had the privilege of checking out their 2012 collection a few weeks ago….and let’s just say it was the best motivation I’ve ever had to start that diet I’ve been putting off. WOW! If you don’t believe me, believe Tyra Banks. She just chose the 2012 collection to be worn on Germany’s Next Top Model. 

Aqua Di Lara’s Creative Director Reyhan Sofraci’s collection has seen widespread adoption among music artists, celebrities, and trendsetters, including Ivanka Trump and Tyra Banks. The line continues to be featured in high-end fashion and luxury publications and garners strong international following.  

One small detail: you are NOT in the running to become Canada’s next top model.  No worries! “Women are all beautiful in all shapes and sizes, just do and wear what works and feels good for you!”  Says Reyhan.  How inspiring! We love u Reyhan. But i'm still going on that diet ;). Today, we have the privilege of getting advice on how to pick the right bathing suit for each body shape type from the Aqua queen herself!

Here is Reyhan's expert advice on how to maximize your beach/pool/yacht look:

1. “Hourglass” shaped body

“You lucky woman you!! This is what we strive to achieve with all bathing suit designs.  It is the ideal figure that has been celebrated over the ages.  Pretty much anything can go for you!” says Reyhan.

In this body type, the chest and hips are the same size (the chest can be slightly larger). The waist is at least 9 inches smaller than the chest and hips. Don’t mistake this shape for women with large chests and hips – this is about chest to waist to hips proportions, not size. You can be a cup A and still have an hourglass shaped body.

“Our best seller Diamante would just look stunning on this body type as well as many others” recommends Reyhan.

Shown above: Diamante style from Aqua Di Lara's S/S 2012 collection

Click on image to see more from Aqua Di Lara! 

2. “Ruler” or “rectangle” shaped body

This body type is the opposite of the ‘hourglass’ shape above. This body shape’s chest, waist and hips are almost similar in size.

“This is also referred to as the sporty body-type – still beautiful!” says Reyhan. “Here you can create the illusion of a narrower waist.  This can be achieved in many ways.   Lines on a suit can really alter one’s perception of the body.  Not just print but the actual seams of the bathing suit, the curves, the cutouts can create a slimming illusion in parts you want to minimize and parts you want to maximize.  With Aqua Di Lara, we always work on achieving the hourglass figure with line and curve placement.”

For this body shape, Reyhan recommends the Padma style, as it has the perfect balance. It narrows the waste with the eloquent net details and the lines emphasize the chest and subtly draw the eye out for the hips creating a curvaceous look.

Shown above: Padma style from Aqua Di Lara's S/S 2012 collection

Click on image to see more from Aqua Di Lara! 

3. “Pear” shaped body

This body type’s hips are proportionately larger than the breasts.

“We're a women and we have hips, that's a good thing!” says Reyhan. The rule is pretty simple: “Small prints tend to minimize and large prints tend to maximize.  So in a bikini, bottoms in small prints and tops in big prints work best.  In a one-piece it really is about the placement of the print on the body that determines whether the look works.   Also, light colors maximize and dark colors minimize.  So, you can wear a bright colored top and dark bottom to create a visual balance.”

“Myrica and Faia would be great here.  This top is actually great for small or big chested women as it provides support and can minimize big and maximize small breasts with the draping.  The skirt will also trim down the hips making the body look longer instead of wide”

Shown above: Myrica and Faia style from Aqua Di Lara's S/S 2012 collection

Click on image to see more from Aqua Di Lara! 

4. “Cone” shaped body

This body shape’s chest is proportionately larger than the hips. The waist is similarly sized to the hips.

“You already have the assets, it’s better to try and achieve a better balance.” advises Reyhan.  “Halters, under wire styles and triangles with strong lining can provide the lift and support that is required for bigger cup sizes.  Aqua Di Lara bathing suits are known for that, as they really provide that extra support and lift that most larger chested women (c's and d's) appreciate.  It’s good to have lift but do not go overboard.  Class is number one!” Seriously girls. Let’s keep it classy!

For this body type, Reyhan suggests the Hestia style, because the halter top provides the support on top and the lines going down the waist create hips forming the balance.

Shown above: Hestia style from Aqua Di Lara's S/S 2012 collection

Click on image to see more from Aqua Di Lara! 

I think it’s safe to say you’ve seen the hottest swimwear in ur life. And you are totally joining me on that diet. Now…If you can handle even more attention on yourself…we move on to the accessories.

“We live in a time where wearing dresses and skirts and pants over our swimwear is a form of accessorizing” Reyhan points out.  “They are no longer called 'coverups' but a flattering item of clothing that accentuates your look.  If you want that extra boost of confidence or just want to shine, don't hesitate to grab the new luxurious options out there and show it off.  We love our new Reya and Irina styles.  The silk feels so soft and luxurious on the skin and the way it lightly flows in the soft summer breeze feels fantastic.” True story ladies. I couldn’t stop touching them.

Shown above: Irina and Reya styles from Aqua Di Lara's S/S 2012 collection

Click on image to see more from Aqua Di Lara! 

So are you ready to take the quiz now? Reyhan’s cheat sheet:

“Dark colors tend to create a slimming silhouette and can be very flattering on almost everyone.  Lines elongate. Big prints emphasize, small prints minimize.  Light colors enhance, dark colors minimize. It is always important to wear a suit that fits you well and suits your body type.  It should sit comfortably on your body and highlight your greatest assets.  Something that looks good on someone else may not necessarily look good on you.”

The most important advice (THAT WE LOOOVED):”Don't buy it if you do not feel like a million bucks and comfortable in it!  Color should complement you, not take away from you. Find what works for you and 'work it'.  If you 'feel' good, people will notice.;)”

You can also connect with them on Facebook! 

Thanks Reyhan for taking the time to give us your advice! Ladies – Enjoy!

Aqua Di Lara — by award-winning designer, Reyhan Sofraci — is a high-end swimwear label based in Montreal, Canada. The line has garnered attention and worldwide-acclaim from fashionistas and beach lovers all over the globe. Quality and style are Aqua Di Lara’s mantra, and the company produces its swimsuits in Canada from rich and luxurious fabrics imported from Europe. Aqua Di Lara has been featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Harpers Bazaar, Elle, Canada’s Next Top Model, America’s Next Top Model, Ocean Drive, Zink, FQ, and many other fashion magazines and shows.

Aqua Di Lara’s 2012 collection is available in Canada, the US, Europe and various online retailers around the globe. For more information, please visit aquadilara.com.

You are all partied out, all traveled out, it's dark and crappy outside (not to mention cold). Thank God we have fashion to console us.  Sweater dresses are totally your BFF right now. 

They keep you warm all over.  They are so comfortable and versatile - they can be paired with leggings, jeans, boots or pumps.  You can easily layer and accessorize ur look.  And let's be honest - they are PERFECT for hiding the extra weight you've put on over the holidays.  Sexy sweater dresses are a total winter staple. They are like a fashionable caccoon shell before you burst out into your bikini body in a few months.

Top up with a stylish parka, and you are ready to hit the -29 degrees. (okay, maybe not mentally).

Enter the code BFF to get 10% off your sweater dress or parka purchase.  Valid until the end of this week only!

XOXO,

Dilara

My Thai massage had just finished.  Super relaxed, I got off the bed and looked in the mirror...to my surprise my facial skin was so even-toned and bright looking! Okay, what's going on? I don't remember putting makeup on? Naturally I have blotchyness around my eyes, pigmentation spots, and redness around my laugh lines and nose.  All this makes my complexion look tired and dull.  Then it struck me...I used some concealer earlier...and this amazing concealer actually survivied the rough, hot, oily Thai massage! OMG! I've been addicted to this concealer for a while, but after I witnessed it stay in place after a Thai massage...I decided it was time to share it with the world.

I'm talking about Benefit brand BOING Industrial Strength conealer.  I first heard about it from my friend Masa.  She was always so ahead of time when it came to make up.  I remember in middle school when I was still discovering Cover Girl all-in-one foundations at the "Merkez Sultan" lol (for those of you that don't know, it's a supermarket chain in Kuwait), she was all specialty stores and Lancome and Definicils.  I gotta say the girl knows her stuff.  Not that she needs it, she has one of the most beautiful complexions I've seen. Thanks Masa, BOING totally changed my life!!!

http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/boi-ing

I love this concealer for so many reasons.

First, it applies on smoothly, and doesn't cake or cause crease lines around the eyes.  The coverage is amazing. It can get rid of anything: blotchyness, pigmentation spots, redness.  Also great to make harsh lines less harsh by helping bounce more light off them.  I have very harsh laugh lines (thanks, Dad's genes), and dabbing on some of this magic paste on the lines makes them a lot softer. Blendability too! Most of the time I just wear the concealer by itself around the eyes, laugh lines and nose base.  It transforms my look drastically, I've often gotten complements about how even my skin is (HA-HA!).  And the few people I've told about it are now also addicted to it!

The best part of it is that it stays and it stays and it stays -through partying, hot weather, massages, sweating...unbelievable.

In Canada you can buy it at the Benefit counter in select department stores, or at very select Shoppers Drug Mart / Pharmaprix beauty boutiques.  It costs around $19. After you discover your shade, you can buy it online @ the Benefit Cosmetics web site.

Tons of other fun products!

XOXO,
Dilara

Everyone is talking about Roxanne! 

We had the privilege of working with the talented Roxanne in our fall/winter campaign.   Her stunning, down to earth and playful personality was a perfect fit to ShopDilara.  With such a great attitude, smarts, and head turning looks, she is definitely on her way to wear her own pair of angel wings on the Victoria's Secret runway. Not only that, but she is determined to make a positive impact on others - both with her intentions for the future and with the responsible advice she gives to those that aspire to her.

We sat down with Roxanne to ask her about the secrets to her fabulousness: 

Dilara: How did you end up becoming a model?

Roxanne: The thought of modelling was always in the back of my mind, but the industry is tricky and picky so I just let it go. But one day, to my surprise, I received a message on Facebook from a scout at Dulcedo and he was really interested in my look. So it all started from there.

Dilara: What do you like most about it?

Roxanne: My favourite part of modelling is becoming an integral part of a new world of cutting edge art and ethereal beauty.

Dilara: So now u have to tell us what we all want to know....HOW do you stay in such great shape???

Roxanne: The key to staying in top shape is the way you approach the idea of exercising and eating. It's mind over matter! I have to love what I'm doing; otherwise I’ll lose interest. For instance, I go to the gym with a friend, it's fun but I still exercise and time goes by so fast! Diet wise, you have to click a switch in your mind towards healthy eating and you will soon find out that moderation tastes way better ;)

Dilara: How about your skin? How does it stay so perfect?

Roxanne: About my skin, genes are part of it, but some key hygiene steps can make a big difference. For example, I take off my makeup every night and use sunscreen in the summer to still get a nice tan but protect my skin. (See that ppl? If you don't want to listen to me, listen to Roxanne! Cancel that tanning bed appt and put on SPF!)

Dilara: If you were stranded on an island and had a choice to get one thing from home...what would it be?

Roxanne: Models are usually confident with who they are and what they look like, so we embrace it and party a lot ;)!

Dilara: Which ShopDilara dresses would you wear to a party?

Roxanne: Girls, keep some sexy curves! A perfect balance between skinny and voluptuous does exist. Find it for yourself and I guarantee you'll be the very pleased with the way you look!

You can view Roxanne's modelling portfolio @ DulcedoModels:

Hair and makeup was done by Evangelina Pavlakos

XOXO,

Dilara

So how to avoid such social self destructions???  THERE is an APP FOR THAT! 

My favorite is called SOCIAL INTERLOCK.  This app allows you to "lock" access to your choice of social networks (includes FB and Twitter) before going drinking.  You set for how long.  If you try to access Facebook, for example, it will make you take a sobriety test by testing your motor skills before allowing you to get into the app.  If you fail the test, no posting sexy pics for you!!!

Below are some screen shots of the app:

Single block color capes were a major runway trend this season. After being accessorized with some bad-ass leather gloves, they were quickly loved by stylists everywhere and appeared in our favorite TV Shows. Here is a quick look at the favorite styles that made their way on ShopDilara:

Blair Wool Cape

Black Riding Cape

Caniche Noire Wool Cape

Serena Vintage Wool Coat with Cape

XOXO,

Dilara

Trend of the moment: mixing leather & knits.

Here is how to get the look:

Chunky Knits white sweater - $79

Faux Leather Leggings - $29

Distressed Sweater - $119

Gray Sweater Dress - $69

Rock Princess Studded Jacket - $199 

Enter the code

KNITS at checkout to receive $10 off all knits

LEATHER at checkout to receive $20 off leather jackets

XOXO,

Dilara

Brrrrrrrrrr!!!

Come on, and u don't? How else would you get rid of dead skin cells and have the softest, smoothest skin, naturally?  With rough exfoliation, of course.

Earlier I wrote a blog about self tanning, and I told you how exfoliating prior to applying a self tanner was 50% of the job.  Exfoliation is important, always...on all parts of the body, even the face.

The outer most layer of your skin is dead skin cells. These need to be shed so that the new, soft cells are exposed. Some individuals shed dead skin cells at a slower rate than others, and when you don't shed them as fast as you should...you get scaly, rough skin. Also, hair follicles can get trapped from going out and create ingrowns.  Even worse...that can get inflamed and then you have a pimple situation. Eww.

So recently I discovered the mother of all exfoliating tools...I LOVE IT.  It's the Cactus Brush from the Body Shop...rightfully called so, I have to say! It feels very rough on the skin...but the benefits are totally worth it.

Not only does it do a great job at exfoliating but, because its so rough, it increases circulation. And you know what that's good for, right? KILLING CELLULITE!  Massage your legs with the brush in circular motion, and use it every other day or so.

Aftewards, your legs will feel sooooo soft and you will feel the blood flowing, killing that cellulite!

It's not really meant for the face, the Renaissance glove is more appropriate for that.

To take care of it, make sure to clean it afterwards and hang to dry. Don't immerse it in water or leave with product on.  You can buy it at Body Shop stores or online:

Enjoy!

XOXO,

Dilara

Pictures copyright of the Body Shop.

Hello!

One of the reasons I created ShopDilara was to make it super easy for everyone to go from crappy to starlet...in just seconds.  ShopDilara is about bringing the glamour of the runways, red carpet, and upper east side to your life...with just a click! We do the work so u can be fab. And if anything, I hope to make your boring office hours more interesting ;).  Yes, its a proven fact that most ppl shop online while at work.  Okay, I may be contributing to 50% of that statistic. Anyways...

We all love it when we are all polished up and taken care of.  Personally, given my busy schedule and the fact that I pretty much live out of a suitcase, I can't spend as much time as I would like to at the spa. And I REFUSE TO BE UGLY!!!  So i'm always on a mission to find the best solution with the least drama. I did that even before ShopDilara for fun - so why not share it with you so you can just be fab without the drama.

Today I want to share with you how to get glamorous, sleek, silky straight hair...from towel dried to shiny straight in just minutes. Yes, you read correctly...skip blow drying and go from crappy to straight and shiny in minutes.....it's probably the greatest discovery I made in a while.

The secret? My FHI flat iron! My hairdresser at Pure Salon in Montreal, who has been the trusted guardian of my long blonde mane for over 7 years now, told me how she recently switched and loves it...so I had to try.

It was a particularly BLAH Sunday, I had just lost my iPhone. Then I looked over and I saw my newly purchased FHI iron sitting on the table, still in its box. Instantly, there was a spark of excitement as I ran to it, looking forward to testing it out and discovering new hair tricks.  Don't you always feel so much better when ur hair is sexy? Doing my hair is amongst my top anti-BLAH therapies.

I held the box in my hands and started reading the back...20 times more negative ions than competitors...And infra red heat...Not that I understood what any of that means (I even called my engineer fiancee to explain lol) but oh, could my Sunday get any better? And then I came across something even more invigorating.  The iron can be used on DAMP HAIR! You mean skip the blow dryer??? OMG!!!

So last night I washed my hair and went straight to bed.  When I woke up this morning my hair was a damp disaster. And no, not out of bed sexy hair. Just a disaster. I plugged in my FHI and within seconds it heated up to 210 degrees C. I naturally have a lot of hair, plus 5 packs of 20 inch long hair extensions that tend to get coarse over time (what? u thought it was real??? Rapunzel only exists in fairy tales).  Despite having 10 times the hair an average person has, all I did was divide my hair into 3 layers and ran the iron through each layer while using a thin tooth comb to help hold the hair strands straight. OH LA LA! In 20 mintues my hair went from damp, wavy and coarse to straight, silky and full of movement! Unbelievable. This tool truly changed my life.

I used the highest heat setting because I have hair extensions. If you have natural, delicate hair, don't use the highest heat setting. Also, if your hair is very curly, the damp to straight thing may not work, or you may have to do it in thinner layers (instead of just doing 3 layers like I did).

For optimal finishing results, apply the Shu Uemura oil at the end. I'm addicted to it.

Are you ready for more??? The iron comes in more than one type, with different plates: a regular, 1 inch flat iron...and then this thinner version with a round plate and hair teeth on the other side (shown above). If you have to pick you should definitely get the round one.  It does the job of both straightening, curling, or just creating awesome looking flipped ends which add volume. You wrap the hair around the rounded plate/teeth to either flip or curl. OMG!!!

Don't ever think that the flat irons u buy at the drug store or even the department store are like the professional ones...like with professional hair care, you really get what you paid for. I've tried them all. The results between a professional iron and the mass ones are just incomparable, plus the pro ones are much better for your hair. If you can afford it, the $200 will definitely be well spent, plus it will last you for years. And remember, nice things are only sold at nice hair salons...so buy it there!

Join my movement and refuse to be ugly.

XOXO,

Dilara

This fall we had the priviledge of having one of Canada's premier makeup artists, Evangelia Pavlakos, on set with us. Besides being super fab and fun to work with, the makeup was just...GORGEOUS! We asked her to share her expertise with us, so you can complement your new runway inspired wardrobe with runway makeup looks! This fall, its all about wearing the liner across your lid!

ShopDilara Fall/Winter 2011 makeup looks by Eva! Gorgeous!

Dilara: What is your favorite make-up trend this Fall?
Eva: The hot make-up trend this fall and my fave trend all year long has to be black liquid liner across the lid. Whether you have brown or blue eyes, it always sets a statement.
For a day look, I would suggest applying the liquid liner across your natural lashline and if black is too dark for you, opt for colors such as brown or plum.
For a night look, go all out and make the line thicker towards the end of the eye and extend it out to achieve a cat eye. This will definitely have some heads turn.

Liquid liner is not always easy to apply; I agree that it does take practise and a steady hand but here are a few tricks that can help you get the hang of it:

Step 1: Make sure to have a base applied all over your eyelid. A base can be a neutral eyeshadow, a primer or a bit of foundation applied before all other eyeshadow colors. What this will do is help have a smooth and oil-free surface for the liner.

Step 2: In front of a mirror, make sure to have your head tilted back a bit to have a better view of your lashline and if necessary, rest your elbow on the mirror; this will enable you to have that steady hand for application.

Step 3: An easy way to make sure you succeed in making that luscious line is to take the liner and make small dots near your lasline and across the lid. That way, when you are ready to make that line, all you have to do is connect the dots.
An alternative to this is to draw a line with a sharpened eye pencil first and then have the liner drawn above it.

Step 4: for a felined look: Once your liner is drawn across your natural lash line, reapply some extra liner toward the outer edges of your eye for a more dramatic look and also extend the line further out and upward. This will give the illusion of the cat eye as well as make your eyes seem bigger.

My suggestions of products for this look: any liquid liner with a hard tip for beginners. Hard tips enable better precision and an easier application. Once you become more comfortable in executing this look, you may opt for liners with a soft tip. I have been doing make-up for years and still prefer a hard tip.

If liquid liner is not for you, a great product that achieves the same look with a softer, silkier feel is MAC's Fluidline. This product is a gel-based formula that comes in a pot and is applied with an angled brush.

Dilara: What are the hot colors for lips?
Eva: Another Fall make-up trend that goes great with your lined eyes is light pink, luscious lips. The glossier, the better! Try L'Oreal's Colour Riche lipstick line and if you want to add extra shine, add on a gloss on top such as MAC's Lustreglass in Luminous.
If pink is not for you, try a neutral lip color such as MAC's lipstick in Twig which is a brownish, pink tone and top it off with a neutral gloss like Rimmel's Stay Glossy lipgloss in Here to Stay.

Remember, when you go strong on the eyes with a liquid liner, let your eyes do the talking and stay softer on the lips and cheeks.

Dilara: What is your favorite ShopDilara piece from this fall's shoot?

Eva: There are so many wonderful products to choose from but if I had to pick an outfit, it would have to be Faux Leather Leggins just because I love leggins and I would top it off with the Caniche Noir Blue Cape. As Fall approaches, this Cape is a perfect Autumn statement; it is versatile, comfortable and very fashionable. It is definitely an item that can be worn with different outfits over and over again.

About Eva:
Ever since Eva bought her first eye-shadow at the age of 13, she’s never been able to put down a brush. What started as a fascination, quickly developed into a real passion. Having picked up the tricks of the trade from industry professionals and benefitting from an eye for color and trends, Eva is always on the lookout for new products and techniques.
To her, make up is like a second skin.
For info and bookings, visit her web site:
www.evangeliapavlakos.com

Have fun!
XOXO,

Dilara & Eva

This video describes EXACTLY how I get my car from the garage every morning.  HAHA. Just like this, except I still have sleep wrinkles on my face, barely drag my feet, and still have my hair up in the bun from last night. There are some elements of truth to it: I always have to search for my keys, have to roll into the garage door like in the video (because I lost the clicker and the neighbor just opened it). I also hug my car like that but mainly because I am happy to find it in the huge lot since I never remember where I parked it.  So there are true parts to this story :P.

I arrived to Germany just as Mercedes Benz fashion week was unfolding, and saw this video.  The model looks super hot and she is Canadian.  As a big promoter of the Candian fashion industry and everything Canadian, I thought we should take a moment to be proud of our Jessica Stam. Those of you that know me presonally know that I've always been more of an ultimate driving machine fan...but I have to say the concept A class, not bad!

More importantly, we all need to know how to look just like her without the crew of 150 hair dressers and stylists...because you don't want to be caught looking bad when going down to the garage. So here is some advice from beauty and style experts:

HAIR:

Beach messy hair is one of my fav looks. Always! And its easier to do than u think! My awesome hairdresser Christina from Pure Salon in Montreal gave me advice on how to make your own 'beach hair spray':

1. Buy a small plastic spray container from Shoppers Drug Mart / Pharmaprix.

2. Fill it up with water. Then add a few tablespoons of SEA salt (make sure its SEA salt), a dash of hair oil (like the Shu Uemura oil I told you about before, it smells SUPER nice.).  You have to add oil to counter the drying effect of the salt but also to add gloss. Remember to shake the bottle so everything inside mixes up.  Do it each time you use it.  I would mix a new solution each time u plan to fake the beach look.

3. Lean forward and flip your hair upside down.  Spray the solution all over until your hair is damp and scrunch.  If your hair is straight, you may have to put it up in two buns until its dry to help with creating the waves.

4. TA DAAAA!!!!! u look and smell like u just came home from the beach.  It feels sexy and awesome!!!

MAKEUP:

Makeup expert Ally Zwonok, president and founder of Alter Ego Cosmetics, shares tips on how to re-create the look in the video:

1.Prep the skin with Alter Ego's face PRIMER (this will minimise winkles and the appearance of large pores!)

2. Apply a light FOUNDATION with a sponge for an even base

3. Set with a DUAL POWDER using a larch powder brush (a Sponge will make it look cakey!)

4. Dust on PIXIE blush onto the apples of the cheeks (use a medium size brush to avoid a "blush line"!)

5. Take a blue shade like SWANK cream eye shimmer, and sweep it across the entire eyelid.

6. Blend with BLUEMOON to the outer corner creating a sideways V

7.Extend the V with BLACKSTAR to create a dramatic Smokey Eye and continue underneath for extra drama!

8. A BLACK KHOL liner is the used to rim the eyes

9. Finish off with the eyes with MASCARA and DEMI LASHES

10. Finally, STREETSMART lipstick to complete Terry’s fashion week look!

You can check these proudcts out on the Alter Ego web site, www.AlterEgoCosmetics.com  Ally and her makeup line are behind many of the ShopDilara makeup looks.

DRESS:

Check out the Sienna bandage black cocktail dress on the right.  Scandalous and perfect for when you plan to go fetch your Benz down from the garage in S3.

CAR:

While the B class never grew on me (how could they put the Mercedes logo on that!!), this A class looks nice.  I especially like the interface. Check out this video from Mercedes Benz TV for more. No introduction date for Canada has been set yet.

Have fun!

XOXO,
Dilara

Follow us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShopDilara

LOL!

The BLING RING? How did I not know about this back in 09 when it happened? Apparently a group of well-to-do kids decided to form a gang and raid celebrity closets just for their clothes. Over a span of several months, they raided Paris Hilton, Rachel Bilson, Mariah Carey, etc. I guess my fiance did everything to hide the news from me in fear that I would turn gangster and join.

And he did good-I would have totally applied for membership. However, I think I would have raided different celebrity closets...of course Kardashians would be #1 on my list! Here is what I would totally steal.  And perhaps have to alter around the bum to fit me.

1. Kim's lime green Birkin! YEEESS!! Would look great next to my pink one.

2. Kourtney's blue tassel Louboutins.  Wait, actually I'd snatch the whole outfit. Wish I could steal that tan as well!

3. Kim's studded Louboutin booties.  No no i'm putting those back, I already have them. AND LOVE THEM!

4. Kim's bachelorette dress! I WANT want want! We are super inspired! Team Dilara - to the drawing boards!

5. Kim's wedding gear? hmmm maybe not....

Whose closet would u raid? What is one celebrity item u crave? On the right are ShopDilara items that were inspired by Kim's style.

XOXO

Dilara

Hello,

I wanted to take a few minutes to share a very serious matter with you, because it can potentially save your life: The importance of getting a regular mammography. Don't think you are too old, if you have a history u can even start in ur 20's.  I'm NOT kidding. Yes as early as that, especially if u have a history.

Just two months ago, one of the persons I love most was diagnosed with breast cancer.  Luckily, it was not even stage 1, but a tiny carcinogenic lump.  It was removed quickly and safely and that was the end of that.

It happened and passed without me even knowing (I learned about it later, when it was over), nevertheless I was still quite upset, especially at the thought of what could have happened. The C word is SO scary. After allowing myself to mope around about it for a bit, it's very important for me to use my experience for some good by telling you (you may already know this) what saved the life of my loved one.

The reason this potentially disastrous situation was avoided...REGULAR MAMMOGRAPHY EXAMS. It was caught very small and very early without having spread to the tissue around it, and that was the reason it passed.  Let's take a moment to think about it: the difference between lots of suffering, pain and don't even want to think what else OR avoiding all this--going to the doctor for regular check ups.  In Canada (although u have to wait) we have free healthcare and we all have access to it, don't be stupid and not do it. 

Ask your doctor when to start, how often to go, and what to get done.

I know exactly why you won't do it: you are busy and already have too many things to do. It seems to me it's become very complicated to be healthy these days.  Everything is a carcinogen, there are a million things u need to do, a million medical checkups, million ways to 'eat healthy'....on top of it all, ur iPhone is ringing with a million notifications about ur overlapping meetings, the trainer waiting at the gym, attempts to have regular manicures, the poodle needs grooming, the accountant is confused as to why you spend so much money on fake hair and how this is a 'business expense'....AH!  I am probably the pioneer of this with my iPhone having at least 50 little red dot notifications at any time. So where to start, what to prioritize?

It's very simple. I once went to a fancy corporate training called "7 habits of highly effective people" by Franklin Covey.  Like in most long presentations my creative ADD took over and instead of listening I was completely distracted by the giant gold square ring the presenter was wearing. I'm not kidding it was GIANT. I spent a good part of the lecture creating and elaborating a story about how his cult controls him by beaming thoughts into that giant ring and how if I tackled him and removed the ring he would come back. However one thing did stick with me, and has really had a big impact on my life ever since. The principle is called "Do the big rocks FIRST".  I was able to find a video of it on Youtube, take 5 mins to watch it, it will have a big impact on ur life.  Also it will be a delicious retro dose, complete with the 80's power shoulder red suit. Notice how she paired it up with a plaid skirt. DE-LICIOUS 80's. I think I only paid attention to it due to my retro loving, but it actually turned out to be cool:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wu5Dn4uCau8

So, what you have to do is define what your big rocks are, and what's sand. If you want to read more, look up Franklin Covey. As a very spiritual person I normally find those things are for losers but his stuff is pretty cool.

Lots of people always ask me where I find the time to do everything that I do - prioritizing in this way has been a big part of it...but really it's my super supportive fiance that picks up all my crap haha ;).

My next checkup is already booked despite the milliion little red dots on each productivity app on my iPhone!  Please book yours too.  Be nice to yourself and loved ones and spread the awareness of the importance of regular breast exams. It can literally save ur life.

XOXO,
Dilara

Hello fashion lovers!

Today is the best day EVER!!!

To thank you for being our loyal fans, we are taking 50% off ALL products. A-L-L products!

Use the code DRESSTOKILL at checkout to take 50% off your cart! The code will only work until Friday 7 pm Eastern Time.  Then, you turn back into an ugly pumpkin.

Do some good in this world, don't let your friends dress bad - tell them about it by sharing this link.

XOXO

Dilara 

Hello, I’m a tanoholic.  Of course, NOT the UV type (cuz any true beauty junkie knows how bad overexposure to UV rays is)…but more the self tanner type.

As a pasty white girl, my life circumstances have forced me to try it all: from tanning gloves to sprays to creams to wipes.  After many disasters, streaks, orange eye brows and palms, I finally look respectable and can tell you everything you need to know on faking it yourself. 

Before I begin, I have to start by giving you the UV lecture. As a beauty industry insider for over a decade now, I’ve seen so much evidence against sun exposure that as pasty as I am I’m very cautious about over exposing myself to the sun.  UV rays are beneficial because they help with cell regeneration…but in MODERATION!  You should be wearing SPF every day, not just when going to the beach or snow.  80% of the signs of aging come from…drum roll…UV RAYs!  Pigmentation spots, wrinkles, do I need to scare you more?  I once saw a study of two identical twins, one was exposed to excessive sun throughout her life and the other wasn’t.  There was a HUGE difference in their perceived age. 

And now another lecture on a topic that's so disgusting I don’t even want to mention it in my blog.  The T-WORD.  Tanning beds…EW! Please don’t do tanning beds, doing that to your skin is just so ghetto.  Unless u dance around topless for a living and it can be considered your professional hazard, stay away from tanning beds.  There are a lot of new claims like ‘uv free, blah blah blah BLAH’.  Don’t do it, it’s really not worth it!

So, how to have that beautiful healthy glow of JLO and Kim without your private traveling spray tanning booth or damaging the health of your skin?  Self tanners, of course!!! People often associate these with orange skin, nasty smells, streaks and other such disasters.  It’s true; it can be that way if you don’t know what you are doing.  But if you do (which you are about to find out) get ready for lots of compliments on your glowing complexion.

PREPARING YOUR SKIN:

Preparing your skin is key which most people don’t know.  Prior to applying a self tanner you must exfoliate.  Why?  The outermost layer of you skin is composed of dead skin cells, the ones that have been dead the longest outside and the newly dead ones more on the inside. Self tanners work by coloring these dead skin cells.  You want to shed off all the skin cells that have been dead for a while and let the tanner develop the color on the newest layer of dead skin cells.  This ensures your tan lasts longer, and is uniform!  Even when you have a developed tan already and want to maintain, it’s important to keep exfoliating and re applying, not just re applying.  You will end up looking quite patchy…One MIRACLE secret that I discovered a few years ago is the Renaissance exfoliating glove. It’s sold exclusively at salons, or you can buy it from their web site: YOU MUSSST GET IT!!!

http://www.renaissanceglove.com/

I pretty much can’t live without it…it does such an insane job at exfoliating! It leaves the skin so smooth and soft and always gives me the most beautiful self tans after.  Even if you are not self tanning, exfoliation is very important for clear skin as it ensures that all dead skin cells and dirt are removed instead of clogging your pores.

Keeping your skin moisturized is also important-it will prevent cracks in the tan.  I've recently gotten into Argan oil (more on that later) due to all the magic it does for your skin hair and nails.  I like to go to small organic stores and shop organic Argan oil moisturizers.  

SELF TANNIG:

And now for the scariest part.  Applying the self tanner.  First, the products.  Like I said, I tried almost everything and I’ve been testing for the past 10 years or so.  By far by far by far the best self tanning products hands down are from a brand made in Monaco called LANCASTER.  Wow.  I’ve gotten nothing but compliments since I started using them.  They actually specialize in tanning (real and fake)

http://www.lancaster-beauty.com/

I use two products.  For body the Gradual Hydrating Bronze Lotion SPF6, and for my face the Ultra Natural Bronze Care SPF6.  I prefer to go with ‘gradual’ tanners rather than the ones that promise a deep glow in 2 hrs…it’s much safer this way!  A gradual tan will show almost invisible streaks or areas you missed which you can correct the next time you apply.  Also because they are not as powerful, you won’t have orange palms, etc.  And finally, you won’t STINK! In Canada, Lancaster retails in special Shoppers Drug Mart stores…but very exclusive distribution.  I load up on it each time I travel to Europe and almost always risk missing my flights as I’m clearing the Lancaster shelves at the Duty Free.  I’m a true Lancaster junkie.

I get a pretty nice glow after just several applications, and if I keep exfoliating, moisturizing and re applying I maintain a really nice bronze glow.

I apply after each shower, morning and night, but once you get your tan u can just do once a day.

Here are some application tips to help you avoid disasteres:

1.       Always wash hands immediately after with soap and warm water.  Especially in between our fingers! Also be careful not to leave any deposited on your cuticles, if you have dry cuticles like me it will color them orange!

2.       Make sure product doesn’t build up around your eye brows or hair line it will make these areas orange! Either avoid or blend very well.

3.       Be careful around elbows, knees and ankles, apply product sparingly and blend (don’t leave them out!) and blend especially well.  These areas tend to turn yellow.

4.       Be careful with getting splashed with water immediately after application.  I once washed my hands and water trickled down my wrist to my elbow…and soon enough I had a white line (water will take the newly applied product away).

5.       Lots of people ask me if using self tanners causes me to break out.  It doesn’t cause me to break out, but it can be hard for those that have oily skin, it causes you to oil up more than usual.  It’s very important that you use the appropriate cleanser and mattifying day cream to avoid breaking out.

6. Waxing, along with hair, removes the outermost layer of your dead skin cells.  Make sure you dont self tan right after waxing or wax right after tanning! 

So there u have it! Why bake when u can fake!!!

XOXO

LCN

It is so true: blondes DO have more fun! And we totally deserve the attention we get because maintaining a beautiful blonde mane is a lot of hard work, much harder than being a brunette.  If you burn with blonde ambition, here are are the most important things you need to know:

COLOR:

Going blonde for the first time: DON'T do it yourself and DON'T do it all at once.  You'll end up looking like a cheap prostitute.  Visit a professional. Depending on how dark you currently are and how light you want to go, the process can take anywhere between a few moths to more than a year.  Last time I decided to swap my jet black Pulp Fiction bob for Paris Hilton platinum I ended up having to wear a wig. Its very hard to find a hair dresser who is good with blonde, but I've had great experiences at Pure hair salon in Montreal, they've won many awards for their coloring skills.  Totally give them a call for a consultation.

If you MUST do it yourself... I've pretty much tested all box hair colors and achieved the best blonde results with a German hair color brand called Schwarzkopf.  This brand has THE BEST products for blonde color and care.  They recently launched a line called "COOL BLONDES" which has a built in anti-brassyness effect. This box color gave me UNBELIEVABLE crystal champagne blonde. I've been in pursuit of the perfect blonde for years, and it took just one week of staying in Germany to get it. Check them out:

Not sure if their box color is sold in Canada, but their professional line is definitely available in hair salons across Canada.

In second place is the L'Oreal Paris Superior Preference Dream Blonde collection. You can check it out on their web site: 

http://www.lorealparis.ca/haircolour/all-over-colour/superior-preference-dream-blonde.aspx

The problem with all box colors is that they don't lift as strongly as professional hair colors do.  Unless you are already at least a medium blonde, you'll never reach platinum status.

If you are coloring (not highlighting) its preferable that you don't wait till you have inch-long roots. This is because grown out roots are socially unacceptable, but also because growing your roots out and then coloring will give you less uniform blonde and a more visible root line (your roots have been colored once, and the hair after more than once).  I do my roots every two-three weeks to get the newly colored roots as blended in as possible.

So, now you are a blonde.  Even the best blonde jobs can get brassy over time. EW! There is nothing more depressing than brassy blonde hair. In fact, if u are a brassy blonde, get out of my blog!  What can you do to maintain a vibrant blonde?  You can go back to the salon and ask for a 'toner'.  A toner deposits ash/purple pigments on your hair to cut through the red pigments.  Also, buy a PURPLE shampoo.  YES, PURPLE.  Why? Because using this shampoo will deposit purple/ash pigment on your hair, and will cut thru the red pigments (opposites in the color circle).  The BEST purple shampoo is, again, from Schwarzkopf.  It's called Color Save Silver Shampoo.  Using this a few times a week will make a huge difference in maintaining the quality of your blonde.

CARE:

See how much trouble it is to achieve and maintain blonde hair? That's only half of it.  Lightening your hair of course, damages it.  You need to use high quality shampoos, none of that pharmacy stuff allowed! "we are a professional grade brand that costs less"...TOTAL BS! When it comes to hair care, what you pay for is what you get.  No matter what they claim, there is a hugely perceivable difference between using mass pharmacy brands and professional brands sold exclusively at salons.  I've tested almost all salon brands, and nothing beats Kerastase.  I religiously use the Bain Mirroir Shampoo for colored hair (the dark pink line), combined with a Masqueintense treatment for extra dry hair (the beige/yellow line).  If you've never tried Kerastase...you are missing out on a whole world of silky hair and pleasure.  Using it is like hair sex.  It smells divine, and seconds after the product touches your hair, you'll feel the difference.  There is no going back and you just may have to cut your food budget because it will cost you a lot.

Finally, what I find makes a big difference is using a hair oil after towel drying.  I used to be obsessed with Kerastase oils until Shu Uemura launched a hair line....ooooh la laaaaa!!!!! It was a turning point in my life. Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil....The $70 for a 150ml bottle of oil is worth every penny! Its a very special moment in my day.

So there you have it, everything you need to know for the perfect blonde job. Beautiful color and health is the essence of good looking hair.  No amount of blow drying, flat ironing or dressing up can fix that....your hair will look stunning on its own, ALL THE TIME! and it will make you look and, more importantly, feel good all the time.  

Do you you have any tips to share? Please do! and remember...
Gentlemen prefer blondes!

XOXO

Dilara 

1. ShopDilara is Canadian!  The head office and biggest distribution center is in Montreal, Canada.  This means that if you live in Canada, you pay the same price as you would in a store (no additional customs/duties/importation fees that you would pay if shopping on a US site, for example).  Not that you would find clothes like ours anywhere else! ;)

2. We are experts at helping you find the right size.  Customers write us all the time wondering which size to buy, or even if the item will fit their body type.  We have mannequin dolls which can be customized to your dimensions (bust, waist and hips).  Once we set the mannequin to your dimensions, we can try different sizes of the item you are interested in on this doll to see exactly how it will fit you, personally!  If you really like something but are hesitant to buy online, just drop us a line, info@ShopDilara.com.  A fitting stylist will reply to you within 24 hrs.

3. Yes, we've recommended customers not to buy a certain item.  We would rather not make a sale than have a disappointed customer!

4. In the past 4 months, we've had a 0% return rate.  This is mainly because we take great care to make sure you buy the right size, or that you don't buy an item that won't look good on you.

5. During the recent post canada strike, we shipped all Canadian packages "next day delivery EXPEDITED" at our own cost to make sure you don't wait for them too long!

6. We can send you more pics of an item, taken with an iPhone, so you are reassured of what the product looks like.

7. Our main policy is: "if I wouldn't wear it, there is no way I would sell it to you".  In the past, we have taken decisions not to sell entire batches of clothes if we felt that the final product was not of good enough quality. 

8. Returns are FREE in Canada!  This means there is absolutely no risk of getting stuck with something you don't like or doesn't look good just because you bought it online.  If anything, it's more convenient,  you don't have to go all the way to the store to return it, just mail it back to us and we will refund you everything!

9. We are not a giant mass retailer, but a boutique.  This means we are about fewer, special, hand selected, high quality items and not hundreds of mass produced pieces of the same item.  It's safe to say you won't show up at a party with 2 other girls wearing the same dress, as it often does when you shop at one of the FEW high end cocktail dress retailers in Canada.

10. Most of our clients are from Canada, followed by Lebanon, United States and Mexico.

Stay tuned for more facts about ShopDilara.  In the mean time, tell us what you would like to know about ShopDilara!

XOXO

Dilara