Double Scoop

Over the Summer one of our favorite pieces from the den was this sweet scalloped dress reminiscent of an awning you would see over an ice cream parlour.  We came to call it the parlour dress.  What better place to take this darling dress than on a trip to one of my fave local ice cream shoppes, Dairy Dream, located downtown Cobourg?  2 scoops of anything pink with sprinkles please!!

Dress - Kittens Den. Clutch - Mad Monkey Clothing. Bracelet - Button Bands. Earrings, Ring and Necklace - Sugar Coated. Mani by Polish.

All photos by Jeannette Breward Photography.

Sweeter With You

On a recent jaunt downtown Port Hope, scouring for boxing day bargains, Jeannette and I came across a deal too fab to resist. A $20 clearance rack at one of our all-time favorite shops Campbell's Clothing Company. We were absolutely delighted to discover the most darling vintage-style dresses by BB Dakota and Knitted Dove just waiting to be scooped up. It was an instant AHA! moment. There's only one thing the darlings may love more than a sweet deal - a sweet treat, of course!! So why not take these dresses home and stage a photoshoot combining our passion for all things sweet. The perfect excuse to bring home yet another fab frock, yes? We even shared the cookies.

Jewels and Shoes from Suzy Shier.

All photos by Jeannette Breward Photography.

Getting New Years Ready on Walton

Jeannette and I recently took a wander downtown Port Hope, camera in tow, with one thing on our minds. New Years Eve. The best thing about this time of year for a gal like me is without hesitation the glamour. Sparkles, beading, lace and feathers...nothing is off limits when the clock strikes midnight and the electricity of a new year and a new beginning is in the air. Nights like this only come once a year and I don't take the opportunity to let my inner diva come out to play lightly. Lucky for us our community is full of shops to thrill even the most fastidious fashionista. If you haven't found your perfect dress yet (or maybe it's what's underneath that counts) it's not too late!! Here are a few of our very fave finds from our style spotting expedition on Walton Street.

To-die-for clutches, luxe dresses and glam accessories galore from the one and only Mad Monkey Clothing. Trendy must-haves in the heart of downtown Port Hope, and online shopping too! Rejoice. Eye candy galore and the friendliest staff around. We could barely contain ourselves.

 We almost tripped over our own feet when we walked past the window display at new formal wear boutique This Is It. If you're looking for that high end, wow-factor piece this is the place to be. Completely swoon-worthy, luxurious gowns that go the extra mile in the details. And bridal wear too!! Oohs and ahhs guaranteed.

Another one of our fave shops on Walton is without a doubt Campbell's Clothing Company. Be sure to score something slinky to slip into before taking home a wow-factor dress for up to 50% off!! The darlings couldn't help but to do a little shopping between snapping pics. ;)

Our resolution for 2014? Support more amazing locally owned shops like these and show Northumberland region that we've got style, darling!! Happy shopping and best wishes to each and every one of you lovelies for a fun and fashionable new year!!

XO, The Darlings.

All photos by Jeannette Breward Photography.

But first, coffee.

If you're going to catch me anywhere in my hometown it's sure to be one place - Harden & Huyse Chocolates, downtown Cobourg. It's my happy place. I've been known to wiggle in anticipation while watching the friendly staff make me one of their glorious peppermint mochas, it's really something to behold. It's not just the coffee that will get you, (and trust me once you go H&H you never go back)  it's the entire experience of being in a space that is really and truly something special. This hidden gem is not only known for it's delectable selection of homemade chocolates and superior cups of java, it's also a hub in our community where artists, business owners, busy Moms and cheerful retirees alike convene for chatter and a well deserved break in the day. It's not unusual to find a local artist sketching away at a corner table while sipping on a bevvy or to spy a group of cheerful toddlers playing happily in the corner. It's a home away from home, but with chocolate. Doesn't get any better than that. 

Vest - Old Navy. Shirt and Necklace - Le Chateau. Leather Leggings -  YAS, found at The Bay. Shoes - Urban Planet. Clutch - Call it Spring. Jacket - H&M.

And just for fun...a peek at some behind the scenes shenanigans during our shoot.

All photos by Jeannette Breward Photography.

Featured Fashionista - Brooke Mullins

When I first settled into Northumberland County, having moved from Toronto (aka the big city), part of me felt a loss; a void for the style and the arts that seemed to burst from the seams of every corner in my former home. Soon it was realized that my new digs were actually settled amongst pockets of the most delightful and remarkable people. Artisans of all talents, authors, directors, musicians, budding entrepreneurs, inventive chefs..and the fashionistas. As soon as I began to take notice it was like waking from a dream. How lucky I am to live in such an inspired and cultured community!! Of course I have a special fondness for the brave small town fashionista. I see her sitting at the local coffee shop wearing her exceptional Stuart Weitzman boots, kids in tow, looking effortlessly fabulous, just for the joy of it. Northumberland County is full of extraordinary people and fashion is everywhere..when you know where to look.

Brooke Mullins knows all about finding fabulous. I was lucky enough to meet Brooke at an art centered event or two and was instantly drawn to her eclectic and one-of-a-kind sense of style. I soon learned that not only is Brooke a fashionista in her own right but a huge supporter of women in business and a talented local designer responsible for my favorite jewelery must-have Button Bands. Brooke was kind enough to invite the darlings into her home for a tour of her envy worthy closet and share her top secrets for seeking style in Northumberland County.

Dress - Vintage. Head Piece - Michal Negrin. Purse - Mary Frances

The Darlings:
"If you could sum up your personal style in one word what would it be?"

Brooke:
"Eclectic."

The Darlings:
"Tell us a little bit about what has influenced your personal style today."

Brooke:

"I'm inspired by anything that is eye catching. I love seeing different types of fabrics and patterns mixed and woven together. I believe it was Prada that started that trend and it blew my mind the first time I saw it. As someone who sews, I can really appreciate the creativity. As for brands, I adore anything from Anthropology and Free People. And before I came to know brands, growing up, it was my mother's style that influenced me a lot."

The Darlings:
 "You've mentioned on several occasions your fondness for vintage shopping. Can you tell us some of your best tips for shopping vintage locally?"

Brooke:
"By far, the *Treasure Trove is a favorite for vintage finds. I'm still gutted that I got there a bit late one evening and missed out on scoring a beautiful cream bead and embroidery top. Another woman beat me to it. Wednesday nights are my favorite." 

*The Treasure Trove is a vintage and second-hand sale which takes place Wednesday, Friday and Saturday out of St. John's Church in Port Hope. All women's clothing items are $2 each and all the proceeds from sales go towards various local charities. Children's clothing items as well as household treasures are also available at the sale. 

 Dress - Vintage. Jacket - A treasured gift from Amsterdam. Necklace - A family heirloom. Boots - Suzy Sheer.

The Darlings: 

"What are your favorite local places to go shopping?"

Brooke: 

"Besides Treasure Trove I also love shopping for vintage at My Sister's Closet in Port Hope. For unique new clothing and accessories my favorite local shop is Impresario Artisan Market downtown Cobourg."

The Darlings: 

"What trends are you most excited about trying this Fall/Winter?"

Brooke: 

"I like all of the zippered shoes and dresses. I like the industrial look to them. I'd also like to get my hands on above the knee boots. Although, I can't help but think of Julia Roberts career in "Pretty Woman" when I see them."

The Darlings: 

"What's the best piece of fashion advice you could offer to a budding fashionista today?" 

Brooke: 

"If you don't feel good in what you are wearing, you're not going to look good. Confidence is number one, and unique accessories are always a plus."

The Darlings:
"What inspired you to launch your Button Bands collection?"

Brooke:
"I used to make children's clothing from re-purposing older clothes and fabrics. I soon found that I had an ever-growing collection of buttons and as so many of them were quite beautiful, little works of art actually, I wanted to find a way to also re-purpose them. Thus, Button Bands was born and almost four years later, I've no time to make anything but Button and Baroque Bands. I'm not complaining, however."

The Darlings:
"Tell us about one of your favorite buttons."

Brooke:
"I have fallen in love with many a button. People don't realize that buttons have changed the way we look in clothes. They not only gave us curves, but also a new way to accessorize. While I really can't name a favorite button, I have been hoping to come across a button of a fly. They used to be common over a hundred years ago and insects in jewelry seem to very popular this season. I like weird and quirky buttons, the most."

The Darlings:
"What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about turning their creative talents into their own business?"

Brooke:
"If you are thinking of starting up your own business, make sure you have a good accountant! I'd also say, as my mother always did," bravery is rewarded".


All photos by Jeannette Breward Photography.