Striped sweater, Forever 21, $16.50.

A striped sweater can add a pop of colour, not to mention another layer to an outfit. This vibrant emerald green and white sweater from Forever 21 does both of the above at the cool price of $16.50 (plus tax).

It looks like thick, bold stripes aren’t going anywhere – they were spotted on the runway at Rag & Bone’s Fall/Winter 2012 show in New York City this week. I know it’s thinking a little far ahead, considering we haven’t completely made it through winter yet, but this sweater can take you through spring and into next fall.

If you aren’t digging the bold green, the sweater also comes in a few neutral colour combos, including classic black and white and a pretty black and blush, so whether you want to pile on the layers or wear the lightweight knit on its own you can do so in a variety of hues.

Sweater available at Forever 21, $16.50.

• Weekly steal: Statement necklace, $10.80
• Weekly steal: Faux-snakeskin flats, $25
• Weekly steal: Polka-dot blouse, $20
• High/low: Striped maxi dress
• Fall must-have: A cosy sweater

Twice a year, Winners hosts The Runway, an event which offers luxury and highly coveted labels at 30 to 70 per cent off their original retail price. The best spring fashions from international designers will arrive at select stores on Febuary 23 at 8 a.m. My heart is already fluttering with the anticipation of nabbing a designer deal – I think I may have to come into the office a wee bit late next Thursday.

The high-end spring/summer runway merchandise will hit 13 stores across Canada.

• Toronto: Queen and Portland, College Park, Bloor Street West, Lawrence and Bathurst, and Leaside.
• Oakville: 200 North Service Rd.
• Calgary: Signal Hill Shopping Centre
• Edmonton: 3355 Calgary Trail S.
• Vancouver: 789 Granville St.
• West Vancouver: Park Royal Shopping Centre
• Montreal: Place Montreal Trust, Marché Central and Place Alexis Nihon

I plan to be there, will you?

• Day 23: Gift ideas for the last-minute shopper
• Weekly steal: Faux-snakeskin flats, $25
• Weekly steal: Statement necklace, $10.80
• Keep your feet dry: 3 stylish rain boots
• Day 20: For the impossible-to-shop-for neice.

The good (and bad) thing about the tech-savvy climate we live in, is that virtually anyone who can get in front of a computer screen is granted access to a front-row seat. With live streaming, Twitpics, Instagram and complete collections being uploaded onto style.com just minutes after a show wraps, this once super-exclusive aspect of the fashion business is essentially open to the public.

NARS for Thakoon F/W 2012

Some of the major creative cosmetics giants (like M.A.C and NARS) send out beauty reports to journalists less than 24 hours after a show concludes. These emails outline the trends, the designer's inspiration and how the lead artist has interpreted said inspiration into a makeup look, including a breakdown of what was used on the models' faces, eyes and lips.

Backstage at Thakoon wearing NARS Lipstick in Heat Wave

Out of the many email blasts we've already recieved, this one from NARS (who did the makeup for the F/W 2012 Thakoon show) takes the cake. Maybe it's because I've been brainwashed by all things Valentine's Day-like, but the fresh luminous skin paired with powerful yet romantic bold lips is breathtaking.

The lead artist for the show was NARS makeup artist Diane Kendal. “Thakoon wanted to focus on the lip this season,” says Kendal. "We wanted to play with colour, and it ends up making the whole look so interesting." Kendal chose the award-winning (InStyle) NARS Semi-Matte Lipstick in Heat Wave. The full-bodied shade is a beautiful vibrant orange-red, and it's the perfect lippie to wear this V-day.

• Grammy Awards trend-spotting: Adele’s Louboutin nails
• GIVEAWAY: Love, Chloé purse spray
• 3 new romantic fragrances perfect for Valentine’s Day
• Spring trend alert: Ladylike and white
• Pretty, Quick: 3-step summer makeup

At last night’s Grammy Awards, Adele rocked a Christian Louboutin–inspired manicure with glittery tops and red undersides that matched her glittery silver Louboutin heels perfectly. If you’re tired of fall's popular half-moon manicure, this is an easy look to do at home.

Ciaté Paint Pots in Jewel, $14, ebeauty.ca

Following filing her nails into almond shapes, Ciaté creative director Mike Pocock painted the tops of Adele's nails with Ciaté Paint Pots in Jewel, a multicoloured glitter, and the undersides in Ciaté Paint Pots in Boudoir.

Ciaté Paint Pots in Boudoir, $14, ebeauty.ca

After seeing Adele’s nails and brainstorming multiple colour combinations, I’ve decided to grow out my nails starting now, since this manicure only works on long nails, which I’m severely lacking.

Would you try this Louboutin manicure at home?

Ciaté Paint Pots in Jewel and Boudoir, $14 each, available at ebeauty.ca.

• Seen at New York Fashion Week: Valentine’s Day beauty inspiration
• Spring trend alert: Ladylike and white
• Day 24: For the purveyor of polish
• Day 10: For the time-*pressed* nail artist
• Easy holiday DIY mani—we swear!

I'm going crazy for peplum tops right now! My wardrobe is currently a peplum free zone, so I'm on a quest to acquire one. It's a runway trend we saw a lot of last season, but now (finally) mass-market retailers are starting to carry this style in abundance. It's a retro silhouette that is undeniably feminine. My favourite way to wear a peplum is either in a tailored blazer or in a blouse. But be warned, dresses and skirts with the detail can have you looking a little preggo.

1. Peplum blouse, H&M, $30.
2. Red skinny jeans, Old Navy, $40.
3. Earrings, Banana Republic, $45.
4. Ring, Arden, $9.50.
5. Cross-body bag, Zara, $70.
6. Boots, Town Shoes, $120.

PROPER FOR WORK

1. Peplum blouse, H&M, $30.
2. Skinny cropped pants, Le Chateau, $80.
3. Statement necklace, Banana Republic, $85.
4. Watch, Timex, $85.
5. Tote bag, Guess at The Bay, $110.
6. Pumps, Town Shoes, $100.

FANCY AFFAIR

1. Peplum blouse, H&M, $30.
2. Pencil skirt, J.Crew, $134.
3. Earrings, Aldo, $10.
4. Nude clutch, Le Chateau, $50.
5. Necklace, Anthropologie, $58.
6. Ring, Aldo, $8.
7. Shoe, Topshop at The Bay, $33.60.

Are you into the peplum trend?

• Blythe blouse 3 different ways
• Stylish Steal: H&M Blouse $19.95

Faux-snakeskin flats, Old Navy, $25.

As much as I love and admire the highest of heels, nine times out of 10 I lean toward the practical when it comes to my footwear. So I’m always on the hunt for fashionable, yet functional shoes. Although I know they’re classic, I’ve grown tired of ballet flats, which is why I dig the current menswear trends since they’re good alternatives when looking for flat shoes.

These faux-snakeskin loafers from Old Navy do the trick. They’re trendy and the subtle snakeskin – a huge print last fall – gives this menswear classic a fun twist. Not to mention they can be paired with practically anything in your closet. A versatile shoe for $25 (plus tax)? What’s not to love?!

Faux-snakeskin flats available for $25 at Old Navy.

• Weekly steal: Statement necklace, $10.80
• The Weekly Steal: Old Navy Boat Shoe $12.50
• Weekly steal: Striped sweater, $16.50
• Shopping news: The runway at Winners
• Weekly steal: Polka-dot blouse, $20

After the 3 new romantic fragrances perfect for Valentine's day post went live on Monday, I've had a ton of feedback from friends, family and co-workers. Particularly about the purse spray from Chloé. People just love Love by Chloé! They also seem to be fascinated by the small golden bottle (which mimics the original), it's sorta flask like, no? Which in my personal opinion only adds to it's appeal.

Since people are going crazy over it, and we happen to have an extra one sitting in our beauty closet, let's do a giveaway! For your chance to win this stunning petite perfume answer us this: Have you ever been influenced to buy a fragrance because of the design. I have... several times.  The latest juice was Prada Candy. The scent doesn't do wonders for me, but the bottle is divine!

Contest closes Feb. 14, 2012, at 12 p.m. (EST). You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada and are of the age of majority in the province/territory you live in. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

CONTEST CLOSED. Thanks to all who entered, but the winning comment (picked at random) was Mel! Congratulations.

Love, Chloé Purse Spray, 10 mL, $82 is  available at The Bay and Holt Renfrew.

• 3 new romantic fragrances perfect for Valentine’s Day
• Day 13: For the perfume aficionado
• GIVEAWAY: Thomas Sabo Charm Rose Set
• Seen at New York Fashion Week: Valentine’s Day beauty inspiration
• Clean our your (beauty closet), lighten your wallet

One of my favourite trends for spring is floral pants. Sure, printed pants have been around for the past few seasons, but the different fit options available – from trousers to denim – keep the trend fresh (no pun intended). Plus, if you’re like me you can never resist a good floral.

My top pick are these trousers from Zara.

Floral trousers, Zara, $80.

If you’re not completely confident about wearing a printed pant these trousers are perfect since the floral isn’t too loud. Whether you pair these pants with a blouse and pumps at the office or with a T-shirt and loafers on the weekend, the easiest way to wear this trend is to keep your top neutral so the focus stays on the floral bottom.

If you’re feeling more adventurous or looking for something more casual, these white Citizens of Humanity jeans look ready for a spring weekend.

Citizens of Humanity Mandy floral jeans, $196, shopbop.com.

Would you wear floral pants this spring?

• SAG Awards trend-spotting: The formal jumpsuit
• The greatest capes
• Do you match your polish to your shoes?
• Floral Dress 3 Different Ways
• Long Skirt: 3 Different Ways

If you're after a new fragrance this year, but your partner is a little scent challenged, send him this post to steer him in the right direction. Here are three of the latest and greatest romantic olfactory juices to hit department stores in recent months.

Love, Chloé Purse Spray, 10 mL, $82, available at The Bay and Holt Renfrew.

This limited edition purse spray is a classic feminine juice found in a petite gilded package. The fragrance is a fine powdery scent with notes of orange blossom, pink pepper, iris, lilac, powdery musk and talc.

Vera Wang Lovestruck Eau de Parfum Spray, 50 mL, $79, available at The Bay, Sears, Sephora and Murale.

The inspiration for this fragrance was all about being madly in love. This perfume is a sparkling floral, and some of the major players found in this juice are pink guava, mandarin orange, tuberose, lotus blossom, precious wood and sheer musk.

Oscar de la Renta Live in Love Eau de Parfum Spray, 50 mL, $62, available at The Bay.

If you're looking for a true full-bodied floral, Oscar de la Renta's newest fragrance, Live in Love, is the perfume for you. This rich classic floral has top notes of hyacinth, bergamot, lily of the valley and orchid. The bouquet of middle notes includes jasmine, orange flower and rose – and finishes with base notes of sandalwood, Virginia cedar, amber and musk.

We want to know: What's one of your all-time-favourite feminine perfumes?

• GIVEAWAY: Love, Chloé purse spray
• Day 13: For the perfume aficionado
• GIVEAWAY: Thomas Sabo Charm Rose Set
• Seen at New York Fashion Week: Valentine’s Day beauty inspiration
• Clean our your (beauty closet), lighten your wallet

Zara Spring

Besides the classic white shirt, white jeans are the easiest way to incorporate the pristine hue into your summer wardrobe. We've shown you how to do it here.

But if you're looking to embrace this trend with open arms, the most fashion-forward way to adorn yourself in white is to do it from head to toe. Here are two ways to wear white-dominated outfits this spring – without looking like a vintage nurse. To avoid the pitfalls of slush and mud stains, you probably want to hold off a few more months before rocking these tonal white ensembles.

WHITE HOT

1. MSGM jacket, $127, matchesfashion.com.
2. ACNE T-shirt, $110, lagarconne.com.
3. Rag & Bone jeans, $54.29, theoutnetwork.com.
4. Pam Hiran necklace, $60, modcloth.com.
5. Gorjana Somerset earrings, $70, charmandchain.com.
6. Kelsi Dagger shoes, $104, heels.com.

WHITE AT NIGHT

1. Shirt, $50 (on sale), J.Crew.
2. Rachel Zoe skirt, $365, intermixonline.com.
3. Michael Michael Kors shoes, $168, Browns.
4. Saskia Diez necklace, $79, lagarconne.com.

Will you try an all-white outfit once spring is upon us?

• White Jeans 3 Different Ways
• Seen at New York Fashion Week: Valentine’s Day beauty inspiration
• Grammy Awards trend-spotting: Adele’s Louboutin nails
• Wear this, not that: Jeans edition
• Over the Rainbow: One-on-one denim fitting

Polka-dot blouse, H&M, $20.

Polka-dots were a huge trend for fall and it looks like we’ll be seeing more of the print this spring. Tucked in or out, this versatile blouse from H&M would look great at the office with a skirt or trousers, or paired with your favourite jeans on the weekend. The ladylike bow on the collar keeps the playful print from looking too childish – and at an affordable price ($20 plus tax), it’s sure to quickly become one of your spring wardrobe staples.

Blouse available at H&M, $20.

• Stylish Steal: Joe Fresh Swimsuit $24
• Weekly steal: Faux-snakeskin flats, $25
• Weekly steal: Statement necklace, $10.80
• Get her look: Demi Moore
• Wear this, not that: Nude shoe edition

Don’t her fresh skin and flushed cheeks look amazing?

Rose Byrne at the 2012 SAG Awards.

To create Byrne's look, makeup artist Hung Vanngo used affordable Joe Fresh products. After applying a little Primer ($12), Vanngo kept things light and used the Tinted Moisturizer in “Bisque” ($12) to get coverage minus the heavy foundation. (Both products will be available in March.)

Joe Fresh Primer, $12.

To achieve Byrne's youthful flushed cheeks, Vanngo applied Cream Blush in “Rose” ($8) to her cheeks and set it with the Powder Blush in “Rosette” ($6). He followed the blush with an application of the Limited Edition Highlighter Quad ($15) to Byrne's cheekbones, nose and forehead to give her skin that extra glow.

Joe Fresh Cream Blush in "Rose," $8.

Vanngo kept the spotlight on Byrne’s luminous skin by finishing the look off with subtle eyes and natural-looking lips, and he set her makeup with Translucent Loose Powder ($8).

What was your favourite beauty look from Sunday’s SAG Awards?

• SAG Awards trend-spotting: The formal jumpsuit
• Day 6: For little ladies
• High/low: Striped maxi dress
• Hot hue: Crushing on pumpkin
• Pretty, Quick: Wear a Bright Lipstick

Bridesmaids actress Rose Byrne took a risk in a glittering white Elie Saab Couture jumpsuit – and it worked. With minimal accessories and a perfect bob with blunt bangs, her look was refreshing and stood out among all the dull dresses that were seen on the red carpet.

Although it may seem intimidating, a jumpsuit can be a good alternative to your standard little black dress for a formal event. This black jumpsuit from Zara has a subtle plunging neckline and a side-tie that cinches the waist so it still has shape.

Combined Studio Jumpsuit, Zara, $179.

When wearing a jumpsuit, fit is key: anything that’s too tight or clingy will look more like club-wear than cocktail attire. Since this black jumpsuit has a simple silhouette, it’s a great canvas for your favourite accessories. Stack on some bracelets and rings and you have a stand-out outfit for your next formal event.

Jumpsuit available at Zara for $179.

Would you take a risk and wear a jumpsuit to a formal event?

• SAG Awards beauty: Get Rose Byrne’s look
• Spring trend-spotting: Floral pants
• The greatest capes
• Do you match your polish to your shoes?
• Long Skirt: 3 Different Ways

Necklace, Forever 21, $10.80.

Choker necklaces were a huge trend this fall and I love this chain necklace with arrowhead trim from Forever 21. The gold isn’t too shiny and at only $10.80 (plus tax) the price is dead on. Whether you wear it with a collared shirt or a crewneck sweater, a choker necklace is a quick and easy – not to mention affordable – way to improve a lacklustre outfit.

What do you do to keep your wardrobe feeling fresh?

Necklace available at Forever 21 for $10.80.

• Weekly steal: Faux-snakeskin flats, $25
• Weekly steal: Polka-dot blouse, $20
• Keep your feet dry: 3 stylish rain boots
• Day 23: Gift ideas for the last-minute shopper
• Day 20: For the impossible-to-shop-for neice.

I visited for a few days and flew back to reality on Sunday night, which means I spent a good chunk of time sitting tight on the airplane. Getting to and from your destination is almost always exhausting, and by the time you step off the plane you tend to look a little worn (well, I do at least). Here are three beauty items that help calm and relax me, and make me look a little bit brighter when I arrive at my destination. Hopefully they can help you, too, whatever your destination.

• Crabtree and Evelyn Antibacterial Moisturising Hand Gel in Citron, Honey and Coriander, 50 mL, $6. Why it's awesome: The fragrance is zesty and fresh – and it has the winning combination of being a hand sanitizer that is also super moisturizing.
• EOS lip balm in Honeydew, 7 g, $4. Why it's awesome: This long-lasting balm is  95 per cent organic and 100 per cent natural — and petrolatum free. But my favourite part is the design: No need to stick a dirty finger in the pot to apply, you just need to pucker up and and glide the ball across your lips.
• Avène Thermal Spring Water, 50 mL, $6. Why it's awesome: This spray helps restore your skin's natural balance. It's preservative free and it helps soothe, calm, hydrate and soften your skin. If I'm on a plane for more than four hours I always bring it along, otherwise my skin dries out and gets crazy flaky.

We'd love to know, what's your in-flight beauty must-have?

• Day 11: Life’s Little Luxuries
• Day 23: Gift ideas for the last-minute shopper
• Easy holiday DIY mani—we swear!
• Day 4: For the boot lovers
• High/Low: Plastic-Bristle Mascara Wands

I know it’s silly, but one of the main reasons I’ve avoided buying a pair of rain boots is, well, that most rain boots look like rain boots. Not to mention I hate lugging around a pair of shoes to change into once I’m indoors. But in the middle of a torrential downpour during my commute this morning, I decided that it’s finally time to stop being stubborn and to start being practical by investing in a pair of rubber boots.

Here are three stylish alternatives to the typical Hunter boots that you won't want to take off once you make it to the office.

Aigle two-tone rubber boots, shopbop.com, $242.

Loeffler Randall rubber ankle boots, zappos.com, $150.

Riding-inspired rubber and canvas boots, cougarboots.com, $90.

Would you wear any of these boots to keep your feet dry on a wet day?

• Weekly steal: Statement necklace, $10.80
• Day 23: Gift ideas for the last-minute shopper
• Day 20: For the impossible-to-shop-for neice.
• Target Canada updates: March 2013, more stores
• J.Crew’s landed on Canadian soil—finally!

Crystal headband, J.Crew, $156.

The always-stylish Michelle Williams accessorized her velvet Jason Wu gown with a vintage Fred Leighton headband.

Although some people would disagree with me, I thought the headpiece pulled together the whole look and gave her outfit an undeniable late '20s, early '30s vibe. Williams brought her BFF Busy Philipps as her date, and she also decided to adorn her head with a band. Although I wasn't a fan of her overall look, I loved her '60s inspired hairdo avec a simple thin plastic headband. Finally, the gal with my favourite hair of the evening: Charlize Theron. Her powder puff Dior couture gown and bedazzled Cartier headband could have gone to a bad place (a.k.a. princess-y prom) fast, but it all worked – largely in part to her loose, undone bun, paired with simple makeup. She somehow made her getup look effortless. Is there nothing she can't do?

What was one of your favourite looks from this year's Golden Globes?

• Wear This, Not That: Jean Shorts
• Polka Dot Shirt 3 Different Ways
• The Body Shop + Olympic Gold Medalists = Fun!
• Stylish Steal: Zara Sandals $29.99
• Day 21: Under Cover

The beauty trade kicks off today.

And it's not because I'm lazy (though I am) or that I don't want to eat more greens (I do!) but because I didn't really want to set myself up for failure. Was trying to start this year feeling fresh and bright, without all the requisite guilt that accompanies the first failed attempt at quitting chocolate, sugar, alcohol...or whatever else I've decided to strike from my lifestyle.

Which is why I'm so excited about the new Trade in and Trade Up event happening at all Bay stores starting today through January 26th, 2012. Here's the deal: bring any old skincare products from ANY brand (they can be new or empty) and receive a voucher worth up to $20 off your next purchase of fragrance or makeup.

One product=a voucher for $10 off a minimum of $50 of cosmetics or fragrance purchases.

Two products= a voucher for $20 off a minimum of $100 of cosmetics or fragrance purchases.

Can you argue with that? I'm heading there tomorrow and bringing Candy by Prada home with me.

Images courtesy of The Bay.

• 3 new romantic fragrances perfect for Valentine’s Day
• Day 13: For the perfume aficionado
• GIVEAWAY: Thomas Sabo Charm Rose Set
• Kitten Heel Comeback

Manicurist: Leeanne Colley. Photo credit: Natasha V

In the December issue, Katherine and I produced a beautiful nail art feature with some major help from Canada's nail queen: Leeanne Colley. It wasn't only pleasing to the eye, but it also demystified how to get the looks at home with DIY tips and steps.

A few months back I paid a visit to my favourite nail salon Tips Nail Bar & Spa — which also happens to be the homestead of Leeanne Colley. I sat down with one of her nail technicians extraordinaire, Rita Remark, to take me through the steps on how to accomplish a half-moon manicure at home. CLICK HERE to check out the how-to video.

• Staff Tested: OPI & Serena Williams Nail Lacquer
• Day 18: For the nail queen
• Staff tested: Revlon Crazy Shine
• Hot hue: Crushing on pumpkin
• Spa review: Snakeskin pedicure

I'm particularly fond of wearing this style of blouse in a bright hue teamed up with a lightweight fabric, either somthing airy like silk or sheer like chiffon. I also love pairing it with cropped trim trousers for a flirty boyish energy. Here are three stylish ways to incorporate this blouse into your wardrobe for any and all occasions.

OFFICE HOURS

GET THE LOOK

• Cuffed dress capris, Old Navy, $7 (on sale).
• Metal stretch belt, Topshop at The Bay, $40.
• Black frame lock bag, Topshop at The Bay, $43.50.
• Milan platform peep-toe shoes, Banana Republic, $112 (on sale).
• Watch, Timex, $75.

AFTER HOURS

GET THE LOOK

• Flannel skirt, Topshop at The Bay, $33.
• Twin link bracelet, Banana Republic, $50.
• Black suede wedges, Aldo, $100.
• Metallic clutch, Zara, $79.

CASUAL CHIC

GET THE LOOK

• Striped sweater, H&M, $30.
• Vintage matchstick cords, J.Crew, $91.50.
• Oxford shoes, H&M, $30.
• Necklace, Aldo, $20.

If you're not feeling the J.Crew Blythe blouse or think the price is a little high, here are three other options at every price (and quality) point.

1. Edit by Jeanne Beker, The Bay, $70.
2. Equipment silk shirt, Net-A-Porter, $90.
3. Cropped button-up top, Forever 21, $24.

• Hot hue: Crushing on pumpkin
• We love: Opulent studded earrings
• J.Crew’s landed on Canadian soil—finally!
• J.Crew coming to Canada!
• Stylish Steal: H&M Blouse $19.95

Like millions of Canadians I have a not-so-dynamic duo of extremely dry and sensitive skin. This makes finding a suitable body lotion somewhat of a challenge. I don't want any nasty parabens, can't have a fragrance but still need it to be über moisturizing. The answer is usually the same: Something from La Roche-Posay. This brand is known for dermatological products that specialize in sensitive skin.

Lipikar Baume AP Body Balm landed on my desk before the holidays. Even though it says it's a balm it feels more like a hybrid of a balm and a moisturizer – it's just a little more tacky than a creamy moisturizer. I had a friend at the office who was desperate to say goodbye to her dry skin so I gave her the balm to test it out.

Review: "On a good day I have extremely dry skin – I can't go a day without using body lotion. It's been approximately three weeks since I started using La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume and my skin hasn't felt tight or itchy – not once. I first noticed the lotion was a tad greasy, but I don’t mind it because it absorbs so quickly. If I'm in a hurry I leave a few water droplets on my skin and mix them with the lotion for a fast-drying action. Most greasy lotions can make you feel like you have a film on your skin, but not this one. Although the price is a tad bit steep, it's definitely one I won’t go without during these harsh winter days."

– Robin Beals, TC Media receptionist

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP Body Balm (200 mL, $25) is available at drugstores and mass-market retailers.

• Roundup: Hottest winter boots
• Day 16: For the slush crusher
• Amazing winter coats, now on sale
• The Sunscreen Chronicles: Josie Maran SPF 40+
• Easy DIY Face Scrub

Bourjois Smoky Eyes Eyeshadow Trio, $36.

How did your mornings go? I’m happy to report that both my Christmases (one last Sunday with Dad and one today with Mum) went smoothly — and most importantly, stress-free.

This year I didn’t forget about anyone, I think… In case you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of missing un petite cadeau for a cousin, niece or friend on Christmas day there is still hope. Some drug stores are open on December 25th - and they have plenty of beauty gift sets to offer. I’m particularly impressed with Shoppers Drug Mart’s offerings. I love this mini smoky eye set from Bourjois Paris — it’s also the perfect palette to create your NYE look.

For your chance to win this smoky eye kit let us know if you do a special makeup application for New Years Eve. I always wear a super metallic sparkly eye shadow paired with a ridiculous set of faux lashes. I kind of look like I’m a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, but I’m OK with that.

CONTEST CLOSED. Congratulations Kim Bail!

Contest closes Jan. 03, 2012, at 12 p.m. (EST). You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada and are of the age of majority in the province/territory you live in. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

• Day 17: For the beauty-crazed teen
• Day 5: For your creative, colourful cousin
• Day 1: Life-of-the-party makeup kit
• Day 23: Gift ideas for the last-minute shopper
• Day 21: For the lip-gloss lover’s stocking

Bobbing for Baubles—a CL Style Department Favourite

My point is that nails are very, very popular. So if you find yourself looking for a last-minute gift, get thee to a Shoppers Drug Mart. They have an amazing selection of gifts (obviously!) but most especially is their Essie selection. Grab a handful from the new collection and a few co-coordinating candy canes; shove into a small basket and cellophane it up. Instant pretty gift that any girl will love. I promise.

For your chance to win the winter collection from Essie, answer a question below: what nail polish shade would you never be caught dead wearing?

The Rules: Contest closes December 26th at 2 p.m. (EST.) You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada and are of age of majority in the province/territory you live in. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

• Day 10: For the time-*pressed* nail artist
• Easy holiday DIY mani—we swear!
• Staff tested: Revlon Crazy Shine
• Pretty quick: Liquid eyeliner
• The (Beauty) Wedding Countdown

Elephant ring, $69.99.

I already battled the crowds at the mall this past Saturday, and not even a 70 per cent off sale at J.Crew could suck me back in. I have a backup plan. This retailer always has stylish steals and it's not located in a mall — Winners!

I've been told by friends that I'm somewhat of a Winners super fan, and it's so true. It's my happy place, I seriously think my blood pressure drops significantly when I step inside — but so does my account balance. It's the perfect place for holiday procrastinators because it covers off everyone on your hit list — mom, dad, brother, sister, daughter, son, friend, co-worker, dog walker... You get what I'm laying down, right?

For your chance to win a $50 Winners gift card let me know what's your favourite find that you purchased at the discount department store.

CONTEST CLOSED. Congratulations Adrienne!

Contest closes Jan. 03, 2012, at 12 p.m. (EST). You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada and are of the age of majority in the province/territory you live in. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

• Keep your feet dry: 3 stylish rain boots
• Day 25: Present impossible
• Day 21: For the lip-gloss lover’s stocking
• Day 20: For the impossible-to-shop-for neice.
• Day 18: For the nail queen

Anyway. That's why I'm so excited about these Discovery kits ($43) from Pangea Organics. It can be extremely tricky to find natural and effective drugstore products in mini sizes. So you're either forced to switch from your beloved brands if your bottle's too big (i.e. you're flying and taking a carry on) or schlepp all of your faves with you, weighing down your bag (that's already bursting at the seams from all your gifts!).

To win one of three kits from Pangea Organics, answer the question below: What's your favourite natural skincare remedy?

The Rules: Contest closes December 24th at 2 p.m. (EST.) You can enter once only. You’re eligible only if you live in Canada and are of age of majority in the province/territory you live in. Not open to any TC Media employees or the people they live with.

• Nature’s Rescue Giveaway
• Day 2: For the eco-beauty friend
• Easy holiday DIY mani—we swear!
• Editor (and puppy) tested: Eco Pooch Shampoo
• Get her look for less: Julianne Moore