Lust, love – Studio Shoot

Been a while but finally got some shots from the photo shoot a while back with Miranda Gagnon (model) and Sara Anderson (photographer)! They are absolutely gorgeous and l had a fabulous time being in the studio with these two BOMBSHELLS. Miranda’s a rocket and Sara…you are coming into your own, girl. These photos are great. I hope to be able to do some styling like this again some time soon!

xx
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Champagne taste on a shoestring budget

Dedicated to S & A

We’ve all been there. Some may always be. There’s no shame. Shopping on a budget can be tricky, especially when you have expensive taste and/or on the hunt for an item that isn’t going to fall apart after a few wears.

Side note: if you’re thinking about buying an expensive item that wouldn’t normally fit within your budget, but you REALLY REALLY want it and/or have convinced yourself that you absolutely NEED it, then at least remember these rules…Can you wear it with three different items you already own? Can you wear it to three separate places/events? Can you think of three different ways to accessorize the piece? (Penny Pinchers Almanac, Reader’s Digest Canada) If you can’t, don’t buy it!

As previously mentioned in “Fashion Tips 101 for les garçons – Getting Mansome”, it’s important to dress well if you want to make a good first impression; the way you present yourself is the first thing people notice. What can I say, it’s in our nature to judge. I’m not saying you need to revamp your entire wardrobe every season or every time a new trend hits the streets because we’d all be broke and living like gypsies. I’m also not going to tell you to ignore trends. You can still be “trendy” and “up-to-date” with your style without emptying your wallet; focus on constructing your own style. Being unique is sexy, most of the time, unless you walk around dressing like Nicky Minaj on a daily basis. It’ll turn heads but may not be the kind of attention you’re looking for. Point is, looking like a fashion drone isn’t the way to go either.

So, here are a few simple rules on how to look successful, dapper, stylish, and whatever else you want to call it…on a budget:

1. Get thrifty – No shame in shopping at thrift stores (donate once in a while too)
2. Be creative (BRECREATIVE!!) – Mix & match patterns, colors, and textures, alter old clothes, etc.
3. Be patient. Wait for end of season clearance sales. You’ll walk out of the store feeling orgasmic about your purchase instead of wanting to cry. You may also have cash leftover to buy something other than KD for dinner.
4. Be versatile. Remember the rule of 3? Make sure your purchase can be worn with various outfits. If you’re not in LOVE with the item, put it back. I said put it back!
5. Buy your basics (tees, jeans, tanks) and pair them with other items. Dress them up! I like to spend a little bit more on my basics but many people do the opposite. I think investing in a quality pair of jeans, for example, is money well spent. I wear my black skinnies almost everyday. I want them to last more than three months. Find a brand that fits you well and stick with them. I used to have such a hard time finding jeans that fit me properly because of my white-girl Beyonce thighs…but now that I have, I never stray. Make that behind shine.
6. Find good deals online! Beyond the Rack has beautiful designer clothes and accessories for less. Depending on your style and budget, there are hundreds of online stores that have cute, affordable finds.
7. Accessorize – purses, shoes, jewelry, etc…can make an outfit look totally different.

If you really want to save money, don’t buy clothes you don’t absolutely need. I feel like a hypocrite saying that because I’m a shopping monster. If it makes my heart melt, I’m buying it (just pretend you didn’t read that).

One last thought: make sure the clothes fit – you don’t want clothes to just look “okay”, you want them to look great. If they’re baggy in all the wrong places, have holes, or make your waistline look like you’ve been eating nothing but cupcakes all week, move on.

Happy thrifty shopping, monsters.

Fashion Tips 101 for les garçons- Getting mansome

Boys, this is for you.

This isn’t only applicable to men, but it’s a little crazy how many dudes don’t care about their appearance. It’s not about looking like a Ken Barbie Doll or those dapper gents in GQ. It is, however, about knowing what suits your body type and getting well-fitted pieces.

Side note: Studies have shown that it gives you points in the trustworthiness department and babes are also more likely to pay attention.

Now, these are essentials I’ve put together for the average man. However, depending on your occupation and/or style, this list may vary a little (especially for you artsy men).

Now, let’s get mansome:

Peeking into your wardrobe you should have the following (or a variation thereof):

  • Dark, well-fitted suit
  • Fitted white & black dress shirt (another option: oxford cloth button downs)
  • Well-fitted denim
  • One dapper sweater (crew or v-neck – cashmere is always a bonus)   *Can be worn with jeans or dress pants, paired with a blazer, or thrown over a white or black tee. Again, make sure it’s fitted & soft…no babe wants to lean against a rough shoulder when she’s trying to get close to her man.
  • Sharp, black (or brown) leather dress shoes (throw in some argyle socks)
    Make sure they are a slim dress shoe – no squared toed, you’re not a pilgrim.
  • Canvas shoes (depending on your style)
  • Leather jacket (brown or black) – rugged, badass staple piece
  • Cologne (make sure it’s not overpowering, you’re not in an axe commercial)
  • Undershirts
  • Boxers/boxer-briefs that aren’t covered in stains and holes
  • Belts that match your shoes
  • At least one tie (depending on your line of work. Make sure you have at least one basic tie, you can get a little spicy with the rest)
  • Classic watch
  • An overcoat
  • Khaki pants
  • Sneakers
  • Athletic wear (whether you’re rocking a 6-pack and hitting the gym 4X a week or bumming around the house playing COD, you want to have some comfortable clothes)

So, if you only own one or two items from this list, don’t worry. Get a few pieces that will get you started – it’s all about mixing & matching! Takeaways: Make sure the clothes are fitted, make sure you’re comfortable, and stay true to your own personal style!

Until next time my handsome men

xx

Brecreative is getting Manly

It’s been a while since my last blog post but it was worth the wait. For all you sexy men out there, I recently decided to start shooting men’s fashion to give my blog a little more variety. A lot of men have trouble buying clothes that fit properly and/or doubt themselves when a woman isn’t present to give them that nod of approval. If you’re spending the $$$, you want the clothes to fit impeccably and you want babes to swoon as you walk by on the street…even take a second glance. Remember that post on ‘what every woman should have in her closet’? I’m going to do the same for men (FALL EDITION!) So, babely beasts remember these tips – you may not always bring a girl to her knees but I promise you’ll look good trying ;)

Coming Soon xx

Red and blue plaid long sleeve shirt – (Penguin from Trustfund on Sussex) paired with a white v neck tee and black slim fit levi’s from Roadtrip Clothing.

Summer Photoshoot by the Beach

A few weeks ago I was approached to do the styling for Solon Licas, a Toronto based photographer. My gorgeous friend Erika was approached to do the modeling. The photos turned out really great and I totally love how the outfits turned out on such a sunny afternoon. We worked with what we all had from our closets – it was a great experience, especially with NO budget whatsoever. Would love to have the chance to do this again

Check out the photos of the lovely Erika photographed by Solon @ Fashion Parkland - he also has a few of them posted on his website @  Solon Licas

Coconut-Chocolate Chip Scones

You will need the following ingredients for these spectacular coconut chocolate chip scones:
2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 butter or margarine (vegan or non-vegan)
1/3 cup sugar
3 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup grated coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (add more if desired)
1/2 cup coconut milk

1. mix together dry ingredients:
2 1/2 cups flour
1/3 cup sugar
3 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

2. cut butter ingredient into dry mixture just until it’s worked in (small balls of butter)
3. 1/2 cup of coconut milk in separate bowl
4. put try mix and coconut milk containers in freezer for 10 mins (still separated)
5. REMOVE FROM FREEZER
6. mix grated coconut and chocolate chips into dry mix
7. pour coconut milk into dry-mix
8. fold together lightly (make sure to not over mix)
9. grease up that baking sheet
11. cut out desired scone shapes on lightly floured surface to avoid sticking
12. oven for 12 mins or until golden brown
Preheat oven @ 425F & BAKE BAKE BAKE BAKE BAKE BAKE

This was brought to you by the lovely Sara Anderson. Check out her swag here http://moe-jane.tumblr.com/
Let me know how they taste & don’t be greedy, share the treats.

Very Berry Scones!

I haven’t tried making these, if you do let me know how they are! Make them for your mother.

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons butter
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh (or frozen) berries – raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, take your pick
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup vanilla yogurt

Coat the pre-baked scones with a bit of yogurt to keep them moist as they bake! Bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes

 

A must try. Bishop’s late night eats with Kuehner 3rd Floor

I went to visit my beautiful friend in Montreal the other week and forgot to post this amazing creation for all of you. In my first year of university, which seems like a lifetime ago, we used to head down to the cafeteria for some late night snacks…mostly to get as much sugar in our system as possible. Try this out…F freshman 15, bring it on. Put chocolate ice cream in a MUG (it tastes better…just go with it). Then, add in as little or as much peanut butter as you can handle (1-2 tablespoons is ideal)…finally top it off with a little bit of chocolate milk. Stir lightly and enjoy the taste of choco nutty love. Bomb digs. Side note, the pic doesn’t do justice. S is lactose and we had to improvise ;)

Juicy Raspberry White Chocolate Scones

This ain’t fashion baby but brecreative has added a food & recipes section for all you food lovers. I had to repost this for the world to enjoy – too fabulous. let me know what you think! If you have suggestions for improvement, please comment!

2 cups flour

1/3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons butter (cold, not melted)

1/3 cup white chocolate chips (or chunks)

3/4 cup raspberries (I use fresh ones)

1/2 cup vanilla yogurt

1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 egg

mix flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda

then add in butter, egg, vanilla yogurt, pure vanilla extract (mix with hands or mixer, do not overmix!)…add in raspberries and white chocolate chips by hand – do not overmix the raspberries or the batter will turn gray :) …I do it all the time but people seem to think they’ve gone bad :( I swear they are scrumptious

bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes! enjoy the treats xo

Throwing kisses in the powder room

Had a great day in Montreal with Steph – such a cutie. Had the opportunity to photograph some pieces in her wardrobe while listening to some Just Jack & Starfucker. Steph, if you’re reading this…I must take you up on that offer to make me a fabulous faux fur carpet for some $$$ – beautiful. Wish I had taken a snapshot! Next time my dear xo

dresses!

It’s prom season!!! and dress season in general…well maybe not right now, the weather has been awful. We need SUN RAYS! So, whether you are pear shaped, petite, athletic, slender, tall, hourglass, apple, busty, or flat-chested, knowing what style of dress looks best is always a plus. You don’t want to go out looking frumpy, bigger than you are, or not proportioned. I won’t go through all the different types but here are a few suggestions with dress season quickly approaching. For women who are pear-shaped, finding a dress with a fitted top (top half of the dress) and an a-line skirt is perfect. If you want to accentuate your great ASS, go for it…get something a little more form fitting. For women who are a little more busty, look for something that has a unique neckline and full support. It doesn’t mean you need to wear a turtleneck, just know what you want or don’t want to accentuate. By wearing a dress with a fabulous neckline or a unique hem, you won’t have strangers staring at your chest (or flaunt them!)  For you ladies who are a little more ‘apple’ shaped, find a dress with an empire waist or a higher waist line. If you need anymore tips, don’t hesitate to contact me! I wish I had something fabulous to go to so that I could buy a new dress! Remember the spring colours this season!

http://www.channel4.com/4beauty/style/dress-for-your-body-shape/dresses-by-body-shape
found these videos from channel 4 – check them out if you’re in need for more dress advice!

a must read for all you fabulous women over 50

Being over 50 doesn’t mean you need to be frumpy and totally give up on style. These are some classic pieces that every woman over 50 should have in her wardrobe to look and feel fabulous.

- leather jacket (of course you can still pull off leather)
- a pencil skirt that is well fitted (black, khaki, gray, navy) I prefer black but depends on your taste, it’s also slimming.
- one fabulous trench coat (black/khaki – stick to neutrals)
- a white blouse
- a pair of flats, an evening shoe (3 + inches for those sexy nights out), casual shoe, and a low heel for the office
- cashmere sweater (again, try to stick to neutrals) if you can spend more and want to add more variety, get a cute pattern! these can be worn over camisoles
- a fitted jean! dark blue or black – keep it casual but sophisticated. A good pair of jeans is worth the $$$. Remember to check where the pockets are located and the cut of the jean because this will affect the style and how the jean looks on you. show off those curves!
- a pair of fitted slacks (again stick to neutrals so you can pair them with different tops!)
- a well fitted bra! don’t let those ladies get too far!
- don’t go wild on patterns in areas you don’t want accentuated.

Now for the fun part. Mix up your wardrobe by adding in colour wherever you can!
- accessories (bangles, necklaces, earrings, bags!) remember, you don’t need to match your bag and shoes like a lot of people think. mix patterns and colours with basics.

Featuring Brecreative’s Winner & Runner-up!

WINNER! Submitted by Sarah!

Stunning photos and lovely cupcakes! These flats obviously gave you great SPRING inspiration for this creation! I bet they also taste delicious. Great use of color and quite a perfect match – I hope you enjoyed the baking and decorating process as much as I enjoyed staring at these cupcakes with my mouth open! Thank you for participating! A gift certificate from a bakery near you is on the way! An e-mail will be sent to you shortly. Congratulations!

Runner-up submitted by Terri!

I love the tangerine, coral, and yellow you brought to this dessert! The outfit screams ‘SPRING’ and the scarf is a great accessory for you! The tangerine trifle looks great…and as a little BONUS, Terri also submitted the recipe, which I will also post for all you readers who would like to try making it at home. Thank you for participating! An e-mail will be sent to you shortly. Congratulations!

Tangerine Dream trifle

Ingredients:

5-6 Tangerines

1 tsp dried currants

1(170 g) pkg of orange JELL-O

½ cup freshly squeezed tangerine juice

1 L Whipping cream

¼ cup white granulated sugar

2 ounces white chocolate

1 (153g) pkg JELL-O vanilla pudding mix

2 ½ cups cold milk

1 white pound cake (approximately 9X13)

1/4 cup toasted sweetened coconut

2 tsp sweetened coconut

Directions: Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees. Slice tangerines and lay flat on parchment lined cookie sheet. Cook on 180 degrees for approximately 90 minutes, or until tangerine slices are dry enough they can be cut without falling apart. Cut tangerine flowers with medium-sized flower cookie or fondant cutter. Set aside. Add 2 cups boiling water to orange JELL-O mix then stir until dissolved. Add 1½ cups cold water and ½ cup freshly squeezed tangerine juice. Refrigerate until nearly set (a little jiggly). Melt white chocolate on medium power (6) in microwave for about 2 ½ minutes or until melted. Whip cream with electric beater until soft peaks form, then add melted chocolate and white granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use. Add 2 ½ cups cold milk to JELL-O vanilla pudding mix and beat for 2 minutes, then let stand for 5 mins in the fridge. Add toasted coconut to pudding. Break apart cake into small pieces and lay half the cake in bottom of trifle bowl. Top with ½ the vanilla pudding mixture. Take 4- 6 tangerine flowers and place around edge of bowl and press against glass. Add ½ the white chocolate whipped cream. Top whipped cream with nearly set orange JELL-O. Then repeat with cake layer,  then pudding and ending with whipped cream. Sprinkle 1 tsp sweetened coconut on top. Top with 3-4 tangerine flowers and add 4-5 currants to the center of each one. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Preparation time: 40 minutes – Yield: 15

Thanks to everyone who participated! Great first contest!

Baking Contest – Brecreative’s Favorite Picks. Winner & Runner-up Announced @ 5PM!

Mini Blueberry tarts – this is absolutely adorable. It looks like it’s a dessert taken from a magazine (like food & wine!) I love how it’s shaped like a flower. Thanks for the submission – can you send me one to taste?

Ginger, lemon, & peach! Never heard of it but I would definitely love to try it. Great decorations, gives it some color.

This mint oreo square looks absolutely amazing and the colors really POP! I’m a little bias as the mint is one of my favorite colors (add oreo into the mix and I’m all yours). I love how you decorated around the square and how it matches your outfit perfectly. Thanks for the submission!

Alright, so I know you’re all thinking – this isn’t anything baked, it’s not a dessert, she’s just holding red peppers, tomatoes, and hot sauce…BUT I couldn’t resist. I had to post this – it is creative. Not relevant really but creative ;) It’s a beautiful skirt and the red is so vibrant. What a great day for a BBQ – put those veggies and hot sauce to good use girl!

Fruit bouquet – also not baked but hilarious in it’s own way. Great shot of this lovely bouquet. Flower pot inspiration is acceptable!

Saved this for last – it’s creative because now we don’t only talk about the gingerbread man, we now have a gingerbread woman! It also looks like something I would bake ;) Love the sprinkles and the colorful outfit reminds me of a top I have and absolutely adore. Thanks for the submission girl! Rock that outfit this weekend!

Winner & Runner-up will be announced shortly!

BAKING CONTEST IS FINALLY OVER!

Thank you for all the submissions! I wish I had asked everyone to send me the recipes as well! They all look so delicious and I wish I could eat them <3 I know I said I would pick ONE WINNER but some of the entries were so amazing, which made it very hard for me to choose just one. So, I decided to pick a runner-up as well, who will also receive a small prize for their efforts! Winner, runner-up, and a few of my favorite picks will be up no later than 5PM – I promise!

Thanks again everyone, you are all so creative. Isn’t breing-creative FUN. Don’t you love playing the waiting game ;) …tick tock 5 o’clock.

Suede Fringe & Fuchsia Love with S.

Pairing black with a vibrant color will make you stand out and definitely makes an outfit more playful! This suede black hole/fringe top is from Forever21! I absolutely adore it and thought it would be great to shoot. Fuchsia skirt (actually a dress that you can wear a bunch of different ways) is from American Apparel a few seasons ago. I’m pretty sure they still sell them.

Layering is my favorite….Until next time xo

FASHION-BAKING CONTEST!

CONTEST FOR SPRING!!! Create a baked good (of your choice) that is inspired by a spring-outfit! remember the colours for this season are tangerine, mint, lavender, etc. it doesn’t have to be those colours, just giving you ideas. I’m giving you until next friday (April 6th) to send me a photo of you (with your outfit on) and your baked good to breonna.burnatowski@gmail.com! If you don’t want your face in the picture don’t worry! I can crop. I will post my TOP 3 favorites on my website and pick a winner for a $20 gift certificate to a bakery near you. PARTICIPATE!!! it’ll be a good time :) and most of all..BE CREATIVE!!! you don’t need to be a master baker! can’t wait to see your outfit-inspired baked goods! xo

 

New gems don’t need to be expensive

Thoughts? I love finding amazing stand-out pieces of jewelry. You don’t need to spend big $$$ on jewelry unless it’s a timeless piece that you wear often. These fun, eye-catching pieces will eventually go out of style and you’ll feel crushed if you’ve spent too much on them. Check out stores like H&M, ZARA, FOREVER21, URBAN OUTFITTERS, ANTHROPOLOGIE, & any vintage stores (Ossington, Queen – if you want something a little more unique) start accessorizing your wardrobe with BOLD pieces. Necklaces are my favorite.