Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Holiday Classics

2011-12-23T10:38:00.000-08:00

1. White Christmas

Four impressive entertainers will lift your spirit, in their expression of sincere gratitude to an old army general. Bing Crosby's incredible voice, the awe inspiring musical numbers, and the comedic chemistry between Danny Kaye and Crosby, combine to create a must see christmas classic.

2. Love Actually

Multiple story lines are linked seamlessly in Love Actually, a film that depicts a series of events prior to christmas. No matter what, it is clear that all you need is love and it exists all around us.

3. How the grinch stole christmas

Whether you choose the original cartoon, or Jim Carrey's modern depiction, this story's message remains the same. The true meaning of christmas is being thankful for the love and joy from family and friends.

4. Home Alone

The ultimate childhood dream comes true for Kevin (Macaulay Culkin), an eight year old boy who is left behind by his family on their trip to France over Christmas. Culkin's intelligence, creativity and wit is responsible for outsmarting the burglars, and continuing to entertain and charm audiences alike.

5. The Santa Clause

Tim Allen's transformation into Santa Clause wouldn't be possible without the power of belief from his son, who never doubts him. This film shows that "seeing isn't believing, believing is seeing".

6. The Family Stone

The Family Stone entertains from beginning to end, with a story that follows an unapologetic, outspoken family over christmas. The uncomfortable, unexpected and touching events that occur make this hilarious film one to watch.

7. Miracle on 34th Street

The spirit of christmas cannot be denied in Miracle on 34th Street, where even the biggest non-believers believe in the spirit of santa clause.

8. Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

An "ugly duckling" film about embracing each and every person's unique qualities. This touching story continues to warm hearts.

9. A Christmas Carol

This film holds fond memories as an annual production by each grade 6 class at my elementary school, and a film that has been reproduced multiple times. This christmas classic never tires.

10. New Years Eve

A new holiday film, filled with tangled story lines. This one is on my list to see. Does it measure up?

What are your holiday classics?

Top 10 Going Out Essentials

2011-12-15T11:10:00.000-08:00

1. Do your research

Look into where you are going ahead of time! Knowing the location, dress code, and cover will help determine how you will get there, what to wear, and how much you should budget.

2. Bring your cash

Head to the bank before a night out! Budget the amount you plan to spend, based on cover, number of drinks, and transportation.

3. Make small change

Ensure you have small change if you plan to split a cab with friends. This helps to ensure everything is divided evenly.

4. Set a spending limit

Once you have an idea of the venue, your mode of transportation and cover, decide how much additional money you want to spend. Carry this amount (and a bit extra, just in case) to keep in your budget.

5. Call ahead

Call the venue to inquire about the guest list, or the time you should be at the bar. This will help you estimate what time to arrive at the bar, and shortens the wait time. Also, in some cases, it eliminates cover.

6. Walk/ride transit

Before you go out, map out your route to your destination, using mapquest or public transit trip planner (such as the ttc). Help to minimize the costs associated with a night out.

*Trip planner often provides a route that minimizes walking. Get creative and design a route that combines both, which may be more convenient!

7. Across the shoulder purse

A practical and stylish investment, so you're free to dance, drink and never worry about your purse.

Coach

8. Be comfortable and appropriate

Decide on an outfit, once you know where you are going. A comfortable outfit (and shoes) are an essential part of the night, so you won't be distracted or constantly readjusting.

9. Charge your phone

It is important to remain in contact with friends you go out with, hence why it is also important to charge your phone. Ensure you call or text a friend (if you go home separately) to let them know you have arrived home safely.

10. Read reviews

Unsure of where to go, or the reputation of a certain spot? Check out Yelp for information on the venue, and reviews from bar goers, so you know you're picking the right place.

What are your going out essentials?

Top 10 Homemade Gifts

2011-12-07T12:37:00.000-08:00

1. Photo calendar

Create a calendar full of his or her favourite memories! Choose the right format and size from Blacks! This gift is meaningful and practical.

2. Baked goods

No one can resist homemade baked goods over the holidays! From pies and shortbread, to rice crispy squares or chocolate bark, the possibilities are endless. Try adding some red and green chocolate, candy or sprinkles to make it festive!

3. Personalized pillow

Turn any image or letter, into a pillow!

Here's how:

Scan or upload image onto computer.
Visit Spoonflower and select "create custom fabric". Include a half-inch border around the image for seam allowance.
Order fabric (a linen cotton canvas "fat quarter") and cut a same size piece of baking fabric (i.e. linen or broad cloth).
Pin the fabrics together, right sides facing. Stitch around the pillow along the seam allowance, leaving a four inch wide opening along one side.
Use small scissors to clip the corners. Turn pillow right side out.
Push out corners, iron out wrinkles, and stuff with loose fibrefill stuffing before blind-stitching the opening closed.

4. Painted pottery

Create a piece of dish ware, or a christmas ornament. The Clay Room, Crockadoodle, and Colour Me Mine are some locations to get you started. Try using Google to find other convenient locations near you.

Ladybug bowl set

5. Coffee table book

Make a personalized coffee table book, with Blurb. Choose a theme that is meaningful to the recipient, and consider adding a mix of images and words!

5. Baking ingredients

The perfect gift for the avid baker. Add all dry ingredients of your favourite holiday recipe to a mason jar. Attach a note detailing instructions and quantities for wet ingredients. Add a piece of fabric, bow or ribbon to make the jar more festive.

7. Crochet

Learn how with your friends, relatives or even youtube! Make someone a scarf, headband, blanket, or any other item you can think of!

8. Homemade tea

Create your own loose leaf tea!

Chai loose leaf tea recipe (no caffeine)

Cinnamon sticks
Dehydrated ginger (found at any loose leaf tea store)
Whole cloves
Cardamom seeds

Decide the quantities of each of the above, based on desired flavour, amount and cost. Combine in a grinder and blend. Put the blended mixture into a small jar, and add festive decor, if desired.

*This gift pairs nicely with a mug, tea infuser, or Ontario honey.

9. Recipe book

A list of recipes may be helpful for a passionate cook, or even a beginner looking for quick recipe ideas! Use your own recipes or ask a friend! Add colour and creativity to make the book special and unique.

10. Magnets

Turn your favourite small item, into a magnet! For example, a watch face, or anything that is easily mounted on the refrigerator.

Here's how:

Place the item face down.
Apply hot glue to the black magnet rims, which can be purchased at Walmart.
Press the magnets against the item of your choice. Let dry for five minutes.

What are your homemade gift ideas?

Top 10 Holiday "To Dos"

2011-11-29T19:42:00.000-08:00

1. Attend One of a Kind Christmas Show & Sale

This event includes a diverse group of artists and craftspeople selling handcrafted food, clothing, jewellery, accessories, home and outdoor decor, and much more. Great for personal shopping or gift giving!

2. Make something sweet

The holidays would be incomplete without them! Holiday treats can always be stored around the house (or in the freezer), offered at holiday gatherings, or given away as gifts. Here are two of my favourite recipes:

Double Chocolate Treasures

2 cups chocolate chips

1 cup butter

3/4 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups quick oats

1 1/2 cups flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup icing sugar

1 package holiday m&ms or your favourite holiday candy

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Melt 1 cup chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in eggs, vanilla and melted chocolate. Combine dry ingredients, except for the icing sugar. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the blended mixture. Stir in remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in powdered sugar, coating heavily. Place 1 m&m on the top of each ball. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool and enjoy!

*Store in an air tight container and consume within 4 days. Freeze to sustain freshness, if desired, and take out in small batches.

Chocolate Chip Shortbread

1 cup butter

1 cup white sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

2 1/2 cups cake and pastry flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven at 350 degrees F. Cream butter and sugar together. Add vanilla and egg; mix well. Add flour and baking powder; mix again. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread in 1 or 2 pans to desired thickness. Bake for 30 minutes.

*Store in an air tight container and eat within 4 days. Freeze to sustain freshness, if desired, and take out in small batches.

3. Make something salty

Baby ritz bits turn into a festive, holiday snack, with this easy-to-make "Cocktail Snack". A delicious hors d'oeuvre, snack food, or gift!

Mix the following:

3/4 cup oil (i.e. olive oil, safflower oil)

1 tbsp dill weed

1/2 tbsp garlic powder

1 package hidden valley french onion dressing

Pour over 1 package of bite size ritz bits. Leave overnight. Serve and enjoy!

4. Visit Snakes and Lattes

Mix up your coffee routine! Snakes and Lattes offers food and beverages, with an endless number of games to play, so you're never bored! Call ahead to book a reservation.

5. Skate at Nathan Phillips Square

Going skating at Nathan Phillips Square is a must! Bring your skates or rent! It's a fun way to spend your day (or evening) with friends and be in the outdoors.

6. Warm up with a hot drink

Keep warm with a tea, or locally made hot apple cider. Or create your own hot cocoa, minimizing preservatives and artificial chemicals.

2 heaping tbsp cocoa powder

1 mugs of hot liquid (water, milk, soy or almond milk etc.)

1 tbsp honey

Sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg

Add cocoa powder to a mug. Add 1/2 a mugs worth of hot liquid. Stir until cocoa has dissolved. Fill mug with remainder of hot liquid. Add honey and stir. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired!

7. Watch a holiday classic

Miracle on 34th Street, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Christmas Carol, White Christmas, Home Alone, the list goes on! Spend an evening watching your favourite holiday film!

8. Attend an event in the city

Toronto's city website lists a series of events happening year round, with a special section on celebrations/holidays. Here are the ones that caught my attention:

Window Wonderland
Cavalcade of Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Berczy Park
Lowe's Toronto Christmas Market
Photorama 2011
Holiday Art Market

9. Ski or snowboard

Hills in Ontario are worth the visit! With multiple ski clubs around Ontario, there is a convenient spot for you! Carpool with a group of friends, or use the Grey Hound, travelling from Toronto to Blue Mountain and Horse Shoe Valley Ski Resort.

*Access to the ski club may vary based on starting location.

10. Treat yourself at Winterlicious

Although a bit premature, Winterlicious offers price fixed menus at a variety of restaurants. Find an appealing cuisine and treat yourself!

How will you spend your holiday?

Top 10 Interview Essentials

2011-11-23T11:30:00.000-08:00

1. Choose the right outfit

Choose an outfit that you feel your best in. The statement you want to make in your interview should match your appearance. If you look polished and put together, you will project professionalism and confidence at first glance.

2. Purchase a blazer

A well fitted blazer exudes professionalism, commands respect and can be paired with multiple garments in your wardrobe. Consider how you plan to wear it (i.e. open, closed or both), prior to picking your size.

*Start with a black blazer. Then consider expanding your wardrobe with grey, brown, charcoal or something more colourful.

Blazer, Talula

3. Be appropriate

There are numerous dos and dont's of what is considered interview appropriate.

Here are my lists:

Dos

Blazer

Button down shirt, Artisan (Australia)

Dress pans, Club Monaco

Pencil skirt, Club Monaco

Button down shirt

Dress pants

Knee length pencil skirt

Dress, Lush

Belt, Artisan (Australia)

Knee length dress

Belt

Scarf

Flats

Understated heels

Colourful handbag

Don'ts

Leggings

Jeans

T shirt

Sneakers

Rain boots

For additional items, use your best judgement!

4. Incorporate colour

Add a pop of colour into an element (or two) of your outfit. Make a statement with your hand bag, button down shirt, belt, scarf, or nail polish.

Flats, Bloch

Scarf, Michael Kors

Nail polish, OPI Big Apple Red

Bag, Jinjer (Blue Mountain Village)

Belt, Artisan (Australia)

5. Create a clean look

Have your hair off of your face, and minimize frizziness. Simple eyeliner, with some mascara and blush is appropriate, and creates a fresh faced, natural look.

6. Do your research

Know the name and mission of the organization, the title of the position you are applying for, the name of the hiring manager, and what the job involves. Pay attention to key details found within the job description and qualifications, and shape your answers accordingly.

7. Prepare their questions, and your answers

Brainstorm questions that you could be asked, and how you will answer them, to provide well thought out responses at the time of your interview.

Consider the following questions:

What strengths do you possess that would contribute to this position?

Why are you interested in this position?

What experiences have prepared you to be successful in this role?

What is something that makes you uncomfortable?

What is a quality you wish you had?

What is a weakness you possess?

*Employers appreciate honesty, but always end the statement with something optimistic and positive i.e. I may come across more reserved at times, but when I am passionate about the subject I am discussing, I find it easier to overcome this tendency.

Consider the following scenario questions:

If a volunteer does not show up for his or her shift, what do you do?

If you have been given multiple deadlines, how do you prioritize?

If a volunteer is nervous about an upcoming event, how will you proceed?

8. Prepare your questions

By asking one or two questions at the end of your interview, you demonstrate that you have a vested interest in the organization or company, and in the position. Write down three or four questions, in case it is covered during your interview.

Sample questions

Who will I be reporting to?

What is a typical day in this role?

What are the career progression possibilities for this position?

9. Bring your cover letter, resume and references

Demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are well prepared and organized! Have your cover letter, resume and references each printed on a separate sheet of paper, and provide accordingly.

*Include your reference's name, the organization or company they are associated with (consistent with what is outlined on your resume), business telephone number, and email. Ensure you have their permission to do so.

10. Follow up

Call the hiring manager a few days after your interview to see where they are at in the process. Ask them for feedback on how your interview went. This provides an opportunity to improve how you conduct yourself in future interviews, and again, shows the hiring manager that you have a vested interest in the organization or company, and in the position.

What are your interview essentials?

Top 10 Ways To Budget

2011-11-17T09:31:00.001-08:00

1. Record expenses

Keep track of what you spend! Know where your money is going. Make note of which expenses can be cut.

2. Categorize

Separate your expenses into the categories that pertain to you on a monthly basis. I divide mine into cash (debit and cash expenses), entertainment ("wants"), transportation, and visa.

Examples

• Cash: hair cut, birthday present

• Entertainment: movie, meal out

• Transportation: subway fare, gas money

• Visa: clothing, shoes

Other categories to consider: cell phone bill, gym membership

3. Decide your essentials

Separate what you need to spend (i.e. living expenses) from what you want to spend (i.e. entertainment, clothing etc.). This is especially helpful to see which expenses need to be cut.

4. Research before purchase

Consider all options when it comes to technological purchases, clothing, memberships etc. Check online or in store to ensure you are making a cost effective choice.

5. Save receipts

Do this in order to record expenses, and in the case you decide to return or exchange your purchase.

6. Cross reference

File your receipts and cross reference your expenses with your visa statement. Pay attention to possible errors.

7. Consider cost effective forms of transportation

Walking, biking, and public transit offer cost effective ways to get around. Use mapquest or trip planner on the public transit website in your designated city, like the TTC, to get to your destination.

*Load a PRESTO card to use multiple forms of public transit so you never have to worry about finding exact change!

8. Save for choice purchases

If you are looking to purchase something substantial, set aside a set amount each month in order to save. Make the purchase without making a dent in your bank account.

9. Create a savings account

Set aside a certain amount of money every paycheque to keep in a savings account. Also consider investing your money to expand your bank account.

10. Be creative

Add to your account! Use social media, craigslist, or kijiji to sell unwanted items. Or save your money! Barter, by exchanging services (i.e. cover reception in exchange for yoga classes). The possibilities are endless!

How do you budget?

Top 10 Beauty Care Secrets

2011-11-09T11:06:00.000-08:00

1. Use shampoo without sulphate

Did you know the sulphate that is found in shampoo is really just a bubble? This chemical strips your hair of its natural oils and can lead to frizziness, dryness, dullness and colour fade. Consider a shampoo without sulphate, like Live Clean, available at Shoppers Drug Mart. Give it a chance! It may take up to two weeks for your hair to adjust to the change.

2. Minimize shampoo use

Limit the number of shampoos per week. Every other day max (shampoo without sulphate). Every two weeks max (with sulphate).

3. Add volume

Flip your hair forward to wash out shampoo and conditioner to add more volume and lift to your hair!

4. Use product, post shower

Consider using a leave-in conditioner after your shower to add moisture to your hair, particularly if it is dry. Comb through hair for even distribution.

5. Minimize straightening

Straightening your hair contributes to dryness and the development of split ends. Consider wearing your hair curly with a product from the Curly Hair Institute. Or try wearing your hair naturally, braided or in a bun.

6. Get frequent hair cuts

If you are particularly prone to getting split ends, and straighten your hair often, have your hair trimmed every 8 weeks. Your hair should make a "U shape" at the back.

7. Wash, moisturize, repeat!

Washing your face in the morning and at night with the appropriate product(s) will help to maintain clear skin. Also, ensure to take off all make up at night. Use an appropriate moisturizer after each face wash.

8. Choose toxin free make up

Natural make up products are a much healthier option for your skin and body. The Big Carrot in Toronto offers a wide selection of companies and products at reasonable price points. Their knowledgeable professionals will ensure that you find the appropriate product, based on skin, colouring, price range, and any other criteria you might have (i.e. local, organic). Shoppers Drug Mart also carries a line or organic products by Physicians Formula.

9. Eat and drink well

You are what you eat! Did you know a lack of protein in your diet will affect the colour of your hair? Lower amounts of protein will change the colour from black to orangey red. Ensure you incorporate an adequate amount of protein into your diet! Also, drink lots of water to maintain the health of your skin!

10. Talk to a professional

Before deciding on a face wash or moisturizer, talk to a professional about what products are appropriate for you and when you should use them. Be skeptical! Don't just buy into the success stories. You may be unknowingly harming your skin.

What are your beauty secrets?

Top 10 Breakfast Tips

2011-11-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

1. Eat it!

You don't want to miss the opportunity to give your metabolism a kick start in the morning! Research has shown that eating breakfast is beneficial for concentration and weight control.

2. Sweeten with honey, maple syrup and stevia

Consider using each of the following, in moderation, to sweeten any part of your breakfast (i.e. coffee, cereal, yogurt, etc.)

Honey has been found to contain traces of minerals, as well as vitamin B, C, D, and E.
Maple syrup has been found to contain potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese and amino acids.

*Note honey and maple syrup can be bought locally!

Stevia is an herb that the body does not metabolize, hence why it contains no calories. It is important to understand the properties that certain sweeteners contain, and consider the impact on your health. Visit healthy net to learn more.

Honey, maple syrup, stevia

3. Choose the right peanut butter or almond butter

These nut butters contain "good fats" and are high in protein. Choose a product that contains ONLY peanuts or almonds. Ensure it does not contain hydrogenated oil, since the process of hydrogenation alters the chemical structure of the product.

*Try this power breakfast recipe!

1 or 2 tbsp of a nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)

~1 tbsp of ground flax seeds

~1 tbsp of ground chia seeds

~1 tbsp hemp seeds

~1 tbsp sesame seeds

~1 tbsp of unsweetened shredded coconut

~1 tbsp raisins

A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, sometimes both.

For added sweetness, 1 tbsp carob chips

To make "energy balls", create the same mixture, minus the coconut. Roll into balls. Roll them in the coconut to prevent from sticking. Refrigerate or freeze. Take out at your convenience!

4. Choose whole grains

Check the ingredients! You want the first ingredient to be "whole wheat," "whole meal," or "whole corn". These are indicators of products that contain wheat germ; a source of fibre and antioxidants.

*Did you know companies in Canada can label a product as "whole wheat" with up to 70% of the germ removed?

Multiseed Rye Loaf; The Market; Meaford, Ontario

5. Use natural yogurt

Sweeten with a spoonful of maple syrup, or combine with apple sauce. Read the ingredients! You want to minimize the number of ingredients that appear unfamiliar or difficult to pronounce, which are often added chemicals.

6. Choose a filling cereal

Start your day with a bowl of oatmeal or granola. Choose oatmeal WITHOUT artificial flavours. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup. This source of soluble fibre is slowly digested, stabilizes blood-glucose levels and lowers blood cholesterol.

Also consider Rose Reisman's light nut and dried fruit granola recipe.

7. Add fruit

Fruit is a source of carbohydrates and fibre, which will add sweetness and flavour to your breakfast. Consider cutting up a banana on toast with peanut butter! Add mixed berries to your oatmeal! Or take an apple with you if you're on the go.

8. Add nuts

Add nuts to your breakfast or take a handful with you on the go!

Here's what you should know:

Almonds contain vitamin E, dietary fibre, B vitamins, minerals, monounsaturated fat, and have cholesterol lowering properties.
Cashews contain monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat.
Peanuts contain fibre, magnesium, vitamin E, manganese, among other nutrients, and are high in protein.
Pecans contain protein, unsaturated fats, and omega-6 fatty acids.

Most importantly, they will all help to maintain fullness!

9. Make a smoothie

My favourite smoothies are prepared with frozen berries.

To prepare one smoothie (approximately 1.25 cups):

1 cup frozen fruit

1 whole ripe banana (if desired)

~1/2 cup of natural yogurt

~1/3 cup soy milk/almond milk/rice milk

A sprinkle of almonds

A sprinkle of wheatgerm

Alter the quantities to create your desired amount and consistency!

10. Pre prepare

If you know your mornings are rushed, have something ready to grab and go! Build your smoothie the night before, or create a trail mix of nuts, dried fruit, raisons etc.

What are your tips on eating a healthy breakfast?

Top 10 Ways To Be Active (and Stay Active)

2011-10-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

1. Choose a consistent time

Try to plan your work outs for the same time each day. Working out will become part of your routine and help you to maintain an active lifestyle.

2. Create action plans

Make a goal (i.e. loose 5 lbs), but most importantly, decide HOW you will accomplish it!

*Tip: Use the FITT principles as a guide. Frequency of workouts (# of workouts/week), intensity (light, moderate, vigorous), time (how long), type (what kind of exercise).

Example:

F: 4 times per week

I: Moderate intensity

T: 45 minutes/workout session

T: Jogging and/or cycling

3. Do morning workouts, when possible

If you have the option, do your workout in the morning. You are more likely to make excuses to miss it later in the day.

4. Track your progress

Post workout, write down what you did. The more specific the better! At the bare minimum, mark an "X" on the calendar for every workout you complete. Look back and be proud of what you have accomplished. Look forward to future workouts with more confidence.

5. Make activity part of your routine

Can't find a block of time to be physically active? Build it into your day! Get off the bus one or two stops early and walk! Take the stairs instead of the elevator! Make it your goal to complete 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day, in at least 10 minute bouts.

6. Plan active get togethers

Be active when you get together with your friend(s). For instance, get coffee "to go" and walk!

7. Rely on your friends and family

Ask friends and family to play a role in your active lifestyle! Their encouragement, knowledge, companionship or practical assistance (i.e. driving you to the gym) may be what you need to be active and stay active!

8. Anticipate obstacles

Anticipate a day when your workout plan falls through. What could the reason be? How will you cope with it? Think about barriers that could come up before they happen! This will help to maintain your active lifestyle. Don't let yourself relapse into a sedentary living pattern! Get back to your workout routine the next possible day!

9. Buddy up

Join a group work out class or find someone to work out with! This will strengthen your commitment to being consistently active. It is also an opportunity to socialize. Still, be confident that you are able to be active independently.

10. Use your resources

Canada's Physical Activity Guide provides information on the benefits of being physically active, suggestions on the amount of physical activity you should complete, exercise intensities and more. Use this knowledge and apply it to you! Use health care professionals for more individualized information. Use online resources to track your progress.

How do you stay active?

Top 10 Decorating Tips

2011-10-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

1. Draw inspiration

Inspiration can come from photographs, nature, pieces of art, or even fashion. Starting with this will help to create a colour pallet for the space and (hopefully) make it easier to decorate.

Sedona, Arizona

2. Borrow ideas

Decorating experts, like Nate Berkas, or as seen on HGTV, offer inspiration, ideas, and photos that can be used to start or continue your decorating process.

3. Be patient

Decorating can be, and often is, a long process. It may take time to find the right elements for your space. Buy something when you know it is the right fit.

4. Decide on a vibe

Sleek and sophisticated? Bright and vibrant? Tranquil and relaxing? Benjamin Moore offers advice on how to create the feeling you want your room to offer.

A warm, inviting, country feel
My family schoolhouse

5. Choose colour last

When picking out paint colours, consider existing elements in the space. These items include (but are not limited to) flooring, furniture, curtains, or lighting. Certain elements, like flooring, may be more permanent than others, which may dictate your colour choices.

6. Mix old and new

Pieces from the past add individuality and character to a space. This antique bed frame complements the shape of this modern country lamp.

Bed Frame, Au Lit Fine Linens Outlet

Lamp, Thornbury, Ontario

An antique dresser updated with a fresh coat of paint and new drawer handles.

7. Consider your lighting

How you see a colour in the paint store often changes in other spaces. Bring home multiple samples, in the same and different colours, and test its appearance on your walls. Test its appearance in natural light, under different weather conditions, at different times of day and with room lighting.

8. Test out colours

If you are unsure of whether a certain colour is appropriate for a space, buy a small paint sample to test how it looks. This should make you confident in your colour selection.

*Colour Tip: Benjamin Moore's "Historical Colours" and "Designer Classics" have more layers and interest, than "Affinity" or "Colour Preview," and pair nicely with "Off-White Colours".

9. Use pops of colour

Pops of colour add interest to a room and can be easily modified over time, if your taste changes. Consider using colourful cushions, lamp shades, throw blankets, or an accent wall to add colour to a space.

10. Bring the outside in

Plants are an easy way to bring life into a space and help to purify the air. If you're looking for something lower maintenance, fake plants are a good approach to add colour.

Plant life in a Toronto apartment

How would you decorate your space?

Top 10 Ways To Build Your Wardrobe

2011-10-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

1. Start with neutral colours

Neutral garments offer the most versatility, since they complement any colour. They are classic pieces that make any outfit look put together.

2. Use pops of colour

Nothing completes a neutral outfit like a pop of colour. One to two colours against a "plain jane" outfit commands attention, without looking busy. Consider using colour in your belts, shoes, purses, jewellery and scarves.

3. Know when to buy something

It is important to be selective about what you buy. Consider whether it is a need or a want. And consider whether it is a trend or timeless.

4. Look for staple tank tops

Tank tops can be worn year round, if you find the right one. Consider its fit and fabric. Consider if it can be layered. And consider if it can be worn on multiple occasions with multiple pieces in your wardrobe.

5. Choose pieces that are versatile

Consider existing pieces in your wardrobe. Consider whether it can be worn year round. And consider whether it complements your body type.

6. Be confident

Never buy something you aren't comfortable wearing.

7. Visit multiple stores

If you are searching for something specific, visit multiple stores. Until you can't leave a store without something, go to the next. Be patient, not impulsive.

8. Be thrifty about trends

Test out trends at lower price points, in case it no longer appeals to you the following season. For example, consider a denim tunic from Joe Fresh; $29.

9. Ask a friend

If you're unsure about how something looks, ask for someone else's opinion. It is also helpful if you can return the garment you purchase so you can try it on with existing items in your wardrobe.

10. Clean your closet

Get rid of what you no longer wear. Consider organizing a clothing swap with your friends. Consider selling them online using Facebook or Twitter. Consider selling them at consignment stores. Or consider donating to women's shelters.

How else can you build your wardrobe?