Monday, December 14, 2015

Exhibit: The Ruins of Pompeii at the ROM in Toronto!

ROM's Pompeii: In the Shadow of the Volcano Exhibition Review

I finally got the chance to visit ROM's Pompeii: In the Shadow of the Volcano a few weeks ago and I'm still overwhelmed at the amount of information that was given throughout the exhibit. But it did bring back amazing memories of the day I spent wandering around the ruins of Pompeii in Italy over seven years ago.

Pompeii: In the Shadow of the Volcano Exhibit at the ROM in Toronto, Royal Ontario Museum, Exhibition, history, culture, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps

I always find this issue with ROM's major exhibits: information overload. Way too many placards and information panels! So many that it distracts from the object and pieces that I'm looking at.

Sunday, December 13, 2015

Event: Cocktail Fight & Giveaway!

Respect the Agave Tequila Cocktail Battle Event Preview & A Chance to Win Tickets

Start your Christmas holiday week off right with a tequila battle royale! It's going down December 21 at Addisons downtown Toronto and hosted by Siempre Tequila. The event is the first of a nation-wide series of tequila-only bartender competitions.

Respect the Agave, Cocktail Battle, Tequila, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs

Local bartenders bring their own tools, ingredients and flair, but also have to use the secret ingredients in their 'black box' which can only be opened seconds before the competition!

Friday, December 11, 2015

Happening Weekend: Lights, Camera, Christmas!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for December 11 - 13, 2015

It's that time again - the weekend. There are not many left for 2015 - 2 more after this one, so try to enjoy them while you can before the new year and cold weather comes.


Here are my top picks for weekend happenings and events in Toronto:

Sunday, December 06, 2015

P.s!: Tis The Season!

November Blog Roundup & December Preview

The holiday season is upon us! I know it's hard to believe but Christmas is less than 20 days away and then New Year's Eve and suddenly it's 2016. I have waaaay too many things to get done before all that happens and November was not the best month for me. I hurt my left arm and find it difficult to use it sometimes. I've also been sick for the past week, which is the reason I'm behind on my blog posts for November (so sorry). So not only do I need to play catch-up, but I need to fit in all the fun and craziness December has to offer.

November, Blog, Roundup, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Events, Lifestyle, Culture, Lifestyle, Happenings

From Christmas shopping, working my six jobs, and all the events I have to attend, the next few weeks are going to wild!

Monday, November 30, 2015

Personal Care Review: My Secret to Feeling Fresh All Day Long!

Secret Clinical Antiperspirant Clear Gel Review

For the past several weeks, my life has been pretty crazy. Between spending time with my family and friends, scheduling some alone time with my new beau, working six jobs (yes six) which includes keeping up with my blog posts, making some play time with my energetic kitty, and still trying to find the time (and will) to go to the gym, the last thing on my jam-packed mind is my antiperspirant. I just don't have the time to stop and smell the roses, let alone making sure I still smell rosy.

Secret Clinical Antiperspirant Clear Gel, review, bzzagent, beauty, fresh, clean, scent, stress, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario,canada

So I was super excited when BzzAgent sent me a trial size of Secret Clinical Antiperspirant Clear Gel to test out, thinking that my stressful lifestyle is the perfect test to see if it can really last as long as it says it can.

Friday, November 20, 2015

Happening Weekend: Art, Wine & Shopping!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for November 20 - November 22, 2015

I'm so excited it's the weekend. With all my jobs  getting busier with the impending holiday season (yes all - I have 6), the weekends are becoming more filled with a variety of lists. If you haven't crossed of everyone on your Christmas gift list, this weekend is perfect to start your holiday shopping (there are only 5 weekends left before the big day). And if you get your To Do list completed, there are plenty of art events and happenings in Toronto this weekend to keep you busy.


Here are my top picks for fabulous events and fun things to do in the city:

Monday, November 16, 2015

Exhibit: Black Butterflies, Cityscapes & James Joyce!

The Power Plant's Black Cloud, Invention, I SEE WORDS, I SEE VOICES Exhibitions Review

I was feeling a little worn out from my hectic week so I decided to take a much decided art therapy day and visit the new fall exhibits at The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery at The Harbourfront in Toronto. I got a quick preview of the three exhibitions running now during Nuit Blanche, but because of the crowds and early morning time, I knew I wanted to go back and take my time to really enjoy them.

Black Cloud by Carlos Amorales at The Power Plant Contemporary Gallery in Toronto, art, artmatters, culture, the purple scarf, melanieps, ontario, canada, moths, butterflies
Black Cloud, 2007/2015 by Carlos Amorales
The three exhibitions are Carlos Amorales: Black Cloud, 2007/2015, Dora Garcia: I SEE WORDS, I HEAR VOICES and Mark Lewis: Invention.

Friday, November 13, 2015

Happening Weekend: A Magical Time!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for November 13 - 15, 2015

I'm getting busier and busier and this week was no exception. This can only mean one thing: the Holiday Season has begun! And although chestnuts aren't roasting on a fire or it's a winter wonderland outside yet, this weekend in Toronto will sure put you in the holiday mood.

Happening, weekend, events, santa claus parade, toronto, the purplescarf, melanieps

Here are my top picks for events happening around the city this weekend:

Sunday, November 08, 2015

Makeup Review: Covergirl Lashblast Fight Club - Fusion vs.Volume!

Covergirl Lashblast Fusion & Volume Mascaras Review

I am a mascara addict. It's a problem and I'm no closer to recovery, which I'm fine with. I love mascara, as my past makeup reviews can attest too. So when BzzAgent asked me to review one of four different CoverGirl Lashblast mascaras, I emailed a 'hell ya!' (really, but you get my drift:)

Makeup, Review, Covergirl, Lashblast, Volume, Length, Blasting, Fusion, Beauty, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs, Eyelashes, Buzzagent

The mascara I chose to review was Covergirl Lashblast Fusion Mascara because it was the only one of the four types to boast volume AND length (length is key for me). I also happened to have had the Covergirl Lashblast Volume Blasting Mascara in my "to be reviewed" beauty drawer - probably was a gift in a swag bag that I received. So I tried out both of these mascaras and I definitely liked one more than the other. Let the fight club commence!

Friday, November 06, 2015

Happening Weekend: The Funny, The Dead & The Free!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for November 6 - 8, 2015

I'm so excited it's finally Friday! I don't know about you but I found this work week to be extra long. I'm looking forward to catching up with my long 'To Do List' which includes getting out and enjoying some of the great events and happenings Toronto has to offer.

Happening, Events, Weekend, Culture, Andy Warhol, Toronto, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs, Ontario, Canada

Here are my top picks for cool happenings around the city!:

Thursday, November 05, 2015

P.s!: Beautiful November!

October Blog Roundup & November Preview

It's hard to believe it's already November especially since the last few days felt like Spring outside. With my schedule packed full of personal and professional events and happenings, October passed by so quickly! And I had so many fabulous highlights from the previous month.


One of my favourite moments from October has to be cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays as they kept winning game after game on their road to the World Series. Although they were eventually eliminated, it was still thrilling to watch them get so far and see the city of Toronto and fans from across the nation and the globe Come Together to cheer them on!

Friday, October 30, 2015

Happening Weekend: Zombies, Ghouls & Pumpkins!

Toronto Halloween Weekend Events Listing 2015

This weekend is going to be an outlandish weekend full of zombies, superheros, celebrity look-a-likes, and everything in between. Happy Halloween! And for those who are not into the holiday, there are plenty of things to do in Toronto completely unrelated.


Here are my top picks for events and happenings in Toronto for Halloween Weekend!:

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Skincare Review: Clean & Clear Skin!

Clean & Clear Oil-Free Skincare Routine Review

I was fortunate to be blessed with such fantastic skin that most people are shocked to hear my age (thanks mom). But because of this, I didn't really take care of my skin or follow a beauty routine when I was a teenager. Unfortunately ever since my twenties, I have struggled with large blemishes that appear out of the blue and take FOREVER to disappear. And now in my late thirties, this dilemma is not only still here, but has become increasingly embarrassing when dealing with the public and going out on dates (maybe this is reason people think I'm younger than I am?). So when I had the opportunity to test out Clean & Clear's Oil-free skincare routine, I jumped at the chance.

Clean & Clear Oil-free Skincare Routine: Morning Burst Shine Control Facial Cleanser, Essentials Deep Cleaning Astringent, Hydrating Gel Moisturizer, Oil Absorbing Sheets, beauty, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada, review

Who knows, maybe skincare products I should've used when I was a teen, will work now that I'm an adult?

Monday, October 26, 2015

Exhibit: Pop Art Brought to The Popular Masses!

Andy Warhol: Revisited Exhibition Review

Over the past year, pop art has exploded onto the Canadian art scene with a resurgence that I haven't noticed in a longtime. From Douglas Coupland's simultaneous solo exhibitions at MOCCA and the ROM earlier this year to the amazing Jean-Michel Basquait exhibit at the AGO, it feels like pop art has gained popularity again. And for the past few months, Toronto has been home to Canada's largest Andy Warhol exhibition, Andy Warhol: Revisited, at a pop-up art gallery near the corner of Bay and Bloor streets downtown Toronto.

Andy Warhol: Revisited exhibit in Toronto, culture, exhibition, revolver gallery, paintings,ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps, marilyn monroe
Marilyn Monroe (selected works), 1967
I finally had the opportunity to visit Andy Warhol: Revisited and was transported to Warhol's world, if only for a short time.

Friday, October 23, 2015

Happening Weekend: Lightsabers, Beer & Art!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for October 23 - 25, 2015

The last few weeks have been really busy for me and this weekend is no exception. With a weekend jam-packed full of events squeezed between personal time with friends and my computer, I may need another weekend to recover from this one. And it all starts tonight as I   with thousands of Torontians) cheer on the Blue Jays in the hope that they keep the World Series dream alive!


Here are my top picks for amazing events happening in Toronto this weekend:

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Toronto Artist Spotlight: The Funny Man Who Just Wants To Be Loved!

Canadian Comedian David Andrew Brent Profile

I love to laugh. I love to cry. So when I first saw Toronto-based comedian David Andrew Brent's stand-up act at the recent Just For Laughs Festival in Toronto, I knew I found a kindred spirit. You may have seen Brent in his viral Arnold Schwarzenegger impersonation video that has garnered almost 2 million views on You Tube or caught one his stand-up comedy acts at local clubs or more recently, during the Just For Laughs Festival.
 
David Andrew Brent - Toronto Comedian Profile, artist, spotlight, comedy, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanie.ps

I was lucky enough to catch Brent's feature-length act, Ricky Gervais at JFL42 and had the opportunity to meet the funny man himself as well as ask him some questions about his inspiration, his new company Brickworks Entertainment and his future plans.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Skincare Review: Sleeping Last Night (and Day) Away with Laneige!

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask Review

I've never tried a sleeping mask before, I was always afraid of the mess the mask might leave on my pillow and how uncomfortable it might make me feel and I would never get my beauty sleep. That's why when I received a complimentary Laneige Water Sleeping Mask for testing purposes from Influenster, I was a quite skeptical if I would like it.

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, beauty, skincare, review, facial, soft, skin, sleep, toronto, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanieps

All my fears were put to rest, quite literally, the first time I used this fabulous product!

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Exhibit: Photos of the World!

World Press Photo 2015 Photo Contest Exhibition

For almost 60 years, World Press Photo has been hosting a photojournalism contest where they have captured the best and worst our world and humanity has to offer. A jury selects the best photos to take home the top prizes in several categories and prints of these photos take a world tour with a stop in Toronto.

World Press Photo 2015 Photo Contest Exhibition at Allan Lambert Galleria, Brookfield Place in Toronto, culture, art, artmatters, photography, world, events, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs, Ontario, Canada, Massimo Sestini, Italy
2nd Prize Singles, General News by Massimo Sestini, Italy
The World Press Photo 2015 Photo Contest Exhibition is open to the public for free at The Allan Lambert Galleria at Brookfield Place and I highly recommend a visit.

Friday, October 09, 2015

Happening Weekend: Inside Out and Come Together!

Toronto Thanksgiving Long Weekend Events Listing

This weekend is not only Thanksgiving but it's the last long weekend of the year. I know there is sometimes a long weekend or two around Christmas (not always) but it's usually packed full of holiday craziness that I consider Thanksgiving as the last long weekend of the year. While most people try to spend this weekend with family, I for one am spending it in the city catching up work and things to do around the apartment. I also want to spend some time with some friends and catch some amazing exhibits happening in Toronto, as well as events.


Here are my top picks for events happening this Thanksgiving long weekend in Toronto!:

Thursday, October 08, 2015

Event!: An All-Night Art Party!

Scotiabank Nuit Blanche Toronto Recap

Last Saturday night was one of my favourite annual Toronto events - Scotiabank Nuit Blanche. I have been going to Nuit Blanche since I moved back to Toronto almost eight years ago and it fast became one my never-miss events. It's an all-night celebration of contemporary art and the Toronto itself - two of my favourite things!

Scotiabank Nuit Blanche Toronto 2015, Culture, Art, Artmatters, Contemporary, Installations, All-Night, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs, Ontario, Canada

Over the years, I have seen some amazing installations and some that just made me scratch my head. I always strive to visit at least ten large installations and if I enjoyed half of them, I call the night a success. I usually see more than ten, stopping along my way at small renegade installations that dot the city's major walkways.

Wednesday, October 07, 2015

My Style: Casual Fringe!

Vero Moda Fringe Poncho Casual Outfit

Fringe has been a style trend since the beginning of this year and it doesn't seem to be going away any time soon. Same with distressed denim, every where I look I see jeans with holes and rips in them (much to the dismay of my father:). So I embraced both these trends and created a fun and comfortable look.

M Style!" Vero Moda Poncho, Noisy May Distressed Jeans from Hudson's Bay, Forever 21 Sunglasses, House of Harlow 1960 Clutch, fashion, outfit, ootd, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto, ontario, canada

Most pieces in this outfit are not new and I have featured them in past My Style Posts. The only new piece is the fun fringe Vero Moda poncho I got on sale at Hudson's Bay.

Monday, October 05, 2015

P.s!: Fabulous Fall!

September Blog Roundup & October Preview

Is it just me or has this year flown by?! I can't believe that it's October and Fall is here! This month is packed full of events and happenings not just for me, but for a lot of people. October started off with a bang this past weekend with one of my favourite annual Toronto events, Nuit Blanche. And this coming weekend marks one of the last long weekends of the year, when many people will be getting together with friends and families and celebrating Thanksgiving. And don't forget that the last day of the month, October 31, is Halloween which is a great reason to dress up like a someone (or something) you've always wanted to be.


I had alot of fun throughout September. I got to take my 2 years-old nephew to his first art show at Gladstone Hotel. He was enthralled at all the textile art at the Hard Twist exhibit and he can't wait for me to take him on his next art trip. I also got to see some amazing exhibits at the AGO including Picturing the Americas, which helped me chose my next big travel adventure. And I finally found a beauty product that helped my eyebrows look as beautiful as I always knew they could be.

Friday, October 02, 2015

Happening Weekend: October's White Night!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for October 2 - 4, 2015

It's the first weekend of October and the first one that has some really cool weather (if today is any indication). But don't let the weather stop you from the plenty of amazing events happening in Toronto like one of my all-time favourites -  Nuit Blanche (this will be my seventh year attending). So grab a tuque and a scarf and get out there.

Weekend, event, nuit blanche, toronto, ontario,canada, the purple scarf, melanieps

Here are my top picks for events and happenings in Toronto this weekend!:

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Skincare Review: Deep Down Clean from Biore!

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser Review

For the last few months, I've been using Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser that I received in my Spark Sessions Swag Bag, almost every morning and night as a part of my skincare regimen. Charcoal has been popping up in ingredient lists of many beauty products in North America over the last year. Although it has been a main ingredient for a long time in beauty products in the Asian market, it still is relatively new on this side of the pond.

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser Review, beauty, skincare, facewash, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada

Charcoal is supposed to have excellent absorption properties and help create beautiful clean skin. Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is the first product I've used containing charcoal and it may be my last.

Monday, September 28, 2015

Exhibit: Amazing & Disturbing World of Nuclear Energy!

AGO's Camera Atomica Exhibition Review

The Art Gallery of Ontario continues its 'Year of Photography' with one its latest exhibitions, Camera Atomica. Featuring photographs that encompass the post-war period of the bombings in Japan in 1945 to the Faukushima meltdowns in 2011, Camera Atomica is both amazing and disturbing, touching on issues surrounding nuclear energy through the art of photography.

from Camera Atomica Exhibit at Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, AGO, Nuclear, Weapons, Photography, Meltdown, Photos, Disaster, World War Two, Canada, The Purple Scarf, Culture, Art, Artmatters, Exhibition, Crystal Palace Chandelier, Ken and Julia Yonetani
From Crystal Palace, 2013 by Ken and Julia Yonetani
Over 200 works are represented including both vintage and contemporary photographs taken by a variety of photographers from different fields.

Friday, September 25, 2015

Happening Weekend: Supermoon, Super Dogs & Super Beer!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for September 25 - 27, 2015

It's the first weekend of Fall, and the weather outside in perfect for some great events and happenings across Toronto (fingers crossed:) I know my calendar is jammed packed this weekend!


Here are my top picks for fabulous events and happenings in the city!:

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Makeup Review: Bold & Beautiful Brows from Benefit!

Benefit's Brow Zings Brow Shaping Kit Review

I love beautiful bold eyebrows. They frame the eyes, which is apparently the window to one's soul and is one of my favourite features of a man or woman's face. Since my natural eyebrow hair colour is light, I'm always on the hunt for a product that will not only add natural-looking colour, but help shape them and look as beautiful as know they can be.

Benefit Brow Zings Brow Shaping Kit, Beauty, Review, Eyebrows, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Makeup, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs, Brush, Tweezers

Earlier in the year, I reviewed Benefit's gimme Brow and I really liked it except that it wasn't as precise as I wanted it to be. With Brow Zings, I finally achieved the precise brow arch I always wanted!

Monday, September 21, 2015

Exhibit: Making Memories at Gladstone Hotel's Hard Twist!

Gladstone Hotel's Hard Twist 10: Memory Exhibition Review

Over the weekend, I took my almost three year-old nephew to his first art show - The Hard Twist: Memory exhibition at Gladstone Hotel. I figured a textile exhibit at the cool Gladstone Hotel was safer choice than a pristine gallery full of breakable pieces for his first introduction to the art world. And both my nephew and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit.

Hard Twist 10: Memory textile art exhibit at Gladstone Hotel in Toronto, culture, artmatters, exhibition, event, ontario, canada, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs

I always enjoy the Hard Twist exhibitions. Hard Twist 8 and Hard Twist 9 are two of my favourite exhibits from last year. And it has become an important annual event within the Canadian Textile Art community and a Gladstone Hotel signature event.

Friday, September 18, 2015

Happening Weekend: Last Summer Hurrah!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for September 18 - 20, 2015

It is the last weekend of summer, so get out there and enjoy some of the amazing events taking place across Toronto!


Here are my top picks for events and happenings in the city!:

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Explore Toronto: Visiting Toronto's Past Surrounded by it's Future!

Historic Fort York Review

Several weeks ago I visited Historic Fort York, mainly to see the amazing Gertrude Kearn's Exhibit. While there I decided to tour the Fort's grounds and buildings, something I haven't done since a childhood school trip. And once I entered the grounds, I felt like I was transported back in time.

Historic Fort York downtown Toronto, Canada, War, 1812, 1813, British, American, past, history, explore, travel, tourist, attractions, military, ontario, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps, battle

I'm sure plenty of us who grew up in Toronto or the GTA, had the opportunity to visit Fort York on a school trip, but I highly recommend revisiting it as an adult. I learned more and understood the significance of such an important time in Canadian history, which passed over my adorable 10 years-old head many years ago.

Monday, September 14, 2015

Exhibit: Picturing My Next Travel Adventure!

AGO's Picturing the Americas Exhibition Review

I have traveled all over the world including all three Americas. And I was still in awe of the amazing paintings and artwork at the Art Gallery of Ontario's exhibit Picturing the Americas.


From beautiful depictions of the Canadian wilds to the bloody aftermaths of indigenous wars, Picturing the Americas lets visitors explore lands not yet visited and view familiar places in a new light.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Happening Weekend: Star Gazing!

Toronto Weekend Events Listing for September 11 - 13, 2015

This cool brisk air is a sign that it's the first full weekend in September. Despite the chilly air, it's going to be weekend full of hot events in Toronto.


Here are my top picks for happenings in the city!:

Thursday, September 10, 2015

My Style: Jumping into Fall!

Vero Moda Pants Outfit

It's technically still the summer time until September 23, but the nights and mornings already have that crisp cool feeling; and I'm reaching to grab my jacket and scarf on the way out the door to work. And you know what that means? Time to transition your summer wardrobe into fall.

My Style: Vero Moda pants from Hudson's Bay, Urban Behaviour Tank Top, Marshalls Wedges, Mat and Nat Bag, Shop For Jayu Necklace. Photos by Ardean Peters, hat, accessories, style, fashion, styletips, outfit, OOTD, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto, ontario, canada

Tuesday, September 08, 2015

Event: Break Dancing, Mermaids & Fun at BuskerFest!

Toronto International BuskerFest Event Recap

Two weekends ago one of the best and craziest events in Toronto took place - Toronto International Buskerfest! I have been enjoying this festival for many years and it gets better and better every year!

Toronto International BuskerFest 2015, lifestyle, streetperformers, streetart, acts, epilepsy, festival, event. the purple scarf, melanie.ps, ontario, canada

Toronto International BuskerFest is the largest busker festival in North America and the single-largest fundraiser for Epilepsy Toronto. And this year's festival was just as amazing as last years BuskerFest! I saw some great acts I've seen in previous years and several fabulous new ones. Here are some photos from the day!

Monday, September 07, 2015

P.s!: Cool Season Approaching!

August Blog Roundup & September Preview

I can't believe that the summer is fast coming to an end. Personally this summer season has been one filled with lots of changes in my life. It was filled with so many fun events and moments that I will remember for a long time.


Friday, September 04, 2015

Happening Weekend: Say Goodbye to Summer with a Roar!

Toronto Events Listing for Labour Day Long Weekend

It feels like the summer just began, especially with the heatwave going on in Toronto, but unfortunately this Labour Day long weekend is the unofficial last weekend of the summer (sigh). From watching vintage planes do sky acrobatics to dressing up as your favourite sci-fi character, there are many ways to say goodbye to summer in a big way.


Here are my top picks for amazing events and happenings this long weekend in Toronto!:

Tuesday, September 01, 2015

Haircare Review: Smooth & Sleek Style from TRESemme!

TRESemme Keratin Smooth Haircare System Review

A few months ago I started to do some beauty spring cleaning! Like many people out there, my bedroom and bathroom are exploding with so many beauty products I have been given or bought that I needed to do a beauty cleanse! I was given the TRESemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo, Conditioner, and Heat Activated Treatment in a swag bag from an event I attended (can't remember which event), and I can't believe I waited so long to try this haircare line! I am so pleased with the results!

TRESemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo, Conditioner and Hair Treatment, beauty, review, haircare, sleek, the purple scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada

I have very thick hair which in the summertime heat it feels like it expands to twice it's size. So I was skeptical about TRESemme's claim that "this non-damaging formula will help lock out frizz for 7 days (or 3 washes), giving you gorgeous, salon-smooth hair that lasts through washes."  My skepticism soon faded away!

Friday, August 28, 2015

Happening Weekend: Sunny & Colourful Days!

Toronto Events Listing for August 28 - 30, 2015

It's been such a busy two weeks for me, that I missed last week's Happening Weekend post. So sorry, but life (and sickness) gets in the way sometimes. But this weekend there are plenty of amazing and cool things to do in Toronto, including one of my favourite festivals - BuskerFest! So put on some trendy comfy shoes, pack some snacks and get out there and enjoy the sunny days of summer before they are gone!


Here are my top picks for events and happenings in Toronto!:

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

My Style: Shades of Purple!

Express Purple Skirt Outfit

Even though summer feels like it's winding down, there is still plenty of sunny days ahead that require some fun bright prints (and plenty of purple) to keep the summery spirit going!

My Style: Express Purple Print Skirt, RW & Co. Tank Top, Nice Things Clutch from Heel Boy, Urban Outfitters Shoes, Suzy Shier Flower Necklace, styletips, shopping, clearance, sale, summer, end of season, outfit, ideas, OOTD, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Photo Credit: Ardean Peters

When I first spotted this fabulous purple printed skirt at Express near the beginning of the summer, I fell in love with the colour (of course) and the fun print and sexy fit. And now that it's the end of August, I spotted the skirt drastically reduced in price!

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Event: Feeling Like a Kid Again at FIGMENT!

FIGMENT Toronto Festival Recap

This time in July I was enjoying the beautiful hot sunny weather on Toronto Island while participating in my first FIGMENT Festival with a friend of mine. FIGMENT is a creative arts festival where visitors are encouraged to participate and interact with the art, and it was the perfect way to spend a beautiful summer day!

FIGMENT Art and Culture Festival on Toronto Island, free, fun, family, activity, summer, the purple scarf, melanieps, ontario, canada

Now in its third year in Toronto, FIGMENT is a grassroots effort, organized and run entirely by volunteers and is growing in size and popularity.

Friday, August 14, 2015

Happening Weekend: Open Streets and Closing Ceremonies!

Toronto Events Listing for August 14 - August 16, 2015

I can't believe it's the weekend again! Is it just me or is the summer just flying by?! Hopefully the weather is nice and warm as there are plenty of outdoor events happening in Toronto this weekend!

Happeig Weekend, Eminent Domain, Art, Exhibit, Project, The Power Plant Gallery, Harbourfront, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Panamania, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps

Here are my top picks for fun and fabulous events across the city!:

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Exhibit: Reflecting on Nature & More at The Power Plant!

The Power Plant Gallery's Eminent Domain and Panamania Exhibition Review

For the last several weeks Pananmania, an art and culture festival running in conjunction with the Pan AM/Parapan Am Games, has been happening across Toronto. A few weeks ago I visited The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery at The Harbourfront Centre to see several art projects exhibited that are a part of Panamania.

Eminent Domain by Bik Van der Pol at The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery at Harbourfont Centre in Toronto, panamania, artmatters, culture, enviroment, collectives, exhibit, exhibition, ecological, extinct, the purple scarf, melanieps, ontario, canada

Four commissioned projects by local and international artist collectives are on display that connects with their audience through active engagement.

Friday, August 07, 2015

Happening Weekend: Food, Beer & Art!

Toronto Events Listing For August 7 - 9, 2015

It's another weekend in Toronto! If this week is any indication (that's why this post is a little late), it's going to be busy! From Panamania to Taste of Danforth, there are plenty of events happening across the city to keep everyone busy.

Happening Weekend, thats so gay, exhibit, toronto, the purple scarf, melanieps

Here are my top picks for fabulous events and happenings in Toronto this weekend!:

Tuesday, August 04, 2015

P.s!: August Rush!

July Blog Roundup & August Preview

I can't believe it's already August! It feels like the summer season just started and now it's nearing the end. So sad. But there are still many weeks of fun filled sunny days ahead! August is always a fun month. It starts off with a long weekend (for some) and ends in one (sometimes). It also ends in one of the largest events in Toronto - The CNE!

The Purple Scarf, melanieps, toronto, ontario, canada, events, festivals, fashion, culture, beauty, reviews blog, july highights and faves

Even though it's going to end soon, this summer has been one of lots of fun and adventures that I will not soon forget.

Friday, July 31, 2015

Explore Toronto: Living On The Edge at the CN Tower!

CN Tower Edge Walk Experience Review

I love exploring and seeing Toronto in a different light. Whether it's vising unique hidden gems in the city, like a new public art installation, or getting acquainted with a beautiful old park or neighbourhood, I'm always surprised at how much Toronto has to offer.

Explore, Toronto, Edge Walk, View, city, high, tourist, attraction, guiness world record, sunset, aerial, lifestyle, adventure, urban, the purple scarf, ontario, canada

That's why when a friend invited me to join him on the CN Tower Edge Walk, I jumped at the chance to get the best view of the city.

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Happening Weekend: Food & Music!

Toronto Events Listing For August Long Weekend 2015

It's going to another hot weekend, so if you are not lucky enough to own cottage (or know someone who does), there are plenty of music and food events to keep you occupied this long weekend.

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Here are my top picks for events this weekend!:

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Exhibit: Bon Voyage MOCCA!

MOCCA's Final West Queen West Exhibition - Dean Baldwin: Q.W.Y.C. Review

The Museum of Canadian Contemporary Art (MOCCA) is moving away from its current home, where it has been a staple in the artsy West Queen West neighbourhood since 2005. To pay tribute to this amazing museum and send it off in style, MOCCA's final West Queen West exhibition, Dean Baldwin: Q.W.Y.C, is a two month party and anyone can join!

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Q.W.Y.C. stands for Queen West Yacht club, a fictitious social club that will host several performances and events through the duration of the exhibit.

Monday, July 27, 2015

Explore Toronto: Coupland and The City!

Several Toronto Public Art Installations by Douglas Coupland Review

Now that is had been a few months since the ending of the Douglas Coupland invasion of Toronto with two major exhibitions at MOCCA and the ROM, you might be going through Coupland withdrawal. Don't fret, I've got you covered!

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Monument to The War of 1812, 2008
There are so many amazing pubic art installations in Toronto, especially downtown. A while back I had the opportunity to join a walking art tour organized by MOCCA, and tour a small part of Toronto and learn about some of Douglas Coupland's amazing art displayed for all to see!

Friday, July 24, 2015

Happening Weekend: Beer, Art & Music!

Toronto Events Listing for July 24 - July 26, 2015

This weekend marks the end of several amazing events happening in Toronto, but don't worry, you still have until Sunday to enjoy them.

Happening Weekend: Toronto Nathan Phillips Square Panmania, Pan Am, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps

Here are my top picks for events and happenings in Toronto this weekend!:

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

My Style: Summer Eclectic Love!

424 Fifth Birdcage Skirt & Express Graphic T-Shirt Outfit

I love mixing up styles to create a unique and eclectic outfit. And the summertime is the perfect time to bring out the dressy skirts and pair them with a fun graphic tee.

My Style: Express T-shirt, 424 Fifth Birdcage Skirt from Hudson's Bay, Aldo Clutch, H&M Hat, Forever 21 Booties. Photo Credit: Ardean Peters, fashion, Styletips, Eclectic, inspration, summer, pink, tiger, OOTD, tee, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, The Purple Scarf, Melanie.Ps

I fell in love with This 424 birdcage skirt when it first arrived in Hudson's Bay stores back in February when I featured it in my Valentine's Day Inspiration Fashion post. And I finally bought it for 70% off the original price at the amazing clearance sale happening at The Bay right now!

Friday, July 17, 2015

Happening Weekend: Art, Culture & Beer!

Toronto Events Listing for July 17 - 19, 2015

One of the many reasons I love Toronto are the endless variety of amazing things to do in this city, especially on the weekends. And this weekend is no exception. From free concerts to PANamania, there are so many events happening across this fabulous city.

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Here are my top picks for amazing events and happenings to do this weekend!:

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Exhibit: Pride Aplenty at Gladstone Hotel!

That's So Gay & 10X10 Photography Project Exhibition Reviews

For the past several years, the Gladstone Hotel plays host to two LGBTQ centered art exhibits that run throughout the summer months and the Toronto Pride celebrations.

Unsettling: Queer Propaganda by Pablo from That's So Gay: Fall To Pieces Exhibit at Gladstone Hotel in Toronto, exhibition, art, culture, artmatters, pride, LGBTQ, queer, gay, lesbian, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, ontario, canada
Unsettling: Queer Propaganda by Pablo Munoz
That's So Gay: Fall To Pieces and the 10X10 Photography Project are the two exhibitions and I visited both a few weeks ago.

Friday, July 10, 2015

Happening Weekend: It's PANdemonium!

Toronto Events Listing for July 10 - 12, 2015

Another weekend is upon us and this one is an action packed one that is the beginning of several weeks of amazing events happening across Toronto. The Pan Am games start today on Friday with nearly 7000 athletes converging on the city from across the Americas and the Caribbean. The Province of Ontario, Toronto, and other corporations have some amazing events and activities for everyone to enjoy! And if you want to avoid all the PANdemonium (yes I went there), there's plenty of other taking place across the city.

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Here are my top picks for things to do in Toronto this weekend (and hopefully I'll see you there)!:

Wednesday, July 08, 2015

Event: Me With You Toronto Fringe Show Giveaway!

Me With You at The Toronto Fringe Festival Ticket Giveaway

Are you free Thursday night? Do you love supporting Canadian artists and great causes like The CAMH Foundation? My talented friends at Loose Leaf Theatre have offered up a pair of tickets to their next Toronto Fringe Festival production of Me With You tomorrow night (Thursday) for one of my lucky readers!

Loos Leaf Theatre, Me With You, The Toronto Fringe Festival, Ontario, Canada, Culture, The Purple Scarf, MelaniePs, Giveaway, play

The Toronto Fringe Festival is in full swing and there are some amazing shows staring some fabulous talent including Loose Leaf Theatre's debut play Me With You! There have been some amazing buzz about this awesome play that stars Myrthin Stagg and Oliver Georgiou accompanied by Elliott Loran playing music live on stage.

Monday, July 06, 2015

P.s!: Some Sun & Fun!

June Blog Roundup & July Preview

It's already a few days into July, so this post is a little late. It's just been such a busy few weeks! July has started off with a bang thanks to Canada Day on July 1st and the start of The Toronto Fringe Festival! I have been working with Loose Leaf Theatre Company who debuts their amazing play Me With You at Fringe, and I'm so excited to be apart of such an amazing show. If you haven't seen it, there are still four shows left. And if you haven't been to Fringe before, you should definitely check it out!


Some of my favourite moment s from June, has to be working and preparing for The Toronto Fringe Festival. I also found my new favourite fashion accessories store in Cabbagetown called Pipler Accessories. And I went to some amazing art exhibits featuring some amazing Canadian talent. And I finally got to relax a little and enjoy some quality time with friends and family.

Friday, July 03, 2015

Happening Weekend: Salsa, Food & Fringe!

Toronto Events Listing for July 3 - 5, 2015

Happy Belated Canada Day! It may not feel like it (at least for me), but it's another weekend in Toronto. For those who had a day or two or more off this week, the weekend came quick and it's full of great events to keep the Canada Day celebration spirit going. And for those that didn't get a chance to enjoy Canada Day, it's the perfect time to celebrate our Nation's birthday (belatedly) and of course summer!

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Here are my top picks for fun and fabulous things to do in Toronto!

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

My Style: Fast Fashion!

Denim Joggers & Urban Behaviour Outfit

I don't own a pair of jogging pants, fleece pants, or any kind a "sweat/jogger pants". I'm not a huge fan and I just feel uncomfortable leaving my house in something I would only wearing around the house or at the gym. So when I finally found a pair of denim joggers that I felt good in, I had to buy them!

My Style: Tank Top, Denim Joggers, Asian-inspired Jacket from Urban Behaviour, Mat and Nat Bag Heel Boy, Nine West Ballet Flats, outfit, inspiration, shopping, OOTD, look, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, sunglasses, pink, necklace

I found these pants for the fabulous discounted price of $10! Ladies, I have found a store that any fashion-conscious woman would love! Its name is Urban Behaviour outlet store and its located downtown on trendy Queen Street West at the corner of Spadina Avenue.

Monday, June 29, 2015

Event: Me With You at The Toronto Fringe!

Loose Leaf Theatre Company's Me With You Play Preview

This upcoming week is pretty exciting. Not only is it Canada Day on Wednesday but The Toronto Fringe Festival also starts its 12 day run on Wednesday. I always loved The Toronto Fringe Festival - it's fun, sometimes a little crazy, and has a great line up of amazing theatre and dance shows I can see for just $10 each!

Loose Leaf Theatre Company presents Me With You at The Toronto Fringe Festival with profits going to The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto, culture, play, art, atmatters, mental health, myrthin stagg, oliver geogiou, elliott loran, britanny larusic, physical, siblings, family, ontario, canada, the purple scarf, melanie.ps

There are so many fabulous shows to see, I want to introduce you to an amazing show by the newly formed Loose Leaf Theatre Company called Me With You.

Saturday, June 27, 2015

Skincare Review: A Temporary Miracle from L'Oreal!

L'Oreal Revitalift Miracle Blur Instant Eye Smoother Review

I have been concerned about the skin around my eye area a lot lately. Unfortunately, age and my lack of sleep has been causing my eyes and the surrounding area to not look their sparkling best! So I decided to try to find an eye cream that will help me out. So for the past several weeks I have been using the L'Oreal Revitalift Miracle Blur Instant Eye Smoother, and I have some mixed feelings about this product.

L'Oreal Revitalift Miracle Blur Instant Eye Smoother, review, beauty, skincare, cream, skin, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, toronto, ontario, canada

When I first started looking for different eye creams/serums to test out, the L'Oreal Miracle Blur jumped out. I mean it has miracle in it's name, and let's face it I was searching for a miracle! (Marketing at it's best:).

Thursday, June 25, 2015

What's Happening: Pride, Ribs and Gatsby!

Toronto Events Listing for June 26 - June 28, 2015

I can't believe it's the last weekend of June already and it's an exciting one packed full of plenty of things to do and see across the city. It's also the start of my vacation, so I'm pretty excited. I'm not traveling anywhere exotic this time, but there are plenty of events to enjoy across Toronto!

Stephen Andrews POV exhibit at The Ontario Art Gallery of Ontario, toronto, happenings, exhibition, culture, the purple scarf, melanie.ps, ontario canada

Here are my top picks for happenings in Toronto this weekend:

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Shopping: Fashion That Speaks Volumes at Pipler Accessories!

Pipler Accessories Store Preview

Last month I was privileged to be invited to the opening of Pipler Accessories, a really cool accessories store in Cabbagetown in Toronto. As soon as I walked into the small store, I fell in love!

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Pipler Accessories is owned and operated by the married team of Leonie Lilla and Alice Clarkson who believe that fashion accessories have the powerful ability to tell stories and exude messages of integrity.

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