NEW YORK FASHION WEEK: DAY ONE

Floral dress: Lucca Couture / Combat boots: Maje / Bag: Celine / Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Clubmaster / Braclets: Asos, Topshop, Hermes / Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Hello Hello! 

This year I decided to embark on a journey that I've only dreamt about, up until this point. I bought an airplane ticket, RSVP'd to invitations, booked a hotel room, and started planning my outfits. I've been following Fashion Week for years now, and every year I tweet something a long the lines of "Everyone is at fashion week and I'm just in bed being irrelevant". Now that I'm here, there's not a moment I have that isn't filled with gratitude. I seriously walk down the streets of NYC and smile. Maybe I'm cheesy, or maybe I'm quite literally in love with this city.

On the first day, I had the absolute best time meeting with bloggers from around the world. Come to think of it, one of the best parts of this trip has been the possibility of meeting other like-minded people. I met Liza, a russian beauty blogger, and we spent the afternoon window shopping, filming fun little videos for YouTube, and of course, what kind of tourist would I be if I wasn't taken to Times Square? ;)

When night rolled around I met with Sofie Eliseeva, one of my favourite Russian fashion bloggers. We spent some time in TriBeCa, drinking "French toast", which seriously- if you run across a cocktail that shamelessly shares it's name with a breakfast, run away.  

For my first day, I decided to wear a Saint Laurent ad inspired outfit that I was instantly drawn to when I was scrolling through the September issue of Vogue. Floral print dress, fishnet tights, combat boots, and you're good. It's the perfect mix of innocence and grunge, and I am 100% committed to this beautiful lovechild of styles. 

See you tomorrow for more Fashion Week craziness!

Sonya x

ORLANDO.

Silk shirt: Iris & Ink / Lace skirt: ROMWE (similar) / Flats: Chanel / Straw Fedora: Guess / Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs / Purse: Alexander Wang

Hello from Orlando, Florida! 

I'm here until the end of the week as media coverage for the Zumba Convention! Today I got to interview Victoria Justice (the interview will be up later), take a pretty dope picture with Sean Paul, and yea, obviously got to do some Zumba myself at the Zumba Concert, which was the most lively concert I've ever been to. I'm definitely not a dancing type, but I am a fun-fitness type. I strictly refuse to do intentional exercise like going to the gym, going on runs, etc. That's just not what I'm about, I like yoga, biking everywhere, walking everywhere; so Zumba is right up my alley. 

While I'm here, I'm not only attending all the fun events, but I'm also soaking in the Florida sunshine (obviouslyyy). It's actually quite tricky to dress for the humidity over here; it's so hot that it's a burden to be wearing anything at all really. I decided to sport this gorgeous silk t-shirt I got while at the event that The Coveteur & The OUTNET hosted last week in Toronto that I had the pleasure of attending. I'm obsessed with all things silk, so this shirt had my name written all over it. The skirt: an all-time favourite, and the shoes, we all know, I love because they are a comfortable alternative to heels (at least in my eyes). 

I'll see you all soon with another less-is-more outfit while I fight the tropical heat haha

xo

REFLECTIVE CYAN.

Top: ASOS.com / Sweater: Brandy Melville (similar) / Shorts: Levis vintage / Sandals: Forever 21 / Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Aviators / Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs 

When I bought this crop top/bandeau/it kind of looks like a shower cap, I had NO idea how to wear it. It was on sale at ASOS.com for something like $8, and I knew I had to make it work somehow. 

Ta da! 

I love pieces like this; I mean sure you won't wear it everyday, but when you do wear it you feel daring and confident in yourself. Thank you to the sizzling Italian sun for permitting this outfit choice, and also thank you for allowing such amazing strawberries to grow! Seriously- Italian strawberries are to die for!

Now that I'm back to the metropolitan city of Toronto now, I'll be ditching the belly tops and diving straight for the silk tanks. That is, after I can ditch the jet lag and get out of bed ;)

ON THE MOUNTAINS OF AMALFI.

Truth be told, I'm actually supposed to be at my high school graduation ceremony right now- but due to a last minute change of plans, I'm wearing my grad dress in Amalfi, Italy! Not complaining, like, at all. Within a short few hours of being here I was flooded with a sea of questions. How are there trees growing on rocky mountains? How cool must it be too live on top of a cave? Why are the lemons so big?

Amalfi is definitely an incredible coast to visit, although honestly I can't wait to spend a day in Rome- one of my favorite cities I've ever visited. I'm a city girl, all the way. Even California couldn't do it for me. 

In other news, I didn't have the brains to plan my outfits prior to the trip, so I have 17kg worth of clothing in my luggage, which only means lots and lots of blog posts!

Enjoy! ;) haha

Silk Wrap Dress: Wilfred (similar) / Sunglasses: Miu Miu  / Sandals: Forever 21 / Purse: Alexander Wang Kirsten 

TWICE THE DENIM.

Blue shirt: MANGO / Denim shorts: Vintage Levis (similar) / Sneakers: Converse / Purse: Alexander Wang

Pairing denim with denim can be tricky; it is either a horrendous mimmic of the 90's or tastefully chic.

I think the key is definitely working with two different shades of blue, and if possible, different fabrics (aka denim look-alikes). Denim shirts are a must-have for me, I'm pretty sure I have them in three different shades of blue, and even that doesn't feel like enough! This particular one is a new find for me from Spain, obviously, because so many amazing and dominant retailers originated from Spain! Zara, anyone?

Speaking of Spain, I got back home yesterday night and am still battling a rough battle with jet lag. Breakfast at 4am, dinner at 3pm. Something's not right... 

Hopefully I'll be able to visit Spain again soon, and spend more time in one of my absolute favorite cities in the world, Barcelona. 

Ciao mi amigos.

SPAIN DIARIES.

Ah, at last the days have gotten warmer in Spain and the time has come to hit the beach!

I have already managed to brown up to the point of belonging to a different race, and co-incidentally burn my lips, shoulders, chest...and everything else. Oops..

These past few days have been filled with popsicles on the beach, driving up and down breath-taking mountains, tuna salads, hacking restaurant wifi everywhere I go, and shopping. Most importantly though I've been spending priceless time with my family. 

1. On the beach in Marbella today- where I met a subscriber of mine :) So cool!

2. On the beach in Marbella yesterday haha

3. One of my dreams finally came true: I step foot in Africa! 

4. Nothing better than a jungle within the city. 

SPAIN TRIP☀

Cut-out shirt: Choies / Shorts: Vintage Levis / Shoes: Converse / Bag: Alexander Wang / Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Hola from Spain!

I'm here with family from all over the world that I barely get to see, spending 10 or so days in a city close to Marbella, Spain. The beauty is surreal! 

I was in Spain last June, and I fell in love with Barcelona like none other. Catch up on my compliments here.

Today we went to Malaga, which from my understanding at least, is a city populated mostly by Spanish residents opposed to tourists. It seems like the place to go if you want to see a pretty authentic Spanish city, opposed to a tourist destination. We checked out the Picasso museum today, and I must say it was pretty interesting! I especially liked his quotes, which I sneakily and illegally snapped a photo of today in the museum.

Hoping that the weather warms up and I can go swimming :)

xo.

SANTA MONICA.

Thankfully the last day in California was also the hottest day, so it only made sense to dedicate our time to the beach. 

We started with a beautiful brunch at the well-known Ivy Restaurant, which is not a place I would usually gravitate towards because of it's colorful elegance and far-from-flashy exterior, but my goodness it was magical. Maybe I love it so much because I've been craving french toast for two months ;) 

Santa Monica is such an amazing place to spend the day, especially if you're a couple (you'd fit right in with all the people making out). The whole time we were watching a couple rehearsing dramatic and romantic lines for a movie, it was quite the entertainment.

We walked around Third Street Promenade again and decided to drive back to Beverly Hills, where I made a very exciting purchase I'll share soon!

Thank you California, you were just what I needed and absolutely perfect in every way. 

To everyone dreaming of taking a trip to Los Angeles: set your mind to it, and then just go for it! 

See you soon

xo

Dress: Vintage (found at Buffalo Exchange) / Necklace: H&M 

BEVERLY HILLS: 90210

Another beautiful day in Los Angeles: complete! 

We started the morning at Urth Caffe, which I knew would be amazing but wasn't sure if it was worth the hype. Let me assure you, it is definitely worth the hype. I don't think I've ever had a better breakfast, and that says a lot coming from a breakfast connoisseur like myself (get a granola bowl or the banana nut oatmeal and a boba).

We then went on a walk down Rodeo drive and ended up at Sprinkles, which I certainly didn't mind. The european architecture and overall feel of Rodeo drive was beautiful, and we did indeed see a million-dollar car as rightfully expected.

We drove back to Santa Monica and shopped around at Buffalo Exchange, and then had dinner at Whole Foods (again...)

I chose a monochromatic combination of a silk cami and skirt to purposefully match the elegance of Beverly Hills, and matched it with a sea foam green cardigan for contrast and warmth.

Silk camisole: Wilfred / Skirt: Wilfred / Cardigan: Romwe / Sunglasses: Prada / Purse: Celine Luggage

FIRST DAY IN L.A.

Shirt: Asos / Jeans: Urban Outfitters / Cut-out boots: Topshop / Beanie: Urban Outfitters / Purse: Celine Luggage

How would I describe the first day in LA? Oasis.
We got in last night and instantly went for a walk outside and breathed in the tropical air, wandered around gas stations and settled on a pint of ice cream from Ralph's. 

Today we started our day off at 7AM thanks to jet lag, but it was actually quite nice because we got a lot of things done within the day. We walked to Whole Foods for grocery shopping and grabbed breakfast (...and chocolate) while we were there. From then on, we got lucky enough to be able to have access to a car to drive to West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, which is where we mostly spent the day. Everyone in LA uses this "cold" weather to their advantage and breaks out cute winter coats, whereas I whip out my t-shirts ;)

We had dinner at Katsuya on Hollywood and Vine (Hillary Duff song memories, anyone?) and then drove back home.

Unfortunately we didn't get insanely lucky with the weather, but that's not going to stop me from having an amazing time.

See you in 90210 tomorrow.

LONDON CALLING!

Last friday night I arrived in London after a smooth 6 hour flight from Toronto. As you all probably know, I was the winner of the Nokia x LeiVanKash contest back in December and got to take a trip up to London to design a limited edition piece of jewelry with Leila!

The first day started really early, and we pretty much got straight to work as soon as I came downstairs from my hotel room. We were filming all around London, but while working, I thankfully got to take a tour around the city and check out Big Ben and the London Eye. We walked around several markets and cafes, went to Libertys, got pizza for lunch, and then finally it was time to design with Leila. The whole time I was overwhelmed with inspiration and encouragement, and I seriously have to thank Leila for the guidance! It's amazing having someone to look up to as a mentor. We ended the day off at a dim sum restaurant, and then I evidently crashed from a very tiring, but amazing day.

Cashmere sweater: Maison Martin Margiela x H&M / Jeans: TopShop / Combat boots: Steve Madden / Purse: Celine Luggage / Jewelry: LeiVanKash

NEW YEAR WISHLIST.

Just like last year, I wanted to construct a vague "wish list" of things I want to buy myself, or accomplish in the upcoming year! I did actually manage to get most of the things I wanted last year, but mind you.. I bought them all myself :) I think the last time someone actually gifted me something was when I was 13 haha

Hermès Bangle: Just so beautiful and simplistic- ideal for bracelet stacking (I refuse to call it arm candy).

Cameo "He Said What?" Skirt: I fell in love with this as soon as I saw it, and I think I'm just waiting for it to go on sale.

Cartier Love Bracelet: Arguably the best materialistic gift to receive from somebody.

Yves Saint Laurent Wallet: Absolutely love the front design of this wallet. Now if only I could find it somewhere!

Alexander Wang Boots: Just any boots by Alexander Wang = Yes please. I'm dying for a pair of lace-up heeled booties, but can't seem to find the perfect pair!

Zara Strap Heels: These babies are sold out. But... they're so so beautiful. Too beautiful.

Travel: This year I turn 18, which means I can travel freely and book hotels on my own! I just really hope to visit the one place I've been wanting to go to ever since I can remember: california ... and not book a return ticket... ;)

Graduation/Prom: I finished school this December,  but I still feel like I'm in High School by association. I haven't had a graduation ceremony yet, and I still have to go to prom. So of course, that definitely will define my year :) ... this sounds like foreshadowing haha

THE EMPIRE STATE.

Hey everyone!
I've been so MIA lately, especially with YouTube, but I hope my post today makes up for it! If you didn't know, New York is a state, a state in America. Canada and New York make up a border, right where Niagra Falls is. Sorry if I sound like Professor Obvious, but some people thought that New York was a state in Canada.. no haha.
I woke up on Sunday morning and my mom suggested that we go to Niagara Falls (which we kind of do every year so it's quite annoying at this point), so I said we should grab our passports and cross the border to New York. Honestly, my only motivation was Target and the American Vitamin Water flavours. We didn't get to go to Target, so hopefully some other time!
If I knew how to drive, I swear I'd head down to the States at least once a month (just for the vitamin water haha)
See you soon!

Rib shirt: Religion / Tweed shorts: Zara / Flats: Shoemint / Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

HELLO MOSKVA!

Happy July, and to all my Canadians, happy Canada day!

Well isn't it ironic, I return to Canada on Canada day. I can assure you I will be more than celebrating this country today! I'm incredibly grateful to be living in such a modernized, intelligent and civilized country. I've missed the politeness and modesty of people! I'm not going to mention what I consider to be the shortcomings of Russia (if you want to hear my complaints, this girls got a twitter..) Reflecting back to my time in Russia, I do have to say that I learned a lot while being abroad. I learned to use a gas stove and shower from a bucket!! Im basically a caveman!

Nevertheless I'm currently on a (beautiful & new) train right now to Moscow, where I'll be posting this thanks for the wifi in Coffee House haha.
If all goes according to plan we're going to grab some breakfast there before heading to the airport and getting on a plane to Frankfurt, and then finally Toronto!
Talk to you guys soon!

BACK TO THE MIDDLE AGES IN GIRONA

Hey everyone!

I’m back in Russia now, and tomorrow I’ll be headed for the train to Voronezh, which is where my mom is originally from. The train takes 22 hours to get there……….. I’m so excited I can’t even contain myself (serious, serious sarcasm there).

Anyways I wanted to share a picture from Girona, a city in Spain that my mom seemed to be in love with, while I, quite honestly think it looks like a dumpster/sewer city ;)

I won’t have internet for the next 5 days or so, so I’ll preplan some posts for you guys and talk to you all soon hopefully when I’m in Moscow, headed back home to Canada.

Pray I don’t have internet withdrawal syndome please!

Bye!

BARCELONA

Greeeetings from my hotel room!

Allow me to share with you all, the magical city of Barcelona. I’ve always heard people talk about how the city gives you an indescribable feeling, although I never understood quite what they meant until I saw it for myself. I don’t mean to sound like I know anything about architecture, because trust me I don’t, but Barcelona’s is briliant. You turn the corner on a random street, and there you’ll find an unusual, artistic building with eyeballs coming out of it. It’s like in school, when there’s that one artsy kid that dresses in rainbow pants and owns it- that’s Barcelona. Although the European charm is still there, the whole city has such a Middle-Eastern feel to it, it almost felt like walking around in the Dubai. I also saw inside an olympic stadium, which I don’t think I’ve ever seen before. We took an organized tour from our hotel in Tossa De Mar there, which I wouldn’t recommend to anyone visiting for the first time because they don’t give you any more than 2 hours to walk around, which is nowhere near enough time. It’s so unfortunate that we didn’t end up staying in Barcelona.. the city is simply amazing and I will 100% return (without my mom hehe). 

Te amo Barcelona!

Shorts and shirt from ZARA

Tourist Sonya haha

Eyeballs coming out of the building! Brilliant! 

You can never go wrong with a selfie!

We had lunch in a cute little Thai restaurant named Bun Bo.

Orange trees growing (for decoration.. but it was still so pretty!)