A Smoking Gun

How To Swim  vintage cigarette card courtesy of NYPL Digital Gallery

Mrs. Easton, a blog of curiosities by industrial designer Melissa Easton, recently posted some images of vintage cigarette cards in honour of the Summer Olympics. These beautifully illustrated cards immediately captured me and I began to start a rigorous online search into the history of these magical pieces of paper.

According to the all-knowing Wikipedia, these cards were first issued by tobacco companies in the late 1800's and often featured actresses, athletes, and sometimes advertising for the cigarettes themselves. Eventually, the cards were released in collector sets of 20 to 50 cards depicting themes such as "Ships and Sailors."

Ruby Tuesday

I may have found the perfect statement piece to ease the always difficult transition into fall. I have been vehemently trying to avoid that word for the past week or so, but there's no denying that the end of summer is quietly approaching. Retail therapy is definitely necessary, and my first order of business is this amazing spiky, tribal meets rocker piece of loveliness. I have been a longtime fan of Biko jewelry and especially appreciate that each piece is handcrafted in Toronto by owner, Corinne Anestopoulos. With her most recent colour punched collection, you can keep a piece of summer with you always and forever.

J.

Sunday Best

Kristy of Monochroma.Chic, a Toronto based style blog, is absolutely adorable! I kind of want to be her and I really want to own her wardrobe. Who wouldn't though? It's the perfect blend of office appropriate tops and super fun shoes. The best part is her Outfits page which organizes her fashion choices by season and activity. Adorable indeed.

L.

Living Pretty

Time to hit the patio! And by patio, I actually mean my apartment balcony. While doing my routine peruse of Happy Mundane, I found a seriously happy outdoor bench that will instantly turn my little balcony California cool. I love a neutral with a bunch of bright colours thrown in. I may not be able to leave the building if this piece of furniture is actually purchased. Who says that's a bad thing?


J.

Almost Cat

I am completely entranced by this portrait series by Ronald Ceuppens. I am running out of space for my must have art, but I'm pretty sure these would look beautiful side by side above my bed. Delicate and haunting, there really is something intriguing about them. 

J.