The Gesture

Spring forward!

It's time to embrace longer days that stretch out like a piece of gum stuck to an unfortunate shoe.

I remember moving to a new school in grade six, and my teacher giving my class a speech about how we would all turn into hormonal animals once spring arrived. Mostly, she was talking about the age shift from 11 to 12 years old, but I stared at her terrified. She then ended her verbal crusade by telling us to buy deodorant.

Spring brings upon the debut of naked ankles, and the movement towards a better version of the self. With an increase in sunshine, comes an increase in friendliness, health and happiness. Even though Toronto is still freezing, if the evening brightness has put you in a better mood, I challenge you to do something nice for another person.

Sweet Like Candy - Not A Model Contributor Post

Looking to brighten up your wardrobe? Below is another Not A Model contributor post from Katie. She usually hits us with the best recipe blogs but she also has an affinity for writing some great fashion posts. Enjoy! 

By: Katie Mills

Neon was a mega trend last year which made a statement that screamed the bolder, the better. Even though its made a lasting impression for another season, their lighter shaded sister is starting to pop up everywhere. Seen on the runways at Tibi, 3.1 Philip Lim, Diane von Furstenberg and Preen, just to name a few, these sweet sorbet hues are sweeping in to steal the spotlight for the warmer months. What's great about pastels is that if you're not usually one to wear colour (and you thought neons took it way too far), these lighter pigments are a subtle way to inject life into your monochromatic wardrobe. Regardless of whether you incorporate pastels into your full on look or just add a splash by way of accessories, these candy coloured shades are sure to keep you looking sweet.

1. J Brand 835 Mid-Rise Capri - $169

2. Madewell true love shrunken oxford - $59.50

3. Zara platform sandal - $99.90

4. Topshop dropped back sleeveless shirt - $47

5. Alice + Olivia Cady cuff shorts - $169.87

6. Zara geometric panel necklace - $25.90

7. ASOS pastel skinny belt - $10.97

8. Wilfred Sabine dress - $165

9. ASOS pyramid metal tip clutch - $27.41

10. Aldo Shurkus pump - $90

I need some Spring in my step

Slippery slush. Wind that bites. Skin that never shines. Dark mornings. Darker evenings. Hot beverages. Burnt tongue. Resolutions hanging frozen on a clothes-line. HEY sun, where you at?

Around this time of year, like clockwork I prematurely yearn for Springtime.

The good news is that the groundhog came up last week, which means we are that much closer to trench coats and silk blouses. I'm ready to retire my puffy outerwear for something a little more breezy.

Isn't that what we all need right now, just a little bit of air?

If the above ads don't have you daydreaming of lighter layers yet, check out the latest video for the fantastic Spring 2011 collection by Canadian designer Marika Brose. It's been getting quite the recognition across the web, so I thought I'd share it.

The video was created by Cory (as you may remember him from my cafe review adventures). I always like to draw attention to the creative people behind the camera. It's easy to get entranced and remember a beautiful subject or beautiful clothes but rarely do people stop to ask who created the vision.

Cory and I will soon be working on a video for Not A Model, so stay tuned!!! I may be apprehensive about the whole thing, but I know I'm in good hands. As for the video below, I suddenly have the urge to throw on a white feather dress and walk down the Champs-Elysées. Oui?

If you liked that, check out Cory's other motion films here. So non-models, I ask what are you most excited about for Spring?