So when UNIQLO reached out to share their new collection of sweaters I jumped at the opportunity to try them on and style them for the season. Although this post is sponsored by UNIQLO all opinions are 100% my own.

What I look for in my knitwear is very specific and I always gravitate to whites and cream knits, (I have around 10 white[ish] sweaters that I love). It’s likely because they are so easy to style with any print, pattern and colour. I’m obsessed with the texture and cut of this 3D Lambswool sweater, that has the perfect V-neck in the front and a mini one in the back and cocoons out in shape allowing it to be ideal for layering.

For the past few years, I’ve lived in turtle necks. Tight and tucked-in or oversized and chunky; turtle necks are one of the ideal cuts for sweaters. And it was love at first sight when I tried on this fine Merino wool turtle neck. The fabric is super soft, fine and fitted but not too tight.

After wearing it twice, I downloaded the new UNIQLO CA App, picked it up in two more colours and had them shipped directly to my door. I’ve worn it tucked into jeans and track pants, under overalls and dresses and layered with a chunky cardigan for a sweater on sweater look. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen me in them via my stories and feed for the last month or so.

With the holiday season officially starting, a great way to take knitwear into a more formal setting is with a sweater dress. Because knitwear could add a little bulk, I like to keep things more fitted when it comes to dresses allowing the material to hug your curves. This Extra Fine Merino Wool dress is a great fit and flare cut, making it super flattering. I added simple statement earrings to help highlight the mock turtle neck, adding a touch of glam to the look.

Having cozy and effortless basics to turn to makes getting dressed in the dark easier and the luxurious knits at UNIQLO are going to continue to be the go-to piece for the upcoming winter season.

Sweater, Turtle neck and dress: UNIQLO Canada, Glasses: Clearly.ca
Jacket & Pants: Banana Republic, Boots: Zara, Jeans: Target, Shawl (actually a blanket): Vintage, Shoes: Nicholas Kirkwood for Erdem

Dress: Ingrid & Isabel Double Layer Midi Dress + Nursing in True Navy

Being a style blogger for the past 6 years, I didn’t realize how much of my closet would change when becoming a mother. There were the obvious changes, like size, and for me it’s been harder than expected to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight as I’ve been suffering from patellar tendonitis on my left knee and for the last 10 weeks a broken right foot, but I’m not putting too much pressure on myself. Though, I think the biggest change was that I’ve needed my clothing to do more.

Shirt: Ingrid & Isabel Double Layer Woven Top + Nursing in Bright White

As a mom, who has exclusively nursed her son for the past 8 months, finding clothing that is nursing-friendly has been a struggle, especially being well-endowed. Many new moms can still adorn their button-up blouses, or many of their pre-baby clothing that allows for easy nursing while on-the-go, but for me this has been impossible.

Shirt: Ingrid & Isabel Off The Shoulder Maxi Dress in Blush

Luckily, I’ve partnered with the amazing maternity brand Ingrid & Isabel, and have a few key items that have been on serious rotation over the last few months that have allowed for me to discreetly feed my son. Specializing in trendy clothing to take you from your first trimester into your fourth (after baby is born), I became obsessed with their line of dresses and tops and this amazing jumpsuit that make nursing a breeze.

I must be honest, breastfeeding has been one of my favourite and least favourite parts of the last 8 months. I can feel the special time coming to an end as Sterling becomes more dependent on food and he approaches his first birthday. Which makes me feel excited to take back ownership of my body, but also saddens me as I’ll miss the cuddles and closeness that breastfeeding provides.

Sterling is wearing: Romper: Smash & Tess, Outfit: Target Cloud Island (pants, shirt), Hat: Hillcrest Mall 
I’m wearing: Visor: Kate Spade New York (old), Hat & shorts: Target (old), Frames: c/o Clearly (black) (pink)
Personalized backpack & duffle: c/o Ketzel Baby

As a new mom, I think one of the most important things that helped me feel normal (during a time when nothing feels normal) was getting outside. Having a winter baby, it was easy to get comfortable staying at home and hibernating while getting to know my new bundle of joy, but as the season changed, there was no longer an excuse and it was time to move that bonding time outdoors.

All babies are different and I’m beyond fortunate that Sterling allows me to bring him with me to events, road trips and errands around the city. Having a baby that cooperates with an active lifestyle has proven to be a blessing and the right equipment has been key for when he needs a little extra attention and care.

The essentials for excursions may also differ baby-to-baby, but for Sterling and I, the keys to success has been to have options, sun protection and a plan. I never leave the house without my diaper bag filled with a swaddle blanket for privacy during nursing, either my ring-sling or baby wrap in case he gets fussy and wants to be held, and a handful of outfits for him (and at times an extra one for me).

Probably the most important item for a day on-the-go is a compact and portable, lightweight stroller, like the new MINU by UPPAbaby available at West Coast Kids. I’m so excited to have partnered with UPPAbaby to try the newest stroller to the collection. It has a spacious seat suitable for babies 3 months to 50 lbs, there is also a bassinet attachment available for newborns (From Birth Kit), and the seat has the ability to recline which allows Sterling to fall asleep while we’re on-the-go. (From Birth Kit & Infant Car Seat Adapters available in stores Fall 2018).

But my favourite feature, with this compact stroller is the way that it folds, it’s literally a one-handed smooth movement, that I can do while holding Sterling. Once folded it can stand and can easily be carried using its built-in handle or shoulder strap.

Some of my favourite places to go with Sterling are for walks along the waterfront where we live, for picnic days at Trinity Bellwoods and shopping around downtown on Bloor Street or Queen Street.

He travels so easily in the UPPAbaby MINU stroller, with the all-wheel suspension and a pop-out sunshade to shield his eyes from harmful UV rays that I don’t need to worry about having him tag along during any adventure I’m on. There is also a peekaboo-window which allows for air to flow through during those hot summer days that we’ve been having.

I think that having options available to you is important when it comes to life with a baby. Different things work at different times and a travel stroller, like the UPPAbaby MINU, has been essential for a busy day in the city.

They say “you only get 18 summers with your children”, and with this being our first one with Sterling, I’m looking to making the most out of it as we explore our favourite parts of Toronto with him. Be sure to follow along Instagram, as I share a lot more of our daily adventures using the hashtag #OnAWalkWithTheNegins.

Jumpsuit: Gap, Slides: Loeffler Randall, Frames: C/O Main & Central Clearly.ca
Stroller: C/O UPPAbaby Minu in Jake, Diaper bag: SkipHop
Sterling’s romper: Ollie Jones

When I began my hunt for maternity clothing I became obsessed with finding a pair of overalls. Something easy and comfortable that I can add layers to keep warm as the temperatures continue to drop.  It felt like everywhere I shopped, I could find denim overalls, but as soon as I searched for the pregnancy equivalent, there were none.

That was until, I finally hit up one of the few H&M stores that carried their adorable Mama lines (Eaton Centre, Hillcrest and Vaughan Mills) and there they were. My dream pregnancy pant. Skinny through leg but with enough room for my (giant) bump and easily styled with sneakers or heels.

Overalls: H&M, Turtle neck: Uniqlo, Coat: Zara, Frames: C/O Clearly.ca, Heels: Christopher Kane, Leash: HBC Collection, Taco’s Jacket: Home Sense

When building out your maternity wardrobe, it’s almost like building a capsule collection of essentials that can take you from baby-bump to post-baby. I felt it was most important to invest in pieces that could take you anywhere, from a business meeting, to a night out with the ladies with switching up your accessories and shoes.

It became clear during the planning stages of my wardrobe, that a “little black dress” would be a must-have, for the first time in my life. My closet is pretty full, so when most women would turn to a LBD for an easy fix for a wardrobe solution, I have always embraced colours and prints. But for my limited pregnancy collection, it was important to be practical with my purchases, ensuring that I would have the right pieces regardless of occasion.

Enter this stunning Isabella Oliver a-line dress from Carry Maternity. The fit flowed perfectly over my growing bump making it easy to wear throughout my pregnancy. I loved the subtle features, like slightly flared bell sleeves and perfect neckline. This effortless dress can be worn dressed up or paired with sneakers to take you anywhere.

Dress: Isabella Oliver C/O Carry Maternity,  Hat: BCBG, Frames: Ray Ban C/O Clearly.ca, Heels: 10 Crosby Derek Lam, Necklaces: Catbird, Jewlr

So growing a human inside you may be considered one of the most beautiful and natural things that you can do as a women (if you so choose), but it definitely comes with a fair bit of discomfort. And I have gotten a decent mix of the common and not-so-common problems. From the obvious first trimester nausea and daily vomiting, to the unheard of pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel syndrome, that has developed this week out of nowhere. Let me tell you, it’s been a fun few months.

When your body feels like it’s out of control, it’s hard to feel like yourself. You spend so much time trying to “feel better” that you no longer are doing things that feel natural for you. I found myself living in sweats and barely leaving the house, and if I did, I rarely bothered to do my hair or makeup. Definitely a different version of Barbara.

But on the days that I did decided do my typical routine, I felt better and more normal, and it dawned on me that even though I feel discomfort, I can still try to pull myself together. I’ve always had the mentality that on the darkest days to wear the brightest colours, in order to cheer myself (and others) up and I had stopped doing the common sense things that have brought me joy for all these years.

So here I am, 22 weeks pregnant, in 6 inch platforms, cute glasses and a crop top, and finally feeling like myself.

Top: A.L.C, Skirt: Topshop Canada, Frames: Joseph Marc C/O Clearly.ca, Shoes: Charlotte Olympia
See more of my style the bump posts here: 1, 2, and 3

At 21 weeks, my body is has changed drastically from what it was in early spring to where we are now, at the end of summer. My curves have become bumps and these bumps have and will continue to expand over the next 19 weeks, as baby Negin develops into a mini person.

The way that your body changes, during pregnancy, is really a lot to process and as your wardrobe comes smaller and more limited, it’s hard not to feel at times negative about your new body. It took me a while to realize that this body is now serving a different purpose for the first time. It’s no longer about me and my health, but rather about creating this new life in the healthiest way possible.

To help combat the negative feelings I was having, I stored away the clothing that no longer fit me, so each morning it wasn’t staring me in the face, tempting to be tried on. I found that styling the bump, in my current wardrobe, as I haven’t really gone maternity shopping yet, has been very difficult. One trend that I am loving is to show off my curves in tighter fitting dresses and pairing it with layers like blazers (fall’s hottest jacket), kimonos, duster coats and cardigans.

Dress: Lumiere Fashion (old), Blazer: Banana Republic (old), Boots: Zara (old), Eyewear: C/O Clearly, Watch: Daniel Wellington

Growing up, my family had our seasonal traditions. In the fall I looked forward to a fun filled day at Chudleigh’s Apple Farm, where we would fill bags with freshly picked apples to bake into pies and make into apple sauce. My memories of this magical farm were vivid, rows and rows of trees, adorable animals, tractor rides and the feeling of family and tradition.

It had been years since I had gone, when last year, Trevor and I decided to venture out to Milton, Ontario and pick some apples. I shared the wonderful experience of the late fall day on my Instagram here, here and here. We picked 2 bags of apples, and purchased some of the delectable pre-made pies, which inspired us to make our own, which we did a few days later.

I’ve since been looking forward to my return this year, not only for the beautiful scenery for some blog photos, but also to indulge in more of their delicious apples (and pies – I love pie). Last month, I got invited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of my favourite farm, and I don’t think I’ve ever RSVPed quicker to an event. I couldn’t wait to visit and celebrate one of my favourite spots, and bring Taco along for the adventures.

The weather was perfect for a late summer weekend, and we spent the day frolicking around Chuleigh’s and enjoying Sunrise apples right off the tree. Taco loved his first bites of apple and was in heaven once we got to the fields. We also enjoyed their savoury blossoms, new to their store this fall, with options like pizza, pulled pork, tuna melts and mac & cheese, I indulged in almost every flavour.

It’s easy to say that I cannot wait to go back again this season, picking up few more bags of apples and letting Taco enjoy the beautiful farm.

Dress: Isabel Maternity from Target, Sunglasses: C/O Main & Central by Clearly.ca, Sneakers: Superga, Earrings: Emily Valentine

It’s kinda hard to believe how fast this summer came and went, with very few things going exactly as planned. There’s a saying “you make plans and then life happens” which is how I would describe the last few months.

Heading into summer 2017, I was employed, living in a new house (with leaks, which is why I haven’t posted more of my home reveal {KITCHEN REVEAL}) and a busy summer of photoshoots, both for my blog and my studio’s clients. My husband, Trevor and I had plans to explore our new neighbourhood, and maybe a few day trips filled with hiking and adventuring.

Fast forward to June, I was one of many that was laid-off from my job, due to a huge restructure, I was then 2 months pregnant, which was planned – but didn’t expect it to happen so easily. Things got scary fast, with the notion of being unemployed and expecting, but as my supportive husband reminded me, I had a job, our studio and this blog, and I would be able to concentrate 100% on creating successful businesses out of them.

Plans were in motion, meetings came rolling in with potential clients and partners, and then everything changed. That loving husband of mine was hit by a car while commuting home from work on his bike. With a broken arm and bad concussion he’s been off work since the accident, and our days are filled with doctors and therapy appointments to help him regain his strength, and help reduce the symptoms of his concussion.

Timing is really everything though. If I hadn’t been off work, there is no way I would have been able to have been there for Trevor, who had always been there for me, to take him to his appointments and help him heal. A few weeks earlier, we also had found our dream puppy Taco, a 3 month old French Bulldog, and he was coming home to us the Friday after the accident. Taco, has been a lot of work, but also been a saviour for Trevor bringing him such joy and purpose during this difficult time.

Today, I am now 20 weeks pregnant, feeling great, and happy to finally be ready to share the news. Trevor is still on the mend, with his arm almost healed and undergoing aggressive physiotherapy but still suffering with constant headaches and light sensitivity. Taco is the sweetest boy, taking well to training and getting to know his sister Monkey (who is a little more resistant of this new guest in her home).

For fall, I’m not making any plans, but rather rolling with the punches, as that’s how things seem to be going anyways.

Dress: Farm Rio from Anthropologie, Sandals: H Halston,  Frames: Joseph Marc from Clearly.ca