the fresh perspective...

Praise Okwumabua’s go-to fancy hair styles

Hi there! I’m Praise and I’m the owner of Freshair Boutique! I’m also one of the three senior stylists that work at this shop and I have attended my fair share of fancy events and parties. While doing a little scavenging in my iPhone, (I’m a selfie connoisseur) I found some of my favorite ‘fancy do’ images.

In my opinion, what usually makes a hairstyle fancy is based on a few things. 1) Volume, 2) Stay in placeness (not a word…) and 3) Height. While I have seen many formal fashion houses and party goers rock the slick bun (no height OR volume), this look does have number 2, staying in place abilities.

So when you are styling your hair for your next fancy thang, remember my three points. Or don’t, I’m cool with whatever you’re cool with! Oh yeah, I forgot another really easy way to gussie up your hair do is to add a little something. Brooches, sparkly pins or even bow ties can really take a bland hair do to the next level!

Have a good time out there and remember to be safe!

That’s the fresh perspective…

Do you stuff stockings? Here are some ideas!

The holidays are fast approaching and if you’re like me, ahead-of-the-game-Annie* over here, you know what everyone is getting (if you haven’t purchased it already). My attempts at helping out anyone who is a last-minute-Lucy* is in this post! I have compiled 10 ideas you can give as stocking stuffers directly from amazon! The prices range, but my main goal is to help you to stop being a last-minute-Lucy and bring this gift giving season to the fore front of your brain. You’re welcome! ;)

5 oz FLASK

LION HEAD MAGNETS

BEST EVER LAUNDRY BAR

HANDHELD ELECTRIC MILK FROTHER

STAINLESS STEEL REUSABLE STRAWS

CARHARTT BEANIE

CHALIER FAMOUS PAINTINGS SOCKS

ANIMAL POT LID LIFT

ALTOIDS

BURT’S BEES BODY LOTION 2.5 oz

*insert Andre or Larry if you choose to make this personalized. no judgment!

the fresh perspective...

How to look ‘cute’ and stay warm. Is it possible?

Ahhh the age old question! Can comfort be formal? Well, well, well…. I’m going to say this. “it depends". What kind of function are you attending? Are you receiving an award? Are you just a bystander? Are you outside or inside?

This time of year, it’s hard to navigate -55 with a ‘cute look’. I believe that one can look ‘cute’ and still be warm and comfortable but it just takes some conscious effort. If you are wearing Sorels, maybe have a full face of make up and a kick ass up do? If you’re in a toque, maybe some sky high boots to balance it out?

As long as you’re going with a look, it’s all good! Toques, scarves and a well fitting winter parka or coat can always look sharp. If you are recieving some award or are an honorary guest at an event, as long as you are inside, you’re good! Anything goes when there are controlled temps!

That’s the fresh perspective…

Wordless Wednesday

Up do? Up don’t!

Hey Boys...

Commonwealth Manufacturing = The Perfect Shirt.

Have you ever wondered if the perfect shirt exists? Well, we got you. Please do yourself a favor and go check out Commonwealth Mfg. Located in downtown Winnipeg at 290 McDermot Avenue, on the 4th floor. Take a walk through their work space and see exactly where the shirts are made and go ahead and try one on for size.

The detailed craftsmanship and precision put into these shirts are what makes them timeless. Invest in one of these and it’ll be with you for many memories. Not to mention the fact that you’ll look great.

This company is less focused on branding and pushing their product, but rather focused on creating the best possible product, selling itself. Each shirt is designed to be simple, classic and enduring, so you don’t have to worry about it going out of style.

Another cool thing about them is they recently announced a ‘Take-Back Program’. They will now be accepting any unwanted Commonwealth shirts, regardless of their condition in exchange for 15% off your next CMFG shirt. They will also fix these shirts up to offer them in a pre-owned shirt collection at reduced prices.

Have you tried these shirts? What are your thoughts?

-Freshair Boutique

The Fresh Perspective.

How To Get Organized - Tips From A Beginner.

Let’s get real. How many times does a day end and you realize you’ve pushed the same task over to the next day, and the next day, and the next day?... Procrastination is a killer and I am a victim…But, we do it to ourselves!

Ok enough whining.

The truth is, there is plenty of time in a day. I know we all have very different commitments, expectations and jobs, but there are ways to stay on top of it all.

Tip 1 – Put Away Your Phone.

This is a no brainer. Your phone is the devil of procrastination. Always dinging and calling your name out to refresh news headlines, Instagram, Pinterest, or whatever your poison is. It will all be there later, when you actually have time to decompress at the end of a busy day.

Tip 2 – Lists.

We love lists. Even if you write and re-write the same list just slightly modified, it works! It allows you to have a visual of what your daily/weekly tasks are. Plus, having a visual of crossing out accomplished items gives you a good reason to pat yourself on the back. You may see a trend in what task is always left for last. Maybe force yourself to do the most dreaded task first next time and see how you feel. Another little tip I like is to cross out tasks with a highlighter, rather than a pen. This allows you to still see what’s written and makes the accomplished item more significant.

Tip 3 – Be Realistic.

Don’t expect to meal prep for an entire year, or create a full fashion line in one evening. Set small, realistic goals. If you happen to surpass what you initially planned then HECK YA! Grab yourself a beverage and celebrate.

Tip 4 – Take A Breather.

Hey, if you have a day where you feel like you just can’t focus, allow yourself to take a break. I know for some people this isn’t an option, as we all have different expectations and demands. All I ask is that you don’t get down or beat yourself up if you have a lazy day. We’re all human and we do A LOT. Binge watch that show, eat those fries, take that nap.

FYI - while writing this post I stopped to look at my phone five times…. I’m still working on listening to my own advice. Cheers!

 - Freshair Boutique