Canadian Gift Guide

It’s time for my annual reflection on all things tied into Pantone’s ‘Color of the Year’. If you didn’t catch the big announcement when it was made oh, six months ago, they’re still staying in the cool family, but this year we’ve got a pretty pinkish-purple to infuse into our homes, wardrobes and beauty routines. I like waiting awhile before I write about the Color of the Year, simply because it gives companies the chance to play catchup and roll out their wares. So check out some ways to bring this radiant colour into your life.

Clockwise from Top Left

Danita Padded Demi Bra – $74 @ L’Agent
Pledge your allegiance to this pretty colour – but keep it under wraps – with this ultra-sexy balconette bra. And yes, it comes with matching brief options!

NYX Matte Lipstick in ‘Sweet Pink’ – $6
This affordably priced lipstick looks good on virtually any skin tone – the cool fuschia hue pops on pale girls and looks seductive on those with olive or dark complexions.

Jessica Simpson Ruffled Open Back Dress – $200 @ Nordstrom
Looking for a way to make a serious impact at that wedding you’re attending this summer? This floaty stunner delivers, with a serious zing of Radiant Orchid colour and a feminine open back design.

Fossil ‘Riley’ Watch in Rose Gold / Pink – $165 @ Hudson’s Bay
This watch is a fabulous way to add a touch of this ‘it’ shade into your wardrobe. The rose gold is timeless while the sparkling rhinestones and hot pink face make this an easy fit into any gal’s closet.

Radiant Orchid Dahlia Pillow Cover – $39 @ River Oak Studio
This Canadian-based vendor has a huge collection of pretty pillow covers, but my eyes lit up at the sight of this flower-inspired style. Plop it on a dark couch for a real pop of colour.

Standard Baggu in Orchid – $11 @ Indigo
For that chic eco warrior in your life, give her this reusable, foldable, stashable shopping bag that she can tuck in her purse and simply whip out whenever she’s making an impromptu purchase.

Jewelry Box – $8.99 @ Bouclair
Keep your fave gems close at hand in this adorable, faux gem-bedecked jewelry box. With a mirrored lid to check out your reflection, this would be an even better gift paired with a matching piece of jewelry inside!

SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE The Face: Radiant Femme Artistry Set – $49 (on sale) @ Sephora Hmm another advantage to waiting to write this post? You can snag sale prices on all of the remaining pieces available from Sephora’s annual collaboration with the colour experts at Pantone, like this versatile kit that offers up two lip products, a nail polish, a blush, and a multi-tasking body luminizer.

Dragee Dot Bow Tie – $15 @ The Tie Bar
Although admittedly Radiant Orchid is a more feminine colour than past ‘Of The Year’ selections, guys can still get in on the act with a sleek pair of socks or a charming bow tie, like this one. Not into the bows? You can also pick up a pocket square or regular tie for your guy.

Bonus entry into my Graduation Gifts giveaway! Tell me in the comments below – which of these radiant picks would you most love to gift or get?