[bc_video video_id="6324798365112" account_id="2226196965001" player_id="rkljM4WDEg"] Don't let your old wine bottles go to waste! Learn how to turn them into adorable self-watering planters with the help of lifestyle expert Leigh-Ann Allaire Perrault's guide to cutting and styling glass bottles. Does the sound of cutting glass make you nervous? Don't worry—Leigh-Ann has a solution that is simple and safe, so keep on reading to find out more. From cutting the bottles, to constructing the planter, and crafting your own hand-stamped plant markers, this guide takes you through the entire process step-by-step. Get ready to DIY!

What you'll need:

• Empty glass wine bottles
• Sticky label remover
• Bottle cutter contraption
• Plastic bins
• Hot water
• Ice water
• Sandpaper
• Cotton rope
• Black pantyhose
• Metal cutlery
• Hammer
• Metal stamp set
• Black marker or paint pen
• Herbs or plants (of your choice)

Bottle cutting

1. Collect a bunch of glass wine bottles. If you don't have enough empties of your own, you can buy them here.
2. Start by soaking bottles in water to remove paper labels. 
3. Use a sticky label remover to remove the adhesive. (Check out this adhesive remover from Amazon here). 
4. Once bottles are clean, score each on a bottle cutter contraption. (Find a bottle cutter from Amazon here).
5. Place scored bottle in plastic bin and pour hot water on the seam.
6. Immediately move bottle into ice bath to break the glass along the score line.
7. Sand the bottle edges to make them smooth.

Safety tip: Don't forget to wear safety glasses and gloves when you're cutting glass.

Constructing the self-watering planter

1. Cut a piece of cotton rope and tie a knot in one end.
2. Using black pantyhose, cut a 2” round piece and make a small hole in the middle to pull rope through.
3. Place the rope through the neck of the wine bottle so it hangs out of the bottle mouth and the pantyhose and knot sit inside the bottle neck.
4. Plant the herb of your choice inside the bottle neck half, and fill the bottom half of the vase with water.
5. Allow the rope to absorb water and travel up to the plant.

Plant markers

1. Using cutlery from the thrift or dollar store, hammer spoons and forks flat.
2. Using a metal stamp set, hammer letters into the face or handle of the spoon. (Get your own metal stamp set from Amazon here). 
3. Using a black paint pen, cover the stamped letters, then immediately wipe off to darken the font.

[bc_video video_id="6324517548112" account_id="2226196965001" player_id="rkljM4WDEg"] With Orthodox Easter just around the corner, it's the perfect time to celebrate with a traditional recipe for lamb soup! Chef Ivana Raca shows us how to make this delicious soup that combines lamb fresh off the spit with hearty vegetables including carrots, celery, and onions. Plus, ramp up the traditional Greek flavours by finishing it off with some sour cream and sprigs of dill. You simply can't go wrong with a steaming hot bowl of soup, and this recipe is here to prove it.

[bc_video video_id="6323719712112" account_id="2226196965001" player_id="rkljM4WDEg"] Carrots are a classic holiday side dish that everyone adores, but we can all agree they start to get a bit dull after a while. Well, carrots don't have to be boring at all! Excite your tastebuds and add a bit of imagination to your dish with Chef Randy Feltis' mouthwatering recipe for glazed carrots with ranch, lemon, pomegranate and pistachio.

[bc_video video_id="6323717658112" account_id="2226196965001" player_id="rkljM4WDEg"] Elevate your décor this Easter with a fun (and easy) DIY project! When decorating for holidays, we spend so much time focusing on the tablescape that we often forget to add a little something nice to other parts of the room. That's why DIY expert Monique Taylor Yee Shui has put together the perfect solution—adorable bunny wreaths that will bring the Easter spirit to your chairs! Whether you want to add a gorgeous bunny ear wreath adorned with flowers and greenery, or a cute bunny sash to the back of your chairs, the choice is yours—and we've made it simple for you to follow along with this step-by-step guide!

Wreath 1: Bunny wreath with flowers

What you'll need:

• Circle wreath form (metal or foam)
• Wire hangers
• Wire cutters
• Soldering tool (for metal wreath form)
• Faux flowers & faux greenery
• Twine
• Jute or yarn
• Hot glue
• Rope
• Pin

Method:

1. Cut the wire hangers using wire cutters. Shape the hangers into two bunny ears, then use the soldering tool to join the bunny ears onto the metal wreath form. If you don't have a soldering tool, you can also use a foam wreath form and stick the wire hanger ends inside.
2. Weave some twine through the circle part of the wreath form to create more stability for your greenery and flowers before you start gluing them.
3. Wrap the bunny ears with jute or yarn. To do so, add some glue at the base of the ears, then start wrapping using an over-under technique. Wrap approximately ten times in one direction, then go underneath and wrap in the opposite direction to prevent it from sliding. As you get higher on the ear, you may need to add glue to keep the jute/yarn in place.
4. Disassemble the flowers from the stems and add a generous amount of hot glue to the base of each flower. Stick the flowers and greenery into the gaps between the twine on the wreath form. As you add more greenery and flowers, they will stick to each other and become more stable.
5. (Optional) Add some hidden treats by tying plastic easter eggs onto the wreath and placing your favourite sweets inside.
6. To attach the wreaths to your chairs, string some rope through each wreath and secure them with a decorative pin.

 

Wreath 2: Bunny sash wreath

What you'll need:

• Burlap
• Felt
• Stiff fabric (TBC)
• Sewing supplies
• Fur material
• Hot glue
• Pillow stuffing

Method:

1. Take your burlap and measure it around the chair. Leave a little bit of extra room so you can easily slide the sash around the chair.
2. Cut out two felt circles. Add two slits in one of the circles for the burlap to go through. Cut out 4 ear shapes using a stiff fabric (TBC). Sew the ear shapes together, leaving an opening at the top so that they can be turned inside out.
3. Sew the ears onto the felt circle without the slits. Thread the burlap through the slits in the other felt circle and sew the end together.
4. Sew the pair of felt circles together, leaving an opening at the top. Flip the felt inside out so the seam isn't exposed.
5. Cut out the fur trim into a circle shape. Add some hot glue to the back side of the fur circle and stick it felt circle.
6. Stuff the circle with some pillow stuffing and glue the hole together.
7. Slide the sash over your chair.

[bc_video video_id="6323156383112" account_id="2226196965001" player_id="rkljM4WDEg"] Spring is finally here and with it comes fresh new style advice! If you're in need of some inspiration, you've come to the right place, because fashion expert Lily Yange has put together 4 dazzling looks to show off one of this season's hottest trends: the maxi skirt! What better way to celebrate the new season than with a fun and flowy maxi skirt? That's right, it's time to put your mini skirts away and make room for a whole lot of maxi!

Look 1 - Canadian tuxedo

Nothing says style like a classic Canadian tuxedo! This look combines two of this year's hottest trends—double denim and denim maxi skirts—into one show-stopping outfit.

Denim skirt

Price: $59.90 If you want to look cool and stylish this season, then look no further than this skirt! Denim skirts are THE most popular maxi skirt option for 2023, and this extra long mid-rise skirt shows us exactly why.

Denim dress

Price: $79.90 Denim is oh-so-hot right now, so why not add to your collection with this jean jacket-inspired dress? With cut-off sleeves and a lapel collar, this piece can be worn as a dress, a top, or a jacket—take your pick!

Platform leather heeled boots

Price: $249.00 Add the ultimate finishing touch to your look with these bold platform leather boots. These knee-high heels feature a retro rounded toe, and are the perfect piece to balance out your favourite denim maxi skirt.

Look 2 - Perfect pleats

You're never too old to be too cool for school! This look mixes up trendy metallics, funky platforms, a timeless biker jacket, and a posh pleated skirt into one chic outfit that radiates cool schoolgirl vibes!

Halterneck bodysuit

Price: $29.90 A basic bodysuit is a staple in everyone's closet, and this one from Zara certainly fits the bill. It features an elegant halter neck, and is available in 5 different neutral colours—making it the perfect base for any bold outfit.

Faux leather jacket

Price: $79.90 It's no secret that leather jackets are the epitome of cool. This belted faux leather piece features a lapel collar, long sleeves, and a front zip closure. Try it on for size and all of your biker chic fantasies are bound to come true!

Belted pleated skirt

Price: $149.00 This gorgeous maxi skirt takes pleats to a new level! We've all seen pleated skirts before, but with its asymmetrical cut hem, this modern take on the classic style is fun, flirty, and downright fabulous.

Angular sunglasses

Price: $13.99 No look is complete without a stylish pair of sunnies! These angular sunglasses feature tinted, UV protected lenses that will keep your eyes happy, and your outfit on-trend.

Lug sole ankle boots

Price: $79.90 Step into style with these ultra-modern lug sole ankle boots. Featuring a bold block heel and fitted fabric upper enclosure, these striking boots are sure to pair perfectly with your cool aesthetic.

Minimal flap shoulder bag

Price: $45.90 It's metallic, it's mini, and it's made just for you! With a wide buckled strap, lined interior and magnetic closure, this trendy shoulder bag truly has it all. What more could you ask for in a purse?

Look 3 - Sporty chic

Skirts are not just reserved for fancy occasions—don't be afraid to dress them down for an everyday, street style-inspired look. Take one look at this sporty chic outfit and it's plain to see just how easy it is to rock a skirt while you're on the go!

Cargo pockets parachute skirt

Price: $100.00 Cargo pants are all the rage these days, so why not be a little bit more bold with a cargo skirt? This parachute skirt with cargo pockets checks off all of the boxes when it comes to nailing the effortlessly casual aesthetic, which makes it the perfect starting point for your sporty chic look!

Ultra-cropped loose logo tee

Price: $29.95 Whether you're hitting the gym or turning the sidewalk into your own personal runway, this logo tee is the versatile piece you need! It's loose, boxy, and ultra-cropped for a trendy active look that makes casual style easier than ever.

Colour blocks jacket

Price: $69.00 Block out the world in style with this green and cream colour blocked jacket. It's made from light nylon fabric, and features an adjustable drawstring hood to keep you feeling warm, but still looking cool!

Acid wash cap

Price: $29.90 The best way to cap off a casual look is with a hat! This acid wash cap from Zara is sure to be the icing on the cake for any outfit—especially when you're aiming for sporty chic style.

Athletic platform sneakers

Price: $49.90 Sneakers and skirts go together like peanut butter and jelly! That's right— you can still keep your feet feeling comfy even when you're wearing a skirt. These athletic sneakers come in a combination of neutral colours, and feature a platform sole to have you looking on-trend, and feeling even better all day long!

Rubberized crossbody bag

Price: $59.90 Don't you just love it when fashion and function collide? Get the best of both worlds with this rubberized crossbody bag! It features a handle, an adjustable shoulder strap and a large zippered main compartment to keep all of your goodies safe and secure.

Look 4 - Business babe

From office meetings to drinks after work, this outfit has got you covered! It brings sophisticated elements together with timeless style to create a stunning look that will truly take you anywhere.

Knitted bandeau maxi dress

Price: $150 USD For extra versatility, don't be afraid to make your maxi dress look like a skirt. This knitted dress with a semi-sheer skirt is stunning on its own, but it also leaves ample opportunity for layering, so be sure to have some fun with it!

Ribbed tank top

Price: $13.99 Pop on a cute tank top to transform your dress into a stylish skirt! This fitted tank is made from a soft, ribbed cotton jersey material, and features wide shoulder straps with a rounded neckline.

Vogue blazer

Price: $228.00 Transition from day to night and elevate your look with this classic single-breasted blazer. It's cut from a softly structured stretch fabric that is guaranteed to hold its form day in and day out—and better yet, this stunning blazer is sustainably made from recycled materials.

Margaux sandal

Price: $350.00 Spice up your outfit and add a subtle hint of romance with the help of these high-heeled sandals. These dreamy shoes are crafted in Italy from a durable, luxurious suede, and feature a sultry wraparound tie closure.

Ibukun tiny tote

Price: $733.50 USD The final piece of the puzzle is without a doubt this gorgeous patent leather purse by Daniel Diyepriye. The Ibukun tiny tote is made from the finest leather, and is embossed with a signature jigsaw motif. It also features all of the functional elements you need for your everyday activities, whether it's working, travelling, shopping, or relaxing.