LIFESTYLE // Pre-Hawaii Haul

Hello there!
This time next week I'll be in Hawaii. How crazy is that?!

It's a lovely long weekend in Canada at the moment because of Family Day. I don't know who came up with that but it is just lovely and I took full advantage by heading to Metropolis at Metrotown this weekend. It is my new favourite place to shop with H&M, Forever 21, American Eagle (and Aerie most importantly!) and I had such a fantastic day. I may have gone a little nuts with my pre-Hawaii shopping and my bank balance is definitely feeling it. However, I got some really lovely bits I cannot wait to use!

First up, I headed out to get myself some denim shorts. This pair were the first I picked up and only pair I bought (which is crazy considering how many pairs I tried on!). They are from American Eagle (here), and are super stretchy and comfy. They have that whole distressed but still tailored look which is super cute.

I also ended up treating myself to a couple of the bralets from Aerie. I saw them online and wanted to order some but chickened out. I actually found some in my size in this store (because the store Downtown doesn't stock Aerie - Boo!) and could not help myself. The 'buy one bra and get one for $10' deal did not help. These bralets are the softest and comfiest I have ever tried and just perfect for lazing about the house (especially when you're in a shared house!). They didn't have too many colours in store but now I know they fit I may (okay will) order a few more before I head home. They are just so affordable and pretty and perfect!

Next up was a complete impulse buy. I was walked past a sunglasses shop and they had huge 30% off signs covering the store. That's enough to get someone into a store isn't it? I have wanted these sunglasses for a good year or so and I tried them on and, of course, fell in love with them again. I was incredibly tempted but she kept knocking money off so in the end I got them for the equivalent of £70 including taxes! It was about a 50% discount off of their full price (although I'm pretty sure their prices were a little higher than other stores on the high street - although I cannot confirm that!). Either way, I got them for about £50 cheaper than the average price in the UK so I am a very happy girl! They straightened the frames and tightened the arms a little and I am very happy with the service I got.

Lastly, I picked up socks. I know - so exciting! However, it is highly likely I'll be doing lots of walking and I haven't worn by hiking boots before (which are the most beautiful pair from The North Face and whilst they aren't fashionable they are pretty gorgeous for a pair of hiking boots). Of course I need socks to go with the boots and so I headed to a store of which I have no clue the name. Honestly, it didn't have one! I picked up the coloured socks for just $3 for two pairs and the grey ones for $6 for three pairs. Yes, I will get myself from socks from Roots before I leave Van but do I want to ruin them by hiking in Hawaii? Not really at $20 for two pairs!

I have a few other bits and pieces on my list, including a waterproof disposable camera - I must have one - which I will hopefully be able to find at some point this week/once I get there. It's so crazy to think I'll be lazing on the beach, reading about monochromators, this time next week. Sure, I have two assessments, 5 days of lectures and a mid term to get through first but I can so do this.

Have you been spending a little bit too much recently? Have you already started your holiday shopping? Have you been to Hawaii before and have some brilliant tips you want to share? Let me know!