Magpie Jewellery Blog

This week’s guest blog is by Jenna Farrell, a freelance PR-professional who returned to Ottawa after two years spent in Toronto. When she isn’t meeting with clients or reading the headlines, she can be found scouting garage sales for vintage treasures. You can follow her on Twitter @JennaJF or check out her blog Navy and Gold (This post is styled by Victoire, but I swear neither myself or Magpie own shares in it, we just get a long really well).

With temperatures increasing to 45 degrees last week, I think summer has clearly arrived… and it means business!

Returning to Ottawa after a few years spent in the big smoke, I think it’s safe to say that there isn’t anywhere I would rather be during the dog days of summer than the nation’s capital. Coming back to this city has been quite the wake-up-call for someone like myself who, as a student, didn’t venture too far from the Byward Market. The Ottawa I knew before ceases to exist and has instead blossomed into a city of hidden gems, action and most notably, STYLE.

Ladies and… well, ladies. I give you the latest and greatest of summer, the Ottawa chapter.  Styled by none other than last week’s guest blogger’s store Victoire Boutique, my one-stop-shop for all things vintage and crafty.

As convenient as it might seem to pick-up a few things at your local grocery store, nothing quite says summer like fresh fruit and vegetables from our local farmers. Take time this summer to visit one of the many farmers markets this city has to offer.

Victoire Totem dress by Suzabelle, Victoire Small Leather Pouch by Deborah Adams

With close proximity to both the Rideau Canal bike path and the Gatineau Hills, biking has been a popular activity for locals for quite some time. But who says you can’t look good while cruising around the city? Not I, in fact I am an advocate of incorporating fashion with that helmet of yours (I realize I’m not wearing one in these shots, this is irresponsible. Kids, don’t try this at home). Nonetheless, don’t restrict yourself to cut-offs and your boyfriend’s over-sized t-shirt when out and about on a bike this summer.

Victoire Corsica by Ella Peru , Victoire St. Tropez Short by Ella Peru, Victoire sunglasses by A.J. Morgan

Long live the patio season! Here in Ottawa we are blessed with a long list of patios to choose from. If you’re like me and live in an apartment the size of a walk-in closet, getting out on one of the many patios this city has to offer is a great way to soak up some vitamin D. Murray Street Kitchen Wine and Charcuterie provides more than a patio, but an oasis that is tucked behind the kitchen creating a private atmosphere decorated with greenery, exposed brick and modern furniture. Aside from the delicious and unique menu , they have Steam Whistle Pilsner on tap which is a deal maker for this girl.

Victoire Print dress by Aryn K

I recently discovered the Fat Cats here in Ottawa. Baseball might not be a sport for everyone, but sign me up for whatever involves greasy food, cheap beer and foam fingers.

Victoire Timothy Pant by Dace, Victoire Drapery top by Juma

Don’t be deceived by the scorcher that has been these past few days. Rainy summer days are to come, and when they do, there’s nothing quite like getting cozy with a good book.  My summer read this season includes A Single Girl’s To-Do List by Lindsey Kelk. It’s the perfect light-hearted and witty humor I like to indulge in after a long summer day. If you haven’t been to Raw Sugar Cafe yet, I suggest you go. Do it now. Not only does it provide comfy couches and delicious treats (including beer on tap), but its eclectic décor and overall vibe is one-of-a-kind in Ottawa.

Victoire Petit Chapeau by Marcia, Victoire Cream Blouse by Velour, Victoire Pipit Skirt by Birds of North America

The list of hot spots and to-do’s continue to grow in the nation’s capital as Ottawa gets its groove back. Get out there and enjoy summer in style my fellow Ottawaians! This is the season to explore what our city has to offer as well as to take risks with your own personal style. Don’t be shy to rock those six-inch heels on a Friday night or dust off those flare jeans (yes, they are back in style)!

For even further incentive to embrace the season (drum roll please) – a give-a-way! Harper Collins Canada has graciously provided me with three signed copies of Lindsey Kelk’s A Single Girl’s To-Do List. Three lucky individuals who follow @MagpieOttawa on Twitter and tweet “Give me the @HarperCollinsCA Single Girl’s To Do List” before friday at 12pm will win this delicious summer read!

Thanks Jenna! We’ll post the winners on Friday around noon:)

PS. All Photos taken by John Paille (@JohnPaille on Twitter)