Music Monday, New Music Friday, Playlists

15 New Christmas Songs for Your 2020 Holiday Playlist

December 14, 2020 No Comments

Regardless of the date on the calendar, the Christmas season isn’t officially underway until your local radio station first plays Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” Thanks to the power of music, while many of our holiday traditions will understandably look very different this year, Christmas carols will continue to bring us together.

As much as I love the signature songs of the season, I also love discovering original tracks and fresh takes on holiday classics to add to my annual playlist. Check out new Christmas songs from the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Sam Smith, Tori Kelly and yes, the Queen of Christmas music herself, Mariah Carey, below!

* Christmas 2020 Playlist *

“Merry Christmas to Your Face” by Jordin Sparks

Off her new holiday album Cider & Hennessy (her first full-length release since 2015!), American Idol winner Jordin Sparks sets the mood with a cute and catchy track about wanting to spend Christmas with your favourite person while opening presents, laughing and playing all day. Nothing sounds better!

“I Need You Christmas” by Jonas Brothers

Whether it’s because we’re growing up or just dealing with a drastically different “pandemic holiday,” it’s easy to miss the sweet innocence of Christmases’ past. The holidays spent “waiting for Santa to show [and] caroling late night” can sound like a distant dream sometimes. With this follow-up single to 2019’s “Like It’s Christmas,” Joe, Nick and Kevin Jonas deliver another heartwarming Christmas track about holding on to hope and that festive feeling.

“Under The Mistletoe” by Kelly Clarkson and Brett Eldredge

Kelly Clarkson is at the top of her Christmas music game! I still have her beautiful 2013 album ‘Wrapped In Red’ on repeat, and I’m so excited to add this merry new collaboration with country singer Brett Eldredge to the mix.

“Last Christmas” by Meghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor gives the Christmas classic “Last Christmas” new life on her recently-released holiday album, aptly titled ‘A Very Trainor Christmas.’ Meghan’s voice perfectly fits the vibe of the song, which will forever be one of my fave Christmas carols!

“Christmas Blues” by Sabrina Claudio and The Weeknd

Get ready to grab your special someone, turn up your speakers and slow dance by the Christmas tree! Sabrina Claudio and The Weeknd sound enchanting on this beautiful holiday song off of Sabrina’s new Christmas album of the same name.

“The Lighthouse Keeper” by Sam Smith

Every holiday playlist needs at least one mellow melody. Sam Smith, who had a massive year with the release of their third studio album, just delivered the tearjerker of the holiday season with this breathtaking new single, produced by ‘Love Goes’ collaborator Labrinth. “If any year could make me look forward to the sounds of Christmas, it would be 2020 as more than ever before we are yearning to be around our friends and family once again,” Sam said ahead of the track’s release. Amen to that.

“Joy to the World / Joyful, Joyful” by Tori Kelly

I challenge you to find a more fun rendition of “Joy to the World” — it’s an impossible task! Tori Kelly’s voice is simply incredible and will ignite an irresistible glow inside of you. I highly recommend checking out the rest of her new Christmas album, ‘A Tori Kelly Christmas,’ for 41 minutes of pure holiday vibes!

“Oh Santa!” by Mariah Carey feat. Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson

A long-awaited highlight of Mariah Carey’s new Apple TV+ holiday special, this Mariah x Ariana x Jennifer collab is undeniably the star-studded spectacle of the season!

Fashion, Favourites, Playlists, Reviews

May Favourites

May 27, 2020 No Comments

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links for Redbubble, SHEIN and Pura Vida Bracelets and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking these links.

As the famous saying goes, the show quarantine must go on.

Let’s start this off with an important PSA: PLEASE keep socially distancing and wearing a mask and/or gloves. If not for yourself, do it for your immunocompromised friends, parents, grandparents and neighbours. The better we keep this up, the sooner we can enjoy our beautiful summer weather!

As you do your part, stay comfortable, entertained and feeling your best with my latest faves across fashion, skincare, music, spring reads and bingeable TV.

Fashion

* Face Masks *

The Weeknd Mask, $20 // DNCE Mask, $18.82

If you haven’t already, get acquainted with our newest must-have fashion accessory. As I said in my last blog post dedicated to finding functional and fashionable masks, there’s no reason your PPE can’t be cute and true to your style.

Since I won’t be front row at their concerts anytime soon, I’m looking forward to receiving the two masks pictured above to show my support for The Weeknd and Joe Jonas’ band DNCE. Bonus: Proceeds from The Weeknd’s masks will be donated to the MusiCares COVID-19 relief fund, directly helping those affected in the music industry.

* Travel-Inspired Clothing *

Anthropologie, $80 // SIMILAR STYLES: Anthropologie, $188 (Hawaii/Aloha print); SHEIN, $17 (New York print)

It may be a total tourist move, but I love travel-inspired fashion pieces that represent my favourite cities.

Pre-COVID, I was supposed to spend the majority of this month jetsetting around Europe. 😢 When I found this Nice, France top while online shopping, I took it as a sign that I’ll be able to postpone my travels to when it’s safe to do so — and snap a picture of this shirt where it’s meant to be (and not in my front yard!).

Also, if you know me, you know I have a small addiction to buying anything and everything related to Hawaii — pineapple home decor, palm tree rings, you name it. I’ll take any excuse to spark my wanderlust and bring back those memories and feelings associated with paradise!

Let me know in the comments below which travel destinations you would rep!

Skincare

* Lip Sleeping Mask | Laneige *

Sephora, $13+ (or try Laneige’s Hydration-To-Go! Normal to Dry Skin set, also from Sephora, $38)

I always feared Laneige’s best-selling Lip Sleeping Mask was just an overhyped lip balm, but I was very pleasantly surprised when I first tried it. To test it out for yourself, I highly recommend picking up a mini Good Night Kit to also score a sample size of their popular Water Sleeping Mask. The lip mask wouldn’t be an immediate repurchase for me as you can get similar results at a lower price point, but it’s a great gift to a friend or yourself (#SelfLoveClub). Bring on the smooches 💋

I’ll report back here and on Instagram @angelaaaxo with my thoughts on the mask!

* Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask | Origins *

Sephora, $17-$33

This Origins leave-on face mask is one of the best I’ve ever used. Formulated with avocado and swiss glacier water, it instantly moisturizes and smooths skin well into the morning, giving you a beautiful dewy glow without breakouts or buildup. I use it as a once-a-week treat, so the $17 mini bottle is a great deal.

* Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner | First Aid Beauty *

Sephora, $29

I raved about First Aid Beauty’s Fab Faves line in my April Favourites post and it looks like I’ve found another personal holy grail. Toner is a recent re-addition to my nightly skincare routine and this FAB pick is gentle, moisturizing and perfect for sensitive skin. Also, can we take a minute to admire this visually appealing promo photo?

Fashion, Favourites, Playlists, Reviews

April Favourites

April 25, 2020 No Comments

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links for Ardene, SHEIN and Pura Vida Bracelets and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking these links.

After six weeks of staying indoors, I must admit that I may be getting used to quarantine life. I can’t say no to sweats (especially if they’re tie-dye) and I’ve never been so caught up with my shows and movies. But with this current quarantine likely seeping into late spring or early summer, you’re probably in need of new recommendations for your work from home wardrobe, skincare, music library, booklist and TV nights.

Look no further than this month’s Favourites list below!

Fashion

* Tie-Dye for Days *

SIMILAR: Ardene, $7.74 *sale* // SHEIN, $27 (exact from Ardene, sold out)

I’ve tried out tie dye sweats in the past but never found the perfect mix of A) comfort + B) a cute print. Just in time for quarantine, I scored the jackpot at Ardene with this $12 pair that I could absolutely live in. As long as you have a nice top on, they’re perfect for your work from home video calls (or at least Casual Fridays).

* Rings *

SIMILAR: Pura Vida Bracelets, $20.45 *sale* // Pura Vida Bracelets, $17.53 // Pura Vida Bracelets, $14.31 *sale* (exact coin rings from Pura Vida Bracelets, sold out; middle rings from boutiques in Maui, HI)

I’m currently obsessed with rings and love the new set I picked out from the vibrant, beachy and Insta-famous Pura Vida Bracelets. My pineapple coin ring (pictured) came with “aloha” engraved on the inside (so cute!), and this palm tree ring is super dainty and stackable. Keep an eye on Pura Vida’s Instagram to hear about new sales — I got these rings for $5 USD a piece.

*** Loungewear, Loungewear & More Loungewear ***

In case you missed it, last month I posted a guide to quarantining and online shopping with six Canadian stores, all of which carry cozy, must-have loungewear. From sweats to sweatsuits and basic tees, you can score big on affordable and versatile pieces.

Read here: Quarantine and (Online) Shop With Your Fave Canadian Stores

Beauty/Skincare

If you’re reading this before April 29, you still have a chance to save up to 20% off the following products during Sephora‘s mega Spring Savings Event!

*** Rub-A-Dub Refining Peel Gel | Saturday Skin ***

Sephora, $37

I didn’t know how little my past exfoliators were doing until I picked this up. My skin feels so smooth and every last pesky pimple laying under the surface has been drawn right out. I’ve definitely found a new holy grail product!

If any of you have tried Saturday Skin, let me know! I’d love to try out more of their products.

* SEA Surfer Curl Volumizing Mascara | Tarte *

Sephora, $16-$30

I’m very picky with mascaras, but I’m a big fan of this Tarte mini. It gives the perfect buildable lash curl without smudging or flaking, and it’s clean, vegan, and cruelty and gluten free. I’m sold!

* Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer | FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna *

Sephora, $25

Once you try this lip gloss, you’ll see why it’s so quickly become a top pick. Besides the fact that it has the Rihanna seal of approval, these shades (I love FU$$Y and $weetmouth) provide all the shine without the stick. I can’t leave the house without a bottle!

* Fab Faves To Go Kit | First Aid Beauty *

Sephora, $40

Everyone loves a good gift set and this one is a must-have for skincare essentials, especially if you have uber-sensitive skin like me. For just $40, you get a trio of First Aid Beauty faves for clean, smooth skin — their Pure Skin Facial Cleanser, Facial Radiance Pads and my personal top pick, the Ultra Repair Cream for intense hydration. They aren’t full size bottles, but the product goes a long way — and it’s an easy way to try out the line!

Music Monday, Playlists

September Playlist: Fun & Fresh

September 30, 2019 No Comments

With the leaves falling to mark the start of fall, I’m also turning a new leaf — and highlighting all the new music filling my ears this month! From star-studded collaborations to the latest bops from rising artists, a new season is the perfect time to take your music library to the next level. Plus, why not impress your friends with your fresh finds? No thanks needed — everyone deserves a bangin’ playlist.

Plug in your headphones or turn up your speakers, and get amped up to enjoy some of my fave new songs and the new artists you need on your radar.

“Like This” — Sofi Tukker

I haven’t stopped raving about Sofi Tukker for the past two months, after finally having the chance to see the party duo live in Montreal (at one of their unforgettable Animal Talk club parties, nonetheless). Side note: They put on a MUST-see show — and it takes a lot for me to say that!

They premiered this song in Montreal and I was immediately counting down the days until their ‘Dancing On The People’ EP release to get the studio version for my playlist. It’s an irresistible jam and always puts me in the best mood! Take a listen and try to prove me wrong. ㋡

Playlists

August Playlist: Songs of Summer 2019

August 31, 2019 No Comments

I could go on and on about the power of music, but I’m always amazed how certain songs bring us back to different memories, times and places. I can re-listen to songs from my childhood and be instantly reminded of old friends, family trips and various celebrations.

This long weekend, as another wild summer comes to an end, I’ve been riding the wave of nostalgia with all my fave songs of the summer on repeat. Keep scrolling to check out my final ode to Summer 2k19 and some of the new memories tied to the tracks from this month’s playlist!

“Only Human” – Jonas Brothers

Happiness this summer truly began August 23, when the Jonas Brothers blessed Toronto with their long-awaited Happiness Begins Tour (my first of five shows that I’m currently set to see on this tour – don’t judge!). If I’m being real, the JoBros are one of my OG favourite music acts, along with Hilary Duff and Taylor Swift, so this comeback was truly a BIG deal!

This groovy, ’80s-inspired tune is one of my favourite songs from the new album and it’s even better live. In terms of the big picture, “Only Human” is one of my top picks for official song of the summer, tied with “Old Town Road,” “Señorita” and “bad guy” (mentioned below). Let me know in the comments below what you would pick as your song of the summer!