Some people say that clothes make the man. We wouldn't go that far, but taking a little interest in your personal style can certainly have an impact on how others see you and boost your self confidence. It can be difficult to know where to start, so Timbercreek Communities has put together a style guide for men. Try it on for size!

Streamline

Most people have a tendency to hang on to old clothing items “just in case” they'll need them later. You won’t. If you haven’t worn it during the past year, chances are you won’t wear it this year either. Do some late season spring closet cleaning and throw out or give away anything you haven’t worn in over a year. It will de-clutter your closet and free up space for the new or old items that you actually wear.

Step Into Some Colour

Fact: there are more shoe colours than brown and black. So go ahead guys, have a little fun with colour! If you are uncertain about what colour shoes to wear with what colour pants, this handy reference chart takes the guess work and memorization out of the equation.

Gym Shoes Are For The Gym

Speaking of shoes, remember this: gym shoes are for the gym. Sure they’re more comfortable but nothing dresses you down more quickly than trudging around town in gym shoes. Invest in a comfortable walking shoe. Your feet and your fashion sense will thank you.

Scope Out A Fashion Show

If you’re looking for some guidance to step up your style, you don’t need to fly to New York, Paris or Milan to attend a fashion show. Flip through a slideshow of images from a men’s fashion show online, or browse some street style photos. You might just be inspired by the latest trends.

Clean Your Wallet Out Regularly

A big, bulky wallet is bad for your back, uncomfortable to sit on, and cumbersome to carry around. It can can also throw off the lines of your clothing. Just as you do with your closet, make sure you clean out your wallet regularly and lose anything you don’t use. You’ll feel a little a lighter and more streamlined.

Timbercreek hopes this style guide for men helps you look and feel your best. To help find your home with Timbercreek Communities, please visit our website.

Making New Year’s resolutions is pretty easy, but not keeping them can be even easier! Before you give in, you should know that there’s an app for that. Check out our top picks in today’s blog post.

Clear up some brain space

Whether you’re committing to a healthy new grocery list or a project with your coworkers, sticking to your resolution is going to require a place to save and share ideas, reminders or lists. We love apps that clear brain space. They help you get things done in an organized way without having to remember much. If this sounds like a dream come true, check out Evernote and OneNote.

Watching your wallet?

For money-related New Year’s resolutions, Mint is a must. We love this app because it connects all of your accounts, credit cards, loans, bills, etc., in one place, providing you with a more honest view of the money that you do (or do not) have. Create savings goals, budgets and overspending alerts to keep yourself financially focused for the next 12 months.

My Fitness Pal

What more could you wish for than a healthier, happier 2017? There are a ton of different apps to choose from when it comes to monitoring your health and fitness goals. My Fitness Pal is our top pick because of its extensive food log, making calorie counting super easy. You can also use My Fitness Pal to track your exercise, helping you stick to your workout schedule.

Don’t go it alone! Download an app that can help you keep your New Year’s resolutions all year long, Timbercreek’s amazing apartment communities are located in several provinces across the country. For more information, please visit our website today. 

Your bathroom is one of the most regularly used rooms in your apartment so why not make it your own? Adding a touch of style to your bathroom can be easy to do and completely reversible (in case you want to switch things up in the future). Get started this weekend with one of these creative bathroom decorating hacks.

(Photo: 236 Richmond Road)

Put Up a Stylish Shower Curtain

A new shower curtain can add a little personality to any bathroom, no hard hat or tools required. Pick up an affordable curtain from your local department store, or go big with a unique curtain created by an independent artist on Etsy.

Add a Statement Rug/Bath Mat

You’ll thank yourself for finally adding some style to your bathroom each and every time you walk into the room or step out of your shower. Save yourself a trip to the store, and a few extra dollars, with a fun and affordable DIY bath mat project.

Arrange Some Art

Sometimes it’s more about the arrangement than the art. Just about anything can look stylish when arranged and hung creatively. Consider a cool gallery-style display using ceramics you already have on hand, or mimic this creative arrangement made with postcards. 

Get a Plant

We recommend plants that are happy in humidity and fine without direct sunlight. Favourites include the Boston Fern, a Spider Plant or bamboo, each of which offer their own unique aesthetic and air-freshening capabilities.

Store Things in Style

What’s better than functional decor, especially in the bathroom? Create a stylish storage box that’s both full of character and completely practical, or try one of these witty ways of storing toilet paper.

Give your bathroom the love it deserves with a mini makeover. Start this weekend with one of today’s home styling tips that are easy and reversible. For more information about spacious Timbercreek Communities apartments, please visit our website. 

Roommates have been there day in and day out, whether they wanted to be or not, and you couldn’t have gotten through it all without them. Make the holidays your time to say thank you, starting with one of these clever gifts!

Key holder

A key holder can be a useful gift for a roommate who’s always losing their keys. If you’re the one who seems to be losing things the most, give this communal gift as a promise that you’ll take more care.

Shave Subscription

An electric shaver is a lame Christmas gift. A Shave Subscription is an awesome Christmas gift. Give your roommate the gift that keeps on giving with high-quality blades sent each month, perfectly on cue.

Great Power Great Electricity Bill Crewneck Sweater

Does your roommate often forget to turn off the lights? Tell him or her how you really feel with this hilarious sweater.

Beard Bib

No more little hairs all over the bathroom sink, a Beard Bib guarantees cleanliness, plus hilarious photos.

TubShroom The Revolutionary Tub Drain Protector

Hair in the shower drain belongs high up on the list of Worst Roommate Pet Peeves. Who knew the solution to this endless struggle would be just $12.99 on Amazon?

Hair Tie Bracelet Cuff

A Hair Tie Bracelet Cuff may sound crazy, but it totally makes sense. Anyone with long hair can attest -- it’s annoying getting wrist dents because of tight hair ties. This bracelet keeps your hair tie stylishly handy without any uncomfortable indentations.  

Wireless Earbud Headphones

Tired of your roomie complaining about your loud music? Wireless Earbud Headphones have a tangle-resistant design and cords that hang comfortably behind the neck.   

Candle Lovers

If you’re looking for a gift that you and your roommate will enjoy, gift a candle this holiday season. Choose a seasonal scent like Frosted Cranberry or Marshmallow Fireside. This gift gives back, making your apartment smell like a cozy winter wonderland.

Say thanks to the gal or guy with one of these creative roomie gifts. For more information about Timbercreek Communities Apartments, simply visit our website

Make a fashion statement at your next holiday party! Discover the hottest trends of the season in today’s post from the fashion and lifestyle experts at Timbercreek Communities.

Add a little sparkle

Sparkles just scream holiday. Make any outfit pop with a sequin piece (a top, or skirt, or jacket). Not comfortable wearing a sparkly piece of clothing? Accessories, such as a purse or headband, will do wonders for your look without being overwhelming.

Embrace the LBD

The Little Black Dress, affectionately known as the LBD, is truly timeless and the perfect go-to for your next holiday party. Add that sequined headband you found on Etsy and your outfit is complete.

Day-to-night leather

You’ll thank yourself for choosing leather as you rush from the office to your holiday party. Leather leggings are especially easy to dress down or dress up, depending on where you’re headed. Now all you need is a pair of high heeled shoes that you can comfortably run from one event to the next in.

Pretty in tweed

Tweed is never out of style, especially during the winter. If you’re looking for a way to incorporate it into this season’s wardrobe lineup, check out this adorable sparkled tweed coat, perfect for the holidays—and looking pretty.

Blazers and jeans

A business casual dress code can be the worst. What does it mean?! Before you demolish your closet looking for the perfect (not too formal, not too corporate) look, consider blazers and jeans. This pairing is always in style and an excellent option for men and women alike. Ladies, check out this warm and classy look complete with a camel blazer and seasonally-appropriate plaid scarf.

Killer suits with lace-up shoes

Men, this one’s for you: The ultimate way to look your best this holiday season is to find that killer suit that compliments your body. It might be easier than you think. GQ has created a breakdown of what you should wear depending on your height, weight and body structure. 

We hope these style tips help you look amazing at your holiday parties this season! If you’re on the hunt for an amazing apartment to match, start with Timbercreek Communities. Our rental communities are located in five provinces and over two dozen cities. For more information, visit our website today. 

Another school year has begun. If you’re already feeling stressed, make sure you know how to relax as the pressure builds. The Timbercreek Communities blog team has some simple tips on how to feel less stressed after the first 2 weeks of school.

Go for a 10 Minute Walk

It doesn’t take much for stress to creep into your life. Fortunately, it doesn’t take much effort to relieve that stress, once you are aware of it. Going for a short walk is a great way to quickly put your mind and body at ease. If all you can spare is 10 minutes for a stroll around the block, take the time and do it. If you feel you need a bit more stress relief, try to count your steps as you walk. When you find yourself thinking (especially the same thoughts that brought on the stress) simply bring your mind back to counting your steps.

Step Away from the Screen

You have a lot of work to do, which means you need to look at your computer screen constantly. Be sure to take regular breaks from the screen to avoid increased stress. The artificial light from computer and TV screens can affect melatonin production and interrupt circadian rhythms. This prevents deep, restorative sleep and causes an increase in stress and stress hormone production. To stay productive, you need to step away from the screen with regular breaks.

See Your BFF

Humans are social animals. The feeling of being connected with others is a great stress reliever. Socializing with trusted friends can bring about feelings of safety, security, belonging and enjoyment. It reminds us of the big picture and what is actually important. So, the next time you feel yourself getting tense, reach out and connect with a friend.

Yoga

Yoga has been used for thousands of years to maintain a healthy, flexible body and a stress-free mind. You don’t have to be able to twist yourself into a pretzel shape to reap the benefits. The simple act of focusing your breath and attention as you move will help you deal with whatever life throws at you. This video will help you focus and flow.

Cook a Meal

You can cut the stress out of your day as you cut up some vegetables for dinner. Cooking can reduce stress for a number of reasons. The act of chopping can be a release, the smell of food and spices can function as aromatherapy, and the act of asserting some control in a situation is good for stress levels. In the kitchen you can be in control, as you focus on the task in front of you. The best part is you get to eat after you cook!

You’ve worked hard to get where you are. It will take even more hard work to get where you want to go. Learning to control your stress will add to your overall enjoyment of life. For more information on Timbercreek Communities in London and Waterloo, please visit our website.

Whether you are starting, or returning to school this fall - or you are finished school and are starting a new phase of your life, a rental community makes a lot of sense for 20 somethings. Here’s why we think apartment communities are ideal for young people.

No Maintenance

You have enough on your mind (school, starting your career etc.) without having to devote extra time and attention to household maintenance. When you choose to live in an apartment community, you never have to stop what you are doing to make time to shovel snow, or mow the lawn. Renting an apartment also means no additional maintenance fees, as opposed to life in a condominium. If there is a problem with the plumbing or an appliance stops working, it’s not your problem to solve. All you would need to do is send a message to your property manager, or make a phone call. You also don’t have to worry about upkeep on the exterior of the building you call home.  All you need to be concerned with is keeping up with the life you are building within your apartment and beyond its walls.

Increased Safety

Let’s face it, 20 somethings go out late and come home even later. Coming home late at night on your own can be scary. An amazing benefit of living in a rental community is increased safety. Unlike a house (where there is only a single door or window preventing potential intruders from entering) an apartment offers several secure layers of entry. There is the front door of the building and fire doors before you arrive at your apartment door. Many Timbercreek rental communities, such as Avenue Apartments (137 University Avenue, less than 1km from the University of Waterloo) also offer controlled lobby access. Having several neighbours around you in your apartment community also increases your safety. Your fellow residents may also be returning home late at night, and may even watch out for strangers trying to enter your apartment.

Extra Amenities

Most 20 somethings have a busy schedule. You may be scrambling to fit essential things into your day like laundry and workouts. The more you have close to home, the better. When you live in a Timbercreek rental community, you have access to extra amenities that make life easier and more comfortable. A great feature of many apartment buildings is on-site laundry. Packing up your dirty clothes for a trip to the nearest laundromat is a time waster and a hastle. If you drive, it is a huge bonus to have access to on-site parking. Staying active is easy as your apartment building will often feature a free fitness facility -- even swimming pools are accessible to you at many Timbercreek properties including The Dorchester (1231 Richmond Street, London - 0.6 km to Western).

Savings

Many 20 somethings find themselves in debt due to tuition fees and student loans. A big benefit of renting a Timbercreek apartment (instead of renting part or all of a home) is the money that you’ll save. Rent is usually much lower in an apartment and you can expect to save on heating costs. Heating and cooling a controlled space costs less because apartment buildings retain heat from other apartments, so your winter heating bills will be much less high than they would be in a house.

Accessibility

When you live in a Timbercreek rental community your building will be accessible. You will find ramps at entrances and exits, elevators instead of stairs to climb, and one-level floor plans which make life easier for anyone with physical challenges to come and go, independently.

Community

Perhaps the most important reason why living in an apartment community is great for 20 somethings is the community aspect. When you live in a house, you may have a roommate and see a next-door neighbour or two, from time to time. In a rental community, you have next door neighbours, across the hall neighbours, laundry room neighbours, and gym neighbours (many of them in your age range). Making friends in an apartment community can be easy, you just need to smile and be polite to the neighbours you cross paths with.

Convenience, affordability, accessibility and community are hallmarks of apartment communities -- making them a great choice for a 20 something. For more information on Timbercreek rental communities in London and Waterloo, please visit our website.

To have spending money, or staying out of debt, and start saving for tomorrow is a smart plan when your attending college or university. Many businesses are looking for part-time workers all year round. Check out today’s post for four tips on how to find work on or near campus and start making money today.

Take advantage of on-campus services

If you have yet to visit your university’s career services centre, this might be the best place to start. Most institutions have entire departments devoted to helping you identify your skill set, clean up your resume and prepare for interviews. Residents at London apartments (1267 Richmond Street), have it especially easy. In one click you can sign up today for an appointment with a Career Counsellor at the on-campus Student Success Centre at Western University (1151 Richmond Street), located just a 15-minute walk away from your apartment.

Attend a job fair

Job fairs offer an awesome opportunity to meet with multiple employers at once. Each year in September, for example, the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Guelph and Conestoga College all work together to sponsor the nation’s largest Career Fair. This year’s fair is set for Wednesday, September 28th, in Waterloo’s RIM Park.

Search your university’s job bank

Tired of hearing that you’re too young or don’t have enough experience? No online employment database will cater to your demographic more than your university’s job bank. Employers who post there are specifically open to hiring students. By using this database you have better odds of finding a job that is flexible and appropriate for your experience level and skill set. Students at Wilfred Laurier University (75 University Avenue West), located near Waterloo Apartments, have access to over 5,000 jobs posted each year online via the Career Development Centre’s Navigator.

Network, network, network

Finding a great job is often the result of being connected to the right person at the right time. Staying engaged in on-campus activities is fun and might help you connect with a person who has the contacts you need to get hired today. Your university may also host networking events. The University of Waterloo hosts Employer Information Sessions which make mingling with potential employers easy.

Timbercreek Communities wishes you good luck in your search for a job. For more information about apartments located near your university, visit our website today.

University is the place where if something can happen, it probably will. Luckily, the help you need is only steps away from your Timbercreek Communities Apartment. Today’s post from the Timbercreek Communities highlights five resources all students will want to know about as they return to campus this fall.

What is holding you back from success? Whether your grades are mysteriously slipping or you simply can’t pick your major, the Registrars Office is your resource for academic solutions. Locate this spot on campus early, as it is essential for signing up for classes, changing your degree or creating a game plan with an advisor to stay on track for graduation. At the University of Toronto, the Registrar’s Office is located at University College (15 King’s College Circle, Room 157), only a 15-minute walk from The Maitlands Apartments (36 Maitland Street).

2. Wellness Centre 

Feel better when you feel sick with the peace of mind that help is only a short walk away. Visit the student wellness centre to see a health professional. At Western University in London, Student Health Services (1151 Richmond Street) is just a five-minute walk from The Dorchester Apartments (1231 Richmond Street).

3. Gymnasium

The campus gym is your spot to stay in shape, keeping your brain sharp and your body strong so that you can power through the school year. From Metropolitan Towers (57 Union Street East), students can take advantage of the gymnasiums, squash courts, pool, studios, rock climbing walls and more at the Physical Activities Complex (200 University Avenue West) at the University of Waterloo, a 10-minute bike ride from home.

4. Academic Centre

Not every class you take will or should be your cup of tea. You may need a tutor to walk you through coursework or give your paper a second glance. At the University of Ottawa, the Student Success Centre (SASS) is home to the Aboriginal Resource Centre, the Academic Writing Help Centre, mentoring programs, counseling services and more. The SASS main office (100 Marie-Curie Private, 4th Floor, MCE) is only a 10-minute walk from Stewart Apartments (146 Stewart Street).

5. Student Life

The social aspect of university is just as important as staying healthy and maintaining your good grades. Create a new network of friends and resources and learn a new skill by joining a club. At Hamilton’s McMaster University (1280 Main Street West), a five-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Glen Terrace Apartments (44 & 50 Glen Road), you can learn all about the campus clubs online.

Timbercreek Communities wishes you an awesome start to the 2016/17 school year! For more information about Timbercreek Communities Apartments, many of which are conveniently located near universities, visit our website today.