If you’ve ever uttered the phrase - “I love it on (insert name of friend, family member, favourite blogger or aspirational celebrity), but I couldn’t pull it off” - this post is for you. Brace yourself, it’s a long one, but I promise there’s a light of new perspective at the end of this tunnel.

As someone who unabashedly wears my fashion heart on my sleeve, I’ve earned somewhat of a reputation within my circle as being “stylish” (I use quotations to intentionally emphasize the subjectivity of this adjective). I embrace this wholeheartedly (we all have our crosses to bare) and am delighted when friends solicit my sartorial advice.

What doesn’t delight me? When people openly comment on an outfit element they admire - “I love that pleated skirt”. “Those leather pants are beautiful” (such a nice compliment, thank you) - then follow it up with, “but I could never pull it/them off”.

Say what?! This reaction bothers me but for a few reasons:

1. It’s basically textbook self-deprecation.

2. Your compliment was insincere (not that I care about an unsolicited option but why bother lying?).

3. It’s rooted (I believe) in a lack of confidence when it comes to personal style.

Let’s unpack this.

I adamantly believe that anyone can “pull off” anything because at its core, the notion of pulling something off is a state of mind. That’s right. You’re in control of what you pull off. After all, this blog is all about breaking so-called rules, so consider “you have to be stylish to pull off __” our latest venture into fashion contrarianism.

Step one: can we agree to the distinction between a piece of clothing or an accessory not fitting your personal style (totally fair), and not quite knowing how to incorporate said item into your repertoire? Thank. You. Very. Much.

As far as the former, I respect this element of the editing process. Knowing what does and doesn’t jive with your style is important.

And to address the latter, I’m offering some advice to reframe your thinking next time you see someone rocking something you truly admire. Rather than dismissing an item, here are some tips to understand how to make it work for you.

Do it in a Familiar colour

Think of your “safety blanket” colour. Maybe it’s black? Whatever colour makes you feel most comfortable and confident, and that works most seamlessly with the majority of your clothes is where you should start. A pair of coral culottes (for example) will feel much more intimidating than a pair in navy.

do it in a go-to SILHOUETTE

This tip is especially helpful when you’re looking to embrace patterns, prints, and/or specific fabrics. Say you’re finding yourself drawn to polka dots but you can’t shake the fear of looking a little too “50’s retro”. Instead of diving head first with an A-line skirt, try incorporating the print on a simple silk camisole or button down blouse - a shape or silhouette you already wear regularly.

warm up to it GRADUALLY

Full disclosure: I’ve given plenty of clothing items a “house wear only” trial run before committing to keeping them. Sometimes it’s a matter of seeing yourself in an item that’s outside your comfort zone inside your comfort zone (home sweet home). Test driving an outfit while performing a mundane task (vacuuming maybe) can help you get used to the way it feels as you move around and catching glimpses of yourself in the mirror will help you start to recognize yourself with this new look. After a few times it won’t feel so foreign (unless of course it doesn’t, in which case take that as a sign it doesn’t fit your personal style as we noted above).

Next time you admire an outfit on someone else, it’s my hope you can find a way to take what you love about it and “pull it off” using these tips.

XO

Like the majority of people, I’ve been working from home for two weeks now and it has been an adjustment. Working from home wouldn’t necessarily be my choice (given the option) because I much face-to-face interaction. That said, the transition to WFH life hasn’t been so bad (goodbye commute, hello extra half hour of sleep).

There is one thing I’ve struggled with - how to avoid being “all dressed up with no where to go”. Getting dressed is my favourite part of the day, so feeling like I don’t have a reason to do so is hard to handle. But, I’ve found a happy medium - hello knitwear. My sartorial saving grace has been pieces I can still have fun styling that are a step back from what I’d usually wear to the office.

Here are the six work from home essentials I’ve been living in.

1. Light cardigan

   I picked up this Oak & Fort cardigan a month ago because I fell in love with the colour. The light weight of the knit makes it easy to layer, but keeps me cozy.

2. Knit joggers

   These Zara knit joggers are incredible. So much so that I Grabbed two pairs - beige and black. They’re a heavy gauge so they hold their shape really nicely. A much better alternative to sweat pants (IMO).

3. Slouchy sweater

   You can never have enough sweaters (hello “spring” in Alberta), and this H&M v-neck knit has been a go-to. Easy to tuck into pants or skirts and great from layering over a slip dress.

4. Bodysuit

   I’m a big fan of these Zara bodysuits. They’re amazing comfortable and easy to wear in place of the silk camis I’d usually wear.

5. Culottes

   Even though these aren’t knitwear, I’m living for all my culottes these days (especially this new Zara pair). They’re like stylish pyjamas.

6. Basic T-shirt

   Theres nothing better than a simple basic tee. I usually refresh my staples (black/white) once a year and these new ones from Zara are made of tencel (the best), which is a slightly heavier fabric than cotton so they drape nicely and don’t wrinkle.

For as long as this work from home life lasts, these essentials will be on repeat (sorry sweatpants and hoodies). Because is there such a thing as being “overdressed”? Oscar Wilde didn’t think so and neither do I (don’t @ me).

Enter the capsule wardrobe. Pair these key pieces with your tried and true basics and - voila - you have a repertoire that gives you the update you crave, without splurging to replace everything you own.

Here are the 10 pieces in my spring capsule wardrobe this year.

1. White trOuser

A great pair of pants is an essential if you work in an office like I do. In spring I crave a lighter pallet and a white trouser is a great alternative to black (hallelujah). FYI: they can absolutely pull double duty outside of an office setting (read: I would LOVE them with a crop top).

2. Pastel blouse

It’s not summer yet so a full-sleeve blouse helps during these transitional days. The colour though adds a fresh vibe and this year you can’t go wrong with any ruching or ruffle details. You could certainly swap out pastel for printed, but either way, a light, airy blouse is a must,

3. TreNch coat

If it’s not already, this should be part of your collection of staples. But I’m including it on my list in case you’re inclined as I was to switch it up by introducing a deconstructed version. I kept in the typical beige colour but I love the flow and drape of this style because it feels a bit less “buttoned up” than its classic equivalent.

4. Printed dress

You probably expected the print to be floral (“florals for spring, groundbreaking”) but I’m having a moment with dots, Not polka dots, per say, but these abstract, brush-stroke style prints have been calling to me lately. I foresee this one in heavy rotation, work or play.

5. Slip dress

The more I can feel like I’m wearing daytime appropriate pajamas the better (you’re seeing the decision behind my robe style trench coat in a new light, aren’t you?). So slip dresses are right up my alley. In my opinion, they work best for spring because I don’t love them with tights, so I embrace the warmer temperatures I’ll be pairing this piece with boots for now and mules for summer.

6. White blazer

Same argument I made for the white trouser applies to my spring blazer choice. Lighten things up with a crisp white and you won’t be sorry you did (I’m not).

7. SIlk slip skirt

Again with the pajamas (busted). A silk slip skirt is just so damn versatile and comfortable so, naturally, it had to make the list. If it’s your first time, go for a solid colour (blush, cream or a soft grey would be beautiful), but I’m a seasoned vet so I opted for a fun animal print (in black and white though, let’s not get carried away). Treat it like its sister the slip dress, but with more options for tops (see classic white t-shirt - another staple).

8. Pleated skirt

Obviously I couldn’t pick just one skirt so I included two, To me, a pleated skirt gives off a completely different vibe and I can’t help but love the dimension. Though black might seem like a contrary choice for spring, I love it paired back to this pastel blouse for contrast. One final plea on behalf of pleated skirts everywhere…they’re so fun to twirl and sashay in.

9. Shoulder bag

I reserved the final two spots on the list for accessories, I usually only invest in a new bag (or two) seasonally and my pick this spring is a small, shoulder style with an updated woven texture, When I found it my internal dialogue said: “Botegga, but make it affordable”.

10. mules

Last, but certainly not least, my go-to shoe for this spring season is this pair of camel mules, Nothing beats the convenience of a shoe that requires no strap fussing and looks amazing with everything.

There you have it, my picks for a 10-piece spring capsule wardrobe.

It goes without saying the warmer temperatures are a huge motivation, but tropical vacations also get me really excited because: outfit planning. In January, the notion of wearing something other than a sweater and boots is just so thrilling (spare me from the monotony!).

Be under no illusion: if you’re looking for tips to help you pack 30 outfits with only 4 items, I am not your girl (I mean I could but why?!). I wouldn’t say I’m a victim of over-packing but I would definitely say I take strategic advantage of every square inch of my suitcase.

Here’s how I tackle packing vacation essentials by focusing on three categories:

Clothing

First, I consider the activities I’ll be engaging in on my trip (for me that’s typically pool, cocktails, dinner and repeat). This way I’ll know what I need. Then I focus on three key variables for my clothing:

colour pallet:

I try to stick to three-four colours for all my pieces. This way I’m not locked into outfits, but instead enjoy the freedom to mix it up in the moment based on my mood, knowing everything “matches” (I hate matching as a concept, but I’ll set that aside for now in favour of the general understanding of the word). For this trip it’s black, nude, camel and white.

balance of items:

I always plan for an equal number of tops and bottoms with variety factored in (varying sleeve lengths, textures or materials; skirts, shorts and pants). But always an equal number to avoid nonchalantly throwing in an extra shirt for the sake of it (but then not wearing it). I also add a few one-piece outfits (dresses or jumpsuits) to round out the selection.

versatility:

With the exception of one or two elevated (read: fancier) items, I try to pack items that I can dress up or down with accessories. For example, instead of bringing a cotton top for day and a satin top for night, I’ll bring a staple silk tank that can pull double duty. And I can do this because everything plays together in the same colour pallet (there is a method to my madness).

Shoes

Unlike with clothing, I try to show (some) restraint when it comes to footwear. What can I say? I’ll pay to check a bag, but under absolutely no circumstance will I accept an overweight fee.

Since shoes are heavy I keep it simple: two pairs for day - flats or slides, and two pairs for night - heels or mules. They usually end up being two black and two white/nude pairs because they’re the most versatile (don’t @ me). I’m also debating sneaking in a pair of leopard print, heeled sandals…we’ll see how much space is left (do as I say, not as I do).

Accessories

This is where I (generously) afford myself the opportunity to go wild and have fun. By sticking to basics with clothing and shoes, you can inject pizazz to your vacay style by packing a few key accessories:

Hats:

In the case of a beach vacation, a great hat (or three) is essential. I like to stack them one on top of another, stuff them with small items like bathing suits, and put them at the bottom of my suitcase so I can pack around them. This avoids having them smushed in transit.

Jewellery:

In addition to my regular repertoire of dainty pieces, I love incorporating a statement piece of jewellery on vacation. This time it’s a mixed-media statement necklace.

Bags:

Always one for day to tote the beach necessities (sunscreen, novel, sunglasses, air pods) and one smaller crossbody option for evening. On vacation you don’t want your everyday, heavy bag so consider materials that a more lightweight (my go-tos are natural woven or vegan leather).

I hope this list of vacation essentials inspires a new found enjoyment of packing ahead of your next journey!

I thoroughly enjoy the thrill of a great deal hunt. So in the spirit of my newly discovered love for a pre-Christmas excuse to treat myself, here are a few of the sales I’m most excited about this year.

Aritzia: clientele up to 50% off

If you’re familiar with Aritzia, you’re familiar with the infrequency and sometimes comedy ($5 off? Mmm okay.) of their sales.

So when an Aritzia sale comes around, I tend to take advantage to check a few items off my wish list. This year that includes some key winter accessories and year-round wardrobe staples.

1. Daria ankle pant: I already have a pair that have been well worn for 5 years (and still going strong). But I’ve been wanting to upgrade to this ankle length that wasn’t previously available.

2. Wren sweater: I love that this isn’t your typical looser knit. The weight and drape is beautiful.

3. Cashmere knotted hat: a twist on a winter necessity, which I am here for.

4. Jotham pant: I’ve had my eye on these in the camel colour way and now is probably as good a time as any to pull the trigger.

melanie auld: up to 60% off

This is hands down one of my favourite jewellery brands and Black Friday coincides with their biggest annual sale. I love their minimalist aesthetic and how simple and wearable their pieces are - plus they’re a Canadian brand (woo!).

I’m planning to grab a few pieces I’ve had my eye on for quite a while (see, patience is a virtue).

1. The Arc ring: I’m planning to stack this with my engagement and wedding rings, because well, the more the merrier.

2. The Dainty Arc ring: this will be an excellent one to wear alone on my right hand or mix and match with the other MAJ rings in my collection.

3. Herringbone chain: I cannot wait to layer it with the daintier necklaces I already have. Perfect for everyday wear.

bOnlook: up to 30% off

Although I don’t need to wear glasses 24/7 (just to, you know, drive and binge Netflix), I love collecting fun eyewear. And this (ahem, Canadian) brand is amazing.

I’ve got my eye on two sets of frames to work into my repertoire.

1. Imagine Plus: this “Terra” colour is a great alternative to basic black. Nice contrast without being too harsh.

2. Icone: I don’t currently have a two-tone pair and I’m loving this colour combination.

FYI: they recently began offering blue light filter on the lenses and I’ll never again go without. It’s seriously made such a difference, drastically reducing the headaches I used to get from staring at screens for extended periods of time.

There you have it - the Black Friday sales I’m watching out for and the items I’ll subsequently be stalking via tracking number. Happy shopping!

When leopard prints came back in a big way this fall, I had a hard time jumping on board.

Full disclosure - I felt a tad of déjà vu, having gone through a major leopard obsession circa age 13 (for context: there was an entire matching duvet set involved).

But my initial aversion dissipated after finding a few (okay more than a few) fantastic leopard pieces that blended into my standby fall wardrobe of skinny jeans, wool hats and ankle booties perfectly.

If you’re cautious about how easily you could incorporate leopard into this season’s repertoire, here are a few pieces to consider.

1.leopard cardigan

So simple for weekend wear, thrown on over a simple cami and skinny jeans. It would also work well place over a neutral slip dress and knee-high boots.

2. Leopard blouse

Infuse office attire with a silk blouse. Wear it alone or underneath a blazer. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, play with print mixing (hint: the pin stripe works like a neutral here).

3. Leopard slip dress

More versatile than you think. Dress it down with a cozy cardigan and chelsea boots, or up with a leather jacket and pumps or sock booties.

Hopefully this inspires an infusion of leopard into your wardrobe. And if you’re already on the bandwagon, let me know what leopard piece you’ve got on repeat.

"Don't wear white after Labour Day."

"Don't mix metals in your jewellery choices."

and my personal favourite, "Black and navy don't match."

Over the years I've taken great pleasure in testing these "theories" and pushing these "boundaries".

In fact, that's how this blog (a 10-year-in-the-making passion project) earned its moniker. I love fashion. It's my greatest passion. But I'm not blind to the reality that this industry is one that likes to put labels on things (including people) and attempt to fit those things into perfectly, predetermined boxes. Not for me, thanks. I believe there are only two questions you should ask yourself when putting together an outfit:

1. Do I love it?

and

2. Am I presenting my authentic self (whether it be who you are today or who you aspire to be)?

If the answer to those two questions is yes, then mission accomplished. Go forth and conquer.

And if your inner rebel can relate, give a black with navy outfit a try like I've done here.