Picture this.
You are still staring at your overstuffed closet, in a hurry to get where you need to be. There is a mountain of clothes strung all over the floor. You’re blinking back tears and the words “I have nothing to wear” are fuming out of your mouth.
Sound familiar?
For most of us, this is a scenario we have encountered too many times. As you read this, you may be thinking, “we’re in a global pandemic, I don’t go anywhere”. But you will! Oh yes, you will! As life continues to move forward, now is the perfect time to curate and create a wardrobe that makes you smile each and every day.
I’ve heard many times from clients that they find fashion intimidating and that to have great style, you have to spend a lot of money. Complete myth!
The key to having excellent personal style on any budget? A capsule wardrobe. If you haven’t heard this term before, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of classic items that work together in any number of configurations and across any number of occasions, taking you from the office to a dinner date to a night out with friends. It takes guesswork out of getting dressed, prevents you from being overwhelmed and it will last you years and years, saving you both money and time.
It’s true that the more options we have, the more complicated and confusing it can be to put together the perfect outfit. It can also be incredibly expensive and wasteful. Did you know that in Canada, the average person throws out 81 pounds of textiles annually? When you purchase garments that are high quality and you love, they last. This practice keeps unwanted clothing out of landfills.
There is a wealth of talent in Canadian fashion and supporting local is always in style. Read below to get started on your own capsule wardrobe staples featuring Canadian designers.
Blazer, Smythe
Launched in 2004, the founders of Smythe had a unified mission to perfect one thing: the women’s blazer. This piece, the Duchess blazer is impeccably tailored, 100% wool and will last a lifetime.
Black Pant, Smythe
This timeless pant silhouette is fabricated in a season-less wool. Pair with the Duchess blazer as a stylish suit or use on its own as a chic black pant.
White Button Down, Pink Tartan
If you don’t already own a white button down, you need one. It’s one of those pieces that is classic, chic, simple, understated, and can work for basically any and every occasion. Pink Tartans signature Trompe Loeil Shirt is a classic piece you will have for years to come.
Skirt, Hilary Macmillan
This is the skirt that every woman is searching for. The wrap silhouette is flattering for every body type and how great is the savvy 2-in-1 look with navy for daytime, black for nights on the town.
Denim, DU/ER
Every capsule wardrobe needs a go-to pair of jeans. The Performance High Rise Skinny have the perfect amount of stretch to hug your body, enhance your figure and leave you feeling confident at every turn.
Transitional Coat, THERMA KŌTA
One of the most challenging pieces to find is a stylish rain or transitional coat. Well, look no further. The Layla techno pleated raincoat not only makes an outfit shine, but its fabric was saved from ending up in a landfill. Proof that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand!
Bodysuit, Smash+Tess
Pair this piece with everything! Skip the traditional fitted top and go for an effortless tucked in look that is already done for you. Style tip: don’t be afraid to tuck in your top! This will give the thinnest part of your body more definition and shape.
Classic Bag, Brave Soles
The Caterina Leather Tote is the perfect shoulder bag. Classic, timeless and large enough to fit your laptop, ballet flats and everything you need to go from the office to happy hour.
–SARAH D’ARCEY Freelance Fashion Stylist
t: 604.355.7022
