Style Abroad
by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
I recently had the opportunity and privilege of traveling across the pond and experiencing first hand the European fashion climate. Now my immediate reaction I must admit, was a bit anti-climatic. Seeing that I had always revered our Euro market as stylishly progressive and aesthetically composed.
Although I am not saying that my initial instinct wasn’t warranted, what I am saying is that their fashion sense compared with ours was more greatly parallel than I had anticipated. Being in the field of fashion it is always said that whatever is big in Europe undoubtedly will cross over into the North America and dominate the season’s trend. For example take the waist coat or even the colored canvas upper rage of the past two summers. You could find evidence of this trend in nearly every single reputable designer collection and even some of the lesser known labels. Let’s just say my last trip gave no such glimpse into anything that forthcoming nor innovative. It was as if fashion was at a stand still and nothing excitingly new was on the horizon.
I must say though, that when you saw an outfit put together it was done so immaculately and was a true reflection of this motherland of fabulous culture – La Dolce Vita. However, for the most part it seemed to be that same old tune. The ultra casual look done in designer fabric and labeled garment. Its what I like to refer to as the $1000 casual ensemble. This is where the individual may appear to be wearing merely a loosely thrown together outfit accompanied by a quintessential pair of sunglasses, of course. If you were to tally the cost of that seemingly dressed down, effortless ensemble you will inevitably find yourself in the $1000 price range. Jeans – $200, Top – $100, Shoes – $200 , Sunglasses and Accessories $300 – Originality? Lifeless. To be quite frank we have been beating this same style to death for the better part 5 years. It may be time for us to pick on something else.
Now, I am not saying that I have lost faith in my perception of European style – no, not at all. If I were to take that stand point, then what would that mean to us here who have adopted that very same swagger in our personal wardrobes? And, certainly I am not saying that I had expected to see people draped lavishly in couture while perched at a local café sipping espressos. This was not my first trip to Europe and I am not a novice.
I guess what I am saying is that either we as North Americans have finally caught up to our stylish counter parts or for the first time ever in history, they are looking to us for their inspiration. Which in itself would be jarring to say the least. As a side note; the one certainty I can say as far as forecasting upcoming trends, is that, the skinny jean has finally left the building. And, its siblings the Staight leg and (affectionately nicknamed) “Boyfriend” jean has entered the playing field. Hey, I’ll take what I can get.
Overall I must say that all fashion aside, it was an unforgettable vacation in a beautiful culture. Maybe, it is best to leave work at home where it belongs and enjoy your time away.
Predicting Fall’s Fury and Winter’s Wrath
by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Every year, us avid shoppers are stuck with the task of re-vamping our Fall and Winter wardrobes to keep up with the current seasonal trends. And, although at times this task may seem daunting, I am here to provide clarity to this somewhat stressful venture. Allow me to let you in on a secret that many designers would prefer you not know; the overall look from year to year rarely changes all that significantly. The only real changes that occur are in the key colours, fit and era of the clothing. Sounds a bit absurd doesn’t it?
The very notion that these billion dollar empires merely, churn out the same looks time after time with only the slightest variation. Does seem a bit unlikely. Well allow me to prove my point and ease your shopping woes. Now, before I get started, let me just say that; Spring and Summer are a bit trickier to predict, mainly due to the lack of clothing the average person wears in these seasons. When its thirty degrees Celsius outside, you want to make sure you’re wearing as little as possible and that everything you are wearing counts. Within the grand scheme of looking fashionable, of course. These hotter months often throw us trend watchers for a loop. However; these rules don’t apply for the colder months.
Let me begin by saying that Fall is my favourite season of the year. We are allowed to layer, mix and match and utilize all the clothing that are at our disposal. And, seeing that Toronto is inhabited by these chilly months eight out the twelve months of the year, it tends to be the more important ones. From a style stand point, that is.
Okay let’s start: You can place a pretty safe bet that when the Fall collection of any major designer is announced, they will involve Autumn colours. Camels, browns, reds, orange are all safe to place in any closet at this time. (As a side note, this also a good time to start bringing out some of your more key Black favorites.) Whether in a hat, sweater or cardigan etc., these basic Autumn colours won’t fail you.
Investing in a Peacoat, military or leather jacket are always in style. These outerwear pieces are what I call the Fall staples and, will always be relevant this time of year. Buy scarves, it will quickly become your favorite accessory whether you’re a man or woman. It provides a pop of colour and much needed warmth to any ensemble. This would also be a good time to break out any and all dark denim, be it jeans, jackets or waistcoats. Just try not to wear them all at the same time, the days of the “Calgary Tuxedo” are far behind us. Just remember; “too much blue, is no good for you”.
The only thing you want to keep in mind as the years pass are the current cuts and washes of the denim. But, once they aren’t acid wash and the waist doesn’t stop inches from your chest, you should be alright. Boots are also a great addition to your repertoire. Lets face it, you had plenty of time to wear sneakers and canvas in the summer, its time for something more rugged. A nice pair of high-cut leather footwear will always look extremely fashion forward this time of the year. Be it brown or black leather , suede or patent, nothing says Fall like feet with some hide strapped to them.
Lastly, the must have of every Fall collection: PLAID. It surfaces its little head year after year whether as a tartan print, hunter’s plain or your standard flannel check. And, if you don’t believe me open up a fashion magazine from any Fall collection in the last six years, believe me its there. A plaid shirt, skirt, pant, jacket or scarf adds the right amount of edge and character to your fall pallet. Just always be aware of the hot colours of the season and buy accordingly. And, there you have it, Fall. In a nutshell.
This brings us to Winter. Now this out of all seasons is the easiest to predict. Without a doubt, black, white and grey are sure bets. Stick by your instincts and invest in a comfy and warm winter jacket with boots to match. It is often said that fashion and function aren’t always bedfellows but, hypothermia is never in style. Back to black, it is the official colour of a Torontonian winter. The only true deviation from this absolute is, the “it” accent colour that has been deemed its counter part. For instance this year’s colours are: aubergine (purple, to all us regular folk), teal, fuchsia and forest green. There is nothing wrong with bringing some fun to these often drab and depressing months.
Fur, be it genuine or foe, in moderation are also essential. I know there are many mixed feelings on this subject and the humane issue of promoting these practices. But agree or not, it is very bold and cozy addition to one’s wardrobe. I’ll leave it at that. Tweed and all other wool blends are also trends that you can count on seeing. Its classic, practical and most importantly warm. Don’t be afraid to mix traditional with new the more “techie” innovative fabrics. It’s a great way to look to blend the old with the modern. Let’s face it, in these colder months it is even harder to think of being overly stylish and current. So, I say let your outerwear do most of the talking. Embrace the Black!
What I’m getting at is, that this time of year is better served with a practical approach. However; it is not hard to still look good. If you stick with these basic rules of thumb, I can guarantee that every Fall and Winter from here on in will be done in style. Don’t be afraid to start buying your warmer clothing items when they start going on sale in December for the next year. If you buy according to these simple guidelines, you should have no fear of a cold reception.
Happy hunting!
