We the north, indeed! As temperatures dip below zero and the reality of our new year takes shape, my mood is lifted by the challenge of maintaining my sanity with style and grace; no easy feat while navigating these coldest months of the year. Re-setting my intentions for 2015, I have focused my attention on refining my winter dressing habits. Over the years, I’ve been influenced by several stylish ladies, gathered inspiration near and far and distilled it all down to meet my own needs. In essence, I believe in buying what you love and letting it all come together based on the day and mood.
Underpinnings.
Each day, the first thing I consider is what under garments are going to allow me to feel confident and comfortable. This most intimate layer is important as it sits closest to the body and in these darker months, I’m drawn to brighter colours and a move away from all things black and grey. Top of my current wish list is the beautiful Gemma Stretch Lace Bra and Undies by Stella McCartney.
Tights.
No matter what I’m wearing – skinny jeans, faux leather leggings, jumpsuit or dress, I always select a pair of matte cotton or merino wool tights as my base layer of protection. High waisted, soft and slim fitting like a second skin, I feel protected against the cold and dampness outside yet not too hot once indoors. My go-to brands remain Falke, Wilfred (by Aritzia) and Bleu Fôret.
Outerwear.
A couple of seasons ago, I finally invested in a beautiful, leather down jacket by Japanese brand Sisii. This jacket moves effortlessly across all occasions while keeping me super warm and chic! This season, I’ve been eyeing the buffalo-check Gabrie coat by Isabel Marant Etoile, as it feels quintessentially Canadian with a dose of Parisian cool. Vintage, oversized shearling or fur jackets also feel ‘of the moment’ and a wise investment for winters to come.
Footwear.
We live in an era of functional yet fashionable footwear for winter slush and snow. My go-to’s this winter include the re-issued Cougar Pillow Boots in black and the beautiful Shearling Clog boots by No. 6. I also manage to work a pair of JCrew leather riding boots with long heavy socks into the mix.
Scarves.
Wrap up in the softest, coziest scarves to feel protected and chic. Scarves are timeless and multi-functional and they travel from outerwear to indoors effortlessly. My favourites include a lightweight silk-cotton version by Etoile in bottle green, a blanket scarf from Wilfred in a brightly coloured diamond pattern along with a heavy knit, burgundy infinity scarf made by a talented friend a few winters ago.
Hats.
Hats top off any look with panache and extra warmth. Most days, I reach for a trusted wool beanie from Aritzia, Supreme or Sandro to tame my tresses and cover my ears. On milder occasions my go-to remains an oversized black fedora for a more refined, Garboesque look. I’m working up my courage to see if I can embrace the northern fur vibe of the luxe trapper hat. We’ll see…
I’ll let you know how elevated my mood continues to be in a couple of months but for now I feel happy to seize the sartorial challenges of winter one day at a time.
About #WIBN Member Kathryn Daw:
Kathryn is a consultant offering brand storytelling and client services in the world of design and communications. Most interested in connecting the dots of authenticity across various brands and companies as they emerge and lead within today’s changing landscape, her work is anchored in a need for voices that are genuine, accountable and unique.
A fashion designer too, she’s happiest moving for the benefit of the bigger picture. She’s a great listener. She’s a seer of the details. And she has a knack for weaving pieces together in a most stylish way. Connect with Kathryn at Strange Colour
See Kathryn’s Pinterest board: Mood Winter Style 2015