A Letter to Sleeping Bag Coats

Dearest Sleeping Bag Coat,

According to every fashion girl/model-off-duty/style blogger, you are a bit of an abomination. You counter everything I've spent all year working on by concealing my shapes, swallowing up my legs, and making me sweat underneath your excess weight. In reality, I should hate you. (Un)Fortunately, I don't. When push comes to shove, it's freezing outside. The arctic has hit Canada and like a comforting sip of hot chocolate, you make me feel warm and cozy inside and out. You're like a knight in shining armour, only slightly less shiny and much softer to the touch.

via elle.com

As much as I cringe at my reflection in the mirror or my impossible-to-fit-the-screen snapchat selfies, I still can't help but embrace you. You may not be a chic fourrure or as classy as wool, but you make me forget I live in the great white north for just a moment. You also make me feel like I haven't left my bed ALL DAY. And for that, I'm eternally grateful. As for your fashion value, some designers have chosen to let you in to their exclusive club (like Acne Studios, Balenciaga, and MSGM), while others have rejected you entirely. But a true fashion statement is prepared to accept and even welcome the rejection like a fashion faux-pas on a mission. Congratulations on being the most questionable winter staple and the most challenging one to love. Frankly, I still love you.

Happy winter,
Bella

#ForTheSakeOfFashion: Starting 2016 With The Hair Tuck

With the New Year rapidly approaching (it's tomorrow, in case you hadn't heard), it's time to start thinking about the trends that will jumpstart 2016. Rather than looking back at the most popular trends of 2015 such as Addidas Stan Smiths, fringe, and floppy hats (to name a few), let's look deep into the future and attempt to predict the next fashion trend to plague the (non)fashion world.

Based on my deductions, it seems that "turtleneck hair" may be the next mind-boggling fashion look of 2016. What is "turtleneck hair", you ask? According to several well-versed fashionistas (such as my personal favourite, The Man Repeller), turtleneck hair is the act of tucking your hair into your turtleneck. Though this isn't new within the fashion world, it has recently grown in popularity for some unbeknownst reason.

via honestlywtf.com

Could it be the faux bob it creates that allows us to change our hair without cutting off those beloved locks?

Could it be the cozy feeling it gives us by keeping every strand on our head snuggled inside our sweaters?

Could it be that our hair just needs a safe haven from that tumbling snow?

OR could it be that there is no reason at all?

Is it possible that we, the fashionistas, are doing it, "just because (it looks cool)"?

Whatever your reason for contemplating this trend, don't overthink it. Sometimes it's best to give it a shot and see if it feels like you. The benefit of looking just like a fashion girl? Well, that's just gravy.

Happy New Year!

(and ponder it),

Bella

'Tis The Season To Be Fluffy

Winter is all about fluff. Snow tumbles on the ground only to transform into a bundle of white fluff that children make snowballs out of and throw at innocent passerby. As Buble would say, "It's a marshmallow world in the winter" and frankly, that sounds delicious. So, baby, it may be cold outside, but at least we can rely on fluff to keep us warm and cozy and compliment our Starbucks cup. This season, there is nothing more glamorous than some extra texture and for those who are not big on fur coats, it's time to take a look at some other alternatives. 

Here are ten fluffy pieces that I ADORE in the winter time. Take a look and get inspired.

The Fluffy Jacket

For those who are accustomed to wearing fluff, the fluffy jacket is an excellent style choice that will keep you feeling fashionable and warm simultaneously. It adds instant chic to your look and will make you want to keep that coat on no matter where you go.

via shopcade.com

The Fluffy Scarf

Not ready to commit to a coat? No matter. The fluffy scarf is a small accent  that will keep you feeling snug without the extra weight of a jacket. It can be subtle or bold, but make sure it's true to you.

via fashioninspirationblog.com

The Fluffy Vest

A fluffy vest is yet another alternative to the fluffy jacket. You may not be ready for all that fluff and I completely understand. This way, you can ease into it with a sleeveless variation of your typical jacket.

via fabsugar.com

The Fluffy Handbag

This year, fluff has been transferred to our handbags and we have Karl Lagerfeld to thank for that one. You may not want to WEAR the fluffy, but you can always carry it on your shoulder.

via lolobu.com

The Fluffy Sweater

This look is an easy fluffy go-to. Not sure what to wear? A fluffy sweater is ALWAYS the answer at this time of year.

via connectedtofashion.creatorsofdesign.com

The Fluffy Skirt

While this may seem bizarre to the average onlooker, the fluffy skirt is definitely a fashion statement. It defies expectations and when done right, it can look super cute with just about any slim fitted sweater.

via atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com

The Fluffy Hat

Nobody does a fluffy hat quite like a Russian fashion editor. Mira Duma reminds us that a fluffy hat can be chic without looking like over (read:road) kill.

via forum.purseblog.com

The Fluffy Muffs

It rhymes, therefore it is. Didn't some philosopher say that? Muffs are a great alternative to the hat. Breezy day? This invention is your chic solution.

via elleuk.com

The Fluffy Shoe

No, this is NOT meant to be practical or keep you warm. However, it's whimsical and that in itself is a reason to try it.

via topshop.tumblr.com

Fluffy Mittens

Who needs fingers? If you want to avoid frostbitten hands, do as the fashionistas do and wear fluffy mitts. They may seem silly now, but just wait until you slip them on. Toasty.

via carolinesmode.com

I hope you'll feel inclined to try one of these fluffy options this winter. Nothing beats the cold quite like a fluffy fashionista.

XOXO,

Bella

A Parka Story

via www.globalstreetsnap.com

My favourite fashion stories are those that involve style choices made #forthesakeoffashion and not #forthesakeofbeingpractical. Anyone can choose pieces because they NEED them, but wearing something merely because it's fashionable and looks cool makes the psychology behind the decision much more interesting.

Today, I've decided to dive into parkas, the least interesting of fashion choices and attempt to convince you that they aren't half bad from the eyes of a Canadian shopper.

As someone who lives in Canada, a place where weather is unpredictable and the levels of "cold" are beyond human capacity (in my humble opinion), I am well aware of that need for a heavy duty winter jacket. As fashion-forward folk, we tend to opt for the "cooler" (excuse the pun) look of a lighter leather jacket or trendy trench (I will stop alliterating now). Who needs a puffer when your wool coat outlines your curves in a much more flattering way? 

My relationship with the parka runs deep as I have below zero tolerance for cold temperatures and my practical angel pops up on my shoulder every time I choose to look cool over feeling warm. I like to believe that I'm not the only one who faces this dilemma on a daily basis between the months of November and March. 

When I step outside on those cold winter evenings in my puffer jacket, I feel comfortable, but in the meantime, chic is being held ransom by the evil snowflake. What is one to do in this situation? 

Are YOU willing to sacrifice comfort for fashion? 

In the fashion world, it's often a tough battle in which our superficial side comes out victorious. After all, if other woman can layer like mad, why can't you? What is wrong with layering to no avail and shedding those layers upon arrival at your destination? 

If you ponder it for a moment, a bundle of layers can actually cause you to overheat to such an extreme that every piece must be removed and then you must rapidly figure out how to stuff each article of clothing inside your Celine bag. So, if you think about it, layering can be quite problematic in day-to-day situations.

Consider the parka. It's your one stop layer and invites you to wear that slinky slip dress underneath. If the coat is warm enough, you hardly need to layer with anything other than a cardigan. Can we perhaps try to fathom that this may actually be "cool" in fashion terms? Isn't over layering "trying too hard" and aren't we all trying to look like we didn't try so hard to put our outfit together? 

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

How To Prepare For Winter And Avoid Hypothermia

Caution: This will not be a scientific analysis on cold temperatures or hypothermia.

As a Canadian, I am inherently qualified to give advice on how to dress for winter. For some, it seems basic, but you'd be surprised at the curve balls this season might throw your way. In the summer, all you have to worry about is the sun and the rain. In winter, there could be a snowstorm at any given moment, hail, a rainfall, sub-zero temperatures, and above zero global warming temperatures. It really is the luck of the draw. So, how do we prepare? Runway collections teach us how to dress for fall, but what happens when winter comes along? Essentially, if it goes down to 10 degrees, we're ready to face it. Unfortunately, Canada is the land of igloos and a cute wool coat often won't suffice.

Here are some style tips for the winter snow angel (aka YOU).

TIP 1: Wear a parka.

I know you want to look stylish and a parka makes you look like you ate your doppelganger, but it is essential to winter survival. Recently, fashionistas have been spotted wearing these monsters on the streets at Fashion Week. Designers have integrated them into their collections and we could all breathe a sigh of relief as they come to be recognized as fashion staples. These two looks from the Diesel Black and Gold Fall 2014/2015 collection are ideal for those chilly winter months. However, I wouldn't advise wearing them without pants.

via www.denimjeansobserver.com

TIP 2: Add some furccessories.

Fur is all the rage in the fashion world and the only reason we can all proclaim our love for winter. This season, fur takes on so many forms that you don't need the fluffy coat to feel glamorous. Whether a fur trim on your gloves or a Fendi fur stole, there are enough options to keep you warm and chic.

Option 1: The Fur Hat

For the bolder type...

via www.fashionisers.com

Option 2: The Fur Scarf

For that subtle glamour...

via www.fashionisers.com

TIP 3: Opt for REAL winter boots.

Lies fashion people tell you: you can wear leather boots all winter. At a certain point, those thermal socks probably won't cut it. You'll need something a little warmer for days where it hits -30 degrees. Get yourself a pair of insulated winter boots. Tommy Hilfiger knows what I'm talking about.

via www.style.com

TIP 4: Embrace the hat.

Lucky for us, hats are currently a major trend. Keep your ears warm with a cozy wool hat. It can be stylish. I promise.

via www.fashioniser.com

TIP 5. Wear pants under your skirt or dress. It's high fashion.

This may seem quasi-crazy, but all the designers are making it acceptable. Just when you thought you could never do such a thing (in public), it becomes a fashion statement that we're all secretly dying to try. This was definitely a shout-out to Canadians.

via www.womensfashionstyles.com

TIP 6: Invest in thigh high socks. They can be SO chic.

If pants under skirts is just not for you, try a pair of cozy long socks. Worn with the current mod trend, this look reminds us of the best part about high school uniforms. If Tory Burch did it, why can't you?

via www.live-life-in-style.com

TIP 7: Don't forget your gloves.

Your extremities can make you freeze faster than your average ice cube. Cover them. They will improve the state of your body in a matter of minutes. Try long gloves for added warmth as shown at Vera Wang, Altuzarra, and Christian Dior during Fall 2014 Fashion Week.

via www.fashioniser.com

TIP 8: Buy a large variety of oversized sweaters

Oversized sweaters are my favourite winter piece. They're cozy AND stylish, which makes them a seasonal must-have. Buy a few in wool or acrylic to make sure you stay warm under your parka.

via www.stylecaster.com

Ready for winter yet? Follow this list one step at a time and you'll be prepared to face December in head-to-toe style.

XOXO,

Bella

Toronto Fashion Week: What Winter Actually Looks Like

Remember Fall 2014 Fashion Month a few short weeks ago? Remember thinking that this is NOT how people dress in the wintertime unless they are polar bears with an inhuman resistance to low temperatures? That's what World MasterCard Fashion Week is for. Real Canadians know what winter is all about: fur trims, an abundance of leather, and oversized winter accessories. Though fashion remains a fantasy in which we can marvel at beautiful clothes that we'll probably never wear because they are unaffordable or simply impractical, we cannot live in this fantasy weather land where winter does not exist (especially not in Canada). We can always argue that it is #forthesakeoffashion, but alas, we may find ourselves with frostbitten toes and a permanent stuffy nose. Toronto Fashion Week takes us through winter in style while remaining realistic about the reality we must all face: Winter is real. Sickness is also real. And since winter hasn't yet ended, much to our dismay, we can still inspire ourselves with these looks.

Here are some of the best looks from Toronto Fashion Week that bring us back to earth, while maintaining impeccable style.

Matthew Gallagher Fall 2014

It is ESSENTIAL to cover up from NECK TO TOE. Turtle necks must become your new best friend for this temporary 6 month period.

Rudsak Fall 2014

Rudsak reminds us that fur is integral to warmth. Even in the form of gloves. Let's not forget that parkas can be chic and wool coats just won't suffice in -20 degree temperatures.

Joe Fresh Fall 2014

Invest in a quality scarf. Flimsiness is NOT an option.

Pink Tartan Fall 2014

Yes, you can wear white in the winter. But it SHOULD be a knitted headscarf. And don't leave the house without your fur boxing gloves and matching fur shoes.

Mackage Fall 2014

Don't forget your pompom hat. And if you're going to wear leather, it should be accompanied by fur. ALWAYS.

Laura Siegel Fall 2014

Oh, this old thing? This is what a REAL oversized sweaters looks like.

And on that note, as we get inspired by winter, let us dream of spring. Yes, I'm talking to you, Mother Nature.

Bella

Winter Fashion Week Rules

Yes, ladies. It's still winter. These endless months have not yet ceased and in the midst of New York Fashion Week, looking chic is not an easy feat. Though February contains the promise of spring, the risk of a snowstorm remains prominent and the temperatures continue to drop to frostbitten levels. As designer boots struggle to avoid getting splattered by dirt stained slush, fashionistas from across the globe gather in New York City faced with the challenge of looking their best in the worst possible circumstances. Here are some of the street style shots taken in the past few days that can teach us all a thing or two about layering and looking winter-chic.

First of all, it's crucial to layer up as much as humanly possible (if that weren't obvious enough) because frankly, who wants to wear a parka to Alexander Wang?
*Tip: Play with colourful scarves, unique fur pieces, and leather accents.

If you're still suffering the wrath of the cold, wrap that scarf around your head instead to keep your ears warm and bundle up like Mira Duma.

If you're classy wool coat still won't cut it, find a hot male supermodel to hold you close for body heat.

Or, indulge in a luxurious fur coat. After all, it's always a la mode and will definitely keep you warm!

If fur isn't your thing, learn from The Blond Salad blogger, Chiara Ferragni, and cosy up in a Louis Vuitton cape. It may not seem like it'll keep you warm, but it is the blanket's chic fashionable cousin.

If you've really given up or you happen to be a carefree fashion model like Soo Joo, let the snow be your fashion accessory for the photographers to capture that candid moment.

Or, break all New York Fashion Week rules, be a rebel, and wear some chunky Sorel boots with your Junya Watanabe ensemble. A punchy turquoise handbag, a printed floor-length coat, and a black floppy hat with those Sorels, will definitely turn heads.

Alas, even if you are unable to partake in New York Fashion Week because you have not attained that level of cool just yet or live halfway across the world and it surpasses your budget, have no fear. When the day finally comes, you will be prepared. And if these women can pull off looking this good in the winter, why can't you?

Bella

Photos via www.vogue.com

My Wide Selection of Oversized Man Sweaters

Last November, I went on a rampage at Forever 21. Shuffling through the racks, I desperately searched for some bulky sweaters to keep my frail figure warm in Montreal's arctic winter. As I leaped from floor to floor, I grabbed anything and everything in sight that appeared heavy-weight and oversized, and upon trying them on, I zipped my way straight to the cash register. Slip went my credit card and I exited the store with a chubby yellow plastic bag filled with sweaters in rash inducing fabrics. But that didn't matter as long as I was reassured that I would stay warm.

via olsensanonymous.blogspot.com

This particularly unpleasant winter has ignited goosebumps and frostbite across the globe. From New York to Montreal, fashionistas are struggling to stay chic without catching their death. As a petite girl, it's constantly a challenge to find form-fitting clothing to keep my proportions intact and avoid being swallowed whole by my outfit. When I bought that panoply of oversized sweaters, I threw my habitual style rules out the window and blamed it on the Olsen Twins. With their ineffable ability to layer and their penchant for the oversized, they've become my winter role models. I've decided to explore the realms of The Row and maybe learn to love it. I've also turned to sassy British models Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn for some inspiration on how to dress "tomboy chic". The oversized sweater has saved my life and despite the two colds I acquired within the month of January, I'm on a mission to stay warm.

As a strut down the halls in my new larger than life sweaters, I am often asked why I don't highlight my curves a little more. All I have to say is: "Let that be a mystery". Fashion is about highlighting your assets, but it's also about comfort (despite popular belief). And by comfort, I am not merely referring to physical comfort, but to emotional comfort as well. There's something cozy and heart-warming about a massive sweater. Perhaps it makes us think of our fantasy boyfriends. Maybe it's just reminiscent of being tucked into our beds. Either way, the big sweater is full of magic and I just can't get enough.

Stay chic!

Bella




2 Days Until NYFW (World. Collapsing. Excitement. Mounting)

Baby, It's STILL Cold Outside

Happy January 2nd Everyone!

If you left your house on this breezy January morning, you may have noticed how cold it was (Yes, I'm talking to you Canadians!). The single hardest thing to bear for any fashionista (or any person really) is layering to such a degree that you disappear. However, it is essential to our survival. Without our mitts, beanies, infinity scarves, Rudsak coats, and Uggs, we'd die (not to be dramatic of course). Personally, I wore 2 pairs of socks today along with a heavy sweater and a wool dress (it was not as cute as I hoped it would be). Being chic in the winter is probably almost as hard as climbing Everest (again, not being dramatic).

As someone who isn't significantly tall (to put it euphemistically), heels are my best friend and saying goodbye to them in the Winter is VERY dramatic. In icy winters such as these, high heels are just a safety hazard.

What I'm struggling to figure out is how much are we all willing to sacrifice for fashion? Is comfort really more important or is comfort a sacrifice in and of itself? Let's face it, winter is not comfortable. Wear the flattest boots you want with the furriest of fur trims and the bulkiest coat you can muster. Put on your ski gloves and engulfing hat. If you were cold before, now you're claustrophobic.

As pessimistic as this may sound, I'd also like to mention a few fashionable things about the Winter months (to end on a brighter note). First of all, white is ALWAYS chic. Second, there's nothing more glamorous than faux fur (except real fur, but we won't get into that debate). Third, EAR MUFFS. Fourth, naturally flushed cheeks (blush not required). And finally, layering is just another excuse to go shopping. Have I convinced you?

Even if this didn't work on you, it's just my way of keeping spirits up in the cold months that will follow. Also, positive thinking and my Fashion Week countdown are the only things that will get us through January.

Cheers!

Bella




35 Days Until NYFW

What's In A Name? Tis Everything.

Dearest reader,

I'd like to wish you a happy second day of Winter and hope that you've had a lovely weekend. Regrettably, I found myself quite preoccupied on Saturday to such a degree that I was unable to post an intriguing piece of work for my beloved readers to ponder with their morning coffee. For that, I offer my deepest apologies. I am uncertain as to why I've adopted a rather archaic tone of voice, but let's "just go with it", shall we?

What is on the agenda for this evening, you may ask? Today, I have decided to address an issue which ails us all due to our constant need to assert our importance within the grander society. I am referring to the human obsession with the latest coveted item on the rack comprising a conspicuously well-established label.

Alas, we are all victims of brand addiction. You and I, along with the lady down the street, have stumbled into the brand trap, never to escape it. As we are all aware, status is everything, and thus, exposing one's wealth or a simulation of one's wealth is crucial to being admitted into the fashion elite. Whether tis a Michael Kors Hamilton Bag or Hermes Birkin, the ownership of one of these accessories places one in a higher class of human being. This is a well-established fact. Must we love the design and craftsmanship? It is not the priority. Rather, if all the ladies in your social surroundings have one, it is undeniable that it shall be an excellent purchase. One simply DOES NOT carry a brand-less handbag, for she would be the talk of the town and gossip runs rampant in these parts. It simply CANNOT be done.

Seeing as your attire indicates your classification in the social sphere, I advise you not to neglect it. Is it necessary to spend an extra few hundred dollars on a Burberry trend coat? Not particularly. However, you do not want to find yourself in the lower echelons of society, now do you? What's a few hundred dollars if it implies immediate status recognition?

Sincerely,

Bella

And Suddenly the Snow Crept Up On Us Like A Mysterious Figure in the Nighttime

Snow flakes.

I counted till they danced so
Their slippers leaped the town,
And then I took a pencil
To note the rebels down.
And then they grew so jolly
I did resign the prig,
And ten of my once stately toes
Are marshmallowed for a jig!

No, I did not write this poem. It was Emily Dickinson. But, I'm flattered you made that assumption.

This morning, I woke up and looked out my window (because I have an unnatural obsession with the weather) and lo and behold, there it was: the most beautiful sheet of white. I dread the moment those fugly winter boots form dents in the smooth surface, heavy rain drops crush those delicate flakes, and the most repulsive shade of slush taints the white. For now, let's enjoy this day, even if it's Monday, and we all hate Mondays. As little as I tolerate the cold due to my petite frame with little flesh to protect me from it, it still looks picture perfect from my window. So, if you haven't yet, push aside those curtains and take a look.

In other news...
Speaking of Mondays, I have another way to make yours better in the form of my own piece of writing that appears on my Tumblr every week (in case you haven't noticed). As per usual, I have an article up my sleeve and this one is very much related to what you see out there. Let me give you a hint: it is very much related to what you see out there. That's all you're getting because I really want you to read it. Stay tuned tonight for some significant survival/fashion advice (yes, they are synonymous in this case).

Ciao!
Bella