The Friday Fashionphile #2 Spring 2020 Trends to Look For

If you’re a vintage lover…this is your season!

The runways have been swarming with reminiscent iconic looks some of us have worn and adored. I’m talking: Vests, crochet, polka dots, psychedelic prints, disco collars (all kinds of collars to be exact!), short suits… What more can a vintage lover ask for?

And as for colours; I’ll just talk about my faves: neons and red of course!

Fashion always repeats itself- or as we say- everything comes back in fashion! But when the come-back is this good, you wanna wear all that goodness that inspires. Here are some of the looks that this Montreal styling diva is breathless about:

CROCHET!

I love this so much-It brings back the 60’s and 70’s vibe! https://busbeestyle.com/spring-fashion-trends-2020/

VESTS

Vests are so versatile and perfect for layering. Sets the mood for chic or casual- or edgy! https://busbeestyle.com/spring-fashion-trends-2020/

POLKA DOTS

Are we surprised that this trend keeps popping back? Look how good this looks! See: http://www.stylelistaconfessions.com/2019/09/stylish-fashion-week-spring-2020-trends.html

PSYCHEDELIC PRINTS

These are all the rage. Personally, I can’t get enough of this- totally my vibe! Remember this ladies?? See: https://www.ellecanada.com/fashion/trends/your-guide-to-the-top-trends-for-spring-summer-2020

DISCO COLLARS

Ok I’m dying- This was probably the funnest time for fashion- am I right? see: https://ciinmagazine.com/fashion/ciin06022001-the-disco-collar/

MORE COLLARS!

Check out these Peter Pan collars! Ok, how adorable are these? See: http://www.stylelistaconfessions.com/2019/09/stylish-fashion-week-spring-2020-trends.html

SHORT SUITS

Who doesn’t love a fabulous suit- and especially with the freedom of shorts! These are seen with Bermudas especially- but all lengths are in as well; even the short shorts! See: https://40plusstyle.com/spring-2020-fashion-trends/

COLOURS?

I’ll just focus on two of my very favourite: Neon… How perfect is this lime green?? See: https://www.styleoholic.com/neon-outfits-for-spring-2020/

And Red! Yes, Red! I am crazy about this colour for both fall and winter, but adding it for Spring and Summer…well, I am in heaven! See: https://glowsly.com/spring-summer-color-trends/

These are some of the trends that I’m most excited about for Spring 2020. And although we know that trends come and go, that doesn’t mean they actually disappear within a season. Many of these trends, in fact, last well into one season to the next (just look at neons and polka dots). So we are good for awhile.

As well, I’d say that we can probably dig into our own closets and find that once again, we can find these same trends already hanging there waiting for us to style them up again.

#Confessionoftheday: I’m ready to ravage my closet, determined to find some of these looks right in there!

March 27, 2020 0

Shop Your Closet- Or -These Thrill-of-The- Hunt Places!

Turns out that the perfect jacket I was shopping for, was actually the one I was wearing!

I’ve been rooting for the ‘shop your closet’ concept for a while now over on my Instagram account- and for good reason; it’s an-all-around good thing!

And with all that’s happening in the world today…I feel it’s time we take a closer look at how we live our lives, and put things in perspective…even, (if not more) when it comes to fashion.

Shopping your closet will inspire you to not only feed your creativity, but also entice you to become more caring for our environment. And need I mention how soothing this will be for your pocket?

There is a strong movement towards sustainability, and this includes up and coming, as well as, well established Fashion Designers. Slowly everyone is getting on board- and shopping your closet is a way to start! So my very first suggestion would be to check what you have and get creative. First on my list would be to alter your clothes of course! See my article on that here: Fashionable DIY Styling- A Must!

Yet, there are always some additional pieces that we may have to add to our wardrobe, and purchasing is necessary…However, it can still be done conscientiously. Second-hand rentals or consignment shops are constantly sprouting such as The Real Real for example. Still on the higher end, we also have LXR, which is a concession now available online in the larger department stores. Then there are your swap meets, where ladies meet and swap clothing. There are your local non-profit charities that have set up shop to raise funds for a certain cause; for example here in Montreal we have the Nova shops

And of course, there is always the Salvation Army and Village des Valeurs, to name a few.

I personally love Vintage clothes and those can be found in numerous treasure shops on St. Denis Street and Boul. St. Laurent- One such gem is Boutique 1861. Another that comes to mind if you are on the West Island is La Friperie du village (he has gorgeous designer bags!!!). Montreal, like New York, is filled with these gems- all you need is the thrill of the hunt- and you’ll find what you want! Check out: The Ultimate Guide to Vintage Shopping in Montreal.

Bottom line: Create designer looks that you want, but that also fit your budget.

Here’s another idea: Why not set up a closet dress-up day with some friends? You can arrange to have a swap-time. Or, why not have a good friend come over for some ideas? She could show you how she would style up some of your clothes. Sometimes we might need a fresh pair of eyes to open up or view!

Lastly, here’s how this Montreal Diva re-vamps her looks…just by shopping my closet!

Gucci vibes- just right for a special birthday supper.

Or maybe a chic velvet moment…just look at those sleeves!

And for when work prescribes black- I’ve had this chain little sweater for years and still loving it.

Probably one of my favourite looks for this winter- especially the arm warmers- love!

Cozy sweaters for a dressed-down Saturday look

Speaking of burgundy…My love of jumpsuits had me shopping my daughter’s closet that time!!

Am I the only one crazy for bell-bottoms? Another Saturday look.

This one: Just because mixing prints is my passion. How can I not love this?!

There’s just something about a good coat. Statement piece.

Speaking of Statement pieces: This one is the piece de resistance…My mom’s 1950’s coat

And another pic- just because I can’t resist this delicious coat!

These fabulous, and easy styles are all from my closet. Take the time to play dress-up from your wardrobes, Ladies…You never know what you’re gonna find!

#Confessionoftheday: you’re never too old to walk your own runway!

March 14, 2020 2

How to Wear Your Vintage Hats

Hats give the special finishing touch to outerwear. But I’m talking especially about the vintage ones living somewhere in our closet. Do you have a favorite hat that you swear next winter you’ll wear for sure…and then you never do?

There’s a good chance that something’s holding you back. There was a time when hats were de rigueur…now, unless it’s on the Runway, we often feel reluctant. Maybe there’s the glamour aspect that makes it feel like it’s a bit too much- it feels too elegant.

For me, it’s always been a question of practicality. Like if I’m gonna wear a hat, it better keep me warm, and, it better look good. And then there’s the whole fur ordeal and my new outlook on this (I’ll never buy real fur again). But what do you do with all the fur vintage hats you have stashed in your closet?

Mine have real sentimental value, since they mostly all belonged to my mom, grandmother, or another close relative. I don’t want to throw them out…So I do want to wear them- if only for the ode of respect for the animal as well as the environment (don’t want them in a landfill). So now that I’ve made my peace with that, what do you do when because of the fashion back in the day, these hats are not in the least bit practical? Meaning, yes, they’re made to keep you warm; yet they don’t even cover your ears?!

If you’re one of those ladies who’s bought a few winter hats because of how cute they are- but can’t figure out how to wear them with purpose…Then, take a look at my video clip for some practical styling tips. Try these out and see if you can revamp those beauties you’ve got hidden in some pretty hat box at the far end of your closet. And…do let me know- send me a pic- I love seeing women styling hats!

Watch my Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErCxVULXYzU

#confessionoftheday: I secretly long for those days when, as a little girl, my mom used to take me to Eaton’s (remember that department store in the 60’s- 70’s?)- all the customers were elegantly dressed. The women wore fancy hats, gloves and marvelous coats. Shopping was a chic and very big ordeal (well at least that’s what I thought!) I used to love taking the elevator just because it was operated by the ladies in uniform. Do you guys remember that? I guess that’s wear my love of hats…and styling of course, began.

January 24, 2020 0

Why (not ‘What’) Are You Wearing…?

Doors are symbolic to me. Whether it’s in real life or in dreams, I always get some sort of message or feeling when I see doors. I took this photo several weeks ago and yet it only speaks to me today. New beginnings, new things, are coming my way. Like we’ve heard before; when one door closes- another one opens.

So today, this is still a styling post, but with much more meaning to it. I’m to let what has passed, be at rest and in peace…and look ahead to what more, life has to offer. I’m to not look behind in grief, but rather be graciously thankful for that past that is now allowing me to go forward.

I wasn’t thinking such thoughts when I took this picture; it’s only now that I was browsing through which pics to post, that it spoke to me this way. Grieving is a personal process, but when you feel you get a strong message that you alone can interpret, then it’s something real that you can’t just set aside.

My message came in strong for me and I just love the way this pic has such a ready-to-go feel. It’s a happy and ready photo. Styling is a passion and so is fashion- but it is way for me. There’s always something behind what you choose to wear and what pics you choose to post. I really believe styling up is a creative outlet and a form of expression.

Today I encourage you to look back at some of your photos and see what you can read from them just by how you styled up your outfit- or where the pic was taken. Everything is pre-conceived; even when you just throw on ‘any old thing’. It has meaning- and basically, by wearing; you’re expressing.

Which outfit styling photos of yours speak out to you?

#confessionoftheday: My dad (95), who recently passed away during the holidays this year, would not want me to put my life on hold. He would want me to move forward and lunge…after all, it’s from him that I’ve inherited my strong will and perseverance. Thanks Papa.

I support sustainable fashion and wearing and re-styling what’s already in your closet; Thrifted vintage Givenchy.

January 6, 2020 8

November’s Fashion Review: What Lucy Wore

November is gone! This year, October’s gloomy sister was a cold creepy nag wouldn’t you say?

I personally believe that November is the perfect month to break up the gloomies with a quick getaway. Somewhere that makes you feel like summer wasn’t too far gone; while the holidays are on their way…Welcome American Black Friday! A shopping girl’s ‘almost’ favourite time of year. Doesn’t make November seem so dreary after all!

This November I enjoyed quite a few favourite outfits. Blacks win my heart- that’s just the way it is. So this short cape over a grey turtleneck and tights seemed just right. Most of these pieces are from Le Chateau. Le Chateau offers great style at affordable prices- you never can miss.

Still in black mode- I love to take it up a notch with a bit of a retro look. This outfit was so practical and comfy. H & M short knit skirt; Guess wool sweater, Roberto Cavalli handbag, Givenchy sunglasses; Le Chateau boots.

It was also time to take out my reversible leopard print coat. Animal print makes me feel so glamorous.

I just have to tell you about my new tights obsession!! Have you heard of From Rachel? She is a Quebec designer who makes the most original tights. They are so stylish!! I bought several pairs with different motifs. Here I’m wearing them with my knit green sweater dress from Le Chateau (have you noticed how much I like shopping there?).

Red mood…as I was psyching myself up for the holidays soon approaching. Love these Cowboy boots that I’ve had a few years now. Such a conversation piece!

All geared up for work in black (the only color I’m actually allowed to wear – I’m almost thankful for that!). Totally in my element;) Marciano dress, and From Rachel tights (dressy ones!).

And then it was off to Florida! My November fashion turned into a Summovember mood! Jeans and loose blouses were favourites.

My Trussardi shorts and a pair of ruffled pants by Lucca Couture, that I got at the Black Friday sales, became my go-to’s.I also brought along a short white leather jacket, by Guess- perfect with almost all my outfits.

I could not live without my Mathilde handbag! From the plane, to shopping, to out for dinner- I wore this bag everywhere. In its gorgeous camel beige color; it just fit right in, always! Both my Gucci belt and my vintage Nina Ricci; worn all the time.

Back home- back to black! I love these leopard print booties by Charles David!! I got them for a steal at Saks Off while in Florida.

Last day of November, for a Blogittogether Event here in Montreal, I wore my Miu Miu skirt with boat top and Fiorucci top (and my can’t-live-without Gucci belt of course!) I was tanned enough and the weather mild enough that I wore my over the knee platform boots without tights (Montreal weather!)- but hey…it wasn’t quite December yet!

#confessionoftheday: I could not hold back on that American Black Friday…boots, boots, and- more boots. Le sigh.

Ready for December? Stay tuned!

December 4, 2018 1

Vintage – Only Gets Better with Age

Due to fast fashion, the Vintage rule has now changed from 50 years to 10. Meaning that if you bought something in, say, 2008, it can now be called one of your vintage collectibles. But let’s be clear here, unless it’s a sentimental piece or a high quality item, we can’t just be calling any old thing, “vintage”. That being said, everything’s relative- because if you’re not planning on reselling, then the value you place on it is your own.

I personally hold on to stuff I really love and that is also dear to me. When it comes to housewares- I’ll keep almost all that’s valuable that was passed on to me through generations. Same goes for jewelry and heirlooms. But-When it comes to clothing, I don’t always care in the same sentimental kind of way. Clothing pieces that I keep are first and foremost quality items that I originally purchased because I loved them. Secondly, they must fit me well while being versatile and adaptable enough for me to re-wear and give it a new beginning.

There are just some things that I cannot part with…jackets are my big, big weakness. (We’ll get into handbags another time;) I prefer my vintage items to be suitable for the times and have an edgy and original look. I don’t really mind if the look is rather quirky and a bit outrageous.

If I can give one bit of advice that I use for myself…just make sure that your ‘oldy’ does not actually date YOU. What do I mean? Well, let’s just say you want to wear a look from the 50’s. For some younger women, a whole entire look may work just fine. However, there’s a good chance that if, for example, I were to wear this, I could be mistaken for being stuck in an era. It can be an automatic ‘ager’. That’s not so cool. Avoid this by making sure you always match up your vintage with something very ‘in’ right now. This will add pizzazz, novelty and trendiness to your look. Basically, don’t unnecessarily bring old age upon yourself- just modernize it!

Remember: Vintage is for fashion, glamour, reminiscence, colour, texture and originality. Vintage should be artsy and FUN!

Jacket by Victoria Kyriakides, bought in Thessaloniki, Greece (about 20 years ago- I swear it’s brand new- I’ve only worn it maybe 5 times!). Maryjanes haven’t graduated to vintage yet…Spring 2018, Isaac Mizrahi.

#confessionoftheday : I’m secretly more excited about re- wearing a good vintage piece, than when I wear something new for the first time. Maybe it’s like that saying about women and wine…I’ll drink to that (wink, wink;)

What’s your favourite vintage piece?

October 11, 2018 0

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