OUR FAVOURITE THINGS

Canadian Winter Fashions

WHAT DOES CANADIAN WINTER FASHION LOOK LIKE TO YOU? FOR MOST CANADIANS, IT’S SCRATCHY WOOLLENS, ILL-FITTING LONG UNDERWEAR, AND OUTDATED PARKAS. BUT, THANKFULLY, MODERN DESIGNERS ARE FINDING NEW WAYS TO FUSE PRACTICALITY WITH STYLE. THIS WINTER, OUR FAVOURITE THINGS WERE ALL SELECTED WITH THE WEST COAST CLIMATE IN MIND AND WILL HELP YOU NOT ONLY SURVIVE WINTER, BUT THRIVE IN IT! SOME ITEMS ARE ALSO MADE IN CANADA, SO YOU REALLY KNOW THEY’RE MEANT FOR OUR WINTERS.

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There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. That’s how the Scandinavians see it, and we agree! Swedish company, Fjallraven, provides outdoor gear that checks all the boxes: stylish, waterproof, warm, and with longevity that could go head-to-head with Volvo! The Singi Wool Padded Parka M is our pick for the ultimate outerwear piece. fjallraven.ca

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We have fallen in love with these simple but beautiful toques (not beanies!), available in a gorgeous selection of colours and sizes for the whole family. Made in Vancouver and offering just a few exceptionally made pieces for adults, what Simply Merino lacks in selection they make up for in quality. simplymerino.ca

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When a toque is too warm and your ears are too cold, what’s a fashionable Canadian to do? Ear muffs? No way!

It’s all about the knitted headband this year. Wear it skiing, hiking, or just walking the dog. We love a chunky Aran cabled design, but there are many handmade treasures to select from on Etsy – choose what you like and support an independent artisan at the same time!

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If you’re looking for the perfect boot to keep your feet dry and your outfit on point, take a look at Muck boots. Waterproof neoprene adds comfort and breathability, meaning these can withstand Tofino waves and Nanoose Bay rainfall. This on-trend equestrian style can easily transition to a post-beach lunch date look. muckbootcompany.com

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Our wet winters can get mighty cold, but Fairwinders won’t let a little chill stop them from enjoying the great outdoors! That’s why performance thermals are a must. Icebreaker’s Merino 200 Oasis Thermal Leggings come in men’s and women’s sizing and are the perfect base layer for any outdoor winter activity. icebreaker.com

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Ever feel like when your feet are cold the rest of your body will never warm up? Us too. Avoid that feeling altogether with some wool socks. The best ones are knit with a thick layer of loops on the inside, so they warm your feet up instantly. Our favourite brand is SmartWool. smartwool.com

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An oft-overlooked part of the winter wardrobe is sunglasses. Yes, you read that right. We might not wear them often in the winter, but when we need them, we need them! To ensure you have a gorgeous pair on hand at all times, this PEI-based eyewear design house allows you to customize your own by selecting shape, material, and lens. Genius! fellowearthlings.com

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Bold accessories are one thing that always fit, and when you choose pieces that speak to you, you’ll always be in fashion. Susan Koch is a Vancouver Island jeweller famous for her west coast-inspired designs. This strand of local beach stones is a timeless Island piece. susankoch.ca

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There is no modern winter pet peeve more commonly shared than having to remove your gloves to take that perfect snowy selfie! Avoid cold hands by getting a pair of cute winter mitts with SmartTips. These have fabric woven in that allows you to use your touch screen without taking off your warm mitts.

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Here’s a tonguein-cheek nod to pandemic-chic that doubles as a true fashion must-have. Stay cozy with this gaiter that doubles as a face mask. It even has a metal nose bridge and filter pocket! epoqueevolution.com