What I’m wearing - Issue 2
Notable knits to nestle in
Canadian winters are mostly intolerable so I make like a bear, and hibernate. In February, it’s not just the groundhog’s emergence that reminds my neighbours that spring is upon us, it’s mine as well because before I became a content creator, they wouldn’t see much of me past New Years. It’s gelid, the days are short, I’m miserable, and as absent as the sun is, I’d still best it in a competition for who shows up the least.
Hello darkness, you are NOT my old friend (thank-you Rachel for putting that one in my head).
There are few compelling reasons to dress post Xmas, let alone leave the house, and if it weren’t for my love of fashion, I’m not sure I’d be convinced to do either but thankfully, clothing isn’t just an artistic outlet, it has transformational power, and my closet is an excellent re-charging station.
I usually allow my demeanor to determine the dress because it feels more organic when I approach it that way but occasionally, I defer to the clothes to dictate my disposition; if I make intentional selections, I can go into my closet deflated but come out invigorated. Different outfits elicit different emotions and I leverage my wardrobe to cure the ailment and broadcast a message.
If I need to be taken seriously, I’ll opt for a suit. If I want casual confidence, I wear denim (esp my Eglittas). If I’m looking to flip the store sign and call it a day, track pants. And then there are knits. A loose, lofty pullover makes me want to curl up and cocoon in an almost sedated like state and I stop just short of slurring my words because that’s how relaxed I am when I’m in them and now that it’s officially cocooning season, I’m looking to snuggle and I’ll take any and all hugs (by way of knits and otherwise).
Here are the notable ones:
My daughter has already claimed this one (or so she thinks). I’ve been wanting an ivory coloured sweater for some time but at Row prices, I was always worried about stains. This one doesn’t cost as much and is really flattering. It’s long even in the xs (reminder that I’m 5’2” short) and I should have taken the xxs but I’m not fussed about it. The ribbed cuffs and hem are really nice and it’s 100% cashmere. It sheds a bit but I don’t mind that either.
Turtleneck jumper in black (wearing xs) with a rich red suede skirt. As for the bag, I bought it for Xmas with my boy in mind (he’s about to enter the workforce) but I may give it a spin before I wrap it, just to test it out.
This is atypical for me…a shrunken knit, but I really like it. This particular grey is very nice with a subtle blue undertone in certain lights. I’m wearing an xs. I paired it with an old denim Mango skirt but this one is also nice, and you know the loafers. The bag is The Row canvas Idaho (sold out) and these Dorsey earrings are insanely beautiful - treat yourself to them, if nothing else (I did a post here to show how they sparkle, perfect for the holidays). The Dorsey team is exceptional - they’re courteous and kind, and they make very beautiful jewellery.
I was worried this colour would wash me out but I quite like it and it makes me look like I have a tan (I don’t know why). It’s soft, earthy, and goes with everything. I took my usual size xs. Paired with my Row bag, and my suede skirt.
Look, I’m wearing a pattern…and it’s navy, not black! It’s soft, and warm, and good with denim but I also wore it with a maxi skirt (forgot to take a pic) and it looks just as nice. It’s sort of like a holiday sweater but it can be worn well past the holidays. These jeans are a closet staple, same bag as before, and the shoes are not really to be found anymore (old Marie sneakers by The Row) but these would do.
As soon as I saw this one, I knew I wanted it. It’s airy and light but unbelievably warm in spite of the looser weave. The colour is a deep green. I took an xs because I didn’t like how snug the sleeves were in the xxs. Paired with my usual jeans (I’m wearing a size 2) and these loafers. You can see it moving in this reel.
Sometimes I feel the need to prove I’m still a woman (to no one else but myself) and baring skin isn’t my thing so I choose slimmer silhouettes, and I’m very drawn to collarless pieces. The sleeves are slightly belled and it’s fitted but not tight. I’m wearing an xs. I’m going to try wearing this belted too. When paired with these cropped jeans, this bag, and these loafers, the look is chic but still cool. Gloves optional.
This knit is by Casasola, a new line I’ve recently been introduced to. I chose to go with a size small in this knit and even so, the neck is snug and the fit is slim. I LOVE the colour - tapioca. So sharp with black. The skirt is a very old one and the Canal boots are long gone but wear these (or these) with socks and you’ll get the look. Now, let’s talk about the bag — well made, petite, goes crossbody, and I think it’s a nice switch-up for the evening instead of a clutch. The details are beautiful and the base is made from materials sourced in Rwanda and is woven locally, by their female artisans. I admire the company’s commitment to empowering them by providing opportunities and fair wages.
Iris von Arnim knits are a dream and if you have the opportunity to try one, please do. They’re extremely soft and will keep you comfy and warm all winter. This style is a little boxy so I’ve done the buttons up asymmetrically to offset my broad shoulders. The colour is neutral and I like it with this beige suede skirt but it’s so cozy that I’ll be wearing it with pyjama bottoms before bed too.
Nite nite.
N, xo.
Oh this is great, catching up on reads I accidentally missed and then you mention iris von arnim here - I just went on a bookmark spree for that brand!! Definitely moving it up the list now :)))
Everything on this list I would wear. Or a less expensive version anyway😜. I especially love thick cashmere (so do moths). With a blanket on the couch. See you in March.