The Refinery's Wendy Woods.
When the temperatures drop outside, the inclination to pile on knubby sweaters, chunky coats and heavy boots goes up. If you find yourself looking more like a North Pole explorer in the cold, slushy winter months in Toronto, have no fear! There's another way to stay toasty without sacrificing your sense of style.
OurFaves recently sat down with The Refinery's Wendy Woods to ask her how she stays looking fabulous in the winter months.
What's your favourite new addition to your closet? Why? Where did you find it?
I just bought this beautiful drapey shirt from Shopgirls by Montreal designer Veronique Miljkovitch. I loved it so much I tore the tags off in the store, and wore it for the rest of the day. It’s one of those pieces that is incredibly comfortable, but looks great too. I adore wearing it!
What are you coveting? Why?
Gaspard, a new boutique on Queen Street West, carries the most beautiful European designs that you can’t get anywhere else in Toronto. Specifically, I love the Jamin Pech clutches, Iosselliani Jewelry, and silk dresses by Mercy (which is actually the boutique owners’ Canadian line of clothing). Gaspard is a great boutique for women looking to find stunning, quality, investment pieces.
What piece do you think you'll be getting the most use out of this winter?
Let’s be honest, as Canadians, we all get the most wear out of boots, coats, hats, and mittens in the winter!
Can you offer some tips on how to dress fashionably in chilly weather?
My number one tip is to invest in a winter coat that makes you feel fabulous! You will wear this coat everyday for months, and it is what most people will see you in for the winter months. I love that there are so many colourful options out there this season, so you don’t have to settle on the standard basic black.
Do you dress for warmth or fashion when the temperatures start to drop?
Why do we have to choose? I dress for both!
Where did you do most of your Christmas shopping this year?
I have done most of my gift shopping in the small boutiques around Toronto that I have conveniently outlined for you in this do-it-yourself, holiday gift shopping guide (find it here). I find shopping much more enjoyable when I grab an eggnog latte from a local cafe, and make gift shopping an experience in itself!
Do you have any advice for how to dress for all the holiday parties coming up this season?
It’s always fun to add a little sparkle to whatever outfit you decide to wear - it is a Holiday party after all! This could be as subtle as a glittery pair of earrings, or as bold as a sequin dress. In the end it’s always most important that you feel comfortable, and look great, in whatever you choose to wear.