When the mercury drops to 30 degrees below zero, I often long for the warm sand beaches of Trinidad and Tobago. My only consolation is beautiful winter wear I can flaunt while braving the blizzards. In fact, one of the primary reasons I adore living in Alberta, Edmonton in particular, is the four distinct seasons we have, which, for me, translates into four fabulous wardrobes (and some multi-tasking transitional pieces).
My favorite boutique for outerwear and wardrobe staples, including designer denim, is MoltiSanti (#332 Southgate Centre, 780-435-3404, moltisanti.com). The shop specializes in premium casual wear for both women and men and offers a personal shopping service. I am having a great deal of difficulty deciding between two impeccably tailored black wool coats by the Montreal-based brand Mackage (mackage.com). The Noah (shown, $560) is quite fitted and has a black leather belt and leather bands at the wrists. The Isa ($496) has a high collar, slightly flared silhouette and leather detailing on the pockets.
While it is of the utmost importance to demonstrate fiscal restraint when we are in the midst of a recession and possibly recovering from post-holiday spending shock, I prefer to think of buying outerwear as investing in something that fills a need, rather than a splurge. As any worthy survival handbook will note, the three basic needs of all human beings, especially Edmontonians, in winter are food, shelter and coats.
Dilemma solved—I will purchase both. It’s a matter of survival!
A self-proclaimed accessories junkie who is addicted to shoes, sunglasses and vintage jewellery. Even my mom claims that I “came out of the womb wearing stilettos.” Although my shoe collection (178 pairs and counting) is a definite source of pride, my greatest achievements to date are my three sons, aged two years and under. If you need the scoop on all things fashion in the City of Champions, I’m your gal.
Get the FASHION newsletter
Sign up and never miss fashion and beauty news, product drops and trends. Plus, the occasional promotional message from our partners.