I’ve had good and bad experiences with medical grade skincare in the past and now understanding my skin a little better, I’m going through the painfully slow and tedious process of introducing new products one by one and making sure I’m tracking the results as I go. Throughout this year, the french pharmacy fave (A313—said retinol pomade) has been a been the only active I’ve been using. It always leaves my skin supple and plump the next morning although when my acne flares up, it doesn’t seem to help much. I got gifted the ZO Retinol Skin Brightener 1% from TVL so I’ll keep you posted on the results. I’ve used it twice so far and my skin does look pretty plump the next day. It also helped flatten an extracted pimple overnight so that was

pretty impressive.

Other than skincare, this week I’d also like to take some time to build a puzzle. After rediscovering them last year, I’ve had it on my list of “rest” activities to get back into so I purchased a Christmas themed one from Homesense. One day I’d love a New York Times one but I won’t splurge on that until I’m ready to set and frame it in my home.

This is your reminder to take rest and self-care in whatever form you see fit this week.

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01

I think this is the last week I’ll be wearing the culottes + flats combo because it’s getting a bit too nippy for my ankles. I’ve been saving this The Line by K top for the fall but haven’t been reaching for it as much as I’d like but I think it’s because at some point I mentally categorized it as a “dressy top”. Think I needed a good reminder that, while yes it may dress up a pair of jeans, it doesn’t mean it’s too dressy for every day. So this was my errands outfit which I think started the week off pretty strong.

02

I mentioned in my last WIWTW that I felt like I wasn’t getting enough wear from my Acne leather jacket so of course I now try to reach for it more often than not. I love how it looks on Jessica (who I follow religiously for her effortless yet elevated style) so that’s been motivating as well.

The leather + sweater + trousers outfit formula will forever be the foundation of my fall style. I also love these relaxed trousers because they’re incredibly comfortable yet still makes it look like I put effort into my look.

03

On the rainiest of days my first instinct is to stay in my pajamas and hide in my apartment. However I did have a dinner planned this day at a friend’s house so I put on my comfiest rainy day outfit.

The Almina Concepts v-neck has been killing it for me in cost-per-wear and I find myself reaching for it every time I’m unsure what to wear. These jeans are also by far my most worn jeans, purely because I bought them 2 sizes up so that they could be low-waisted and essentially feel like sweatpants. Best decision I ever made.

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04

Another night spent at a friend’s (it’s been my favorite weeknight activity is just going to other people’s homes) so I wanted to be as comfortable as possible. Recently got these satin pants from Peppermayo in. I have a few silk options saved on my wish list so this was my foray into elasticated silky pants. I’m a little unsure if they’re for me tbh but I did enjoy it contrasted with my stiffer denim shirt. Will have to sleep on them a little more.

05

Blazers and I have a love/hate relationship. Sometimes they’re the perfect addition to an outfit and other times they make me feel stuffy and boring. I do love the tee + jeans + blazer formula on others so I wanted to emulate that same effortless feeling with this Dies Van Noten number. The great thing about this formula is you can switch out the tee for a dressier top and suddenly you’ve got a fool proof night out outfit.

06

Color!! And one that I feel really good in. Although my eyes are naturally drawn to warmer tones, blue always seems to be a color that works with my complexion. Specifically this bright cobalt blue. I love how it pops on my warmer skintone and against my black hair.

While having a girlie day with , we discovered a new sweater brand based in Montreal. If you’ve also been hunting for natural fibre sweaters this year, you’ll know that good quality sweaters cost a pretty penny. Both this cardigan and the one in my last outfit of the week are 90% wool and 10% cashmere and I think are very fairly priced. I got them from The Hills of Kerrisdale but Naïf has their own website as well.

07

I’ve been hunting for a knit zip-up for a few years now and love this one from Almina Concepts but couldn’t justify the price. So finding this one from Naïf for nearly half the price felt like a sign. I personally love a double zipper because it gives you the option to make a piece from unique. I think this will be a piece I wear a lot during my Paris stint as chic alternative to wearing sweat fleece out in public.

See you next week x

I’ve been inhaling The Creative Pragmatist’s posts specifically these draft pages of Amy Smilovic’s book. Think I’ll have to purchase the book at some point this season but there’s actually so much you can learn just from reading the Substack as well. While my style words remain as Undone, Refined, and Contrast, having the “Chill, Modern, Classic” guidelines of The Creative Pragmatist has been the perfect added layer to planning my outfits this season.

01

Vancouver has fully transitioned into that pre-winter fall weather where mornings are crispy but afternoons could still be sunny and somewhat warm. You’ll notice the layers start to pile up as we go through this week’s post but we’re starting off strong with my last warm weather outfit.

This Free People top has been an absolute anchor in my wardrobe this summer. Slouchy off shoulder top + jeans + shoes that show some skin has been the easiest summer uniform I’ve tried.

02

As I’ve been going through my seasonal wardrobe purge, it’s also helped me pin point which items I love but don’t wear enough. I bought this The Frankie Shop blazer 5 or 6 years ago but it’s barely seen the light of day so I’ve been making it a point to style it more. The Blazer + Jeans + Simple Top + Loafers uniform is one of my favorites on others and I have no idea why I don’t wear it more. Especially when you have a great oversized fit in the blazer, it really creates an effortlessly chic feel even if everything is is basic.

03

I’ve been doing a bit of a sweater overhaul this year and have finally sold every single one of my sweaters that contain synthetic materials. While I do understand why brands use small percentages of poly or elastane for specific cuts or fits, I didn’t love the way my sweaters fit me anymore so it was time for a change.

This Almina Concepts sweater is a new addition to my wardrobe this year and it really is the perfect slouchy v-neck. It’s that perfect in-between where it’s thin enough to wear under a blazer yet thick enough to keep you warm.

This outfit really is just a +1 layer version of the day before’s except I swapped out the cami for a t-shirt and the loafers for boots. This formula is definitely getting added to my fall uniform formulas.

04

The sun came out on this day which to me always means “Tabi weather”, especially in autumn. Another staple from summer that I’m taking into autumn this year are these poplin culottes from Aritzia. I wore these quite a bit in Mexico City and didn’t think I’d be reaching for them in the fall but the elastic waist band and relaxed fabric makes them hard to let go of. I won’t be able to wear these into the winter but they’ve inspired me to look for a slightly longer pair that I can reach for all year long.

Culottes have definitely made a bit of a come back this year and while I can’t imagine myself purchasing more pairs, I do think they’re a “fun pant” that works well both in the “chill” and “classic” categories depending on the fabric and structure of the pant. I felt extremely comfortable in this outfit but I think adding the collared wool coat on top is what really pulls the outfit out of the comfy category and into something a little more refined.

05

I never used to be much of a v-neck sweater girl but this Nothing Written sweater that I purchased last fall really changed that. This sweater is a little shorter and thicker than the Almina Concept one but still works well layered under a jacket and I do love the relaxed slouch.

I spent the day with my sister just enjoying the sunny weather and letting her practice driving in my car. I love these vintage Tom Ford era Gucci boots to death but they’re definitely not a 10,000 steps kind of boot so I try to wear them whenever I know I’ll be driving from one place to the next. I love how they took a chill sweater and very chill Stüssy denim to a more classic and refined place.

06

Somewhere in my early 20s, I set a rule that “sweats don’t leave the house” and actually purged nearly my entire loungewear collection. Covid excused that rule for a while but I’m back to being fully committed to styling something even if I’m just running out for groceries or errands.

This was an errands day—I had to do some shopping for my mom, so I reached for an outfit formula I wore a couple of times this summer. The Line by K Zhade top fits the “fundamentals” creative pragmatist category to me by being one that pairs well with most of my bottoms while having a unique cut that doesn’t feel overly basic.

“Your basics should never be, well…basic. When they are, you feel basic too. Think about it this way: if your basics play it safe and look average, and the very point of a basic is to be worn a lot, then that means you’ll spend a lot of your life feeling pretty average.

A part of me sometimes regrets sizing up in my acne leather jacket but I do remember not loving the length of my usual size. So instead of ruminating over that choice, I’m aiming to style the oversized fit more this season.

07

I wear this outfit formula so much that I’m seriously considering expanding my denim shirt collection. I saw this James Street one on Chloe Mihailovich a while back and have it saved in my wishlist. I actually cleared out my entire denim jacket collection earlier this year because I realized I didn’t love the fit of any of the jackets so I might have to hunt for a new one soon.

I spent some time with Mika on a patio this day after a long park walk. This is another easy formula that I reach for whenever I need to run out and don’t want to be in athleisure.

Some items I’m pining for

This week I’m adding a small section for paid subscribers of some items that I’ve been eyeing or are currently in my cart. Hope this adds a little inspiration for your autumn shopping.

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I’m a little behind on my WIWTW series so this one is catching up with some end-of-summer outfits I never shared. Now that it’s fall, I’ve been really enjoying curating transitional outfits so stay tuned for the next WIWTW for some of my favorite fall pieces.

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I love a summer wedding, mostly because it means I get to pick out fun-colored dresses that I’d otherwise have no reason to wear. My wardrobe remains mostly neutral despite my efforts otherwise so I always try to experiment with colors for weddings.

One of my family friends that I grew up with got married this month so I wore this gorgeous red number from Peppermayo. While I mostly avoid shopping trendier stores now, I don’t typically invest too much money in event wear just because I’ll likely only have a handful of opportunities to wear these pieces.

Loved the flower applique on this dress and I think it fit the garden wedding theme quite well.

Here was my second option for the wedding if red ended up being a taboo color. The fit of this dress is immaculate. I’ve never had a bodice fit my body better. The ruched detailing really flatters my waist and is quite forgiving.

02

I got these vintage Diesel cargos in Berlin last year and I’m already regretting not wearing them more this summer. I have a hard time not dropping food on myself so white is always risky business. I love the so much that I’m a little too precious with them so here’s my promise that I’m going to try to style them at least 3 more times before the summer ends.

This top on the other hand has gotten so much love since I purchased it at the beginning of summer. I have my eye on Free People now because they’ve been making some really special pieces lately. The quality on both tops I own from Free People are also pleasantly great so it’s got me a little more interested in the brand.

03

While I don’t purchase as many colors as I’d like for my wardrobe, I do love using gifting as an opportunity to push my style boundaries more. This top is the perfect example of that. I’m starting to realize I love blue on myself and the style of the top is actually quite flattering on my smaller chest.

I want to write a separate post on purses but this Aest Studio one has been my most-used bag of the summer by far. It’s the size, thoughtful organization, and easy-to-wear style that keeps me reaching for it time and time again and it honestly makes for the perfect “creative girl” bag.

04

Ever since I learned about ’s wrong shoe theory, it’s been fueling my summer affair with the Havaiana flip flop. I haven’t had many opportunties to wear this Geel skirt I got on sale a while back so I was stoked to wear it out for dinner with the girls.

Black and brown is one of those pairings that will always feel chic to me and is something I’ll be bringing into my fall uniforms as well. Not shown in the photo is the cropped tan trench I wore over this but a long trench would’ve paired well as well.

05

A common complaint summer outfits is the inability to layer. I wanted to put together an outfit that had light layering pieces, while still feeling quite summery. I love that the base of this outfit is just a white t-shirt and a simple beige skirt, but the dark green cardigan tied around the waist with a mid-length trench really brings a lot of movement and texture to the outfit. I wore this out to our first culinary event and felt comfortable yet chic (which honestly is always the goal)

This outfit would also pair well with heels if you wanted to dress it up a bit. But again, wrong shoe theory works so well with my desire to always add contrast to an outfit so of course it was another Havaiana look for me.

06

I talked about the prominence of the silk slip in my fall trends article and I’m still trying to decide whether or not to keep this old one from Aritzia. The length isn’t something I typically go for as I like my slips and dresses either mini length or maxi length. It is 100% silk which I love and the lace detailing is dainty and timeless.

Wore it over a dark wash denim which I think pairs quite well but I’d love it so much more if the hemline was different. I love testing out pieces when I run errands because it gives me a reason to experiment while knowing I won’t be out for too long. Let me know if I should sell or keep in the comments!

07

I’ve reworn this denim on denim look so many times but it just never fails to look chic. Depending on what shoes and top you style it with it can look casual, elevated, or even streetwear inspired.

On another note, I’m quite taken with the Songmont Gather bag. I was deciding between the small and medium but I’m glad I went with the medium in the end because it actually fits my 14” Macbook Pro!! I don’t typically reach for this when I carry my laptop but I love knowing that I can. And of course it fits my Paper Republic journals + books perfectly which is nearly a requirement for me when it comes to bags.

I’m writing this on a Sunday evening and I’m desperately hungry for dinner but I wanted to finish this so I’m off to eat! Hope you enjoyed this week’s outfits. See you in transitional fall fits soon.

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As the leaves fall and air turns crisp, fall fashion beckons us with its promise of cozy layers and rich, warm tones. Seasonal changes always feel like a temptress, especially with aptly-timed sales and releases. This is your reminder that you don’t need to overhaul your entire wardrobe to embrace what the new style season brings.

I love reading a fall trends article as much as the next woman but what I love more is being able to breathe new life in my wardrobe without making a serious dent in my wallet. This year, I’m focusing rediscovering forgotten gems in your closet and getting creative with sustainable shopping. Whether it’s that oversized blazer you tucked away last spring or vintage accessories waiting to be discovered at your local thrift store or shopping platform, seasonal trends can be surprisingly accessible. These are some fall 2025 trends I’m loving that feel easy to recreate.

I defined my 3 style words at the start of the year and it’s been incredibly helpful when it comes to styling and deciding what pieces deserve space in my wardrobe. She has a great video around how to define your 3 style words and I landed on Undone, Refined, and Contrast. I’m thinking of writing about my personal process of picking those 3 words soon but as a refresher, the first word is your base—aka your ‘realistic’ word. The second word is your aspirational word and what you want your style to look like. The third is how you want to feel.

The trends I’ve collected below feed into my 3 words really well so if any of those words resonate with you too, then we’re on the same page.

The plaid shirt

The plaid flannel has been a thrift shop staple of mine since high school before I could actually afford to shop for myself. The problem I always had was that flannels were always a little too warm and a little too thick to layer with. I’ve been seeing the thinner sister of the plaid flannel all over social media and it makes me incredibly happy that they’re making a comeback. The best part? You can definitely thrift a perfectly oversized plaid shirt from the mens section of any thrift—they’re everywhere.

I love the ease and “undone” feeling it brings to a timeless column skirt or a pair of trousers. It has that effortless, “I just threw this on” feeling that we all love and can really dress down some of your more high-end pieces to make them more everyday appropriate. I also love that seeing it worn tied around the waist. Same visual effect but also extremely functional incase it gets cold and you need to throw on an extra layer.

Reimagining the lace slip

Last year I decided to stop sleeping in ratty XXL t-shirts and actually invest in sleepwear. While I love a good pajama set, my favorite is still my Intimissimi silk slip. The silk slip has been the epitome of sexy and chic since way before the 90s but celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Kate Moss solidified the appeal of the “rolled-out-of-bed” look

While wearing it with a barely there sandal will always feel timeless, I’m loving the layering usage over pants or a longer skirt for colder weather. Why should we stop exuding sex-appeal once the temperature drops?

My favorite look is the mini slip paired with a sweater and a relaxed trouser but using a longer slip with an oversized sweater looks great as well. If you have silky slip tops they also contrast perfectly with a casual t-shirt or some baggier pants.

Ebay has a massive range of both affordable and vintage options if you’re looking for silk and lace. Thrift stores always carry a small section of sleepwear as well. Or if you want to shop brand new, I’d recommend going to a lingerie store first rather than hitting your fast-fashion options. Better to get real silk that you want to actually sleep in rather than a synthetic fabric that isn’t breathable.

The pre-loved silk scarf

Silk scarves have always been a wardrobe staple—elegantly draped around our necks, artfully tied in our hair, or adding a pop of personality to our favorite handbags. But this season, I’m seeing them used in ways that feel fresh and unexpected. Instead of relegating them to traditional accessory status, the new trend of incorporating silk scarves as layering pieces or cinching them around your waist feels like such a smart styling move.

What I love most about this approach is how effortlessly a vintage scarf can transform an otherwise basic outfit. That simple black turtleneck and jeans? Instantly elevated with a colorful silk scarf tied at the waist. Your go-to monochrome look? Add texture and pattern without committing to an entirely new piece. It’s the kind of styling trick that feels both intentional and undone—exactly the vibe I’m always chasing.

Silk scarves are incredibly easy to find secondhand at vintage shops, thrift stores, and online resale platforms. You’ll also be able to find unique patterns you simply won’t find in stores today. You’re adding character to your wardrobe while keeping things sustainable and budget-friendly. It’s a win all around.

The fun pant

The “fun pant” is having a serious moment this fall, and I’m here for it. We’re talking cropped trousers, culottes, long baggy shorts, and even bubble pants—basically any pant silhouette that feels like the star of the show rather than a supporting player in your outfit. These aren’t your basic straight-leg jeans; they’re pieces that bring personality and shape to even the simplest top-and-shoe combination.

What’s particularly exciting is how designers and stylists are branching out into pants of varying lengths and styles, pushing us to reconsider what “appropriate” proportions look like. I’ll admit, I was shocked when culottes started making their comeback—they felt like such a specific mid-2010s trend that I thought we’d left behind. But I’ve been seeing some genuinely great looks lately, especially when paired with a long-heeled boot. That combination takes what could feel dated and transforms it into something modern and surprisingly chic.

The denim culotte-length shorts (let’s call them elevated jorts) are another standout. They bring that casual, effortless summer vibe into fall while still feeling polished enough for more than just weekend errands. It definitely feels like a natural progression from how much people have been loving pedal pushers and capris over the summer—we’re just not ready to give up those interesting hemlines yet.

The beauty of the fun pant is that it does most of the styling work for you. Pair them with a simple fitted top or tucked-in tee, add your favorite boots or loafers, and you’ve got an outfit that feels considered without trying too hard. It’s exactly the kind of piece that aligns with that “undone but refined” aesthetic I’m obsessed with.

Get creative

Fall fashion doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch or chasing every trend that crosses your feed. What I love most about this season’s standout pieces—the plaid shirt, the reimagined slip, the silk scarf, and the fun pant—is how accessible they are. They’re items you can thrift, repurpose from your own closet, or invest in thoughtfully because they’ll work hard for you season after season.

The key is finding what resonates with your personal style and making it your own. Whether that’s tying a vintage scarf around your waist, layering a slip over your favorite trousers, or finally giving those oversized plaid shirts the styling attention they deserve—it’s all about creativity and intention. These trends work because they’re flexible, sustainable, and most importantly, they feel like you.

What’s next

Besides the trendier styling methods and pieces, I personally love fall because some of my favorite timeless investment pieces all belong to this season. I’ll be sharing my favorite fall staples in an upcoming post so make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it!

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How are we back in long-pants weather? We had a brief, week-long heat wave in Vancouver and now suddenly it feels like early fall. I was recently thinking about how I’m always talking about how “time moves too fast”. So many of the conversations I have revolve around what we haven’t done yet versus what we’ve already achieved. Maybe if we stop obsessing over the speed of time, life would start to feel slower again? I’m making it a goal to try this out over the next few months.

Random tangents aside, I am actually kind of thriving because I can wear all my denim again and that makes me happy despite being a lover of summer. I might be attending a short work trip to a hot place in autumn so hopefully that’ll give me once last chance to get all the summer outfits in before I hunker down in wet Vancouver.

01

This is by far the most colorful top I own at the moment but the black stripes actually make it quite wearable. I love that primary colors are making it’s way back into everyone’s wardrobes after many years of neutrals, pastels, and other color variations. I think instead of looking at classic jewel tones and fall colours this year, I’d love to shop for a few sweaters or tops in a primary color. Love red and blue but I could be convinced to wear yellow.

02

I’ve been following Lizzy Hadfield for her timeless style for years and one of her go-to outfit formulas is a long line shirt with straight leg pants. I might finally invest in a suede option this fall but I’m currently loving this Canadian Tuxedo look. There’s a tougher “work wear” stiffness to this outfit that gives me an unreasonable amount of confidence. Or maybe it’s just because I feel the most comfortable in denim.

03

I rarely wear athleisure out and about but i had some errands to run before a workout class and I actually felt really good in this outfit. Last year I decided to only wear black workout clothes, mainly just so everything matches and it’s easy to throw on and honestly an all black workout fit with a trench just tickles my brain in the right way.

I’ve also been loving the slimmer silhouettes of Adidas Tokyos. While sambas tend to wear out and start to look a bit sloppy, the shape of the Tokyos seem to be holding up quite well. They remind me of the Margiela Sprinters that I also find so sleek.

04

There was a point in my life where I owned 8 different button down tops (and wore none of them). Now I own 2 and still for some reason, I don’t find myself reaching for it. Don’t get me wrong, I love a crisp white shirt + straight leg jean combo but at some point I decided that I over did it with shirts and cut them out altogether.

This outfit was purely a reminder that button downs will never go out of style and also who cares if they do because it just looks so good.

This top is from Low Classic and unfortunately been discontinued but I’m eyeing this Alexander Wang one (it’s also on sale!!). It’s definitely longer in length but I think the oversized fit would make for the best relaxed outfits.

05

In the spirit of trying to wear more color, I did find this Free People top on sale earlier this year and finally brought it out of hibernation. The original vision was to pair it with pedal pushers and kitten heels but I clearly forgot that pedal pushers look awful on my body so there goes that idea.

In typical me fashion, I reached for baggy jeans but I actually think this would look great with long skirts or even a polished jort moment.

Anyone that lives or has lived in Vancouver knows that the 3-4 months between June and September are what makes the year of rain and gloominess worth it. Our summer has had a late start this year but the weather is finally catching up which means I’ve been finding every excuse to get dressed and just be outside.

I will admit, since moving into my new apartment, I haven’t been spending as much time in the city as I had hoped mostly because I’ve been trying to re-train my pup Mika to be independent. However, looking at the date (I’m writing this on July 20th) was a necessary reminder that the clock is ticking and before we know it it’ll be fall again so this week I’m making it a goal to double down on her training while also prioritizing getting out of the house even more.

01

Crisp whites will always be a summer staple for me and I’ve been dying to wear this Deiji Studios skirt. Some where in my mid-twenties I learned what skirt proportions actually look good for my body type. I have naturally wider calves and long thighs which means skirts that land between the space above my knee and the widest part of my calf cuts me off at an awkward place.

If I’m looking to elongate my legs, mini skirts that hit above mid-thigh is what I am for. Or if I want a longer skirt, it needs to be a maxi shirt or something that hits under my calf.

02

I don’t know when I decided to stop experimenting with color but over the course of many closet purges, I found myself left with a very neutral (mainly black) wardrobe. I definitely feel the most confident and like myself when I’m wearing BW but I also don’t want to hold myself back from having fun with what I wear. That’s the whole point of fashion, isn’t it? To get creative and use it as another form of self-expression.

I recently did another review of outfit inspirations I’ve saved over the last few seasons and I noticed most of the color inspo I kept live within the primary color range. I’ve always known that blue is a color that works with my skin tone but I’ve been trying to find ways to incorporate reds and yellows as well.

While my heart initially urged me to get the transparent jelly sandals that you see the most often, I’m so glad I opted for the red pair instead. It’s been such a fun pop of color to throw on and I can’t wait to wear it with pants into the fall as well.

03

I love off shoulder tops but I’ll be honest, I’ve been struggling with styling this one from Pas De Calais. It works well with jeans like how I styled it in my last WIWTW but other than that, I’m feeling pretty stumped about it.

The top is a size too big for me but I picked it up vintage from Front and Company so I didn’t have much choice. The length and size is mainly what feels tough to style but I did really like it with a denim skirt and my ballerinas.

I’m not giving up on this top yet but if I can’t find another way to wear it I may have to list it on Depop. I have a strict 3 outfits minimum rule for every piece that lives in my wardrobe so fingers crossed we can make it work.

04

As I’ve been re-evaluating my style and figuring out what pieces are worth investing in, I’ve really started to strip down my outfits to basics that just fit well and feel good on my body. I’ve been a t-shirt and jeans girl for as long as I remember and since I’ve started to figure out silhouettes and styles that work better for my body, I’ve also started to look for variations of my go-to basics that I reach for the most.

After not being able to style my Pas de Calais top well, I searched for an off-shoulder tee that I would be able to throw on with anything. Originally I was eyeing this tee from KOTN but I ended up going with this one from Free People. I like that it’s a little slouchier and the extra fabric let’s you wear it in a few different ways.

05

I got to attend FVDED at the Park again this year with ADIDAS which is always a good time. It wasn’t nearly as hot as the year prior so I was pretty happy that I could actually wear long pants and just be comfortable throughout the festival.

I’ve actually been hunting for a pair of red ADIDAS pants for a while and I love that this pair is slightly wide-leg, giving it a very relaxed structure.

No other notes on this outfit. I loved wearing it for the festival and felt really comfortable the entire day.

06

I’m laughing a little as I look back on this week’s outfit photos because I’m wearing off-shoulder tops in nearly every single photo. I got sent this little white sweater from Oak and Fort and I’ve been reaching for it the most when I have long work days. It’s a thin knit making it the perfect little throw over for the summer.

The length of it throws me off a little but I just tuck it under when I wear it with jeans so that it looks slouchy rather than long.

07

On the days I don’t film, head out to a café, or see friends, I’ve been spending more time reading especially at the park. Mika gets to run around while I get to soak up the sun so it’s a win-win. This has absolutely been my go-to dog walk/park day outfit. It’s almost always paired with my Havaianas.

The biggest complaint I hear about summer is how it’s hard to dress yourself when it’s hot outside but personally I’ve always loved summer style the most. Layers are shed, clothes get more flowy and whimsical, it’s truly my favorite weather to dress for.

Here are all my current favorite summer uniforms for hotter weather.

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• 4 different moodboards for summer style

• Shoppable links for all the pieces

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Life’s been a little wild with moving, not having internet at home for 2 weeks, and then also being in the middle of several major projects so my outfits have mainly been “messy clothes” aka sweats and a t-shirt.

On the days I have been able to sneak away to do something fun, I’ve been really focusing on refining my personal style in a way that feels easy and minimal. This year, my goal is to shift towards outfits that are timeless and simple with accessories that make it more “fun”. Whether that’s in the form of a cute purse, fun jewelry, or interesting shoes—I always want to add in some contrast that makes for a interesting visual.

01

Because of the lack of internet, I’ve been spending quite a bit of time at ‘s place bumming internet (but also for the emotional support). As nice as it would’ve been to have internet during those first couple of weeks of moving in, I am glad I was forced to leave the house and just be around friends.

Outfit notes: I got this Pas De Calais shirt from Front & Company, a local consignment store a few months ago and haven’t been able to figure out how I wanted to wear it. I think it could be a really cute dress as well. Me being me, I had to try it in my classic t-shirt + jeans combo. Loved how it added a twist to a classic combo. (Yes, I know I have to clean my mirror)

I’m still trying to decide whether it’s too “messy” looking but I’m determined to get more wear out of it this summer so stay tuned.

02

I was SO excited to finally be able to wear my new Still Here New York jeans and on the second wear (shown in the outfit below) I went home and spilled fountain pen ink on it. I’ve tried all the DIY methods I could find so my last effort will be to bring it to a dry cleaners and if that doesn’t work I might have to turn them into shorts. Absolute tragedy.

Outfit notes: Our weather has been flip flopping between cool spring and early summer so getting dressed has been a little confusing. I actually had to throw on a long sleeve shirt under this ICHI button down for some warmth. Usually when I’m heading out to a café, my biggest consideration is comfort because I know I’ll be sitting and working most of the time. Part of why I loved these jeans is because it’s just the right amount of baggy where it still fit my waist quite well. Fingers crossed someone can get that stain out otherwise I may just end up repurchasing it at some point.

03

I’m in a period of reset right now and decided to push back my international move until March of next year. The original plan was to move by September but with my recent move (and break up), I’ve had to reconsider how my budget works. I knew I wouldn’t want to move in the winter so next spring felt like the next best thing.

The delay has been a hard reality to accept. So in an effort to maintain my sanity as I continue to prepare for this move, I’ve been trying to adopt some of what I was looking forward to living in Paris into my day-to-day life.

For one, I’ve been playing around with my wardrobe and outfits to reflect how I want to dress living in a new city. Vancouver can sometimes feel stifling when it comes to personal style so working through that has been a fun challenge. I want my style to further reflect my 3 style words and I’m really taking the time to curate my clothing to suit that.

Outfit notes: This outfit was built with simplicity in mind, trying to create more easy “uniforms” that I can lean on when I want to look stylish but feel like I’m lacking creativity. Straying away from my typical jeans + t-shirt combo, the trouser + cute top combo is the next best thing. These Oak + Fort trousers have been a gateway into slimmer, straight leg trousers as most of my other trousers are a bit baggier. Will have to hunt for some higher-quality replacements once these start to bag out (if you have recommendations, please let me know!)

04

Outfit notes: Another uniform that I know I’ll be repeating a lot in Europe, the slim skirt + tank combo. I love how the tank top and flip flops dresses down the skirt so much so it feels like it’s something I just threw on. (The truth is I tried on 5 different tops before landing on this specific plain black tank top 🥲)

I’ve been trying to pay more attention to wear clothing pieces fall on me and how it fits my body. I love that the tank top falls right above the waist line of the skirt and that the shirt cuts off right after my ankles. Often times it’s these small details that make or break an outfit.

05

As a denim-lover, they definitely take up the most real estate in my wardrobe. I swear each pair serves a distinct purpose but the problem with owning so many pairs of denim is that it’s so easy to always want to reach for denim. Thankfully, denim can be extremely versatile and (imo) can be dressed up or down quite easily.

I had another hermit at Summer’s house for internet and companionship so I wanted to dress comfortable and warm.

Outfit notes: I’ve had these Stüssy jeans for the majority of this year now but have only reached for them a handful of times. They are a tad long on me but not long enough that I feel like it’s worth tailoring right now. I love the classic, boy-ish fit of these. I think they’re the perfect boyfriend jean. Everything from this outfit could feel like “I stole this from my (imaginary) boyfriend) minus the little Sezane caridgan. I felt very studious in this outfit, perfect for a heavy work day.

06

Outfit notes: While I was purging for my move, I rediscovered these Arket linen pants that I purchased in Europe a few years back. Not sure why I stopped wearing these but I have a feeling they will be a summer staple this year. They have a palazzo, wide-leg style that feels really airy.

I stopped shopping at Zara (minus the occasional shoes like the flats from outfit 02) but this brown Zara tank top I got over 5 years ago has still been going strong. I love the rich chocolate brown color and I think it fits me quite well. It also has a ribbed detail that I think contrasts the texted linen pants.

After reading ’s article on Jewelry brands worth knowing, I’ve been rethinking my jewelry collection and how much wear I get from it. I’ve always been a "wear one necklace and keep it on forever” type of girl but with my outfits being simpler, I’ve been having more fun with accessorizing. I got this bolder silver chain from Pilgrim a while back and I think it adds an edgier touch to the outfit which made it feel more me.

07

I got invited to the premiere of F1 The Movie which honestly felt like my worlds were colliding. Content creation + F1 + Apple (the move was an Apple original film). I was so giddy for this one because the movie has been on my radar for months. I invited Summer to join me so of course we made it a girls date.

We had dinner at New Fuji, this cute Japanese restaurant that’s decorated to feel like a listening bar and then walked over to Be Fresh, a cute local market that’s known for yummy drinks and indie brands. I love our girl dates and this one definitely got me excited for more sunny girl time this summer.

Outfit notes: I really wanted to wear these vintage red Prada heels that I got in Milan last year but still haven’t had the chance to wear. They’re SO comfortable to walk in but I’m still definitely getting used to not having an ankle strap when it comes to kitten heels. This is another outfit I wanted to channel “effortless” and I think it does that quite well. The Still Here New York Everyday jean really is such a cool girl staple. They hug my hips and bum perfectly while still remaining straight leg and baggy throughout. Sandwiched between the dressier halter and my little red heel, it feels like the perfect casual-chic combo.

On the note of accessories, I’ve had a few beaded necklaces from my mom’s closet that I’ve never worn. I honestly have no idea where she got this one but you can find a similar one here or on etsy.

This issue is more of a “what I wore recently” but I digress. I’ve been feeling a little uninspired with my outfits lately but I think it has to do with noticing certain holes in my closet that I’m not quite ready to fill. So instead of shopping fast fashion to fill them, I’m going to take my time and save for the pieces I really love. In the mean time, I want to fall back in love with the clothes I do have and really master the art of minimal outfits.

April 8

I attended my first event of the year so it was the perfect chance to get a little more dressed up than usual. I’ve been seeing the wrap cropped trench everywhere so I had to try it for myself. Love how it looked with looser trousers and a pointed boot. Honestly this outfit was really comfortable as well so that’s always a win.

The event I attended was hosted by Amazon Influencers and Clinique since Clinique is now available on Amazon Canada. They brought in a creator who has seen a lot of success as an Amazon affiliate (her words were “I retired my husband”. Everyone gasped.) and it was really inspiring hearing her journey with affiliate marketing and how she’s able to organically integrate it into her content in a non-scammy way.

As someone who’s been in the marketing industry for 10+ years now, I can definitely agree that there are great, ethical ways to market products and then there are greasy, make-you-feel-kind-of-icky ways to do it. Loved seeing that she’s able to share the things she’s genuinely interested in / use and be able to make a living from it. A win in the marketing/content girlie world for sure.

I think that this Oak + Fort version I’m wearing is fine but the cut wasn’t hitting perfectly for me. So if you’re looking for a true, wrapped trench, I’d skip on this one.

April 11

I want to be a cowboy boot girlie so bad but not in the “sundress, floral print, denim skirt, braids” way. As with any pieces I adopt into my wardrobe, I want to make it work with my style and not adopt my style to work for a specific aesthetic. (Power to you if that’s your aesthetic by the way!! Love seeing it on others, it just doesn’t suit me)

The black and grey colorway was definitely what drew me to this boot (I actually purchased this from a REAL COWBOY STORE. That’s how dedicated I was to finding the perfect western boot). Think the boots, saddle-shaped bag, and leather jacket really play into the western feel while my classic jeans + a shirt combo keeps it feeling more wearable and me.

April 14

I both love and mildly dislike this outfit. I had a café / remote working day so I wanted to wear something I’d be comfortable in. This outfit achieved that but the whole time I was in it I could FEEL that something wasn’t hitting right.

Almost a month later I finally figured out what was wrong with the outfit—it has no visual intrigue. Individually, every piece fits me well and are pieces that I love but they only hit 2 out of my 3 style words, hence why it felt like something was missing.

Overall the look was really leaning into the “preppy” aesthetic, which is fine. What’s missing is the contrast portion. My outfits typically always include some form of tension whether it be masculine vs feminine, soft vs edgy, or even playing into something like the wrong shoe theory.

Lesson learned. I don’t hate the outfit but I definitely could’ve stepped it up.

April 18

An outfit that does hit that ‘contrast’ note is this one. I think the linen pants + wrap around black vest plays into the masculine vs feminine but also structured vs soft contradictions. I also love the mix of textures from leather to linen to a crepey material.

Back to the “visual interest” piece that I mentioned earlier, I’ve loved adding an item that stands out in an interesting way. Rather than the traditional “statement piece” which could be a pop of colour or something loud, a “visual interest” piece could be something in the same color palette but just contrasts the outfit. This vintage Miss Sixty bag I found while vintage shopping in Berlin is one I often reach for as a visual interest accessory. I love all the grommets and the cut out leather pieces. I count on this piece a lot even though it’s a quiet, muted, dark olive green color.

April 19

Girly dates are my favorite reason to head into the city. and I decided to wander around Gastown and check out a few stores we haven’t been to yet. I’ve been wanting to check out 157moments for a while and we both loved the curation and styling of the store.

This outfit is another good example of subtle visual interest. The blazer wouldn’t be the most typical choice for the summer-y tee + maxi skirt + straw bag combo which is why I think it goes so well. While it is a more structured piece, the thin wool/silk fabric still allows it to be flowy and soft. I think the flip flops really are the star of the show though. Love using flip flops as my wrong shoe theory piece so you’ll be seeing my Havianas a lot this spring/summer.

I’m going to be traveling over the next few weeks so we’ll be pausing the WIWTW series until I’m back! Instead, I’ll be writing more travel fashion content to hopefully bring outfit ideas and new shops to browse.

Until then!

This Sartorial Edit includes:

• A PSA on my “no-buy” April

• A fashion app I’m currently obsessed with

• Pieces I don’t reach for enough (but should)

Free subscribers will be able to preview most of the post. Paid subscribers will see the entire edit which includes:

• How I’m styling my vintage red Prada heels

• Shopping digest: my current wish list updates

Paid subscribers will also receive all the other paid content on Coffees With Angel like expanded articles, packing lists & premium travel guides, and all my more private thoughts & musings on life. A subscription comes out to $1.86 per week (less than a cup of coffee!) on the monthly plan.

I’d like to say that what inspired this “no-buy” month is pure discipline. The truth is it’s born from necessity. I am planning to move to Europe by the end of the year and it makes no sense to continue purchasing clothes. Moving my current wardrobe will be a Herculean task on its own.

My vestigial shopping habit, although controlled, comes in waves. Months will go buy where I don’t purchase a single new thing. Then suddenly my brain locks onto several key pieces that feel like they’re missing from my wardrobe and wham-bam-thank-you-mam—the wish list decreases and my closet size increases.

Beyond catering to practicality and doing this so that future me has less to move, I’ve also been seeing the phrase “shopping your own wardrobe” floating around. I introduced the idea of “browsing or shopping your wish list” in my last Sartorial Edit but this idea of creating a renewed sense of inspiration from your own clothes really resonated.

As a lover of clothes and someone who does occasionally get gifting from brands, I’m actually pretty happy with the current state of my wardrobe (right now). Even so, on the day-to-day, I only reach for 10% (maybe 15%) of the clothes I own. I’m a die-hard “jeans and a t-shirt” woman which is both a blessing and detriment depending on how you look at it.

So I’m officially declaring here, publicly, for the entire world to see (or at least my small community that actually read the words I write, I love you, thank you), that April is officially my “no buy”, shop my own closet month.

This month I’m focusing on

• showing love to the pieces I don’t reach for enough

• not purchasing anything new (duh)

• finding new ways to wear pieces I’ve owned for a long time

• tracking every outfit I wear in my Style Diaries series

Whether you also have a move in the horizon or you just want to challenge yourself (and save some money), it’s worth implementing a no-buy or low-buy challenge for yourself every now and again. Restriction fosters creativity and sometimes limiting ourselves to what we already own can actually push us to discover new ways of putting together outfits that we never considered before.

February + March wardrobe update

In February I had one of those rare itches to treat myself to some items on my wish list so after much debate and combing through sales I picked up 3 sweaters, 2 zip ups, 3 pairs of jeans, and 2 shirt. Like I said—wham-bam-thank-you-mam.

I’ve also been going through another closet purge and selling items I no longer wear on depop. Both for the “moving” reason but also because my closet was giving me that dreary, uninspired feeling again.

This past month, I also discovered Indyx through Anna’s Substack, The Wardrobe Edit. If you like a clean, classic, and casual style, I’d highly recommend checking her out. I’ve been inhaling her content since I found her. Indyx is a wardrobe catalogue app that allows you to track every piece you have in your closet, create and plan outfits, and record what you wear throughout the month.

Tracking my outfits in Indyx

The way that I’m addicted to this app now is crazy. It’s saving me a lot of time and headache when it comes to planning outfits, although I did spend an entire weekend cataloging my wardrobe and I’m still not done. How Indyx works is you enter each piece of clothing you own and add a photo. The app recommends that you just snap a flat-lay shot of the item but I went through the extra trouble to find a photo of each piece online. Neither method is easier, in my opinion. Just depends on what you prefer.

Once your items are in, you can create outfit photos using the items and then assign those outfits to the calendar so you can see what you’ve been (or will be) wearing each day of the month.

Besides just being a type-A’s dream, Indyx has also given me clarity into what pieces I tend to reach for the most and other wardrobe trends I didn’t realize before. The paid version gives you a ton of charts that show data like utilization (% of your wardrobe you actually wear), most/least worn items, spend by month, colors you wear the most, and (way) more. It also allows you track how much you spent on the item and it’ll calculate the cost-per-use for you. Pretty nifty stuff.

Besides just being a great habit to keep for my peace of mind, here’s why I love purging and cataloging my wardrobe:

• Seeing the gaps in your wardrobe - Cataloging gives me an easy and visual way to see what outfits I like to wear and what items are being worn the most. As I’m putting together these outfits, often I’ll start noticing that there are certain key pieces that I wished I’d had. Purging often also shows me what items I am happy to let go of and makes me ask “why”. Is it the fit? Color? Size? Style? This gives me perspective on things that I may need to upgrade or replace.

• Keeping your wardrobe fresh - There will always come a time where you clothes start to feel a little stale and demotivating. At least it happens to me. By keeping my closet clean up habits consistent, I feel a lot more connected with my clothes and I start to appreciate pieces a lot more.

• Finding items you love but never wear - There are certain pieces I absolutely love but never wear for one reason or another. By combing through my pieces often, it ensures that I know exactly what pieces I should be reaching for more and pushes me to plan outfits around those pieces often.

• Makes room for something new! - A few years back, I created a general rule of thumb that I’m only allowed to have as many pieces as my current hanger inventory allows. Meaning no purchasing more hangers just so I can hang up new pieces. If I have no more hangers to use then I must purge an item in order to make room for a new one.

Indyx definitely has re-inspired a lot of my excitement for the clothes I have. I don’t know about you but spending time trying out outfits can often feel a bit boring so being able to easily lay out outfits in the app has felt like gamifying the experience. If you’ve also been feeling a little crappy about your current wardrobe, the outfit planning and wardrobe cataloging features are totally free to use so I’d highly recommend checking it out if you want to get organized with your wardrobe.

☕️ tip: if you like to plan your outfits for trips like I do, Indyx is perfect for that as well.

Pieces I don’t reach for enough

According to Indyx as well as what I’ve noticed while cataloging my wardrobe, here are the pieces I don’t wear enough.

Vintage white diesel cargos. I honestly love these pants and my excuse for not wearing them enough is because I bought them at the tail end of last summer and just haven’t had the chance to wear them. Well, no more excuses. It’s officially warming up which means it’s time to pull them out of retirement.

Navy Nilby P peacoat. I’ve owned this coat for well over a year now and have only really worn it once. I’ve tried reaching for it a few times but I’m learning that I just don’t reach for navy pieces that much. So it’s going to consignment!

Brown and pink Adidas SL 72. Got gifted these earlier this year but haven’t reached for them. But I think for spring, they’ll be a staple.

Maison Kitsune x New Balance jacket. I love this piece but just never reach for it. Another piece that’s going to consignment!

Low Classic grey trousers. Got these the first time I visited Milan! Definitely a favorite but more of a spring piece so I’m excited to wear these again this year!

Curated silk and wool blazer. This was actually the only jacket I brought with me to Europe but since I got back I haven’t worn it. Will see if I reach for it again this Spring/Summer before I make a decision about it.

Vintage Fendi sweater. I honestly should’ve worn this more this winter. It’s a cute layering piece that gives warmth but also provides a cute collar. Will try to wear it more this spring!

Boulet cowboy boot. I hunted for a cow boy boot for so long but ended up barely wearing these. I wish they were a little taller in the shaft but let’s see if I can make them worth it this spring/summer!

Vintage Diesel leather jacket. Still one of the coolest jackets I won. It’s the perfect jacket to spice up a tee + jeans combo. Definitely a keep!

How I’m styling red heels for spring

I am determined to get as much wear out of these vintage Prada heels as I can this spring. They’re so comfortable, the square toe is so flattering, and I think it’ll be a nice pop of colour in my otherwise neutral wardrobe. As you can probably tell from my Style Diaries series and Instagram, I usually keep my outfit formulas pretty simple so having some stand out accessories, bags, or shoes is how I typically spice up an outfit.

• where I got my favorite vintage red prada heels

• 6 outfit formulas for little red heels

• Shopping digest: my current wish list updates

Read more

Welcome to the first WIWTW Wrapped—a wardrobe edit/update of my current style, analyzing the pieces I’ve worn the most, my favorite outfits, and style moodboards for the quarter. Paid subscribers get full access to this entire post along with every other paid post in the archive. Free subscribers will get a preview along with my usual “What I wore this week” posts. If you’d like to see more of these in-depth style analyses, travel guides, and more, upgrade and join our coffee club <3

This post is slightly too long for emails so read the full article here.

It’s been over a month since I started tracking my outfits in my What I wore this week (WIWTW) series as well as on Indyx, the clothing catalogue app I’ve been obsessed with. I’ve always tracked my outfits in one way or another, but this was actually the first time that I’ve been thorough about keeping track of the items I’m wearing, how I’m styling them, and documenting what those outfits look like either in photos or through a flat lay.

Initially my goal really was to just see what items I reach for the most and also to use Indyx as a way to plan outfits without having to try them on but the process of tracking has actually taught me a lot about my personal style and what I reach for day to day.

This WIWTW wrapped is a fun way for me to analyze my current wardrobe but also share some of the pieces I reach for the most season by season. So here’s my Q1 WIWTW wrapped.

My most worn items

*starred items were purchased during Q1. I wanted to mark out the items that are new vs the items I’ve had for a while so we can see how many of my most worn pieces is just because they’re new.

Flattered Loafers - I’ve had these loafers for over 5 years now and they’re still going strong! It just proves that when you invest in a staple piece, it’ll take you a lot further.

White Tee - I still feel like I’m on the hunt for the perfect white tee. Thinking of trying the Leset Margo tee that everyone talks about next. I currently love my Sezane Conrad tee and my Uniqlo baby tee but sometimes I feel like I need something in between. The Conrad tee is a little too thin at times and the Uniqlo slightly too fitted.

Read more

Monday

The best part about doing a no-buy month is that it forces you to get more creative with what you already have. That plus the major closet purging I’ve been doing has been a great reminder that I have some beautiful pieces in my closet that I don’t reach for enough. One example is this cinched blazer that I’ve only worn once. In my defence it’s been way to cold for it but now that we’re getting some semblance of spring, I definitely want to get more wear out of it. I’m thinking it may be kind of fun to start doing themed weeks. Like picking one piece that I want to wear more and just styling it 7 different ways throughout the days. Let me know if you’d want to see that!

* FM2050 no longer has this cinched blazer but if I were to upgrade it, I would definitely get this one for it’s amazing structured shape and length or this one which was the very first cinched blazer I tried and fell in love with.

Wednesday

On Wednesday I needed to run some errands in the city so my partner and I decided to grab some coffee from Revolver since we hadn’t been there in a while. I’ve been spending more time rediscovering my own city (before I move away to Europe!) and have been falling back in love with the coffee/cafe culture here. If you’ve also been feeling uninspired in your home city, I’d highly recommend making it a challenge for yourself to rediscover the simple joys you used to love!

*These Church’s sandals were one of my favorite purchases from my trip to Milan last year but sadly they’ve been discontinued. This Everlane pair would be the perfect alternative or Church’s new version of the sandal!

Thursday

Trousers are some of my favorite WFH pants to wear because they look put together but are still very comfortable to lounge around in. Didn’t actually leave the house on Thursday but I think this outfit would’ve been a great one to wear with my vintage Prada heels.

Friday

We had such a beautiful day on Friday so I decided to take myself on a solo writing day to a local cafe, Buvette. The fact that it’s one jacket weather makes me SO happy (although this week the rain is back :( )

I’ve been reaching for these jeans a lot for WFH days as well because the slouchy, relaxed fit makes them so comfortable to sit around in. Been really inspired by Linda’s outfits this spring, specially her eye for color-theory. It’s what inspired the brown tones in this outfit.

Sunday

I spent Sunday with and it reminded me of how important it is to schedule girl dates! It was sunny in Vancouver (rare) so we decided to walk around Granville Island and check out the book stores there.

It was the first semi-warm spring day we’ve had so of course the Tabi flats came out with me instantly. I’ve also been loving seeing cropped trench coats all over my feed! I’ve owned this one from JNBY for a few years now so it’s a bit of a full-circle moment for sure. Sadly it’s discontinued but the infamous Frankie Shop one is to die for!

Monday

I mentioned in my last WIWTW that on Sunday I started my big closet clean out and went through every pair of shoes I owned. From that I created 3 separate piles: keeps, maybes, and nos. The maybe pile mainly holds shoes that I love but rarely wear so throughout the rest of spring I’m going to try to style them as much as possible to see if I could work them into my regular rotation.

One of those shoes were my beloved Boulet western boot. I bought these a few years back and got 2-3 outfits out of them before they got put in the back of my shoe shelf. I’m determined to style these spring (mostly because I don’t want to let them go) so here’s how I wore them with a go-to outfit of mine.

With more unique pieces or pieces that belonged to a micro-trend, instead of succumbing to the whole aesthetic, I’ll often try to find ways to work them into my personal style. I find that by doing that I’m way more likely to wear the item plus I’m not suddenly going from minimal outfits to a full-on western outfit. Personal branding matters!

I feel like this isn’t an outfit that everyone will love but that’s the fun part about personal style—it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks! I love the outfit, I feel good in it, and the cowboy boots make me feel like a kid again.

Tuesday

A continuation of my closet clean out! Today I tackled coats, jackets, and skirts. It took me about 2 hours to try everything on, make a decision about each item, and then pack away the items I’m taking to consignment on Thursday.

If you’re planning on doing some spring cleaning for your wardrobe, I’d highly recommend working in categories and then taking every single item out of your closet within a category and laying them out. Seeing everything in a pile or laid out really puts into perspective how many items you own. In the past I would only take out the items I knew I wanted to purge so this was definitely a wake up call for me. Hopefully the consignment store will appreciate the 100L massive duffel of clothes I’m bringing in.

I LOVE this cardigan that I bought when I was in Copenhagen and I definitely don’t wear it enough. I think it’s mainly because it’s navy but I’m determined to style it more this spring.

Wednesday

It was POURING outside which is the biggest demotivator for leaving the house. The temperature decided to drop back to 5°C as well—guess we aren’t quite in spring. It was mainly just an editing day and planning day for me and I only left the house to pick up some packages. I always seem to reach for the NLT barrel pants on days like this—mostly because they’re super baggy but still look put together.

*Even the jacket shown in the flat lay isn’t the exact one I’m wearing. The one I have is from Oak+Fort and may be one of the only things I own from them that I’ve continued to love.

**I’ve owned this Aritzia tote for AGES and it’s still one of my go-tos when I have to carry a laptop and some books. It’s just such an easy one to throw over any outfit and looks a bit more chic than a canvas tote.

Thursday

Thursday was the only day I went to city this week and I thought I would have time to snap a cute outfit picture while I was down there. I ended up going to Front & Company to drop off a bunch of clothes for consignment and then caught up over lunch with my friend Robbie. It was actually sunny most of the day but of course right after lunch it started to HAIL and then rain so I ended up just rushing home to get out of the rain. So please excuse the crappy outfit photo—I snapped it quickly while I was at the consignment store.

Now looking back, I do wish I wore a higher waisted jean. Not loving the mid-drift in this particular outfit but we live and we learn. Was so happy to finally be able to pull out my Tabi ballerinas from storage but that’s also why I decided to head straight up after. Not about to ruin these babies.

I almost bought these TIBI mules while I was at Front and Company but we’re still on our NO BUY MARCH so I resisted. But man were they comfy and I’m obsessed with the square toe. I went home and browsed their site for a while and fell in love with these loafers and these boots too.

Friday

I LOVE a co-ord, especially a dark denim co-ord. I have so many saved on my Pinterest boards over the years but I can’t justify purchasing a nicer set because I realized that I hardly wear the denim tops with anything other than the matching bottoms. I got this dark denim workwear shirt a while back from Revolve and it has a matching mini skirt. However, I found that the color of these jeans actually go pretty well with the shirt so this you best bet I will be repeating this outfit a LOT this spring. There’s something so chic about a matching denim set and it’s the easiest outfit choice.

Saturday

I was absolutely having a lazy day on Saturday and I was so tempted to just stay in my pajamas all day. I got this Pajama set from Gap back in February and it’s been like a gateway drug to the fancy pajama world. Thinking about doing an entire post on this soon because I can’t believe I ever lived without a pajama set.

I wasn’t about to break my own rule about changing out of pajamas as a part of my morning routine so I picked an outfit that pretty much felt like pajamas but in my eyes is a little more put together. These garage pants make me feel like a hot pilates mom and honestly that makes me really happy. I didn’t leave the house at all (it was also POURING outside) but if I did I would’ve just thrown on flats and a cute purse.

Sunday

On Sunday I actually drove up to Whistler to see and a few other friends because they were up there skiing. Every time I go to Whistler I end up reaching for a fur jacket because nothing says “snow bunny” more than a cute cropped fur piece. Haven’t gotten enough wear out of this jacket so I thought it was the perfect occasion. Also I LOVE these snow boots from Emu but they just get dirty so easily.

I finally stopped by Arabica and it was SO nice inside. Not a great use of space but beautifully designed. They had a milky soft serve that was phenomenal—if you’re going up to Whistler any time soon, would highly recommend checking it out.

Welcome back to WIWTW, issue 2! I decided to switch the schedule to Mondays so that I have time on Sunday to write the details of my outfit of the day. So expect a WIWTW every Monday from now on <3 This series is a part of The Style Guide—a section of Coffees With Angel where we can chat about personal style, wardrobe curation, and the art of dressing with purpose. From outfit formulas to shopping smarter, this section is all about building a wardrobe that feels both effortless and uniquely you.

Monday

Monday was just a WFH day for me. I planned on doing some meal-prepping so ended up changing into an old ratty t-shirt later on (but no one needs to see that). I was itching to wear this new cropped, boxy dress shirt from the Uniqlo x JW Anderson collaboration so I thought I would look put together for the first half of the day. Honestly I’m not usually a fan of cropped dress shirts but along the with the boxy fit I think it’s actually quite chic. I ended up keeping the medium so that it fits slightly more boxy but I do prefer to wear it barely-buttoned so that I show a little more skin.

As someone who has very square shoulders, sometimes boxy fits can look a little too “proper” on me. especially paired with the relaxed denim, I think having my lace bra peek out is just the right touch of feminine that the outfit needed.

*The Acne coat is a personal fave so here are some alternatives in case you’re also looking for a good peacoat!

The Row Polli Double-Breasted Wool (it’s on sale and comes to about the same as the Acne!)

COS Double Faced Wool Pea Coat (more affordable alternative and honestly it looks just like it)

Loulou Studio Linda Wool-Cashmere Blazer

Tuesday

While I’m a huge homebody most of the time, every few days I get an itch to leave the house and switch up my work environment so I can get re-inspired. On Tuesday, since I had to mail out a bunch of depop orders, I decided to check out Deville, a cafè that I haven’t been to yet. The only Simons department store in our city is right by Deville so I popped in to see what they had for spring.

I really wanted to wear my new jacket from Nache which probably was a mistake because it started to POUR mid-day. So it was a lot of running between overhangs for me. Nonetheless, I want to make sure I get as much wear out of this jacket as I can before it gets too warm to wear it.

I’ve been feeling inspired lately to rediscover pieces in my closet that I never reach for. I do a closet purge and organize every couple of months, but I realized that even after getting rid of 4 full-sized suitcases of clothes, I still only reached for 10% of my items. It’s not even that I don’t love the pieces that remain—I honestly just think I got lazy! It’s also partially why I started the WIWTW series—so I can track what I’m wearing and get creative again with fashion.

*Also, I mentioned in my first Sartorial Edit: Investing in worthy pieces + a low buy year that I stopped shopping at Zara a few years back. I think these jeans were the last things I purchased there and I will say—Zara jeans have always worked for my body. I know it doesn’t fit right for a lot of people but for some magical reason, the sizing and fit works for me. Although I no longer shop at Zara for denim (or anything else), I’m not going to lie and say I wouldn’t recommend these jeans.

I don’t know if they still carry this exact style but this one was the closest I could find. If you’re also on a Zara ban like I am, I think this Citizens of Humanity pair has a very similar wash and drape. I also think these AGOLDE ones would look very similar. Or these for a high rise fit.

Wednesday

Wednesday was a WFH day but more exciting than that, I made Banana bread for the first time! I did choose my outfit before I made the bread but it feels very apropos for the occasion. This winter I went on a rampage looking for the perfect brown sweater. I got gifted this one from Oak+Fort and loved the color but wanted something with a different shape. Malissa, whom I’ve been following for a few years now talked highly about her oatmeal-colored sweater from Nothing Written and lo and behold, they had a brown one as well!

I wish I was someone who had just one signature scent but just like with my personal style, I like to switch things up depending on my mood and the day. I quite literally couldn’t help myself with this scent—one of the notes is “freshly baked bread.” This may sound off putting to some, but it’s not your typical gourmand. The bread note just adds a warm, comforting softness to the overall spicy amber. It’s delectable. I would categorize it as a fall/winter scent but it’s perfect with this outfit and my bread baking day.

Thursday

I did a shop in February and finally bit the bullet on the Entire Studios zip ups. I’ve had them on my wish list since the end of 2023 but just didn’t think I needed it. Do I need it now? I mean probably no. But I have been doing a major purge lately and realized I didn’t have zip ups that I loved so it at least fills a very specific hole in my wardrobe.

What I love about these zips is the unique neckline. I finally picked out my 3 style words (courtesy of Allison Bornstein’s 3 words method). Here’s how I would describe my style (and what I hope to work more towards)

• Undone - casual, relaxed, “off-duty”

• Contrasting - mixing hard with soft, edgy with classic, high and low

• Refined - structured, classic, preppy, minimalistic

I also took the style archetype quiz on Indyx and the words I got from that quiz were

• Minimalistic

• Avant Garde

• Edgy

(I actually think that those work really well as well but I like that my words are a little more broad and encompassing.)

Any who, all that’s to say that I think this zip up fits really well into my 3 words. Aka how I justified purchasing both the cropped and the regular length version.

* I got these Gucci boots on The Real Real for a steal ($180!!) a few years ago. To my knowledge, they’re from the Tom Ford era and although I spent nearly the same amount getting them resoled, they’re still a win in my books. For an alternative, these ones have a very similar style (even the front stitch is the same), the shape of these ones are BEAUTIFUL, and these have a unique heel detail.

Friday

On Friday I finally booked in with my hairdresser! It’s been tough booking with her because either I was traveling or she was but I’m so glad to finally get a trim. If you’re in Vancouver and are looking for an amazing Korean hairdresser, I’d highly recommend Mia. Her IG is @aimduolx. I actually had a cute spring outfit planned but of course Vancouver threatened to rain so I ended up dressing for warmth.

I actually got this Burberry Bradford trench back in September but this is the first time that I’m wearing it! It’s from their 2024 collection and is actually reversible with a beautiful green on one side and a modern twist to the classic Burberry check in blue and green on the inside. Love how the green side looks with an all black outfit so I’m glad we’re finally back in the trench temperature range.

*The trench is nearly sold out everywhere! But this one is a gorgeous alternative. I LOVE the collar on this one, might save it on my wish list. And of course THIS is the dream green trench.

** Soft Goat no longer has the black version of this sweater but here it is in navy. I think this one is a great alternative but just take note of sizing as it is a men’s sweater. I personally love shopping the men’s section for sweaters because typically I like the fit better. This one from Arket has a lovely braided detail that could be a fun twist. Also this Toteme one on TheRealReal is such a good deal.

To keep me a bit warmer, I also wrapped my matching Soft Goat scarf (available in taupe or navy here) around the jacket. Definitely feeling inspired by The Row’s Spring 2025 look book. Here’s your reminder that you can use items you already have to put together inspired looks!

Saturday

I had plans on Saturday to see friends but I ended up getting my monthly demon cramps and was bedridden all day. Usually even when I’m just hanging around the house I’ll at least put on jeans and a t-shirt but I pretty much stayed either in bed or on the couch all day so it was a sweatsuit kind of day. Sweatpants might be the only item of clothing that I have yet to find a reason to invest in. I do love this pair from Studio Niksen (as styled by my friend Vernice here) but it’s still sitting quite low on my wish list priority order.

A sweatsuit that I do love (and currently own 3 colors in) are these from Garage. I didn’t end up buying the matching hoodie or zip but I did get the matching camis and long sleeve shirts. I actually love basics from Garage for the affordability and these 3 items specifically were great quality. I think a tight long sleeve in the same colour as a cute pair of sweats is the perfect leisure yet fitted outfit and I was wearing my brown set all day.

Sunday

Sunday ended up being a decluttering day for me. I was originally going to film a podcast episode but decluttering my shoes took so long (and also all my energy) that I decided to postpone the filming. After doing a final count, I realized I owned 65 pairs of shoes. I know it’s insanity, hence the decluttering. I whittled it down to about half, most of which I’m taking to consign this week. The rest is a mix of pairs I’m keeping for sure and pairs I’m still debating about. I’ve put the pairs I’m debating about aisde and I’ll be spending the spring season trying to get as much wear out of them as possible to see what I should actually keep.

Went with a super simple Sunday outfit. I’m still unsure about these straight leg jeans. Some days I like them, other days I feel meh about them. Also I love a oversized dress shirt but this one is a little too oversized. It may end up going on depop. I do like the light blue and white striping though and this one from Zara looks pretty similar.

If I left the house on Sunday (which I didn’t), I would’ve thrown on a leather jacket + some flats. I also think the cognac Polene Cyme bag looks great with the blue tones in the outfit.

That’s all for this week! Definitely fell off on the weekend but I’ve been planning outfits on Indyx in my free time so I think next week will be a great outfit week!

Also, I did create a separate section called “The Style Guide” for all my fashion related posts. The Style Guide will be purely dedicated to personal style tips, intentional shopping, and balancing trends and timeless styles. If you’re not interested in personal style content, you can go to your settings and unclick The Style Edit section. I do hope you stay, and enjoy it as much as my main posts!

Monday

Do I go to cafes just to dress up or do I dress up just to go to cafes? Either way, I was excited to put on a cute outfit and get out of the house because it was finally sunny after a stint of gloom. I got gifted this brown sweater from Oak + Fort a while back but I decided to sell it on my Depop. The length was a tad too short for my long torso so hopefully it’ll find a new home.

Tuesday

Just a WFH day but I was dying to wear my new Uniqlo x JW Anderson jeans so I thought why not just style it the way I would’ve if I was going out. One of my goals this year is actually to wear my outside outfits inside more. I do get out of my PJs first thing in the morning but why not put the extra effort in so I can look good and feel good even when I’m just at home? Anyways, these jeans have now become a staple. I shamelessly own them in all 3 shades.

If you want a low waist baggy fit, I’d suggest going up 2 sizes.

Wednesday

Another WFH day but I did pop out to a cafe to read for a couple hours in the afternoon. I love a groutfit (all gray outfit) although sadly I no longer have any grey coats. I’m still uncertain about this Sezane cardigan but it is growing on me more and more.

Thursday

I’ve been trying to schedule one day a week for just fun, creative days with friends. This Thursday, I met up with Vernice and we cafe-hopped on Main street. Honestly love having these types of days. A little bit of work, some pastries, some browsing.

Friday

Another day at home. I actually took a slow day and spent a bunch of time planning for Substack posts and setting up my Indyx wardrobe. Really loving their app so far and I honestly spent too many hours saving all my clothes and planning outfits. I kid you not when I say I’ve been wearing the Uniqlo x JW Anderson jeans non-stop. I reach for them especially on WFH days because the oversized fit makes them so comfortable.

Saturday

After obsessively reading The Wardrobe Edit on Friday, I downloaded Indyx and started to catalogue my entire wardrobe. Wardrobe blindness has been an issue of mine for so long so anything that brings a little more clarity into what I own, what I wear the most, and what’s not getting enough love is a win in my books. Even as someone who does a wardrobe purge nearly monthly, I still have troubles reaching for more than just my usual 10-20 pieces. So hopefully this will help with that!

Saturday’s outfit contains entirely of pieces that I know I love but don’t reach for enough.

Sunday

Had such a lovely Sunday! My partner and I decided to enjoy the nice weather and get into town for some pastries. It’s been a while since I’ve had a croissant so I got an almond croissant that hit the spot. This is another outfit built around some pieces that I don’t reach for enough. I got both jacket and denim jacket years ago and although I love the style of both, they just never seem to make it into my daily outfits. Here’s to the year we actually wear all of our clothes.

Also for anyone else who owns the infamous New Yorker tote—do you find yourself reaching for this ALL THE TIME? Why is it my default “I’m not sure what bag to wear” bag. Is it the black on beige color theme? Is it the fun font? What makes this bag so wearable? Something for me to ponder as I learn more about my go-to pieces.

See you next Sunday! 💌

Throughout my twenties, this ambiguous personal style of mine caused me a lot of confusion but now at the tail-end of this decade, I’m actually quite proud and happy with my style. There’s almost a sense of pride that comes from not being able to be categorized under one bucket. Although that, in itself, probably draws from my self-acceptance and learning to love that I’m a multi-hyphenate, un-niche-able human being.

The one common thread in my purchasing and styling has been shifting my focus towards not buying as much cheap, fast fashion items and instead saving for investment pieces that I know I’ll keep around forever. It started with banning Zara, H&M, Forever 21, Aritzia (and some others) from my shopping list. Nothing I bought from those brands really lasted more than 1 or 2 seasons. Then it was figuring out what pieces I wore the most, and how I could potentially trade-up for similar styles made from nicer materials.

In understanding myself better, I was also able to learn what clothes I reached for the most, what I felt most confident in, and what was worth investing in. Although I still sweat a little spending hundreds of dollars on a single sweater, or a terrifying four digital number on a jacket or a pair of shoes—I do feel a sense of pride in being able to confidently invest in pieces I know is worth it*.

I definitely didn’t cut my cheap fast-fashion buying habits instantly. It honestly took me years to learn restraint and discipline when it came to shopping. There are still a few exceptions I’ll make when it comes to purchasing from more affordable brands. I personally still love Garage for sweatpants, tank tops, and leisurewear. Uniqlo is also one of my faves for basics. But walking into Mango, Forever 21, Zara really isn’t something I care to do anymore and that habit has made my wardrobe so much more fulfilling.

*”Worth it” is going to mean different things to different people. Humans place value in different things and since fashion is a big part of my creative outlet, I’m willing to splurge on pieces that I’ll get a ton of wear from.

What to look for in investment pieces

Aka everything I consider seriously before I purchase, especially for my low buy year.

If you’ve also been considering changing your buying habits to only investing in quality pieces here’s what I look for now in (nearly) every piece I buy.

• The material - this is by far the most important thing to me now. Is my sweater actually wool, alpaca, cashmere, or some other natural fibre? Or am I purchasing an acrylic sweater that isn’t worth what it costs and will look awful very quickly?

• The fit - I love a good trend but does this piece actually look good on my body? Does the length, width, texture fit well with other things in my closet? If I’m buying a top, I make sure I can wear it with at least 5-10 bottoms I already own and vice versa.

• The construction - Check the stitching, seams, and overall craftsmanship. Quality pieces have clean, sturdy stitches with no loose threads. Examine buttons, zippers, and other hardware to ensure they're securely attached and operate smoothly.

• The versatility - Consider how many different ways you can style the item. Versatile pieces that can transition between seasons or occasions provide better value and longevity in your wardrobe. Also going back to the point of making sure the item you’re purchasing can be worn with AT LEAST 10 other pieces in your closet.

• Cost per wear - Instead of focusing on the price tag, think about how often you'll wear an item. A $200 coat worn 100 times (at $2 per wear) is more economical than a $50 trendy piece worn twice ($25 per wear).

• The timelessness - Will this piece still feel relevant in 3-5 years? Investing in classic silhouettes and colors that transcend fast-moving trends ensures your wardrobe remains functional and stylish for a long time. Again, I love a good trendy or edgy piece. My style has remained pretty consistent for the past few years so that’s a good tell for me on what types of trendy/edgy/statement pieces I actually would wear for many more years to come.

Create a wish list—and follow it

Something I can thank my younger self for is starting the habit of creating Pinterest boards for saving outfits. I’ve done this since 2018 and I’ve always split the boards up into S/S (spring summer) and F/W (fall winter). Looking back at some of my older boards I am SO thankful that I didn’t end up purchasing many of the pieces. My style has drastically changed since then (thank GOD) and only started to become more consistent in the last 3ish years.

Besides having Pinterest as a time capsule for my personal style, I also have been creating wish list for a few years now. I definitely do not purchase everything on my wish list, I couldn’t afford to. The point of the wish list really is just to give myself some time to consider whether or not I really want that item or whether I was just shopping on whim. Here’s how to do it:

1. Whenever you find something that you really like, instead of impulse buying, put it on your wish list.

2. Budget for shopping! After you know you’ve covered all other expenses, set aside a small budget each month towards a shopping fund. The goal is to only spend what you have within this fund. I’ve been using the YNAB (You Need a Budget) app for about 8 years now and it’s the best thing to have ever happened to my finances.

3. When you’re in a shopping mood, instead of browsing websites and clicking add-to-cart, browse your own wish list. How do you feel about these items after a week? A month? A quarter? A year? Do you still LOVE that piece and want to obtain it?

4. If there’s something that’s been sitting on your list for a while and you have enough to cover it with your shopping fund—buy it. You’ve waited it out, you’ve budgeted for the item, you deserve it.

Tip: I’ve been using the Moonsift app for a few years now to track my wish list. It has a Chrome extension that allows you to quickly save items to specific wish lists. It will also notify you if something goes on sale. It’s been the easiest way for me to keep track of things I’m loving.

Things I’ve invested in

Here are some of the pieces I’ve purchased in the last year that I think were worth the investment. The pieces shown here were all purchased new—I purposely didn’t include items I purchased vintage because there are added rules when it comes to hunting for vintage. Things like price influxes, condition, when and where you buy it. (Let me know if you want a separate article on hunting for vintage investment pieces!)

Acne Studios Leather Jacket - I’ve been pining for an Acne Studios leather probably since I was 15. I ended up purchasing this specific style because while it still has a cool, moto look, the silhouette and style is also slightly more unique.

Nothing Written Pound Sweater - This is a recent purchase. I’ve been looking for a quality v-neck sweater in a chocolate brown and this ended up being the perfect, relaxed, alpaca + wool piece.

Margiela Tabi Boots, Painted Tabi Flats, & Tabi Ballerinas - Another piece I’ve pined over since the Tumblr days. I don’t wear my Margiela pieces all the time (I do live a city that rains a lot) but whenever I can, these are what I reach for.

Remain Sweater - Discovered this Copenhagen based brand a while ago and found this piece on SSENSE on sale for half off. This is one of those pieces that just goes with everything whether I’m trying to dress tomboy femme or like a classic Parisian girlie.

Ganni Striped Dress - Actually found this piece at the Ganni Archive store in CPH. Everything about it is perfect—the fact that it’s a mini, the cut, the way it sits on my body, the way the dress actually compliments my square shoulders.

Behind the paywall, you’ll find:

• Things I’m currently pining for—my wish list since Dec 2024 along with links

• Details on my low buy challenge for the year

• Some of my most worn pieces

Read more

It all started with Gucci's infamous bamboo bags. There's something so whimsical about the structured handles that makes even a classic bag silhouette look unique. I actually came to Milan with a Tom Ford era Gucci bamboo leather tote in mind—a vintage reseller I follow had one in stock and I reached out to see if they'd be able to meet up since they're based in Milan.

But of course, they happened to be hosting a pop-up in a different city the exact week I was in Milan so of course me being a stubborn Taurus, I was determined to find a replacement.

It's impossible to deny that Tom Ford made a huge impact on all the brands he's worked with. To this day, vintage sellers everywhere still has his "eras" on their lips. The Tom Ford Gucci era was iconic. The Tom Ford YSL era was indisputable.

Although the infamous bamboo handle was created by Guccio Gucci long before Tom Ford took the helm, he made the structural handle his own by designing some of the most iconic bags with this feature.

"What bamboo is to Gucci, the horn is now to Saint Laurent." That was Tom Ford's thought when he created the Mombasa bag. It has been blowing up across social media and vintage markets for the past two years and is another famously uncomfortable bag to carry. What makes these perfectly impractical bags so desirable? That's a question I've been pondering over the last few days as I combed through shop to shop looking for one myself.

I loved this article published by Neverworns, an archival fashion publication I've been obsessed with. In the article, she so accurate describes:

"These hard handle bags are a ladylike moment. A truly elegant expression. It looks stellar to carry them unstuffed and unbothered without a care in the world by one’s side."

Is that what creates the allure around these bags? Anyone can see that they aren't crafted for practicality. So if not for function what other reason could there be than purely for form?

A week into my Milan trip, I stumbled across a small vintage shop near Parco Sempione called My Vintage Attire. Some how I missed this spot in my perusal of Google Maps but I took it as a sign from the Universe because low and behold the first bag I saw walking into the store was a Tom Ford era Jackie bag with a bamboo handle.

Besides the beautiful Jackie bag, this store had the best vintage curation I've seen in a long time. There was a stunning denim Mombasa that I nearly took home as well. 4 different Fendi oyster bags and a ton of other bags and other accessories that belong in a vintage collector's wet dream.

Needless to say, I am now the proud owner of this uncomfortable bag that doesn't carry much. So it's fashion: 1, Angel: 0. Although this was definitely a W in my books.