Photo credit: Simon Pais-Thomas
In what seems like another life, I used to be quite the fashionista. During my early years of university I worked at a variety of retail clothing stores, from Le Chateau to Club Monaco to the Gap and finally Boutique Jacob. Because of my flare for style back then, I even got a gig as a merchandiser, a job that involved dressing up mannequins and display boards. It was like playing doll.
I became a clothes hog. Every paycheque went toward buying some new item to feed my addiction.
But eventually the reality of a career and life kicked in. No disrespect to the folks who make and earn a living as sales associates and retail store managers, but I needed to move on. I had to find “real work” where I could write and do the things that interested me most which meant no more beloved discounts (up to 50%!).
As the years went by, my wardrobe dwindled. I had to choose more carefully clothes that would outlast one season’s trends. Then, I decided to go back to school as a full-time mature student. There I fell into a wardrobe of jeans and t-shirts.
But it was worth it in the end. Though I may look shabby, today I’m in a dream job making good money to do what I love most: writing, reading, and interacting. It also means I’m finally back in the financial position to buy nice clothes.
Alas, here is my dilemma. I am now out of the fashion loop.
Since declaring I would not buy a fashion magazine because of the industry’s flagrant disregard for the environment, I have been mostly without a clue. There are days where I manage to look stylish but then there are other days where I feel that I may be a fashion train wreck.
In eight sleeps time, Cokebaby and I will be travelling to the south of France for our (belated due to conflicting schedules) 10 year anniversary. Coincidentally, we’ll be there in the middle of soldes d’hiver, a massive nationwide sale.
So my question is: what to buy?!
This is a fashion 911 emergency. Someone please save me.
Is there something fun that should be in every girl’s wardrobe for the upcoming season? And what about Cokebaby? Or Tofu (I’m assuming there will be dog boutiques)?
Kimberly Walsh is a social media and online community manager. You can follow her on Twitter @AliasGrace.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I hear you. My wardrobe needs a major refresh especially in the shoe department. After having a 50% discount for years, it’s tough to go back to full price cold turkey.
I’m totally not the right person to ask. I wear whatever fits and whatever I think doesn’t scream “grandma.” My sister got all the fashionable genes.
1. Dresses with full skirts
2. Chunky bracelets and any tribal-inspired accessories
3. Shoes in bright colours (yes, patent is still in)
4. Trenchcoats
5. Anything in sheer or floral (personally, I’m not a fan, but it’s always a major spring trend)
I may dress like the gothic daugter of Riff Randall, but I still likes to thinks that I still know what’s at least meant to be cool.
Ben: Over the years I’ve actually considered taking a very part-time job in retail just for the discount.
Jenn: I have my share of what Cokebaby refers to as “librarian” sweaters.
Racquel: You are my hero of the day. I’ll be on the lookout for #1 & 2. I already have one pair of bright coloured floral shoes (I hope they still count as fashionable this spring/summer).
I’ve been wardrobe downsizing for a few years now and I highly recommend it if your job/identity don’t require too many clothes.
Can’t recomment a wardrobe for the trip but here is someone who can and will help you.
http://thechronicleherald.ca/forum/list/2
Gifted: Thanks for the Ask Eva tip. I think my problem is that I downsized so much of my wardrobe in the past few years that I don’t feel like I’ve got any style left. Maybe it’s just a phase but something in me just wants to make a bit more effort in how I look on the outside after so many years of focusing on the inside. To strike a balance would be lovely.