Living in the North can threaten your style. Most of us dress weather-appropriate and forget about whether a blue North Face jacket will go well with a green pair of Sorels.
But hear me, Yukoners – we can turn this around! We can make the winter season a positive one. Layers are in. Footwear is fun.
Fashion sense is not something you’re born with, but it’s something you can obtain. Style is the ability to wear on the outside what inspires you on the inside.
If you’re questioning your sense of style, you can measure your success by asking a stranger what they think is your favourite music.
If they are bang on, you’re doing great. But if they thought your favourite was Pussycat Dolls and it’s really Arcade Fire, you have work to do.
In my search to know where fashionable Yukoners get their inspiration, I hit the streets and talked to two strangers. The first person I spoke with was Emily McDonald.
FH: Is there an interesting story to something that you’re wearing right now?
EM: I have a policy that I only buy my Chucks (Converse shoes) in places where I don’t live. To keep things interesting.
FH: If you could choose a theme song for your life what would it be?
EM: “This Charming Man” (The Smiths).
FH: What is the most important article of clothing in your wardrobe?
EM: Any of my dark denim jeans. They make it look like you put effort into what you’re wearing.
Next, I spoke with Margriet Aasman about her fashion choices.
FH: Is there an interesting story to something that you’re wearing right now?
MA: My boots. I love these boots, I bought them in about 15 minutes and they’re probably one of the most expensive pair of boots I’ve ever bought.
We were in Victoria and had to catch a plane. I ran all the way from the hotel to the store.
I picked these up – they said ‘size 9.’ Another woman saw me put them on and asked, “Can I try those on?”
It was the last pair available. Once I saw them on her, in all their purple glory, I knew I had to have them. It was like haggling.
FH: If you could choose a theme song for your life what would it be?
MA: “I Have a Dream (ABBA)
FH: What is the most important article of clothing in your wardrobe?
MA: That’s a hard one, I love everything. Lately, it’s shoes. I love Fluevog (John Fluevog Shoes, Vancouver). I’m not wearing them today, but I love my Fluevogs.
As Fashionhorse grows, keep your eye out because you may be stopped by this fashionista. I’m looking for people who have a style of their own.
Downtown Whitehorse is busiest during the weekend, so that’s when I’ll be out and about looking for fashionable Yukoners.
And beyond Whitehorse? Dawson, don’t worry, I would never forget about you (some of my most prized outfits are from Dawson City).
And if I ever need a t-shirt with a wolf on it, I’ll hit up Watson Lake.
