Mid-summer style slump? These 3 Canadian brands have smart pieces you'll wear now and into the next season
Ideal items to take you through the summer stretch and onward to autumn
We're barely at the halfway mark and if you're anything like me, there's a good chance you've already powered through your summer wardrobe, 20 times over. Pieces that were once your favourites, fresh and full of potential, now look like they've lived a thousand lives.
If you're loathe to shop for new pieces merely to get you through the stretch we have some options that can do you one better. These feather-light fabrics and uncomplicated cuts will help you sail through the rest of the season — but they will also follow you into fall since they are perfect for layering. What's more, these quality Canadian pieces are designed for women by women.
Thief and Bandit
The playful prints found across Thief and Bandit's hand-made pieces, which include woodland critters, wild flowers and pops of candy colour, are endearing. But they're also very wearable, especially paired with streamlined silhouettes. The combination of clean cut and breezy fabrics are ideal for summer, and also perfect for pairing with a denim jacket or a slick knit come autumn.
It might be hard, but if you need help narrowing down your options, you could always scroll through the almost 3,000 five-star Etsy reviews to spot fans' favourites.
Thief and Bandit's Boxy Jacket is a statement piece that glides as easily over a cami as it does over a knit dress, when you need to punch up your layering come fall and winter.
'Thistle' Raw Silk Boxy Jacket in Lavender, Rust and Gold on Black, approx. $242, Thief and Bandit
Jennifer Glasgow
When it comes to the design process, Jennifer Glasgow never bases her looks on passing trends. Instead, she opts for classic cuts and also makes sure to incorporate feedback from her customers — some of which has led her to cut tops to always mask bra straps, and designing for a diversity of body types.
Her pieces merge breathable fabric with tailored cuts, creating airy, work-appropriate staples. Not only can these pieces glide with you into the office and out for a summer night, but they are wearable in totally distinct ways too.
Prime example: Arroyo's light-weight, waist-flaunting dress is a saviour for hot days, and if you omit the belt, you can wear it as a topper in the fall, either open as a vest or buttoned half way down.
Arroyo Dress, $215, Jennifer Glasgow
Maguire Boutique
When the Maguire sisters opened their namesake business, their mission was to create quality footwear and handbags at a fair price. Known for their superb quality and chic designs, Maguire Boutique keeps their prices down by working directly with the few factories they've handpicked, and ordering in small batches before selling directly to customers.
Their Verona Loafer, a softer take on the uniform classic, has become a best-seller. In the summer, they're adorable sans socks with just about anything. In the fall, they're the quintessential addition to any outfit that calls for opaque tights (we get giddy just thinking about it).
Verona Tuxedo Loafer, $190, Maguire Boutique
Joanna Tymkiw is a food and lifestyle journalist, television producer and writer. Among her work, she has produced for CBC, authored her own national column and has appeared on numerous television programs.