Mission Possible #5 – Focus on Style

'Look for the woman in the dress, without the woman, there is no dress.'

Coco Chanel.

Let these brilliant words be your holiday style mantra!


I pride myself in having a rather practical approach to life in general and to my wardrobe in particular. It’s no different when it comes to dressing at this time of year. As it happens 'less' truly is 'more' when it comes to holiday looks. (Just to be clear: This motto does not apply to vintage purse collecting.) Reinventing your basics can work wonders and save you a ton of dough which you can later invest in more versatile clothing that will carry you through a long and frosty winter.

Ladies, a classic pair of pants or a skirt jazzed up an opulent top or blouse and just the right accessories (jewellery, handbag or clutch, shoes) will make you stand out from the crowd - guaranteed.



From classic chic...

Gentlemen, the simple elegance of a crisp jacket, soft cardigan, or stylish scarf will turn heads, I promise you.

That said, sometimes a gal just needs a new evening or cocktail dress, right? Resist the urge to go ‘over the top’ just because it’s such a rare treat – my advice, stick with the understated elegance of a classic. You’ll wear it again, you can reinvent it endlessly and it’s a sound investment you won’t regret in January.

to casual smart!

If you want to go the extra yard, have it tailored: Let’s face it, how many dresses fit the average woman (regardless of your shape or size) right off the rack. Virtually impossible. Have it tweaked to suit your figure.

Gentlemen, if you’re in need of something a little more elegant that your usual day-to-day suit, go for a classic, crisp, good quality suit in your very best colour and cut.

The Sartorialist - Flipped Collar

My favorite look for men and women is one that comes across as effortlessly put together with an underpinning of elegance and originality. Being dolled up from head to toe in the latest trends and sporting the season’s ‘hot’ colours are a recipe for disaster – avoid it like the plague!


A perfect example of classic beauty and style - The Sartorialist

All you need to know in a nutshell:
-Wear colours that suit your complexion, eye and hair colour (pay extra attention to anything that surrounds your face and that may not work with your skin tone or hair colour)

-Pay attention to your body shape and wear appropriately cut clothing, shoes, and accessories – size matters here!

-Inject colour and style by cleverly using accessories. Be sure that all accessories compliment your body shape and that the colours are just right for you.

-If in need of a new addition to your wardrobe, always buy clothes that are interchangeable with your existing wardrobe so you can vary their use. My rule of thumb: Invest in neutral basics (trousers, skirts & 'tailleurs') and focus on quality fabrics.

For some visual clues here’s a link to Cassis featuring an enticing range of holiday ideas and looks. Super-stylist, Lynn Spence's comments are an added bonus.

I’m always looking for inspiration when I’m planning an outfit. So when you’re out shopping keep in mind the stylish people whom you admire and let their spirit guide you in your purchases. Seek advice from qualified merchants and of course, an impartial personal shopper can work wonders, too!

Ideas for the 'Mature and Fabulous'

It seems that the seniors are downsizing and moving to town in record numbers. While they may be de-cluttering it doesn’t mean they don’t need anything. Who doesn’t need a night on the town? Dinner and theatre tickets are a great way bring some fun to the long winter nights ahead.

If electronics is their thing, arrange to upgrade their electronics with a one-on-one shopping session courtesy of a geek squad member from any of the big electronic stores. If you’re technically savvy and have the time, you can include your services in the gift and ensure they’re all plugged in and ready to go.

Managing family photos can seem like a fulltime job. Grandparents can be overwhelmed and under resourced when it comes to electronic management of family photos. Consider an electronic frame into which you’ve uploaded family files. Bragging rights are just a click away.

Photo books are also great coffee table coveted treasures. I use Shutterfly. Easy programs, great promotions & quality books! You will need to get cracking right now if you want to make have this treasured keepsake ready for the 25th. But it would be worth it!

Now when I become a trendy senior, I’ll ask Santa for a hand-crafted Italian umbrella from Rain Drops. It will look très chic at the entrance to my loft.



Exclusive umbrellas from Raindrops

 *All images from Getty Images.

Gifts Ideas for Her and Him

For Her

Gentlemen, forget slippers, pyjamas, ski paraphernalia and all that other nonsense you think she needs. Simply listen, reflect upon the kind of person she is and brush up on 'What Women Really Want' .  You should be good to go.  Surprise her with the perfect gift!

If you're still at a loss, when it comes to most women I have two words for you: Pampering. Jewellery. That’s it.  If neither of these words carries any resonance, you need professional help. That’s me. A day of pampering is not necessarily found by booking a day at the spa. Oh no. It starts with getting to the spa, how she’s greeted at the spa, what she drinks, eats, and the sequencing of treatments. If you really want to tell her you love her, allow me to recommend services, book them for her and you’ll reap the rewards for the rest of the year.

As for jewellery, jewellery is as particular to the individual as are her shoes, hairstyle or husband. If you’re not a natural here, call me. A piece of jewellery communicates volumes about your relationship – consider the engagement ring and its impact on our culture – that’s what you’re after whether you’ve been together for two years, 15 or 35. You’re after fit and impact. You may need advice.

Here’s a tip, Birks in the First Canadian Place, carries an amazing selection of quality pieces and tempting offers. Don’t waste another second!  Also for on going deals visit The Toronto PATH official website.

For Him

Ladies, give him the adventure of a lifetime while you stay home by the fire with a bottle of Shiraz. Let your fingers do the walking and book online an extended weekend away from responsibilities and chores - let your man ice fish, winter camp, or snowshoe his way to bliss.

If he’s something of a renaissance man and enjoys kitchen duty, do yourselves both a favour and give him that 'Le creuset' he’s been longing for, or indulge him with a couple of bottles of something special from Vintages.

When it comes to haberdashery, a cardigan in his best colour is a must have this year. If you think it lacks sex appeal, check out this fine example courtesy of Scott Schuman and his blog The Sartorialist

By Scott Shuman - The Sartorialist

If he’s a man of letters, opt for the finest writing accoutrements at Sleuth and Statesman in the First Canadian Place . You may receive a beautifully written thank you note.

Ideas for the totally cool Pre-Teen & Teen

Did you know the new trend is to sport 'green' jewelery? Yes, there is such a thing as recycled sterling silver and your environmentally conscious teen is just the right recipient for this sustainable keepsake.  Love these wonderful and simple creations! Made in Brisbane, Australia.

Did you know you can design your very own pair of Chuck Taylor All Star running shoes? I kid you not. 'One Converse' makes it possible. Sure wish I could have done that to my pair of Converse back in the day!
Create your own Converse shoe

iPod, iPhone & iPad are also dream gifts for many (most?) pre-teens and teens. If they’re already primed with electronics consider some of the very cool goodies that keep them ahead of trend - the iPlunge phone stand is one such example - reasonably priced and beyond cool!