My dream coats

Every Winter I always dream about coats. It's that time of the year when I have to pack away my lightweight trenches and bust out the wool. Over the years I've collected a few coats; I usually get a new one every year. Last year it was a white wool long coat with buttons down to the navel. I liked how it floated to my side whenever I walked in the wind. This year I bought a fur coat on a whim but there are many other coats that beg to be bought and worn this winter.

I had a conversation with my co-workers today about the value of getting a quality coat. Sure they may be expensive, but in the long run it's better to have one quality coat then a dozen shitty ones, right?

Enter Smythe, a Canadian label that specializes in beautiful coats and jackets. This past summer I interviewed the co-founders and designers of the label when I was lusting after their stunning blazers. Now I'm crazy about their coats.

Here are my favourites:

Boyfriend Blazer
Ok it's not a coat but it would look great in the office or with a sparkly dress, non?

Equestrian Jacket
The patchwork elbows are what make the jacket. I can picture myself hunting in England in this jacket. If I were into hunting.

Equestrian Herringbone Jacket
Again; the patches.

Leather Bomber Jacket
I have just started obsessing over leather jackets. This one is so classic but sexy and a bit rock n rock.

Peacoat in blue
I really like the cut of this jacket, especially at the neck. But really it's that gorgeous tiffany blue that makes it stand out. And I love those big buttons. Just add a dark scarf and you're good to brave the winter.

Peacoat in jade
How many people do you see wearing a coat in jade? Or any clothes in jade for that matter? Such a beautiful colour.

Pinafore Coat
Everyone needs a black, long wool coat in Canada. This one is perfect because it's warm, stylish and comes with a detachable collar.

Waist Coat in teal
Another beautiful colour. I love the cinched waist and the little collar.

Vintage finds

I am a newcomer to vintage so I've been researching a lot of local stores as well as online consignment shops. I came across Olive's Very Vintage, a clothing boutique in Brooklyn, which sells vintage designer clothing and accessories, as well as lesser-known goodies.
Here are some of my favorite selections:

Ralph Lauren Nautical Blazer, 1980s

I love how this nautical blazers are making a comeback. I bought a similar blazer with a crest and gold-plated buttons on the sleeves at Bebe and I always get asked whether it is vintage. One guy even asked me if I went to an all-girls school (I lied and said yes!) I love how this blazer is over-sized but is fitted to your shape.

Metallic Egg-Shaped Evening Bag, 1970s


It reminds me of a Fabergé Egg; so gorgeous but quirky. I would love to get my hands on this unique piece. And it can also be used as a clutch!

Grey Silk Mandarin Dress, 1950s


This piece is very classic and elegant but I also find it extremely sexy in a restrained kind of way. I love the idea "less is more" and this dress exemplifies that statement.

Norman Norell Floral Lace Dress, 1960s


When I saw this dress I immediately thought of the Prada F/W 08 collection which really showed us how we should be wearing lace. This dress still looks young and modern and I love how the bow completes the outfit.