Written by Sasha


Could Sasha write a column for the essentials for the season? I think it would be great for people like me who update their wardrobe each season with a few pieces.
Thanks, H

There are lots of different trends going on this season but as usual just keep in mind that you don’t have to LOVE everything that I’m about to tell you. Just pick and choose from a couple of them and see what works best on YOU. Okay? Here we go.

WHITE OUT
The first big trend this season is white. Maybe it’s a crisp white shirt or a white cardigan – whatever you choose, start looking to incorporate a couple of white items into your wardrobe. As for me, it’s going to be in the form of a dress. Now, here’s the weird thing - and I really hope I’m not the only one - but wearing white always fuels some serious anxiety for me. For some reason I always think I’ll spontaneously get my period. Anyone? Anyone? Fine, maybe it’s just because I grew up in the maxi pad era, which is a whole other rant. Anyhow, I’m pretty sure this Aritzia dress will help me get over the fear. I love it! But if its not quite your steez then how about this, this, this, this or maybe this?

SKIRTING THE ISSUE
It’s looking like we’re finally moving away from the whore-short hemline. So thank god our eyes will be saved from the likes of Lainey’s free balling commando lifestyle. (Lainey: bitch, you better be ready if you’re producing me at the Junos because I will flash you every chance I get.) Anyway, the best way to incorporate a longer hemline is with a skirt. If you’re a carrot stick eating Kate Bosworth type - YAY for you - you’ll look great in a floor length one. But if you do consume food and actually have curves, then go with something just at the knee or even mid calf. Tuck in a t-shirt or a blouse and ta-da – you’ll look great. Click here, here, here or here for some cute options.

NEAT KNITS
Knits are key this season. And what’s great is they’re pretty much an all year round thing, so if you can, invest in a really good one. I’m a devoted fan of Line Knitwear – season after season they crank out quality sh-t that doesn’t put you in the hole. Click here, here, and oh one more here for the goods. Dace is also out with a kick ass spring collection and these two knits are pretty perfect in my opinion. Also check out this one from Kensie and this one from French Connection. Good, right? (Lainey: full disclosure – FCUK is my clothing sponsor on etalk and I can tell you the sweaters are really cute, really flattering. This one is my current favourite. Have worn it several times, lots of compliments.)

SPRING KICKS
Wedges and strappy sandals are where it’s at this season, so peep out what I wrote last week for the 411. You can also read about the wide leg look there – again, go with a wider leg rather than a bell bottom.

IN THE TRENCHES
I don’t know exactly what it is about trench coats but they look great on everyone. So M, if you’re looking for one jacket this season - pick up a trench. You don’t have to drop a bunch of dough either – check out here, here and oh here. Style tip: I always find that people want to do up every damn button on a trench coat and when they can’t, they think it doesn’t fit. That’s not the case at all. As long as you can button it at the waist and then cinch it in with the tie, you’re good to go. So don’t write off a coat just because you can’t button it all the way up to your neck – got it?

SURPLUS STYLE
Keeping with the whole earth tone vibe, the military trend has been going strong and it’s really not budging anytime soon. So even if it’s a pair of shorts or a rad vest, think about putting it into the mix.

BUSY BODY
As far as prints and patterns - everything from Navajo (you know I love it), to nautical stripes to polka dots – anything goes. I dress pretty simply so I always find printed items a bit tricky; that said, everyone should have a least a couple in their closet. If you lean towards a more bold print check out this Madewell dress and this Zara dress. Another major print this season is floral. And if that gives you a style woody then click here, here, here, here and here for some great options. I think finding a good floral pattern comes down to the color palette, so look out for softer tones rather than harsh blacks and reds. But don’t go so soft that you cross into the land of Laura Ashley.

CANADIAN TUXEDO
Lastly denim shirts, denim skirts, denim shorts, denim dresses - you get the drift, pick up something f-cking denim. (Lainey: ew, do I have to? All my friends, and the most fashion forward ones, are into jean skirts. I feel peer pressured.)

So there you have it H – happy spring shopping.