Toronto trends

Like all large North American and European cities, downtown Toronto showcases the best of current fashion trends – something I've loved observing on my daily commute. The subway in particular is a melting pot of styles: the city workers in the latest office-wear chic; the kooky glasses and vintage statement pieces adorning hipsters; and those who prefer the 'I'm ready for the gym whenever the moment strikes me' look, sporting gym-wear as day-wear. However, the Toronto streets are set apart from other major cities by the fur-lined, down-filled, waterproofed shells that encase these fashionistas. My personal favourites include the typical Canada Goose winter jackets; rubber overshoes to keep your leather brogues snow- and salt-free; and cosy 'tuques' or knitted beanie hats (the word originated in Brittany but is now far removed from its French cheffing heritage).


Before leaving the UK, Robert and I invested in Sorel snow boots, and were chuffed to arrive across the Atlantic and find that they are a firm Canadian favourite too (although that’s not surprising since the brand originated here in 1962). Sorel offers a massive range of winter-friendly styles, from the 'Joan of Arctic' tall women's snow boot, to the men's 'Dude Moc' faux-fur-lined slipper. We opted for mid-height boots: the women's 'Winter Carnival' boot for me and the men's black 'Caribou' boot for Robert. Their rubber outer shell and felt lining make for some very warm, dry and stylish feet, with surprising grip even in the iciest of conditions. And it’s not just us wearing boots: even the dogs downtown take on the snow in little rubber booties!


Shoes aside (said Harriet never), the most important part of the Canadian winter wardrobe is the coat. Disconcertingly referred to simply as a 'jacket', this winter essential is often filled with goose-down or a synthetic alternative, quantified (much like 'tog' is used to assess a duvet) by 'fill power'. My Mountain Warehouse insulated Parka measures in at a solid 600 fill power, whereas Robert's Berghaus scores 700! Suffice to say, when our hoods are up we are ready for any wintery weather! (Well that or a nap...)

The winter ensemble is not complete however without a few essential accessories. Firstly mittens or gloves, fit with touchscreen capabilities for those desperate Google Maps searches after a wrong turn on exiting the subway. A snood or scarf to keep out the wind or transform into a balaclava at a moment's notice. And a bag. My current bag of choice is a faux-leather rucksack by Matt & Nat, a Montreal brand with a strong ethical conscience. With all these things in place, you are now set to take on even Toronto’s coldest commute in style.

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