by Shai Thompson, House of Lily Koi –
February’s Style Tip:
This is the month retailers receive their spring inventory. If you want to get a head start on your wardrobe choices, get into the shops early. Connect with sales reps that will call you when brands and colours in your size and style come in. This is truly what I love about boutique shopping: service!
Q: This cold air is drying out my skin even though I moisturize. What do I do? This year, I am hearing more women talk about their chapped lips and dry itchy skin from this cold dry season. Here is the deal: we have just come through the holiday season where we all enjoyed a few alcoholic cocktails and what does alcohol do? It dries you out! No matter how much you may slap on the moisturizer, you need to hydrate from the inside out! Water, water, water! When I’m drinking alcohol I always have a glass or two of water with every drink – it’s the rinse cycle!
Q: I live in two different homes – one in Sidney, and one in the desert. How do I keep my wardrobe organized? You have a couple of options here: buy two complete wardrobes for each climate you live in; or get super organized by only buying foundation items that are multi-seasonal, but have a few add-ons that are climate specific. For example: you may not take cashmere or your down coat to the desert; however, your favourite go-to jeans will transition into all climates. Doing a needs assessment based on activities, climate, function and style will have you rocking your wardrobe wherever you are.
Q: As a first-time online shopper, what should I keep in mind when purchasing products I can’t touch or try on? Being a virgin online shopper can be a bit scary at any age! You don’t know what to expect and you are so used to touching before you buy. I suggest shopping from an online store you’re already familiar with. Things to look for? Always read the return policies, you want free shipping, and make sure it is a reliable site. I know if I shop Holt Renfrew I am in good hands. If I shop “Hoot Renfrew” it may not be reputable. If you don’t have a good experience, try again. Just like shopping in stores, it may or may not live up to your expectations.
Q: What do I need to know about eyelash extensions? I love how glamorous eyelash extensions look. When shopping for a salon that applies them, always ask to have the glue tested on your skin before a full application. If you wear glasses, I suggest getting the lashes shorter or you will be touching them up all day and making sure they’re not all bunched up in one clump. All in all, they are a fun experience! So go rock the lash bar.
Q: I’m new to the Island and I notice most people dress very casually here. What is the local wardrobe style culture? If you’ve moved here from Toronto, Calgary or anyplace east of Vancouver, you may be in for a culture shock. Most corporate dress is business casual, retirees are most commonly seen in fleece and their best Lulu’s, and local fashionistas rock the secondhand shops to repurpose and reuse. Stay true to yourself and your personal style. Being new to the Island, you may have a style influence that encourages your new peers to raise their own style bar. Find boutiques that host brands you love by clicking on “store locator” on the brand websites. Have fun trying yourself on for size and welcome to the Island!
