I will not wear hats that resemble animal faces
The first snowfall can make us feel nostalgic for childhood — a simple time with no responsibility and no financial crisis. But, DO NOT embrace it with a raccoon/rabbit/mouse/frog/bear shaped knitted hat. Simple woolen cloches, oversized chunky-wool toques and fur-trimmed chapeaus will keep your head warm and stylish without mockery. Canadian milliners Wildhagen offer cloches in their signature style. Made from wool and hand sewn their work is unique for a look all your own. For fur, try something recycled by Rachel F. a Montreal-based company dedicated to reusing fur and other textile materials.

I will invest in a pair of proper winter dress boots
There is no denying the warmth of Sorels or the comfort of Uggs in the winter months. And although no one would fault you for wanting to keep your tootsies toasty, there is no excuse for pairing boots larger than some apartments, with tailored officewear. La Canadienne offers practical, warm and attractive options that pull your look together any day of the week.

I will not wear clothing that is too small, or too big, for me
Our bodies are too often seen as the enemy. And rather than try to reason with it in the form of exercise or good food, we try to suffocate it or drown it with ill-fitting clothes. Garments that are too tight or too loose either highlight our perceived flaws or add reams of fabric that make it unclear where the dress/shirt/skirt ends, and our natural shape begins.

I will spend as much as I can afford on a pair of jeans
It may seem ridiculous to spend $100+ on denim but spending money on this wardrobe staple will take you from frumpy to fabulous with little effort. Canadian denim company Fidelity makes all styles for all shapes in a range of prices. To keep them always looking their best wash them as little as possible as the fibres are delicate and can lose their shape with warm washes or turns in the dryer. Always wash on cold, never put them in the dryer and if you can, dry clean them to prolong their life.

I will not wear flip-flops anywhere that I wouldn’t wear my bathing suit
Although flip-flops may be the most comfortable option when it’s 32C outside and even breathing feels oppressive, plastic shoes do not scream style. Once associated with hippies and dentists, Birkenstocks have branched out and now provide comfort as well as chic for a more casual look. And for something more work appropriate, straps and a small heel can go a long way to keeping you looking and feeling cool.

I will own a selection of well fitting undergarments
Spanx are a friend to all women as are other “shapers” that have gained popularity and are now widely available. Depending on the “hold”, from light to firm, you can get a smooth line, or even go down a dress-size. Look for ones that breathe as much as possible for added comfort and make sure they cinch at odd places (thighs or torso) to avoid lines.