By Ava Green

There’s a truth we all learn over time: good quality makes a big difference. Not buying more, buying smarter.

But how do you hold on to great pieces and make them look fresh and current? Start by getting yourself the perfect pair of jeans for the season. Great jeans work wonders to update your look. The right cut, the right wash, the right fit. It’s the closest thing to a style superpower you can own.  

To show you what we mean, we picked a pair of white Lois jeans from Sassyfras, and created four completely different looks.

Crisp Black and White

There is something timeless about a black-and-white outfit. Timeless made current with a new jean style. The printed scarf ties it all together and adds just enough personality to keep it from feeling too minimal.

Tie the scarf loosely around your neck, or loop it through the handle of your bag to pull the colours together. White-on-white (sweater and jeans) works beautifully, and varying the textures (knit vs. denim) keeps it interesting.

Sun-Kissed Orange

Orange and white is one of summer’s most joyful combinations. This outfit shows that beautifully. Playful, casual, and sunny. Tying a sweater around your waist or resting on your shoulders adds a relaxed, effortless layer that’s handy when you need a little extra warmth. 

Classic Blue and White

This is the most polished of the four looks. A white blouse paired with a fine-striped blue jacket feels relaxed and also put together. This is the kind of outfit that works equally well for a casual lunch or an afternoon of errands. The multi-coloured scarf, which introduces a bit of pink and orange, pulls all the elements together beautifully and adds a little bit of playfulness.  A blue bag grounds the colour palette.

The Colourful One

This look is so much fun. A multi-coloured sweater or blouse in bright, happy shades paired with white jeans is bold without trying too hard. White keeps it cohesive while the top gets to be the star. The woven macrame handbag adds texture and an artisan quality that feels intentional and individual. This outfit says: I’m having fun. The baseball cap is the punctuation mark! Vibrant, creative and completely at ease.

The Key to Making it Easy

Styled with intention and a little creativity, a single great piece, like our Lois jeans, can carry you through every mood and occasion. Wearing what brings you joy is always the right answer, and we have an inspiring selection at Sassyfras to make choosing easy. Stop by the boutique and see for yourself! 

Sassyfras Boutique is located inside Eising Greenhouses and Garden Centre.

By: Ava Green

More than just a name, the brands we love and trust at Sassyfras not only have a great reputation but also offer excellent quality, fit, and, importantly, style. We trust their track record and can enthusiastically recommend these brands to you!

Tribal

Founded more than 50 years ago in Montreal, their mission still remains the same - to make women look and feel their best, no matter what they’re doing. They know first-hand what that is because women design Tribal clothing for women. Consistent fit and premium fabrics are hallmarks of their quality garments.

Habitat

Comfort, fit and detail are the priorities for clothing from the Habitat brand. Founder and designer Suzanne Connelly is committed to creating clothing that fits well and suits customers’ tastes. This is not fast fashion that you’ll find everywhere, Habitat produces limited quantities for specialty boutiques - like Sassyfras!

b.Young 🍁

Great quality designs with value for your money have been the focus of  b.Young since their inception in 1991 in Denmark. Creating timeless pieces using improved processes with an eye on the environmental impact of textile production, their goal is to produce pieces that will last. This is a brand that creates beautiful styles with integrity.

Culture Clothing

Daring to be different, and urging you to be you, Culture Clothing is a brand that stands out. Whether you’re looking for a piece that’s comfy and classic or a colourful statement piece, this is a brand worth checking out!

Soya Concept

Fashionable, colourful, and feminine for everything from shirts to skirts that are made for women. With a focus on sustainability, high-quality fabrics, affordable prices, and the latest trends, Soya Concept is a brand that aims to earn your loyalty.

Point Zero🍁

One of Canada’s leading clothing brands for men and women since 1979, Point Zero has lots to offer. Based in the heart of Montreal’s fashion district, this Canadian company is focused on great design, superior quality, and trendy fashions all at an attractive price. Additionally, they focus on their ecological footprint in terms of materials and the manufacturing process. An admirable brand that’s homegrown.

Dévia 🍁

Based in Montreal, Devia clothing is proudly designed and made in Canada. With a passion for fashion, they create inspiring and eclectic designs at affordable prices.

Terrera 🍁

Earth-friendly fibres, conscious production, and a commitment to giving back make Terrera an outstanding, sustainable, Canadian company. We think you’ll fall in love with their comfortable, easy-to-wear bamboo basics like bralettes, undies and leggings all created to fit and flatter women.

Moffi

Unique, high-quality clothing with sophisticated details and elegant design. Moffi is designed to appeal to every woman.

What’s In Store For You?

Step into Sassyfras at Eising Garden Centre and explore our carefully curated collection of trusted clothing brands. We’re here to provide great personal service and high-quality pieces from brands you’ll be proud to wear!

A lot of attention has been focused on buying local and shopping for Canadian-made products recently. At Sassyfras Boutique inside Eising’s Garden Centre we’ve always been proud to offer high quality Canadian fashion brands and locally made products. In a world of fast fashion, having choices that benefit our community and the environment is important to us.

There are many reasons to choose Canadian, and your choices do matter:

• Contributes towards building a thriving local fashion industry
• Keeps our economy healthy by keeping our money in the country
• Workers within Canada receive fair wages and work in safe conditions
• Garments that are designed to last, using superior materials and workmanship

Canadiana in Store

Here’s a sneak preview of a few Canadian manufacturers you’ll find in Sassyfras!

Dévia

This women’s clothing collection is made in Montreal, Québec and is eclectic and inspiring. Tops, t-shirts, blouses, cardigans, pants, and shorts are all included in their wide range of fashions.

Terrera

Ethically made with natural, earth-friendly fabrics like bamboo and organic cotton, Terrera clothing is soft, comfortable and long-lasting. Their undergarments, leggings and tops will quickly become your favourites.

La Volta Accessories 

La Volta’s handbags are fashionable and designed in Canada. Their high quality bags have plenty of personality and each unique style is named after a woman. 

Merx Jewelry

With a new collection each season, Merx has become known for staying ahead of trends, but they also manufacture classic and timeless designs. Using pure materials that are lead-free and nickel-free, their jewelry is also attractive to anyone with sensitive skin.

Proud To Be Local - Artisans and Products

Crystal McMaster

Local jewelry designer, Crystal McMaster has been creating beautiful pieces with love and care since 2005.

Jennie’s Jewelry

Local and sustainable, Jennie’s Jewelry transforms silverware into unique earrings, necklaces and bracelets. She also makes custom pieces as well!

Springknoll Farms

Made by a farming family in Haldimand County, their luxurious whipped tallow lotion is a must try.

Please drop by soon to see all the fashions and products made by talented fellow Canadians. Thank you for supporting our local business, and for choosing Canadian!

There is something about a beautiful cozy sweater that makes cooler weather way more bearable! Layering a new sweater with clothing staples already in the closet can also breathe new life into your wardrobe, and elevate it for the changing season. It can make everything you’re wearing feel fresh again!

Year Round Sweaters

Sweaters are a great way to stay warm and fashionable all year round, especially when you invest in one made from the right stuff. At Sassyfras in Eising Garden Centre, we have Men’s and Women’s sweaters in natural fabrics like cotton, and bamboo which are great choices for several reasons:

• Natural fibres allow your skin to breathe and are less likely to cause overheating. If you’re part of the Hot Stuff club, aka menopausal, that kind of comfort is a definite plus!
• They can be warm without being too bulky.
• These materials tend to be more durable and long-lasting. They are biodegradable and more sustainable than synthetic alternatives.

Sweater Pairings

From a chunky knit to a lightweight turtleneck, there’s a sweater to go with every style and shape.

With flowy pants, a more fitted sweater that’s tucked in or cropped can balance out the silhouette of wide-leg trousers or palazzo pants.

Form-fitting slacks like leggings look great with chunky, or slightly oversized longer sweaters, tunics or cardigans.

For men, choose a casual sweater to wear with jeans or cotton pants. If you’re dressing up, try a fine-knit sweater with dress pants for a more formal outfit.

Overall, sweaters are a great way to add interest with some pattern or texture!

Layering Made Easy

If there’s a perfect outfit for days that start out cold and get warmer, or vice versa, it’s one that’s layered. While it’s easy to grab a coat and head out the door, taking a few minutes to consider the layers you’re using can make all the difference!

1. Start with a simple cotton or viscose top, a long-sleeved t-shirt, or a collared shirt. This provides some insulation and is great for moisture-wicking.
2. Add a beautiful sweater. A chunky knit, a cardigan, or a pullover. If it’s made from natural fibres, this will provide excellent warmth while still being breathable!
3. On cooler days, add a stylish outer layer like a puffy vest, a coat or a jacket. This layer can provide more warmth or water protection plus add an extra element to your outfit.

Accessories Bring It All Together

While you’re in Sassyfras doing your sweater shopping, it’s the perfect time to look for an accessory to bring your look together and make a statement! Here are some ideas to make the most of your outfit:

• For added warmth or a pop of colour or pattern, scarves make excellent accessories for sweaters.
• A stylish bag that matches the overall look and colours can bring together the theme of your sweater outfit.
• Adding a necklace can make a bold statement or instantly dress up a plain sweater.
• Earrings can add a touch of glamour, colour or fun to your sweater ensemble.
• Consider the often-forgotten hat! They can make your outfit more chic, and also keep you warm.
• Mittens or gloves can be both cozy and stylish.
• Colour-coordinated, patterned or contrasting tights are the perfect match with a sweater dress.
• Add a belt to a tunic, sweater dress or cardigan to change the silhouette or shape of your outfit.

Most importantly, experiment and try new things, have fun and find a look that is right for you!

Once summer hits and the sun is shining high, it's time to ditch the extra layers and keep our outfits simple, breezy and light—but of course, with some bright pops of colour and fun, summery prints! Now, a lot of us have been really stretching the limits of our pyjamas (er, I mean, "loungewear") lately, and while it can be nice to keep things cozy and casual, sometimes dressing up a bit can give you that extra boost to conquer the day. 

For our latest collection at Sassyfras, we wanted to curate pieces that combine the best of both worlds: comfy, easy pieces you can slip on without any fuss, but in bright colours and styles that bring a sense of energy and vibrance to your wardrobe. Here are some of our standout pieces for summer 2020!

Cotton Tank Dresses 

This piece is our secret wardrobe weapon for summer 2020! You'll never want to take it off. We love the simplicity of a cotton tank dress—these ones have subtle detailing to give them some flair, yet are still just as comfortable as a pair of sweats. On top of that, they're super versatile! Throw one on for a backyard barbecue, running errands in town, or overtop of a bathing suit for a beach day. 

Our nautical striped tank dress by tribalfemme, in a universally flattering shade of navy, has asymmetric button detailing and a not-too-tight, not-too-loose fit that flatters every figure. It lightly hugs your curves without looking too snug, for a cute and carefree look that won't feel restrictive!  

Leafy Motifs

Spring is all about the floral prints, and now that summer is approaching, we're switching it up with some fun, leafy motifs. Not everyone loves florals, so if they feel a bit too frou-frou for you, you'll love the style of palm leaf prints. They have a bit more attitude than florals, and they give off some cool tropical vibes.

Our coral palm leaf dress is perfect for hot summer nights on the patio. The material is light, and the skirt is super stretchy with some asymmetric side ruching—a super flattering feature that magically hides the tummy while still cinching the waist. Layer on some turquoise and gold jewelry for maximum impact!

Fashion For The 50+ Crowd

Navigating the summer clothing department can sometimes be tricky when you're over 50. We took extra time to pull some looks you'll love this season: modern, art-inspired pieces that are light enough for summer, so you can feel confident and comfortable without compromising your sense of style. 

For gals who are a bit wary of showing off their upper arms, we picked up some super lightweight, breathable blouses, like this fun pink tunic with wooden button details. If you prefer sleeveless, we have some gorgeous tops in colorful prints that perfectly complement a pair of solid-coloured shorts or capris. You can add your favourite accessories and pair with bright or neutral bottoms to dress the look up or down.

Bermuda shorts are always a must-have for the summer. Having a few go-to pairs in solid neutral colours like navy, black, camel and white will make it so much easier to pull outfits together because they can be paired easily with so many different printed tops. You can even dress them up to make them look semi-formal! We love the look of our cowl neck, sleeveless printed blouse over top of the slim-cut black shorts. The striking abstract art motif has kind of a 1960’s mod vibe, so if you pair it up with some silver hoops and a bit of black winged eyeliner, the look is very Twiggy-esque! 

If you're eager to get some new summer pieces to fill out your wardrobe, give us a call at the boutique! We're now open from 10–5 daily, but we’re also happy to offer private shopping appointments to ensure you the most comfortable shopping experience. We also have curbside pickup available, so if you'd like to place an order over the phone, we'd be happy to help.

Making your own compost is a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint—plus, it saves you a trip to the store! With summer coming up, our vegetable plants and fast-growing annuals will be hungry for soil nutrients, and having the perfect organic fertilizer on hand makes it that much easier to have a healthy, thriving garden. Plus, it can cut your total household waste in half, so it’s twice as good for the environment! Less trash in our landfills means less methane gas gets released, which Mother Nature will surely appreciate. 

Want to start making your own compost at home using kitchen scraps that would otherwise end in the garbage? Once you get the hang of it, it’s really pretty simple, and the end product will be so worth it. Here are the basics of making compost, so your garden will be well-fed this year.

What Goes In A Compost Bin?

One of the things that people find the most confusing when beginning to compost is figuring out what goes in the bin, and what stays out. There are all sorts of different kitchen scraps that we can generate in a day, but some of them can contaminate the compost bin and introduce harmful bacteria instead of the good kind. Having a little cheat sheet posted on the fridge will make it easier for you to navigate the do’s and don’ts of composting, so we compiled this list for you to use as a reference. 

Things You Can Always Compost

- Fruit and vegetable scraps
- Eggshells
- Dye-free cardboard
- Coffee grounds
- Grass clippings
- Leaves and stems (unless they show signs of disease)
- Straw
- Pine needles
- Untreated paper
- Cotton and wool
- Sawdust and untreated woodchips

Things You Can Compost In Smaller Amounts

- Citrus fruit peels
- Herbivore manure (ex: rabbits, birds, horses)
- Printed cardboard
- Teabags
- Black and white newspaper
- Hair and pet fur

Things That Shouldn’t Go In the Compost

- Dairy
- Meat
- Bones
- Metal
- Chemically-treated wood
- Diseased plants
- Plastic
- Weeds
- Oils and fats
- Diapers
- Carnivore animal droppings (no dog or cat waste!)

If there’s anything you want to toss in the bin but aren’t entirely sure about, go online and do a quick Google search as to whether or not the item is compostable.

The Different Types Of Compost Bins

There are three different types of compost bins you can use at home: aerobic, anaerobic, and vermicomposting bins. Each one breaks down waste a little differently, and there are a few pros and cons, so we’ve listed out the basics of each type so that you can choose accordingly.

Aerobic Compost Bins: These bins have a crank that helps to turn the inner contents, helping to aerate the waste so it breaks down faster. While they’re a little more expensive, they’re neater and more compact than other composters, so you can place them pretty much anywhere in the yard.   

Anaerobic Compost Bins: A cheaper, more basic alternative to the aerobic bin, the anaerobic bin is pretty much just a lidded bin with no turn crank. You simply toss your scraps in and let it break down over time. It’s a slower, and somewhat stinkier process, but they’re pretty cost-effective, and you can even find online tutorials on how to build your own using materials you may already have at home. It’s a good idea to add an even ratio of dry leaves (save that fall leaf litter!) and household waste to keep odours to a minimum. Use a stick or shovel to mix up the decomposing matter every month or so, to speed up decomposition and prevent methane from building up in the container.

Vermicomposting Bins: Now, this one might seem a little weird if you’re squeamish around bugs, but hear us out: vermicomposting is a super effective way to turn trash into treasure. Vermicomposting bins are full of tiny worms that quickly break down the scraps and release them into a lower compartment in the bin, so you can retrieve your compost without having to touch the worms. The resulting compost is super nutrient-rich and easy to spread through the soil.

 

Composting is great for your garden, great for the environment, and great for your wallet too. Remember, if you need any supplies to help you get started, feel free to check out our brand new online store, and we can arrange curbside pickup for your order!