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.

How to Stay Warm and Stylish

By Ava Green

Colder temperatures are around the corner, and some of us are not looking forward to it! Whether you love winter or not, Sassyfras Boutique inside Eising Greenhouse and Garden Centre has the cozy, stylish clothes you need to look your best and stay warm all season long. 

Begin with Layers

Fall, winter, and spring can all bring unpredictable weather to our corner of southern Ontario, so layering is key. Winter is an especially good time to follow the 3-layer rule:

• A base layer keeps you dry
• A mid-layer adds warmth
• An outer layer protects from the elements

Build Your Cold-Weather Capsule Wardrobe

Creating a winter capsule wardrobe makes dressing warm and stylish easy and stress-free. Here are a few ideas to get started:

Base Layer: 

Start with a basic tee, a long-sleeve mock neck, or a long-sleeve crew neck top. Choose natural fabrics that wick moisture and keep you dry. 

Tights or leggings make a great foundation under dresses or pants for added warmth. 

Mid Layer:

For warmth, add a sweatshirt, a crewneck sweater, a v-neck sweater, or a turtleneck. 

If you’re stopping at two layers, choose a chunky knit or oversized sweater for a cozy statement look.

On top of your tights or leggings, try a faux-suede skirt, faux-leather pants, wide-leg trousers, jeans, or a dress, maybe even a comfy sweater dress. 

Outer Layer:

Top it all off with an eye-catching outer layer! Try a bomber jacket, blazer, faux-fur jacket, puffer vest or jacket, or a trendy coatigan for warmth and style.

Accessorize to Elevate Your Look

What makes an outfit really stand out? The accessories! At Sassyfras, you’ll find everything you need to complete your winter look.

From belts (perfect for cinching a blazer or dress) to trendy handbags, classic tote bags, sunglasses, and a wide selection of everyday jewellery, including locally made, one-of-a-kind pieces. You’ll find the perfect finishing touches that reflect your personal style.

Mix, Match and Stay Cozy

Once you’ve built your base, mid, and outer layers, the fun begins! Mix and match your pieces to create new combinations that make winter dressing simple, cozy, and chic. 

With just a few well-chosen items from Sassyfras, you’ll be ready to step out in style, no matter how cold it gets! ❄️

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!