Going back to my roots: Preloved Toronto now at Sporting Life Ottawa

A few weeks ago I was approached by Preloved Toronto, a popular clothing store and staple in Canadian fashion known to reclaim vintage fabrics. For most, they are known as an institution for sustainable fashion who are responsible for breathing new life into over a million pieces of clothing since 1995. This Toronto girl could not say no to this collab for many reasons. One, obviously I am going back to my roots and supporting my old hood. Two, I love vintage and consignment pieces, so this was a no-brainer. Third, Sporting Life Ottawa will now be carrying the Preloved brand, and I could not miss the opportunity to share this news with you guys! Oh, and I guess the fourth reason to be super excited is that their clothes come in size XL- so, you’re welcome!

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Either/Or: A shop that makes you think twice about your purchase

Last weekend, I went over to my friend Malorie’s place to play with some clothes and do a photo shoot in her bedroom. Sounds weird, right? The folks outside must have thought the same thing! I mean the lights, the backdrop… a bit much for suburbia town! But, I bet if you looked into every home, you would find a rock star running her own business out of her guest room… I mean, aren’t we all? I know I am!

Either/Or is Malorie’s new online store, where she sells only Canadian and sustainable fashion designs. As you all know, I am attending the Metamorphosis Eco-Fashion show and wanted to wear something that was on brand with the theme of the show. I approached her and asked if she would dress me for the occasion. Instead, she invited me to play dress up and reassured me that I shouldn’t buy anything, unless I loved it!

Malorie is so completely devoted to sustainable design, that she has carefully planned her business model around running a successful and lucrative business while being mindful of the planet and supporting Canadian designers. That is dedication, and I admire her efforts to support slow fashion. I think we can all use a little more thought when making purchases, and I am 100% guilty of not following her advice! I have no self control, and it’s starting to become a problem!

Less is more… I can’t forget this!

She has carefully curated her first collection, and still learning about how different brands are cut, how they size and fit differently on each woman. We learnt a few things that day, ourselves . For examples, in some brands and materials, I can wear a size small, but in others, size L is a bit snug. Malorie was also appreciative of my feedback and was happy with the way I styled some of the looks. Overall, I was very impressed with the cut and quality of the clothing. It is important to remember that these are premium items, and are considered an investment. The prices are higher than what we are used to because when you factor in  things like proper wages and sustainable fabrics, it absolutely comes with a higher price tag, but with much less guilt.

Without further ado, I share with you some of my faves!

Jennifer Torosian Zip coat

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either-or-ottawa-fashion-blog-eco-fashion-curvy-style-blogger-wool-coat

Top Zara | Jeans Gap | Heels L’Intervalle

Sunja Link Palm leaf dress

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either-or-ottawa-fashion-blog-eco-fashion-curvy-style-blogger-palm-dress

Heels Zara

Duffield Design Maxi infinity dress (as skirt)

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The bolero is actually a top that I wore backwards! It’s not on the site yet, but I am sure it will be soon!

Devlyn Van Loon Sweaterdress

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Booties L’Intervalle

So what do you guys think? What did I end up getting for the show? Either leave your comments below or you’ll have to wait and see!

 

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Going ‘green’ with envy for H&M’s new Conscious line

I fell in love with H&M the moment it came to Toronto, almost 10 years ago now. What a wonderful way to update my wardrobe with good quality items at a fair price. I must admit, I was sad when they dropped their size 16, making size 14 now even more difficult to find. Recently, they opened a few stores in Ottawa and expanded their line with plus size and maternity, which pretty much excuses them for those past mistakes.

The real reason I am writing today is to share some exciting new with you! To celebrate Earth Day (April 22, 2015) a wonderful collaboration has been sparked between Bayshore Shopping Centre and H&M’s new Conscious Exclusive Line. Drop off your unwanted clothing and get H&M swag for going green… not a bad deal! Make sure you visit the ONLY H&M store in Ottawa that is offering their Conscious Exclusive collection and by the famous words of Parks and Rec “Treat Yo Self”! There are some gorgeous dresses and skirts that are absolutely perfect for this year’s wedding season!

H&M Bayshore Ottawa Conscious ClosetThis is me in my new favourite H&M Conscious V-neck top. I love the colour and the fit. The sleeves and the V-neck are particularly flattering for us XLusive gals. This is a size Large, and as you can see, fits loose. I did this photo shoot for my bio and head shot for Ottawa Life Magazine. I am their new beauty insider! Petty cool,eh?

Loads of new things happening, so stick around!

Chantal Sarkisian H&M mode XLusive Ottawa Plus Size Fashion Blog
#HMConsciousCloset Vneck shirt
Chantal Sarkisian H&M mode XLusive Ottawa Plus Size Fashion Blog
#HMConsciousCloset Vneck shirt
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