Winnipeg-made merchandise to please the fashion lover on your list

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 19/12/2015 (3745 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I admit it, the holiday season totally crept up on me this year. Granted, I am done most of my shopping, the tree is up and the wrapping — for the most part — looks like I put some effort in, but I think the warm December we had really threw me off in terms of getting into the spirit.

My past few columns have featured warm winterwear, but we Winter-peggers don’t appear to need it all that badly yet. Not to mention the fact that my overzealousness to feature winter gear has left me with no other option than to combine my Five Fab Gifts for Guys and Gals lists, owing to time constraints.

So without further yammering on my part, here it is: my top local fashion picks for the gift-giving season.

 

1. Oak + Oar Olé denim 

I don’t know how they do it, but local urban outfitter Oak + Oar keeps on cranking out understated, yet stylish winners. This year, they introduced Olé denim, a line of slim-cut jeans made using Japanese dark denim from the Kuroki Denim Mills in Okayama, Japan. I love these jeans — they look great casual or dressed up, for weekend relaxing or a cocktail date night.

 

2. Barbara & Cecile handbags 

When I first laid eyes on a Barbara & Cecile handbag, I thought, “There is no way these are locally designed and made,” but they are. Attention to detail and craftsmanship, these luxury handbags are one item every tote-loving diva will want to add to her wish list.

 

3. The Peg Authentic and YWG204

Over the years we have seen a growing sense of pride in our city, and these two Winnipeg-branded streetwear brands reflect that in such a fun way. The snapbacks, tees, hoodies and crewnecks branded with the words “The Peg” and “204 Winnipeg YWG” are perfect for that expat friend who gets a bit nostalgic every time he comes home.

 

4. Old Hat

These hats were a complete unknown to me up until a couple of months ago and I am certainly glad I was introduced to them at the Lucky Girl Pop-up. They are made from vintage fabrics and recycled materials — a great way to upcycle and another fun local fashion find if you’re hoping to cross “someone unique” off the gift-giving list.

 

5. Ulla + Viggo shoes

 If there is a baby or toddler on your list, these locally designed shoes and booties will make the most fashionably adorable gifts. A couple of weeks ago, Ulla + Viggo hosted an online sale of pint-sized leather ballet flats, sandals, desert boots and moccasins, which were snapped up within a couple hours — that should give you an indication on how adorable these kids’ shoes are.

 

Got a suggestion for a future column or trend worth following? Email Connie Tamoto at connietamotofashion@hotmail.com.