June Street Style 2009

Anne-Marie Williams

Regardless of how weather typically dictates fashion here in Victoria, it has often made it very easy to spy colour in a sea of black. Which was exactly how we spotted our June fashion find. Taking "casual-professional" in stride, Anne-Marie was a sharply dressed example of using combination basics - "core wardrobing versatility" - and completing it stylishly with a bright splash of bold colour.

When we suggested taking her photo for our up coming article in SNAP Victoria, she very quickly replied she was visiting from Duncan - surprise, surprise - and that she didn't believe she wasn't wearing anything from here (which we later uncovered was quite the contrary).

Tell me about the trench coat you are wearing?
"Actually it is from Zara in Vancouver." (The clean center lines - "no double breasted buttons here" - and less obvious tie waist, keeps Anne-Marie slim. The bonus is the neutral colour, it's very versatile, and not the usual ominous black.)

"My top is from J.Crew." (This white, narrow-fit blouse would even work well on it's own belted.)

Where did you find the marble grey pants? They look like a very light weight wool.
"Yes, they are from here (surprise again), they're from Breeze."
(Extremely versatile, unlined, and a generally perfect "Victoria" pant.)

What about those smart, low heel Mary-Jane's?
"They very comfortable, they're Aerosoles from the Bay, here also! I guess I am wearing a few things I found in Victoria."

Now, what about that hot pumpkin orange? Is that Coach?
"Yes, it's a Coach bag from Coach in Vancouver."
(Perfectly paired with a tied matching scarf, which by the way, is not just a way to add a touch of softness to a cold, edgy purse or portfolio, you should actually use them. This, of course, is for a time when you are out in the convertible - use that big square scarf over your head in a smooth bandana tie and to pull off an Audrey Hepburn moment. Or you can use the tiny neck-tie scarves to fill in the neckline with colour if you wanted the colour carried into the outfit when the purse wasn't being toted around. Scarves are also handy if the wind picked up, to tie around your neck and keep the chill off.)

Anne-Marie demonstrated how great lines on coats and strategic use of bold colour are simple considerations that show off the individual wearing them. Together, all these pieces create the perfect opportunity to layer (and un-layer if the sun pops out). She did a wonderful job of finishing off her look with classic drop pearl earrings. She is my "Convertible Ensemble" - a core wardrobe classic.... one which will hopefully carry us into a warm summer with less concern for coats! I am aiming to shoot Street Style with Bullock and Kirstein at the spur of the moment should the skies clear. So move those skirts to the front of the closet, I know I have!


- As Published in SNAP Victoria.
Photography by www.bullockandkirstein.com