So when UNIQLO reached out to share their new collection of sweaters I jumped at the opportunity to try them on and style them for the season. Although this post is sponsored by UNIQLO all opinions are 100% my own.

What I look for in my knitwear is very specific and I always gravitate to whites and cream knits, (I have around 10 white[ish] sweaters that I love). It’s likely because they are so easy to style with any print, pattern and colour. I’m obsessed with the texture and cut of this 3D Lambswool sweater, that has the perfect V-neck in the front and a mini one in the back and cocoons out in shape allowing it to be ideal for layering.

For the past few years, I’ve lived in turtle necks. Tight and tucked-in or oversized and chunky; turtle necks are one of the ideal cuts for sweaters. And it was love at first sight when I tried on this fine Merino wool turtle neck. The fabric is super soft, fine and fitted but not too tight.

After wearing it twice, I downloaded the new UNIQLO CA App, picked it up in two more colours and had them shipped directly to my door. I’ve worn it tucked into jeans and track pants, under overalls and dresses and layered with a chunky cardigan for a sweater on sweater look. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen me in them via my stories and feed for the last month or so.

With the holiday season officially starting, a great way to take knitwear into a more formal setting is with a sweater dress. Because knitwear could add a little bulk, I like to keep things more fitted when it comes to dresses allowing the material to hug your curves. This Extra Fine Merino Wool dress is a great fit and flare cut, making it super flattering. I added simple statement earrings to help highlight the mock turtle neck, adding a touch of glam to the look.

Having cozy and effortless basics to turn to makes getting dressed in the dark easier and the luxurious knits at UNIQLO are going to continue to be the go-to piece for the upcoming winter season.

Sweater, Turtle neck and dress: UNIQLO Canada, Glasses: Clearly.ca
Jacket & Pants: Banana Republic, Boots: Zara, Jeans: Target, Shawl (actually a blanket): Vintage, Shoes: Nicholas Kirkwood for Erdem

Even though it’s still considered fall, Toronto is officially freezing and has a thick layer of snow covering basically everything. This outfit was shot a few weeks ago (at 31 weeks pregnant), when the temperatures were a bit more mild and ideal for light layers, rather than down parkas.

I love this layered look as an easy office to holiday party transitional outfit. Adding this adorable oversized asymmetrical sweater (now on sale) over one of my favourite body-con dresses, helped dress down the leopard, making it more appropriate for the office. This chunky knit is the perfect for the chilly season ahead and can be easily paired with jeans, leggings and dressed it up.

With this growing giant bump, I kept the dress unzipped and folded one of the sleeves down, tucking it into my bra (hidden by the sweater) which allowed for the off-the-shoulder slouchy look to be achieved.

This season, matching sweater sets (tops and bottoms) are going to be huge. That look is a lot for many people so  to tone down the trend look for some great knit separates that you’ll be able to pair together while shopping the new fall collections.
Photography by Trevor Negin
Sweater: Urban Outfitters, skirt: Zara, heels: 10 Crosby Derek Lam from Hudson’s Bay

I sometimes find winters in Canada really hard to get through. The short days, darkness, grey skies, salt stains, insane driving, and of course the cold, are just a few of the reasons why people struggle around this time of year. Mental health is so important to be discuss, and to know that you are never alone. There are so many Canadians who suffer from SAD (Seasonal affective disorder) which is a form of depression that occurs at a certain time of the year, usually in the winter.  Getting outside, doing things that make you happy, and even just wearing bright colours and bold prints can not only make you feel better, but also those around you. So wishing everyone a bright and wonderful last few days of January!

Photography by Trevor Negin

Jacket: Lorne’s Coats, Sweater: Joe Fresh (mens), Pants: Topshop, Wedges: Jeffrey Campbell, Headband: American Eagle Necklace: Fenton Fallon

Fashion Magazine asked the Style Panel to talk about the winter trend of sweaters. This season they are amazing. Here’s what I said.