RISE TO FASHION FAME: I worked for LouLou, a magazine based in Montreal, where I was the only editor working out of Toronto. As part of my role, I represented the magazine on national lifestyle and entertainment TV programs, since most of them were taped in Toronto. I had zero media training (I actually shudder to think of my first appearances) – it was the definition of trial by fire but I loved it and it changed the trajectory of my career.

WHAT’S YOUR STYLE SECRET?: I subscribe to an 80 percent/20 percent formula, meaning that I rely heavily on classic essentials like denim and trousers from DarkPark and Cordera and tees and men’s dress shirts from Uniqlo and Cos, and then amp it up with accessories and select statement items like my Tom Ford sunglasses, jewellery from Dean Davidson, Mejuri and Mademoiselle Jules. I also think of my hair as its own accessory. I treat my wardrobe like a collection and I’m very deliberate about what I buy. I think my style is a mix of classic, tomboy and unexpected.

 


THE COMMON THREAD: Less but better, quality over quantity. Pay attention to looks that you admire and see if there’s a thread that connects them. Then take inventory of your own wardrobe and see where it intersects. For example, if you find that you’re often drawn to runway and street-style outfits that are edgy and modern but your wardrobe skews more toward feminine florals, there may be a disconnect between how you think you “should” dress, or how a past version of yourself used to dress, and what your preference actually is. From there, build a wish list and try not to deviate from it – this helps curb impulse shopping. We want fast and now, but a truly stylish wardrobe takes time and intention. 

THE ART OF THE EDIT: I am a ruthless editor when it comes to my closet. I don’t have a defined one-in, one-out rule but I really don’t like clutter and regularly assess whether I still love and wear items. Sometimes I’m too ruthless and there are a couple of things that I’ve regretted selling, like a suede bomber jacket by Stella McCartney but, for the most part, I’m happy with my purges. Also, my biggest hack to the system is I have three sisters and, for all intents and purposes, their closets serve as an extension of my own. Items that I give them are never too far away. 

Afiya’s Essential Updates for Your Spring/Summer Wardrobe

THE BAG: I was really hoping to secure a Pierre Laborde bag during his inaugural online drop in April; but sadly, I was amongst the 99% who watched their cart empty before their eyes in frenzied disbelief. It is now my fashion white whale and I’m a woman on a mission to secure one.
THE SHOE: Khaite’s Jane studded leather flats are my one big purchase of the season.  They add the perfect amount of flair to an outfit, and they are one of the most comfortable pair shoes that I own. Their black Livia bag is also fantastic but to own both may be to enter into Tin Man territory.
THE SKIRT: I love a Tibi skirt and this season’s line up is no exception. An innovative take on classics, they’ve struck the perfect balance between unique and wearable for every day. –As told to Antonia Whyatt