Bio

Toronto-based designer, Rachel Sin knows a thing or two about city dressing. With a Masters in Architect, and a successful brand of city-wear in her design repertoire, Rachel proves that experience is the best teacher. Viewing her designs as a further reach of her love of architect, her designs feature strong lines, graphic prints, and classic colour combos. Sin is all for simple, understated style that is functional and wearable in everyday life. Rachel designs for the working woman that is independent, confident, and original, who wants a good wardrobe of city essentials to rely on. Stay up to date with this rising designer’s collections and daily life on Twitter and shop her website RachelSin.com.

Q&A

You never leave home without…

I almost never leave home without my Asus Rose Gold laptop. It’s lightweight and beautiful to look at, so I don’t think twice about carrying it with me.

What inspires and influences your style?

The independent working woman inspires me, because this is who I am and what I love to see in other women. I love seeing strong women who take pride in what they wear and use their wardrobe as an extension of their confidence, originality and personal style. As an architect you are foremost a designer and you are passionate about good design. You are typically the obsessive controlling type that has the need to shape your own environment. I have learned to open my eyes to the every day and pay attention to details. You get excited when you see something well-made or elegantly designed. When you see something beautiful, you can’t take your eyes off it and you can’t keep it out of your mind. I hope to extend this feeling to my designs, so they become the must-have item in your closet.

What are 3 basics you must always have?

Silk shirt: A fool-proof basic that always looks good with skinny jeans. Tailored blazer: An easy way to polish any outfit. The Ponte Sheath Dress: Classic, comfortable and can take you from day to night.

How do you describe your personal style?

I’m always working and on the run, I try to keep my everyday work wear polished yet effortless and always comfortable. I think that’s why my collection has a wearable quality, wearable in the sense that it is versatile and can transition from day to night.

You always splurge on and you always save on…

Rather than splurging on a brand name purse, I prefer to distribute more evenly on a well thought-out and put together outfit. One of my pet peeves is women that showoff an expensive purse, while their entire ensemble is lacking in any thought and effort. I always splurge on key clothing items that are versatile. When a piece of clothing can be styled many ways to create various outfits, the value increases with the number of times you can wear it. When I truly love an item of clothing, I know I can mix it to create different looks

What is your favourite outfit you’ve ever worn?

Graphic print tuxedo to the CAFA awards. Opting for a pant suit over a dress is the perfect balance between sexy and subversive. This outfit makes such a statement without looking like you are trying too hard.

Your fashion motto is…

Style is saying who you are without having to speak.

Your #1 Style Tip is…

Opposites attract. Whether it’s hard and soft, fitted and loose, feminine and masculine, tailored and relaxed, girlish but grown-up – mixing unexpected elements creates an element of surprise and keeps it interesting.