What are your closet essentials?

Everyone needs a good pair of shoes. People put too much emphasis on the latest “It” bag, which in my opinion doesn’t necessarily equate to style. 

Let’s say you have this season’s hottest Chanel bag on your arm, but you’re wearing bad shoes. You go to work, and put your handbag away, but you’re still wearing those bad shoes. All of a sudden, your look doesn’t have that thing that made it special anymore. Now imagine the same outfit but this time with a pair of beautiful, well-made shoes. Suddenly your outfit holds its own, with or without the “It” bag. Shoes can make or break an outfit and they say a lot about a person. 

Another closet essential is a good jacket. Even if you’re wearing a simple t-shirt and jeans, a good jacket can pull a look together. 

Finally accessories are a must-have for me. In particular, eye glasses. I have a collection of eyewear that gives me a variety of options to change the whole vibe of an outfit.

What is your biggest fashion regret?

I wanted to pursue fashion in my education, but I thought it would be too risky so I played it safe and went into graphic design instead. It wasn’t my true calling though, and I did eventually end up in fashion when I launched my blog – woahstyle.com. I’ve always been driven to help other people by imparting my knowledge, in order to help them feel their best.

You always splurge on, and you always save on…

I say splurge on jackets, blazers or on accessories like shoes/jewelry/glasses/small leather goods.

Look for sales and save on basics, like t-shirts, sweatshirts, or jeans. Quality over quantity though!

What is one piece of clothing you wish you could steal from your 16 year old self?

A pair of jeans that I had stolen from my dad. They were a loose fit, straight leg denim that sat low on my hips, and had that authentic worn-in look to them. It was the 90’s and worn-in jeans with a rip at the knee was everything back then!

What inspires your style most?

Growing up it was the 90’s music grunge scene that can still be seen in elements of my style today. I’d look for runway interpretations from some of my favourite designers like Marc Jacobs (for Perry Ellis), Todd Oldham, and Anna Sui.

These days I’m inspired by people who dress for themselves, like Harry Styles. Then there’s the Olsen Twins, Jenna Lyons, Christine Centenera and Patti Smith who have great personal style. I’ll also look at @thebirkinboy on Instagram for inspiration and I’ll add my own twist to an outfit.

To find my inspo, I’ll primarily use Pinterest, and sometimes Instagram.

You’re Number 1 style tip is…

Always dress for yourself – fill your closet with pieces that you love and forget about the trends. I promise, you’ll feel more comfortable and exude confidence. Most importantly you’ll build a collection in your closet that will bring you joy for years to come.

*PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NATHALIE MARTIN