Aritzia is no doubt one of the most popular brands in Canada. Any time I’m looking for style inspiration, I’m always checking out the trendy brand’s new arrivals section — but I always worry it feels a bit too young.
As a mom of two in my late 40s (I’m turning 49 in less than a month), it sometimes feels like Aritzia is too cool for me. But on a recent trip to the mall, I decided to pop into the store, and I was pleasantly surprised by how many things felt like they were right up my alley. I ended up trying on more than 35 pairs of pants, coats and more, and I was pleasantly surprised by how age-appropriate they all felt. Among the top contenders are a pair of flowy cashmere pants and the ultimate little black dress that made me feel like Audrey Hepburn.
Below, check out 12 of my favourite pieces I tried on that made me feel comfortable and stylish as a 48-year-old.
These flowy pants are great paired with a pair of pointy-toed boots. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
Loose, flowy pants are a go-to of mine for summer — and in the right fabric, they can extend well into fall and winter. I love the drawcord tie bows on the sides of these, they add a touch of style to their practicality. Plus, the Crepette fabric is my absolute favourite; it virtually never wrinkles. I can pack these pants in my overnight bag, and they’ll still look clean and crisp when I take them out. They are available in six different colourways, but I am favouring the dark navy.
This midi dress is formfitting without being too constricting. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
I feel like Audrey Hepburn in this formfitting midi dress that totally channels old-school Hollywood. The dress features cap sleeves and a low back, making it something you could easily wear from the boardroom to cocktail hour. Crafted from stretchy fabric, it provides gentle support without feeling restrictive—almost like built-in shapewear.
These cozy cashmere pants come in four different colourways. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
Nothing says luxury like cashmere. These drapey, soft pants feel amazing against my skin and instantly elevate my casual style — these would make me the coolest mom in the school drop off line or working at my local coffee shop. The warm, cozy pants also hug my body in all the right places, creating a flattering, slimming silhouette. They feel like sweatpants, but are so much more stylish.
This V-neck dress flares out at the waist, making it extremely flattering. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
This lightweight, drapey dress is crafted from semi-sheer fabric, giving it an ethereal look. Button-closure cuffs provide a tailored touch, while the full lining offers added coverage. The front slit adds a bit of edge. I’d totally pair it with sheer tights and short boots for a fresh fall look.
This was my favourite piece I tried on at Aritzia. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
The collar, the cut, the slim fit — I love everything about this adorable tweed jacket. The button-up front and patch pockets elevate the style of this fully lined coat. I felt like the cutest version of myself in this look, and even though it’s a slim fit, it wasn’t too tight — even with a tank top and long-sleeved shirt underneath.
This insulated jacket will keep you toasty. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
I had a jacket almost exactly like this in 2003 — but I sadly lost it on the subway. I’ve been searching for a replacement ever since, and have never found one I like quite as much as this. The lightweight, insulated coat provides all the warmth you need, without any extra bulk. The canvas outer layer adds a cool, casual vibe, while the faux shearling lining keeps you warm and cozy.
Aritzia’s Super Puff jackets are a yearly bestseller — and it’s easy to see why. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
This Super Puff jacket is super awesome. Made with lightweight insulation, this cozy coat will keep you warm in temperatures as low as -20°C. It’s no wonder the Super Puff line is among Aritzia’s yearly bestsellers. While there are a variety of lengths and styles available, I’m partial to the cropped Shorty on my small frame.
I love the pale blue colourway of this cable knit sweater. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
The 100 percent extra fine merino wool of this turtleneck sweater means I can wear it over a tank or tee without it being itchy. I love the high turtleneck collar for extra warmth, and I’m a huge fan of the cable knit design. It’s also a bit longer, making it a great bum-covering choice for winter.
I love the mock neck of this stylish blouse. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
This lightweight, loose-fitting top elevates any look. It features a zip-up back and a comfortably fitting mock neck. I don’t own many “grown-up” blouses, so perhaps it’s time to add one to my wardrobe. The button-closure cuffs also add a bit of polish.
I love the “Blue Jays” blue of this oversized cashmere sweater. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
As someone who is always cold, this 100 per cent plush cashmere sweater is calling my name. The soft drape of the oversized V-neck feels amazing! Also, how much do I love it in this bright blue? As a Blue Jays fan, it almost feels like my duty to purchase this chic sweater — although it’s just as pretty in the other five colours it comes in.
A tailored vest looks great paired with just about anything, and is a great layering piece for the office. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
This structured vest fits my petite frame beautifully. Its lined, button-up design is crafted from stretchy fabric that moves with me, so it never feels restrictive. Since I’m not the biggest fan of my stomach, the subtle peekaboo detail at the hem is just the right touch of boldness for me. It’s incredibly versatile — I can pair it with jeans, joggers or an A-line skirt.
I love the cropped fit of this cozy vest. (Photo via Sarah DiMuro)
You know when you put on something and you instantly feel cute? That’s exactly what happened when I tried on this cropped thermal fleece. I love the cozy texture of the fabric, and I can easily picture it with my favourite turtleneck and joggers. It’s cozy, comfortable and fits my playful personality to a T! Plus, I love how it’s a bit more cropped for my small frame.
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