ethical fashion

4 ways to style a minimal black dress -- late summer to early fall /  by Candice Tay

Oh hey, it’s been a while since I’ve written a long form blog post. I’m slowly making my way back here and sharing some fun styled photos of a cute dress I received recently from slow fashion brand, Tradlands. They are an ethical, sustainable brand that I’ve had the pleasure of working with since the very early beginnings of my time as a creator on the internet. Today, I’m sharing 3 very easy ways to style the Birdie Dress for late summer days to early fall because I’m tired of summer weather and am so ready for fall fashion. I am itching to pull out my cozy sweaters again.

I have tried many Tradlands dresses in the past, like the coveted Nico Dress and the super fun Nell Dress and I can attest that their dresses are so comfortable, easy, and low maintenance. The Birdie Dress is no different. I love the easy-to-care for crinkle cotton material that can be machined washed and does not need to be ironed, because I’m at a stage in life where if I have clothing that needs to be ironed, I will most likely not be wearing it often. It’s also reversible and like all the other Tradlands dresses, it has pockets!

*This post is not sponsored but does feature gifted product and affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, when you shop some of the links, I earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Thank you for your support of this blog!

Look 1

Here is look one — styled simply, as is, with the ties in the front. I threw on a beige baseball cap and matching beige socks (like a little sandwich) and then I did the socks and crocs thing. It’s comfortable, perfect for a summer day and easy enough to chase my kids around in.

Shop Look 1:

Black Birdie Dress (Size XS), All-Terrain Crocs Sandal, Le Bon Shop Ribbed Socks, Beige Baseball Cap (similar linked)

Look 2

When the weather starts to cool down, all you need is a good cardigan. That added layer just pulls together an outfit so easily. Another wonderful staple from Tradlands, is this beige cardigan that I’ve had for so many years. I love a ribbed, cotton cardigan that has just the right about of warmth for those early fall days. I kept the crocs for ease and I’ve really been liking that chunkier footwear style lately.

Shop Look 2:

Black Birdie Dress (Size XS), Cream Shelter Cardigan (Size S), All-Terrain Crocs Sandal

Look 3

I feel like early fall is the best time to wear knitted vests because it’s not too cold yet and just warm enough to have bare arms. I opted for this cozy knitted vest from Christy Dawn with the most beautiful button details and intricate knit pattern. To keep things casual with the footwear — crocs again. There’s a trend here.

Shop Look 3:

Black Birdie Dress (Size XS), Christy Dawn Dagny Vest (use code “CDCANDICE_TAY15” to save), All-Terrain Crocs Sandal

Look 4

I’m actually really excited to sport this look when it’s cold enough. I love the casual, laidback vibe but still really delicate and feminine with the dress and layered cropped blouse on top from Harly Jae. I love the different waffle texture it adds to the outfit even though it’s also a black piece. I went with the same beige ribbed socks and comfy New Balance 530s.

Thanks for reading my first post in a long time. I hope it offers some ideas for the next time you’re styling a black dress or maybe it’s getting you excited for fall?

How I'm Doing Postpartum Dressing /  by Candice Tay

Hello friends! It’s been a little while, but today I’m back to discuss my postpartum dressing journey. Before we get going I have a few thoughts to highlight. Please, please do not be discouraged by this post if you are not back to your pre-pregnancy size. I am not either! This post was written to encourage and show you how you can adapt your wardrobe to fit your changing body. Secondly, take your time with your body and be kind to yourself (a reminder to myself too). The newborn phase is a rollercoaster on all fronts so remember, grace, grace, grace. These are also just ideas and tips that I’ve discovered personally and thought I’d share, but every person is different and every body is unique and special so take what works for you and forget about the rest! Alright, let’s get into this!

 

Beige Sweater by asket
Wool plaid trousers by aritzia

1 - Elastic Waist Trousers

Even before pregnancy I’ve been about elastic waist anything because who doesn’t love pieces that are stylish AND comfortable? Why not have the best of both worlds. I’ve always been a huge fan of trousers as well because I like the more elevated look andthe elasticated waist adds to the comfort piece. I recently purchased these wool trousers off of Poshmark for the colder months ahead and have already been getting a ton of wear out of them. They are originally from Aritzia and are amazing quality. If you’re wanting the sweatpants feel while looking a bit more polished, I highly recommend styling up a pair of elastic waist trousers.

2 - Oversized EVERYTHING

Next, size up or wear oversized tops. I’ve always loved oversized pieces but I’m finding that I gravitate towards oversized pieces even more so now. It’s perfect for nursing and again, comfort, because comfort. is. key! For example, the beige sweater pictured on the right, is two sizes larger than my regular fit in order to achieve the oversized look and the black turtleneck in the outfit below was designed to be oversized. Oversized tops are a great piece to have in your postpartum wardrobe for style and practicality.

Side note: I realize that these outfits are very fall and winter focused, but you can definitely take these tips and apply it to your spring and summer wardrobe as well. Instead of an oversized chunky knit, stock up on those oversized tees. Those were my best friend in the early weeks after my son was born. For the elastic waist trousers, there are a ton of linen, tencel, and cotton trousers out there! Those are perfect materials for the warmer seasons.

Beige Sweater by asket
Wool plaid trousers by aritzia

Oversized Sweater by vetta
Wool plaid trousers by aritzia

3 - Denim Lovers: Opt for mid-rise

For the time being, I’ve had to forego the high waisted denim and pants because although some of them fit, they are a little too snug for my liking. Instead, I’ve been sporting a pair of mid rise denim these days. I’m a huge denim lover, so getting back into a pair of jeans was definitely a highlight for me. The mid rise of these straight leg jeans gives me that same denim look while providing a bit more comfort around my mid section.

4 - Cardigans and Button Ups (Plus a Bonus Tip!)

Since I’m needing to nurse my baby every three hours or so, I need things that open up easy in the front. That’s where the cardigans and button ups come in handy. The bonus tip here is to layer with nursing tanks. Not only under cardigans and button ups specifically, but under everything! I wear these tanks under everything because not only do they add warmth, but you don’t need to wear an additional bra and the snaps at the front allow for easy access when you need to nurse. Instead of wearing a t-shirt, for example, underneath a cardigan, I would wear a nursing tank or a nursing tee if you prefer, and when it comes time to feed, you can easily snap off the front and feed! My favourite nursing tanks are by Storq.

chunky knit cardigan by bare knitwear
mid rise jeans by asket

chunky cardigan by tradlands (candicemtay15)
nursing tank by storq (Candicemtay15)
mid rise denim by asket

5 - Loungewear Chic

Some days (or all days) you’ll probably just want to live in pjs or loungewear. GO FOR IT! For me, I found it helped me emotionally and mentally to get ready for the day (when I could). Even just changing out of my pjs into loungewear helped me feel a bit more alive and awake, even when most days I was, and still am running on very little sleep. It helped me get me out of the grogginess of the night and be recharged to tackle the day. When it comes to loungewear, pick some loungewear pieces that you love! Although I’m not one to follow trends much, loungewear post-pandemic is now trendy, so there are tons of great options out there. The pants pictured here are by Simple Folk, made of the softest organic cotton and cut in a beautiful wide leg silhouette with a comfortable high waist. With loungewear, a lot of my lounge pants are high waisted but they are elasticated and super comfy to wear around the home.

If you’re on the hunt for some loungewear, a few of my favourites come from TKEES (CANDICE10) and Mate The Label.

chunky knit by tradlands (candicemtay15)
WIDE LEG PANTS BY SIMPLE FOLK

VINTAGE OVERSIZED DENIM SHIRT
WIDE LEG PANTS BY SIMPLE FOLK

chunky knit by tradlands (candicemtay15)
WIDE LEG PANTS BY SIMPLE FOLK

Thanks for joining me today and I hope you enjoyed reading about my postpartum styling journey. It took me a while to find things that I loved again and to feel like “me” in my outfits, but I’m happy with the place I’m currently at.

Let me know your thoughts on postpartum dressing, I’d love to hear from you!

This post is not sponsored but may contain some gifted items and affiliate links. If you decide to shop through the links above, I may make a small commission that helps support this blog and other social platforms. I only share products and brands I love and support. All opinions are my own.

Thank you for supporting Candice Tay!

Styling Spring Knits /  by Candice Tay

It’s finally Spring here in Toronto but if you’ve ever lived in Canada, you know how the weather can take you for a rollercoaster ride during the Springtime. As I’ve slowly transitioned my winter wardrobe into my spring wardrobe, I’ve made sure to include a few lightweight knits for chilly Spring days and cool Summer evenings. If you’re curious how to style knitwear for Spring, keep reading on!

I’m also extremely excited to be partnering with a Canadian slow fashion brand, that I’ve admired for a long time, to bring you today’s styling post. I’ll be sharing three styles from their collection that are absolutely perfect for this transitional weather but also make great layering pieces throughout all seasons. If you’ve been looking to invest in high-quality knitwear staples for your closet, Bare Knitwear is definitely a brand to consider. I’ve also got a limited time exclusive discount code for my readers - see more below!

Partnership Disclosure: This post is produced in collaboration with Bare Knitwear and the Bare Knitwear pieces shown in this post were gifted or loaned as part of this partnership. I earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you) on all sales made with the exclusive code CANDICE10, valid from April 30th - May 14th.

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About The Brand

Before we get to styling, I wanted to share more about Bare Knitwear because they are doing amazing things. (Scroll on down if you want to hop to the styling first!) I recently met founder Kelsey Adair via email and really admire her passion for creating change in the fashion industry through her brand. Bare Knitwear is created in slow batch collections, which is the epitome of slow fashion! — It’s rare to see a lot of fashion brands working with this slow batch model these days. They only produce one refined collection a year, which reduces waste and eliminates excess inventory. They are also a brand committed to sustainable sourcing, working with fibres native to Peru, from suppliers who are committed to supporting local farmers. They only use dyes that have a OEKO-TEX 100 certification which ensures they comply with international standards on consumer and environmental safety — this is a huge deal! Bare Knitwear strives to empower local artisans while preserving the heritage of traditional Andean artisanal techniques. There is SO much skill required to make these pieces and each Bare Knitwear garment is handmade! Bare Knitwear’s fair trade certified garments are crafted in the Huamanga Region and employ about 150 - 300 artisans at the height of production season.

Reading more about Bare Knitwear and the process that these garments go through has made me recognize how much of an impact these pieces have. At the end of the day, it’s not just a long-lasting closet staple, it’s a hand-crafted piece of art that has helped preserve artisanal tradition and empower and promote the well-being of local Peruvian women. If you’re interested in learning more about their artisans, you can read more about Olga, a featured Bare Knitwear artisan.

Featured Pieces

These are the three garments that I’ll be walking you through today to help offer some insight into the pieces and help you make a more informed decision if you’re looking to invest in Bare Knitwear.

*Shop Bare Knitwear with 10% off using the exclusive code CANDICE10, valid through May 14th. (code does not apply to the sleep shirt pop up)

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The Styling

Spring is usually a time that I like to bring in light neutrals. For this first outfit I’ve styled the mock neck in a light and bright, Spring-appropriate monochrome look. I love how the beige sweater pairs so nicely with bright white pants and a pair of tan flats. Inspired by staying at home, in the second outfit I’ve styled the mock neck with a pair of slouchy trousers for the perfect cozy, at-home outfit. This outfit is great for lounging around or running out to do errands. I love that this knit can be styled tucked in or untucked.

The Material & Fit

The Mock Neck is made of 85% Pima Cotton and 15% Baby Alpaca. The blend of cotton and alpaca wool make it so soft (not itchy at all!), yet breathable and is a great light-weight piece to wear during transitional weather. This piece has a bit of weight to it allowing the garment to slouch nicely on the body. This pullover knit features a beautiful seamless mock neck collar and small slits on each side of the garment allowing for easy movement while wearing the piece. The sweater styled untucked hits me just slightly below the hip (I’m 5’5” and I have a longer torso). The sleeves hit at the perfect length and isn’t overly long or too short.

  • I’m wearing the Mock Neck in the colour natural in the size XS/S. This garment fits TTS.

  • Other colours: Olive and Black

  • Sizes available: XS/S, M/L, L/XL

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The Design Details

This sweater is a great no-fuss, every day piece. With the neutral colour “Natural”, classic and elegant silhouette, along with its relaxed fit, this sweater is so simple to pull together an outfit and can easily be dressed up or down. This mock neck features a delicate ribbed detail all throughout the piece that adds a bit of texture to this garment. I personally love how understated this piece is with the contemporary style as well as its seamless, minimal detailing. The garment drapes beautifully on the body and I love the straight sleeves that are intentionally left un-cuffed, completing the seamless, relaxed silhouette of the garment.

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The Styling

Next up is this classic henley! First I went for a casual, comfy style, pairing the henley with a pair of straight fit, boyfriend jeans and sneakers for the ultimate casual-chic outfit. This is another piece that can be styled tucked in for a more relaxed look. The second outfit I pulled together is another monochromatic outfit, pyjama-inspired outfit. I like to call this style “pyjama-chic”, again most likely inspired by all this staying in. Who says you can’t wear your pyjamas out?

The Material & Fit

The Seed Stitch Henley is made of 85% Pima Cotton and 15% Baby Alpaca. This garment is another lightweight piece from the collection that is incredibly soft and breathable. This is another great option for transitional weather when it’s not full on t-shirt weather but also not sweater weather. This piece, though made of the same fibres as the mock neck, a little more lightweight. It features a high neckline and a boxy silhouette with a relaxed fit. On me, this sweater hits me just at the hip and is the perfect length for styling with all types of bottoms. Because of the slouchy fit and the lightweight material, it makes this piece really easy to tuck in and is not bulky at all. The sleeves again hit at the perfect length and isn’t overly long or too short.

  • I’m wearing the Seed Stitch Henley in the colour Olive in the size XS/S. This garment fits TTS.

  • Other colours: Natural and Black

  • Sizes available: XS/S, M/L, L/XL

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The Design Details

I really appreciate all the intentional design decisions in Bare Knitwear pieces like this seed stitching all throughout the henley. It adds just the right amount of intrigue and texture to a classic shirt. Not to mention the sturdy, wooden buttons down the top centre of the shirt and the minimal ribbing on the cuffs, collar, and the hem of the shirt. It’s a great piece to be worn on its own or layered because of the loose-fitting silhouette. The muted olive-toned colour of this garment adds a subtle pop of colour to any wardrobe and although it’s not black or white, because of its earthy hue, it pairs nicely with a variety of bottoms.

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The Styling

The final piece I’m styling is this incredible oversized cardigan - the Marine Cardigan. It has just the right amount of “oversized-ness” without making me feel like I’m drowning in a ton of fabric. In the first outfit, I’ve styled a simple, classic outfit with a t-shirt and a pair of straight leg jeans allowing the cardigan to shine. In outfit two I’ve paired the cardigan over top of a classic black maxi, going for an overall casual, laid-back look. This cardigan honestly doesn’t need much “styling” because the beauty of this piece really speaks for itself.

The Material & Fit

The Marine Cardigan is hand loomed and is made of 43% baby alpaca, 43% merino wool and 14% polyamide. Considering the size of this cardigan, it’s incredibly lightweight and probably the lightest piece out of the three. Although it’s lightweight, it’s also the warmest of the three pieces and I can see myself wearing this piece from the dead of Winter into mid-Spring as an extra layer on cool nights. This cardigan has an oversized fit and hits me slightly below the hip. It features a drop shoulder and airy balloon sleeves. I’m wearing the cardigan in the colour Cloud Grey, which I think is a perfectly fitting name for this soft, fluffy cardigan.

  • I’m wearing the Marine Cardigan in the colour Cloud Grey in the size XS/S. This garment has an oversized fit and fits TTS.

  • Other colours: Taupe

  • Sizes available: XS/S, M/L, L/XL

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The Design Details

The Marine Cardigan is the ultimate, staple cardigan to have in any wardrobe. It’s not only a pretty investment piece, but it’s also a practical garment complete with deep patch pockets on the front of the cardigan. It can be styled up or down and has the most beautiful billowy silhouette that leaves you feeling like you’re wrapped up in the biggest hug. I also like the attention to detail shown in the vintage, fishermen knit inspired ribbing that adds a lovely textural element to the garment.

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Shop the marine cardigan in cloud grey and use the code CANDICE10 for 10% off + free shipping over $200 (Code does not apply to the sleep shirt pop up)

Concluding Thoughts

Thank you so much for reading my thoughts and joining me in learning more about Bare Knitwear. I love discovering and sharing ethical, slow fashion brands with you. Overall, if you’re looking to invest in knitwear for your closet, I would highly recommend Bare Knitwear. From the intentionality of their classic, simplistic designs combined with traditional artisanal craftsmanship, to the sustainable sourcing, to the ethical manufacturing that helps empower women, Bare Knitwear is a brand that I am so proud to be partnering with and is one who’s mission I can really get behind. Although it is a larger up front investment, these pieces are high-quality, long-lasting, and crafted with care. On a side note, now more than ever, I think it’s important to voice our opinions about slow fashion by supporting small businesses with our purchases or by simply sharing about them where you can. Bare Knitwear is produced in small batches, so if you’ve got your eye on something, I’d love to partner with you in supporting Bare Knitwear by offering the code CANDICE10 valid through May 14.

If you’re not looking to purchase something right now, I hope you’ve been inspired and encouraged by all the wonderful things that Bare Knitwear is doing and the beautiful pieces they are creating. I’m happy to have simply introduced you to a new slow fashion brand that is making a positive impact in the fashion industry.

Other Outfit Details

Thanks for stopping by! This post contains affiliate links and if you decide to make a purchase through the links above, I may make a small commission that helps support this blog and other social accounts. As always, I only share products and brands I love and support. Thank you for supporting Candice Tay!