Fernie Essentials this Winter
One of the things I love about Fernie is that you can wear anything you want with no judgment. Whether in jeans and a tee or a gorge party dress, your style is welcome and accepted in our little mountain town.
In saying that, dressing for a Canadian winter brings its challenges. When opening the front door you could be met with two feet of snow, the perfect bluebird day (with the temp either at -1 or -25!) or a torrential downpour.
It can be a daunting task - how do I dress for this kind of extreme weather - but it doesn’t have to be. With the right essentials you will be ready to take on any day that Fernie throws at you.
The Essentials!
Layers. Layers are your friend. Get it right and you won’t let a chilly day stop your fun.
If you’re off on a day of cold-weather adventure then thermal clothing is a must. Merino wool is a favourite for wicking moisture and keeping you warm. I love the oh-so soft and versatile ‘Icebreaker Oasis’ base layer from The Guides Hut.
For day-to-day, my absolute go-to is by C’est Moi (which are made from bamboo so they’ll help regulate your body temp) from Freyja Lifestyle Fashion. Their leggings and long sleeve top may just be the most comfortable clothing you have ever put on.
You need to keep those feet warm and there are plenty of options for you. For those big snowfall days you can’t go past a pair of ‘Joan of Artic’ Sorel boots. Available at Ski Base, your feet will stay warm, dry and comfortable all the way down to -32. Perfect!
For everyday my feet don’t leave my Vans ‘SK8-Hi MTE’ from Edge of The World. Weather-resistant and lined with warm fleece and a heat retention layer, you can wear your sneakers all winter!
Freyja has also brought in winter Native boots. Vegan, Canadian and super cute, I bet we’ll see many a pair walking the streets of Fernie this winter.
If you’re hitting the hill then great quality snow pants are a must. I’m all about the bib pant (no snow down the back on those big powder days) and Volcom do an awesome one, which you can find at Edge of the World.
Chunky knits for the win. Always. Edge of the World, Commit Snow and Skate and Frejya all have a great selection. You can also find sweet oversized hoodies that will have you wanting to cozy up by the fire with a Hot Toddy.
If you’re in need of a new jacket, you’re in luck. Frejya has so many coats that you won’t know how to pick just one. I fell in love with their Vero Moda Teddy Coat. Perfect over almost any outfit and yes, you will look like a plush, cuddly bear.
Commit has me all excited for their Swedish label, WearColour’s winter range. The KJ Jacket has my name on it. If you see it on the ski hill it’s probs me. Make sure you say hi.
We’re so lucky to have 2nd Ave jam packed with so many must-have items. Take an afternoon stroll and see what’s out there. No doubt you will find the perfect item to match you style.
Weather affects your mood and we tend to dress for our mood. That’s the beauty of fashion; just wear what makes you feel good… and keeps you warm.
Emma Polit is a mom of two and a self-professed fashionista who also manages the Fernie Legion!