I don't like my 'boyfriends'

Some relationships are just not meant to be.

A few days ago, I set out on a mission to buy myself a pair of 'boyfriend' jeans. I know, I'm late to the party by many months, but I just thought these jeans would be perfect to wear to the park to hang out with other moms, and what better way to hide a pair of granny underwear and a giant maxi pad? Then of course there's the option of slipping on some high heels with those same jeans and becoming instantly sexy and ready for a night on the town, right? Is that too much to ask of one pair of pants?

Yes, it is.

I tried on several pairs, and wasn't quite sure of any of them, which should have been my first clue that this was not going to work out. Somehow, though, I convinced myself that if I just gave them a chance, brought them home and threw on a cashmere turtleneck and my favourite stilettos, I wouldn't look like an awkward teenager that raided her father's closet. This, in fact, is exactly what I did the first time this trend appeared in the 80s. Thankfully, I settled on a pair from the store with the best return policy. After giving them an honest try with practically everything in my wardrobe, I knew I had to get rid of them. It wasn't me, it was them.

Maybe it was the way they made my ass look flatter and saggier than it actually is. Maybe it was that extra space at the crotch meant for a penis, a penis that I don't have. I think the real reason though is that jeans have gotten so good with their fit in the past few years, I just can't settle for a pair that doesn't maximize my rear view, slenderize my thighs and make my legs super long. Why would I invest in an article of clothing that just isn't flattering? Why should you?

I realized that what I really liked about this style was the look of rolled up jeans. It's a cute, casual, and fun look. So I'll just save myself the ridiculous $200 and roll up the jeans I already own. Problem solved.

As for 'boyfriend' jackets, there's another trend I'm not falling for. While I still have a waist, I'll be wearing my jackets nice and fitted, thank you.

Speaking of jeans, here are some that are really special:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqn7ILWOr_c

Though I think that they're missing their target clientele by featuring some casually dressed woman strolling through suburbia. How about a group of cougars in high heels, strutting through a singles' bar? Or better yet, a young hot guy dancing up a storm in the gay part of town?

Spring Fever (well, eventually, I hope!)

So here I am sitting in Montreal, this morning's temperature was -2 degrees Celsius and we still have some snow on the ground. It's hard to believe spring is just around the corner the way those last weeks of winter seem to really drag on. I used to do a lot of work for fashion magazines, shoots were sometimes done at their offices, and one of the things I loved best about being there was losing myself in the racks of clothing, getting a great preview of the upcoming season's fashions. It was particularly uplifting to go there in the dead of winter, all the spring and summer clothing would be on display, their lively colours and flouncy fabrics as a reminder (and as proof) that the warm weather was on it's way. Since taking a break from working in the fashion industry, I have no access to rooms full of pretty clothes to lift my spirits, and the spring merchandise has yet to really arrive here in Montreal.

So how have I coped this year with the seemingly never-ending Canadian winter? Well, aside from lots of exercise, I invested in one of those light therapy boxes and upped my intake of vitamins, particularly b-complex and omega 3. Most of all though, my favourite winter pick-me-up is devouring the spring issue of every FASHION MAGAZINE I can get my hands on. Usually with a nice cup of tea and some dark chocolate, while the baby sleeps.

I always enjoy seeing the spring/summer collections, even if I don't like the clothes the colours and textures are always so gorgeous and cheery. The makeup collections also provide some inspiration, and I find myself going through all my magazines and making lists of things to try out. Rather than wishing away the icy patches on my front steps, I'm am almost grateful to have a little more time to prepare for and anticipate the warm days. Nah, not really.

Happy Spring!