News flash: Taylor Swift is an absolute icon, not only lyrically and musically but also in her style. Throughout many of Swift’s eras, her style tends to shift with them. But as she’s currently in her Eras era, there’s a bit of extra freedom emulated in her style, and we can’t help but notice how great her “off-duty” looks have been. If you’re Swifties like us, you may have been wondering how you can achieve (even slightly) her girly-meets-classic-meets-sophisticated-meets-playful style. We’ve got you. From pieces inspired by outfits she’s worn to pieces she’s actually been spotted wearing, we’ve rounded up 13 (see what we did there?) pieces to shop if you love Taylor Swift’s style.
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The fashion in Emily In Paris gets everyone talking. The unconventional styling using loud colours, prints, textures, and silhouettes in the show makes fashion a vast topic when referencing Emily In Paris. Honestly, people talk about the outfits far more than the plot lines it seems – just as we currently are! Although Emily’s style, in particular, has been quite controversial, there’s just something so fascinating and unapologetic about it, that makes people want to get her look! So, we’ve scoured the internet to find pieces we think even Emily herself would shop!
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Amanda Skrabucha’s Instagram is a magenta-toned aesthetic dream for fashion, beauty, and travel lovers world-wide. Along with her incredible photography skills, Amanda is also a journalist, previously working with Glamour Poland and College Fashionista, and the founder of her blog, amanda.eu.com.
We talked to Toronto-born and based, Polish-raised, journalist, blogger, and photographer, Amanda Skrabucha all about her career, style, and everything in between.
Tell me a little bit about what you do.
I’m a journalist and photographer and blogger and I create visually appealing content about fashion, beauty, and travel. One of the main things I focus on is photography because I am mostly a visual storyteller. With my blog and my Instagram, I don’t expect people to follow everything I do or sell the same clothes or anything like that, I just want to inspire them to create. I want to use my blog and Instagram as an outlet to show my audience the possibilities and the choice is theirs.
How did you break into the fashion and blogging industry?
I started my website strictly as my portfolio for my journalism and at Ryerson, I was a writer for CanCulture for a year where I was doing photography work for fashion. After a year they asked me to be a fashion editor. I never really expected myself in fashion because my family members are in fashion and they were always telling me how competitive and unhealthy this industry is and I should do whatever I want as long as it was not fashion. I always imagined myself in travel journalism and after the position as a fashion editor at CanCulture, I was given more opportunities to explore this area, going to different events and meeting different people and that’s what inspired me to go more into the industry. I was volunteering for different publications online writing, but then I realized I could do it for myself. I don’t have to write for someone, I can do it on my blog and expand it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BfT1b4xl5WO/?taken-by=amandaskrabucha
What would you say is your biggest achievement in your career so far?
My biggest achievement so far was being an intern for Glamour Poland because I got to do whatever I wanted. My most memorable experience was a year after when they asked me to go with them to Open’er in Poland which is a music festival` and they asked me to be there to help them with photography and social media. That was a very cool experience.
Describe your style in three words.
Comfortable – Feminine – Casual
How would you define style?
Style for me is a tool to express your personality. I like to use it to empower me and make me feel better about myself. When I feel good in my clothes, I feel more confident and I feel like I can do anything.
What’s one trend you never really got into?
I was always scared about wearing fitted t-shirt bodysuits because I didn’t want to expose too much but I feel like once it got more popular and everyone started wearing it, I wanted to give it a try more often. I always loved it and wanted to try it but I was always afraid of showing too much.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BdxRltqFREE/?taken-by=amandaskrabucha
What is your go-to outfit?
Probably jeans, a white t-shirt and a neutral colour sweater with nice boots. If you have a good wardrobe of essential pieces, it’s easy to mix and match and grab something to wear when you’re on the go.
What is the most sentimental item in your closet?
I have this denim purse that I got from my mom and she got it from my dad when they were in high school so I think that’s the most valuable item I have.
What are your favourite stores to shop in?
In Poland it’s definitely Zara and Bershka. I feel like in Poland, Zara has different collections than in Canada too. Here I love Urban Outfitters and vintage stores in Kensington Market.
What is your favourite fashion trend right now?
I love the baker boy hats and mom jeans. I get my jeans from American Apparel which is gone now but all their items are different because it was handmade so I finally found the perfect mom jean there.
Where do you get your style inspiration from?
The biggest influence on my style are my parents, especially my mom. Whenever I see a picture of her when she was young, we have very similar styles. And also, my dad loves going shopping and he has his own sense of style.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bc4h3wOluEQ/?taken-by=amandaskrabucha
Featured image: Instagram/ @amandaskrabucha
Our next Style Spotlight is one of Toronto’s most familiar sports personalities.
Allow us to introduce you to Kat Stefankiewicz.
As the in-game and digital host for the Toronto Raptors, Kat is always in the limelight and understands the value of sticking to one’s own unique style. Since graduating from the triple threat Music Theatre Performance Program at Sheridan College, Kat has also dabbled in feature film, television and live theatre. If it’s something involving the entertainment industry even in the slightest, it’s safe to assume Kat’s already done it.
Kat joined the Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment family as a member of the Raptors Dance Pak shortly after graduating college, which she was a member of for five seasons and standing as captain for three. Kat then joined the NBA TV Canada team as a reporter, replacing her dancing shoes with a microphone as the Raptors in-game host.
We had the opportunity to chat with Kat about her style, her favourite places to shop in Toronto and what it means to live a balanced life.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BeQZqr8hYi0/?taken-by=matterofkat
Tell us a little about who you are and what you do.
I’m a creative nerd at heart, a performer by trade and a storyteller by what the world has called me to do. I’m a host and personality in television and live events including my ties to the Toronto Raptors as their in-game host and the host of NBA XL on NBA TV Canada. I’m also a spin instructor at Spokehaus, an Adidas ambassador and I dabble daily in the digital media field as an influencer and use it as a platform to share my raw tales and theories to unite us on an imperfectly perfect level… Every day is a different beast and I wouldn’t want it any other way!
I’m also an avid supporter of a healthy lifestyle for both the body and mind. Balance is my favourite word and my days are molded around this. You should see the length of my bucket list! I try to attack it daily. I’m fueled by coffee, sarcasm and happy people so those are always in my 24/7.
Define your style in three words.
Eclectic, tomboy, chic.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BdUB4zGBqGq/?taken-by=matterofkat
What are some of your own ‘style rules’ you like to live by?
I don’t believe in rules. I believe anything goes because it’s your confidence that carries the outfit. Style is an expression of the characteristics and unique traits that you hold within you that sometimes you can’t find words for or don’t even know that you carry with you every day. Honestly, I like breaking the rules. I don’t feel comfortable following trends. I don’t feel comfortable when I’m wearing the same outfit as others in the room. Maybe that’s why “this is me” is the vibe I give off in my style.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BbssQW1BQd9/?taken-by=matterofkat
Looking back, what are some trends you wish you hadn’t worn, aka your style regrets?
I did the velour tracksuit when it came back for a hot minute in high school and now it’s back again! Adidas has some fabulous ones right now but I just can’t give in yet. I did it all in high school; the posh spice haircut with multiple colours, fake glasses. I went to a Catholic school and wore a uniform so your hair and accessories were where you could express yourself. I don’t think I regret anything, it just makes me laugh. Maybe leg warmers with EVERYTHING in theatre school was a bit much.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BcWOx6jBTMl/?taken-by=matterofkat
What’s one item in your closet you can’t live without?
A leather fanny pack. I hate purses.
You’re running late. What’s your go-to outfit?
It’s winter, so a black turtleneck, jeans, military boots with too many buckles and bling and a fedora.
What are your go-to shopping destinations in Toronto?
Zara is my absolute go-to. They cater to both simplicity and pieces that no one would wear until they see you in it. I also love Anthropologie and Durumi at Queen and Spadina.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BbQtPTABeZg/?taken-by=matterofkat
Do you have any favourite local designers?
I’m obsessed with Greta Constantine. Their pieces are classic with personality. I constantly hope to be invited to weddings so I have a place to wear two of my favourite dresses.
If you could give style advice to your followers, what would it be? What about life advice?
Be you! The real you won’t shine if you cover it with what everyone else is doing. Just rock what the day is asking for with confidence. Some days I want to hide in the most simple ensemble, and the next day I’m in thigh-high red boots. Enjoy the artistic outlet, if that’s your thing.
As for life advice, trust that you’re enough. When you believe in yourself, amazing things happen. Make trying new things a priority, even if they scare the crap out of you, because they cater to your growth. Find the simplicity in your days and notice why it’s important. Live in the moment and not the tomorrow, it will guide you to your next steps. Life is too short to rush. Watch the snow fall, spend a day at home alone on your couch and read a book by yourself on the dock in the summer. Always live with the intention of making moments and stories worth telling your grandkids about. When you are comfortable and confident in yourself, that’s when the beautiful shows up. Make loving yourself your number one.
How can our readers keep up with you online?
Instagram is my thang! @matterofkat is my handle everywhere. I love connecting with people, so reach out! And katstefankiewicz.com.
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Nowadays, office wear isn’t restricted to pencil skirts, button-up blouses and stuffy suits — a new day and age has brought about a new way of dressing, and in many professional offices, (almost) anything goes. In our new series, we take you into some of the best dressed offices around the city to give you a taste of what they’re wearing.
When it comes to public relations, big isn’t always better… The PR mavens at Macintyre Communications prove just that; their boutique agency may have a small team but they offer big results. Led by Ashley Macintyre and Sarah Fukumoto, the Toronto-based company has pulled in major clients like Samsung, Lancôme, Garnier, NYX, Geox, and more.
Having such a diverse roster, the boss lady duo and their dream team of ladies are tastemakers to say the least. Their knack for style and eye for trends can be seen in what they wear, in and out of the office. We popped by their downtown Toronto hub to ask them about their style, favourite designers, biggest splurges and more.
Ashley is wearing a Kenzo sweater dress, Stuart Weitzman boots and accessories by a variety of designers.
What are your go-to brands? I love Alexander Wang, Think Reese, Helmut Lang, and Oak and Fort for basics.
Where do you go for style inspiration? People watching is the best place to be inspired.
What was your biggest splurge this year? An Acne Jacket was a splurge this year!
What are your favourite Toronto designers? Ellie Mae has great jackets and Greta Constantine is my go-to dresses! Faded Lifestyle has great street style pieces. Think Reese has amazing t-shirts! Poppy & Peonies has great everyday bags.
Which city has the best style? Milan.
What’s your work uniform? In typical PR form, I’m always wearing black on black. A jumpsuit and heels or leather pants and sneakers depending on the day.
What’s the best fashion advice you can give our readers? Find something you love and buy it in every colour (or black, white and grey).
If you had to throw away all your clothes except one piece, what would you keep? My Line Knitwear leather jacket has been with me for years and will stay for years!
Sarah is wearing Acne Boots, Levi’s denim, T by Alexander Wang t-shirt, vintage blazer and vintage/assorted accessories.
What are your go-to brands? So many brands to choose from! I wouldn’t say I have any go-to brands as my taste is constantly evolving. A few of my favourite brands right now are Golden Goose (sneakers), Adina Mills (jewelry) and Asos for everything else. Isabel Marant and Rag & Bone if I’m going to splurge.
Which city has the best style? Berlin.
What was your biggest splurge this year? A Rag & Bone trench coat.
What’s your go-to outfit on a day off? Ripped jeans, white t-shirt and pending on the activities – pumps or sneakers and a hoody or leather jacket. Weekends are also a time for hats.
Where do you go for style inspiration? Travel. If I’m travelling – I always find inspiration on the street. If I’m not travelling, looking to people who are documenting their travel and finding exciting and freshness there.
What’s the best fashion advice you can give our readers? Don’t look on Pinterest and dress like someone else’s style board – dress in what you love, what is comfortable to YOU, and what you most identify with. What makes you feel good? Wear that.
What are your favourite clothing shops in Toronto? It changes on a regular basis. I love anything Made In Canada and small Toronto local shops that have Toronto designers are always a must-shop location.
If you had to throw away all your clothes except one piece, what would you keep? A vintage fur jacket that was my grandmother’s.
All images by Aly Zorn
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Our next Style Spotlight will inspire you to wear eccentric prints even if you think you can’t, be bold and stand out from the crowd.
Allow us to introduce you to Hayley Elsaesser.
She is a Toronto-based fashion designer, originally from Cambridge, ON, who didn’t always plan on being a designer. Elsaesser studied psychology for a while, but it was when she was spending all her time sewing clothes to sell on eBay she realized it was time for a career change.
She jetted off to Brisbane, Australia where she graduated with honours in Fine Arts Fashion and was selected along with 11 other fashion graduates to participate in the L’Oreal Graduate Showcase at Melbourne Fashion Week. After all the positive feedback and buzz-worthy attention, the Hayley Elsaesser brand was born.
Since then, her brand has become a go-to celebrity style favourite. Her designs have been worn by Katy Perry, Lilly Singh, Jessi Cruickshank and more. She even made a custom three-piece outfit for Miley Cyrus last season on The Voice.
We had the opportunity to chat with Hayley Elsaesser about her style, her go to outfit when running late and the number one style rule she lives by. Check out the interview below.
Introducing Hayley Elsaesser
Tell us a little about you and what you do.
I’m based in Toronto now, but I started my brand in Australia. My brand is known for being really bright and colourful and printed and just lots of fun.
Define your clothing brand in three words.
Vibrant, colourful and strong.
What are some of your own style ‘rules’ that you like to live by?
Don’t follow style rules. There’s a lot of style rules specifically for people to flatter their bod[ies] which I think is just really stupid because we shouldn’t be dressing just to look a certain way, we should be dressing to feel good and feel nice. For me, really it’s just putting together an outfit that you feel really good in. Try new things and get out of your comfort zone.
What inspires you as a fashion designer?
I’m definitely inspired by pop culture. I’ve always been a quiet person and I like movies because it’s kind of my escape. I’m pretty reserved which is weird because my clothes are so the anti of that, but that’s why I design what I do.
How do you feel when you see celebrities in your clothes?
I still can’t get used to it. It’s really crazy to me because, especially [with] people like Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus that have been around since before I started my brand, that I knew about before this portion of my life, I never would have imagined thinking back that one day they would be wearing my stuff. It never gets old.
Who’s one celebrity you want to wear your clothes who hasn’t yet?
Rihanna. She has the most amazing style, she always wears the best stuff. I could probably die happy if I could get her wearing some of my clothes.
Inside the Hayley Elsaesser flagship store on Queen St. West
Looking back, what were some trends you wish you hadn’t worn (aka your style regrets)?
The only regrets I have is when I was younger not wearing stuff that I actually really wanted to, kind of following the crowd a bit too much. Wearing stuff that just wasn’t really my style, just trying to fit in a little bit too much – that’s what I regret.
You’re running late. What’s your go-to outfit?
Jeans, a T-shirt and a jacket. I usually wear jeans every day and some sort of T-shirt and then a printed jacket because then it looks really put together but it’s just something really easy and quick that you can put on.
What’s one item in your closet that you can’t live without?
Overalls. I have several pairs that are all printed; they’re just so comfortable and easy to wear. It’s kind of like wearing pajamas, but it looks like you’ve come up with a whole full outfit. They’re just so crazy, I look like a cartoon when I wear them and I love it.
What’s your a must have summer accessory?
Sunglasses. Coco Channel has that thing where she says, “Put everything on and then take one thing off,” I think it’s the opposite; put everything on and then put on something else. So put on the sunglasses or add something fun. I just like how they really complete a look.
What do you say to people who look at your clothes and say, ‘I can’t wear something like that’?
You totally can no matter what you think. It’s really easy to do; you just have to take it one step at a time. Don’t try and go head-to-toe crazy clashing prints because that’s just going to be overwhelming and you might feel like you’re in some sort of costume and not like yourself.
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Our next Style Spotlight will inspire you to travel the world and chase after your dreams.
Allow us to introduce you to Kiara Schwartz.
There’s no denying that the Vancouver-native has an eye for style, travel and beauty. Her Instagram account has amassed a huge following of over 50,000 followers, inspired by her daily adventures and lust for life. On top of that, she’s had the opportunity to work with a number of renown brands, including Nordstrom, GUESS, H&M and Ford Canada, to name a few.
We had the chance to talk to Kiara Schwartz about the must-shop spots in Vancouver, the best piece she ever found on sale, and the one item in her closet that she can’t live without.
Tell us a little about you and what you do.
The short story is, I do what I love. The more evolved story would be that I love to imagine that TobruckAve and the content we curate and publish inspires our readers to travel, to explore their personal style, and to design their own life and surround themselves with new and exciting destinations. Whether that is a new coffee shop to discover or a new beach to conquer. No discovery is to small even in personal style!
Define your style in three words.
Simplified boho.
What are some of your own style ‘rules’ that you like to live by?
Layering is an art, so there is no wrong!
Denim always matches denim!
A white tee with gold jewelry, enough said.
Overalls are my jam.
Spill the beans. Looking back, what were some trends you wish you hadn’t worn (aka. Your style regrets)?
Back in the day I probably should have skipped dressing like a boy. Over sized baggy pants did not serve my teenage angst moments.
What’s an item in your closet that you can’t live without?
Vintage Levis 501’s. They are my go to for when I am looking for a cool outfit and also a casual outfit. They automatically make every top have a simplified boho look.
You’re running late. What’s your go-to outfit?
Levis + white tee with layers of necklaces and a hat!
What are your three favourite places to shop in the city?
Okay, this is so hard. There are so many great spots in Vancouver!
What is the best piece you ever got on sale?
A Rag and Bone straw hat from the Nordstrom Warehouse Sale! $14.99.
How can our readers keep up with you online?
I would love to invite any of your readers to follow along on Instagram for live’ISH updates; my handle is @TobruckAve.
For our favorite travel stories and visual diaries, head over to the TobruckAve.com. Also, one of my favourite series we post about is the Top 5 Style Series, which highlights top trends, my favourite variations and where to shop them! Cant wait to see you on the digi.
All images by Brit Gill
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Our next Style Spotlight is a triple threat with a Juno-nomination and a face you’ve likely seen on TV.
Allow us to introduce you to Cory Lee.
Born and raised in Vancouver, Cory knew she had a passion for performing at a young age. At just 15-years-old, she was offered (but turned down) a spot in a girl group from Sony Hong Kong, which led her to another group before deciding to focus on her solo career. But music wasn’t her only passion, and acting brought Cory into roles on series like Degrassi: The Next Generation.
Now living in Toronto, Cory still acts and sings (you’ve gotta hear her cover of Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You), but is also highlighting her sporty, yet chic style on her blog The Fashion Set. We had the opportunity to talk to the sactress about what she loves about living in Toronto, her one and only style rule, and the best item she ever scored on sale.
Tell us a little about you and what you do.
I am an actress, singer and lifestyle blogger
Define your style in three words.
Eclectic, sporty and fun
What are some of your own style ‘rules’ that you like to live by?
No crocs.
Spill the beans. Looking back, what were some trends you wish you hadn’t worn (a.k.a. Your style regrets)?
I love looking back at all my style regrets lol
What’s an item in your closet that you can’t live without?
Denim or Nike joggers
You’re running late. What’s your go-to outfit?
All black baby
What is the best piece you ever got on sale?
I recently found a vintage Versace blazer at Value Village for 8.99. And I’m currently obsessed with my Moschino purse that I got for $350 from a Nordstrom Warehouse Sale!!
What are your three favourite places to shop in the city?
Black Market, Hudson’s Bay, and Oak and Fort
List the top 5 things about Toronto that you love.
The shopping, the food, the multiculturalism, the hustle and bustle and all my awesome friends!
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Our next Style Spotlight has made a name for herself as one of Toronto’s “it” girls.
Allow us to introduce you to Jaclyn Genovese.
While her fashion sense may be what caught the city’s attention, her brand Jacflash used to have a storefront on Queen St. West and a web series on Slice.ca, Genovese has proven that she has more than just great style.
She’s a business-savvy woman that has built a brand in not only retail, but interior design and events. Her weekly Monday night parties at Toronto hotspot Lost & Found always have line-ups (and notable guests like the Weeknd and Justin Bieber) and she’s designed apartments for celebrities like Raptors star Patrick Patterson, all while continuing to run her online clothing and accessory store Jacflash.
We had the opportunity to chat with her about her personal style and her one piece of fashion advice. Take a look at the interview below.
Image: Instagram/@JaclynGenovese
Define your style in 3 words.
Classically bold and feminine.
What are some of your own style ‘rules’ that you like to live by?
Less is more. I typically opt for a very simple look and then add a modern edge to it, or the opposite, a modern look and add a classic touch to it.
What are your ‘go-to’ shopping destinations?
www.jacflash.net, of course!
Do you have any favourite local designers?
I am always wearing “jacflash everything” 🙂
Image: Instagram/@JaclynGenovese
Where do you currently shop online?
I have not purchased something for myself other than my own clothing in years! Unless it is a unique vintage find at a market in LA or Europe.
If you could give style advice to your followers, what would it be?
Just keep experimenting! I am sure I have had endless fashion faux pas over the years, but I feel that I have now found what looks good on my body type (5’2″!) and what represents me best. Clean and classic is always in style and then you can add something bold as a finishing touch to complete your look and stand out from the rest.
Featured Image: Muffadal Abbas
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Our next Style Spotlight might be the city’s most eligible bachelor.
Allow us to introduce you to Mike Ward.
The Toronto-based Australian native is a sight for sore eyes, but it’s his resume that’ll really grab your attention. Not only is he a celebrity chef, he’s a food writer and photographer, too. His knowledge of the kitchen has gotten him gigs in some of Toronto’s most notable kitchens, writing for top publications, and most recently, hosting a weekly radio show with Sirius XM.
With a cookbook in the works, he’s certainly a busy man, but we had the opportunity to talk to him about the surprising place he shops for groceries, the one thing he’d like to see happen in Ontario, and more. Take a peek at the interview below.
Tell us about you and what you do!
I’m a chef and food journalist. Single father to two young lovely little princesses (who are adorable 95% of the time and little sh#%s the other 5). I’m also a passionate freedom fighter against boring food snobs… That includes people who treat bacon as a religion. I do, however, admit I occasionally eat things I probably shouldn’t between the hours of midnight and 1 am. But don’t we all?! I’m also host a weekly food radio show on SiriusXM called Devour and just signed a deal for my first cookbook… So as you might be able to predict, I’m sometimes tired and occasionally cranky.
Define your style in three words.
Whatever feels good.
If you could implement one change in your city, what would it be?
I’m fortunate to have seen most of the world, in fact, it’s shorter for me to list the countries I haven’t been to than the ones I have. So… I feel I can say, with some confidence, Toronto is truly one of the loveliest cities on earth. Growing up in Sydney, Australia, I’m certainly spoiled by a city’s aesthetic beauty. But what Toronto may lack in exceptional scenery, it gushes with in personality. It’s hard for me to find something I dislike… But if my arm was twisted, I would really love to see more liberal liquor laws, specifically in Ontario. It’s archaic to me that the alcohol industry is government controlled in 2017. We should be able to buy a six pack of beer or a great bottle of wine almost anywhere at anytime. We are adults.
Where is your go-to shopping destination in the city?
I could play the boring celebrity chef card and bullshit you now by telling you about my favourite farmers market, or a beautiful artisanal butcher, or cheese store I go to regularly, but the truth is, I’m just like you. I buy my groceries at whatever supermarket is closest. Yes, my passion is cooking, but it goes beyond that. I find true passion in creating dishes that are greater than the sum of their parts. For me, nothing is more fun than cracking a bottle of wine and making dinner for half a dozen good friends without spending a fortune. That, for me, is both fun and challenging. It’s not that I’m cheap, quite the contrary. But anybody can go and buy $30 steaks and $15 pieces of fish and turn it into a decent meal. It’s far more interesting to me to make things out of what’s abundant and accessible. I butt heads with a lot of chefs over this philosophy: a true craftsperson shouldn’t need the absolute best ingredients to create a mind blowing meal.
List the top five things about your city that you love!
I could easily tell you 20 things I love about Toronto, but there’s one I still find the most glorious. Until kinda recently, I was dating a woman that lived in New York, so I would spend a lot of time there. As much as people go gaga over that town, I found myself getting sick of it. Great for a long weekend, but it begins to feel like a city of caged rats. People in Toronto say hello, they acknowledge you. We walk around with our heads up. Toronto is a perfect example of a world class city.
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