Vancity Chic in New Westminster, Vancouver
by Samriddhi, Miss Teen Lower Mainland 2017
Photos by Shubhi Singh
If I were to describe Vancouver’s style in one word, I would say EXOTIC. Everyone has their own style here, which makes them unique in their own way. These personalities and identities end up becoming exotic because of the diversity shown, even in the clothing. When I go out to the streets of New Westminster, I see people who are genuinely happy in their style and don’t care about other’s opinions. I believe that everyone should be entitled to dress however they like and make the most of it. Once again, the Vancouver crowd didn’t fail to surprise me with their unique styles. Let’s take a look at these unique styles found on the street of Quayside Dr, New Westminster.
High school students have some of the most different styles ever. This fresh out of high school student, Darien, explains his style: “‘As a dancer, I pride myself with my ability to dress appropriately for any given circumstance and being able to do so, has given me a certain style, a casual yet fancy style. As I go throughout my days I often like to dress-to-impress, since it’s a small world and you never know who you’re going to meet or see again’”. Now let’s dabble a little as to where this future P.E/History teacher buys his clothes from. These cool black cargo joggers are made by Urban Heritage and can be purchased at Urban Planet for only $34.99! Sometimes simple things are the best, just like this simple white t-shirt from Divided, which can also be purchased at Urban Planet for $9.99. Decked with Denim, Darien is rocking a DNKY Jeans blue button-up shirt, purchased from the bay for just $14.99. To complete his look, Darien chooses his favourite white converse from Converse All Stars, which can be found at Journeys for $85.
Jasmeet is a 21 year old who wants to focus her career in HR Management. She’s outgoing, bubbly and never fails to crack a smile on your face. Jasmeet is an extrovert who loves debating about anything and everything. On an average day, you can find Jasmeet at school, working, hanging out with her closest friends or giving cuddles to her dog, Dana. “‘I’m a stylish storm in a teacup’” says Jasmeet as she is only 5 ft tall. This beauty is wearing a snazzy peachy top from Glo Boutique which she got for $15. Those silky black chiffon pants are only $34 and are also from Glo Boutique. Sounds like an amazing place to get stylish and trendy clothing! These colourful heels are the definition of ‘Chic’! You can get your own funky pair of heels at La Chateau for only $69.99.
When people discuss animals, Ketki is always there to liven up the party with fun facts and cute animal talk. This fellow dog lover is only 22 and is in the 2nd year of her Ecological Restoration program. “‘I believe in staying classy and elegant and let yourself stand out with your simplicity. I think that inner beauty of a person maters more than the outer appearances. The substance of your personality makes you, YOU. So, stay simple, have faith, love nature and stay beautiful.’” Ketki is sporting plum shaded George jeggings, which she got from Walmart for only $15. Her adorable black top comes from Old Navy, priced at $25. If you love the heels she’s wearing, just like me, be sure to check out Ardene for these $20 beauties. While you’re at Ardene, might at was take a look at the dream-catcher pendant she got for only $15!
Samantha was born and brought up in China. This 27 year old moved here when she was in grade 11. Samantha just graduated with her HR degree and is currently working as a HR Assistant. Her grandfather is where she gets her discipline and structure from as he is an ex military man. She gets her style and fashion sense from her mom. Samantha is a confident woman who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. “‘I live a life of glamour and class’”. Sam is killing it in the royal blue, cotton crop top from A&F. Her baby pink, chiffon skirt is for $150 from Aritzia. Samantha’s gorgeous white heels are from Valentino; she got them for $995!
Vancity is full of culture, elegance, beauty and uniqueness! I not only got to know about the unique styles of these amazing people, I got to know their unique lives too. Vancouver’s Street Chic is amazing at showcasing diversity and the community.
I saw Gorete’s style and couldn’t help but run over and ask her about what she was wearing. Gorete is a counselor. She loves to stand out and look unique. Her style is very colourful and she likes to mix and match different outfits, shoes and jewelry. Gorete was wearing a stunning white lacy dress, pink shoes with a rainbow heel and a matching pink handbag. She also wore a very nice stone necklace and earrings.
I was so amazed when I saw Ira at how she made a pair of old ripped jeans look so classy! Ira is a technical designer. She describes her style as “boho meets off duty rockstar.” She also loves to stand out, but likes to keep things more comfortable. Ira wore a loose and very light weight orange and white shirt that tied up at the front. She paired it with black ripped jeans and faux alligator skin and leather black shoes with bright orange socks. She also held a faux alligator skin purse. She bought all of her clothes in Montreal.
I loved Kelly’s style so much I couldn’t help but ask her about it. Although Kelly’s outfit looks very classy and expensive, she actually created most of her outfit from hand-me-downs, so some of it is unknown. Kelly wore a beautiful sheer white dress that buttoned up and tied up at the front. She got this as a hand me down from her step mother. She is also wearing black sandals and carrying a black leather handbag. Kelly describes her style as preppy but feminine. Kelly’s look is perfect for any setting and any occasion.
My name is Genavieve. I am 17 years old and have been crowned Miss Teenage Manitoba 2017. I am going into Grade 12 at Glenlawn Collegiate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I hope to go into forensic psychology and one day become an RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) officer. I want to make a difference in the world in everything I do, so I thought that this would be the best career for me. I am currently working at a spa in Winnipeg as a skin health sales associate and have also worked in different clothing stores because it is very important for me to ensure that people always feel their best and I want to empower people to feel confident in themselves and to embrace their individual unique qualities. I would describe my style as sometimes sporty and sometimes preppy.
One of Julia’s favourite go-to looks is a $45 simple white tube top from Aritzia and a pair of $67 stylishly ripped light wash American Eagle jeans. She’s paired this look with ($25) 3” chunky heeled sandals from Walmart and a $35 matching black cross shoulder bag from Garage. This edgy and inexpensive look never fails to get Julia feeling ready to take on whatever the day will hold.
Another look you can find Julia in frequently is this beautifully feminine $25 pastel pink wraparound dress. Tying the dress in the front with a bow completes the look and provides a fun and flirty feeling. It was purchased from Winners for $25. Pairing this dress with $80 white converse gives this dress a relaxed and casual vibe.
Sarah enjoys dressing it up with a stylish $45 white v-neck bodysuit from Aritzia, as well as a bright red $35 pencil skirt purchased from the same store. The bright colours in this look give Sarah the perfect summer style. She completed the look with some beautiful blue $40 heeled sandals purchased from Lulus.
This last look is classy and perfect for any summer outing. The $45 black off the shoulder shirt from Dynamite is dotted with a white and pink flowers print and has a looser fit to keep you cooler longer in the hot Calgarian sun. The sleeves on the shirt are complete with a slit running down the outer arm. Julia paired this look with $67 blue jeans from American Eagle, and some fashion forward $75 loafer style shoes from Aldo. She worked the same black bag into this new look, which proves just how versatile fashion can be.