It’s my distinct pleasure and privilege to introduce you to my latest Real Style subject, the absolutely lovely Carrie MacPherson. The charming and fashionable voice behind one of my favourite blogs, Eat Drink & Be Carrie, she’s one of the most in-the-know Montrealers. Not only is she a favourite resource for all things fabulous, I also count myself lucky to call her a friend. From planning and executing an impeccable dinner party, to knowing just where to scoop up gorgeous gowns and goodies, Carrie is a wealth of knowledge and loves to share it all on her site and Instagram. Wonderfully feminine with a contemporary edge, she wears a ballgown as well as she does skinny jeans and a blazer. With her constant companion Dapper the schnauzer (quite perfectly named in fact, you can check out his delightful Instagram account here) by her side, you can find Carrie galavanting through Montreal or planning her next overseas adventure.
How would you describe your personal style?
Elegant yet edgy
Who are your style icons?
Marlene Dietrich, Tilda Swinton
What are your favourite brands/designers?
I’ve always been a fan of YSL, the original designer and the fashion house. This year though, I found myself most drawn to the collections designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior. I am attracted to designs that celebrate an assertive yet elegant woman. And my current favourite Canadian designers/labels are: Greta Constantine, Lucian Matis and Leinad Beaudet.
Where do you love to shop in Montreal?
I like to support local designers, so I tend to reach out to them directly. I recently purchased a pair of culottes from Eliza Faulkner. If I had an unlimited budget, I would shop at Cahier d’Exercises in Old Montreal or Want the Apothecary in Westmount. I also get a great deal of enjoyment from finding rare vintage pieces at local thrift stores like Fripe Prix Renaissance. I will always have a weakness for Winners, but I never go with the intention of actually finding anything although I always do.
Are there any trends for Fall/Winter that you’re excited about?
I love layering, warm and cozy knits and anything grey.
What trends or style do you wish would just go away?
Ripped jeans and crop tops. I was ripping my own jeans wen I was 15-16. I’m 45 now so “been there done that” and definitely don’t need to show off my midriff.
Do you have a signature look?
Not really. Although, I do feel at my best in an evening gown.
What’s at the top of your shopping wish list?
Chunky sweaters and a new pair of dressy winter boots.
You have 48 hours to spend in Montreal, what do you do?
Hike up the mountain, have lunch at the bar at Dominion Square, spend an afternoon at Bota Bota, cocktails at Le Cloakroom or Mayfair, dinner at L’Express, brunch at Christian Faure in the Old Port, shopping on St. Paul street (Galerie LeRoyer, SSENSE, CAHIER d’EXERCISES, Espace Pepin and Maison Pepin, Édition boutique) with a pit stop at Le Petit Dep for coffee or at the window of Flyjin Café. I would also head to St-Viateur street for fresh bagels and an espresso macchiato at the Italian Social Club. If I still had time, I would visit the Jean Talon market where I would buy some maple cotton candy at Le Marché des Saveurs du Québec.
