“I would describe my personal style as eclectic. My job is so diverse that everyday is different. Some days I’m preppy, then I’m sporty or boho. It all depends on what I’m doing, how I’m feeling and who I’m seeing.” But that doesn’t mean she’s stockpiling. “As a working mom, I’ve had to reorganize my fashion life and stay focused on what functions in my closet.”
Charlotte Jenkins is back to work after spending a year at home with Lily (who’s now a busy toddler). She underwent all the tectonic shifts that a new baby presents but what’s particular to her experience, is how her wardrobe evolved. A personal shopper and buyer for Toronto-based men’s and women’s retailer Gotstyle, she approaches what’s on rotation in her closet like an accountant tackles a spreadsheet or a chef masters the kitchen. “I live in a condo and don’t have a huge closet, so I had to re-prioritize what’s within reach. I packed away anything that was out of season, that doesn’t fit or that I don’t wear everyday like heels and gowns,” she says. “I treat my closet like a retail store—buy now, wear now. In other words, everything in my closet I can wear this minute. This means doing a seasonal flip four times a year but that’s worth it knowing that every morning I can get dressed in minutes.”
“I still love shopping, but I’m more obsessed with real life,” says Charlotte. “I literally can’t wear half of my old clothes anymore. Now I’m looking for function first instead of fashion first. I used to wear off-the-shoulder this and strapless that. That’s impossible because those styles don’t work when I lift the carseat out. I have to be able to push a stroller or go to the park. I don’t want to limit myself from experiences in life because I didn’t wear the right shoes.”
HER 5 DAYS OF MUST-HAVES
WORK: THE STRETCHY PENCIL SKIRT
“Often I’m on the sales floor and when I’m in our location that caters to professionals, I can’t wear jeans when I’m selling a suit that’s worth thousands of dollars.” Her consulting look is polished but never too sexy so the customer (and his girlfriend/wife/SO) stay focused on his new wardrobe. She likes a pencil skirt with a bit of stretch in a fabric that never has to be ironed and her pumps are nude, a classic styling trick that visually elongates legs. Skirt, Malene Birger; shirt, Velvet; and shoes, Tiger Sweden.
THE PLAYGROUND: THE SKINNY OVERALL
“The great thing about stretch denim overalls is that when you bend over to get into the sand or build blocks, no one sees your butt. I like a style that’s really stretchy and with pockets for my phone and they have to be tight. The baggy styles aren’t feminine or flattering enough for me.” Overalls, Paige; sweatshirt, South Parade; sneakers, Nike
WEEKEND: THE GIRLFRIEND JEAN
Unlike the boyfriend jean, the GF cut skims the butt and only goes wider once it’s past the hip, a shape that won’t make your middle look so square. Her head-to-toe styling hack? Wear it with something slim on top (like a body suit or a small cropped tee like she’s wearing here) to maintain a feminine shape that won’t hide your waist. “I’ll wear this look to brunch or even for a more casual day at work.” Girlfriend jeans, Revolve; top, Cheap Monday; and loafers, Sam Edelman
ANYTIME: THE ROCKER TEE + SKINNY JEANS
“My current uniform is premium denim and cropped, rock tees. I’m just obsessed with denim, then I’ll throw on a blazer and heels to see a vendor or a leather jacket and sneakers to have dinner with friends.” She prefers men’s t-shirts that she cuts and crops at the hem and at the sleeves. “I wear less v-neck t-shirts than I used to. Since having a baby, my boobs got bigger and I don’t want them to all hang out.” Pharoah jeans (cut high-waisted and curvy), DL 1961; vintage jacket, Lee; t-shirt, John Varvatos for men; boots, Sam Edelman
DATE NIGHT: THE LADY SUIT
“I’m a big fan of the pant suit. I’ve been dressing men for so long, that I love the idea of a tailored suit for my own wardrobe.” Her favourite brand is Tiger Sweden because you can purchase a different size for your top than your bottom so she can score the perfect all over fit. “And while you’re out, try not to put your hands in your pockets. You’ll ruin the look and the line of the suit.” When she knows she’s going out right after work and baby’s bed time, she’ll style her hair in a top knot that lasts from morning to night. Suit, Tiger Sweden; Choker, Jenny Bird; clutch, Ela Handbags
EVERY ACCESSORY HAS ITS PURPOSE TOO
“Every bag I have has a cross body strap so my hands are free to help Lily.” Bucket bag, Opelle
“This bag fits more than you think. I can squeeze in diapers, wipes, my wallet and snacks for a quick outing.” Shoulder bag, Opelle
“There’s something to be said for investing in a bold necklace. Just add a t-shirt and leather pants or jeans and you’re ready-to-go.” Necklace, Armed Jewelry
“I wear a lot of hats because I don’t always have time to do my hair.” We hear you sister. Packable straw hat, Brixton
She relies on a faux-leather baseball hat that won’t get ruined when it’s wet on rainy days. Smart, huh? Cap, Wilfred Free/Aritzia
