The weather has been temperamental lately, to the point where we can’t tell if we’re on summer’s last legs or if monsoon season has officially set in (we know Toronto doesn’t have monsoon season, but we also typically don’t have many earthquakes or tornadoes, either). In anticipation of the next great storm, we found this YMC jacket at Woodlawn that we think is appropriate for both men and women, made from waterproof coated cotton and fastened with wood toggles. There’s no easier way to pretend we’re in The Umbrellas of Cherbourg. $245.
Woodlawn, 1491 Dundas St. W., 416-551-8000, woodlawnshop.com.
Black is always in style, but espresso is the colour for handbags this fall (that means there’s a brown undertone, like hair with lowlights). We know it isn’t fall yet (we’ve been outside), but during our endless hours of shopping, it has become clear that fall and pre-fall items are slowly creeping into stores, like the worst kind of autumnal tease (oh, and since we’re still sweating the summer, there’s a good chance a 50 to 70 per cent off summer sale is within throwing distance).
These Jeffrey Campbell Douma sandals might look plain-Jane from an aerial view, but we love the wedge-meets-platform profile, which is one of this summer’s hottest trends. Those looking for comfortable footwear need look no further, because Doumas are not only wrapped in soft suede, but they also have only a slight arch, which is why it feels more like a flat, even though ladies who take these for a spin will be at least three inches off the ground. Women interested in a bit of height can join the Douma club, and for everyone else there’s, um, Birkenstocks. $115.
Originating in Scotland back in the 12th century, tartan plaid was traditionally made locally for clans from different areas across the country. The pattern has since evolved from the classic tartan used for kilts and blankets, making its way into the mainstream with variations like 
American Psycho’s Patrick Bateman (played by Christian Bale) once 
At this point in 
Henry Holland is known for dressing London’s 
Cheap, wasteful umbrellas are a dime a dozen in Toronto, and we can’t count how many times we’ve hastily purchased a $10 option when caught unexpectedly in a downpour. Then, like most people who frequent the PATH on their morning commute, we came across Raindrops, and we were dumbfounded by the selection of high-end umbrellas. Our favourite was a sturdy, stark black option with Swarovski crystal embellishments, by Italian umbrella maker Pasotti. This version of the ultimate spring essential tweaks some of the traditional aspects of umbrellas, with design details like an engraved steel handle and a fully lined canopy to ensure the umbrella won’t turn inside out or blow away, with or without a kung fu grip. $295.
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