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Our editors have been busy testing the best clothing brands in Canada and beyond to determine which of their best-selling styles are truly worth the investment. We’ve covered KOTN, lululemon, Frank & Oak, Aritzia, Reformation, Everlane and Sezane. Each brand left us feeling impressed and wanting more.
Oat + Fort has been at the top of my list for many years — a Canadian brand with thoughtfully designed, modern pieces at affordable price points. Think high fashion without the price tag.
I put some of their best-selling fall and winter pieces to the test, ranking them below in my most to least favourite. If you like any of the styles below — act fast! — there’s an additional 20 per cent off sale items at the time of publishing.
Ranking my favourite Oat + Fort styles
- Vegan Suede Blazer
- Oversized Crewneck Sweater
- Vegan Leather Tote Bag
- Puffer Jacket – Puffer Studio 001
- Crossover Waist Wide Leg Pant
- Oversized Button Front Sweater Vest
Details on my Oat + Fort rankings
Vegan Suede Blazer
Why it’s my favourite: I mean — just look at it. If your Instagram algorithm is anything like mine, this jacket (and many other similar, less attractive dupes) has flooded my feed for the better part of the season. The rumours are true — it’s perfection. This versatile layering piece can be worn all year long over trousers, jeans or midi skirts, to fancy dinners, music festivals or casually over a tracksuit. Essentially, anywhere and with just about anything. It fits oversized, so size down for a more fitted look. I’m a medium and stuck with my regular sizing; the fit was exactly what I was looking for.
Price: $168
Material: 100% polyester
Sizes: XS-XL
Rating: 10/10
Oversized Crewneck Sweater
Why it’s my second favourite: I fell in love with this sweater because the colour is completely out of my typical palette (yep, I’m a neutral gal), but I continue to reach for it because of how cozy it is. I opted for the S/M, which is just the right amount of oversized (I’m a size 8). The ribbed trim and dropped shoulders are little details I appreciate, and the classic crew neckline will keep this piece in my rotation for years. The Imperial Blue colourway is currently out of stock, but the Stucco was a close second for me. As this is currently low in stock, try the Chunky Knit Crewneck Sweater as an alternative.
Price: $58 (currently on sale from $88)
Material: 59% recycled polyester, 22% nylon, 10% polyester, 8% wool, 1% spandex
Sizes: XXS-XL
Rating: 9/10
Vegan Leather Tote Bag
Why it’s my third favourite: Simple, slouchy and slim. This tote fits my laptop and all accoutrements; it’s low profile and clean. The pebbled finish and vegan leather make it look more expensive (in a good way). I opted for the Sandstone colourway but love all of the muted colours and may double dip with the Latte next.
Price: $58
Material: 60% polyurethane, 40% polyester
Sizes: O/S
Rating: 8/10
Puffer Jacket – Puffer Studio 001
Why it’s my fourth favourite: The oversized puffer has been a lasting trend this season. Coming in at only $104 (it’s currently on sale from $208), this is a steal of a deal you won’t find elsewhere. The jacket is made with 700 fill RDS-certified duck down that’s super lightweight and temperature-rated to -20 C to -30 C — perfect for Canadian winters. It’s water-resistant but don’t try wearing it in the rain. The large front pockets allow me to leave my bag at home, and the high neckline keeps me warm while looking cool. It’s super oversized, so size down — I’m wearing a small.
Price: $104 (currently on sale from $208)
Material: 100% nylon | Lining: 100% nylon | Rib: 80% nylon, 20% elastane | Filling: 90% duck down, 10% duck feathers
Sizes: XXS-L
Rating: 7/10
Crossover Waist Wide Leg Pant
Why it’s my fifth favourite: I love a menswear moment. Wide leg trousers are fun and edgy yet put together and excellent for business or business casual events or meetings. I love the asymmetric high-rise waist, which puts a modern spin on the classic trouser. Dress them down with sneakers and a crewneck sweatshirt for a day on the town. As these are currently low in stock, try the Wide Leg Trouser as an alternative.
Price: $62 (currently on sale from $88)
Material: 98% polyester, 2% spandex
Sizes: 0-12
Rating: 7/10
Oversized Button Front Sweater Vest
Why it’s my sixth favourite: I wasn’t sure if I’m a vest person, and to be honest, I’m still not sure. I have very stylish friends who wear sweater vests and I thought I could too. After testing this piece, I’m not totally convinced, but I love how warm it keeps me and adds nice texture when layered over a collared shirt. It has a relaxed fit, ribbed trim and could be worn over a t-shirt as the weather warms up. As this is currently low in stock, try the Button Front Knit Vest as an alternative.
Price: $58 (currently on sale from $68)
Material: 48% polyester, 36% recycled polyester, 14% acrylic, 2% spandex
Sizes: XXS-XL
Rating: 7/10
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ltaveroff@postmedia.com