Smiley faces may be a rare thing in my What I Wore photos, but in this case I couldn’t hide how I felt. Nothing makes me happier than wearing and supporting exciting up-and-coming talent in Toronto. Perhaps this may come as a surprise to some but there is A LOT of talent in this city and it spans across so many different types of work.

One of my favourite parts about running GracieCarroll.com is getting to meet and build relationships with these talented Torontonians on a regular basis. In many cases, I’m fortunate enough to say that we have become great friends too.

In this case, I’ve actually known the designer of my dress – Paria Shirvani – since our days at Ryerson University’s School of Fashion, but it is only recently that she launched her namesake label. Perhaps you caught her runway debut at this past Toronto Fashion Week?

What’s great about Paria’s line is that she designs for women who have a love for fashion and design, but need to function in their clothing too. When I first tried on this dress I screamed: “It’s SO comfortable!!” If there was ever a dress that made you feel like you were wearing yoga wear, I think this it.

The necklace is by jewellery designer (and the photographer behind this photo) Michelle Ross. This talented woman was recently introduced to me by a mutual friend, and I can’t say enough good things about her incredible line. With the holiday season coming up there’s really no better time to stock up on new statement accessories for parties, or to gift family and friends. Michelle is having a holiday pop up sale starting today to December 1st, be sure to drop by to meet her and shop her great collection!

Michelle Ross Pop-Up, 1086 1/2 Queen Street West November 27th-December 1st.

See you there!

xo