I discover trends the same way I watch awards shows: I wait for the highlights.
There’s something I love about looking at runway pictures after the dust has settled — not to replicate what was on the catwalk, but because it gives me a preview of what we’ll start seeing on the racks a season later. A little heads up. A chance to think before I shop instead of reacting to whatever’s in front of me on the rack in March.
But here’s the thing I remind myself every single season: the right trend for you will feel like your closet has been waiting for it. Not like it requires five supporting purchases just to make it work. There’s a real difference between a trend that slots into your life and a trend that asks you to rebuild your wardrobe around it. The first one is worth exploring. The second one belongs in someone else’s closet.
This spring, I’m genuinely excited — which, as a minimal-ish dresser who owns 54 pieces of clothing, doesn’t happen every season. Here are the four trends I’m paying attention to, who they work for, and where to find them from great Canadian sources.
1. Indigo Denim
Image Source: Form Era
If I could own only one denim piece for the rest of my life, it would be an indigo, high-waisted, wide-leg pair. Not dark wash. Not light wash. Indigo — that deep, rich blue that reads almost like a colour rather than a neutral, but still works with practically everything in your closet.
Indigo denim is landing everywhere this spring, and it deserves the attention. It’s more elevated than a casual medium wash and more versatile than a fashion-forward coloured denim. It photographs beautifully, it transitions from day to evening without trying too hard, and it has that quality of looking intentional rather than default.
Who it works for: Almost everyone. If you already love a wide-leg or straight-leg silhouette, indigo is just an upgrade on what you’re already wearing. If you’ve been living in skinny denim and want to try something different, this is a forgiving place to start — the high waist gives you structure while the wider leg relaxes the whole look.
Canadian sources I love:
- Form Era — inclusive sizing, beautifully constructed
- Dutil — a denim specialist worth knowing about
- Givers and Takers — for something a little different
2. The Balloon Pant
Image Source: Le Bon Shoppe
If you already love barrel denim, the balloon pant is the natural next step for spring — and it’s more wearable than it sounds on paper.
The balloon pant is relaxed through the hip and thigh, tapering at the ankle, which creates a shape that’s actually flattering on more body types than you’d expect. Unlike a wide-leg that adds volume all the way down, the taper at the hem keeps things grounded. It’s not a straight silhouette. It’s not a wide leg. It’s something in between — and that in-between is where the interest lives.
Who it works for: If you’re an hourglass or pear shape and you’ve always avoided volume on the bottom, I’d encourage you to try this one before you dismiss it. The taper changes everything. It’s also a great option if you want to feel comfortable without looking like you’ve given up on the day.
Canadian sources to explore:
- Le Bon Shoppe options at Twenty Seven — my favourite shop when I’m out in the County
- Hoi Bo nylon blend — inclusive sizing, modern aesthetic
- Free People at Holts — if you want something with a bit more texture
3. The Pink Button-Down
Image Source: Simons
This one comes with a caveat — and it’s an important one.
If you are a Summer or Winter colour palette, the pink button-down is one of the best things you can do for your wardrobe this spring. Cool-toned pinks — dusty rose, soft mauve, clear bubblegum — do something for cool complexions that white simply cannot. They reflect warmth upward onto your face, brighten your eyes, and give you a freshness that white can sometimes wash out.
If you’re a Spring or Autumn, this trend isn’t for you in its current form — and that’s completely fine. Your season’s warm pinks (peach, coral, salmon) are the better choice, and they’ll land just as well.
Not sure what your colour palette is? That’s the most common answer I get. [Getting your colours done is a lot simpler than most people think, and it changes everything about the way you shop. →] [LINK TO BLOG 2]
Canadian sources for the pink button-down:
- Simons — great options at accessible price points [LINK]
- Left on Friday — a personal favourite for the cut and fabric [LINK]
- Jennifer Glasgow — the sleeves on this one are genuinely beautiful; also carries inclusive sizing [LINK]
4. The Funnel Neck
Image Source: Marigold
Funnels aren’t just for cakes this spring.
The funnel neck is having a moment — and it’s one I’m here for. It’s a clean, architectural alternative to the standard collar that works as both a standalone blouse and a layering piece under a coat. It reads as intentional and slightly fashion-forward without being difficult to wear. And unlike a turtleneck, it doesn’t add visual bulk to the neck area, which makes it more universally flattering.
The range this season is wide. You can find funnel necks in soft blouse fabric for an elevated casual look, in structured cotton for a more tailored feel, and in leather or leather-adjacent fabric for something genuinely statement-making.
Who it works for: It’s particularly good on rectangular or athletic body shapes, where the structured neckline adds interest without needing the piece to do a lot of fitting work. That said, I’ve seen it look fantastic across all body types — it really comes down to the fabric weight and how you style it.
Canadian sources to explore:
- Horses Atelier — always a gorgeous funnel blouse; this Toronto label does it beautifully [LINK]
- Marigold in Montreal — for something unique and thoughtfully designed [LINK]
- KOTN funnel neck jacket — easy, everyday, excellent quality [LINK]
- A Bronze Age — a more fashion-forward take if you want to make a statement [LINK]
- Aritzia leather version — stunning, and likely to sell out fast [LINK]
How to Know If a Trend Is Actually Yours
Before you add any of these to your cart, run them through this quick test:
1. Does it work with at least three things you already own? Not things you’re planning to buy. Things you own right now, in your closet, today. If you can’t picture three outfits immediately, the piece isn’t ready to come home yet.
2. Does it fit your colour story? A beautiful indigo jean in a cool blue won’t feel right in a wardrobe built on warm camel and rust. Know your tonal family before you shop.
3. Does it feel like you — or like someone else’s version of you? This is the most important question. Trends are just starting points. The version that actually belongs in your closet is the one that feels like it was already there.
If you want to think through what that actually looks like for your specific wardrobe, this is a good place to start. →
Spring is a great season. Make it yours.
S.C.
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