Spring Commuter Style

As I recently graduated from college, I have been looking for my next adventure (aka my next industry job) a step in the direction of the career I want to build in Marketing. Looking for jobs is no easy feat just listen to the rants of my fellow graduates who have been doing part time jobs not related to what they went to school for but anything goes when you're a broke millennial... 

Thankfully I recently landed a part-time marketing job but unfortunately this job is an hour commute from where I live. As much as I would love to wear pretty heels and dresses that can go from day to night the reality of commuting is you need to dress for comfort. When you're sitting in the subway or bus more than likely you will be exposed to the elements for example on a windy day standing 15 minutes on an open air bus station in a little wool coat in Toronto will definitely make you a popsicle in no time. 

Here is a few tips and tricks I learned along the way from being a commuter and still dressing fashionably and office appropriate:

First things first long commutes mean you will have to carry a little bit more than usual as you will need to carry snacks and entertainment such as books or tablets so as not to stare into the eyes of your fellow commuters and generally just to make time go just a little bit faster. In this case you will need a bag that is big enough for all your essentials and also maybe a change of shoes if you feel like donning heels when indoors. My favourites is the good ole trusty tote bag with long enough straps to ensure it slings properly to your shoulder and also a softer and preferably slightly thicker strap to distribute the weight because you know you're gonna be carrying at least 10-15 lbs with all your knick knacks packed in. 
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Lululemon Go Getter Bag 26L $148

This bag by Lululemon has a large 26L capacity for all your junk and also has a lot of different compartments and pockets for all your necessities your trusted MacBook. 

Comfy shoes is the next step to walking up and down staircases and transferring from buses or even running to make sure you can catch your next train. As much as I love sneakers on weekends there is just something off putting about wearing sneakers with dress pants or skirts. I prefer to choose flats that have arch support and decent rubber grips that would make walking much more comfortable specially during the rush hour. Loafers are definitely the trendy choice for footwear recently and with good reason most of them give better are support than ballet flats of the early 2000's and also the shape works quite well with the straight and wide leg pants alike which are in most people's wardrobe these days.  This specific ones are very similar to the Gucci Brixton but at a fraction of the price. 

Little Burgundy Marilyn Black Shoe $165

The next on my list is definitely smart dress pants or slack. As much as I like dresses in the summer time it is still a bit too chilly to wear them without thick tights. Right now i have a few favourite styles from Banana Republic that I have been rotating in my wardrobe. Both of them are super comfortable and dont wrinkle easily which is a plus when you're sitting for extended periods of time. 

Banana Republic Ryan Pant $124

Blazers and cardigans have also been my go to. Its always cooler than I anticipate in the office and having another layer instead of draping myself in a large shapeless scarf is more Professional looking.

Zara Tweed Blazer with Trim $149

A classic coat is another must. As I'm typing this blog it is currently -2 degrees in Toronto. I've been relying on my black parka from rudsak to get me thru these last few days of cold. But im planning to start transitioning towards a trench coat soon and these two styles are ones I have my eye on to look polished and professional. 

Aritzia Babaton Oliver Trench Coat $295

Zara Hooded Trench Coat $149

Who say's commuters can't  be as chic and fashionable. One of the things I enjoy about living in the city is the easy availability of transit. With the cost of car ownership quite high specially in busy cities like toronto making sure you travel in comfort is a must.