Staying warm in winter and looking your best is not an easy feat, especially when you live in Montréal. But I was up to the challenge!

I teamed up with a few local and national brands to create a Top 5 shopping guide for the upcoming Valentine’s Day and bring you some lovely fashion staples. You will want to add these items to your shopping list right away — whether you are buying them for someone you love or looking to treat yourself.

So let’s escape into the world of fashion, beauty and, most importantly, good pizza.

Mably vest by RUDSAK

Let’s talk about this incredible blazer. Even though it’s long, this is by far the lightest and warmest blazer that I have worn to-date. The glossy goat fur on the pockets not only keeps your hands warm but doesn’t shed, and the luxurious wool blend of the base keeps you warm and stylish for the cold days ahead.

Stackable rings and bracelets with precious gems by Assaleh

Stacking is the new black. These incredible weightless jewels can be found at Assaleh’s Mont Royal store where local and worldwide brands come together. Shiny topaz rings will make you feel like a million dollars.

Macau vest by RUDSAK

What better way to stay warm this winter than with this phenomenal rabbit fur neck vest? Its loose-fitting quality will keep you comfortable, yet cozy. Whether on a coffee date or on an evening night out, this vest is available in two different colours. Its loose fit can also be adjusted with leather straps at the waistline.

Maverick Aviators by Park + Finch Eyewear

Keeping your eyes protected is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer. The hottest brand in Montréal right now has a lot to offer for a very affordable price. Stylish design, free shipping, excellent clarity and UV protection is what PARK + FINCH is all about.

Sorano scarf by RUDSAK

Whether you wear it over the shoulder or over your hair, this piece comes in five different colours and is perfect for every occasion. The tight-knit wool keeps you warm and cozy, while the raccoon fur trim will add to the effortless chic. With the crazy wind gusts of winter, you are guaranteed to stay warm and fabulous.

Happy shopping!

FAJO would like to thank KESTÉ Restaurant for providing the location for this photoshoot. Located in the heart of the Mile End, Montréal, KESTÉ brings Italian flavour to this wonderful and lively area, with its authentic Neapolitan cuisine specialties in a cozy and easygoing environment.

Chef Gianluca was born and raised in Naples, Italy— a city full of life, culture and, above all: a passion for food. This passion is where his professional and cultural growth began, and it became the guiding factor in his career of becoming a chef. He studied at Istituto d’istruzione alberghiero Aldo Moro, a renowned cooking school in Naples, and has worked in France, New York and London. He met his wife, who is Canadian, in the U.K. and moved with her to Montréal, where he worked as a caterer, cooking teacher and a personal chef, before partnering with a few great men to become the present owner and head chef of KESTÉ. His new adventure has just begun!

For reservations, call 514-509-1341. You can also follow KESTÉ on Facebook or Instagram.