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by Alice Assad
As we know, Valentine’s Day has slowly creeped up, and with it comes the pressure to plan something expensive and “perfect”. Let's be real, most of us can’t (and don’t want to) drop serious money on Valentine’s day. That’s why I am here to help you out! Whether this is for your significant other, Galentines, or any other gathering, I have got you covered. Here are some budget-friendly date ideas to make your Valentine's Day feel expensive without the financial burden.
I hope these ideas gave you some inspiration on how to spend your love-filled evening. Valentine's Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. Get creative, keep it simple, and focus on who you’re spending it with, not how much you’re spending.
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by Cole Vosburgh
Entering a new year is often accompanied by the personal reflection on our goals, achievements, and identity. Year after year, we face pressure to reshape and reinvent ourselves into a slightly improved version. We adjust our habits, our attitudes, our actions, and often our appearances in an effort to better align ourselves with this idealized version we conjured up. We ask ourselves: am I who I want to be? Who am I actually supposed to be? How do others perceive me? Do I want them to perceive me this way? One of the most visible ways we can signal these changes is in our style. Clothing then becomes something more than just functional; it becomes personal; a reflection of who we are and the changes we are going through. As a result, many people enter the new year asking, “how can I find my style?” Although this question seems straightforward, it carries the incorrect assumption that personal style is fixed and is an end goal that we can achieve. Rather, it is something that grows and changes alongside us. Why finding your style often feels urgent (The pitfall of “aesthetics”) The idea that we should all be working towards finding and defining our personal style doesn’t come from nowhere. We live in a culture that values labels, clarity, and people who appear self-assured. Especially in online spaces, style is presented as something that comes in a neatly wrapped box and falls under a specifically-named aesthetic. These aesthetics are prepackaged sets of signifiers, colours, silhouettes, and brands that communicate a specific identity about those who follow it. Framing style in this way makes it appear to be less of a journey and more of a destination, as once we find the right aesthetic for us, we can rest easy. Instead of engaging in thoughtful self-expression, we are pushed towards consumption; buying the clothes we are told are required to dress a certain way. This mindset reduces identity into something that has to be purchased, and personal style becomes less about self-expression and more about performance. Style as a reflection of growth The main flaw with the modern approach of finding your style is that it completely ignores how style is formed. Style doesn’t just sit around waiting for us to discover it; it’s formed and earned gradually across our lived experiences. It is shaped by how we spend our time, what we value, and the world around us. Our priorities, environments, and inspirations are always shifting, and therefore, style is too. It evolves alongside us, reflecting who we are at different moments in time, never remaining fully static. Many of the most stylish people throughout history didn’t hunt for their signature looks. Instead, they dressed in clothes that were conducive to their routine and environments, allowing practicality and surroundings to guide their choices. Over time, those choices came together to form something cohesive – an authentic and personal style. Communities also have a unique way of impacting our style. Subcultures and social groups often use style as a way to communicate shared values, beliefs, and identity. In these spaces, clothing carries meaning and a sense of belonging. Again, these are where the modern approach falls short. TikTok and Pinterest tell you that style can be found through imitation and copying. While it can be a valuable source of inspiration, relying on these outlets alone removes all the context and meaning from style and pushes for performance over authenticity. My Advice Get off your phone, go out into the world, and make memories. The more you engage with people, places, and things you love, the more clarity you will have about who you are. This understanding of oneself will naturally show up in the way you dress. Instead of asking what your style is, replace the question entirely. Here are a few questions to get you thinking in the right direction: - Why do I dress the way I do? - What do I want to communicate about myself in my clothing? - What pieces support my day-to-day life? - What inspires me beyond a screen? - What do I feel most like myself wearing?  The holidays are coming, and with that, a wave of nostalgia. Whether it's your 1st or 20th Christmas here in Calgary, there is something for everyone to do. One such activity is The Enchanted Forest at the Southcentre Mall. And along with that, a variety of cozy and playful outfits.   NOSTALGIA: What The Enchanted Forest Means To Me As someone who grew up in Calgary, I can say for sure that there are many Christmas events and celebrations. But for me, the Enchanted Forest at Southcentre remains the most special. Southcentre was not the fanciest, but it was the closest to home. As a result, it became a tradition to go every year. Family tradition, at least for Christmas, was something my parents built for themselves after moving to Canada. I did not have the typical experience compared to others, but it was memorable nonetheless. My memories included Christmas at home, but my grand Christmas adventures usually happened outside in the city. Although I have had experiences, such as the Polar Express, they were not always convenient, given the cost and other factors. However, experiences like The Enchanted Forest have proven time and time again to be accessible and fun, whether you are going with your friends or family. NOSTALGIA: The Cookie Kitchen (A Bonus Activity) This is not a part of The Enchanted Forest, but it is one of the other fun things to do at the mall. You get a gingerbread cookie and toppings, and the rest is up to your imagination!  This is a great activity to do with friends and family. The best part is that you can release your creativity and inner child! OUTFITS (Finally!) Finally! Moving on to the main topic. What should you wear? Honestly speaking, anything that you feel comfortable in. But if you are looking for inspo, I recommend reliving your childhood through your clothes. What does that mean? I have two words: pyjamas and costumes! Pyjamas The holidays are cozy, so dress cozy! Cute PJs, fuzzy socks, anything works. As a bonus, you can be warmer in the dreaded Calgarian cold.  Costumes Wear that costume! Get those photos! Will most people be in costumes? No, but it's okay to stand out. Have fun and make those memories. Fun ideas include having your friend group wear reindeer or elf headbands ;)  Closing Note
Most importantly, have fun! Exams and final assignments are not for the weak! Take a break, and if you can, check out The Enchanted Forest! Alice Assad One thing is for certain: fall is now officially over and it's time to face the brutal winter. I have lived in Calgary for about 4 years and have only now mastered the importance of layering. I think back to my first winter here and how I wished there was something to show me how to layer. Well, let me save you my first year worries and allow me to guide you to the perfect, curated template. Step #1: The importance of an underlayer A really big mistake I committed in my first year of living here was just thinking a huge winter coat would keep me warm. However that is simply not true. It took time but I finally learned that a simple puffer will NOT suffice in Calgary weather. So here are my favourite pieces and recommendations to wear under clothes.
 2. Another incredibly important underlayer is an undershirt. Now, I know once winter comes, all we want to do is throw on a hoodie and call it a day. That might suffice in fall time but not anymore. It is crucial to wear an undershirt under hoodies and sweaters for that extra layer of protection. Here are some of my favourite pieces.
 Step #2: Outer layers Now that we have gotten our base layer covered, it is important that we move on to our outer layer. I have had my fair share of jackets throughout my life; however, prior to Calgary, I never had to deal with -30 degree weather, therefore I did not know what jackets would keep me truly warm. Luckily, I have found the jacket for you. The Aritzia Superpuff: a yes. I’m sure you have seen everyone raving about these jackets and I’m here to tell you it is 100% WORTH THE HYPE. With its premium goose down insulation, it can keep you warm in -30 degree weather. I absolutely adore my Superpuff; it has faced some challenging winters but never fails to keep me warm.  Step #3: Accessories Alright, now that we covered how to stay warm, it is time for accessories!! Just because the weather is -30 degrees does not mean we can’t still look cute. Here are some of my recommendations on how to turn a depressing cold Canadian winter day into a stylish, (somewhat) warm day.  References
UNIQLO. (n.d.). Women’s HEATTECH. https://www.uniqlo.com/ca/en/special-feature/heattech/women?gclsrc=aw.ds&utm_campaign={campaign}&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=heattech Aritzia. (n.d.). The Super Puff™ Guide. https://www.aritzia.com/en/super-puff-guide Alice Assad Summer’s curtain has closed, but style season is far from over. Fall 2025 breaks the mould, shedding microtrends in favour of individuality. The air’s colder, but fashion’s hotter, as designers embrace bold contrast and personal expression over perfection. Overview Fall 2025 is about wearing trends your way. Designers like Chloe and Miu Miu are rewriting what “effortless” means: layered button-downs under cropped jackets, sharp pencil skirts paired with varsity bombers, and corduroy trousers that actually look sleek. It's less about perfection and more about personality. Textures Texture rules the season: fringe, tassels, suede, and lace are everywhere. The “quiet luxury” era is fading, replaced by something more tactical and expensive. Think monochrome brown, bohemian layers, and hits of punk with leather Pop of colour If you thought fall meant muted tones, surprise, it’s a technicolour takeover. A pop of red anchors confidence, while icy blue, electric green, and bold purple cut through the gray skies. Who said fall had to be boring?
Academia Although the return of fall means getting back into a routine, whether it be work or school. Designers are loving the “desk to dinner” look and so should you. No more changing in the office before dinner plans. Clean blazers, tailored trousers and pleated skirts make the transition seamless.  Where to shop I know what you’re thinking, designers look great, but who can actually afford them? The good news: Fall 2025 isn't about labels, it's about creativity. Skip the splurge and hit your local thrift store, or dig through your mom’s closet for those vintage corduroy pants. This season proves you don't need a runway budget to look runway ready, it's all about personal style.  Amelia Savciuc There are countless reasons as to why October is my favourite month of the year – crunchy leaves, perfect weather, foggy windows, pumpkin spice, Halloween festivities… The list goes on and on, but it does not end at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. While it was cancelled in 2019, the fashion show has returned, promising a runway just as glamorous as its prime years. And I will say – this year came surprisingly close. To truly appreciate this year’s spectacle, I wanted to break the show into its six themed segments. Segment 1: First Light Of course, I must mention the opening of the show – an ethereal display of Jasmine Tookes and her baby bump, clad in a jewelled, gold-netted dress and a shell ornament around her silhouette. Jasmine is an oyster shell harnessing a pearl within. Is it a glamorous exhibition of maternal femininity? Is it a homage to the birth of Venus? Is it a nod to nacre, also known as the mother-of-pearl? Baby propaganda, perhaps? Something we can all agree on: strutting the runway in heels and in your third trimester is an unimaginable feat that blew the show out of the water. Segment 2: Bombshell Madison Beer was the perfect fit for the Bombshell segment. It gave Barbie, it gave sweetheart, it gave those Valentine’s Day sugar candies. 
 Anok Yai – absolutely stunning. Her baby pink outfit was akin to the intricate Rococo era of the Renaissance. Her pearl-embellished wings, gemstone-coated headpiece, and breathtaking halo gave her the look of a real angel. Not to pick favourites, but… Segment 3: PINK Halftime I don’t have much to say about this. Personally? Not a fan. But I’ll keep it to myself. Segment 4: Hot Pursuit Or “Fiery Hot,” as Alex Consani put it. Off the runway, she’s known as a chronically-online icon who is constantly remodelling what it means to be a model. I would have loved to see more of her backstage, whether that be a small clip or a second, unfiltered interview. While we’re here – we need more dramatic behind-the-scenes shoots! The flair of the hair rollers and backstage glam! The shaky camera shots of running models and stage directors! The stress of those slipping on 9-inch heels and those shouting orders into professional earpieces! Ahh!! THAT’S Victoria’s Secret.  Segment 5: Magic Hour Pause. Can we appreciate the visuals? The white orb behind the models on the big screen lit the show in gold and slowly morphed from vivid orange to moonlit pink to a lilac twilight, acting as a setting sun Angelina Kendall transported me back to the prime era of the VS Fashion Show with her magnetic†am†am attitude. Segment 6: Black Tie I call this segment “Midnight Glamour” in my head. Accentuated by the elegance of black and silver, I started conspiring if it was a homage to the midnight-ridden tendencies of Dracula. After all, silver is every vampire’s kryptonite. Also, let’s not forget Amelia Gray with the cuntiest pose of the night. Ugh, the electronic, cyber-funk beat of Missy Elliott’s performance was such an unexpected tone shift. Her strobing show injected all the energy into the stage as she wrapped up the show.  And that was it. The ending. “I Feel Love” by Donna Summer was a heavenly fit and the torpedo of petal-like confetti falling from the sky shot my heart to my throat and left me speechless. It was an execution that revived the excitement, warmth, and fulfillment of Victoria’s Secret’s prime. While it had its ups and downs, I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it (we don’t speak of Segment 3) and was left buzzing with the thrill of waiting for the next one. Victoria, I’ll see you again in 2026.  |
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