Sweet Clothes Of Mine: If finding amazing second hand coats was an Olympic sport, I’d be a highly decorated medalist...

Speaking of the Olympics…have you heard they are happening in my backyard? Did you see that Arnold Schwarzenegger carried the Olympic torch? We Canucks are still scratching our toque-laden heads on that one. Nothing says Canadian Olympic Spirit like a former Austrian body-builder turned American actor turned California Governor who admitted to using steroids.

Some people find it hard to believe that I love sports (both watching and playing) AND fashion. Well folks, it is possible. It’s also possible to be a sports fan AND look fashionable while doing it.

Also, because I believe thrifting shares some of the same ideals as the Olympic spirit (effort, struggle and refusal to give up) I thought I would share with you some of my Canadiana vintage items that I plan on wearing during the Games.

My 1974 off-white wool Hudson’s Bay Coat with sheep skin collar, hand embroidery and chrome details may be one of my best finds ever and was only…wait for it….five dollars. It fits me like a glove, is toasty warm and is a classic Canadiana piece. Perfect for the Olympics.

This is me bundled up on the side of the road somewhere between Vancouver and Whistler. Thanks Marguerite for the photo!

Read about the history of the Hudson Bay Blanket and the blanket coats here.

Next up is my authentic Cowichan Sweater. These beauties are so cozy and scream “hello I’m from British Columbia.”

Read about the Cowichan sweater here.

Last up is my Ol’ English Duffle Coat. I don’t know why this feels sport’s fannish, but it does. I‘ve had this second hand duffle coat in my closet for years. My very good friend Sheila sent it to me when I first moved to Toronto to help keep me warm. It’s been a staple in my closet ever since. Think I’ll wear it with my new Hudson’s Bay toque (see photo above). Any good Canadian wouldn’t be caught dead at an Olympic event without a toque.