Toronto based fashion brand smithe was born out of two longtime friends’ frustration with women’s workwear. Andrea Lenczner and Christie Smythe used their love of fashion to design the blazer in 2004 to suit their ideal woman – a garment that still sells today. Nearly two decades later, the duo has expanded into ready-to-wear dresses, outerwear and fragrances, and recently opened its first bricks-and-mortar location in Toronto after years of focusing on wholesale and e-commerce. Celebrated one year anniversary. ,
Through their designs, Lenzner & Smythe are also helping to raise awareness for women life freedom Movement, a global collective fighting for the human rights of women and girls in Iran. SMYTHE recently released a 11-piece collection in collaboration with graffiti artist Chiara Catalano, all proceeds of which will be donated to Amnesty International to support its work in Iran. Items include a hand-painted trench coat that says “Women Live Freedom” in black, and blazers with quotes like “I really care” and “For all women” embossed on them. The collection is available to purchase exclusively via online auction from March 30 to April 2.
Here are 10 things that Lenzner and Smythe swear by for inspiration, relaxation, and getting work done.
jewelery
to Lenzner, jewelery Makeup is as important as enhancing the look. “Well-placed jewelry is a great fashion hack to elevate a simple outfit,” she says. jenny bird A shell necklace with gold cuff earrings and freshwater pearls marissa class He has some favourites.
vintage levi’s jeans
The co-founders were on a unified mission to improve the women’s blazer when they started the brand and still love the staple today. “The blazer is not only the core of our collection, but a pillar of both of our wardrobes,” says Lenzner. Smythe enjoys pairing with tailored and structured apparel Levi’s Vintage denim that she picked up during her travels.
La Roche-Posay Sikaplast B5
Lenzner likes to keep a bottle of this all-purpose soothing balm at her desk for a mid-day spritz. “I have dry skin, so moisturizing after some pressed facial oil is essential,” she says.
G Beauty Matte Lipstick in Merlin
Smythe swears by this luxe, antioxidant-packed red lipstick for when she needs a pick-me-up. “People always go under the eye to hide their sleepless nights, but nothing makes you look more alive than a big red lip,” she says.
group travel
It is very important for both to go out into nature frequently to relax and spend time with family and friends. Lenzner says her fondest memories are skiing in the winter somewhere with mountains and lots of snow, and spending time in a lakeside cottage during the summer. Once a year, this couple also goes on a trip with friends to a new destination. “It doesn’t matter where we go—just to be able to leave our routine and try something new is inspiring,” says Smythe.
interior design
When she’s not working on her clothing line and fragrance, she often turns to interior design to decompress and use it as a relaxing creative outlet. The pair have been known to spend hours rearranging each other’s living spaces.
Individual training
Days that start with exercise are the most productive and balanced for Lenzner and Smythe. The two work out together twice a week with their personal trainer Paula Raif from Ultimate Athletics in Toronto. “Her ballet and bodybuilding background is a unique combo that we love,” says Smyth.
Vitamins and Supplements
The two stockpile electrolytes in an effort to keep you extra hydrated throughout the day. Lately, Lenzner has also been taking personalized vegan vitamins. Human, which are custom-made based on specific nutritional needs. “They have a sour taste, which I love,” she says.
Queen Street West’s food scene
Since morning workouts have become a priority, Lenzner and Smith rarely have time to go out for lunch, so they often rely on Uber Eats. Working in the Queen West neighborhood of Toronto, Mandy’s, Lambo’s Deli, hello 123 And Agora by Mamakus Are on regular rotation. as well as in their jurisdiction Tavern Bernhardt’sJoe Lenzner says he makes the best roast chicken he’s ever had.
spotify playlist
To relax during long drives, Lenzner usually asks Smyth to play a Spotify playlist called “Andrea’s Favs,” which includes music from artists such as Talking Heads, The Beatles, HER, and Metric.
