Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Wakani

What’s not to love about Philip Sparks? The much-lauded Toronto menswear designer mixes nostalgia with geek in a trendy way that keeps us coming back for more.

And frankly, anyone who pairs a colourful plaid shirt with shorts and suspenders or a bowtie with a dress jacket and pants, both cuffed, is in our good books. And just like every other season before this, we weren’t disappointed.

But on the rainy evening of Philip Sparks’ Spring 2011 runway collection on October 13, 2010 at The Burroughes Building in Toronto, the excitement was over the debut of his first women’s collection. And ladies, let me tell you, it was everything we hoped for.

Pretty prints. Girl next store jackets. Tailored trousers and shorts, all in the coveted Philip Sparks styling! Simply put, we love it.

Warm up this winter with the Captain’s Coat ($575) by Toronto native menswear designer Philip Sparks (www.philipsparks.com). Made ethically in Canada, the coat is available in navy and black, made from wool and nylon, featuring a shawl collar and quilted lining.