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Banff Summer Capsule: Shoe & clothing suggestions?

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Hello, everyone -

I hope you'll all forgive me for posting with a question when I've been relatively absent lately. My work is in a very demanding phase right now and I don't have much internet time. However, I value your opinions so much that I thought I would throw this out for consideration and shopping advice!

The good news: I have been selected to attend a Literary Journalism program in Banff this summer. I will be spending the month of July at the Banff Centre for the Arts. It is a very exciting opportunity for me, as all expenses are paid and I even get paid a little bit to produce a piece of writing that I want to work on.

(While I'm away, I will continue to work full-time throughout at my paid job, however, so it's going to be an incredibly busy period! Which makes being prepared all the more important.)

Banff weather is quite different from summer weather as I know it. So there is that. I need to know what temperatures to dress for.

Also, I believe the most comfortable dress will be even more casual than my typical already quite casual MOTG summer wear.

I'd rather not descend to a wardrobe of gear, except for gear-necessitating activities, obviously. I'm hoping I can make do with regular clothes, with perhaps some additions to fill some gaps.

I expect at minimum I'll need some new footwear that sort of straddles the line between "walking" or "hiking" shoe or sandal and regular shoe or sandal.

Anyone have some ideas about what that might be? I can bring actual walking/hiking shoes as well, but what I'm looking for is the kind of shoe I could wear to walk down the mountain into town; not a real hike, but a walk on sometimes bumpy terrain. Something that would look decently un-gearlike but would also offer a bit of stability and grip.

For clothing, I'm planning to bring jeans (of course). I'll also bring a few pairs of denim or similar bermudas. I am wondering what other clothes would be useful and practical but also at least somewhat fashionable.

All suggestions will be taken with delight.

I do have an opportunity to do a bit of ordering from the US as hubby will be there in June just before I leave and I could have things sent to him...but not too much, because I think he has some shopping plans of his own, LOL.

Dressing

23 replies

Latest reply was from Suz

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

How exciting, Suz! I do hope you get some gear as well because hiking in Banff must be spectacular (if you like this kind of things).
I may be not much help on footwear - what do you have sturdy and comfortable enough to allow you walking on unpaved terrain?
As for the clothing keep in mind that weather can be very unpredictable in the mountains: sunny and hot one moment - and foggy or rainy or windy a moment later. Be prepared for a dramatic temperature change between day and night as well. I would take hat and gloves as well - better safe than sorry.
Jeans sound like good choice, make sure you have quite a few layers including warm and waterproof.
Have fun!

Sarah A

Veteran

These dont have a super grippy sole (the toe portion is leather and the heel rubber), but they are cute and I walked quite confortably 3 miles over gravel in them pushing a 65 pound stroller. Cant quite believe it but I find them a "12 hour" sandal.

http://www.sierratradingpost.c.....rFamily=01

ETA: I had to size down one full size.

christieanne

Veteran

How exciting for you! The setting should be inspiring and the opportunity is incredible.

I think you are on the right track in keeping simple and casual but also, washable. You may have to do the emergency wash in sink or find a laundromat or hotel?
Layering tanks/tops and denim jacket? It gets cool at night I suspect.

I love my ballet shoe sneakers from Puma and they are handy for lots of walking around town without being quite as gearish. Privo makes similar versions as does Converse and Adidas.
http://www.zappos.com/puma-zan.....cTest=fw:0

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Thank you for the good wishes and the links. These are great shoe suggestions already! Sarah, I am amazed those are sturdy because they look so delicate. Very pretty, actually. And Christie, I really like your ideas, too. I have a lot of trouble getting ballet flat style shoes to stay on my feet due to my foot's shape, but if I am able to actually try on, something like this might be a good bet. This is the type of thing I have in mind, for sure.

Sveta, I have a good walking shoe from Ecco for wearing on actual hikes. I will indeed do some real hiking while there! But what I"m looking to buy is more a daily wear shoe for when I am in my classes, walking around the facility, walking in town or into town, etc.

Inge

(website)

Big congratulations, Suz!! What a fantastic achievement and wonderful opportunity. Please keep us posted?

I'm not sure what the weather will be like in Banff, but I was thinking of a great pair of flat oxfords and a pair of loafers to walk into town? Ooh I just read Sveta's comment, for colder and rainy days I might even take along a pair of knee-high boots in a light colour (look great with skirts, dresses and with jeggings or skinny jeans tucked in) and/or a pair of ankle boots in a fun colour.

Layering seems key. So a few jackets (denim jacket, bright-coloured or patterned blazer). Maybe a trench coat? A few scarves (easy to pack in your bag, and good to have for airco and when it starts to cool down).
And how about a long-sleeved dress or a tunic dress that you can wear with leggings or jeggings?

I'm so excited for you!

lyn*

(website)

Veteran

I'd like to add that a scarf is a must - I always bring one when I go camping - easy to take off, and essential in early morning and late evening! It gets cold REALLY fast.

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

I see - how about some boots? Dr Martens would be awesome I think: comfortable and with great traction. They are casual enough but have that cool factor in the same time.

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Congratulations Suz! What an achievement!

I've been to Banff a few times and the key to comfort is LAYERING. It can be very warm during the daytime (especially in the town proper) but very cool in the evenings and first thing in the morning. A couple of jacket options are essential - your denim jacket for light layering and then a warmer option for evenings.

It's definitely a casual dress code and lots of gear to be spotted. But dinner in the restaurants can be on the dressy side so I'd take a dress and maybe a skirt for those occasions. What about that gorgeous taupe/fawn coloured dress with the high neck and sleeves for a cool evening version, coupled with your Report Marks booties? Your denim skirt and a red jacket (can't remember - do you have a red cropped denim jacket?) would be another great option that can take you from day to dinner.

I would definitely toss in your trench coat in case you get rain.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Fab suggestions, thank you! Shannon, I hadn't really thought about that striped dress (I've put it away, because it would be too hot for summers here) but you are SO right; it could work great in the mountains.

Also, you have a superb memory; i have a red cord denim-style jacket; it could be really great to bring because unlike a denim jacket, I can probably wear it with jeans on the bottom.

I was definitely planning to bring the Reports for my town or city outings (I may get to Calgary a few times during my stay).

By the way, just to clarify, I will NOT be camping. I will be staying in a lovely hotel style room with my own private bath, and I will ALSO have a private writing cabin. Plus all meals, plus gym facilities . There is laundry in the building. This is the program I will be attending: http://www.banffcentre.ca/prog.....px?id=1207

And this is where I will be staying, in Lloyd Hall: http://www.banffcentre.ca/programs/accommodation/

And I'll get one of these cabins to work in: http://www.banffcentre.ca/leightoncolony/

celia

Veteran

Sounds exciting.I am no help here but wish you all the best.

cheryl

Veteran

I am no help with recomendations but wanted to say Congratulations. Sounds like a wonderful opportunity for you.

velvetychocolate

Veteran

I'm so thrilled for you!

While I don't any specific shoe suggestions right now, I wanted to say that I when I was last in Banff it was mid-August and it was kind of cold (for summer). I was wearing jeans, a dressier knit top, and closed toe shoes and when I rolled into Banff (road trip), I was feeling fairly chilly.

I distinctly remember parking in town, wanting a decent coffee before going to the hotel, and rooting around in my trunk, looking for a lightweight jacket before going off in search of a coffee shop.

Like I said, I'm not certain about July ( was there in August) - but I would recommend some long, lightweight pants - the very things you'd never wear in a hot Ontario summer. I'd also recommend packing any/all denim or other casual jackets you have. These, combined with tees/casual tops, will serve you well. Skirts, tops, and even shorts during the day, but you might be surprised - long pants and your denim jackets *will* come in handy, imo. You don't necessarily need closed-toe shoes or socks or anything like that, but you will appreciate your jackets for sure.

Thinking back, I would be 'ok' with clam-length shorts or skirt, decent walking sandals, casual top, but I'd want/need that jacket. Again, this was mid-August, and I know that mountain towns have their 'fall' kind of early-ish. I have no idea what the month of July would be like, but I can tell you that mid-August was more like mid to late September.

Definitely take at least one pair of long light-weight pants/trousers/jeans - and one or two jackets (ie. casual blazer and/or denim jacket).

In the meantime, what an amazing opportunity! I hope you have a blast! Have you been to Banff before? It is jaw-droppingly beautiful. I remember taking my then-fiance (now husband) through there, and how his jaw literally dropped at the sheer size and beauty of those mountains. One minute it was prairies, endless gold and sunshine, and then - eveything went almost black. Why? Because the mountains were so tall, so imposing - you could hardly see the sky. I'd told him about this in advance, but he didn't believe me. Next thing I know, he was practically veering off the road, he was so suprised and so in awe of those majestic mountains. The lakes are an intense kind of blue - a glow-in-the dark turquoise colour. I cannot think of a better place to spend some time writing.

I know you're going to be very busy while you're there, but I am hoping to hear some reports when you get back. Take tons of pictures, be sure to take notes in a journal about what it's like being there...and (please) tell us all about it when you have a chance to catch your breath.

Best wishes for this wonderful opportunity. Woo hoo!!!

sarah

Veteran

Suz, that's so exciting! I was just on a somewhat similar trip (although it was even more casual) and loved having my Frye Carson shorties along - I could wear them under bootcut jeans and with my skinnies tucked in.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

You've received great adice Suz, so I'm just chiming in to say congrats!!! And that I miss you

rae

(website)

Veteran

All I keep thinking back to are those Report Marks booties, which took me up massive hills of cobblestone...

Are you looking for more of a summer shoe or sandal? Born and Softspots both jump to mind for that.

Isabel

Veteran

Congratulations !!! I have been to Banff, for 3 weeks, and I LOVED it ! I wish I could "swing" by the beautiful cabin for coffee with you.

I agree with the layers. It can become warm, especially if you are hiking, but when the sun starts to set, it can get really cold. I never needed super lightweight clothing though, because it never got really hot when I was there. I can say that you should bring rain gear. It rained a few times we were there and it got very cold during that time. I did have a pair of lightweight gloves that I used on several occasions ( I was there is July ).

I am not sure what type of shoe you are looking for, but I have something similar to the following and I love it :

http://www.zappos.com/teva-kok.....cTest=fw:0

I also really like the "dressier" Tevas, which are super comfy to walk around town in and they look good for dinner out :

http://www.zappos.com/product/.....cTest=fw:0

That in Banff proper, people tended to look a little more dressed up...but there were also plenty of people in "gear". Bright colors were not the norm. Do you have a pair of ponte pants ? Those would work well at night and would be comfy for the day or even to take a walk in. I recently bought a pair from JJill.

http://www.jjill.com/jjillonli.....;ac=search

I love lightweight wool. It is perfect for Banff weather. If you want a "nicer" pair of pants ( you can layer pantyhose under if it gets real cold at night ) , I would suggest a pair of 120s from JJill also. I LOVE mine !! In fact, I am buying one of the crops and making them into shorts, too.

http://www.jjill.com/jjillonli.....&sk=M

I think that with a black pair of ponte pants and a navy blue or grey lightweight wool..you will be covered for nicer events, with the ponte serving as a refined sweatpant too.

And do bring a pair of closed toe flats or shoes too. You might need them. I love Christieanne's suggestion of the Puma.

Finally, I think that an "athletic" dress similar to one the following would be very versatile :

http://athleta.gap.com/browse/.....=835929062

http://www.titlenine.com/produ.....?kwd=dress

Phew...I am done.

I am sooooo excited for you...can you tell ? LOL !

HelenInCanada

Veteran

Thrilled to hear about your news, Suz! I've heard super things about the Banff program - how exciting! Hope you get a chance to ride the Rocky Mountaineer. Heard it's a dream!
I'm afraid I'm of no great help here, but it sounds like you've gotten some good advice. I've never been to the Western end of Canada, but I'm assuming summers in Banff are less humid and crazy-sticky as they are in Southern Ontario. That should make summer-dressing options much better! Best of luck - and have a blast!

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Wow, thank you everyone for the good wishes and the great suggestions!! These are all wonderful ideas and links.

VC, you are SO smart to recommend a pair of lightweight trousers that are non -denim. I think that might be just the ticket; then I could wear my denim jacket, too. I am going to hunt for something like that, or the pontes that Isabel so wisely recommended. Great idea.

I have indeed been in Banff before; last time I was there it was the very end of April/ beginning of May, and it snowed like crazy! So I know it can be surprisingly cold at all times of year. I am planning to bring my Blundstones for kicking around the mountain; they will stand up to anything and keep me warm with my jeans. And yes, I've got a goretex gear-type coat, although it is sadly quite a bit too big for me; I might try to replace it with one that is better fitting before I leave.

Isabel, I really like those "dressy" Tevas! I had never seen them before. They look fab! And I also love the "athletic" dressed you linked to. Those could be super useful and are exactly what I was imagining for a possible night out or even just in classes during the day when it is hot. PERFECT suggestions.

I will keep you all posted with wardrobe pics and other pics, never fear! And thank you, again!

lyn67

Veteran

Not much of a help here Suz, just chimming in to say, how exciting is this!!!!!! Congrats and hope you'll still share your outfits from time to time:-) Love the dressy Tevas and "athletic" dresses linked by Isabel a lot.

Aunty

Veteran

i am not going to be able to help at all, but just wanted to say congratulations

rosee

Veteran

Congratulations Suz! and welcome to Alberta. I know there are at least 2 of us (Jem and myself) in the Calgary area on YLF -- maybe we can organize a mini-YLF get-together in Banff in the summer?

As Banff is less than an hour's drive from my house (I really should go there more often considering that) I have been there many times. Generally speaking, Banff is only slightly cooler than Calgary on a given day, considering the elevation. The weather is always very changeable (b/c of all the fronts coming in from different directions) but it can get quite hot and quite cool. Afternoons (under direct sunlight) are hotter and the evening gets relatively cool (there are no large bodies of water to regulate temperature like in Ontario).

The advice above is good, the strategy is actually quite simple:
- A Smart-Casual wardrobe sounds ideal for your purposes, but layering pieces will be key to having a functional wardrobe. Not everything needs to be gear-like, but you will see a lot of gear in Banff (the local dress code). Easy-care as well.
- A layering jacket or trench would be ideal. This is your topper for mornings and evenings and cooler days.
- some short-sleeve tops and some longer-sleeve tops, and thin wool sweaters or cardigans that layer well.
- bottoms that are easy to wear and care for -- your choice. Some full-length, some knee-length. Easy to wear dresses.
- shoes -- almost anything really goes. Most of the main streets and sidewalks are paved, some are pressed dirt (almost cement-like). I wouldn't necessarily wear stilletos but any dressy-casual shoe should be fine, especially one with a flexible rubber sole and low heel. You could get away with not wearing gear (except on the trails) during your stay in town.
- while the majority of inhabitants will be seen in gear and boho outfits (usually the younger workers in Banff who came from somewhere else) , many are also quite stylish (a big city is close by). Wear what makes you feel great and comfortable too.

Best wishes for your program!

p.s. You could do some good shopping in Calgary as well for your stay -- relatively low prices and only 5% GST (no PST or HST). Banff's prices tend to be higher b/c it is a resort town. Gear can be purchased at several stores in Calgary, but they also have some dressy casual options at these stores. I could link sites later if needed.

ManidipaM

Veteran

Such thrilling news, Suz! Absolutely delighted for you!

Have no actual help to offer, but just had to congratulate on this fantastic adventure ahead!

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Rosee, a mini-YLF get-together would be a blast! I might be able to swing a trip down to Calgary while I"m there if coming up to Banff does not appeal.

Thank you for the terrific suggestions. I am busily online shopping. (Oh, any excuse will do!!)