Author Archives: Katrina Longpre

Fashion is Pop Culture Pt.2

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Fashion is such an incredible thing. Beyond trends and seasons, it’s one of the most powerful ways we express who we are, emotionally, spiritually, and authentically. It’s more than just putting on clothes; it’s about how we connect with ourselves and the world around us. Without fashion, life would feel just a little duller, a little less vibrant. It’s a living, breathing art form, and we wear it every single day. 

Think about it: you can either get lost in fashion, letting trends dictate your choices, or you can take control and use it as a bold form of self-expression. That’s the beauty of it. Fashion reflects time, not just historically, but personally. You can look back at old photos and remember exactly how you felt in that moment. Maybe it was a simple white T-shirt you wore on the first day of school, the day you met your best friend. That shirt becomes more than fabric; it becomes a memory. 

There are so many layers to what fashion means to people. It’s not just about style, it’s about identity, experience, and emotion. It influences and is influenced by everything: music, movies, sports, even religion. No matter where you go, fashion follows. It’s in every concert outfit, every character costume, every team jersey. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “fashion person,” you’re still participating in it. You made a conscious decision this morning, what shirt to wear, what shoes to pair it with. That’s fashion. That’s you showing up. 

In a previous article, I talked about how fashion is ever-changing. Trends come and go. Some stay the same, some return after a decade, and some never quite catch on. But it all comes down to how you feel in what you wear. Confidence doesn’t come from following trends; it comes from wearing what feels like you. If that’s a crisp white tee and classic blue jeans, then that’s what you rock. And you should wear it with pride. 

Fashion can be controversial, bold, subtle, rebellious, or spiritual. Sometimes it challenges norms; other times, it redefines them entirely. But that’s part of the journey. Through all its chaos and creativity, fashion teaches us who we are, and who we want to be. 

At the end of the day, fashion is culture. It’s personal, universal, and ever evolving. So, wear what makes you feel powerful, connected, and real, because that’s what style is all about. 

Fashion is Pop Culture Pt.1

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Fashion isn’t just a part of pop culture—it is pop culture. It reflects the moment we’re in, and this year, as we head into 2025 (and especially during Coachella weekend), we’re already seeing some standout trends making waves. So, let’s talk about what’s in, how to wear it, and how you can make it your own. 

Elevated Athleisure 

You’ve probably noticed it already; elevated athleisure is everywhere. Think comfy but cool: zip-up track jackets, loose-fitting jeans, and clean sneakers. If you’ve ever watched Glee, imagine Sue Sylvester’s iconic tracksuit, but way more street-chic. That vibe is back and better than ever. 

One trend I’m really loving is the soccer jersey revival. People are pairing bright, bold jerseys with chill, wide-leg jeans and finishing the look with either ballet flats or sneakers, Sambas are still going strong. If your jersey has a standout color, try “color sandwiching” your outfit, match your sneakers or accessories to the jersey’s color for a pulled-together look that still feels effortless. 

And don’t sleep on racer jackets, they’ve quietly stayed in style, but now they’re being styled in more personal, creative ways. It’s all about putting your twist on something classic. 

Boho Chic Is Back 

Let’s talk about one of my personal favorites: boho chic. It’s flowy, it’s colorful, and it screams freedom. If you’ve been scrolling through your feed this Coachella weekend, you’ve probably seen it too, fringe, muted earth tones, oversized belts, and all the carefree energy. 

What’s great about boho chic is how it makes a comeback every few years, but always with a fresh twist. This time, I’m sensing a nod to that 2015 Tumblr girl era—think loose silhouettes, layered jewelry, and soft fabrics. It’s cozy, cool, and feels like summer in the best way. 

If you’re into accessorizing, this is your moment. The boho look thrives on texture, layers, and details, hats, belts, oversized bags, you name it. It’s less about following the “rules” and more about feeling good in what you wear. 

Your Style, Your Rules 

At the end of the day, though, the most important trend is this: wear what makes you feel good. Fashion is fast paced, always changing, and honestly hard to keep up with. But that’s what makes it fun. You don’t have to chase every trend. You just have to find inspiration, mix it with your personality, and own it. 

So, tell me, what are you wearing in 2025? 

Wrapping Up with the Warriors

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This was my second year with the Vancouver Warriors, and it’s honestly been an incredible experience. Even though I couldn’t make it to every game, each one I attended was filled with unforgettable moments that made the season feel truly special. 

With the Warriors clinching their first-ever playoff spot in team history, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights from this past season, maybe you experienced a few of these moments too. 

The first game of the season for me was surreal. It was Country Night, and the energy was unmatched. Themed nights like that always make the experience even more exciting. From the music to the fan interaction with the talent team, the atmosphere was electric. That game also marked a standout performance from Keegan Bal, who racked up six points and helped rally the Warriors to a thrilling victory. Seeing the team fight back and show resilience was something that stuck with me, it set the tone for the season ahead. The postgame vibes were great, too, with morale running high all around. 

Another memorable night was the game on March 22nd. It was a nail-biter from start to finish. The team had a lot of new faces, and watching how quickly they gelled was impressive. Goalie Christian Del Bianco made his debut in Vancouver and absolutely blew everyone away with his incredible performance. The Warriors edged out the Georgia Swarm in a close 15-13 win. But honestly, what made that night extra special wasn’t just the game. Afterward, a few of us from BCIT headed to the sports bar. We laughed, we celebrated, and it was just one of those nights where everything clicked. That memory will stay with me for a long time. 

Being at a Warriors game is more than just watching lacrosse, it’s an experience. Rogers Arena comes alive with every cheer, every goal, and every themed night. Fans dressed up in there gear, kids holding homemade posters, and the shared joy of victory all make it something truly unique. 

That’s what makes being a “Weekend Warrior” so meaningful. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, the atmosphere welcomes everyone. The energy, the sense of community, and the passion the team brings every night make it a can’t-miss event. 

Here’s hoping the power pushes us through the playoffs. Let’s go, Warriors! 

Work Culture: Who Stays and Who’s Just Passing Through

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Let’s be honest, are you really friends with all your coworkers? Seriously, think about it. I’ll say what we’re all thinking: you do not have to be friends with everyone you work with. You can be friendly, sure, but friendship isn’t a requirement.

That being said, in some work environments, especially smaller team-based ones, it can be helpful to form friendships. Having a good relationship with coworkers can make collaboration smoother and work more enjoyable. But if you’re in a job where the team is large or constantly changing, there’s no pressure to become besties with everyone. Still, it’s important to remain cordial and respectful, no matter how much someone gets on your nerves. At the end of the day, being the bigger person will usually serve you right (unless action really needs to be taken, but that’s a whole different topic).

I bring this up because I’ve had a lot of conversations about how work culture influences friendships, and it truly does. Some of the most meaningful people in your life might come from work. On the flip side, you’ll also meet folks who are clearly just passing through your life for a season, and that’s okay too. Having people at work you genuinely vibe with makes the job feel lighter. You know it’s a real friendship when you’re hanging out outside of work. But let’s be real, some coworkers are best left at work.

Have you ever dealt with someone who repeatedly wronged you at work, but still acts like you two are best friends? Or someone you’ve barely spoken to who insists you’re super close? It’s awkward. Maybe it sounds harsh, but I don’t see it that way, I see it as setting healthy boundaries. We get to choose who we let into our lives and who sticks around. It’s part of protecting our peace and knowing what (and who) serves our journey.

Work/friend culture is weird like that. In jobs like mine, where the team changes often, you learn to value the ones who are consistently there. They’re usually the ones who are meant to be part of your circle, at least for now.

Coachella Culture

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It’s that time of year again…Coachella weekend is here, and let me tell you, the outfits this year did not disappoint. But before we dive into the looks, let’s rewind a bit. What is Coachella?

Coachella is one of the biggest music festivals in the world, held annually in Indio, California. It’s famous for bringing together some of the most iconic artists of our time,Beyoncé, AC/DC, Charli XCX, Harry Styles, Ariana Grande, and so many more. But Coachella isn’t just about the music; it’s a full-blown cultural moment.

So what exactly is “Coachella culture”? For many of us, the first thing that comes to mind is fashion. Coachella has long been the birthplace of some legendary style moments. Over the past few years, there’s been a major throwback to that effortless 2012–2014 boho-chic vibe. For instance Vanessa Hudgens. She was the Coachella queen, serving some of the most unforgettable looks the desert has ever seen. Of course, if you’re conveniently forgetting 2020, we all remember “Coachella COVID-gate,” but regardless, the girl’s got style.

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Fashion aside, Coachella has also become an arena for influencers. And the way content from the festival is shared has seriously evolved. With the rise of TikTok, we’ve seen a shift from the long-form YouTube vlogs we used to wait days for, to bite-sized content we can consume in real time. It’s weird to think how fast-paced it’s become, you can now follow someone’s entire Coachella experience without ever leaving your phone.

Now, don’t get me wrong, there’s still a fair share of influencers who feel completely out of touch during this weekend. But recently, it feels like there’s been a more conscious effort to spotlight creators who actually get the vibe and bring something fresh to the table.

At the end of the day, Coachella is more than just a music festival. It’s a whole ecosystem of fashion, social media, and cultural trends, and it keeps evolving. I, for one, can’t wait to see how it all unfolds this weekend.

YouTube Culture: A Nostalgic Revival

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Do you miss the golden era of YouTube? Those days when summer mornings meant grabbing breakfast, propping up your iPad, and diving into a YouTube video without a care in the world? For many, that routine hasn’t changed, but the platform itself has evolved drastically. Unlike the endless scrolling of TikTok, YouTube offers a more immersive and calming experience. Instead of short bursts of overstimulation, it allows for deeper engagement, something we’ve slowly lost in today’s fast-paced media consumption.

This perspective might vary depending on how you engage with social media. As a woman, the way we consume content is different from a male audience, but the nostalgia for classic YouTube spans across genders. Personally, I love a good vlog—those raw, unfiltered glimpses into someone’s life that feel like a virtual FaceTime call. It’s fascinating how some creators thrive on TikTok but seem like they were made for YouTube. If they committed to long-form content, they could excel beyond their short-form success.

Take the beauty community, for example. The YouTube beauty era of 2012-2016 was an era, but looking back, it’s shocking how curated and unrealistic it all was. Many creators have since opened up about the pressure to maintain a picture-perfect image, shaping an unattainable standard for young viewers. Thankfully, today’s media landscape has shifted. While some argue that social media is still full of facades, we now have a choice—we can seek out creators who prioritize authenticity over perfection.

However, there’s a fine line between authenticity and para-social relationships. It’s easy to feel like you “know” your favourite YouTuber, but at the end of the day, they don’t know you. They engage with comments; they are entertainers sharing pieces of their lives. Finding common ground with an influencer is great, but maintaining realistic boundaries is just as important.

YouTube still has the power to create meaningful content. Creators like Love Island’s Leah Kateb shine in long-form videos, making YouTube a better fit for them than TikTok. Spencer Barbosa is another example, her content feels like stepping into a different world, providing an escape from the rapid-fire nature of short-form media.

Looking ahead, I hope YouTube’s culture continues to evolve in a way that embraces realism rather than toxic perfection. Long-form content not only fosters deeper connections but also helps rebuild our dwindling attention spans. If we can reclaim that slower, more immersive way of consuming media, it might just change the way we interact with the world around us.

Formula 1 Roundup: A Thrilling Start to the Season

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Lights out and away we go—Formula 1 is back, and the 2025 season is already delivering drama! One team that has set the paddock on fire? McLaren. Kicking off the season with a spectacular win at the Australian Grand Prix, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri proved that McLaren is here to fight.

The Australian Grand Prix was anything but predictable. Right from the formation lap, chaos ensued. New Visa Cash App RB driver Isack Hadjar suffered a heartbreaking DNF before the race even started. And let’s talk about the weather, it was relentless. Rain, dry patches, and everything in between made this one of the most challenging races in recent memory. The tricky conditions led to several retirements, including Jack Doohan, Liam Lawson, and Gabriel Bortoleto. Even seasoned veterans like Carlos Sainz making his debut with Williams and Fernando Alonso fell victim to the slippery track. It was a crushing moment for Sainz, who had looked promising all weekend in free practice.

Despite the chaos, one of the biggest talking points was the battle between Norris and reigning world champion Max Verstappen. It was a nail-biting chase, with Verstappen relentlessly hunting Norris down like a shark eyeing its prey. However, Norris held his ground, managing the gaps beautifully even when Verstappen had DRS advantage. It was an intense showdown that showcased just how much McLaren has closed the gap to Red Bull over the off-season.

Another standout performance came from Oscar Piastri. The young Australian was putting in a strong drive until a late-race slip sent him off into the grass, forcing him to reverse back onto the track. This put him a lap down, but thanks to multiple safety cars, he fought his way back and finished ninth still in the points. It was an impressive recovery, though it could have been a double podium opportunity for McLaren or a first time Aussie win in Australia.

The race had countless DNFs, unpredictable weather shifts, and exhilarating battles on track. One moment it was pouring rain, the next it was bone dry. It was hot and cold, lap after lap. But for McLaren fans, this race was a dream start to the season.

With only two races down, the season is just getting started. What are your predictions? Which teams do you think will rise to the challenge? One thing’s for sure—if the Australian Grand Prix was any indication, 2025 is going to be a season to remember!

Vancouver Food Culture: Brunch Bliss at Wooden Spoon

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If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious brunch spot after exploring White Rock, Wooden Spoon is a must-visit. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savoury, this spot delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

Wooden Spoon boasts an incredible brunch and lunch menu, and its warm, rustic atmosphere adds to the charm. With a cozy, cabin-like aesthetic, it has a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home.

One dish that absolutely blew me away was their BBQ Smoked Meat Poutine. I still dream about it to this day. As a self-proclaimed poutine lover, I can confidently say this is one of the best I’ve ever had, at least in BC. The balance of rich, sweet, and salty flavours, combined with that mesmerizing cheese pull, makes it an item you simply cannot miss. My boyfriend and I couldn’t get enough, we were practically fighting over the last bite!

For dessert, the Tiramisu French Toast was the perfect way to end the meal. It wasn’t overly sweet, which I appreciated, and the creamy layer of vanilla espresso cream on top elevated the dish to another level. The addition of cookie crumbles gave it a satisfying texture and a delightful crunch. If you’re a tiramisu fan, this dish will not disappoint.

Beyond the food, Wooden Spoon captures a distinct Canadian essence, much like Burgoo. Its rustic, woodsy vibe makes you feel like you’re tucked away in a cozy Whistler cabin, fuelling up before hitting the slopes. The restaurant itself is on the smaller side, so I highly recommend making a reservation or visiting during off-peak hours. If you’re planning a weekday brunch, you’re more likely to snag a table without much wait.

Overall, Wooden Spoon is a gem in White Rock that deserves a spot on your must-visit list. From the inviting atmosphere to the mouthwatering dishes, it’s an experience worth savouring. If you’re a brunch enthusiast, this place is calling your name!

 

 

Vancouver Food Culture: Bite at Burgoo’s

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Located at 3096 Main St, Vancouver, Burgoo is the perfect spot when you’re craving a warm, hearty meal. With a versatile menu offering everything from creamy mac and cheese to savoury risotto, this place is ideal for any occasion.

Burgoo’s atmosphere has a charming cabin-like feel, with plenty of nods to Canadian history. The rustic, forest-inspired décor makes it a great spot if you prefer a more relaxed, less overstimulating dining experience. The ambiance is calm yet sociable, striking a perfect balance. Plus, the staff is incredibly welcoming and always happy to help with recommendations.

For an appetizer, you can’t go wrong with the calamari—it’s always a solid choice. But if seafood isn’t your thing, they also offer chicken karaage and cauliflower bites, both of which came highly recommended by our server. It’s up to you to decide which one will take the cake!

We didn’t order any specialty drinks, but Burgoo has a great bar stocked with a wide selection of local options. From BC wines to craft beers and ciders, there’s plenty to explore if you’re in the mood for a little drink.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the mac and cheese. This dish is unbelievably rich, with a cheese pull so perfect it should be legendary. It’s topped with carnitas-style pulled pork that adds a sweet and savoury twist, making for an unforgettable bite. As someone who has tried a lot of mac and cheese, I can confidently say this one ranks in my top five.

I didn’t get the chance to try their soups and sandwiches, but based on my TikTok research, they are a hot topic of conversation whenever Burgoo is mentioned. The Gooey Cheese Grillers, in particular, seemed to be a fan favourite, so if you’re a grilled cheese lover, it’s definitely worth trying.

And if you have room for dessert, the chocolate mousse is a must. It’s rich, decadent, and pure bliss from the very first bite. Trust me, you’ll want to save space for it!

If you’re planning your Vancouver food adventures this spring, make sure Burgoo is on your list. The cozy atmosphere, incredible comfort food, and nostalgic rustic charm make it feel like a trip back in time.

Vancouver Food Culture: A Taste of Osteria Elio Volpe

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Vancouver’s food culture is growing every day, and I have some fantastic spots for you to try. I’ll be writing a series on places I’ve checked out, so you can find your next go-to dining experience. Fair warning…a lot of them are Italian! 

One of my top recommendations is Osteria Elio Volpe, located at 540 W 17th Ave, Vancouver. This restaurant is incredibly versatile, perfect for a girl’s night, a romantic date, or even a celebration with family and friends. The menu is exquisite, offering a variety of pastas, pizzas, and delicious starters. If you’re looking for a place that, has it all; great food, stunning ambiance, and a welcoming staff. 

From the moment you step inside, the aesthetics will captivate you. The restaurant combines a muted colour palette with rich Italian charm while incorporating modern design elements. It strikes the perfect balance between cozy and sophisticated. 

Now, let’s talk about what to order. Start with the Semolina Parker House Rolls with pecorino butter and sesame sprinkled on top. These rolls will change your life. They come as soft, fluffy buns arranged like a flower, easily pulled apart while still warm and fresh. Spread a generous amount of butter on them, and with that first bite, you’ll understand why I’ll never get over them. The delicate, savoury-yet-slightly-sweet flavour simply melts in your mouth. It is easily one of the best starters I’ve ever had. 

For your entrée, I didn’t get a chance to try the pasta, but there are plenty of reviews online and on TikTok. However, if you’re in the mood for pizza, I have two recommendations. If you want to keep it classic, go for the Margherita pizza. It’s perfectly delicate with a cracker-thin crust that won’t leave you feeling overly full or sluggish—just satisfied. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Hot Honey Pepperoni pizza. It’s a game-changer. The combination of pepperoni, sweet honey, and jalapeños creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making each bite an explosion of flavour. When it’s fresh out of the oven, it’s absolutely divine. 

Pair your meal with their blood orange sparkling drink, it’s refreshing and pairs beautifully with the bread rolls and pizza. The overall experience at Osteria Elio Volpe is top-notch, from the food to the service. The staff is incredibly attentive; for example, while my partner was in the washroom, a server neatly folded his napkin without me even noticing a small detail. They’re also super helpful if you need some help understanding the menu. 

I highly recommend this spot, not only for its aesthetics but also for the impeccable service and unforgettable flavors. It’s easily in my top ten places to eat in Vancouver!