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Montreal: Wrap yourself in Haramaki Love

By Magali Ould | January 12th, 2009 | 10:13 am

11 comments

Winter has been coming down so hard in Montreal the past couple of weeks that it’s hard to keep it stylish without freezing out to death on the streets.

Since I’m a winter renegade—I don’t wear fur, I still refuse to wear the ugly-but-warm coat or to pay zillions of dollars (when I can get at least 10 fabulous dresses)—I’ve become the master of layering cardigans, T-shirts and sweaters to keep my fashion pride. (I know! It doesn’t look that hot when it takes half a day to take off your layers in front of your date, but why go on winter dates anyway? Stay home!)

I may have found a solution to at least one of my problems: A belly warmer called a haramaki that’s made in Montreal and promises to keep me warm or at least warmer. After a trip to Japan, designer Julia Aynsley brought back the concept of haramaki and started her own line, Haramaki Love (haramakilove.com). The thinking is that the wrap improves circulation in your midsection, keeping your body temperature high. The fabric tube also supports the lower back and stomach, and apparently every Japanese woman is wearing one under her blouse. By adding stylish fabric and colors, Aynsley brought the one-time samurai garment up to a whole new level, where it can be worn many ways, not only to warm you up but also as an accessory to spice up your outfits.

Hot! Now I can take off that old grandpa cardigan my ex used to hate.

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  • Marianne

    Funny, I actually picked one of these up at one of her sales and LOVE it. I wear it all the time it keeps me really warm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Sun

    In Asia, it’s very important to keep your midsection warm. I remember my mom yelling at me because I wasn’t covering my belly enough. Many years later, I found myself wearing a haramaki (I offered one to my mother as well). I’m so glad that someone thought of selling haramakis in Montreal! Not only do haramakis keep you warm, they help your digestive system by consistently wearing them over time.Thanks!!!

  • Nadine

    I love this! I was helping out my boyfriend in his cold, cold studio the other day and had his scarf wrapped around my middle in an attempt to stay warm. This is such a better (and way more stylish) option! Thanks, Magali!

  • Spence

    Montreal women are known for their sense of style so I’m not surprise to see one of our own importing this accessory to MTL. Now the question is: Will our MTL fashionistas embrace this new look?
    A man who can’t wait to see:)
    Tks!

  • anita

    they are really cute but seems like more than that. it’s nice to see a fashionable product actually be good for your health..

  • Arianne

    I am wearing mine right now on a long and cold train ride. Such a brilliant little clothing blessing!

  • Renee

    This is genius and just what I need right now in this insanely cold winter of ours.

  • Reina

    I saw Haramaki Love at the Rusty Plum show back in December and bought one that I am wearing all the time now. I am guessing that the girl who sold it to be was the designer herself- she was very helpful. I’ve been recommending it to all of my friends, especially the ones who seem to be cold all the time like me.

  • Pingback: Montreal: The mad hatter of Paris comes to town | fashionmagazine.com

  • ika

    these canadian haramaki are nice, but i like japanese hobonichi haramaki much more. designs are funkier and way sexier, i think.:)

  • Daniella

    Not sure that I agree with the Hobonichi being sexier, actually – they seem much bulkier. Anyway I just had a baby and am loving these haramakis. (So is my husband!!) Goodbye, sharpey-like tummy!

Neither the author nor FASHION Magazine necessarily agrees with the comments posted here. Editors will not correct spelling or grammar. FASHION Magazine reserves the right to edit or delete comments entirely.

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