I hope your Monday is off to a good start! I’ve got an extra pep in my step today because I’m teaming up with one of my long-standing favourite Canadian-made brands, Power of My People.
For the last several years I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jessica Matthew, co-founder and designer, and can fully attest to the long-lasting quality and thoughtfulness behind this line of impeccably crafted shirts (& more). The latest collection, SOL, is filled with sunset hues, hunter greens, crisp stripes and features the brand’s inaugural take on a tailored pant (spoiler alert: it’s GOOD!).
As much as this season’s palette and new shapes has me swooning, today I’m revisiting the styles I’ve loved since the start, which are The Friend and The Philosopher. Both shirts have been mainstays in my spring and summer closet for years now and I’m still discovering new ways to wear them!
I hope you’ll scroll on to explore 7 (yes 7!) different ways I’m styling them right now!
STYLE BEE READERS SAVE 20% OFF ANY POWER OF MY PEOPLE ORDER* WITH ‘STYLE_BEE‘
CODE WILL APPLY AUTOMATICALLY. VALID THROUGH MAY 11TH.
*This post is in partnership with Power of My People, a Canadian-made brand and longtime Style Bee partner. Style Bee earns a commission on sales made using the reader code (at no additional cost to customers). More details below.
QUICK NOTES about The Friend & The Philosopher
BY POWER OF MY PEOPLE
I’ve been wearing and styling The Friend and The Philosopher shirts since 2017 and they just continue to prove their versatility within my closet. They also happen to be perfect for working from home thanks to their comfortable fit (that’s still polished enough for Zoom meetings), easy to care for fabric and highly versatile design. They can be layered over or under without any issues and styled in an infinite number of ways. If that’s not a timeless piece, I’m not sure what is!
QUICK FACTS
- PRICE:
$165 CAD$132 CAD (approx. $95 USD) with code: STYLE_BEE - Code will auto apply via any links in this post.
- FIT: Fit is slightly oversize and relaxed, I wear an XS, which is down from my usual Small and even after years of washing the fit remains exactly how I like it. For reference: I’m 5’7 and about 125 lbs.
- SIZING: XXS – 3XL (POMP has expanded their sizing!)
- FABRIC: 100% LINEN 3.7 oz. which only gets softer and more beautiful with time. Oeko-Tex Standard 100 approved.
- SHEERNESS: I wear a nude bra under my Friend shirt and find that with the large front pockets there is zero issue with show-through.
- COLOUR: THE FRIEND – Off-white, ivory, very light cream. | THE PHILOSOPHER – Rich black to start but will gently fade with washing.
- There are more colours available such as: THE FEMME (sunset orange) & THE NARRATOR (hunter green)
- CARE: Wash cold + hang dry. Allow for up to 1/4″ shrinkage on the length and 3/8″ total shrinkage on the width.
- MADE PROUDLY IN CANADA | Read more about the brand.
- DETAILS: The relaxed fit, generous length, short sleeves and large chest pockets are what make these shirts so special to me. I’ve never seen anything quite like them anywhere else.
SHOP THE FRIEND
SHOP THE PHILOSOPHER
20% discount will apply automatically.
Times are uncertain right now, so if you’re not shopping at the moment I completely understand and hope this post will spark some new ideas for pieces you may already have.
Read on to see 7 easy-going yet elevated ways to style these two shirts. These looks are great for WFH right now and can easily be styled up for future times when we’re able to be out in the world.
LOOK 1
THE FRIEND
ASYMMETRICALLY TUCKED INTO WHITE PANTS WITH A LIGHT CARDIGAN & FUZZY SLIPPERS
A matching set is my favourite way to create an effortlessly chic look. A half tuck adds playfulness and interest in a relaxed way.
THE FRIEND SHIRT gifted in 2017 POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (this will auto apply via any links in this post)
FLORENCE PANT LINEN (I wear a Small Reg) // LONG CARDIGAN old (linked to a similar option) // UNDONE LIP COLOUR // SHEARLING SLIPPERS // LUMEN NECKLACE (made in Canada)
LOOK 2
THE PHILOSOPHER
FULLY TUCKED INTO VINTAGE JEANS WITH A BLACK TOP LAYER AND SIMPLE SLIPPERS
The 3.7 oz linen used for these shirts is lightweight enough that it tucks easily, feels comfortable and drapes nicely, especially after some wear and washing. This look demonstrates another way to employ a matching set for a sophisticated but minimal vibe.
THE PHILOSOPHER SHIRT bought by me POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (Code will auto apply via any links in this post.)
Try THE CURATOR for a similar style of jacket (also 20% OFF).
CLYDE JACKET gifted years ago ELIZABETH SUZANN (I wear a Small) // 90’s CHEEKY JEANS wash n/a (runs large, wearing a 26) // LIP COLOUR THRILLEST // GREY SLIPPERS gifted years ago (TTS)
LOOK 3
THE FRIEND
FRONT TIED OVER A JUMPSUIT WITH WHITE MINIMAL FLATS
The longer length of these shirts makes them ideal for front knots!
THE FRIEND SHIRT gifted in 2017 POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (code will auto apply via any links in this post)
JUMPSUIT gifted years ago HDH (wearing a small) // DAY GLOVE (TTS, review here) // UNDONE LIP COLOUR // LUMEN NECKLACE (made in Canada)
LOOK 4
THE PHILOSOPHER
BUTTONED UP TO THE TOP OVER AN EASY TROUSER WITH BIRKENSTOCKS & A SWEATER OVER THE SHOULDERS
I like to do up the top few buttons and leave the rest open over a chino or trouser for a creative and stylish feel.
THE PHILOSOPHER SHIRT bought by me POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (code will auto apply via any links in this post)
Try THE MINIMALIST PANT for a an easy-going trouser (also 20% OFF).
ALPACA CREW gifted s/o BARE KNITWEAR (linked to similar option) // WIDE LEG CHINO (I wear my usual size 4 and these look even comfier) // ARIZONA BIRKENSTOCKS (TTS) // STARDUST LIP COLOUR // TORTOISE FRAMES
LOOK 5
THE FRIEND
TUCKED INTO FADED BLACK JEANS WITH SNEAKERS & A LONG TRENCH
Didn’t think you’d ever catch me in a scrunchie!
THE FRIEND SHIRT gifted in 2017 POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (code will auto apply via any links in this post)
BARONNE DUSTER gifted years ago ESBY APPAREL (wearing XS, on sale!) // AUTHENTIC STRETCH CIGARETTE JEANS style discontinued linked to similar (TTS wearing a 27) // TREE RUNNERS (TTS) // SCRUNCHIE gifted // UNDONE LIP COLOUR // LUMEN NECKLACE (made in Canada)
LOOK 6
THE PHILOSOPHER
OPEN OVER A WHITE FITTED TEE WITH FLOATY PANTS & COZY SLIPPERS
I like wearing these oversize shirts open over something a bit cropped and fitted for some dynamic layering.
THE PHILOSOPHER SHIRT bought by me POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (code will auto apply via any links in this post)
CROPPED TEE old (linked to similar cut but longer) // SILK FLORENCE PANT ELIZABETH SUZANN (wearing a Med Reg) // HEADBAND // UNDONE LIP COLOUR // SHEARLING SLIPPERS (I wear a US7 and got the 7.5)
LOOK 7
THE FRIEND
OPEN OVER A JUMPSUIT WITH SLIPPERS & A BLANKET SCARF
When it’s not quite warm enough for a sleeveless jumpsuit, these shirts are the perfect layer, made even cozier with a big shawl over top.
THE FRIEND SHIRT gifted in 2017 POWER OF MY PEOPLE // Made in Canada // Fit is oversize, I wear an XS // $165 CAD $132 CAD with code: STYLE_BEE (code will auto apply via any links in this post)
JUMPSUIT gifted years ago HDH (wearing a small) // CANADA SCARF // GREY SLIPPERS gifted years ago (TTS)
THANKS FOR TUNING IN!
Which of the 7 looks is your favourite?
For even more styling ideas, check out this post and this post too.
STYLE BEE READERS SAVE 20% OFF ANY POWER OF MY PEOPLE ORDER* WITH ‘STYLE_BEE‘
CODE WILL APPLY AUTOMATICALLY. VALID THROUGH MAY 11TH.
*Discount code will apply automatically when you follow a link above and is valid for 20% Off from now through May 11th, 2020. Discount applicable on full-priced styles only.
This post is produced in partnership with POWER OF MY PEOPLE and contains affiliate links. No new product was received in exchange for this coverage but Style Bee earns a commission on sales made using the reader discount code (at no additional cost to customers). Thanks for supporting the independent brands that support Style Bee!
Hey Lee!
I’m wondering about your thoughts about the new pants that were released. They seem quite wide but look like they would be flattering due to high waist and fabric. Have you tried them out?
Julia
Hi Julia, I didn’t try the Minimalist pant but I really like the pared down trouser design and agree the rise looks perfect and the fabric is gorgeous. I really like the look of them and I know Jessica would only release a style she really felt was unique and special. Personally, I just find pants that are more of a culotte shape with a shorter inseam don’t get as much use outside of the warmer months in my closet. If they were a few inches longer I’d be trying them out for sure! I think they’re such a smart and harmonious addition to the POMP collection. I hope that helps!
Totally love Look 4! I tried rocking my Bare sweater like that after seeing the post and I love it for around the house cozy!
Yay! It’s the perfect little shawl when you don’t need a whole extra layer 🙂
I just wanted to say I am so inspired by your sponsored posts featuring pieces you have had for several years. You always show these tops in a fresh way, showing you don’t need new pieces, just creativity to breathe fresh life into one’s wardrobe. Thank you!
Then I must follow up with a consumption question – have you tried POMP’s pants? They look awesome and I am intrigued by the fabric. If you did try them, what did you think?
I also just wanted to say I’m wearing your look 5 today and feel like a total work from home boss today. I wouldn’t have thought of pairing this shirt (I have the cognac stripe from last summer) and the duster, and they fit together like a dream. Thank you!
Amazing! I love it! xo
Thank you Lindsey, that means so much!
I didn’t try the Minimalist pant but I really like the pared down trouser design and agree the fabric is gorgeous. Personally, I find that pants that are more of a culotte shape with a shorter inseam don’t get as much use outside of the warmer months. If they were a few inches longer I’d be trying them out for sure! I think they’re such a smart and harmonious addition to the POMP collection. I hope that helps!
If you have thoughts you’d like to share, I’d love to hear how you’re approaching seasonal wardrobe planning during the pandemic. Because for me, I’m finding that the reality of my clothing needs are shifting a lot (more comfy clothes, fewer work clothes, no socializing clothes), but of course I’m also trying to build a closet that works for me long-term. So I don’t just want to go out and get a million pairs of leggings and sweatshirts, only to find I want to get rid of them all at the end of this.
If you are adding anything to your wardrobe now, I’d love to hear how you’re thinking about wearing and styling it now and in the future.
Also I love Power of My People so much and AM actually wearing their shirts (with leggings) these days–ordered the Femme in proper fit last week and am eagerly awaiting its arrival!
Hey Abbey, That’s a really great question/topic. I don’t have any definitive answers since closet planning is always so individual but I’m still planning my to shop for things I had on my list pre-pandemic, as long as they’re versatile enough to wear at home now and then in the future too. I’m also taking this time to really test the options I have within my loungewear and also see how the rest of my closet transitions too. I’ll definitely be thinking about this more and will maybe do a post. Thanks for bringing this up!
So happy to hear that about POMP and that you have a Femme en route. That colour is amazing! xo