Innholdsfortegnelse for Winter 2025 i Chatelaine

AT THE END OF THE YEAR, it’s natural to take stock of what you’ve achieved, whether it’s a hard-won promotion or running your first 5K. But I’d suggest another metric: joy. In our first-ever Joy Issue, we asked 27 of our favourite Canadians to share their most exuberant moments of the year. And despite the challenges of 2025, not a single person turned us down. Lisa LaFlamme talked about becoming a great aunt, Tracy Moore shared the “peak joy” of daytime dance parties and Jann Arden described meeting the love of her life at an Icelandic writers’ festival. It’s impossible to hear other people recount their happiest moments and not feel uplifted yourself. In that spirit, my own most joyful moment of 2025 happened in Cavendish, P.E.I. I visited the…

I’M A MULTIVITAMIN skeptic who has reported on women’s health for more than two decades, but even I occasionally fall prey to a buzzy headline. Most recently, an article about the relationship between multivitamins and cognitive health sent me straight to the supplements aisle. But before I spent $20 on something I wasn’t sure I needed, I decided to ask a few experts for their advice. Here’s what they told me. Spoiler: You probably don’t need a multivitamin The idea of multivitamins as “nutritional insurance” has been around since the first multis hit shelves nearly a century ago, says Jonathan Jarry, a science communicator at the Office for Science and Society at Montreal’s McGill University. “We’re still buying into that marketing,” says Jarry, whose work involves making scientific research more…

I’M A FITNESS OBSESSIVE and I don’t leave the house without my Apple Watch. But like the Oura Ring, the watch—and its plethora of features, from fall detection to hypertension notifications—is expensive. (The Apple Watch SE 3, the brand’s most affordable offering, starts at $329.) So I put a cheaper and more basic tracker to the test. Here’s how it stacked up. Amazfit Helio Strap Fitness Tracker $140, bestbuy.ca. What it is This screenless black band uses a sensor to monitor heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep quality and more, then feeds the data to an app. It can be synced to other apps including Apple Health and Strava, and like the Apple Watch, it’s subscription-free. It holds a charge for up to 10 days. What I liked The Helio Strap is…

It’s festive, it’s cozy, it’s making a big comeback… we’re talking about plaid, of course! With Burberry and Vivienne Westwood leading the print’s renaissance, we’re seeing both its heritage and quirky sides this winter. More is more when it comes to plaid, so take a cue from the styling at COS and don’t be afraid to mix and match your pieces for a high-impact ensemble.…

Vanilla butter-cream icing, maple caramel crème and tonka bean make for a decadent sweet treat. Caramel, pistachio and vanilla are paired with ginger and sandalwood for a grounded, slightly spicy juice. Neroli and pink pepper give this blend of chantilly vanilla, tonka bean and cocoa shell a sophisticated twist.…

Heaven Scent I’ve long been a fan of Danish fashion designer Henrik Vibskov’s use of bold colours, graphic patterns and exaggerated shapes. At his eponymous label’s Copenhagen boutique, I fell in love with Cedar Root Black, a fresh, woody fragrance with notes of leather, jasmine and black pepper. Flower Power Pico is a boutique dedicated almost entirely to hair accessories, which are displayed in glass cases like bedazzled pastries. I left with a few things, including one of the oversized roseshaped clips that the store is known for. Happy Feet One of my favourite finds were these fun multi-coloured glitter socks from Danish brand Beck Söndergaard that I came across in a gift shop in Tivoli Gardens. I bought four pairs in different patterns. Cold Comfort I couldn’t resist this…

ON a gorgeous day earlier this year, Chatelaine readers and editors gathered for the second-annual Chatelaine Wellness Retreat at Vettä Nordic Spa in Oro-Medonte, Ont. Hosted in partnership with TENA—the world’s leading incontinence brand dedicated to empowering women who experience incontinence to live fearlessly and without compromise—the event delivered both inspiring conversation and the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. To kick off the day, guests enjoyed breakfast overlooking the outdoor Finnish-style spa circuit, before taking advantage of the various hot and cold therapies. At midday, Maureen Halushak, editor-in-chief of Chatelaine, led a candid conversation on how to smash the stigma surrounding aging, menopause, incontinence and more. From there, guests enjoyed a grazing lunch before heading back outdoors to bask in the sun and surroundings. They departed feeling relaxed and reinvigorated—and already…

In its loosest sense, a smorgasbord is simply an array of foods. The Arthurs’ smorg draws inspiration from this concept and scales it down to a single plate. It is our most diverse breakfast dish, a colourful gathering of challah, latkes, scrambled eggs, gravlax (an original feature of the Swedish smorgasbord) and cucumber salad. Here’s how we do it. —Raegan Steinberg, co-founder, Arthurs Nosh Bar Perfect Scrambled Eggs PREP 10 MIN; TOTAL 20 MIN SERVES 4 12 eggs1 tsp salt3 tbsp butter or fat of choice, preferably at room temperature 1. Crack the eggs into a bowl. Whisk them well, prefer ably with an immersion blender to incorporate minimal air, until zero streaks remain. 2. Whisk in salt. Let the eggs sit for 5 to 10 min, which will ensure…

SUMAC IS A VERSATILE SPICE, offering zesty, tangy and fruity notes to savoury and sweet dishes alike. And while it’s commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking, it doesn’t have to be limited to it. What are the origins of sumac? Sumac comes from the dried berries of the Rhus coriaria shrub, which grows abundantly across the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. Interestingly, sumac grows in North America as well. When chef Fadi Kattan of the Toronto Palestinian restaurant Louf first visited the city, he was surprised to find sumac trees growing near the city’s midtown Evergreen Brickworks ravines. At Arbequina restaurant in Toronto, chef Moeen Abuzaid uses sumac sourced from across Jordan (the spice varies in flavour depending on where it’s grown). What is sumac’s flavour profile? “Sumac tastes like…

Welcome to Weeknight Hero—a delicious, slam-dunk recipe you’ll want to cook again and again, any night of the week. Roasted Sweet Potato, Halloumi and Kale Salad PREP 25 MIN; TOTAL 45 MIN SERVES 4 This warm winter salad has it all: crispy kale, roasted sweet potato and salty pops of halloumi. I top it off with pita chips and sumac-pickled onions as a nod to my favourite Middle Eastern salad, fattoush. ½ cup white-wine vinegar1 tsp granulated sugar½ tsp sumac (turn to page 74 for more on sumac)1 ¾ tsp kosher salt, divided1 ½ cups thinly sliced red onion, divided1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and roughly torn1 large peeled sweet potato (300 g), diced into ½-in. cubes (see tip)1 cup canned chickpeas, drained1 ¼ cups cubed halloumi (300 g)6 tbsp…

Best for Coffee Broken Oak Brûlée Bliss A little on the sweeter side, this vanilla-forward liqueur, from Grande Prairie, Alta., pours like a dream into a cup of black coffee. $46, latitude55.ca. Best for Sipping on the Rocks  JD Shore Rum Cream Halifax Distilling Co. makes one of the most delicious cream-based liqueurs we’ve tried, bar none. Boozy, extra creamy and tinged with a subtle spiciness from the rum base, it’s perfect for serving in a short glass with ice. $35, jdshore.ca. Best for Dessert Drizzle Hansen Distillery Morning Glory Thick, rich and laced with chocolate and hazelnut, this Edmonton, Alta.- brewed cream treat has a dessert-coffee kick that would make an excellent ice cream topping or affogato booster. $32, hansendistillery.com. Best Signature Flavour Cabot Trail Maple Cream Sweet and…

CREATED FOR Simplify holiday chaos by creating an Amazon Holiday Gift Registry, which takes the guesswork out of shopping and helps family and friends work within their budget—all while being sure their choice will spark joy. And who knows, you might be inspired to select one of your finds for someone else in your life. LUXURIOUS HOME UPGRADES DeʼLonghi Rivelia Automatic Espresso Machine Itʼs easy to up your at-home barista game with this espresso machine that takes customization to the next level. Plus, it even has an automatic milk frother. Amazon Basics Pinch Pleat Down-Alternative Comforter Wrap yourself in the year-round comfort of this lightweight microfibre comforter set. Perfect for cozy nights during the hectic holiday season and for every season that follows. Google TV Streamer Looking to level up…

Merry and Bright Whether you match your hosiery to your outfit for a statementmaking monochrome look or experiment with daring colour combinations, let a pair of dopamine-boosting tights do all the leg work this holiday season. We swear by Canadian brand Sheertex’s thick, ladder-proof styles. SHEERTEX SEMI-OPAQUE RIP-RESIST TIGHTS IN CHERRY (LEFT) AND WINE (RIGHT), $49 EACH, SHEERTEX.CA.…

A plumping and firming serum with hyaluronic acid, peptides and ceramides in biodegradable capsules designed to maintain the formula’s potency. (They’re great for travel!) Elizabeth Arden Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides Ceramide Capsules, $125 for 60 capsules, shoppersdrugmart.ca. An elegant lip-scrub alternative that pairs chemical exfoliation with hydrating ingredients to smooth dry pouts. The Ordinary PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum, $12, theordinary.com. A rich, fragrance-free moisturizer with a dewy finish by Dieux, the brand co-founded by no-BS beauty expert Charlotte Palermino, which recently launched at Sephora Canada. Dieux Instant Angel Lipid Rich Facial Moisturizer, $62, sephora.com. A genius hot tool that can do it all, thanks to a combo of straightening plates and curved ceramic arms for curls. T3 Micro 2-in-1 Curling Straightener, $280, t3micro.ca.…

This earthy neutral pairs well with other nature-inspired hues to create a tranquil retreat. Universal Khaki by Sherwin-Williams, sherwin-williams.com. A rich blue with endless depth, this serene pick is perfect for a bathroom makeover. Day Spa by Cloverdale, cloverdalepaint.com. Pick this grounding green for a bedroom accent wall or Dark Academia library nook. Muse by BeautiTone, homehardware.ca. Described as a “smoky jade”, this shade of green manages to be sophisticated and snug. Hidden Gem by Behr, behr.ca.…

“I’M DONE,” I thought as I hung up the phone. “I’m never speaking to him again.” After a lifetime of arguments and anger and a blow-up I was certain marked the end, my relationship with my father was over. It wasn’t that simple. Of course. Going “no contact” is having a moment. Counsellors with huge YouTube followings offer advice on how to write a no-contact letter to toxic family members. Reddit forums, such as “raisedbynarcissists,” offer support to people coping with narcissistic parents. In the U.K., the charity Stand Alone offers support and conducts research on family estrangement, while in the U.S., the Cornell Family Estrangement and Reconciliation Project, under sociologist Karl Pillemer, studies how “reconcilers” manage reconnection after periods of limited or no contact. A 2014 Ipsos study conducted…

1. KOKITO Bloomfield, Ont. Kokito—a play on the postal code of owner Shelley Durnin’s nearby cottage—showcases “Canada-forward” gifts including tweed blankets and Nova Scotia-made embroidery kits. kokito.ca 2. CROFT Charlottetown This jewel box of a shop is located in a motel run by owner Meg Ferris’s family. Visit for vibrant made-in-Canada finds and slow-fashion brands. croftshop.ca 3. SLOWLY SLOWLY Halifax With a mix of quirky fashion, accessories, beauty and home goods masterfully curated by owner Hannah Sears, this is the perfect one-stop shop for everyone on your list. shopslowlyslowly.ca 4. BOUTIQUE UNICORN Montreal This Mile-End boutique, founded by Amélie Thellen and Mélanie Robillard, stocks local and international makers and labels. boutiqueunicorn.com…

As daylight hours dwindle and darkness creeps in earlier and lasts even longer, it’s natural for our bodies to crave more rest during winter. Feeling truly refreshed and rejuvenated can feel challenging as we move from season to season, but helping your body adjust doesn’t have to be taxing. Often called the “relaxation mineral,” magnesium is an essential nutrient that calms the nervous system, relaxes muscles and helps the body slip into sleep mode. “Magnesium plays a key role in regulating GABA, a neurotransmitter that lowers anxiety, and balancing cortisol, the body’s stress hormone,” explains an expert from Natural Calm. “Taken consistently, it helps both body and mind unwind, especially at bedtime.” To best optimize your rest this winter, try these tips for creating a sleep-friendly routine so you feel…

AS YOU GET OLDER, your stomach develops opinions. Loud ones. One minute you’re blissfully twirling forkfuls of perfect pad Thai, and the next your digestive system files a formal grievance and cc’s the gas, bloat and heartburn departments. That’s where Gelusil® comes in. For more than 70 years*, its 3-in-1 formula has helped food lovers savour every bite by quickly tackling multiple symptoms—heartburn, acid indigestion, upset stomach and gas—before they spoil the party. Fast relief that’s actually pleasant Gelusil® comes in mint-flavoured tablets that work fast and fit discreetly into a pocket or purse. Take two to four after a big meal and you’re free to keep chatting, laughing and saying yes to pie without a burning throat or a belly that feels like a balloon. The holidays are prime…

There’s something deeply satisfying about the ritual of making eggnog from scratch. It’s creamy and rich, with just the right amount of spice and a silky texture that puts the carton stuff to shame. Whether you spike it or not, it’s a cozy classic worth slowing down for. But behind that smooth sip is a bit of kitchen science. Eggnog is essentially a stirred custard, and getting it right depends on understanding a few simple—but important—concepts. CUSTARD 101 Egg Yolks: The Backbone of Custard Egg yolks thicken eggnog through a process called coagulation. When gently heated, the proteins in the yolks unfold and bond together to form a smooth network that traps liquid—creating that luscious, spoon-coating texture. Too hot, though, and they’ll curdle, leaving you with scrambled egg(nog). It’s crucial…

SHORTCUT CROQUEMBOUCHE PREP 1 HR; TOTAL 1 HR 15 MIN SERVES 8 TO 10 This festive centrepiece uses premade cream puffs, so you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen. Wearing latex gloves is a good idea to protect yourself from the hot caramel while dipping the puffs. Croquembouche is best enjoyed soon after assembly, but can be refrigerated up to 4 hours before serving. ¾ cup toasted sliced almonds or finely chopped pistachios2 ½ cups granulated sugar¼ cup white corn syrup¼ tsp salt1 625-g pkg profiteroles, thawed in refrigerator (about 50)Candied orange peel, cranberries and/or sprinkles to garnish 1. Line two baking sheets with parchment. Place almonds in a shallow bowl. Fill a very large heat-safe bowl with ice water. Set aside. 2. Gently stir sugar with corn…

Trudy Crane @trudy.crane 66, THE LAURENTIANS, QUE. It’s fair to say that ceramist and cookbook author Trudy Crane has a favourite colour. Her affinity for shades of white and cream—often accented with other neutrals—is obvious in the organically shaped dinnerware she crafts for her brand, Lookslikewhite, in the snapshots of her home and wardrobe that she shares on social media, and even in her signature hair hue. “I’ve always gravitated toward this sort of simplicity,” she says. Crane’s aesthetic is undeniably classic, but always with a twist to keep things fresh—an unexpected metallic detail, a sharp pleat or a hot trend that piques her interest. For the holidays, she pairs flowy suiting with a long silk top trimmed with lace, a look borrowed from fashion week street style that brings…

CREATED FOR At just 168 square kilometres, St. Kitts may be small, but it offers a refreshingly expansive experience for travellers seeking equal parts adventure and restoration. Rainforests here are still growing, winding up the slopes of Mount Liamuiga in lush, mist-covered layers. Walk beneath the canopy where birdsong replaces traffic or unwind along beaches that range in colour from champagne to volcanic black. On this island, you’re invited to slow down, breathe deeper and reconnect—with nature, with others and with yourself. Wellness in the Wild Serenity isn’t staged in St. Kitts—it’s part of the living, breathing landscape. The rainforest doesn’t just surround you; it envelops you. The scent of flowering hibiscus hangs in the air, and time seems to stretch out. It’s a place where stillness feels purposeful—and healing…

Every year, one shoe emerges as the party-season favourite. Last winter was all about silver pumps. And this year? We’re slipping on a pair of kitten heels. In the form of a mule, a slingback or a boot, the low-key silhouette is the perfect compromise between comfort and polished glam. A short heel looks impossibly chic paired with anything from wide-leg denim to mini dresses to anklelength skirts—plus, you won’t need to kick off your shoes before you hit the dance floor.…

Polka dots have always had timeless appeal, but now they transcend seasons, too. On Fendi and Altuzarra’s Fall/Winter 2025 runways, dots were rendered in dark hues and luxe materials like faux fur and leather, and brought to life via 3D embellishments. To bring a touch of whimsy to your winter wardrobe, opt for silk, sheer layers or dramatic draping.…

How I Find Joy WRITTEN BY Ann Pornel THE WORLD IS IN ITS FLOP ERA. I'm not typically a pessimist, but there’s no amount of delulu that exists that can convince me otherwise. I also wouldn’t say I’m an optimist—I have five working senses and access to the Internet, after all. But despite 2025 flaming out to absurd lows, I can confidently say that I live a life that is abundant in joy. And that’s all thanks to Little Ann. My job as a comedian means I’m constantly chasing a good time. Comedy has kept me in touch with my inner child—whom I call Little Ann—and it has ingrained in me a “follow the fun” mentality. And there’s no one I trust more to tell me what’s fun than Little…

Jicama and Orange Salad PREP 25 MIN; TOTAL 25 MIN SERVES 6 This tart and juicy salad comes together in minutes and acts as a zippy counterpoint to the rich spiciness of pozole. There’s no oil or emulsifier to dress the salad; make it immediately before serving. Chilling the produce just before prep is a nice touch. 1 medium jicama, peeled and cut into 1-in. cubes, about 1½ cups3 to 4 medium Cara Cara oranges, peeled and sectioned (see tip)2 to 3 ripe avocados, peeled and cut into chunks1 large carrot, peeled and grated½ large cucumber, diced2 to 3 limes, juiced2 tbsp chopped cilantro1 tsp salt1 tsp chili powder 1. Combine jicama, orange sections, avocados, carrot and cucumber in a wide, shallow bowl. Sprinkle with lime juice, cilantro, salt and chili powder.…

MY introduction to the magic of a cookie exchange wasn’t during the holidays, but when I got married. My husband’s extended Italian family has long hosted cookie tables for bridal showers and weddings, a boisterous affair that involves many families bringing trays of cookies to a buffet from which guests fill up take-home bags. It’s lavish, extremely competitive and over time has had to adapt to allergies and dietary restrictions. Nearly 14 years of cookie tables later, here’s what I’ve learned. Hosting a swap means setting (and enforcing) the rules. A cookie exchange has slightly different stakes than a dinner party: You need to ensure everyone can enjoy their spoils safely during and after the event. Send invites at least a month in advance, and have guests drop dietary restrictions and…