StreetStyle Vancouver: February 17, 2007

Classically trained pianist Adriun knows that accessories make the outfit - especially a well-chosen hat. And when your daily outfit depends on your mood and intuition, it helps to have more than just one great hat to choose from.  Known to some as "The Hat Lady", Adriun has enough to wear a different topper each day for two months, without a repeat. The inspiration for this outfit? Spring, rebirth, and a sense of inner and outer peace.

I spotted Adriun on her way past one of her other favorite shops, The Tie Rack (797 Thurlow St).  In a sea of shoppers wearing jeans, and down jackets with faux-fur trim, she definitely stood out with a style all her own - far removed from the typical Robson St vibe. What caught my eye was her luxurious combination of black and burgundy velvet pieces, accentuated by a bright white umbrella and elegant vintage jewelry.  She describes her sensibility as Victorian, with a retro '30's or '40's twist. She admires Audrey Hepburn - not only for her classic style but also for her gracious personality both on and off the big screen.

A strong, decisive shopper, Adriun is not one to spend hours searching for the right dress for a big night. In her words, "women today do it backwards". She prefers to let the perfect pieces find her instead - and has over the years built up a large collection of clothes, accessories and vintage jewelry to pick and choose from - at a surprisingly small price. Her favorite places to shop include Winners, Premier (where she gets an employee discount) and Edie's Hats on Granville, where she is often seen playing beautiful melodies in the shop window. Instead of buying items because of the name on the label, she chooses clothes that fit into her strong sense of personal style - proof positive that it doesn't have to cost a fortune to look fabulous.