STAFF SPOTLIGHT: SAM

How long have you been at Danali and what makes you come back year after year?

I've been at Danali since 2016—so it's been nine years now, which is kind of wild to think about. I'm coming up on the big one soon.

I’ve stayed because it’s become so much more than just a job. Over the years, I’ve built really meaningful relationships with both coworkers and clients. Getting to know them, hearing about their lives—it’s personal now, and that’s what keeps me coming back.

Favourite thing about working in fashion?

For me, it’s constantly seeing the creative ways people put outfits together — there’s always inspiration. I love observing how people style pieces and then interpreting it in my own way.

At the end of the day, it’s all about how things are worn. I mean, how many different jeans can you design? It’s the way you put things together that makes it interesting.

With Danali specifically, I love that we carry pieces you don’t really find anywhere else in Winnipeg. You get access to European fashion without having to shop online — and that’s pretty cool.

What is a brand that resonates with your overall personal style?

Well, as everybody knows, Wax London is definitely a favourite of mine — that’s my number one. If I had to pick a backup, it’d probably be Reigning Champ. I love the oversized fits they do. I’d also throw in Colorful Standard — I wear their sweatshirts and hoodies almost daily, and that’s what they’re best known for. Those would be the two brands other brands I gravitate toward when I’m not wearing Wax London.

What is one piece from Wax London that you swear by?

I wouldn’t say one specific piece, but definitely a specific pant: the Kurt Trouser. That’s my number one. Every time we get them in, I at least try them on — and usually end up buying them. That’s how good they are.

Wax does both lightweight and heavier versions, plus fun patterns, which they’re known for. I especially like the Jacquard ones and the heavier cotton twill. I’m not kidding — I probably have five pairs.

Plus, they’re super easy to take care of. I just wash them in cold water and hang dry. For a lot of guys, low-maintenance clothes are a big plus.

I hear you like shoes — how many pairs do you have at home?

At home, personally — probably about 30. But then I do have a storage unit where I keep some other ones i've collected over the years but if you ask me how many, it's a secret.

What is your favourite sneaker that you've bought?

I wouldn’t say one specific sneaker, but I was definitely a big Nike fan back in the day — and still am. Lately, I’ve really gotten into New Balance and Salomon, so most of my go-to styles come from those brands.

They blend street style with comfort so well. Plus, sneakers, especially from them, show off a bit of your personality with all the styles and colour ways – that's why I love them.

What is your go to piece to show anybody that comes into the store?

It totally depends on what they come in for, but anything Patrick Assaraf is usually popular with everyone.

For jeans, I usually go with AG Jeans — especially their dark wash styles. They’re super easy to style, whether you want to dress them up with a sport jacket or keep it casual. Plus, they fit a lot of different body types and come in several fits within the same wash, which makes them easy to recommend.

Where do you get your outfit inspiration? If it's not like seeing people come into the store, Is there anywhere you look for outfit inspiration?

I usually get inspiration from how brands style their own models. Sometimes, I just throw pieces together from what I already have and find ways to make it work. 

I don’t really follow creators though — I actually don’t have social media.

If I end up helping you in-store, here’s what you can expect: