Weekly Roundup: We're Not The Only Ones

We're not the only ones keeping up with the Prime Minister's style.

CBC published a story this week on Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau's effect on Canadian fashion.
Click here to read the story.

The Ottawa Citizen believes the Trudeaus will help the fashion industry.
Here is their story.

Maclean's are intrigued with Prime Minister Trudeau's socks.
Justin's socks appeal.

Last but not least, the Montreal Gazette found Prime Minister Trudeau was voted one of the best dressed in 2015 by the Financial Times.
Click here to read about it, and to see who else made the cut.

We also want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Interim Leader Rona Ambrose's Best Looks for 2015

As you may know the CPC have a new Interim Leader Rona Ambrose. We want to congratulate Ms. Ambrose for her new role for the party.

Hon. Rona Ambrose seems to have always had impeccable taste to her style and fashion choices. She has some of the best jackets out of anyone on the Hill. Ambrose tends to pull off very tailored silhouettes in dark deep colours with small accents. If she is in seen a lighter colour, the garment tends to have plentiful texture and weight to it. 

We wish her the very best in the new year, for the new and refreshed party!

Here are our favourite looks of hers in 2015:

(Our number 1 pick. What makes this outfit even better is the fact Ms. Ambrose pairs the dress and skirt with a platform bootie. A pump, would have been okay, but the bootie amps up the coolness.)

(We want to shop in her closet. This jacket phenomenal.)

(Love the zipper details.)

(A simple blouse would be predictable, but the patterned gray neutral freshes this look up while keeping it effortless and polished.)

(This look is stylish, corporate, feminine, flattering, and appropriate for her job and here lies the proof you can look professional without being boring.)

(A bold look as Ms. Ambrose pulls it off so well with the detail around the neckline, almost like a scarf.)

If you like Ms. Ambrose's style we recommend Canadian label judith + charles for similar suits, jackets, and skirts.

#mactownhall Recap and Selfie

It was a fun filled day for Maclean's Town Hall with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Questions both serious and light-hearted were asked from the audience, online, and journalists from various media outlets owned by Rogers.

Highlights: Justin's bold and bright striped socks.

Significance: With his rolled up dress shirt sans jacket paired a slim dress pant gives off the casual, and approachable vibe with is perfect for the setting of the town hall atmosphere.

Overall: We've seen this look before from PMJT, and we are glad it's become a staple tried-and-true look.

A cute way to end it was our group selfie shot taken by the Maclean's team so each us could have one with the PM. -- Jessica

#mactownhall with PMJT

We are delighted to announce our Editor-in-Chief Jessica Eritou will be attending Maclean's Town Hall with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tomorrow in the audience at the National Arts Centre in downtown Ottawa.

Maclean's

Jessica hopes to have photos from before and after event (as photos and cellphones are not permitted) and a recap of the afternoon session. 

What You've Been Waiting For: The Vogue Spread

This afternoon Vogue decided to publish Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's story online. The piece is easy to read, and gives lots of personal anecdotes, with an inside look at his relationship with his wife Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau. The story is great for someone who may not be familiar with Justin's background (aka Americans).

Vogue.com

Highlights: To begin, the photos were taken by Norman Jean Roy which is already a big deal. The gorgeous Oscar De La Renta dress on Sophie. 

Significance: Justin is in a suit and tie again, which is what he seems to look best in. Again he works off of a blue palette (rarely seen in gray), with a powerful statement piece using a red tie. Sophie is wearing a dress by Oscar De La Renta, again styled by Jessica Mulroney who works with Toronto's The Room. For the couple's photo, the blue dress and blue shirt and slacks show unison for their relationship for the intimate photo. The dress is very well suited for Vogue's vibe and readership. 

Overall: We're sad to see only two photos for this story. As well we were hoping to see photos of Parliament than a cement backdrop, but beggars can't be choosers. If Barack Obama lands numerous GQ covers, why can't we have Vogue? 

2015 Holiday Gift Guide

A Note From the Editor

Etsy.ca

The best gifts tend to be things you wouldn't normally buy for yourself. I've curated a few items I thought would speak volumes to those who enjoy fashion, and follow politics in Canada as well as south of the border. As much as we may want to buy an adorable Obama pillow for our POTUS-loving sister from Etsy, we have a few gift ideas that will stand the test of time, and can still show off the love of politics in a much more discreet and stylish way.

- Jessica Eritou

Sentaler.com

Sentaler's Baby Alpaca Scarf
For the majority of Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau's public appearances, stylist Jessica Mulroney chose Canadian luxury label Sentaler for her sophisticated coats on multiple occasions. The Sentaler scarf can be worn every day and can keep you toasty during our cold and bitter Canadian winters.

HoltRenfrew.com

Jo Malone's Red Roses Travel Candle
This doesn't have any political affiliation, but needs to be included in the guide. Small and compact, but full of fragrance and delight. Beauty guru's worldwide are fans of Jo Malone and your gift recipient will be appreciative of its wholesome and luscious ambience once it's lit up. Due to its small size as the title explains, it is perfect for someone who travels too.

For the Liberal - Brooch Boyfriend's Justin Trudeau brooch
Perfect for pinning on a scarf, or even just leaving it next to your makeup table, this adorable Justin Trudeau brooch is for the ultimate Liberal fanatic. Please note: due to high demand, the company is no longer accepting custom brooches for the Christmas season, may we suggest to still gift with a picture of the JT brooch with a note saying "Coming Soon", as it is something to look forward to as it's on the way.

Etsy.ca

For the NDPer - Tommy Douglas pin
This is a similar idea just from the Opposition.

Amazon.com

For the Conservative - Brian Lilley's "CBC Exposed"
Former Sun News Network host, now The Rebel co-founder and correspondent Brian Lilley wrote an insightful look on the CBC media landscape from his standpoint. As Amazon explains, "CBC Exposed is a book like no other. This book takes on the holy grail of the Canadian media landscape and lays bare the truth about CBC... This book does what the consensus media cowards are afraid to do, tell the truth about CBC. From reporting driven by vendettas to outright biases against conservatives, gun owners, Israel and any other group that doesn't fit their vision of Canada, CBC Exposed is a call to action to rein in this broadcasting giant. Once you read this book you too will be convinced that the only way to tame the beast is to sell it."

BarbieJones.com

For the Republican - Barbie Jones' GOP Red Elephant Necklace

Perfect for recipient's next Republican fundraiser this non-partisan jewellery maker has a bundle of items and accessories for men and women.

BarbieJones.com

For the Democrat -  Barbie Jones' Blue Donkey Silk Tie

Again, from the same designer, this piece is a great conversation starter. As well, this silk tie has a matching bow tie and pocket square. 

Independent.co.uk

For everyone - David Axelrod's "Believer: My Forty Years In Politics"
No matter which party you belong to, we think David Axelrod's latest book is for anyone interested in politics (Canadian or American), as he was his campaign manager from the very beginning and the mastermind behind Obama's idea of "CHANGE". The book follows Axelrod's life through the ups and downs of the campaign and his time in the Obama Administration.

Lights Along Ottawa's Elgin Street

"Subtle" Socks With Patriotic Pride

Twitter

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was spotted wearing some very patriotic looking red and white maple leaf dress socks as he arrives at his First Minister's meeting in Ottawa last week on November 23.

Yahoo! Finance Canada

If you like bold socks may we suggest a Canadian company, Socks By William. They have a bold red striped pattern that can show off your own loyal, patriotic pride.

Similar:
DK6 - Socks by William
http://www.socksbywilliam.com/products/dk6

Roots' Mens Maple Cabin Slipper Sock
http://www.roots.com/ca/en/mens-maple-cabin-sock-slipper-14020826.html?cgid=mensSocks&start=5&selectedColor=008#start=5

PMJT Meets The Queen, Sophie Sports Sentaler Again

HuffPost Canada

Still on the international tour, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a stop to visit Queen Elizabeth II, as well as British Prime Minister David Cameron.

HuffPost Canada

What seems to be like a staple now, Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau wore another Sentaler coat. For today's event, Sophie wears the coat in a camel colour, with another Erdem dress. To tie it all together, she also sports Gianvito Rossi shoes, as told to the Huffington Post by her stylist Jessica Mulroney.

According to the Ottawa Citizen, Justin, and his family also made the news when Birks released a press release regarding Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau's selection of jewelry, including a pavé diamond Canadian stoned, conflict-free maple leaf brooch.

Huffington Post Canada

Last but not least, Sophie's plaid coat on arrival to the U.K. is from yet another Canadian label (we are loving the support), Moose Knuckles.

Highlights: If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The Sentaler coat is timeless, and always appropriately conservative enough for important public appearances. As well, Sophie's Moose Knuckles jacket is relaxed and fun for a long plane ride from Canada. Although we aren't a fan of the loud plaid pattern it was refreshing to see her in something casual for a change. Her hat upon arrival helped beat the ever changing London weather as well, protecting her blowout.

Appealing To: Coat enthusiasts.

Significance: Yet again, the Sentaler coat is the right for the occasion, as well as supporting many Canadian designers for the Trudeau's European trip abroad. Next we'd like to see some Canadian pumps, perhaps?

Overall: Excellent. Hope to see some Canadian footwear too.

You can find Sophie's brooch here, from Birks, and her camel coat from here from Sentaler, and her plaid jacket here from Moose Knuckles.

The Significance Behind APEC's Attire

The Globe and Mail

If you've seen the news today, you may be wondering why all of the leaders arrived in a distinct style of shirt as they made their entrance into the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Summit. For each the country that hosts, summit attendees may have the opportunity to dress in the country's cultural clothing in the traditional group family photo.

We look further into this year's garment. 

Highlights: Justin Trudeau along with other world leaders (including Barack Obama) wore the national formal attire of the Philippines for the opening of the APEC Summit in Manila. The traditional formal wear is called the Barong Tagalog, which is often seen at weddings and ceremonies in current day fashion and is often made with silk and leaf fibers. The garment is supposed to be worn untucked overtop of an undershirt. The barong also has feminized versions over the years so it is no longer associated with just menswear. 

Appealing to: Everyone who is excited to be at the summit, and the rest of the world watching. 

Significance: This is a great way to educate others reading and watching the news regarding Filippino culture, as most are probably curious to see what this shirt is all about. The barong is also a great icebreaker for other world leaders to talk about their experiences wearing something like this, perhaps for the first time. 

POTUS, Barack Obama (L), sits down for the formal dinner. The Globe and Mail

Overall: Happy to see the Philippines chose to do it this year, as some countries opt out. Again, this is great for unity, and that awesome family photo. 

Memorable moments from previous APEC Summits:
2014, Bejing.

Buzzfeed

2008, Peru

Buzzfeed

The PM Wears Prada

Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West are in serious competition. According to Maclean's, Prime Minister Trudeau and his wife Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau were photographed for the January issue of Vogue. It was also reported the photoshoot took place in the Library of Parliament as a Vogue photographer (unconfirmed) came to visit the couple. 

The shoot took less than an hour to do as it was also closed off to the public, while the new MPs were on tours as well.

We are unsure if this will be in the American issue of Vogue with Anna Wintour as Vogue has several international editions. Ms. Wintour's publication recently published an online article regarding Trudeau's feminist ideology.

Paris

By Jean Jullien

Get the Look: Sophie's Coat on Remembrance Day

Image: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau with her husband, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid their respects today in Ottawa for Remembrance Day at the National War Memorial downtown.

Styled by Jessica Mulroney (yes, same Mulroney family - she's married to etalk's Ben Mulroney) and the help from Hudson's Bay The Room, Sophie wore a tailored gray coat and weather appropriate Chloche hat for the off-and-on rain we were expecting in Ottawa.

Highlights: The muted gray-on-gray look from Sophie's hat, to her turtleneck, to her coat. Simplicity and monochromatic at it's best. The soft black and grey accents from the Chloche hat are tied in with the buttons on the coat, which match her leather gloves and boots.

Significance: The monochromatic grayscale also allows her poppy to stand out and make an impact on the important day. This is a more serious ceremony, so by choosing to wear something more conservative and muted is in very good taste rather than something loud and attention grabbing. 

Overall: Very polished, and very respectable.

This coat is by the same label Sentaler, Sophie wore for the Swearing-In ceremony as it was too styled by Jessica.

Shop the Look
Long Coat with removable Baby Alpaca Fur Collar (Exact)
http://ca.sentaler.com/products/sen15250-B-GRY?prevInfo=ALL%20ITEMS:/catalog/All-Items

Vero Moda Belted Wrap Coat (Similar)
http://ca.nextdirect.com/en/gle62s3?AddToBagStatus=Success#L37055

Lest We Forget

Image: live-breathe-create.com

Cool and Casual for We Day

For their first public appearance after the swear in ceremony, Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau kept it cool and casual for Ottawa's We Day on Nov. 10 at the Canadian Tire Centre.

Highlights: Sophie wears a cozy black knit, with tight gray trousers. Justin in business casual sans jacket with a dress shirt, slacks, tie and a nice watch.

Appealing to: The young attendees.

Significance: Fresh off from swearing in a week ago, the couple looks comfortable in both their outfits. Since the event is centred around youth and entertainment featuring music from Simple Plan, the two seem relaxed, and energetic with enough movement in their clothing. If they wore something more stiff (like a sheath dress and suit), they would look stuffy at an event like this with all the dancing, and energy from the crowd in the day time. Also notice the gray tone in Justin's trousers compliment Sophie's. 

Overall: We are used to public appearances with dresses and suits so this is a refreshing look for the duo. Well done.

Shop the Look

Sophie's sweater (similar)

http://www.amazon.ca/CASHMERE-Cashmere-Pullover-Cable-knit-Crewneck/dp/B00QN3VD7M/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1447273425&sr=8-10&keywords=black+cashmere+sweater+women

Justin's shirt (similar)

https://www.jcrew.com/ca/mens_category/dressshirts/ludlowdress/PRDOVR~99467/99467.jsp?color_name=fairweather-blue

Harper's Chef Hangs Up Apron at 24 Sussex

Image: Reuters

According to the Ottawa Sun, Tim Wasylko Stephen Harper's chef whose cooked for world leaders, MPs, and staffers alike has been served a pink slip and will be leaving the staff.

Wasylko was on board for five years as the Trudeaus have someone else in mind.

The former chef recalls one of his toughest days, being on the Hill on Oct. 22 cleaning out the kitchen to feed everyone on lockdown with lots of chili and ordering 60 pizzas. Harper thanked him graciously the next day for his hard work.

So what was it like feeding the family? As told to the Ottawa Sun, the Harpers had requested home-style meals instead of decadent, luxurious ones. Lots of meatloaf, taco nights, chicken pot-pie, and mashed potatoes.

Wasylko, a former Algonquin College instructor has he has been getting numerous offers since his depature.

We wish Wasylko the best on his future endeavours!

JT and Peter Mansbridge's Bromance Moment

Image: YouTube

CBC's The National did a great piece with a behind-the-scene's look at Nov. 3. We got a glimpse of the morning, Justin's new office, and the more personal moments as he takes his kids around his new work space. Although the news outlets covered the majority of the ceremony, this was a refreshing take as it was almost part-documentary and part-reality television as moments seemed to have looked like they were shot with a GoPro.

A memorable lighthearted moment is when Peter Mansbridge and the PM get into the car with Justin asking if they have the same tie. The two check the labels, and sure enough they both have the same one from BOSS. Cute bromance, you two.

You can see more from his day here

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=VE1WHg5-Hws

Shop The Look

BOSS Neat Silk Tie in Navy (Exact)

http://www.harryrosen.com/accessories/ties,-pocket-squares-formal/boss/neat-silk-ties/p/05272929

Shlax&Wing Navy Silk and White Dotted Tie

http://www.amazon.ca/Shlax-Wing-Skinny-Necktie-White/dp/B016XWL4V2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1446775250&sr=8-1&keywords=navy+silk+tie

Dress Up With Justin

For those who can't get enough of his stylish image, New York Magazine's The Cut have made an interactive paper doll of the Prime Minister where you can dress him in several specific situational items. The list includes Ugg slippers for the Rideau cottage, Everlast boxing shorts, Michael Kors briefcase, and of course, a Canada Goose bomber jacket.

http://nymag.com/thecut/2015/11/say-bonjour-justin-trudeau-paper-doll.html?mid=twitter-share-thecut#

Have fun, we'll leave you to it.

Get The Look: Sophie wears Montreal designer for Swear-In

Image: Jana Chytilova/Ottawa Magazine

For those who are yearning to grab Sophie Grégoire-Trudeau's November 4th Swear-In Ceremony outfit for themselves, Ottawa Magazine reports Montreal label, Erdem is the label of the dress she wore as she watched her husband Justin Trudeau swear-in to be the next Prime Minister of Canada.

She sported another Canadian label, Sentaler's, luxurious off-white camel coat with a coordinating amazing beaded wool-crepe dress which was delightfully a notch above a cocktail dress, yet still very conservative for inside Rideau Hall.

 

As Ottawa Magazine reports, the dress retails for approximately $3500 CDN.

Sentaler's coat (includes a removable fur collar) retails for $1795 CDN.

Shop The Look - Rideau Hall's Swear In Ceremony
Erdem - Jewel-embellished Wool Crepe Dress
http://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/erdem-jewel-embellished-wool-crepe-dress_238-3001228-20302BEWC/?previewAttribute=Ecru&_$ja=tsid:32619|prd:92295&cm_mmc=AFFIL-_-AWIN-_-92295-_-0RpXOIXA500&awc=3539_1446656147_bde2395996fd6cbeceff40f7a0992f4b&utm_source=Affiliates&utm_medium=92295&utm_term=na&utm_content=na&utm_campaign=na

Sentaler - long coat

http://ca.sentaler.com/products/sen15250s-wh?prevInfo=ALL%20ITEMS:/catalog/All-Items

If you like Sophie's coat but rather have it in an alternative colour, this coat is available in black and red
Belted Camel Coat
http://www.amazon.ca/Womens-Ladies-Stunning-Belted-Camel/dp/B014DUX20W/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1446667137&sr=8-7&keywords=women+dress+coat

Get The Look: Throwing Shades

Image: Sean Kilpatrick/Canadian Press

Highlights: A day before his major Swear-in, PM to be Justin Trudeau was seen wearing the previous sports jacket he wore in his VICE interview back in May 2015 (which we really love), while keeping it cool with a business casual look with a soft blue dress shirt and blue denim while he make a quick appearance before his big day at Rideau Hall on November 4. We don't often see him in shades, and we are loving thie vintage Don Draper-esque aviator shades. 

Appealing to: Anyone gearing up for the big day. 

Significance: As we expected Justin to wear a suit in the swear in, this is a nice look to change it up a bit. How often do we get to see him in denim? This shows us a more relaxed smooth look and feel to the change in cabinet the following day.

Shop the Look - Shades

Ray-Ban RB3530

http://www.ray-ban.com/canada/en/sunglasses/RB3530-rb3530-gold/8053672453478

American Optical Original Pilot 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000K52NNW?ie=UTF8&tag=primer05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000K52NNW

ASOS Reclaimed Vintage Bio Aviator 

http://us.asos.com/Reclaimed-Vintage-Bio-Aviator-Sunglasses/17y864/?iid=5947541&cid=6519&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&totalstyles=172&gridsize=3&mporgp=L1JlY2xhaW1lZC1WaW50YWdlL1JlY2xhaW1lZC1WaW50YWdlLUJpby1BdmlhdG9yLVN1bmdsYXNzZXMvUHJvZC8.

I know when that Mulcair ring...

If you were wondering what Tom Mulcair has been doing since the election, it turns out he got just as turnt up as everyone else who is loving Drake's new single, "Hotline Bling". The NDP leader appeared on CBC's This Hour Has 22 Minutes for a quick cameo.

This gag is a great way for Mulcair to ease back into the spotlight with a sense of humour after a crushing defeat of the Liberals this past October. 

For the full video:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/tom-mulcair-dances-to-drake-s-hotline-bling-for-22-minutes-1.3302564

Trick-or-Treat featuring Canada Goose

Image: Citynews.ca

Congratulations Justin on your new gig as PM!

I also want to say great choice in your Halloween costume (it took me a few seconds to put two and two together) with Sophie. Thank you for supporting a Canadian company, Canada Goose as well.

VICE News Meets Justin Trudeau

Back in March 2015, Justin Trudeau met up with VICE News to discuss his campaign, and other important topics relevant to Canadian news. This was one of the few times I've seen Trudeau in so much plaid so this ultimately caught my eye. 

Image: YouTube.com

Highlights: That lovely steel blue matching that sports jacket. Paired perfectly with slim grey trouser which matches Vice's Shane Smith's pair coincidently. Clean white dress shirt, and slim tie.
Appealing to: GQ enthusiasts.
Significance: VICE media is catered to younger generations who prefer alternative medium to get their news. It is though Trudeau's team wanted to have him in anything but a "stuffy" suit, way more relaxed, but still very well put together. The business casual look lightens up his image, making him more relatable for the youth vote. For them seeing a PM candidate in something like a blazer is less serious and boring (then perhaps signifying less dry as a personality).

Closing thoughts: I wish he didn't wear the tie to make the interview more casual (thus, giving more of a candid vibe), but I have to give him a break because this appears to be filmed at his work.

Ottawa Citizen Touches on Fashion and Politics

This morning my good friend Andrew sent me this short piece published by the Ottawa Citizen by William Watson. The columnist is a McGill University economics professor who studied the image behind the Liberal team's riding photos.

All of the candidates wear some black shirt or blouse to match the red and black background. It's also important to note what Watson who stated the photos were most likely Photoshopped onto the candidates. If you go on their Liberal website they are wearing completely different clothing.

From my perspective, it seems as though the Liberals want to create a universal image so it appears they are more of a team, rather than individual candidates.

Black is professional, formal, and you look more at the face than the item of clothing they are wearing. They are wearing the clothes, the clothes aren't wearing them. To me, it seems they would rather make their personality shine and give emotions through these photos which focus on the face, rather than their entire ensemble.

Maclean's National Leaders Debate

Justin Trudeau, left, Elizabeth May, Tom Mulcair, and Stephen Harper smile for the cameras for the first debate of the election season. Image: NetNewsLedger.com

Ahhh, the debates. 

It's best to start off this blog off where all four major leaders were in the same room, at the same time. When Maclean's and CityNews hosted the first National Leaders Debate on Aug. 8, thousands of Canadians watched, streamed, and listened to the PM and the three hopefuls go at one another in a tactful manner.

As this blog features a non-partisan view, below you'll find notes on each of the candidate's style choices for this event.

Image: Cbc.ca

JUSTIN TRUDEAU
Highlights: The impeccable fit of the suit. Trudeau's a young guy and has the right build for a trimmer suit. Bigger lapel. Also note, the only one not to wear a pin on a lapel. Sported a rich colour of burgundy for his tie.
Appealing to: Everyone.
Significance: If he chose a red tie, it would have been far too predictable. The burgundy is a subtle nod to his party's colour. As some may say he's just not ready, he presented himself like he is.

ELIZABETH MAY
Highlights: A safe black skirt-suit combo, with the white blouse collar sticking out (faux paus of mine). Glad May went with this and not a trouser as this gives her height and elongates her leg although we couldn't see much of the bottom half behind the podium.
Appealing to: Everyone.
Significance: May needs to show her party can take on the Big Three since the Green party is often left behind in election coverage. By giving her height on television against three already super tall men (height=strong, strong=powerful), May's team may have chose this option to show she can take on the Big Three seen as a subtle way for the viewers.

TOM MULCAIR
Highlights: No orange to be seen anywhere. Mulcair has broad shoulders but can pull off the smaller lapel quite nicely. His awesome chestnut shoes, which again, like May, was stuck behind a podium.
Appealing to: Everyone.
Significance: Mulcair's suit dimensions were perfect to scale. Smaller lapel, thus, wider shirt collar. If your outfit is perfect to scale, you look good and confident. Perhaps Mulcair's team was hoping the viewers caught on to that.

STEPHEN HARPER
Highlights: Classic fit for a conservative guy, of course. Wore his party's colour for his tie.
Appealing to: Everyone.
Significance: Harper can't go wrong with something that is traditional. You want to wear what you feel most comfortable in when you take on a debate like this. The media and viewers can't Harp on him for that. Is this look an ode to traditional values?

Closing thoughts: Everyone kept it safe and what was expected of them.