Author

Mandi Gould

Mandi Gould is half of "Geoff & Mandi" from Stepping Out Vintage. She's a vintage enthusiast, swing dancer, event organizer, and marketer. When she's not busy dressing up, you'll find her at home with her two birds and chihuahua in St. Catharines, ON, Canada.

Past Events

Gangsters, Grifters & G-Men: The Prohibition Era

by Mandi Gould April 28, 2023

written by Mandi Gould

Our good friend Dean who is an important part of all our Stepping Out Vintage outings is throwing an event and you should attend!

Gangsters, Grifters & G-Men: The Prohibition Era

SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 2023 AT 7 PM – 11 PM

A Prohibition Era themed fundraising event featuring live traditional jazz performed by THE JAZZ GANGSTERS.

Shawn & Ed Brewing Company

65 Hatt Street, Dundas, ON, Canada, Ontario

Tickets: $30.00 (includes taxes and fees)

Dressing in vintage period style is strongly encouraged!

Prizes for Best Dressed
50/50 Draw
White Elephant Auction
Trivia
Pass the Pineapple
Bail or Jail
Giveaways
Bake Sale
Bullet Count
Brewery Tour
Photo Booths
Beer and Wine available for purchase
In-house Beer Pies available for purchase.

Proceeds from the event are in support of the Hamilton Alzheimer’s and Alzheimer’s Society Music Project.

TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE

*All sales for ticketed events are final and non-refundable.

April 28, 2023

CANCELLATION NOTICE: The Vintage Easter “Parade”

by Mandi Gould January 22, 2023

written by Mandi Gould

Photo by Henry Chan, 2012

The Vintage Easter Parade (Easter Stroll) will be taking place in Toronto on Sunday, April 9th

Cancellation Notice

Dear vintage and style enthusiasts,

We’ve made the difficult decision to cancel the Easter Parade that we had been planning to revive post-pandemic. The reality is that we are just too busy to do it justice.

Thank you for your interest and understanding,
Mandi & Geoff

January 22, 2023

Excursions Fashion & Style Featured Travel

Fascinating Voyage with Dandy Wellington & Ahoy Vintage Cruises

by Mandi Gould November 8, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

We recently got back from Dandy Wellington’s Fascinating Voyage with Ahoy Vintage Cruises. I was involved with the marketing and had the pleasure of coordinating with Dandy as a social convenor.

It was a terrific once-in-a-lifetime trip and I’m so glad that we were able to share the experience with about 120 other people. The spirit of the event was #vintagestylenotvintagevalues and from the point of view of the guests, I’d ay it was a great success.

Geoff was the event videographer. Here are the videos from the event:

Here are just a few photos:

November 8, 2022

Excursions

Niagara Polo 2022!

by Mandi Gould September 14, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

Every two years, Niagara is host to a wonderful polo game. In this video, Geoff and Dean attend and give us a glimpse of the action, style, and amazing hats on display.

September 14, 2022

Past Events

2022 Stylish Sunday on Toronto Island

by Mandi Gould May 21, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

Sunday, July 17th, 2022 in Toronto

Stylish Sunday is a day for you to dress up, enjoy the summer weather, and show off your personal style!

We’ll be taking the ferry to Toronto’s Centre Island for a day of strolling and socializing. Lots of opportunities for taking great pictures in a fun park setting.

This event will take place in Toronto. Looking for the event in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Click HERE.

Whether you’d like to dress in vintage fashion, modern chic, everyone is welcome. Dress to impress!

https://youtu.be/ipJoOAMM6Ko

Group Photos: 2:30pm to 3pm

We’ll gather near the fountain between 2:30pm and 3pm for group photographs and then we’ll proceed on an organized stroll. The fountain can be found just over the bridge after you pass the amusement park area.

You can sail to the Island at any time of day and enjoy the many activities available including bike rentals, the amusement park, etc. There are food venders on the island or you’re welcome to bring your own picnic.

The only cost associated with the event is the ticket for the ferry ride.

This promises to be a fun filled, relaxing, welcoming event for those who love to dress up and make friends. Don’t miss it! And be sure to RSVP so we have an idea of how many people will be joining us!

CLICK HERE TO RSVP

#StylishSundayTO

Stay informed:

Join the Facebook Event

Q&A

Q. What if it rains that day?

A. If there is light/intermittent rain on the day of the event, we will proceed. Bring an umbrella and/or raincoat! However, if looks to be really pouring or storming, we will cancel the event. Sign up for updates and follow us on social media (Facebook and Instagram especially) to stay informed.

Q. What should I wear?

A. While many people may choose to dress in a vintage style, everyone is welcome to interpret “style” in their own way.

This is a chance to express your personal style in whatever way says smart, dapper, or polished to you. Think “Sunday best” and however you interpret that is really up to you.

Q. How much is the event? Do I have to purchase tickets?

A. The event is just a gathering of like-minded people in a public space so it’s free and completely open. However, it would be helpful if you RSVP for a free virtual “ticket” to give us an idea of how many are attending, and that way we can send you updates about weather, etc..

The only cost is the ferry to Centre Island. Tickets are inexpensive ($8.75).

Please refer to toronto.ca for the latest official Toronto Island updates.

Q. How do I get there?

A. The Toronto Island Ferry leaves for Centre Island from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto. Adult tickets are only $8.75 and can be purchased in advance.

The first ferry leaves at 8am with service increasing to every 30 minutes beginning at 11:30am.

As there might be reduced capacity this year due to Covid, we would strongly recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Please note that as of May 2022:

Passengers are required to wear a cloth mask or face covering while waiting in any lineups and waiting areas, and while boarding, travelling and disembarking a ferry vessel. Ferry Services are on a modified schedule with reduced capacity. Tickets are redeemable only on the date of travel selected. The ride will take about 15 minutes. You’ll be arriving at the “Centre Island” dock. **Please refer to toronto.ca for the latest official Toronto Island updates.

Q. What should I do when I get there?

A. This is an open all-day event designed so that attendees can stroll around and meet other stylish folks. Centre Island is small enough that you can walk a self-guided tour in an hour or so. Lots of photo opportunities.

There is also a small amusement park, a petting farm, and a hedge maze.

Here is a map of the island.

Our official group meeting will happen between 2:30pm and 3pm near the central fountain. We’ll be taking group photos and then setting off on a group walk. Be prepared to be photographed!

Q. What time does the event end?

A. After we take our group photos and stroll at 2:30-3:30ish, you are free to stay on the island as long as you like. The last ferry leaves for the mainland at 6:50 pm.

Q. What’s there to eat?

A. You are welcome to bring your own picnic food or you can purchase food at one of the island’s vendors. At the time of writing this in May 2022, Centre Island looks to be offering the Carousel Café, Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co., and Centreville’s many food outlets.

**Please check toronto-islands.ca/restaurants-picnics-bbqs/ for the latest restaurant updates.

Q. Am I allowed alcoholic drinks?

A. The consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed on the Toronto Island Park. You can purchase and consume alcohol at any licensed restaurant on the Island and at the Centreville Amusement Park. **Please check toronto-islands.ca/restaurants-picnics-bbqs/ for the latest restaurant updates.

Q. What COVID protocols are in place?

A. At the time of writing this, the Toronto Island Ferry has Covid protocol that requires passengers to wear a mask while on board. Once at the island, we would ask our group to respect the active City of Toronto guidelines at the time of the event.

**Please refer to toronto.ca for the latest official Toronto Island updates.

Q. Are children welcome?

A. Yes! There are many activities for kids on the island.

Q. Is this an official “City of Toronto” event?

A. No. This is a very unofficial day where like-minded people all go to a public space on the same day. We do not have a “permit” and cannot act outside of the regular rules of the park. Thanks for your understanding.

The event is free but it’s helpful if you would RSVP so that we have a sense of numbers:

May 21, 2022

Past Events

2022 Stylish Sunday in Niagara-on-the-Lake

by Mandi Gould April 30, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

Sunday, August 28th, 2022 in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Stylish Sunday is a day for you to dress up, enjoy the summer weather, and show off your personal style!

This event will take place in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Looking for the Toronto event? CLICK HERE.

We’ll meet in Niagara-on-the-Lake for an afternoon stroll. Lots of opportunities for taking great pictures in this charming and historic area. After, why not join us at the Shaw Festival for the 1922 show?

Whether you’d like to dress in vintage fashion, modern chic, everyone is welcome. Dress to impress!

NOTL Group Photo at 2:30pm

**Please note the time has been updated. We’ll gather near stage in the park at 2:30 PM for a group photograph and then at 2:45 we’ll proceed on a stroll through town and stop for an ice cream.

You can arrive in Niagara-on-the-Lake at any time, just keep in mind that it can be hard to find parking during the summer so give yourself plenty of time.

This promises to be a pleasant, relaxing, welcoming gathering for those who love to dress up and make friends. Don’t miss it! And be sure to RSVP so we have an idea of how many people will be joining us!

Click here to RSVP

#StylishSundayNiagara

1922 show at the SHAW FESTIVAL at 4pm

Why not join us for the 1922 show at the Shaw Festival at 4pm? Details and tickets HERE.

Stay informed:

Join the Facebook event

Q. What if it rains that day?

Q. What should I wear?

A. While many people may choose to dress in a vintage style, everyone is welcome to interpret “style” in their own way.

This is a chance to express your personal style in whatever way says smart, dapper, or polished to you. Think “Sunday best” and however you interpret that is really up to you.

Q. How much is the event? Do I have to purchase tickets?

The event is free but it’s helpful if you would RSVP so that we have a sense of numbers:

April 30, 2022

Excursions Featured

Easter Tea 2022

by Mandi Gould April 17, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

As much as we wanted to hold an Easter Parade this year, it still felt too volatile with Omnicron and we were a bit too busy anyways to make it work. Next year!

But that didn’t mean we wouldn’t dress up. First we took Daisy for a stroll in Grimsby Beach, home of the wonderful gingerbread cottages. Then we went to Niagara-on-the-Lake for afternoon tea at the Prince of Wales. It was a very nice day.

April 17, 2022

Fashion & Style Past Events

2022 Toronto Vintage Easter Parade

by Mandi Gould April 5, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

Photo by Henry Chan, 2012

Hi everyone, we wanted to let you know that unfortunately we have decided not to do the Toronto Vintage Easter Parade this year.

However, you are still welcome to post photos on Instagram using the hashtag #TorontoVintageEasterParade if you do dress up. We will re-share your photos to the @steppingoutvintagetoronto Instagram account.

We hope to resume this in 2023.

_____________________________________________________

The Toronto Vintage Easter “Parade” Walk, aka. a promenade-style “Stylish Sunday” walk, in downtown Toronto!

Several years ago we held a walking Toronto Vintage Easer Parade. It was a lot of fun so we’re reviving it! We’ve been delayed by the pandemic but we are hoping to make a return in 2023.

SIGN UP FOR UPDATES

2023 – Sunday, April 9th

Dress up in your favourite outfit and go for a stroll on Easter Sunday. From vintage to modern, cosplay to chic, whimsical to elegant, it’s up to you! All welcome. **Hats encouraged.

1:30pm – Meeting Location: Downtown Toronto, TBC – details will depend on health and safety protocols and limits for outdoor activities in April.

? CLICK HERE TO RSVP

The event is free but it’s helpful if you would RSVP so that we have a sense of numbers.

Please note that this is a social day where people get dressed up in the tradition of the New York City Fifth Avenue Easter Parade. This is NOT a parade with floats. It’s people dressing up, walking around, and having some social fun. It’s a free informal meetup. All welcome!

We will have both a main plan as well as a rain plan. For light rain, please bring an umbrella. In case of heavy rain, we’ll meet at Union Station instead and ride the subway together. We will notify everyone who signs up here by email of any news and changes. ANYONE CAN DRESS UP AND JOIN IN!

Drop your email for event details:

April 5, 2022

Fashion & Style

Brand shout out: Heart of Haute

by Mandi Gould February 15, 2022

written by Mandi Gould

I have a little obsession. It’s the Estelle blouse from Heart of Haute. I love a lot of their things, everything is excellent, but I’m particularly in love with anything that ties at the neck and this blouse delivers. I have more of them than I should admit in various solids and prints. They’re absolutely my favourite. Here are some photos of just a few from my collection:

I also have a couple of Diva Suits from Heart of Haute, which are fabulous. I have a blue one and also put in a custom order to have one made in houndstooth.

Diva Suit by Heart of Haute. Photo by Summer Leigh Photography.

Here’s a business photoshoot I did wearing the Diva Suit in houndstooth:

How could I forget two of my favourite summer dresses? This is a pink gingham that I absolutely adore:

And this one ties at the neck, quite a lot like the Estelle blouses. How could I resist? By the way, I love the high neck because it means don’t have to put sunscreen on my chest area, which burns very easily.

I also really like the cropped Dapper Blazers. They’re so handy! I find them a practical alternative to sweaters and look really good as an extra layer of warmth with high waisted skirts and dresses. This is the Dapper Blazer in cream, which was also a custom order, but I also have it in red and black:

I just love their stuff. Great quality, practical materials, a little touch of vintage, a little whimsy, great colours and cuts. If you haven’t checked them out before, I highly recommend them! heartofhaute.com

February 15, 2022

Fashion & Style

In love with Vivien of Holloway

by Mandi Gould June 21, 2021

written by Mandi Gould

For years I had admired Vivien of Holloway dresses, and when I finally noticed that they had a beautiful honey coloured yellow, I knew it was finally time to buy my first dress.

I already owned some of their separates, and the quality is superb. The new Nadine 1940s style did not let me down. The quality is excellent and the cut is just so elegant!

Shortly after acquiring the Nadine dress, they had a sale and I couldn’t resist also grabbing the Lana dress in rust. I absolutely love it.

As the Marketing Director for Ahoy Vintage Cruises, I’ve also been lucky enough to arrange a small discount. Use code “AHOYVINTAGE” at checkout and save 10%.

June 21, 2021

Newer Posts

Older Posts