Toronto-based Tania Tonello takes on each day with style and confidence. Even better yet, she shares her expertise to a large audience as the resident Fashion Expert on Cityline, North America’s longest running daytime TV show for women. It's hard to believe that she faced social anxiety in her past, but like everything Tania does, she proactively dealt with her fears head-on. Her vivacious, playful and fabulous personality makes Tania a chameleon of fashion and we are thrilled to feature this inspiring trailblazer.
What is your favorite quote or life motto?
“What’s yours will find you.” - Imam Ali
Tell us a bit about you.
I’m the youngest of 3 daughters and a retired High School Teacher. I love anything that involves creativity, self-expression, and humor. Traveling also brings me a lot of joy and inspiration.
You’re a stylist, personal shopper, image consultant, fashion expert on Cityline and Breakfast Television, and model/actress. How do you juggle it all?!?! Is it even possible to find some ‘me time?'
Surprisingly, yes! Lately, I’ve been saying “no” to more event invites and taking time for myself to recharge. Also, “me time” ranges from bingeing Netflix to working out, and thankfully, I’m able to start and end most days that way.
When did your love and appreciation for fashion start?
It started when I was a little girl, playing “dress up” in my mom’s clothes and shoes. Fashion Television (shoutout Jeanne Beker) was also instrumental in developing my appreciation for fashion.
What do you love most about what you do?
I love that I get to help people feel like their best selves through fashion. The most rewarding words to hear are, “I would’ve never picked this but I love how it looks!”. I’m pulling people out of their fashion comfort zones and expanding their style limitations. I get to do what I love and help people feel better about themselves…it’s truly a win win.
You’ve accomplished so much already, but to date, what would you consider your greatest accomplishment?
Thank you, it’s been becoming a resident Fashion Expert on Cityline. I grew up watching Cityline and it’s still surreal to me that I’m now a part of North America’s longest running daytime show for women. I worked through a lot of limiting beliefs and fear to audition for the show and get through my first on-air segments.
What are some future goals that you have for you both personally and professionally?
On a professional level, I’m working towards hosting my own style show and starting a non-profit organization in the fashion space. Personally, I’d love to find someone to enjoy the rest of my life with one day. :)
What is one fact that most would not know about you?
Social anxiety got the best of me in my mid 20s. Although I was terrified to speak in front of groups, working as a high school teacher helped to improve my social confidence. I also started taking improv classes at The Second City Toronto which were instrumental in helping me work through my social anxiety.
Living in Toronto, how do you easily transition through the seasonal changes?
I mix classic wardrobe staples with fun and current seasonal pieces. I also organize my wardrobe and closet spaces according to the seasons, storing away pieces that will not be wearable for months. This allows me to focus on current season pieces and dress for each day with more ease.
How would you describe your own personal style?
I’m a style chameleon. I love dressing in formal red carpet looks but when I’m running around a mall, I love being comfortable and stylish in a pair of sneakers and oversized fits. That’s the reason I adore fashion. I can play a different character every day in a different look.
What’s your go-to outfit when you’re pressed for time?
Textured leggings, a graphic tee, an oversized denim jacket, a baseball cap, and sneakers.
What’s your fashion or beauty indulgence?
Formal dresses. I attend a lot of formal events and I love dresses so it’s a dangerous combo for me (haha).
Favorite shoe style/shoe brand?
I know this is a cop-out answer but I don’t have one. My shoe collection couldn’t be more varied! Some of my favorite footwear is second-hand. That said, I love standing *very* tall wearing heels so I would say heels make me feel most confident and powerful.
Who’s your celebrity style crush?
3 words: Tracee Ellis Ross.
Which cocktail best describes your personality?
Oh, this is a tough one! What cocktail doesn’t take itself too seriously but also cares, works hard and loves people?!
If you could have dinner with any three guests, who would they be?
Oprah Winfrey, because she’s woman and boss goals to me, Trevor Noah, because he’s hilarious and I’m trying to marry him, and Jay Shetty, because he’s a walking definition of positivity.
Follow Tania on her style journey!
Instagram: @taniatonello
Pinterest: @tania_tonello
LinkedIn: Tania Tonello