As a fashion columnist, I am required to be always looking around, seeing what people are wearing and why. But as a Canadian, I am required to cheer for Team Canada with abandonment and be excited about all things red, white, and maple leafed.

You may be aware that the Olympic gear, officially from HBC, has gone over extremely well. I will be the first to admit that I never in my wildest dreams imagined that I would like it, let alone stand in a two-block line, waiting to get my own. There was something about the mix of vintage Canadiana with fresh Olympic hope that the clothing line seemed to capture. And capture it well. With each passing pair of red mittens or vintage toque, I could physically feel my heart lifting.

Matt and Chelsea Morrison were two Canadians who made the gear look good. As with most people who were wandering downtown, breaking out into the national anthem at every chance they got, red was the colour, and typical winter gear with a patriotic flare, was the vehicle.

If you weren’t here, this is what Vancouver 2010 looked like to Canadians.