Caribou Chronicles: Defining Men’s Winter Style With Pierre Bassene
SOREL x SHARP
Streetwear designer Pierre Bassene is used to adapting to new surroundings. Growing up in Paris’s underground skateboard and hip-hop culture, and now splitting his time between Paris and Toronto, his personal style evolves with every step. In those earlier years every building, graffitied alleyway, and idle railing became a potential means of self-expression. Being immersed in these creatively-driven scenes provided the necessary spark that led Bassene to begin designing his own clothing. What started as a way to develop his unique style soon evolved into a full-fledged streetwear brand.
SHARP sat down with Bassene to get his take on winter fashion, trends, preferences, and how the SOREL Caribou™ boot fits into the current fashion landscape.


What influences your winter style?
Being based between Paris and Toronto — two major cities that experience cold winters — my winter style focuses on staying cozy and warm. I opt for layers made from natural fibers like wool, cashmere, cotton, and mohair, along with garments featuring patterns and color. I avoid dark colours in the winter, I like my outfit to be a tool to fight the cold grey winter weather. I also look for footwear that will keep my feet dry as I go about my day — nothing ruins a great outfit quicker than wet, cold feet.

What winter styling trends are you most excited about this year?
I gravitate towards workwear for inspiration most winters — raw denim, utilitarian pieces, and slightly oversized silhouettes. What excites me most is how winter trends now blend fashion and function seamlessly. Pieces like insulated outerwear and weatherproof boots don’t just perform; they elevate your entire look.
How does footwear, specifically boots, play a role in your styling?
Footwear is more than just the finishing touch; it’s the foundation of an outfit, especially in winter. In Paris, where I bike year-round, boots are essential for tackling unpredictable weather while staying true to my style. A great pair of boots, like the SOREL Caribou™, adds a rugged edge to my workwear-inspired looks while ensuring I stay warm, dry, and comfortable. For me, they’re a perfect mix of practicality and statement-making design.


What do you like about the SOREL Caribou™ boot?
The SOREL Caribou™ style is a standout for me because it combines style, comfort, and performance effortlessly. The sleek design and classic colour palette make it versatile enough to pair with almost any outfit, while the rugged traction handles anything—from snowy mountain trails in the east of France to the wet, slippery streets of Paris. It’s a timeless boot that proves you don’t have to compromise aesthetics for functionality.
Learn more about the SOREL Caribou™ Collection here.