Lezlie Oler, the entrepreneur and former lawyer behind the Halifax-based boutique In a Box, is showcasing a refreshing approach to fashion this Thursday. The boutique will present an exclusive, atelier-style fashion show that will bring a classic flair to the runway; one outfit at a time, as models walk the runway, their names and each look will be called out, describing the piece and alternative ways to style it.
In an industry sometimes dominated with fleeting trends, Oler is committed to something different: “We wanted to bring something to Halifax that was modern, yet not trendy. Something timeless that women could build their wardrobes around,” she explains. The show is a step in her mission to change the way we think about fashion and the role it plays in empowering individuals, particularly women.
Having grown up in Halifax before moving to Ottawa and Toronto, Oler eventually returned to her hometown with a vision. “I wanted to add my new take to Halifax—a new look to the city. One that’s chic and sophisticated, but built on investment pieces that last,” says Oler, who has always had a passion for fashion alongside her law career.
Oler’s boutique journey took an unexpected turn 16 years ago when she met Rita Karankevich while shopping. Karankevich, on her first day working in a store, caught Oler’s eye with her impeccable taste in fashion. “I was captivated by her sense of style,” Oler recalls. “I asked her if she wanted to work more days. We’ve been working together ever since.”
Today, Karankevich serves as Oler’s store manager and the creative force behind the redesign of the boutique. “She’s the world’s best clothing coordinator and the energy behind everything we do,” says Oler, proud of the way Karankevich has helped create a unique and welcoming space for fashion enthusiasts.
In a Box is not just another boutique. It’s a haven for those seeking European-inspired clothing that transcends seasonal trends. “We focus on timeless pieces—things you can wear season after season,” Oler explains. “We want to be a long-term investment store. When you buy something here, we remember you. If you bought a brown sweater from us last year, we’ll help you find the perfect pants to match it now.”
Oler and Karankevich emphasize that their approach isn’t about abandoning what’s current, but rather about building a wardrobe that complements individual style with pieces that don’t become obsolete. “Fast fashion has its place, especially for young people finding their style, but we want our clients to invest in clothes that will stay in their closets for years,” Oler adds. “Pieces that give them value for their money and will never go out of fashion.”
The upcoming runway show on Aug. 14 is not just another fashion event. “We chose to do an old-school saloon showcase, because last year when I attended The Mills Halifax Fashion Week, I was mesmerized by the show,” Oler shares. “When we met the production team, they offered us a solo show, and their help has been instrumental every step of the way.”
The show’s theme is designed to highlight workwear and evening styles, but with a twist. “We want to show how you can take one piece and style it for different occasions. Our goal isn’t to tell people exactly what to wear, but to show them the possibilities,” Oler says.
The decision to showcase older models is a deliberate one, as Oler feels that the fashion industry often overlooks this demographic. “Older models are underrepresented, and I wanted to give them a space to shine,” Oler explains. “These women are trendsetters. They’ve paved the way for the rest of us, and we wanted to honour them in this show.”
The show will feature a live presentation with a focus on each model and the story behind their outfit. “We want to bring fashion back to its roots, the way atelier fashion was originally presented,” Oler says. “We want to talk about the styling process for each outfit and help people see how fashion can be personal and timeless.”
In keeping with the ethos of sustainability, Oler is making a point to prove that age is just a number. “In a fast-paced world where trends change so quickly, we need to show that sustainable fashion is just as important as ever,” she adds. “It’s time to exude timeless elegance, no matter your age.”
The fashion show will take place on Aug. 14 at noon on Doyle Street, with outdoor seating available for guests. For those who can’t make it, In a Box will also be part of the closing ceremony of The Mills Halifax Fashion Week on Aug. 16.
Oler is hopeful that the event will inspire Halifax residents to rethink how they approach fashion and encourage a shift towards more mindful and lasting choices. “We want Halifax to come out and support us and prove that elegance is timeless. We believe that everyone deserves a shot and a chance to succeed, and our goal is to help women feel their best, no matter their age.”
This article appears in Aug 1-31, 2025.