Festive Flirty Skirts!

   
     Holiday season is here and the parties are starting!  If you don't know what to wear, I have the perfect solution.  Skirts are a hot item this season, so find one you love and pair it with your favourite blouse, fitted sweater, printed tank, whatever!


 

                   

Zara Pleated Midi Skirt (above).
Wilfred Free Milla Skirt (left).

     Faux leather can be worn many ways.  Choose a fitted pencil skirt for a sleek look or opt for a pleated mid length skirt for a fuller silhouette.  Add some texture by pairing your skirt with a fitted cable knit sweater.  

                                 

                                            BCBG Bess Lace Pencil Skirt.

Anthropologie Reveillon Lace Skirt.

 

     Lace is classic and makes a statement on it's own.  It is a delicate fabric so pair with a blouse or sweater in a lighter knit.  Choose a lace skirt with a scalloped hem for a polished look. 

H&M Deco Knit Skirt

     If you want your skirt (and you of course!) to be the centre of attention, choose a fun print like this art deco (think Great Gatsby) inspired mini.  Add a tailored blazer for an office party appropriate look!

 

Anthropologie Polaris Skirt

BCBG Liya Pencil Skirt

     Don't be afraid to mix and match prints and textures as long as you maintain your proportions.  In other words, if the fabric and/or print is heavy, pair with a lighter weight fabric or solid colour item. 

  

                        

                                             Anthropologie Campaign Skirt (left). 

                                               H&M Metalic Wrap Skirt (above).

    

      Metalic silver prints are everywhere this year and come in all shapes and sizes.  A knee length pencil skirt is a classic, mature approach to this trend, whereas the mini tulip cut is trendy and youthful.  

                           

                                        Bailey 44 Satellite Skirt 

Zara Sheath Skirt with Zips

     Edgy can be pretty too!  Leather snake print and exposed zippers add some funky detail.  Keep this rocker chic look in check by minimizing accessories and pairing with a classic top or blouse.

                

Anthropologie Ponte Bell Skirt

     Finally, my top pick this season: a high waisted, a line skirt in a yummy berry tone.  This skirt can be worn many ways but I love it paired with this long sleeve, leather collar top.  Finish your look with a statement necklace and a great shoe for the perfect party outfit!

                           

Layer it!

     Wearing a blazer over a sweater is a cozy, classic look this season.  Don't be afraid to mix and match colours but be mindful of proportions.  Choose a sweater that's not too bulky so your blazer fits over easily and maintains a tailored look.

Photo from chicstreetstyle.me

     Add a collared shirt with a fun print or accent colour for a third layer.  Let the shirt peak out over the top of the blazer and the bottom of the sweater to keep the look balanced.  Finish your outfit with a statement necklace to dress it up or throw on a cozy scarf for a more casual look.   

                                                        

                                                                       funfashion.net

pennypincherfahion.com

   

pintrest.com

    

 This trend works with sweater dresses too!  Let the layering show by wearing the blazer sleeve shorter than the sweater.  You can roll up the blazer sleeve and let the lining show which will add another texture or print to the look.  

goodnightmacaroon.co

     Mix neutrals for a very sophisticated look.  White and ivory, black and navy or heather grey and charcoal are all beautiful combinations.    This look works best when the sweater has a lot of texture, such as a cable knit, to give the neutral pallet more interest.  Add a pop of colour with a statement necklace, scarf or coloured jeans.  Just mix and match items you already have in your wardrobe and have fun!

Oh Hey There, Heel Boy

     This is now my opportunity to apologize for the blog hiatus, but I have been doing something equally (more?!) amazing over the past few months.  I've been working with the awesome staff at Heel Boy, one of the top shoe stores in all of Toronto.  Located in the trendy West Queen West neighbourhood, Heel Boy is a destination, not only for hipsters but for anyone with a love or need for shoes.

     Heel Boy has grown in popularity over the past decade and has attracted shoe-a-holics, including myself, with a diverse assortment of on trend styles for men and women.  Here is a look at what is on the shelves for Fall and Winter 2013!

     Ankle boots are the hottest trend for fall.  Ranging in all colours, suede and leather, lace or zip up, these booties work with skinny jeans, tights with chunky knit sweaters and tunic dresses.  Steve Madden, Dolce Vita, Seychelles and Franco Sarto are some of the well known brands carried by Heel Boy shown above.  If you don't already have a pair in your wardrobe, you know where to find one . . . or three!

  

     Heel Boy is a true supporter of Canadian brands, being an striving independent company itself.  Taking us stylishly into the colder months are Sorel, Kodiak and Uggs.  Having a warm, waterproof boot is a must and Heel Boy has the most stylish designs available.  If you are a true "heel girl" you will love the Sorel ankle rain boots with a bright orange heel!  

     Any style of rain boot is perfect for this chilly, wet weather.  Available in fun prints and versatile  neutrals, Hunter, Cougar and Dav are the go to classic brands to slosh through the city in.  Not only are they all 100% waterproof, they are also cute and comfy!

     Need some on trend footwear for your man?  Heel Boy carries a perfect selection of mens shoes and boots for any occasion.  Suede shoes by Reef for fall and warm, waterproof Sorel's for winter with   contrasting soles and laces is the new look in men's footwear.  

     Kenneth Cole, John Varvatos, Lacoste and Walkover are some of many brands with options for the office and first dates (hint, hint).  Need a comfortable shoe for weekends and mornings at the dog park?  New Balance offers support and style in fun colour combinations (also available in women's styles!).

     

     Heel Boy is a known destination for ladies looking for the perfect sexy shoe or boot.   Bold buckles and lace ups add an edgy look, especially with a sky high heel like these Tiger of Sweden's.  A slim, simple buckle is a classic, well tailored look on a knee high boot, much like the Ivanka Trumps on the top shelf.  Colcci, French Connection and Guess are also go to brands for the perfect black bootie, a look any girl can pull off for a night out!

      Pumps and flats for the office or any event can be found here.  The upcoming holiday season is the perfect time for suede and patent leather, sparkles and gold details.  Red, oxblood, navy and of course, classic black are the most popular but don't be afraid to have some fun with vintage inspired cuts and ankle straps.  

     What ever you are looking for, Heel Boy is your one stop shop.  The welcoming, high energy staff will gladly assist you and have the answer for any footwear fix.  So throw on your warmest layers, grab a coffee and take a stroll down Queen West to visit us.  I promise you won't be leaving empty handed!