STYLE WATCH: Wovens

The date was September 2006. The setting was Milan, Italy. The scene was the 2007 spring line buying show.

It was then that Lori spotted a trend that could turn out to be a frequent guest in Style Watch: woven shoes.

From top to bottom European designers were inspired by woven looks, creating fabulous flats, sandals and pumps all in carefully braided leathers. Lori's fell in love with this earthy-chic look and couldn't wait to share with or beloved city!

Well, the wait is over. Hurrah!

Our first woven shoes-- some pretty, perky little pointy-toe flats from Medici-- have arrived. Once the spring sun comes out, we'll be pairing them with Bermuda shorts and sun dresses (and we suspect other trendsetters will, too!). Keep an eye out...

LORI'S SUCCESS STORIES: Help me find a size 11!

It's often at Lori's we see elegantly tall women walking among our stacks of shoe boxes, and it's even more often when we see these ladies with slightly beleaguered looks. "

"Do you carry size 11?" they ask (or sigh!).

"Yes," a knowledgeable sales associate will reply!

It can be a hard, stressful process for those searching hi and lo for cute shoes in size 11. We like to end that distress, by easily leading our double-digit wearers in the right direction.

Not all brands will make shoes in 11s, but the few we rely on are fabulous. We recommend trying Gentle Souls' comfy-cool styles, Tsubo's sport-chic kicks, or Jeffrey Campbell flats.
Need winter boots? Try La Canadienne or Pajar. Reliable office pumps? Vaneli has your back. Or a knock 'em dead evening shoe? Caparros and Nina have a number of styles in size 11. Yay!

Other Lori's labels catering to these ladies' needs (frequently, if not always) include Matisse, Berne Mev, Gastone Lucioli and Lamica. So relax, come to Lori's and enjoy!

THIS JUST IN AT LORI'S: Chooka rain boots

Beep ba beep ba beep beep...

This just in at Lori's: the Chooka rain boots have arrived. Yay!

Perhaps you've seen these splash-happy cuties recently on the feet of celebs as they run their errands in playful-chic style. They're 100 percent rubber rain boots (just like the ones you wore as a kid), and they come in an array of exuberant prints. Lori's likes ours in polka dot, animal print, and skulls and crossbones.

Did we mention they come at an incredible price? They do. How fun is that?

Also new at Lori's online store this week is the addition of the "Sandals & Slides" department. We invite you to check out our growing collection of vacation- and warm weather-worthy footwear.

Happy Holidays!

TREND WATCH: New Year, New Shoes!

The holiday season is at its peak and Lori's is certainly swept up in the rush. But what’s next on our list? End of the year celebrations and New Year's resolutions!

We resolve to:

1. Add more stilettos to our wardrobe
And we're not just talking about next week's end of the year parties. We plan to wear our newly loved strappy, sexy shoes with cuffed shorts and tunic dresses.

2. Bring even more color to our fashion palette
From metallics and jewel tones to pastels, we're determined to make a splash in 2007 with bold hues (and perhaps prints, too?!).

3. Throw in an over-sized clutch or two
In 2006 we reaped the benefits of large totes and hobos, why not enjoy the same great roominess with our favorite '07 clutches? The trend has already been seen on recent red carpet events and Lori's is ready to flaunt the chic look next.

Even with a New Year and new shoes, however, Lori's resolves to maintain our same great style!

STYLE WATCH: Fun flats

Flats, especially those in fun, flirtatious patterns and colors, are quickly gaining fashion momentum. Now we're even seeing these short shoes creep their way into traditionally conservative office environments, working their colorful and quirky magic on basic black suits and skirts.

And we love it!

Sure flats provide relief to long days on your feet. But their demure shape also allows you to get away with flaunting flashy colors and whimsical prints. In other words, you get to be you. Work it!

Some of our favorites include Steve Madden's Tipie, a sophisticated and sexy mix of leopard calf hair and quilted patent. We're also celebrating with Jeffrey Campbell's Love in brown zebra print and the Couer in a retro mustard hue.

TREND WATCH: Seeing Red

Just weeks into the season of drab overcoats, hair-wrenching hats, and functional boots, Lori's says,"Out with the (c)old, in with the blue... and military, mustard, brown, black and red!"

That's right, it's mid-December and we've decided now is the time to inject some color into traditionally dreary winter wardrobes. What better way to do it than with a firey red?

Not only is red a color of warmth, it signifies passion, celebration, and boldness. It's also an attention-grabbing hue of emotion and power. Even better, fabulous little red accessories work with the neutrals you already own. Yes!

We recommend Tano’s leather bucket bag, which now comes in a gorgeous red. For a slightly more tame, yet equally chic choice, it's also available in the blue, military, mustard, brown and black shades mentioned above.

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: The mini

It's so cute (not to mention warm and comfy)!

That's why the adorable Ugg Mini has leaped to top of our Lori's best seller list. And we couldn't agree more.

The Mini is the petite version of the classic Ugg boot that have been seen every where from the hills of Hollywood to bustling East coast streets and our own Chicago neighborhoods. It's got the same charming shape, the same shearling lining and suede upper, the Mini is just... well, mini!

According to our customers, though, they're not just scooping the boots up for themselves. Our Lori's ladies are buying them as gifts, too. Great idea! In addition to being practical and nicely priced, we think the Mini makes giftees feel special and well-loved.

Warm feet, warm heart and hot style - what more can you ask for?!

TREND WATCH: What a pair!

What's tall, strappy, and sexy all over?

The answer to this accessory riddle may be the answer to your holiday attire conundrum: it's the perfect pair of party shoes!

But are they the right pair for you and your evening ensemble?

When it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes for this season's bash, not all styles are created equal. Your knock 'em dead cocktail dress requires a different heel than your classy and sleek trousers.

But no need to fret, Lori's has an easy fashion formula that will make sure you say good bye to 2006 and hello to 2007 in perfect fashion form.

Cocktail dress
Ready to show off killer legs in a mini cocktail dress? Add even more leg length with an uber high heel and sexy straps. Or, need to take it down a notch? How about a pretty, feminine patent pump.

Long and lean cuffed trousers
For ladies who've chosen the look of sophisticated trousers, the best choice is a fabulous heel with a long, extended toe. Perhaps in red?

Short, knit dress
If you're hitting the scene with a casually chic knit dress, we recommend pairing sexy opaque tights with a sassy Mary Jane or T strap.

LORI'S SUCCESS STORIES: Help me find winter-worthy footwear!

"How do I keep my feet warm and dry?"

That's the question on the minds of many shoppers today after we Chicagoans woke to find over six inches of snow this morning!

The answer we tell them: La Canadienne, Pajar or Aquatalia. Not only will these brands' boots keep toes cozy and comfy, they look great too.

La Canadienne
La Canadiennes are consistently customer favorites. They're smart, chic and they'll never go out of style. And if that's not enough, each of the boots is guaranteed waterproof.

Aquatalia
The brand can only be found in our stores, but it's one of our favorites because it’s always fashion-forward and innovative. They're guaranteed waterproof, too, and usually feature a plaid rolex lining.

Pajar
Pajar is the sporty boot of the group and the right choice if you’re going to be ankle deep in snow. Of course, they're waterproof, but they're also made of a breathable material and have a rubber sole with traction.

Not even a little... or a lot... of snow can suppress our style!

TREND WATCH: Holiday sparkle

Holiday season is here, do you have your party shoes?

Lori's does!

We have countless choices for fabulous evening footwear, each of which will let your feet; your perfect cocktail dress; your personality, sparkle. Accessories that glitter and glow should be the hallmark of every soiree swinging girl come December.

After all, what makes spirits brighter than a sexy, glistening platform and a new favorite little clutch?!

Lori's is partial to peep toes this year. Richard Tyler has a delightful d'Orsay dish with black lace overlay, while Nina's impressed us with its array of all shoes shiny. Take a peek at the Vadonna, Gelsi, and Bolina (all $80 and under, too!).

Remember, party shoes are about glamour and fun. Choose the one (or two!) that bring out the sparkle in you.

STYLE WATCH: Spring colors

The leaves are only just hitting the ground, but we're already thinking about spring styles!

Lori returned recently from the Spring 2007 buying trip to Milan, Italy, where hundreds and hundreds of designers were showcasing their brand new warm weather fashions. (Check out Lori's most recent Passport to Fashion entry, where she scrapbooks the ins and outs of the trip.)

At the Milan show, she and Brian spotted several of next season's key trends, including woven shoes and minimalist strappy sandals. But what was also noticeable was the fabulous array of color on tap for Spring '07.

So you can start planning your wardrobe now, here's a Top Five preview:
1. Straberry Ice
2. Opal Grey
3. Sky Blue
4. Golden Apricto
5. Cafe Creme

Can't wait!

LORI'S SUCCESS STORIES: Help me with bridal jewelry!

This Lori's success story took place a few months ago, but we were particularly proud of how things turned out and wanted to share!

A Spring bride-to-be came into our Lincoln Park store, searching for the perfect wedding necklace. She had previously fallen head over heels for it and was ready to say "I do" to purchasing. Unfortunately, it was a style from a previous season that we hadn't had in the store in a bit. No worries, jewelry buyer Janet was there to lend assistance and one of Lori's favorite vendors, Marie Chavez, couldn't have been more heroic!

Not only did Janet and Marie track down the perfect nuptial necklace, but Marie made custom bracelets for each of the bridesmaids. Did we mention it all happened in about two weeks?!

It did.

And it was well worth it, as the entire party was beautifully accessorized for the dreamy destination wedding. Hurrah for happily ever after!

We do not have the exact pictures, but check out current designs from jewelry superstar Marie Chavez.

TREND WATCH: Cast your vote!

It's November and election day is right around the corner. At Lori's, we're campaigning on a fashionable platform.

A black patent Jeffrey Campbell platform, that is!

We support the Park because it's a comfortable way to add height, and the shoe's glossy patent leather pops nicely against this season's knits and wools. Lori wears hers with cuffed shorts and a tailored wool jacket for night events; and with cropped, slim pants for long days on the campaign trail.

Of course, behind every winning candidate is a great running mate. At Lori's, it's the Park in classic brown suede. The soft leathered partner is sophisticated and versatile, always ready to be paired with whatever trouser, jean or dress that comes its way.

We say, red state or blue state, cast your vote for the Park!

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: The Corso Como Sophia

Dominant on this week's digital hot list is the Corso Como Sophia riding boot in black and tan.

Our online shoppers have been using their keyboards to snatch up these riding beauties. Can you blame them? Neither can we!

The boot is certainly a fashion find. It's got the super flat silhouette that is right on the mark for this season's riding boot trend. The shaft on the Sophia also has a little extra room so we can tuck our jeans (skinny, straight or boot cut. Yes!) inside.

Not to mention, they are a Corso Como construction, meaning one thing: Top. Quality. Italian. Design.

Because we like our Sophias so much, Lori's has come up with a Top Five list for showing off our new found favorites. We wear them with:

1. Tucked-in jeans and a tunic
2. Thick wool tights and a flowy skirt
3. Black leggings and a great winter pea coat
4. Patterned tights, a tailored blouse and a vest
5. Skinny black pants and a belted sweater

TREND WATCH: Lace

Here's a fashion riddle for you, what's classy, sexy and sultry all over?

The answer: black lace.

Or in Lori's case, gorgeous black lace accessories! Mixing black lace with a soft color is a look we're loving for the approaching party season. And hen paired with your scrumptious new cocktail dress, lace accessories complete a sophisticated, feminine look.

We have our eyes on Richard Tyler's d'Orsay pump, Blues. It has nude satin underneath a black lace overlay, in addition to an uber hot peep toe. This year we're building our holiday party wardrobe from our feet on up!

If you're not ready for black lace on your feet, perhaps you'll be won over by Rebel Designs' divalicious cuff. Party season, here we come!

STYLE WATCH: Fashion foilage

The leaves on Armitage Avenue this week have turned gorgeous shades of yellow, orange, green, brown... gold and silver?


Yes, gold and silver!


It's been a good season for foliage at Lori's, inside and out, as some of our current fave pieces have leaf pendants. Perhaps it's because they remind us of our Lincoln Park home; perhaps it's because they've been popularized by East and West coast celebrities, or; perhaps because these are just natural, organic, and beautiful jewelry specimens.


One of our top choices is a gold Gorjana necklace with asymmetrical leaf charms. Another is Sparkling Sage silver leaf that hangs from a black leather cord. Whichever falls into your style, we think you'll enjoy these leaf pieces just as much as we do!

TREND WATCH: Get your boots on

Riding? Flat? Dress? Granny? Boot season is officially here, hurrah! Which style are you? There are so many great styles to choose from.

No matter which style you select, boots are great for their versatility. They can be sexy when paired with fishnets and a knee-length skirt; trendy when styled with leggings, or; urban chic worn over slim, dark jeans.

Lori's wearing hers with trextured tights and a print wrap dress.

Some of our recommendations include Vic Matie's 4922 in brick red as an edgier, fashion-forward pick; Jeffrey Campbell's Paonra for mod, retro lovin' girls; and the Corso Como in black for those searching for a classy and functional choice.

Of course, we'd love to hear your choice!

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: Lamica boots

Lamica boots are in... both literally and fashionably, we mean.

Not long ago, Lori's received the season's first shipment of Lamicas. Boots we love for their fantastic leather, superb quality and great price (see for yourself!).

But it doesn't stop there! Lamicas also have to-die-for Italian styling; the brand has created a wonderful, yet subtle, Western look that's currently the choice of casually chic Milano fashionistas. It's no wonder that Lamica boots are now peppered all over our most recent best seller lists!

Other hot numbers are the HUE tights and Susan Daniels headbands. Check our newest silk, coif-covers here.

Of course with the city's earliest recorded snowfall ever taking place this week (!), look for functionally fashionable items like San Deigo Hat Company hats and La Canadienne boots next week!

STYLE WATCH: Film festival fashion

The Chicago International Film Festival is hitting its stride this week, and with the silver screens and red carpets, of course, comes a style watch! And just what kind of fashion flavor is the Festival bringing to our fair city?

Well, it's not your typical Hollywood Glamorama event. As the Festival is featuring of many phenomenal independent films from over 30 countries, there is a distinct global-Indie-urban-creative vibe that's completely relaxed, fresh and cool. The scene is characterized by textures, layers and colors.

Lori's loves it!

It matches our recently rejuvenated urban attitude, ditching the "safe" in favor of something bold; kicking convention to the curb and replacing it with something that's uniquely "us."

LORI'S SUCCESS STORIES: Help me with my patent purchase!

It's been a really big season for patent leather, as it should be. Patent is rich looking, chic, shiny and gorgeous. Hurrah!

But did you know that it's also delicate and much less durable than "regular" leather? It is. Therefore, it deserves special attention.

When customers make patent purchases, we're always quick to give them a few pointers. These are from Lori's Associate Seanna, who's seen it all with this snazzy and unique material.

*Keep your patent out of heat. So, although you may want to, don't display your patent perfection in the window. Direct sunlight could make it melt. Oh no!

*Store your glossy goody carefully. We suggest a dust bag or perhaps a pillow case because patent will pick up color from other patents and materials.

*Use mild soap. Just a bit of mild soap and a clean wet cloth will go a ways in keeping your purchase lookin' like new. Remember, be gentle!

Now you're ready to keep your fab find in great shape. Enjoy!

TREND WATCH: Lori's new attitude

We've seen a number of looks this season, from menswear and animal prints to runway styles. But there's one thing they all have in common- a distinct urban vibe. So what are we doing as the calendar now reads October?


We're flaunting our city edginess. We're showing off our Lori's street smarts. We're reviving our urban attitude.


Lori's secret to success? A high patent pump, dark tights or textured hose and a pair of cuffed shorts.


Some of our favorites are Via Spiga's Drama, the navy and green patent Seychelles pump and Calvin Klein tights. And if you haven't checked out the Deer Stags suede platform pumps, they definitely deserve a look, too!


How do you tout your attitude?

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: The underdog

This week, we're taking a different point of view in the Hot List, featuring a brand we think doesn't always get its due. Ladies... Alberto Fermani.

Fermani is the quintessential Italian designer, fashion forward and ahead of the curve, yet always classic, clean, tailored and beautiful. This season the label nailed the menswear trend, inspiring us to get a fabulous pair of trousers and a tailored blouse.

We've got a number of the brand's styles, including a Mary Jane Lori's has oggled and worn for years, the 10003 in Cuoio. It's unbelievable gorgeous and meticulously crafted.

We like Alberto Fermani because the shoes are out of the ordinary; they're wearable conversation starters; they'll prompt people on the street to ask you where you got them. Really, they're everything we crave in footwear. And did we mention they're comfortable? They are.

Lori's likes and underdog, and we think Mr. Fermani will emerge as a true champion!

STYLE WATCH: Campaign shoes

No, not the ones candidates are wearing for the approaching elections.


We're talking about ad campaign shoes- the ones vendors are featuring in their national magazine and newspaper ads. Lori's carries, wears and adores a number of "have you seen these?" styles. In fact, several of the fresh-faced exhibits are our best sellers!


One in particular is Aerosole's fantastic Sleigh wedge. Not only is it totally cute and in, but the shoe has a fantastically comfortable and flexible sole, which means easy walking as fall shopping season is in full force. Hurrah!


Another campaign shoe is Vaneli's Narayanan boot in brown suede. It's a gorgeous selection from our "dress" category, with ankle buckles and a high heel... to boot. From Lakeview to the Loop, rest assured it's one of Chicago's top choices.

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: Comfy Mary Janes

Our Lincoln Park Girls-On-The-Go cruised into the store and took advantage of our latest Berne Mev shipment, shooting the little athletic flat up to the top of our best seller charts. The leather and rubber number with a Mary Jane strap comes in a plethora of colors, including matte and metallic styles.


Also hot in the store this week was Erin Gallagher's mult-chain bracelet in silver and gold. Gallagher's a local girl we love for her clean, easy pieces you can wear anywear. We noticed, too, that customers were interested in her vintage charm necklaces. Very chic. Very layerable.


Now we're making a best seller prediction for next week- flats have been a trendy pic this month (see above... and below!), and we just got gorgeous styles from Seychelles and Jeffrey Campbell. Pictures coming soon!


(Erin Gallagher brass locket necklace)

TREND WATCH: Walk the walk

What do pumps, peep toes, ankle straps and Mary Janes have in common? They all played a big part in this season's runway styles.

We saw one designer mix white T-strap pump with sheer black tights and thick black socks, while another one paired textured opaque tights with ankle strap heels. Kenzie, meanwhile, is showing its Crezy Cat peep toe (right) with white socks, completing the label's layered, shabby-chic look.

We like to wear our pumps, Mary Janes actually, with sleek socks in matching tones- with or without tights.

Whether you like your legs covered or bare, colored or nude, we're encouraging our shoppers to remember these classically sexy styles, even as boot season is upon us. After all, what polishes off an outfit better than a fabulous pair of high heels?!

STYLE WATCH: Second City style

You're invited!

Our great city, sometimes overlooked by our friends in the fashion industry, is putting on a show to highlight just how fresh, creative and utterly fabulous designs in Chicago are.

The Fashion Focus event will run 11 days, from September 20th thru October 1st, in locations all over- from Grant Park to Bucktown and the Loop to Lincoln Park (yay, Lincoln Park!).

Lori's will be doing its part Thursday, September 21st as part of Armitage Avenue's neighborhood shopping event. On that night we, and over 30 of our closest friends, will be open fashionably late (until 9 p.m.) and serving yummy cocktails.

We also challenge you to bring an outfit... any outfit... and our local style gurus will help you polish it off with some great accessories.

So stop by Armitage Avenue on the 21st to shop the unique boutiques on our great street. This is an amazing opportunity to see all that our remarkable neighborhood- and city- has to offer the style community.

Can't make it to the city on September 21st? Perhaps you can visit us in Naperville where our west suburban Lori's will be participating in the 'burb's "Ladies Night Out." Receive 10 percent off EVERYTHING in the store, or 20 precent off with the purchase of an Alfonsi Venetis handbag. Half of all proceeds that night will be donated to charity.

For more Ladies Night Out information call the Naperville store at 630-416-3663

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: Sassy pumps, suede wedges

A new season, a new attitude. September is the unofficial start of fall and with the calendar change we're seeing a change in our shoe searcher's buying habits. Gone are the days of sandals and flip flops, in are the weeks of leathers and wedges, peep toes and covered toes.

Making a return to the top of the best seller list is the Lalo from Steven, a perennial Lori's favorite. This year patent styles are flying off the shelves, in addition to the leopard print highlighted September 1st. It's a sexy and stylish choice- a great partner for the throngs of great minis and slim pants out there.

Another fantastic shoe having an impressive few weeks is the Gentle Souls Rosa suede wedge. Not only does it look totally cute with tights and knee length skirts, but it is unbelievably comfortable. It's cloud-like, really, and a great choice for our busy chic shoppers constantly on the go!

An honorable mention also this week goes to Vaneli. Two of the label's shoes, the dress boot Lillium and Mary Jane wedge Billow, have been big hits at our Highland Park and Northfield locations. Nicely done!

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: Metallic flats

Viva Dolce Vita!

This week's top seller comes from our Italian friends at Dolce Vita. They know what we like in Chicago! From Lincoln Park and the North Shore to cyberspace, the brand's cute metallic ballets have been quite a hit.

Our customers are snatching these cuties up and teaming their new ballets with black or grey opaque tights, black leggings and even skinny jeans. Well done!

A little preview for next week. We're noticing more and more chain and/or frame bags. You know, bags with old school roots. However, our favorites have also been blessed with modern style as we're seeing big chain bags with lots of structure and textures. We carry ours with patent wedges and pumps.

LORI'S SUCCESS STORIES: Help me find boots!

Often times forlorn shoppers will tell us stories of their quest to find the right boot. We empathize because buying the right one for you can be difficult.

We had one such down on her luck shopper in our Armitage Avenue boutique recently. Distraught that she couldn't find a boot to fit her slim calf, she turned to sales leader Kathryn. And having been down the beleaguered boot path before, Kathryn was armed with brand knowledge and ready to assist.

She pointed our shopper to the Gentle Souls Riley boot (very cute, very lush!), which was known for having a narrow shaft. Low and behold, it fit! Not only was it just right in the toe, but the boot snuggled up against her leg, just as it should. Plus, it looked fabulous with the brown pencil skirt she was currently wearing.

Another day, another success story. Congrats to our loyal Lori's customer and kudos to Kathryn!

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: It's a jungle in here!

Jungle fever is all around Lori's as we head into summer's final weekend. Or maybe it's a Steve Madden thing. You tell us.


Topping the charts as the week’s popular buys were his designs Bunni in (an adorable little wedge) and Lalo (a hot peep toe platform), and the Steven by Steve Madden Persuade (the cutest ballet)- all in leopard.


Sure leopard and other animal prints currently grace the pages of Elle and the like, but we embrace the style because it works on (ballets, wedges, pumps, bags etc.) and with (leathers, cottons, dresses, denim etc.) just about anything. No matter which print you choose, count on jungle patterns to be in season after season. Now that's great style!


Although we do love Steve Madden, Lori's has additional animal print footwear- tiger, snake and giraffe even! Check out the Anne Klein and Jeffrey Campbell pumps, or maybe even our swanky Via Spiga Mary Janes.

STYLE WATCH: Emmys jewelry

While some stars opted to wear classic jewelry pieces for Sunday's Emmys, others brought a bit of creativity to the red carpet by mixing metals and layering necklaces. We say, "Bravo!"

But don't think layering is only for designer gowns. Unleash your inner fashionista and strut your overlapping accessories with a number of outfits, including wrap dresses, V-necks or even a chic T. Try different metal- gold, silver and platinum- and size combinations to find what works for you.

Lori's likes the layering trend because it's a fantastic urban look, and it allows us to make a personal statement through fashion. While you should be careful not to go overboard, this trend's key is to experiment and have fun!

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: HOBO clutch

HOBO's black Hayward clutch is cute and compact, but it's carrying a big punch a Lori's right now and is one of this week's top sellers.

The bag is classically styled, perhaps after its namesake, silver screen starlet and beauty icon Susan Hayward. However, HOBO uses cracked leather and silver to give this dish a modern twist. It's a cool way to dress-up a pair of jeans or dress-down a little black dress. Either way we give it a standing ovation. Hurrah!

Other quick sellers during the week were our Susan Danielles whimsical silk headbands, and BCBGirls' Larry, a pretty peep toe pump with a flirty bow.

TREND WATCH: They're baaaack...

They say fashion trends come in 20 year waves. As the calendar is flashing 2006 that theory seems right-on since we're seeing "the best of the 80s" spreads in all of the fall fashion magazines.

Here's how we like to follow the trend. Step one, find a long, over-sized sweater. Be sure to define your waist by layering a wide belt over your top of choice. Step two, give the outfit a sleek look by wearing slim leggings. Step three, slip into some stiletto booties to capture the complete 80s attitude.


Of course Lori's can help you find perfect shoe for step three. In addition to the lovable Saple 2, don't forget about Jeffrey Campbell's Velux pictured in the August 15th post. You may want to try the Corsica from Matisse as well. If booties aren't your fashion choice, try pairing your leggings with some great almost-flats. Luichiny has the right look.

Have fun!

STYLE WATCH: I thought that looked familiar!

It's going to be a great season at Lori's as a few of our prized possessions have been- or will be- featured in fall fashion magazines.

The September issue of Lucky hasn't hit the stands yet, but we can give you a sneak peek. Right there on the glossy pages of the fashion publication is an olive Franco Sarto cotton tote with brown leather handles. It garnered the attention of those in the industry for its military interpretation and perfect size. We have in store and online for its great price, too.



In other news, our own little Hobo gem "Margo" in ruby red was picked for Cosmo's summer style edition. Although it was nice for warm weather days and nights, Lori's thinks it's just right for fall with its seasonal ruby hue, antiqued gold details and trendy ruching.

Have you seen any of our bags in the fall magazines? We'd love to hear from you!

THIS WEEK'S HOT LIST: Jeffrey Campbell bootie

Here's the scoop on last week's hottest sellers at Lori's Lincoln Park store.

Several shoppers were drawn to MIA's Hepburn, a cute little leather flat with a short pointed toe. Chances are good our style intelligent Armitage Avenue visitors were pairing them with leggings, or maybe tights and a skirt. It also looked like some gals were buying for upcoming weddings or other special events, because the Caparros Beethoven in bronze was a fashionable choice. Others, wanting to enjoy the beautiful Chicago weather perhaps, picked up pairs of Havaiannas.

It was Jeffrey Campbell's Saple-2 bootie that was most popular at lorisshoes.com. Apparently our online shoppers have a keen eye for the 80s-chic trend! We recently added a second Jeffrey Campbell number for those that didn't keep their 80s booties but wish they had, check out the black leather Velux.

TREND UPDATE: Menswear everywhere...

The man-tailored/menswear trend is all over the pages of fall fashion magazines. We're seeing skinny, crisp tailored white shirts paired with slouchy pants and cable knit sweaters. Of course, we're here for shoes and accessories, so what does the menswear trend mean at Lori's?

Well, spotting menswear-inspired shoes is pretty easy. Just keep an eye out for features like wingtips, perforated leather trims and metal accents.

It's getting the trend done right that's confusing. Remember, man-tailored pieces should not fit like men's clothing! Oh no. Instead, the cuts should look tailored, allowing you feel feminine and sexy. That includes footwear and accessories, too!

Many of our Italian brands like Enrico Antinori and Alto Gradimento have a man-tailored feel, yet they're still soft and feminine. A little closer to home, Jeffrey Campbell and Sam Edelman have great menswear styles.