The Style Journal: Stand out wardrobe pieces

—April Francis of The Haute Closet

When it comes to shopping, it’s always good to know what works for you. And when it comes to accessories it’s always smarter to buy something fun. Here are some of my favorites from Lori’s this season—standout pieces that you’ll be able to pair with the basics in your wardrobe to create many satisfying combinations.

 

This bold, classic textile coat is warm and perfect for throwing over a casual look (sweatpants, leggings or boyfriend jeans) to pull it all together. Working with any complexion and hair color, a classic style like this will never get purged from a Haute Closet. And at $118, you’ll look like a cool million for a hundo and change.

Jesslyn Blake Jesslyn

Complementing basic blacks, rich browns and silver metallics, this clutch gives you the texture you crave and the perfect dose of pretty. Not only can you work this into your winter wardrobe with a party dress or jeans, you can pull it out all spring because of its color palette. At $178 it’s not cheap but the soft leather rosettes will feel and look like total luxury in your hands. A smart staple.

Jeffrey Campbell Pixie-T-Hi

When buying accessories, why go basic? Leave that to what we at The Haute Closet call your foundational wardrobe. I love these boots because they make jeans or leggings a ton more fun and amp up the look of all of your jackets and tops. You’re sure to get as much wear out of these as you would an all-black pair. Have we mentioned they’re black suede wedges? ($166.00)

Chain Cluster Ring - Brass or Silver

A total no-brainer: this ring makes a tough yet tender statement, being big but not too big and on-trend but also all-season. Wearing both metals (brass and silver) with more simple bands in your jewelry case will make a statement of its own for only $16.00 each.

Pour La Victoire Twiggy - Black

This bag caught my eye because it’s got the insouciant attitude of Chanel worn by a hip chick at a rock concert. Worn cross-body or over the shoulder, you can fit your keys, cards and lipstick and keep your hands gloriously free to dance and sing. Love the tassel and strap details; Pour La Victoire is always a good bet if you’re looking for great accessories. One of my favorites at $148.00.

Sam Edelman Faye - Wheat

Even more amazing because they’re already on sale ($94.90), the clog trend hit strong this Spring and continues to get even more haute. Unlike an open-toe bootie, the clog is the perfect shoe for winter weather, raising you up out of the slush with the utilitarian wooden platform and being a little kicky with the lace-up detail. These are sure to lengthen your legs in a most flattering way and go an even longer way in the wardrobe department.

Chinese Laundry Lyndia - Silver

Classic in that Audrey Hepburn way, and a staple in every woman’s closet, I am absolutely besotted by these Chinese Laundry pumps. White in winter?! Yes, when it’s done like this with a little black dress or a super dark rinse denim. Perfect in every way, the silvery-white satin and bow-shaped crystal detail are very girly, but very grown-up. Chinese Laundry is always well-made and never fails to deliver in the essential basics department for $64.00.
 

Every Handbag Tells A Story

— Valerie and Camilla of A Butterfly by Day 

Visions of rock stars and fashion icons of the past streamed through our heads when we first saw the tan fringe cross-shoulder bag by Cut N Paste. The warm caramel color of the leather and the soft, distressed look gave the illusion that the bag already had a rich history. Inspired by the Rolling Stones girlfriend Anita Pallenberg and Beatles gal Patti Boyd, we immediately decided to style the new bag with textures and pieces that evoked the rocker chick’s vibe. 

To achieve the “Almost Famous” look we paired a knit Free People dress with a chunky wrap sweater from Anthropologie and wrapped a burgundy vintage faux fur scarf around the neck. Then we accessorized the outfit with textured brown tights by HUE, a beaded necklace we thrifted and, of course, the tan fringe bag by Cut N Paste. On Camilla’s lips we used Nars lipstick in Heat Wave and on her nails is Deborah Lippmann’s Stop and Stare. With thoughts of decades gone by and our leather fringe bag across the shoulder, off we went to shop and explore the city. 

“You can always have fun and if you ever get lonely, you just go to the record store and visit all your friends.” 

Penny Lane, 

Almost Famous 

A Few Favorite Looks

In case you haven't noticed, Lori's has started to carry apparel, much to our delight. Here are a couple looks that include a few of our favorite new apparel pieces matched with new shoes and accessories.

This dressed-up look can be worn out to a party, on a date or anytime you're going for sexy but tasteful. With a contemporary little black dress from BB Dakota, standout bronze and emerald green leather pumps from Poetic Licence, and a luxurious leather clutch from Jesslyn Blake, this look is simple, yet exciting. Accessorize with a beaded wrap bracelet from Nakamol for added sparkle.

Little Black Dress by Lori's 


Both casual and sophisticated, riding-chic style remains a timeless classic for Fall. We like to layer basics like this long-sleeved black T-shirt from BB Dakota with a soft plaid Echo Design scarf and match with a pair of jodhpurs and buckled Miz Mooz boots. The khaki crocco-embossed High Fashion satchel, Rebel Design leather and crystal cuff, and M Gold earrings are just enough to accessorize the look without going over the top.

Riding Chic by Lori's 

Merchandise It: Texture Frenzy

The Lori's Insider Report

—Ashley Lacey, Lori's staff and author of Stiletto-Chic

Anyone who knows me knows that I love to "merchandise it up" in the words of my fashion icon, the über-fab Carrie Bradshaw. (I am well aware that she is fictional but to me, she lives.)

I love to create a multi-dimensional look centered around one core item. It is paramount to have a statement piece, whether it be a pair of platforms, a necklace, a bracelet or a bag. Pick an item to be the center of attention and make it the star of the show!

When picking your pieces be sure to incorporate texture. Add items that don't seem to match. This trend is epic right now. Match a dressier item, such a sequin top or a light weight chiffon skirt, with a blazer or edgier boot as seen below on Gwyneth Paltrow. Her amped-up boots are obviously the main attraction! Get her sexy combat boot look with our Vancouver boot by Sam Edelman.

No need to match your belt with your pumps. No need to wear only complementary colors. Take a look at my fave "mix-n-match" runway Fall 2010 looks [courtesy of Harper's Bazaar]. These looks illustrate color remixing, the pairing of items of various textures, layering and the dominance of a muted color palette.

How does one style a "statement piece"?  How much is too much? You decide! Exercise your own judgment. I believe that fashion has no rules. Adorn yourself with fur (faux fur if you prefer), ethnic or Geo prints and texturized tights. Wear what your fashionable heart desires!

Hue tights, Boutique 9 wedge booties, earrings, and Cut N' Paste bag all available at Lori's

Lori on Lori's

Geniuses that we are, the Lori's Shoes creatives team conspired to do less work and still get paid. Our Tom Sawyer-like whitewashing paid off in spades when Lori agreed to do our job and write a post on how she wears fall styles. Muh-hoo-ha-ha-ha! Of course, after more than 25 years in the business, she knows more than all of us combined. We may have gotten off light, but you readers are the true winners. Enjoy!

If I had to define my style, I would describe myself as classic with an urban edge. Some of my favorite pieces are the simple black dress, the crisp white oxford shirt and the timeless button-down sweater. I make them look current with great accessories. I love to accessorize! I tend to wear pieces that are strong, current and bold (but never overpowering).

What I love about this season is the ease in pairing clothing and accessories. Just the other day I pulled out my brown Frye Veronica slouch boots, straight leg jeans and a classic, crisp white shirt. Then I layered in my favorite new La Vie Parisienne necklaces for a touch of the unexpected.

The military trend speaks to me this season. I'm putting this look together through Tipo's lace-up boots in brown leather and tight-fitting khaki cargo pants. Wear leg warmers over the khakis for a suped-up military look!

Another look I will be wearing is "vintage cozy": a plaid shirt with the ivory knit infinity scarf from Caroline Amato in ivory for $48.00. Did I mention that I love the leather fingerless gloves by also by Caroline Amato? Check out L770 for $64.00 The studs totally complete the look and add a bit of punch! (Heh.)

When I am feeling a little more grown up, a little more classic and a little less trendy, I
think Ralph Lauren. With romantic images of the Old West in mind, I'll wear a pair of my favorite classic riding boots—the Melissa by Frye. I love its cognac color. It is the perfect, denim-friendly neutral. Accessorize it with chunky gold jewelry; check out the above picture of me wearing the CCC bracelets with gold plates and saddle leather. The Hobo Touch Base cross-body bag completes the look.
 
I hope you enjoy some of my personal fashion statements for this season. Keep visiting our website to always get the most current, always interesting, always entertaining fashion news and ideas! And thanks for shopping at Loriʼs.

— Lori Andre

Lori's in the news: US Weekly + Hype Bag

The Hype Alex bag will add some shimmer to your shimmy.

If you so happened to pick up the US weekly last week and turned the pages to the US Style section, notice anything? Well not only was the CC Skye rhinestone and gold-plated bullet bracelet a stroke of genius, but did you see the Prada leather camo tote? OMG! 

Well amongst the fashion's best like Prada and Burberry sat Lori's Shoes—the preferred retailer of Hype bags. (Check the top right for the studded leather Alex shoulder bag just in case you missed it). Gor-geous! Obviously, this military trend is taking off. We're happy to have this and other hot items to fit your military style. Great trend pieces don't stay in stock at Lori's forever, so be quick on your toes this season. Feel free to shop it now!

The Style Journal: Sam Edelman’s Vancouver Bootie

Making the Military Trend Your Own

—April Francis of The Haute Closet

I am not one to shy away from super high heels. Brian Atwood’s original six-inch Maniacs are one of my basics. Given my penchant for high heels, I get more than my fair share of “How do you wear those?!” I always smile because I adore wearing heels.

I took the Vancouver by Sam Edelman out for a test run to see how they could amp up my wardrobe’s military flair one sunny, 80-degree Sunday. In the first look, I went with a gorgeous pair of Japanese-made L.G.B. camouflage leggings from Ikram. Awesomely, these didn’t break the bank and since I’ve worn them over and over again this season, their cost per wear (CPW) is at about $3 (and we’ve got months to go). Add in this season’s de rigueur super flirty circle skirt (ours by A.L.C.), an army green Alexander Wang tank and a super cozy cape from Hejfina. Covering just about every of-the-moment trend in one outfit without looking like a victim gives you a good look for going to a movie, drinks or dinner with girlfriends.

Quartermastering the Look: Ladies Night Out with Vancouver

Cadet Prep: Date Night with Vancouver

The second look brought out our inner West Point prep. When you’re going military, the easiest way to femme it up is by adding flirty colors. We got ours courtesy of Antipast knee socks from Robin Richman, a silk blouse from L’Agence and a sweet pink Chanel bag. I’m sure you’ve got most of these pieces in your closet so call up your favorite shorts, grab your boyfriend blazer, add some fun hosiery, rock these boots and boom—a fun, multi-textured look for fall. We would definitely wear this look on a date.

For the last wardrobe change I went for a comfy, everyday look. Pairing T by Alexander Wang sweatpants with a military-inspired chevron sweater by Marc by Marc Jacobs, I could work in this look all day and be happy about it. (Did I mention how comfortable these boots are?) And the bag, a little vintage beauty picked up from LuLu’s at the Belle Kay, is a force to be reckoned with. 

Reveille Revelry: Breakfast at Lori's with Vancouver

Verdict: these puppies are gorgeous in their neutral grey-green suede, grabbing tons of looks and compliments. Not to mention they are fantastically comfortable: I wore them for a full day of driving (stick-shift VW), Haute Closet-ing and city walking—all without the slightest bit of discomfort. These shoes rule.

The trick to super high heels is the height of the platform and how strapped in the tops of your feet are. The platform on these puppies is about two inches (making the stiletto that much shorter) with a great-for-winter-slush rubber tread sole. And not only can you tighten the laces for a snug fit, you can slip out quickly with Edelman’s super heavy-duty zipper on the inside of each foot. Translation: feels like heaven, makes you a blissful six inches taller.

The other half of the trick: you have a lot of clothes in your closet. I didn’t buy any of these pieces for the shoot. I just added the shoes and built looks around them with what I already had. When you add any new piece to your wardrobe, it’s worthwhile to play in your closet and try out new combinations.

Lastly, smart shoppers, at $212, these boots are a bargain and just as beautiful as the Chloe, Elizabeth and James and Rag & Bone versions that are out on all the shelves right now, for half the price.

Work the Sam Edelman Vancouver into your own wardrobe so that you are on top of the military trend but interpret that trend according to your own style.

P.S.: Notice that I’m wearing the same belt with each outfit? It’s amazing how a new accessory like these boots can breathe fresh life into things that have been languishing in your closet, unloved, for months. Also, I usually wear an 8.5; I sized down to an 8 in these, and still have plenty of room for cozy winter socks!

The Big Buddha handbag that could be yours!

Big Buddha - Jacqueline clutch bag giveaway with Geisha Pearl. Not sold in stores or online.

See it. Love it. Win it.

Big Buddha has sent us three special edition, style-it-the-way-you-want-it Jacqueline clutch bags. And we just happen to be giving them away with one of our fashionable guest bloggers: Kitty from Geisha Pearl. They are not sold online, so if you miss your chance, you've missed it. 

The bone and mushroom are for the taking. Kitty has styled the black clutch as she does best, with chic vintage glamour and grace. Here's how to ensure your name is tagged for one of these rocker-chic bags:

• Go to Geisha Pearl Vintage Facebook page, follow the instructions and you are on your way to fabulosity (in our Kimora Lee-Simmons voice). 
• The winners will be featured on our blog, along with Big Buddha's Style Star project blog.
• Entries accepted until Tuesday, November 2nd.

Good luck!

From Lori's Shoes, Big Buddha and Geisha Pearl

Lori's in the News: Marie Claire

 

Well kinda. Lori's isn't necessarily in this news, but we do have this hot wedge by Chinese Laundry! Listed in Marie Claire for $89, we've got this versatile shoe in black for $80. Shop it now for a great wardrobe basic.

Jeffrey Campbell All-Ruffles

We do love footwear with contradictions. It gets our attention ... and keeps it. It might take a minute. We might let out a giggle, maybe a grimace, but after some deep thought we usually fall in love.

First thought: who would think to make over-sized frilly ruffles from distressed army-green leather? Who would then take those ruffles and belt them around a rugged combat boot? The answer is only someone as clever and daring as Jeffrey Campbell. And that's why we love it. The more you look at it, the cuter it gets. And it's surprisingly easy and versatile to wear!

The obvious look, of course, is to go military. Slip on some skinny jeans, sweater tights or leggings and pair with a T-shirt or off-the-shoulder sweater. Top with a jean or bomber jacket (dark rocker-chic accessories optional).

But don't limit yourself. The name is "All-Ruffles" so we can dress her up a bit too. Wear her over tights or knee socks with a boho floral skirt. Keep it casual and simple on top and add a vintage blazer to complete the look. 

If we haven't already convinced you of the beauty of this boot, consider this: the ruffles can be slipped right off for an instant, classic combat look. And once you've worn out All-Ruffles you can always use it as, well, a planter. How's that for a contradiction?

Looking Fantastic this Fall: Check.

Photo courtesy of Fab Sugar

Autumn has finally come 'round the bend and we are elated. So much so that we have created a special Lori's checklist. We want you nothing less than the epitome of fabulosity this fall. Stop the presses, cause a traffic pile up or simply work it on your own personal runway with these simple must-haves.

Charles by Charles David - Model

Over-the-knee Boots
Admittedly this is not a new trend. OTK boots have been back in swing since Anne Hathaway strolled into the Vogue offices on The Devil Wears Prada in 2006. From that moment the previously cliché trashy turned classy in an instant. Over the years we have seen it grow into the most popular style of the season.

Shown in Grey. More colors available.

Fur
Faux has never been hotter. Whatever you buy this year, buy fur—really. You will be one of the square kids eating alone in the cafeteria if you don't. Fur is on EVERYTHING from hats to scarves to boot covers to bracelets. Not big on fur? No problem; any small accessory will keep you in the "in" crowd. And if you have a pact with PETA, faux fur is the new vegan leather. We wouldn't recommend you wearing it to a rally, but feel guilt free when you are making the purchase.

We love this rabbit fur headband by Martine et Bonal

Steve Madden - Cameronn

Lace-ups
Our guest blogger Anjelica put it best as she rocked this fabulous look in one of her posts, "the trend is timeless—a classic, really. Lace-ups can be casual, dressy or just plain chic." Enough said, thanks Anjelica; we think the same. 

 Wear short or tall; with flowy dresses or nothing at all.

Photo courtesy of Asos

Capes/Ponchos
Traditionally classy women never left this look. This über-comfortable and stylish outerwear has a little something for all this fall. Wear it with jeans, pant suit or as a simple one-piece garment accessorized to a T.

We're loving this exquisite Tweed Pocket cape from See by Chloe. It has a modern twist yet is very versatile.

Calvin Klein - Sallie

Peep Toe Booties
The re-emergence of legwear has made this one-time spring/summer shoe available for fall. The look is not for everyone (especially if you have sensitive toes), but worn with a pair of designer tights or girlie knee-high socks, this edgy, city-girl style will make the masses swoon.

Photo courtesy of Paige Denim

Denim Jackets
Revive this classic! If you have one hiding in your closet, dust it off, remove the band buttons and wear with pride. We suggest a dark, fitted denim as a classic long-lasting investment piece. This one by Paige Denim can be transformed from sporty to business-casual with a simple change of accessories. For the more forward, pair with jeans for a now-acceptable Canadian tuxedo!

High Fashion 5792

Classic Frame Bags
The obsession with Mad Men has inspired a generation of '50s-era conservative flair. The structured handbag must to be the bag of the year. Work it with casual, professional or evening looks.

Miz Mooz - Histeric

Loafers/Oxfords
Comfortable, stylish and just plain cute, the oxford look melts us. Our guest blogger, Kitty, (or should we say Nancy Drew) predicted this trend in August. And, well, she was right. You can't wear the plushest knitwear, curvaceous pencil skirt and classic bag without a pair of these, now could you?

Zamara!

With her thigh-high height and unexpected peeptoe, Sam Edelman's Zamara is full of surprising details. For starters, the functional rear zipper runs the full length of the leg from the top to the ground, making it one of the longest zippers we've ever seen on a boot. 

Seamless suede panels attempt to conceal the platform and curved heel, but the sheer thickness of it paired with a shocker-of-a-peeptoe only highlight the remarkable height of both the base and leg shaft. With Fall 2010's over-the-knee trend, taller is always better. And you can't get much higher than Zamara.

Small pewter studs trim the top of the leg, with a peek of metallic lining adding a subtle punch of color for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse. We love Zamara for those unexpected accents. Who would've thought that an open toe on an exceedingly tall suede boot would work? And who needs a full-length zipper that covers even the heel? Some details don't make sense until you see them put together. And we have to admit—those quirky details take this boot beyond ordinary and into the realm of must-have fashion. 


Wear over leggings or skinny jeans with an over-sized sweater or poncho for a casually fashionable fall look. For a night out, wear Zamara over brightly colored tights and pair with a mini-dress for a look that will have all eyes on you.