GENTS CLUB: FIVE ALIVE

They aren’t just for the court anymore. They aren’t ragtag, grab and go afterthoughts either. Contemporary tennis sneakers, in case it wasn’t abundantly clear, are the total package, wardrobe-wise. Newsflash: you need these shoes in your life.

Retro leather trainers just get it done, period, with a modicum of fuss. When well cared for, they seamlessy complement a wide range of looks with chameleon-like ease. Spotlesswhite tennis sneakers? Worn sans socks, a natural match for a grey seersucker suit at the office or a semi-formal afternoon function. Conversely, dress up those black leather tennis sneakers with a dark, tailored suit and black fitted tee. At dinner or at the club, here’s a look guaranteed to win some respect. And bonus: both ensembles walk the line between casual and dressy. There’s enough flexibility here, in other words, to tone it down or take it to another level.

Colored tennis shoes are just as adaptable. Got some neutral jeans or tapered chinos in your closet? Perfect for burgundy, green or navy colored tennis shoes. Be sure to cuff that denim. Add a light jacket or crewneck sweater and you’re off to the races. Not literally of course. Today’s versatile tennis sneakers are much more about playing it cool than working up a sweat.

TRIPLE THREAT: BLUE SUEDE SHOES

They’re the stuff of legend: blue suede shoes have been in the national consciousness since 1955 when Carl Perkins wrote a song about them and Elvis Presley turned it into amassive hit. So what’s the deal and why are they worthy of being serenaded? Well, if they’re derbies we’re talking about, it’s because a pair of blue suede shoes are some of the most versatile, wearable, and classically stylish footwear a man can have in his wardrobe. And the OGEAIRE, with a subtle wooden sole and perforated detail give it an unparalleled cool that take it to the next.

Think about it: blue derbies work in almost any setting you can think of (black tie notwithstanding). The silhouette is totally office-worthy, and while black and brown used to be the only shoe colours to wear, these days navy is perfect in a casual office environment (just don’t go crazy with the rest of your colours – we recommend keeping your outfit neutral, with a pair of dark pants and a crisp button-up shirt). For the weekend, there’s nothing cooler than a casual khaki-coloured suit and the laid-back feel of suede. And when it comes time to party? We love the idea of keeping it sharp with a tonal look, and a little bit of sheen in the suit. All three of these looks are just right with a no-sock sock, some exposed ankle, and a skinny tailored pant. Cuz it’s one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready now go, cat, go!

SHOUT OUT: SPRING 2015 STYLE ROUND UP

They love us (and we love them too)

Our favourite instafamous babes were spotted, showing the world how they’re sporting some of the best shoes and bags from our Spring Summer collection.  From high shaft gladiators to fringe cross bodies and show stopping pumps, here’s our roundup of our favourite looks so far, it’s hot and summer is just getting started!

FINAL TOUCH: THE UNSUNG SUMMER HERO

Espadrilles. They’ve been worn by soldiers, priests, miners, royalty, runway models, presidents, and artists. JFK and Salvador Dalí? Big fans. They’ve been worn, in fact, by sensible footwear aficionados for millennia. True story. Archaeologists once unearthed a primitive pair of espadrilles off a skeleton in a bat cave in Spain. The shoes were later estimated at 4,000 years old. Just think about that for a second. When people were referring to the wonders of the ancient world as “those crazy new buildings over there,” people were wearing espadrilles.

For a shoe style to not only endure – but thrive – for that long, it has to be doing something right. As it turns out, espadrilles do a whole lot of things right. Their original function – provide a well-made, comfortable shoe that contours to the feet – is still intact. Plus they look sharp, which never hurts. Slip-on espadrilles (worn sockless, natch) get it done in everything from sportier threads to informal work wear. They’re breezy and ultra-light, yet durable enough to withstand a little pavement pounding. Rock them at the office, at the beach, at that weekend deck party, or wherever your summer takes you. Sandals and flip-flops are over gentlemen. It’s espadrille season.

FINAL TOUCH: NEW HEIGHTS

In the world of toe-showing soles, footbeds determinedly stand out from a crowd of summer sandals. No one is ever left with a feeling of indifference at the sight of the vertically elevated stepper. In short, you either love them or loathe them. In order to fully grasp the platform silhouette that shaped any 90s’ kid fashion education, a little background info is needed. Growing up with style mentors such as the Spice Girls, anything with a footbed quickly went from boring to groundbreaking. Unfortunately, even with all the girl power of the ultimate all-female band of the 90s’, the innovative stunner couldn’t stand the test of time – until 20 years later.

With the arrival of the 2010s, the “ugly” shoe by excellence was back & more controversial than ever. As a matter of fact, the hipster era gave intellectual birth to the notion that “ugly” is the new rad. And, by all means, we couldn’t agree more. Case in point: we plan on wearing the jacked up thong sandal with a simple yet print-astic dress for a BBQ sesh with the fam. We are giving ourselves a little height without missing out on all the fun. Even though we can already anticipate our feet getting weird looks, we’respicing up our lives with funky footbeds.

DETAILS DETAILS: OFF THE SCALE

With everyone from Azzedine Alaïa to Alexander Wang shining the spotlight on snakeskin for Spring/Summer 2015, there’s no question a come-slither motif is a major must-have this season.

Adding instant glam to any outfit, python prints are the perfect accessory for your sultry-weather style. Get jaw-dropping gams on your next date night with a strappy-heeled sandal that looks killer with a flirty little dress in black or white while creating that legs-for-days effect we all long for. On the hunt for new, no-fuss neutral? A chunky heel mule goes from punching the clock to patios in chic, breezy charm and works with everything from a pencil skirt to boyfriend jeans. Speaking of taking serpent prints out for a casual spin, you can always use mixed-fabrics to add bite to any off-duty denim ensemble.

Here’s another plus for python: infusing your attire with an exotic flair is just as easy with a snakeskin-print pump with neon front vamp or coloured heel. Lend some swish to the season’s seventies-inspired styles with a snakeskin tote, or tuck a slick serpentine clutchunder your arm to make summer’s sophisticated separates and head-to-toe whites look extra hot. Consider us charmed!

CULTURE HACK: WAY-BACK PLAYBACK

Wearing your jelly sandals is just one way to revive the best activities from the ’90s.

From baby backpacks to crop tops and the Netflix Saved by the Bell reunion, our current obsession with the ’90s knows no bounds. You can even download a Tamagotchi for your Apple Watch. Clearly, there’s only one way to have fun this summer, and that’s by reliving the glory days, pre-Y2K style.

All ’90s fun starts at the mall, where you can play your favourite arcade games (Pac-Man! Mortal Kombat! Pin Ball!) and meet up with your friends in the food court for some Orbitz before catching the latest Freddie Prinz Jr. movie. If you want to chill in your ’hood, grab your Pogs, your boom box and your latest (or oldest) CDs (Backstreet’s back, alright?) and meet your posse outside for some serious hangs. Even a quarter of Girl’s Tyme, also known as Destiny’s Child, so basically Beyonce is in on this revival action. You can even see her taking a trip to a retro roller rink in the “Blow” video.

Being a ’90s child means straight up looking the part, so make sure you have the essentials on lock. A pair of denim overalls are legit the coolest (bonus points if they’re Tommy Hilfiger) along with a vintage T-shirt—think big, dead-stock logos like Hypercolor, Vuarnet or even No Fear. And when it comes to ’90s summer footwear, only two words matter: jelly sandals.

RINGS AND THINGS: SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Why do we call those graceful girls – the ones who can flit from group to group, charming folks in their wake – social butterflies? Because they glide like the butterfly, stopping just long enough to make friends, then soar off to the next destination for more. But do you know what that lovely butterfly was before she was the elegant creature everyone wants at their event? A caterpillar: furry and slow. As summer approaches, remember that even the beautiful social butterfly evolved to become the person she is.

But just because everyone has both on days and off doesn’t mean your style ever has to suffer! A whimsical white clutch with cut-out details is just the thing for spring and summer get-togethers. Wear it with a handful of silver accessories: an oversized statement ring, plus a set of three stackable ones, silver bracelets, and a pair of sunglasses with translucent rims. Combined, the look capitalizes on a mix of cool whites and silvers, giving it an effortless, urban appeal: a little tough but very fun.  Wear it with easy staples like a chambray or denim shirt, white jean shorts, and red lips. Wear your hair down with a deep side part or up top in a perfectly imperfect messy knot. So even if you’re not the world’s most social gal, you’ll still look like the life of the party.

SUNDAY STROLL: RAD DADS RULE

A shout-out to all the special dads out there.

Father’s Day is around the corner, which means it’s time, once again, to pay homage to dudes everywhere who take care of business. Dudes who just get it done, period. For their kids, for their partners, for their friends–you name it. Dudes who, despite all the crazy demands on their time, still manage to stay hip and radiate coolness. These fathers are modern-day renaissance men who balance dynamic careers with busy family and social lives. They’re active, they’re on the scene, they’re forward-looking. Call them dads 2.0.

You know the type, right? Shucks, maybe you are the type. Millenial dads who aren’t afraid to don a baby carrier around the park with floral espadrilles and aviator sunglasses. Contemporary, hipster padres who refuse to play it safe and can rock accessories like a backpack, a sweet timepiece, and some funky bracelets with confidence and ease. These groovy dads are dialed in, plugged in, and represent a new breed of fatherhood. We think these new-fashioned, progressive heroes deserve some love and special treatment, don’t you? Let’s salute them this Father’s Day Sunday with a day off that befits their awesomeness. Give that special dad in your life the best gift possible–time to himself to spend whichever way he pleases. And hey, if you are that special dad, we tip our hats to you.

FINAL TOUCH: THAT ’70S TREND

Over the past few seasons, the ’70s have been giving the fashion industry major feels. And while you’ve probably put away your festival-worthy florals and bell-sleeved rompers by now, it’s no secret the trend is still going strong, as designers continued to draw on classic boho details for Fall/Winter 2015/2016, from suede and fringe to fitted turtlenecks and bell-bottom jeans.

The best way to work the boho look in cooler temps is with throwback cuts in luxe textures and toasty hues. Reach for wide-legged pants and double-breasted coats in rich shades such as navy, pumpkin and burgundy. Look for fancy fabrics like leather, silk and tweed wool while you’re at it for a ’70-inspired look that’s perfectly on point. Pull it all together with an almond-toe ankle boot featuring a tonal platform and chunky curved heel (a key shape this season) and a patchwork crossbody bag. Aside from the comfort factor, a stacked-heel boot in black or bordeaux will look equally chic with culottes as it will with a flared pant or tailored A-line skirt and tights. From back-to-back meetings to warming winter cocktails with the girls, you can flaunt that ’70s flair in your weather-appropriate ensemble all winter long.

FINAL TOUCH: NIGHT MOVES

There are two classes of shoes: the nice-to-haves, and the must-haves. So what distinguishes one from the other? It varies from person to person, but generally, nice-to-have shoes are ones you look at, and think, “Fresh kicks, but not necessarily all that practical.” Then you look at the shoes from every possible angle, hem and haw, and agonize over whether to get them or not. Maybe you do, maybe you don’t.

Then there are black dress loafers. Total must-haves. It doesn’t matter who you are, or what you do. At some point in your life–and, on more than one occasion, most likely–dress loafers are going to come in super handy. Cap your look for a posh night on the town. Earn you a complement you won’t soon forget. Turn a head or two.

Your sartorial tastes might be on the eccentric side of the fashion spectrum. That’s cool. You’re still going to need a pair of black dress loafers. Classics, especially classics as sharp as this, just never fade. And boy, are the wardrobe possibilities ever endless here. A dapper, tailored suit? Check. Fashion-forward formal-wear? Check. When you want to ooze sophisticated confidence from the feet up, this is where you start.

FINAL TOUCH: REAL TROOPERS

It seems that 2015 will be marked as the year we said goodbye to strict (and out-dated) gender codes. From the physical transformations of Caitlyn Jenner and Andreja Pejic to stores like Selfridges and Target saying goodbye to gender-specific merchandising, these days we’re all about blurring the lines of identity, and of course that includes all matters of personal style.  

Put your own unique spin on the runway-favourite utilitarian look that’s been appropriated by everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Marc Jacobs. Comfortable and easy-to-wear, cargo pieces need never look schleppy (unless you want them to) with an on-trend approach to styling. To keep this menswear-inspired style looking fresh, consider mixing up different proportions and colours, like high-rise black skinny jeans with an oversized safari-inspired jacket. Neutral khakis and green provide an old-school army allure that’s balanced out by a ladylike handbag, while a striped crop-top adds a hint of subversive femininity.

And for the finishing touch, the thigh-high Adeasien boots will be your new go-tos every time you feel like making a statement. These leather beauties combine a never-ending lace-up with lug-tread soles, a genius pairing that’s part tough, part feminine and one hundred percent new.  

MEET THE CAST: OLU ALEGE – IRL

Even though living on the east coast sucks when we’re in February, one of its perks is having four seasons – woot woot. Our December campaign mister knows all about the magic involved in seeing the leaves change color; however, it’s another story when the trees are covered in snow – s**t happens. Our weather might be a tad bipolar, but at least it gives us the opportunity to go wild with our wardrobe choices. And, Olu’s snaps prove he sure knows where it’s at with sick season-appropriate #ootds. Learn more about him & the Climate Control collection, here. 

FINAL TOUCH: ICE BREAKER

Stylish combat boots are a cold weather must-have.

Everyday style. We see these words a lot, but what, when put together, do they signify? What is everyday style? Sure, it’s how you choose to dress on a so-called average day, of course, whatever that is, when no special events, or galas are on the old planner. (If black-tie is commonplace for you, forgive us in advance.) But everyday style is also a state of mind. A vibe you give off, a mood. Your best baseline fashion statement, in other words.

Naturally, this changes from season to season. And now that winter’s around the corner, we’ve got boots on the brain as a go-to exemplar of everyday style. Miltary-style combat boots, to be specific. Here’s a footwear prototype that gets the job done–wool-lined, keeps you warm, covers the ankles, repels the elements–and looks astonishingly cool with jeans, sweaters, leather jackets, flannel shirts, and other paragons of Americana-inspired casual wear.

Leather combat boots can pull double duty when your everyday look veers to the dressier side of the wardrobe, too. Bonus! Chunky vests, heavy fall jackets, winter puffers–you can stomp around in a variety of styles here. Layer up, these boots just love that, and storm the day. You’re well-equipped for it now.

FINAL TOUCH: ON POINT

Can we just take a minute to talk pants lengths? Most of us can agree that until kind of recently we were wearing our pant hems pretty long. And then a few seasons ago we collectively started to see things differently. Palazzo pants, cropped pants, ankle length hems: it’s part of a straight up fashion movement and as shoe lovers – ok, obsessives – we’re all over it! Coverage where you need it and skin where you don’t, plus an excuse to show off our amazing footwear? Don’t mind if we do.

There’s just one tiny thing about a shortened pant leg: it can potentially give the impression of a shorter leg. Of course, there’s an incredibly easy solve for this. First, a monochromatic look can help to balance that out. And second? Why, a heel of course! We love the idea of having a slightly surprising color at the foot – something that still works within your spectrum, but that brings with it a rich, sophisticated feel. For instance, doing an all-over orange look? Try something in camel. Wearing cognac hues? Do a Bordeaux in suede. Paired with a series of neutral tones, a Bordeaux is a warm welcome, like a glass of red wine by a crackling fire in the South of France. Except that while you’re watching the fire, everyone else will be watching you.

CARRY ON: THE FESTIVAL SET

Failsafe festival wear coming right up!

Much is made of festival fashion, and that’s because it’s awesome. Seriously – where else can you tap into your most unencumbered and creative self? Where else is it totally safe to let your fashion flag fly, to go all out and yet still be one of the crowd? And not to freak you out or anything, but it’s time to get to it because summer is nearly half over. Sorry to bum you out with harsh vibes, but it’s true.  So grab passes to whatever you can – Osheaga, OVO fest, Gathering of the Vibes, Austin Psych Fest, North coast Music Festival, or the myriad of other fests taking place this summer – and get going.

Looking for a failsafe festi-outfit? Since heels are obviously a rookie mistake (hello mud, oh hi there porta-potty) we suggest a gladiator sandal instead:  bold, sexy, and made for stomping around. Pair with cut-off shorts and almost anything on top. A printed envelope clutch adds a graphic element and also looks good as you wave it around. And since this is fest-fash we’re talking about, sunglasses, some beaded bracelets, and a long necklaceare practically mandatory – but they’ll also help pull your outfit together. Now go go go! Because you need to start having all the fun, like, right now.

CAMPAIGN CREATION: FALL 2015 INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE

INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE

A glimpse inside our new Fall/Winter 2015 campaign is all you need to get stoked for the season ahead. The video features a diverse cast of authentic personalities, including street style fave Irene Kim, director Sandra Winther, model/musician Staz Lindes, DJ Will Power, and radiologist/home improvement blogger Chris Nicholas. The cast of the campaign was chosen for their unique personal style and creative expressions representing a range of tastes, experiences and lifestyles. Each portrait and accompanying still life is as distinct as the person they represent; their inspirations on full display both literally and figuratively. We’re paying tribute to those who find inspiration in the everyday, the everywhere, and the everything.

Inspired? See the collection here.

FINAL TOUCH: BLOCK PARTY

Make a colourful statement and flash your brights this fall

There’s something comforting about wearing all black: It’s flattering and ultimately foolproof, but then again, it’s not exactly fun. So while the end of summer might seem like the right time to start falling back on sombre hues, we say turn up the colour for an unexpected take on between-season style.

With colour mash-ups making a splash on Fall 2015 runways including Céline, J.W. Anderson, Rag & Bone and Fausto Puglisi (to name but a few), feel free to take a “more is more” approach this season when it comes to mixing shades.

A two-tone pump is the perfect place to start, especially one that combines punchy fuchsia with a lacquered red block heel. Then it might be tempting to let your statement shoes do the talking, but why keep the rest of your outfit simple when you can speak volumes in other vibrant shades? The best day-to-play outfits are a blend of sophistication and sass, so dare to be bold in your choice of palette while keeping your silhouettes on point. Anchored by a classic white blouse, a cobalt-blue pencil skirt beats any neutral alternative by a long shot. Pull it all together with a structured purse that plays off a colour from your soles, and you’ll be putting a fresh spin on colour-coordinated dressing straight through the fall.

FINAL TOUCH: LAYER SLAYER

Want to hone your personal style this fall? Show some restraint.

You probably know and admire––and possibly even resent?––someone who makes it all look so effortless. Fashion-wise, that is. In fact, you definitely know the type. These are the people who, ostensibly, wake up every day and slide into the perfect ensemble with breezy conviction. These unflappable sorts are not style mavens or especially clothes-obsessed; they just exude a cool self-assurance, and wear what feels comfortable, and, as it happens, what looks good.

Trust, however, that these folks put more forethought into their wardrobes than you think. They execute this bit of harmless sartorial deception thanks, in large part, to calculated simplicity and restraint. Layers, neutral colors, several carefully chosen items that mix and match well, a key accessory here and there; this is how you own casual fall weekends.

When it comes to autumn-appropriate wear, it so often starts with a classic sneaker: say,all-black low tops, for argument’s sake. Consider this a solid base to build on. Don’t hide those lace-ups either––cuffed skinny trousers or jeans, in black or dark grey, are the right move. Stick to the same color scheme on top, with a white tee thrown in for good measure, as you layer with light jumpers, cardigans, and sweaters. Remember: you don’t have to do much for your fall weekend wardrobe to be greater, and more versatile, than the sum of its parts.

FINAL TOUCH: STYLE BLUEPRINT

Play it cool in a pair of bold blue kicks

There will always be those anxious few who insist on wearing sandals before the last snow has melted and busting out the boots while the weather is still warm. After months of sporting the same stuff, it only makes sense to want to rush the new season, but there’s being ahead of the curve and then there’s #TooSoon. Thankfully, there is a way to shake things up while still living in the moment, sartorially speaking.

Take the shift from summer to fall: Why swap out your open-toe shoes for something clunky when you can keep the spring in your step with a stylish sneaker, especially one in an eye-catching colour like cobalt blue?

So much more than a weekend staple, a sporty shoe in a saturated hue is the perfect way to give your polished ensembles a cool and unexpected twist. From your commute to cocktails with friends, head-turning kicks will stand out in a sea of ho-hum soles while lending everything from office separates to ’70s-inspired suedes a modern look. Opting for a weather-appropriate shoe that’s fashionable and functional? Now that’s what we call a bright idea!

FINAL TOUCH: SLINGBACK TO REALITY

Tiptoe into Fall with a Pair of Red Slingback Sandals

Back to school shopping really is the best kind of shopping, even if you aren’t technically going back to school. While you may not be stocking your pencil case with fresh pens and pencils anymore, fall is the ideal time of year to refresh your work wardrobe. Picking up some chic new duds for the office can really revamp how you feel about that 9 to 5 grind and add some instant newfound polish to your young profesh look.

That said, summer is always way too short, and you’re probably not ready to put away your open toes just yet. A pair of chunky-heeled slingback sandals is a classic yet trendy way to help transition your wardrobe into the fall. Made of red snakeskin print, these low-heeled slingbacks are the kind of shoes you can easily style for work and weekend hangs, combining feminine and put-together vibes while still being chic and cool. Pair them with your new, heavier work basics that you can wear from the tail end of summer well past Thanksgiving, like a corduroy skirt that will look just as great with opaque black tights as it does with bare legs. Plus, these sophisticated sandals are a fun way to incorporate a little colour into a neutral fall look.