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By on June 20, 2014 in Fashion
Image by Thaís Santos, Flickr

Image by Thaís Santos, Flickr

Summer is here, and your polar vortex pumps just won’t do. Your tolerance for winter is worn out, and so are your winter shoes. They are probably tired, and crusted with salt, and crying out to be retired – time for a change. Consider humouring pop star and cultural fashion icon Taylor Swift, and buying a pair of oxford heels. Swift recently told People magazine,

I really like an oxford high heel for kind of looking more like either a student or like you’re going to work. I don’t know, there’s something (that gives me some normality). That’s what I kind of like to channel when I’m wearing them.

Swift is right, oxford heels are the perfect shoe for female students. Oxford heels are stylish, closed leather heels that snugly strap onto the foot either with a delicate buckle or ladylike laces. Oxford heels are appropriate for the classroom, stylish studying with friends, or an upscale restaurant.

However, contrary to Swift’s studious image of oxford heels, I have not witnessed many female university students wearing them. The most popular shoewear for students seems to be ballet flats, or through the colder months, leather boots.

The top front of the oxford heel, the part of a woman’s shoe usually left open, extends up to the ankle or has a strap across it, allowing the oxford heel to lace or buckle firmly onto your foot. This makes it easier to run to your 8:00 A.M. class when you sleep late. Oxford heels are easier to run in than even flats, as flats are prone to slip off or slap onto the pavement with each step, because of their open tops. The faux leather variety oxford heel also proves to be fairly weather-proof than other suede, or genuine leather dress shoes. If you are like me and have trouble balancing on heels, try oxford flats: a cute, shorter alternative to their heeled counterpart. Oxford flats are similar to men’s dress shoes, but are sleeker and more feminine.

Oxford heels are this summer’s fashion-forward footwear. Like Taylor, grab a pair to match your studious style with an academic ambition.

Image by vintspiration, Flickr

Image by vintspiration, Flickr

By on March 27, 2014 in Fashion

 
 

Image by ...love Maegan, Flickr

Image by …love Maegan, Flickr

If there’s one thing for sure in today’s world, it’s that we can never quite be sure what the weather is going to do next. Much of North America has taken a battering recently with wild storms and buckets of rain, and Canadians know only too well the difficulties that low temperatures can bring. And of course, this can present problems for the fashion-conscious.

Thankfully though, a few wise wardrobe choices will allow you to swing between the seasons perfectly. It may be dull and drab at the moment, but summer is most definitely on the horizon. When you know the weather is going to be this erratic, it is safe to keep your summer skirts and shorts on hold from the hibernation tank for the time being.
You can do this because just a slight turn of the fashion dial is all it takes to keep your summer look intact. For instance, if you enjoy donning the hot pants style, all you need to do is slide into a pair of black leggings or tights first before pulling on those shorts and you’re away, safe in the knowledge that if the weather dips suddenly you won’t be blighted with goosebumps.

The same applies to summer dresses. You can team your favourite dresses with some appropriately-toned leggings or tights without diminishing the effect of your dress one little bit. In fact, it can sometimes add to the overall look and give you a pop-chic appearance. Again, the addition of leggings/tights will give you a little protection during climate change, particularly when the sun does dip beyond the horizon and the temperature plummets drastically.

For added warmth, you can always turn to light cardigans and thin jackets to cover up, which again will not only make wearing summer dresses feasible, but will give you an extra style zip along the way.

Lastly, never underestimate the “preppy” look when seeking to prolong the life of your summer wardrobe. The long-sleeve layer under short-sleeve top is still a good look for the ladies, another little trick that is a sure-fire winner.

This article was contributed by guest author Mitch W.

By on February 20, 2014 in Fashion

 
 
Getting sick and tired of the bitter cold weather? Winter definitely has its downsides, but it is the perfect time to spice up your style and experiment with the latest fashion crazes. Here are some of this season’s trends that you can incorporate into your style for the next few months to help you beat the winter blues:

fur  
 
Faux fur scarves are the way to go this winter season. This type of scarf is a classic and adds elegance to any look, so opt to dress up a basic outfit by accessorizing with this piece. The best part is that no animals are harmed in the making of this chic accessory!
coats
Wearing a long, oversized coat is the best way to achieve the best of both worlds. Stay warm while still looking fashionable by topping off your outfit with a coat that is on the longer side. A-list celebrities such as Kim Kardashian have been spotted wearing this trend all winter long.
 
 
Statement necklaces are another great way to make a plain outfit more exciting. Necklaces with crystal jewels are beautiful during any season, but especially during the winter when everything is white and icy outside.		 necklace
beanie
Having a bad hair day? Don’t fret. This season, girls are combatting those types of days by throwing on a beanie. Beanies add a grungy feel to any outfit, which is right on point with this winter’s street style trends. On top of that, some beanies have fun sayings written across the forehead area that you can use to express yourself and your personal style.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mid length pencil skirts are what all the rave is about right now. This length of skirt is suitable for many different occasions since it screams sexy and sophisticated. You can rock this trend for a job interview or for a night out on the town.		 pencil
neon  
 
During the winter months, we tend to gravitate towards darker toned garments. Try adding a pop of colour to your outfit by throwing on a neon accessory. This will brighten up your entire look and add some interest to an otherwise bland outfit.
sweater
A chunky knit sweater will never go out of style. It is the perfect way to stay warm and cozy while looking effortlessly cute. Tuck yours into an A-line skirt to achieve a polished look, or pair it with some leggings if you’re going for a more relaxed vibe.
olive  
 
Last but certainly not least, this winter season is seeing a ton of olive green coloured pieces. Wearing this shade is appropriate in the winter months because it is not too bright, but still allows you to branch away from the typical blacks, deep blues, and maroons.

Hopefully this has inspired you to make the best of the cold winter weather and have some fun trying out a few of this season’s hottest trends.

Happy styling!

Photo credit: Hidden Exposure and hengyan512@hotmail.com

By on October 2, 2013 in Fashion
A few of our fashion picks work in jackets, chic style, and this fall's maroon colour. Photo Credit: Francesca Della Savia

A few of our fashion picks work in jackets, chic style, and this fall’s maroon colour. Photo Credit: Francesca Della Savia

Fall is definitely one of the most beautiful times of the year. The ever so colourful leaves, brisk yet cozy weather, and the feeling of reinvention are all incredibly inspiring aspects of the season. Each of these elements can be reflected in some way through fall fashion. The colourful leaves inspire rich, jewel-toned pieces, while the weather encourages bulky sweaters, statement jackets, and trendy boots. Most importantly, with the start of school, fall is the perfect time to reinvent yourself – especially when it comes to your personal style.

Since universities and colleges are filled with thousands of students, it is very easy to merely blend in and just become a number. Utilizing fashion as a means of showcasing individuality and personality is a great way to set you apart and be remembered – in a good way, of course!

Here are some tips to get students through the fall season looking fabulous, but without breaking the bank:

  1. Don’t let the arrival of a new season make you feel as if you have to buy a completely new wardrobe.

    2. Transition staple pieces from season to season, and make them appear as if they are new by styling them in different ways.

  2. Shop the newest trends, but at reasonable prices.

    3. Trends come and go, and will not necessarily be carried into the next season or the next year. Indulge in the latest fashions, but look for these pieces at inexpensive stores such as H&M, Forever 21, and Zara. You can then pair these items with higher quality staples that are already in your closet.

  3. Share wardrobes with your friends!

    4. Take advantage of the fact that your friends have great style, and swap pieces with each other whenever you feel as if you have nothing to wear. This allows for you to be versatile and it can save you loads of money.

  4. Dress for success.

    5. Even when those lazy days strike, push through and rock a chic outfit. This will instantly boost your mood and help increase productivity. Looking good makes you feel good, and it is important to feel good at school so that you can be attentive and accomplish your goals. Just don’t forget to ensure that your outfits are school-appropriate.

  5. Be yourself.

    6. Fashion is an art, and what you wear should express the type of person you are. Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and good about yourself. Confidence is the best accessory – even if you are wearing something that may not typically appeal to the masses, you will look great if you wear it with confidence.

Add a little denim or military inspiration to your outfit this fall. Photo Credit: Francesca Della Savia

Add a little denim or military inspiration to your outfit this fall. Photo Credit: Francesca Della Savia

With the beginning of a new season comes the introduction of new fashion trends. This fall, maroon-coloured pieces, chunky sweaters, leather accents, black and white combinations, military inspired outfits, denim on denim, statement jackets, and trendy boots are among some of the hottest crazes. Hopefully the images we’re showing you will provide some inspiration for this season.

Happy styling!

Model Emily Mais shows us how to add a key trendy item to spice up an everyday outfit. Photo Credit: Francesca Della Savia

Model Emily Mais works a trendy item into everyday outfits. Photo Credit: Francesca Della Savia