I want – I got Loves Poppy Barley

I want - I got Loves Poppy Barley
I want – I got Loves Poppy Barley

I’ve been completely spoiled by my custom fitted boots from Poppy Barley. It won’t be possible for me to buy another pair of tall boots off the rack again because nothing is going to fit as well. Poppy Barley is an Edmonton based shoe brand that I first heard about in the summer. They offer custom, handcrafted footwear that is Canadian designed and ethically made in Mexico. Sisters, Kendall and Justine Barber are the brains behind the brand. The idea of Poppy Barley came to Justine when she was on vacation in Bali. She came upon a local shoemaker and was disappointed when a pair of boots she wanted didn’t come in her size. The shoemaker said no problem, measured her feet, processed her address and payment. A few weeks later, her custom made shoes showed up at her door in Edmonton. While this is an affordable option for many shoe buyers in other parts of the world, it isn’t common in Canada. Justine had the idea that she wanted to bring custom made footwear to the Canadian market.

I want - I got Loves Poppy Barley
I want – I got Loves Poppy Barley

Justine recruited her sister, Kendall to join her on this business venture. They did extensive research before partnering up with Laura who is the Operations Manager and Lupita who owns the Studio where Poppy Barley’s shoes are handcrafted. Laura and Lupita are based in León, Mexico which has been called the Footwear capital of the world. The Poppy Barley site has extensive material on their manufacturing practices available giving the consumer a level of transparency not seen in the Canadian shoe industry.

I want - I got Loves Poppy Barley
I want – I got Loves Poppy Barley

The Poppy Barley team visited Toronto in the fall last year and hosted a series of appointments for customers to get sized, check out the collection in person and order a new pair of shoes. I was invited to a breakfast to meet the team and get a look at the collection in person. When I first discovered Poppy Barley, I thought it was a great idea. There were existing companies doing some custom footwear that are American based and I always love seeing Canadians make a go of it.

I want - I got Loves Poppy Barley
I want – I got Loves Poppy Barley

Buying boots is a horrible experience for me and for many others. It takes so much time to find a pair of boots that fit acceptably in a style I enjoy. Too many compromises are made that leave me mostly unsatisfied with my purchases. I bought my last pair of tall flat black boots over 6 years ago and they reached end of life. I was dreading the search to replace them that I pretty much avoided it. Custom footwear was a perfect option but I’m pretty old school in my purchasing. I needed to see the product in person first. A good Photographer can make any piece of shit look great and that leads to disappointment when it finally arrives at your door.

In terms of quality and style, Poppy Barley did not disappoint. They had samples of almost every style and colourway of shoe they produce on hand. There is beautiful Poppy Barley branding on the soles and ankles of the shoes and I love the long rectangular zipper pulls on the tall boots. The shoes got major props from me because they are leather lined. The leather was supple and the construction was sturdy. Poppy Barley produces classic boot and shoes styles that will never look dated. They’ve just recently introduced a men’s line and will eventually recreate those styles in a woman’s last/. I’m excited about the men’s brogue fitted to a woman’s foot possibilities. To mix things up, Poppy Barley augments the main collection with Limited Edition versions made with different leathers.

Kendall and Justine made the Poppy Barley visit even better by letting me in on the Poppy Barley experience. They generously let me select a pair of shoes and took me through the whole fitting process. The fitting process sounds like it’s complicated but anyone can do it from the comfort of their own home. (http://poppybarley.com/how/) For those of you that want an expert’s touch, Poppy Barley hosts fitting appointments Toronto at another great Canadian shoe brand, Brodawka & Friends and Edmonton. Check the website to setup an appointment or find out when the next Poppy Barley Pop Up is scheduled.

This was the perfect opportunity to replace my tall flat black boots. They are a wardrobe must and I there was a massive hole in my wardrobe options. It wasn’t an easy choice and I spent a good chunk of time figuring out which ones to go for. I also flipped between flat and heeled boots because the Poppy Barley heel boots are pretty amazing too. After much bemoaning, I settled on The Foxhunt Boot in all black. It’s a classic riding boot with gold hardware. In addition to the standard foot measurements like size and width, I was able to customize the calf size and height of the boot. I have long legs so having the option to customize the height of the boot was a godsend. Ditto for the calf size as it’s always been a bitch getting boots to fit my calves. I’m an ex-athlete and always felt that the standard calf sizes were made for women with toothpick legs. So here was Poppy Barley that allowed me to order the boot I wanted without compromise. That’s massive!

So the hardest part of this whole process was anticipation. Each Poppy Barley shoe is made to order in Mexico and takes about 4 to 8 weeks depending on the shoe type. I ordered on November 15, 2014 and the boots shipped out on January 21, 2015. I was on vacation in Whistler when they arrived. It was one of the only reasons, I was happy to return to flatland. For those of you that don’t want to wait 8 weeks for shoes, Poppy Barley had a ready to wear line also in standard sizes that you can order from. I’d suggest you go for the custom though.

Unboxing was delightful. The boots were exactly like the samples I saw. I had no surprises in terms of quality. Of course, the fit was like nothing I’ve experienced before. The length and width was perfect when wearing tights or socks while the calf size was spot on. The only part of the boot that required some breaking in was the zipper side of the ankle and that only took a couple wears. I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t need to add grips to the bottom of my boots. I took the Foxhunt boots into the tundra like conditions Toronto seems to be serving up these days and I didn’t slip and slide all over the place. I can truly say they are the best pair of boots I’ve ever owned.
Also included in my boot purchase was an Organic Collonil Leather Care Kit which came with Organic Bamboo Lotion, Organic Protect and Care, Combi Brush and a polishing cloth. I had no idea there was organic leather care products out there. I immediately put the Organic Protect and Care on my boots. It was nice to be able to use the product indoors and it didn’t have the harsh chemical smell that other products have. I haven’t used the Organic Bamboo Lotion yet but have successfully used Boot Rescue wipes to get rid of salt stains.

I want - I got Loves Poppy Barley
I want – I got Loves Poppy Barley

So, I hope I’ve convinced you to give Poppy Barley a chance. This company is a godsend if you have a hard to fit feet or you just want the experience of custom footwear without going the whole bespoke route. I’m a convert and plan to get myself a pair of Promenade or Highline boots in the near future. I even have a great customer service story to pass on to you guys. I mentioned how much I love the zipper pulls. Well, I broke one and I was fucking devastated. I was put in touch with Customer Service and I sent a few photos of the broken zipper. Thankfully, it was only the pull that was broken and Poppy Barley put a couple zipper pulls in the mail and even told me that they would reimburse me for the cost of getting my Cobbler to put them on. That there is some damn good service!

Poppy Barley’s winter sale is on till this Saturday, February 28, 2015. You can receive $50 off any boot style. This is a very rare deal on custom footwear so hop on it.

i want: Sully Wong x Amanda Lew Kee Swalk Hi Sneaker

Sully Wong x Amanda Lew Kee Swalk Hi Sneaker
Sully Wong x Amanda Lew Kee Swalk Hi Sneaker

I have a saying that I’ve repeated a lot these days, “I need another one of these like I need a hole in the head”. Lately, its been applied to coats, sweaters and shoes. I said it to myself again once I spotted the Sully Wong x Amanda Lew Kee sneaker collaboration. I don’t need another pair of sneakers because my closet is full of them but the Sully Wong x Amanda Lew Kee Swalk Hi sneaker is one incredible shoe.

Amanda has incredible style so I had big hopes for the design when I heard about the collaboration initially. She has surpassed anything I could have imagined. The shoe is perfection, I cannot lie.

“The SWALK HI collaboration personifies all aspects, both in design and philosophy, which Sully Wong and I share as a team. The design itself is sleek, smart, and constructed with the finest attention to detail and luxury materials. Together we are aiming to give the women’s market a sophisticated limited edition option, in the realm of casual athletic footwear, focusing on quality over quantity,” states Amanda Lew Kee.

The shoe not only looks slick as all fuck but the attention to detail on the materials are great. It uses a premium raw-cut leather upper, silver stitch-tag detailing, Japanese leather lined denim interior and black waxed rope laces. The leather footpad is removable making this a great option for those that wear orthotics too.

This limited edition shoe is available at GotStyle boutiques and online at SullyWong.com for $225.

images: Courtesy of Sully Wong

i want: Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy

Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy
Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy

I’m not big on the Evil Eye trend in fashion from an aesthetic point of view. That being said, I’m falling for these Pre Fall 2014 Pierre Hardy Eye Sandal and Pumps. They are obviously influenced by the talisman but I like the quirky and anime like take he’s used in the design of these shoes. I love that the eyes are the most dominate feature on the shoe. The size of the eye and its placement make these shoes look so freaking cute on. In the kitten heel, there is just the perfect amount of toe point showing. It makes me want to squeal with delight.
Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy
Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy

There are a lot of variations on the shoe. You can see there are kitten heel and regular heel sandal varieties. Pierre has also switched up the materials and colour combinations. He mixed leather, pony and suede. I’m particularly taken with the pony hair sandal in dusty pink, it’s absolutely spectacular.

I haven’t seen any Canadian retailers with the shoes yet but you can find a variety of online retailers out there.

Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy
Eye Sandal by Pierre Hardy

Net-a-Porter and Boutique 1 are selling the black sandal with Net a Porter winning out at $865 to Boutique 1’s $908.

My Theresa has the amazing dusty pink pony Eye Sandal. It’s a hot seller and if you have small feet you are in luck. They will set you back $ 965.00 USD. By Symphony also carries the dusty pin sandals and they retail for $1029 USD.

Saks Fifth Avenue is selling the kitten heel pump in black and teal and they cost $872 Canadian.

The Corner has the kitten heel pump in black and grey. They are $775 USD. I think these guys only ship to the US in North America though.

These sandals are sure to make a statement in the coming fashion months and I expect street style shots all over the place.

images: Pierrehardy.com, net-a-porter.com, Pierre Hardy Instagram, mytheresa.com, saksfitfthavenue.com

I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Fashion, Beauty and Jewellery

It’s that time of year again and I want – I got is putting together massive Gift Guides of things I think would be perfect to give as gifts this season. The fifth edition of the Gift Guides is the one we’ve been waiting for Fashion, Beauty and Jewellery. This is a big one and I could go on for days with selections.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Cabaret Vintage Flapper Dress
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Cabaret Vintage Flapper Dress

Who doesn’t love the 20s? It’s my favourite style era and I love these Vintage Style Flapper Dresses by Cabaret Vintage. They range in price from $195 to 350 and are available online or at the Queen Street location.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Comrags Quartz Border Ed Tunic
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Comrags Quartz Border Ed Tunic

It’s really unfortunate that I don’t own anything by Comrags yet (Note to self, remedy this in 2014). I love the Quartz Border Ed Tunic by Comrags for $335. It’s available online or at their Toronto location.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Philip Sparks Shoes
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Philip Sparks Shoes
I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Philip Sparks Shoes
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Philip Sparks Shoes
I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Philip Sparks Shoes
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Philip Sparks Shoes

Philip Sparks’s Footwear is amazing. I love every style with the tall boots being my absolute favourite. They range in price from $350 to $495 and are available at the Ossington location or online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Christopher Kane Sweatershirt
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Christopher Kane Sweatershirt

The ultimate sweatshirt is the Christopher Kane Resort 2014 Printed cotton-jersey sweatshirt which retails for $465 at Net-A-Porter. The Room at The Bay also carries Christopher Kane but I’m not sure if this sweater is available there.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Abel Munoz
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Abel Munoz

I finally bought my first pair of Abel Munoz shoes this year. I love Harlow Gold and Black which retails for $495 and is available online. If you are in Toronto you can book and appointment and buy the shoes in person.

SkinnI want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Lazypants
SkinnI want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Lazypants

I’ve purchased sweatpants twice in my life since turning 20. They are just something I don’t wear outside the house. Sometimes, I do need something cute to wear when running to the corner store and the laundry room. I’d be totally happy to receive Green Camo Skinnies from Lazypants are perfect. I love camo print, they are slim fit and they aren’t the traditional grey colour. They retail for $118 and is available online or at TNT.

SkinnI want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Ela
SkinnI want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Ela

I own an Ela Editor’s Pouch in rose gold but it doesn’t have stars. You can get the Ela Large Editor’s Pouch online at eLuxe.ca for $338 or visit a Holt Renfrew location.

SkinnI want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Lancome
SkinnI want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Lancome

It’s not an I want – I got gift guide if I’m not telling you to get some Lancome mascara. The Holiday Makeup Collection by Lancôme contains:
– limited edition Hypnôse Star Étincelle for $33
– Hypnôse Velours Multi-Wear Eyeliner Patches for $28

This ultra-precious kit contains 3 pairs of eyeliner patches which can be reused up to 3 times, to enhance the shape of the eye and stretch out towards the outer corner for an incredible wide-eyed look.

– Vernis in Love nail polish in Étincelle d’Agent, Étincelle de Neige and Lovered for $16 each.
I’m in love with the nail polish this holiday Étincelle de Neige has a really beautiful effect. The holiday collection is available online or at your local Lancome Counter (try The Bay, Sephora or Holt Renfrew).

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Dean Davidson
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Dean Davidson

No words are needed to describe the beauty that is Dean Davidson’s Spectrum Collar for $425. Available online and there is a select of merchandise available at Holt Renfew. It comes in several options for stones (Black Onyx, Lapis, White Topaz) and metal (Rose, Silver, Gold).

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Lancome Show False Lashes
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Lancome Show False Lashes

There are still Hypnôse Show Lashes from Lancôme. Get you hands on these false lashes designed by Alber Elbaz for $35. Available online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Shay Lowe Jewellry Glorious Emerald Statement Necklace
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Shay Lowe Jewellry Glorious Emerald Statement Necklace

Eyecatching statement jewellery is always a great gift and Shay Lowe’s Shay Lowe Jewellery Fall and Holiday Collection definitely fit the bill. I’m quite partial to the Glorious Emerald Statement Necklace which retails for $395 and is available for purchase online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Jenny Bird
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Jenny Bird

Jenny Bird is such a sweet person. I purchased some earrings from her and she gifted me the Long Horn Tusk Earrings which were inspired by the beauty of elephant tusks. They are amazing and come in a Gold version too. $55USD available online.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Marni
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Marni

Marni Eau de Parfum is my favourite new perfume of the year. It’s exclusive to Holt Renfrew and retails for $125

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Dermalogica
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Dermalogica

Dermalogica – Stock up on their favourite products or introduce them to new ones with the Holiday Skin Sets. Sets start at $32 and can be purchased online or at a licensed retailer like Concepts.

I want - I got's Holiday Gift Guide - Pink Tartan
I want – I got’s Holiday Gift Guide – Pink Tartan

Pink Tartan makes a killer full skirt. I just love the Chrysanthemum Midi Skirt in Black for $325. You can order the skirt online or at the Pink Tartan shop in Yorkville.

i got: Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim

Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim
Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim

There is a damn good reason the Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim is sold out online
is sold out online. It’s the most perfect Chelsea Boot ever!

Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim
Danny Chelsea Boot by 3.1 Phillip Lim

I wanted the rose gold Quinn loafers but The Room didn’t have my size. My heart was broken. I wandered the shoe racks deciding what to do. Finally, I bit the bullet and went for the Danny Chelsea Boot. I don’t regret it one bit. What makes these the perfect Chelsea Boot? Well the almond toe shape is slim but roomy. The shaft is streamline and fits under slim pants perfectly.
The fit is perfect, they didn’t require breaking in at all. I’ve been wearing the boots nonstop since I got them and they are so incredibly comfortable. My heels are very, very, very lonely at this point. I don’t think they’ll see the light of day until the snow starts and I have to start wearing winter boots.

images: 31philliplim.com, me

Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 Video

Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014
Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014

Proenza Schouler can do no wrong! This Spring Summer 2014 collection is so very strong with every look hitting the right notes in my style playlist. Jack and Lazaro relayed their inspiration to Hamish Bowles at Vogue:

looking at the ice-cool seventies interiors of architects and designers like Joe Colombo and Paul Rudolph, and the monumental organic furniture of the Brazilian Sérgio Rodrigues, and the North Californian J. B. Blunk. “Glass and chrome and white lacquer,” said McCollough of those vintage interiors that turned them on, “mixed up with a shaggy Moroccan rug.” “It’s minimal,” added Hernandez, “but there’s a warmth, an earthiness to it with all those green plants.”(source)

Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014
Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014

The shoes, the shoes. I want the shoes so badly!!

Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014
Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014

As always, I try not to make too many final judgements on a collection without seeing the video. The Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 fashion show is amazing! I’m so in love. I also took a look at the Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2014 trunk show on Moda Operandi. It’s just stunning.

Proenza Schouler is available online at thebay.com and in Toronto and Vancouver at The Room in Hudson’s Bay.

images: vogue.com

Hudson’s Bay Company x Converse Jack Purcell – Fall 2013

Hudson's Bay Company x Converse Jack Purcell - Fall 2013
Hudson’s Bay Company x Converse Jack Purcell – Fall 2013

Converse is killing it for Fall 2013. There is the Maison Martin Margiela collaboration and one featuring an iconic Canadian institution, Hudson’s Bay Company. Those of you that covet Hudson’s Bay Company stripes, these are the sneaker for you.

Available in the unisex Converse Jack Purcell, Duck Boot and women’s only Helen silhouettes, each style embodies the Hudson’s Bay Company wool point blanket stripes, with features such as threaded stitching and antique brass eyelets, and the Jack Purcell and Hudson’s Bay logos on the foot bed. These silhouettes also carry an official “Seal of Quality” maintaining the authenticity of Hudson’s Bay Company. Additionally, the Jack Purcell Duck features a leather collar and heel stay, as well as embroidery on the tongue of the shoe, creating an elevated style that merges these two iconic brands. (source: Press Release)

The Converse x Hudson’s Bay Company Jack Purcell collection is available exclusively at Hudson’s
Bay Stores and will retail for $120-140.

Converse x Maison Martin Margiela – Fall 2013

Converse x Maison Martin Margiela - Fall 2013
Converse x Maison Martin Margiela – Fall 2013

I talked about changing up my shoe game but Converse keeps calling me back. This collaboration with Maison Martin Margiela is pretty awesome.

“Converse is thrilled to partner with Maison Martin Margiela. The collection perfectly embodies each
brand’s spirit of individuality and self-expression unifying Converse and Margiela’s conviction of
unleashing creativity,” says Matt Sleep, Converse Senior First String Designer.(source: Press Release)

Converse x Maison Martin Margiela - Fall 2013
Converse x Maison Martin Margiela – Fall 2013

The first-time Converse Maison Martin Margiela collaboration features the Chuck Taylor All Star and the Jack Purcell sneakers, each completely hand-painted in Maison Martin Margiela’s iconic white paint. Covering all canvas, eyelets, laces and soles, they naturally crack and shed their outer coat of paint to reveal the original colors beneath.(source: Press Release)

Converse x Maison Martin Margiela - Fall 2013
Converse x Maison Martin Margiela – Fall 2013

“The Maison has always been obsessed with white; it is used as a layer to give an incognito feeling. A sort of poetry, with the passage of time, the shoe asserts itself,” says Maison Martin Margiela.(source: Press Release)

Converse x Maison Martin Margiela - Fall 2013
Converse x Maison Martin Margiela – Fall 2013

There are four colour ways available: red, black, navy and Margiela-exclusive vintage yellow. This limited edition collection are availalbe at Margiela stores and select Converse retailers. They retail for $200USD/200€.

Converse x Maison Martin Margiela - Fall 2013
Converse x Maison Martin Margiela – Fall 2013

images: converse.com

Changing Up My Sneaker Game with New Balance and Palladium

Changing Up My Sneaker Game with Palladium
Changing Up My Sneaker Game with Palladium

Fall weather means parting with my sandals and covering up with closed toe shoes. My sneaker collection loves fall because I forget about them in the summer and they sit unused. Normally my sneaker game consists of Tretorns and Chucks of various styles. I have a thing for high tops and I have my Vegas Adidas and a great pair of Alexander McQueen for Puma kicking around too. This fall I wanted to change the silhouette up in my shoe game and that came in Palladium and New Balance form.

Changing Up My Sneaker Game with Palladium
Changing Up My Sneaker Game with Palladium

Palladium is a French company started in 1920. Their famous Pampa boot was born in 1947 and the French Legion adapted them for their use. I’ve been receiving their press releases for a few years now but never saw the shoes in person. That changed this summer when I went to a Fall Winter 2013 preview. I really like the shape of the shoes and the different treatments they came in. Palladium loves colour and you can find the perfect colour for you in canvas or leather. Lucky for me, Palladium sent me a pair of Blanc Hi’s in Dream Blue in the summer. With the weather changing, I’ve finally got to put them to good use. I was initially concerned that they might not be comfortable. I always wear orthotics with my Chucks because the sole offers no support. The Blanc Hi’s were super comfortable and I didn’t need to wear my orthotics with them. The colour is perfect right now and I’m afraid of them getting too dirty. I got my eyes on the Blanc Hi in red leather now.

Changing Up My Sneaker Game with New Balance
Changing Up My Sneaker Game with New Balance

I bought these New Balance sneakers because they were on sale at The Hudson’s Bay for $36 (I know, what a deal!). New Balance has always gotten positive buzz from people and I always loved that they liked to add a fashionable colour element to their design. I wanted a camo pair of New Balance but they weren’t on sale so I decided for these purple one. Wearing these New Balance sneakers was an adjustment to me. I never wear sport shoes out in public, only at the gym. Well, I’ve made an exception for New Balance. These are the most comfortable pair of sport shoes I’ve ever owned and when those camo ones go on sale, I’ll be buying them for my collection. If you are into customization, New Balance offers that service online and you can create the pair of your dreams.

Changing Up My Sneaker Game with New Balance
Changing Up My Sneaker Game with New Balance – And yes this post was a perfect reason to use this photo

I haven’t figured out how to pair these sneakers with dresses yet and I don’t think I’ll ever find that sweet spot. Right now I’m keeping it very casual with rolled up denim as you can see in my photos. You can purchase both New Balance and Palladium on their respective online sites. I find New Balance fits small and I needed an 8.5 instead of my usual 8. Palladium fit true to size. However, if you want to try them on you can find New Balance in a ton of stores besides The Hudson’s Bay. Palladium you can find at places like Over the Rainbow and Town Shoes.

i got: Kaiyra Sandals by Nine West

Kaiyra Sandals by Nine West
Kaiyra Sandals by Nine West

It seems we skipped spring and moved right into open toe shoe wearing weather. I honestly thought I wouldn’t wear sandals until closer to June but there I was wearing peep toes at the end of April. A new summer season means new wedge sandals. I was having a particularly bad day and used my Nine West gift card to cheer me up. I love a good wedge sandal and I have more than a few pairs of them kicking around.

I was debating between the Kaiyra and Shaky sandal. The blue and green patterns of the Kaiyra won out. They have a 5″ cork wedge with a 1″ platform. They are high but comfortable, the perfect shoe dimensions. I still might get my hands on the Shaky sandal, they are on sale now. So is the Kaiyra if you are interested.

Hi-Tec Urban Hike

Hi-Tec Urban Hike
Hi-Tec and NKPR teamed up to take media on a Toronto Urban Hike in order to discover the new collection of walking and hiking shoes built with the fashion lover in mind.

Hi-Tec Urban Hike

Each participant was given a choice between a number of different casual but functional shoe styles to try out. I went with the Sierra Lite Original high tops in pink. Thanks Hi-Tec! The Sierra Lite Original is Hi-Tec’s original suede and mesh walking boot. The shoe has the qualities of a hiking boot with a high fashion look.

Hi-Tec Urban Hike

We gathered at the NKPR offices in our best urban hiking street style outfits and put on our shoes. It was interesting to see what styles everyone picked. Pink was very popular with the women but only two of us went for the high top Sierra Lite Originals. I was very impressed that they came with a second set of pink laces and I immediately began to switch out the white pair.

Hi-Tec Urban Hike

They really wanted to show us that you don’t need to break in Hi-Tec shoes in to be comfortable. These are shoes you can take right out of the box and go. After the hour we spend walking around, I’d have to agree. I knew that these Sierra Lite Originals would be perfect for travel and day outings. A few weeks later I went to the Christie Antique Show in Dundas, Ontario and the Sierra Lite Originals were perfect. You do a lot of walking at these antique shows and the shoes were so comfortable. They also were perfect for friend spotting as the bright pink was hard to miss in a crowd. These are going to be of great use when I head out to Whistler this summer. I got some trails to hit up and bears to see. My hardcore, took a long time to break in, heavier, hiking boots will stay at home.

Hi-Tec Urban Hike

We visited a few places on our hike: Graffiti Alley, David’s Tea and the Caplansky’s Food Truck. Along the way superstar Street Style photographer Stefania Yarhi was snapping away.

Hi-Tec Urban Hike

HiTec Urban Hike
I went with an all black outfit because the Sierra’s are just so bright. I paired up a Jeremy Laing top with Gap pants and my favourite vintage Adidas Jacket.

images: courtesy of NKPR, taken by Stefania Yarhi

i want: Aldo Rise x Preen Buito High Heel Sandal

Aldo Rise x Preen Buito High Heel Sandal
Aldo Rise x Preen Buito High Heel Sandal

I’m a big fan of the Aldo Rise collections and I’m a huge fan of Preen. So when these two get together, I get a little giddy. For Spring Summer 2013 Preen and Aldo released three styles of shoes with two different colourways per style. I’ve already picked up the Musilova style which has a pointy toe, asymmetrical vamp and ankle strap. It’s in a bone colour and the leather has some texture to it. I’m also a big fan of the Preen x Aldo Rise Buito Sandal. It wasn’t available when I purchased the Musilova thankfully because I would have walked out the door with both.

All the styles from the Aldo Rise x Preen collection are $155 and can be found online at aldoshoes.com or in select Aldo Stores like Eaton Centre.

images: aldoshoes.com

i want: Spring Summer 2013 Flats by Loeffler Randall

Spring Summer 2013 Flats by Loeffler Randall
Spring Summer 2013 Flats by Loeffler Randall

It’s Loeffler Randall day at I want – I got. I waxed poetic about the Rider Bag and now I’m loving their spring summer 2013 flats. I remember seeing these shoes in the window of Augustina last week. I was most taken with the Odile Sneaker. I love the dark florals in silk and linen with the espadrille details. The Odile Sneaker retails for $225.

The other cute flat from Loeffler Randall is the Luella Mignon Flat Sandal. The colour is spectacular. It’s so intense and saturated. They retail for $325.

Both shoes are available in store and online at augustinaboutiques.com.

images: augustinaboutiques.com
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I want – I got Editorials – Nomad Spring Summer 2013

I want – I got Editorials – Nomad Spring Summer 2013
I want – I got Editorials- Nomad Spring Summer 2013

So, this is the second post in my I want – I got Editorials group. I was blogging for the award-winning MasterCard Stylicity project this season and I organized three editorial shoots for the stores Philip Sparks, Nomad and Spectacle. The shots turned out really well so I’ve decided to showcase some of them here too. This is Nomad.

I want – I got Editorials – Nomad Spring Summer 2013
I want – I got Editorials – Nomad Spring Summer 2013

I really wanted to do the modelling for Nomad myself. However, I felt there were a couple of problems with that. One would be sizing. The other problem was audience. Nomad is a menswear shop and I need to speak to their main customers who are men. So my photographer Dave Yan and I convinced my tall and lean brother to model. He was great!

I want – I got Editorials – Nomad Spring Summer 2013
Towards the end of the shoot we got Curtis to do some classic poses.

Nomad is an amazing shop and their sales associates are some of the incredibly helpful and down to earth. I even saw a couple of things that would fit me in the store. I’m going to have to go shopping.

I want – I got Editorials – Nomad Spring Summer 2013
The RUN DMC pose is a must

Curtis makes everything look amazing. Thanks dear brother for your hard work and thanks to the guys at Nomad for styling everything up. You can check out all the shots from this editorial in the gallery below.

i want: Worksong by Cat Footwear

Worksong by Cat Footwear
Worksong by Cat Footwear

Seems like this summer is going to be good from my brogue collection. I love the Worksong style from Cat Footwear’s Spring Summer 2013 collection. The purple and blue one are my favourite but if you want something more subdued they have you covered.

Worksong by Cat Footwear
Worksong by Cat Footwear

They will be available for purchase for $129.99 starting March 29, 2013 online at catfootwear.com. The Shoe Company, Capezio and Town Shoes also carry Cat Footwear, you can find more locations on the website.

images: courtesy of Cat Footwear

Hermes Spring Summer 2013 – Long Live Sport

Hermès does an incredible job with their product videos. They are extremely well done and hit that sweet spot of cute and whimsical that wins me over every time. The Sporting Life is the theme of the 2013 for Hermès and this set of four videos does a terrific job of conveying the theme. Each video takes items from the spring summer 2013 and incorporates them into sporty vignettes.

Ping Pong features the Toolbox bag and the Rallye 24 Porcelain Collection.

Hermès Spring Summer 2013 - The Sporting Life
Hermès Spring Summer 2013 – The Sporting Life

Rallye 24 Porcelain Collection: The new Hermès porcelain collection designed by Benoît-Pierre Emery and Damian O’Sullivan will be available in Canadian boutiques in May 2013. Rallye 24 has the emblematic anchor chain caught up in and propelled along by a new story on porcelain. It is playfully reworked as a car race track with its straight lines and oval corners, all short-circuiting with their foot to the floor.(source: Hermès PR)

Hermès Spring Summer 2013 - The Sporting Life
Hermès Spring Summer 2013 – The Sporting Life

Toolbox bag: A slight family resemblance… A cousin of the Kelly, with a vanity-case touch, this bag unites the Hermès spirit and the practicality of a surprisingly roomy “treasure chest”. Its swivel clasp, metal plate, snap hooks, lock and clo­chette give it an urban and casual look. Made of soft and supple Swift calfskin, it can be carried by hand or on the shoulder thanks to its removable strap.(source: Hermès PR)

Leap Frog features the Grass Shoe.

Grass Shoe: With its two-tone contrasts and pairing of precious materials, smooth alligator and nubuck, this high sandal adds a touch of sports chic to the spirit of golf.(source: Hermès PR)

Hermès Spring Summer 2013 - The Sporting Life
Hermès Spring Summer 2013 – The Sporting Life

Croquet features their world famous ties and scarves.

Pétanque/No Sport shows off some Hermès cushions.

images: courtesy of Hermès

Run, Don’t Walk to Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection at the Bata Shoe Museum

Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection
Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection

The Roger Vivier exhibit at The Bata Shoe Museum is coming to a close and if you’ve been putting off going you need to stop now. April 7, 2013 is the last day you can check out the work of this master shoemaker. I finally got off my ass and took in the exhibit this week. Roger Vivier’s work is of exceptional beauty and technical design. He invented so many of the classic shoe styles some of which are as popular as ever more than 50 years later.

Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection
Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection

Roger pushed shoe design to new levels with his creative and technical sides. Vivier perfected the modern stiletto in 1954. He never used the term stiletto but aiguille (needle heel). The Choc heel which looks like a concave stiletto came along in 1959. My favourite pair of the exhibit are a Choc heel and pictured above. Roger also debuted the Tibet heel in 1959. It’s shaped like a small inverted pyramid. The Polichinelle heel followed, it has a low hourglass-shaped heel. In 1962 he introduced another heel shape called New Style which was low, curvy and places directly under the heel of the foot. It was after this development that Dior and Vivier parted ways. During his time at Dior he solidified the lowered heel and square toe as staples of shoe design.

Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection
Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection

During his time of independence, Roger created the Choc heel’s design opposite, the Virgule or Comma heel. After Dior, Vivier moved on to design for Yves Saint Laurent. Together they debuted the thigh high boot and the low heeled buckle shoe. These modern designs are inspired by 17th and 18th century men’s shoe designs. The low heeled buckle shoe got the nickname the “pilgrim buckle” shoe. The shoe took on it’s final name, “Belle de jour” after Catherine Denueve wore them in the 1967 namesake movie. Cuissardes or thigh high boot produced by Vivier under YSL caused waves in the 60s with their sex appeal. Vivier reintroduced the Socle Choc or platform sandal in 1967 and they were part of YSL’s spring collection that same year.

Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection
Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection

It was a spiritual visit. The shoes are breathtaking. The details display the genius of Vivier. Many of the displays allow you to get a look at all angles of the shoe which I really appreciated as a details nerd. There are a lot of shoes on display that span Roger Vivier’s career. I felt satiated after the exhibit and was pleased with the selection on display. The official book of the Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection exhibit is amazing and I purchased one for myself. It has all the text on display in the exhibit as well as the shoes and images.

The French Consulate created a video of the exhibit where you can see the layout of the space.

Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection
Roger Vivier: Process to Perfection

So if you call yourself a shoe lover or snob you need to get to the Bata Shoe Museum before April 7, 2013 because this is an exhibit that cannot be missed.

Bata Shoe Museum
327 Bloor St. West
Toronto
images: me, rogervivier.com

i want: Justice Sandal by Abel Munoz

Toronto based shoe designer, Abel Munoz has just launched online shopping at abelmunozshop.com. He has the Spring Summer 2013 collection in the shop now and he offers free shipping to customer in Canada and the US. Torontonians can see Abel’s shoes in person at George C.

Justice Sandal by Abel Munoz
Justice Sandal by Abel Munoz

I’m pretty fond of these strappy plum suede sandals called Justice. They would be perfect day to night shoe.  I’d wear these to the office all summer. Everyone is gotten used to my crazy footwear. Abel has his shoes produced in Italy and they are leather lined and soled. The heel on these are 3.75 inches. The Justice sandal retails for $575.00.

image: abelmunozshop.com

i got: Nicholas Kirkwood x Erdem Ankle Boots

Sneaky emails and reminder tweets enter my social space once the major discounts start hitting The Room at the Hudson’s Bay. It’s a good time to be hunting for bargains. It’s during these sales periods that I get strategic about things. It’s about desirability of the brand and price. During this magical time that ownership of the brands I lust for becomes attainable. The Room blessed me with an amazing Christopher Kane skirt.

The Room has a great selection of shoes and the pickings are getting pretty slim by the time it’s 60% off plus an extra 40%. This shoe shopping experience was extra fun because I coerced my friend, Natalie into coming. There were a few choices of from my watch list of designers: Kirkwood, Sanderson, Olympia, Alaia, Atwood, Margiela. I tried on a few and stared wistfully at some wishing I had the same size feet as Stefania from Textstyles.ca.

Nicholas Kirkwood x Erdem Ankle Boots
Nicholas Kirkwood x Erdem Ankle Boots

I wandered the racks several times with a pair of pretty loud Erdem x Nicholas Kirkwood ankle boots. They were a thick tweed and had a lot of pink but the fantastic square lucite heel was something you don’t want to walk away from. The tweed pattern was not my style so I decided to keep looking. However, I had Kirkwood x Erdem on the brain and I searched out every pair and every style on those six racks. I found a pair of the ankle boot in a more subdued navy blue. The material was crepe cotton instead of tweed and I liked it better. “There’s a Plan B don’t worry”, I thought to myself as trying them on in case of disappointment. Thankfully, I didn’t need Plan B and the pair of Nicholas Kirkwood for Erdem Tweedprint crepe cotton ankle boots came home with me.

It’s been a long time since I’ve felt smug about a shoe purchase. I’m pleased that I now have some Kirkwood in my closet and some Erdem I can wear (I have a beautiful silk Erdem dress that’s too small for me at this time). As you can imagine, they get some stares at the office.

Shoe Specifications:
Lucite heel, 4½” (115mm)
Hidden platform, 1″ (25mm)
Compares to a 3½” heel (90mm)
Made in Italy

images: lyst.com