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.
 

The Shoe Addicts Diary: Platforms

Snick: The Clog Alternative
by Anjelica of Mode Junkie

So what does a shoe addict in Germany do when her Jeffrey Campbell Snick Studs finally arrive from Lori's Shoes? SHE SHOUTS LIKE MAD. So mad the boyfriend thinks something happened to our son. Unfortunately he sometimes over-reacts like that. ;)

Seriously, how sick are these platform sandals? As I unpacked the shoes (read: destroying the box and ripping off the tape which holds the box together like there's no tomorrow), I immediately pictured outfits that would go with these babies. That was a bit hard since the shoes are pretty much goes-well-with-everything kinda shoes. But the thought of my leather shorts with my military parka and THESE shoes? I just pictured the most perfect fall outfit. 

Maybe I'd throw on some tights if it gets a bit chilly or a pair of ruffled, white socks (I love socks with sandals and am totally in to this trend; please don't hate me!).

I can't stop wearing my Snicks with my dresses, my skirts, my chinos! As I said, they go well with everything. The olive suede is even a perfect match to my taupe colored nails! (Yes, I plan the colors of my fingernails according to what type of shoes I am wearing!)

In my opinion, the Jeffrey Campbell Snick Stud is the best alternative for people who hate clogs (not me of course; I am a shoe addict, remember). They are comfortable and they don't look too cloggy (if there were such a word). Know what I mean? I LOVE these shoes and since Jeffrey Campbell is not available in Germany these shoes will definitely be cherished and positioned top shelf in the new shoe closet.

Shoe Addicts Report: Clogs

Clogs are here to stay!
by Kitty of Geisha Pearl Vintage

It’s funny how a new pair of shoes makes me weak at the knees. Like catching the eye of the dreamiest guy in the room ... and him smiling back. Well, these new clogs were no exception.

I walked into my apartment building this week to see a little note taped to my
mailbox: I had a package waiting for me. I knew exactly what it was – my new Gee WaWa Shimmer clogs in Mink!

Once safely inside my apartment, I ripped open the parcel to reveal a beautiful pair of chunky-heel clogs. My new eye candy! I stared in awe at their exquisite craftsmanship. The sheer weight of them was impressive. I slipped my feet into the suede heels. They fit me like a glove, perfectly wrapping around my foot. Although initially they felt heavy, they proved to be sturdy and lightweight – effortless to walk in.

Maxing out at a staggering five feet tall, heels are my best friend. I wear them to the grocery store, the office – pretty much everywhere. Some shoes I cannot wear all day, but already these have become my go‐to heels. The hidden platform under the toes gives me the added height without the usual painful side effects. They are beyond comfortable and the perfect addition to my fall wardrobe!

And the price? Practically a steal for the impeccable quality and stunning
appearance of these clogs! I love the boho‐inspired fringe tops, brass nailheads, and charming turned-up toe. I haven’t seen a clog like this on the market.

(This is kind of silly, but what really sold me on these shoes were the bottoms. They have an adorable imprint of two little Chihuahuas! I have a little chocolate brown Chihuahua named Dixie, so it was an instant sale. I know, ridiculous, right?!)
 

Styling these beauties…

My favorite way to wear clogs is with socks! From a lacy, white pair of ankle socks to cable knit thigh‐highs, they are the perfect accompaniment to a chunky-heel clog.

I paired mine with tall, heather‐gray, knit socks, a cream Forever21 shirt dress covered in sheer ruffles and a vintage tuxedo jacket with satin lapels from my online vintage store, Geisha Pearl Vintage.

For a more casual ensemble slip into a pair of classic, tapered, navy trousers and a striped, cotton tee. Or try a floral playsuit and wrap yourself in a thick chunky knit sweater for the chill fall weather.

Clogs are here to stay and I love it!