UGG Maylin furry foldover

UGG Maylin Foldover Furry Boots in chestnut (Canada)
- available in black and brown

 

 

fashionable functional winter boots

… for every woman!

This is my first winter on the East Coast in three years, I’m thankful that it’s been mild enough that I’ve been able to get away with my J.Crew Sperry Shearwater boots, original navy Hunters (with cream fleece socks), my Stuart Weitman leopard rain boots and my black Gucci (with leopard fleece socks) rain boots. But a big snow storm will hit… so topping my “to-buy” list is a pair of winter boots. Above are my finalists, I’ll likely end up getting a furry-shearling pair, and a classic black go-to. I’d also love a white pair like the Pajar‘s or Sorels to throw into the rotation. Wish-list!

Sorel “Tofino” (Canada) – these are all over the magazines and style segments as the “it” boots of the season. Red is fresh and unexpected, but this style is also great in brown, grey, and black. They fit small, in the US they come in half sizes – in Canada go down half a size to the next whole size.

Sperry “Plover” – these work in rain or snow, keeping you warm and dry. I love the tie and fur!

Hunter “Adley” – these come in black, dark olive and brown. I can’t get enough shearling. Hunters only come in half sizes and they fit big, if you’re a half size go down to the next whole size.

GEOX’s “Dina Stilvali” – these quilted patent boots are warm and cozy with a subtle shiny splash. They only come in whole sizes, they fit small, go down half a size to the next whole size.

Hunter “Regent Savoy” - my favorite boot this year, but I’ll warn you – the shaft is snug (15.5 inch circumference). Snugger than the Hunter original; 16 inch – (if you have a wider calf try the Hunter Huntress for an extra 0.5″, it’s 16.5 inches). The Regent also comes in Montpelier leopard.

Pikolinos – Lisboa 767-8441 – these are tall, warm, waterproof and a complement to any outfit.

UGG Belcloud (Canada) – great in black, brown, or Cognac – you can wear these like a riding boot.

Pajar “Grip Boot” (Canada) – so après ski, but they also work in the city. I love white, red, grey, black, animal (brown and black) and plaid… the black Gianna, Women’s Wolseley, and Red Wood.

Sorel’s 6138640 – exclusive to Browns in Canada, these zip-up boots are ready to throw on and go!

 

Sperry Topsider Plover

Sperry Topsider Plover Boots

GIFT GUIDE… for him

“If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart.”

< $25 – Fur Trapper Hat: help him stay snow-shoveling-ready (and warm!) with a fur trapper hat.

< $50 – Roots Ipad II Sleeve – this iPad case offers padding and a bright kelly green interior.

< $75 – UGG slippers – these slip on scuff slippers are a pillow for his (and your!) feet.

< $100 – HUDSON’S BAY COMPANY COLLECTION flask with blanket sleeve: thanks to Mad Men, flasks have made a comeback. The Bay’s signature print flask is a great conversation piece.

< $125 – UGG Shearling Glove: comes in brown, camel and black leather – a cozy classic.

< $200 – A plaid scarf: not too-fashion-forward, but a soft statement that keeps him looking pulled together. This look works for the office and weekends.

< $300 – Red Wing® for J.Crew Wabasha boots: help him fight rain and snow in style.

< $400 – Barbour® Beaufort jacket: every man needs a Barbour jacket, it’s a classic staple.

< $500 – Alden® for J.Crew suede longwing bluchers: if he doesn’t know what shoes to wear with jeans on casual Friday or nights out, these are them! They also work with dress pants and a suit. They aren’t to be missed in black or dark brown leather either (a shoe in for a more conservative dresser – for the daring, check out the high tops).

fall flat black boot



If you’re looking for a new fall boot, consider a flat black leather to (or above) the knee style. My closest girlfriend and client, and I just got her the J.CREW Booker Boots in black (NB: the brown that looks great online, but it’s a bit orange in person). Without any hardware, they are totally chic and can be worn day and night. With two young kids, function is key. But for heel-die-hards, petite gals and fall 2011 ’70s trend lovers the Booker boots also come with a “mid-heel“. I haven’t bought myself a new pair yet, but I’m currently coveting Loeffler Randall’s Riley flat zip boot. I love an exposed gold zipper up the back. It pops against black, the perfect classic touch. Another client of mine wanted more value than splurge, she’s excitingly sporting ZARA’s Boot With Zipped Cap-Toe.

Wherever your life takes you, these boots were made for walking…

wonderFALL must-haves

Fall has always been my favorite fashion season. And now that I’m back living on the East Coast, I’m excited to reunite with the seasons (OK, maybe not winter…). After two-plus-years in LA, I’ve quickly become fair-weathered and I’m cold whenever I’m not in direct sunlight and extreme heat. There will be many scarves, hats, and jackets in my future. Let the layering begin as we fall into fall.

10 – a weekend getaway vest - I’m on the hunt for the perfect black vest (ideally hooded, and maybe leather). Until I find it, I’m coveting this shiny patent-esque crimson style by J.CREW. Great over black, white, or gray. Works well to-and-from the gym; brunch; in the city or country.

9 – black waxed skinny jeans – I don’t hide my love for black skinnis, I own many pairs. Two of which are wax coated (J Brand) – the perfection way to achieve the style of black leather pants without the discomfort, or price! They wear well with flats during the day, and dress up perfectly at night with heels. Just throw on a simple top, sweater, blazer or blouse and you’re instantly chic.

8 – mesh top – I bought this Theory silver mesh sweater in LA and I constantly get complements. Depending on your height (I have a long torso) – it may be cropped – like it is on me… I wear two Theory white cotton tanks layered underneath (I wear two because I hate seeing the button from your jeans through the cotton – the added thickness also provides flattering snugging benefits). I love it against my crimson Rag & Bones. Bright denim is still big this fall, but you can also opt for black or darker hues like J Brand’s cherry skinny cords. Smaller holes work well too.

7 – suede wedge boots / booties - fashion meets function with a wedge heel. Petite women can get the extra height they covet, without the back and foot pain. And the rest of us can enjoy some subtle lift with an all-day-heel. I love myself some black, brown, and grey suede boots and booties.

6 – polka dot - anything! Polka dot is to fall 2011, what stripes were to spring and summer. The same could be said for stars… but I prefer a more classic print. So mix some dots into your tops, scarves, skirts, hosiery, and more. Big or small circles are everywhere. Smaller is typically more flattering, just be careful the print is clear and you aren’t channeling the chicken pox.

5 – bright outerwear - Just add water. Seriously, it’s that easy! With a bright coat, you’ve got instant color-blocking – and instant chic. Guaranteed to brighten up even the dreariest of fall / winter days… The gold metal hardware and double breasted style can’t get any better. I love “Heather Camel”, “Heather Majestic Purple”, and “Vibrant Flame” all equally. J’adore.

4 – chunky knits – Looking out the window is enough to make me cold these days. I crave all-things warm and cozy – aka, chunky knits! The chunkier, the better. Stella McCartney can do no wrong in my opinion, and while her pieces are clearly an $investment$, I can picture this scarf and I being very happy together for eternity. Or at least until spring.

3 – tweed and tartan – textures are big this season. Think tweed, tartan, hounds-tooth, pine-stripe – very British – very prep-school. The looser oversized boyfriend fits of recent years are gone, and we’re back to fitted shrunken blazers and coats (because a waist is a terrible thing to waste). Classic blackwatch (green and navy plaid) is a safe bet. The more daring may try technicolor or mustard (because I’ve never met a condiment I didn’t like).

2 – dark cords – skinny or wide-leg - the ’70s drives the wide-legged pants we’re seeing everywhere. The great news is you can dress for your body type. Skinnies, and wide-legged pants are in – pick your pleasure! Just remember, all pants are more flattering when worn with heels.

1 –bright statement pumps - a shocking suede pump lights up your outfit (and hopefully your life). Kelly Ripa shows us how to wear blue suede shoes with all-black. You can also color block your way into an opposing hued pant, top, coat, dress, skirt… most successful blocks involve two or three (MAX) colors. As the temperature drops; select darker, richer, and jewel-tones colors.

 

J.CREW MacAlister wedge boots

J.CREW MacAlister wedge boots – amazing in EVERY color!

 

Nahla Aubry wearing Minnetonka Moccosins

Halle Berry’s daughter Nahla Aubry’s wearing Toddler Girls Minnetonka Fringe boots – j’adorable!

buckled biker boots

Jen wears Baker motorcycle boots, Kate dons Jimmy Choo, and Angelina buckles her Prada.

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Photos: Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson, Angelina Jolie: Splash News

I equally love motorcycle (“moto”) and riding boots for their fashion and function. A tall boot is just what the East Coast fall and winter call for and even in warmer cities like LA these boots play their part. Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson and Angelina Jolie share affection for black buckled motos, each adding touches of personal style. Add jeans, a coat, sunglasses, and you’re golden.

Beautify-your-biker-boots… just add buckles.

Blake’s perfect-poncho-style

Blake Lively mastered perfect NYC poncho-style while shopping for a Christmas tree last month.

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Photo: Blake Lively: PeopleStyleWatch.com

I’m feeling ponchos right now. And when they’re worn properly, I’m not afraid to admit it…

Blake captured perfect-poncho-style while picking out her Christmas tree in New York City last month. The black leggings tucked into KILLER distressed brown motorcycle boots bring her loosely draped Aztec wool 12th. by Cynthia Vincent “blanket sweater” to a 10!! Nothing but net…

Blake’s blanket is so popular it’s only in Petite online, thankfully many other designers are getting their not-so Joseph-technicolor dream coats on – from $$$lux investments to $everyday value.

The key to mastering this look is to let your poncho be the focus. Don’t mix in any other prints, bright colors or statements. Keep your bottoms fitted (skinny jeans or leggings) and dark in hue. And don’t scarf yourself – the material in your cape is all your neck needs. Blake’s blanket hangs loosely but it isn’t over-sized.  If you opt for something with more material, belt it at the waist to maintain your shape. A successful poncho displays a relaxed bohemian style, so keep it SIMPLE.

While you’re searching for the perfect-poncho, consider Blake’s blanket for creative inspiration.