As Target continues their “designs for all” campaign, the public continues to reap the benefits.  A fairly sizeable collection designed by luxury line Botkier has been released to Target stores US-wide, and you will be impressed with the results.

The only disappointment is the use of PVC versus actual leather.  It makes sense to keep costs down on a line like this; but even discount retailers manufacture goods out of leather nowadays and can still keep the customer within their spending limits.

I’m booking it down to the States to check these out in person and see if they look as good in person as they do online.  Photos of the collection are below.

View the entire collection on Target.com

Botkier for Target hobos and totes, $49.99 each

The magenta satchel is very close to the $625 original!

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Botkier for Target clutches, $19.99 each

The Target collection clutches are more cleverly designed than the originals …now if only they were made with leather!

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Botkier for Target satchels, $39.99 each

The satchels closely resemble their $595 cousins as well; just minus the lambskin.

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Botkier for Target shoulder bags, $29.99 each

Local Vancouver shoe purveyor John Fluevog has rewarded us with a little Blind Faith and added chains.

It has been named the “Helen”; and I’m really not sure if that is supposed to be a cheeky (and possibly a little tasteless) reference to Keller, but regardless we’re left with a glorious take on the classic slingback pump.

If only these came in different colors! Lilac is hot right now…that could be the perfect shade to balance the grit of the chain.

Blind Faiths | Helen, $289 CA

Thankfully, glove designs are definitely not reserved this season.  In place of staples such as the black or brown mid length leather glove are colors, cuts and various shapes to tailor every look you wear them with a little bit differently.

The first thing I thought of when I saw those yellow Gaultier opera gloves, I instantly thought of United Colors of Benetton’s suede mustard yellow boots…they would go magically together!

As always, gloves can be the life of your look or a blended feature.  As always, the visual impact greatly depends on the length, cut and color of your hand protection.

As more retailers receive fall stock I’m sure we’ll see more of a highstreet version of the pieces pictured.  Keep a close eye on your local Winners; they were a gold mine last glove season.

From left to right: Chado Ralph Rucci (the first two), Lanvin, Louis Vuitton, Jean Paul Gaultier

I wonder who will be the first to clone out Chanel’s Fall 2008 stockings.

My money is on Topshop, but I’ve got hopes for a more localized buying oppourtunity that does not require me to pick a package up in the US (no thanks!)

These would look amazing in contrasting block colors; maybe a purple/yellow and yellow/blue combination…

Hopefully American Apparel picks up the hint and makes their own version like they did with Prada’s footless socks (AA version here).

Carolina Herrera has outdone herself.  Usually I am never very hyped over her designs (as I find they’re more suited to the 30-something lady at a fancy luncheon) but things changed when I saw her Fall 2008 runway review.

This is the best hybrid of a modern fedora and the traditional Bavarian hat I have ever seen!  Not only are they the perfect shape and size; but the colors and patterns of the fabric only add to the whole visual.  That, and of course the feather… I love it all.

I took a quick scan over Neiman Marcus’ site, and nothing close is up for sale yet, but I’m going to keep a close watch on this one.  These are pieces (for once) I’m willing to spend silly money on!

If you can’t get into mustard or green clothing ( other Fall ’08 color trends), then one trend compromise is the newly popular chartreuse.  This is as close as you Summer lovers will get to your blinding neons this summer as you can get! Rejoice!

Chartreuse is a more difficult color to match since it’s a mix of both green and yellow without looking too dull; but certain jewel tones would work beautifully.  Can you imagine the contrasting you would get amethyst pieces? Stunning!

From the left: Betsey Johnson, La Perla, Nicole Miller, Zac Posen

Mustard is one of the hottest shades to hit the runways, and is one of the easiest colors to integrate into a darker Fall wardrobe.

Mustard is being used for all aspects of the clothing palette; from gloves to socks to layering basics.  For a more subtle dash of color, work in mustard socks or tights while layering.  If you’re going for a more intense visual, pick something with more coverage like a block color dress or shorts.

To keep an outfit flowing and ensure the colors mash together well, pair complimentary tones like gold or wear an accessory (such as the Lacoste tie below) that have a bit of color in them to blend the look together.

From left to right: Balenciaga, Betsey Johnson, Jean Paul Gaultier, Lacoste

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Accessories, anyone?

Give out a knockout visual with even the most demure pairings with mustard accessories.  What could be a classic (and perhaps too matronly) dress is instantly lifted and pops with bright pumps, boots, gloves or hat.

This is the more cost-efficient way to amp up your wardrobe with a season’s worth of staying power.  Try a traditional boxy pea coat from a thrifting adventure, plum tights and a black flapper-esque hat.  That is one combination which offers the option of being workable with pieces you already own since mustard is so complimentary to most other shades.

From left to right: Y & Kei, Armand Basi, Roksanda Ilincic, Jenni Kanye

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What the high street has to offer…

Topshop:

From left to right: Zip Back Jumper; £32.00, Opaque Tights; £4, Suede Bow Clutch; £30; Foldover Purse; £15

Urban Outfitters:

From left to right: Obey Rider Jacket; $120, Twin Pocket Clutch; $9.99 (sale); Neon Gradient Sunglasses; $14

American Apparel:

From left to right: Mélange Funnel Neck Dress; $40, Jersey Skirt; $23, Nylon High Wasted Legging; $46, Vinyl Laptop bag; $37

Fluevog:

Tootie; $99, Nicolette; $189, Ashbury; $299

Aldo:

From left to right: Sandee Pump; $70, Flojohn Pump; $100; Garlanda Pump; $70 (sale)

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I would highly recommend scouting out your local thrift shops and consignment boutiqes.  Not only will you save money and find unique items; you’re also recycling clothing and saving the good ‘ol environment as well.

Though I grew up in the 90s, I managed to escape the then-accursed bowl cut (thank you, mom).

Now, I’m actually considering the thought of bringing back the 90s bowl; what I’ve been affectionately calling the “euro bowl” since I’ve seen the crop popping in and out of various style blogs from across the pond.

In this particular case, the bowl was prominently featured on the Yves St. Laurent Fall 2008 ready to wear runway show (photo below).

If you’re gunning for a look that’s less helmet-intense than what YSL gave us, a textured bowl would give you the option of the less sleek, less robo-tastic look (that, and leave your designer fetish chokers at home!)

I wonder if this cut will start popping up in North America…we’ll probably have to wait at least a year to find out.

(Image via style.com)

Ok, so here we have the side button cardigan from Gsus’ Fall 2008 collection.  This both intrigues and baffles me.

I have no doubts that this can be pulled off by a creative individual (hopefully with better styling instincts than the one who threw the model’s outfit together), but it would be tough to work it without going all Two-Face on everyone.

This would probably look pretty awesome with some sharp man shorts and oxfords.

Woe to the local Heaven’s Playground that closed down late last year! I still mourn for you.

For those who have local stockists that supply Gsus and are more of the daring type; the cardie goes by “Cactus”.

What do you think of it? Would you buy?

The print of the Scots and favoured look of lumberjacks has resurfaced once again, and in a vast selection of colors and piece variations…let’s discuss why this Fall you’ll be mad for plaid.

It’s not all about the skirt. When tartan was previously allotted to only the pleated stereotypical school girl skirt, you can find various brands using the pattern in a range of piece variations.  The three pieces below are all found at Topshop.  You can work as little (with the waistcoat or the skirt) or as much (concerning the trench) tartan as you feel comfortable with in your daily routine.

Trench, £80.00; Bow Waistcoat, £35; Asymmetric Skirt, £35

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You can be as subtle as you want to be; there’s no obligation to be outrageous! As D&G and  House of Holland’s Fall 2008 runway show outlined, there are veriying degrees to which one can wear tartan.  One can reduce or increase the public “bam” factor dramatically by reducing the amount of the pattern you wear, in what color and what style you chose to put on.

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Your tartan dosen’t have to stand alone. As we see on the Just Cavalli runway, multi-tartan layering can be pulled off, and it’s not off limits to clash patterns (though I would highly recommend you avoiding animal print and tartan at all costs!) This basically gives you free lisence to be creative and let your freak flag fly…but don’t get too freaky.

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Very little tartan has a mass positive visual effect. As you can see from these skinny suspenders by Urban Outfitters, you can add the smallest amount to a well coordinated outfit and still make a splash.

Skinny Suspenders by Urban Outfitters, $24

Ever since the first version of the Wayfarer in the 50s, they have exploded onto the sub-culture and the pop culture scene.

Though mainsteam popularity usually has more of a negative effect on a trend than positive, the trend is reversed with the new additions into the Wayfarer family.

My favourites are the multi colored pair below; with the aqua blue and cream on the arm…they kind of remind me of the old school nerdy 50s look.  As with all new Ray-Ban Wayfarers, these babies will put you out approximatley $160 per pair.

Currently they only offer these multi color styles on the newer (and smaller) Wayfarer design; but I have my fingers crossed they will extend these to the larger original Wayfarer lens design.  Now if only I could afford them all…

Right now, there is a super clearance going on at all Superstore locations on Joe Fresh clothing (up to 70% off).

All three belts (including two colored patent versions and one rope and patent belt) were purchased for 0.99 each!

The best thing about the colored belts is that they have no perforations, so the sizes are fully customizable with no ugly little dots to take away from the look of your belt.

You can’t even find belts at Value Village for this price, never mind new stock… I would suggest you take a peek at your local Superstore and have a look-see at the stock before it depletes.

Price paid: $8

Thrift store: Value Village

As soon as I tried this on, I realized that it looks like a longer verson of the Proenza Shouler pre-fall coats from their earlier runway show.

Can you imagine how fantastic this would look with some mustard tights and these cutout heels?

I plan on getting the length professionally hemmed to be more around the mid-thigh length. Usually a local tailor can do the job and you won’t even know it looked any different before, and for a fairly reasonable price.

Topman has teamed up with Kasper Harup-Hansen to design Topman Lens‘ newest men’s collection.

The photos below show a peek of the designs that will be sold in the Oxford high street store in London in September, with the New York location receiving them in October.

I like the essence of the simplistic yet effective layering, which will suit even the most rushed/style confused chap to the organized man-fashionista.

On a side note…check out the electric blue suits on the bottom right with the plaid button up shirt and waistcoat! It’s so 80s! Love it, love it, love it.

The fashion scene has lacked a great street wear presence that fully embraces discussions on individual looks, as well as allowing people to cast opinions certain looks on an individual scale; but no longer!

Lookbook provides you with a place to upload photos, vote (“hype”) your favorite looks and discuss why they are on your awesome list. There is also a nifty feature to tag the items you’re wearing and associate a brand, store and price to them for others’ shopping tips and whatnot.

I’ve sadly neglected my account of late (I promise I’ll be more attentive from now on!), but you should really take a peek yourself. Sign up for a Lookbook account!

Since neons are out for Fall and you can’t possibly bring yourself to bear resemblance to the shade of an elephant; stock up on jewel tones and metallics for the upcoming Fall season.

Item names/links are listed from the left item to the right.

Amethyst

Nylon Figure Skater Dress, American Apparel, $55

Lady Dress, French Connection, £25.00 (sale)

Stretch Bull Denim Slim Skirt, American Apparel, $62

Penny Premium Cone Heel, Topshop (UK), £70.00

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Emerald

Green Shiny Puff Coat, United Colors of Benetton

Mayhem Coat, French Connection, £45.00 (sale)

Mono Coat, French Connection, £45.00 (sale)

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Topaz

Jeffrey Cambell Cutout Heel, Urban Outfitters, $88

Asymmetric Tartan Skirt, Topshop, £35.00

Pleat Front Jersey Dress, Topshop, £35.00

Jackson 3 Strap Shoe, Topshop, £30.00 (sale)

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Lapis

Leno Dress, French Connection, £30.00 (sale)

Plain Tier Mini Skirt, Topshop, £28.00

Lux High Plains Drifter Dress, Urban Outfitters, $29 (sale)

Yes, cardigans. These button-down sweaters are no longer exclusively granny wear or for granny-esque hipsters. Cardigans can be a key layering asset for your Fall wardrobe if you understand how to work them in properly.

Really, choosing pieces in a variety of visually popping colors (to prevent the centurion look), deciding how you want them to drape on your body and what you put under and over them are the three key things to observe when dressing.

I’ve found five splendid cardies that would almost certainly be an asset for for wardrobe.

Consider this Cardigan 101.

BDG High Low Hem Cardigan, $54

Where to find it: Urban Outfitters

Why you need it: A pale tangerine will make any otherwise dark fall ensemble grab everyone’s eyes. Whether this cardie is under a blazer or over a layering shirt; it’s a sure win for the color alone.

How to wear it: Try pairing a bright piece like this with a cropped jacket to show off the sleeves. If you’re not into looking like a perpetual student, avoid the standard oxford button up top (especially in white) and trade for something with ruffles or a v-neck; depending on the weather. It’s a tricky look to pull off, but this cardigan worn with complimenting jewel tone tights (I would suggest a purple) would look magnificent!

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Button-Top Cashmere Cardigan, $190

Where to find it: Banana Republic

Why you need it: For a more subtle splash of color, this cardie is just the one to take home. I mean, really…who can argue with dark royal blue cashmere? Besides the material, the button effect on the sleeves gives the piece more stand alone wear ability than the average cardie.

How to wear it: Taking into consideration the detail on the sleeve, I would save this piece for warmer weather and pair it with a colored blouse as the model is shown above. If it is colder, put on a coat with width in the arms so you don’t have a bubble where the buttons are located. The color would go well with nearly anything denim, so try it with a pair of wide leg jeans or shorts if the weather allows.

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Knitted Pointelle Cardigan, £30.00

Where to find it: Topshop (UK)

Why you need it: A lacy white snippet of fabric can break up an otherwise rough and tumble outfit of harsh lines and dark shades. Not only that, but the sleeve length and plunging v-neck will allow wear ability all year long.

How to wear it: If you’re in the game of avoiding chills, layer a short or three sleeve (and well fitting) button up top with a large bow-tie in the front. This would be a perfectly modest yet still stylish option for office wear.

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Striped Roby Cardigan, $42 (sale)

Where to find it: Tommy Hilfiger

Why you need it: Everyone needs a slouchy boy cardigan in their clothing arsenal. Stripes are a classic look that will go with most anything and also carry you through the seasons without looking terrible aged. That, and the crest is simply a nice touch!

How to wear it: Try this one with a pair of seersucker shorts, colored tights or socks, a light solid sweater underneath and a long scarf. Throw some ankle boots into the mix, and you’ve got a win.

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Knitted Ribbed Cardi, £32.00

Where to find it: Topshop (UK)

Why you need it: Since your splash of color won’t always be your cardigan, one must have the almost-granny gray piece in your collection. It will blend in, but pieces like this aren’t meant to be the grand visual event anyhow.

How to wear it: Button this up over a more vibrant shirt and pea coat and a pleated gray skirt. Throw in some complimentary colored over the knee socks for a full fall look.

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BDG Double Stripe Cardigan, $48

Where to find it: Urban Outfitters

Why you need it: This shade of green is hard to find in a well fitting sweater, never mind a cardi. This particular piece has a sporty feel from the double stripe, yet isn’t overpoweringly so.

How to wear it: Pair this with a pair of black raw denim skinnies and brown ankle boots. Layer with a jewel tone shirt under the cardigan and finish with a brown belt.

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Remember, you don’t need to pay attention to sizing of cardigans as much as you would think. Over sized cardies are just as fashionable when paired well with the rest of your ensemble. All you must think about is how you want things to look and plan accordingly.

There aren’t many dresses I’ve come across that you can successfully cross over from day to night wear quite easily in, but French Connection has up with a solid dress.

The original $300 CA price tag was a bit unnerving, but thanks to Winners, I walked away with this beauty for the glorious price of $25 CA plus tax (and that wasn’t even a sale, people).

I like the lighter version of this dress over the dark for a number of reasons; the lighter is better suited for funky daytime wear, has no fuchsia involved, and let’s face it: light sequins are much less tranny-like.

I think this would look intense with a dark leather jacket, ankle boots and [just maybe] a pillbox hat; we’ll see.

It’s nearly impossible to find a choice casual shoe that isn’t a pair of Chuck Taylors; but this weekend I found them. These leather buckle high tops are made by Nine West, and they were found at the Robson & Granville location for $59.

I’m planning to bust these out with my £10 mod dress from the Oxford Street H&M and some killer color tights. Now to wait for the weekend…

We all need visual refreshes every now and again, and it’s demiCouture’s time to get a makeover.

So I’m gumming my way through editing CSS to make things look a bit more up to par.  If things look a little bonkers, off center or just plain out of place…please bear with me.  I’m fixing/learning as fast as I can!

*Victoria