Buckled styles are a mainstay in the boot world, and with the nine showcased below there will be no way to deny it.  Through heels, wedges and flats we have a lovely collection of fancy footwear ready for stomping through winter wet.

We will start out with two lovelies from Zara; the wool ankle boot and the contrast buckled wrap bootie.  Both are beautifully priced, made with real leathers and can be worn in so many different ways.  Fluevog’s Lancaster boots are an excellent buy, and much lesser priced than the average Fluevog boot at $289.  The remainders are Miu Miu’s tall strap and buckle, Dr Marten’s Savannahs and Chloé’s flats.

The rest of the company are the height enhancers; our friendly heel and buckle crew.  demiCouture loves include the multi multi buckle Jeffrey Campbell One O One, Burberry Prorsum shearling lined aviators and the walking friendly Jeffrey Campbell Sinki.

Blanche Macdonald’s latest fashion design program grads recently took the stage at The Westin Bayshore, providing quite a curious presentation for those in attendance.  The runway show entailed 45 of Blanche’s grads showing two looks for each grad an extensive display of the school’s current batch of talent.

It became quite clear within the first fifteen minutes of the show that the designs were highly costume design based.  Much of the designs evoked a feeling of sci-fi films, takes on traditional ethnic attire [1] [2] , oddly cropped active wear and some genuinely confusing styling choices.  Pieces were heavily color blocked, many with thick piping and fused with a highly theatrical look.

What was rather perplexing was  what appeared to be a heavy use of synthetics for the graduate’s final presentation garments.  Due to low number of required looks each grad was required (two completed outfits); the majority of the students using what appeared to be low cost fabrics.  Many chose to use [what appeared to be] polyesters and other similar materials; in person the lack of textile quality was clear.

Overall, the entire collection of grads appeared to be going for a very theatrical presentation, though the designs appeared to be design directed towards costuming.  There were times when outfits evoked video game characters (particularly Final Fantasy), raver and sci-fi inspired uniforming,  hooded Star Wars heroines, and even an asymmetric sleeve inspired by elephantiasis.  One could deduce the basis of the inspiration for these looks, and while there was clearly care within the garment construction, the design execution and finishing was where weakness lied.

Construction detailing was also a suffering point with some of the grads’ work; you could clearly see bulging waist corsets [1] [2], uneven and  sagging tailoring of garment busts [1] [2] [3], unflattering folds over a model’s thighs, a dress that give an illusion of a paunch, while others displayed overall lack of tailoring which resulted in an uncomplimentary silhouette.

I do wish that I had been able to view Blanche’s past presentations to identify if this was simply a less impressive collection of students, though unfortunately that reference point was not possible.  While the roster of past successful grads is clear (most notably Tenille Magnusson, designer of Aritzia’s Wilfred range, Dace Moore of Dace Clothing and Lisa Malcic, designer of the Barneys stocked children’s range Beba Bean), I did not see work presented from this runway collection that foreshadowed other such accomplishments.

Hey vintage lovers, it’s about that time again.. The Chosen Ones’ second sale is about to hit The Waldorf Hotel!

We’ve got some familiar vendors and new names; favorites like F As In Frank, Stephi Chin-Salvo, Kerry Weinrauch and Erin Templeton are all back for another round.  Robson’s favorite underground vintage treasure trove True Value is taking part this go around, as is Dandi Wind (local musician with excellent stage costumes).  There are loads more; check out the flyer for a full list of vendors.

I’ll be doing a preview video again, so stay tuned the night before for my picks and pans!

WHEN: Saturday, December 18 from 11AM – 6PM (get there early!)
WHERE: The Waldorf Hotel [Googlemap]

Holy shazbot Batman, this is HUGE!! I’m very pleased to announce that demiCouture is giving away a pair of FASTER MARK FAST classic knit leggings and long gloves!!! Aside from being some of the most coveted statement items no matter what season you’re in, these are deadly pieces you need to have in your collection.

If you need a lowdown on Mark Fast, he’s one of the fastest rising stars in the London fashion scene though he’s actually a Canadian [Winnipeg] expat.  Fast has created luxury basics collections for Topshop, is loved by Anna Wintour and Faster (his official diffusion range) is one of the most coveted ranges available.

Check out the ASOS Marketplace stock for the Faster range and fan Mark Fast on Facebook – they’re getting revved up to start an amazing 2011.

TO ENTER: Tell us in a comment why you want to get FASTER with MARK FAST!! One entry only please (trust me, I’ll find out if you’re attempting to pull a fast one)

All entries must be submitted for moderation by January 2nd [update], 2010 at 11:59PM.  No later, kiddies! A random draw of entrants will determine the winner, and they will be contacted via email so make sure to comment with one you actually use.

May I suggest becoming a fan of demiCouture on Facebook, and following @demiCouture on Twitter – it’s not necessary to win, but you’ll hear loads of news there first, just like the designer featured within this contest.. it was said first on the FB page!

Vancouver doesn’t have a tonne of rocks to look under, so there aren’t always new and wonderful locations to find.   Just in case you aren’t as familiar with the Main Street row on and above 3rd, you’ve hit the jackpot – these are the places you’re going to want to swing through.  Hot tip: check out Vancouver restaurants reviews from Granville Online.. they’ve got the last word on the eats you’ll need during your shop-a-thon.

For your high street picks, Vincent Park is well worth the trip to 27th Ave. VP is home to the just launched Cheap Monday Cult Club, a host of brands as MinkPink, Super Sunglasses, Funktional, Fred Perry, Alkemie and Something Else by Natalie Wood. [Googlemap]

Burcu’s Angels is vintage fit for the ultimate selective shopper.  Burcu’s picks are romantic, eccentric and individualistic – these are detailed, often period pieces that are going to astound and spotlight those who choose them. [Googlemap]

When it comes to vintage, F As In Frank is one of the city’s favorites.  Frank’s style of vintage is much different than Burcu’s; where Burcu is classically eccentric, Frank is hipster friendly and far more urban.  This is the place where you can acquire everything from hip-hop inspired street wear to leathers and fatigues. [Googlemap]

Mandula may be Main Street’s newest addition after they recently took over grace-gallery‘s old space beside the Narrow Lounge (my favorite Mt. Pleasant hangout) but it is not a strange label to Vancouver’s observant style crew.  Mandula’s pieces are ethereal and will take your breath away; see the new space and take in the label’s works. For those outside of YVR, Mandula has a handful of items available within an online store.  [Googlemap]

It was bound to happen any day now, and here it is! Paris’ elite label Balmain has forced us back into Balmainia with The Outnet’s up to 80% off sale.  There are a few incredibly choice items for grabs; the distressed tailed leather moto jacket ($1,970, 75% off), studded leather shirt ($2,364, 70% off), metal insert military shirt ($1,935, 70% off), sequin camo skinnies ($943, 80% off) and the metallic racerback dress ($605; 80% off).

Bitch and moan if you will about the label still being outrageously out of reach for the average Joe, but hey, average isn’t what this label is going for.  In order to be elite, you have to be extravagant, even the majority thinks it’s a little asinine.  Instead of being green, I choose to admire the lifestyle from afar.  There are more items appearing as I type, now shop, elitists, shop!

Alexander McQueen’s bike zip ankle booties; they’re like a really expensive phoenix that won’t stop rising.  It seems that after Lee McQueen’s untimely passing last spring that there have been a few of the best selling items seeing reincarnations on the market in the last six months.  One being the bike bootie, the box clutches (most notably the knuckle dusters) and the actual knuckle dusters themselves, sans bag attachment.

This isn’t to say re envisioning a design is what I’m poo-pooing; not at all.  It only seems that it has become increasingly obvious that someone (possibly house owner the Gucci Group, part of powerhouse PPR) has been pushing Sarah Burton and team to create new versions of highly sellable pieces.  We’ve all heard the rumblings prior to McQueen’s passing the label wasn’t as profitable as one would like (the McQueen label was profitable for the first time in 2007), and one can’t legitimately get on board with design recycling at this level.

I’ve never been one for a peep toe boot, and the design for this piece was always a bit sketchy to me; the open jacket-like zip on the front displaying the foot always freaked me in the wrong way.  It’s time for the McQueen bike bootie to lay to rest along with its original creator.

I yearn for new designs;  something truly original that we equate the McQueen label with.  We all know Sarah Burton is capable of cranking out the magic… ’till then!

It’s time to get glittery, and for a party shoe fit for a New Year’s or holiday party the new Senso Wilma is the new hit of the season.

Each new pair (there are three new glitter shades available) are perfect for your holiday or New Year’s Eve party extravaganzas, and at $160 per pair aren’t going to leave you for broke.  These new Wilmas are going to be on the demiCouture Holiday Heel countdown, so stay tuned and check it out.

It’s Christmas gifting season, which spells a threat to unique shoppers – acquiring a unique gift for your recipient that won’t break the bank, your retail sanity and is local.  The Gift Shop hits all the marks; you are supporting local designers, remaining on budget since all items in the shop are under $100, and will be utterly unique due to the collection of artists chosen to retail their wares at the shop.

This is no Portobello Market, folks.. this is the real thing and only available for a limited time.  Gift Shop is located at the former Mono Pop-Up shop location; 8 East Cordova in Gastown [Googlemap].  I suggest you check out pieces from Henderson Dry Goods; they are my personal favorites.

If you’re still paying attention to Balmain, and a few people are, you’ll already be acquainted with this little delight: the torn sequin dress from the SS11 collection.  Originally tagged at $25,078 US , this frock of dreams is now included within Luisa Via Roma’s end of season sale.

The dress is now 60% off, which brings the price of the piece down to a rather measly $10,031 (€7,645).  If you’re in the mood, this is one piece I would be all over like white on rice.

Lament with me!

Ion Magazine, larry. designs and myself are very excited to present tonight’s COMPASS[ION] event at Guilt & Co [Googlemap].  The event is a fundraiser to provide new clothing to street kids through Covenant House, and enjoy the delightful designs of larry. and view works by 4 photographers (including myself) featuring larry. scarves.

If you cannot donate new (items must still be retail tagged) pieces, there will be a marvelous gift table featuring larry. items, PARTS by Heather and postcard sets of myself and others’ photographs of the larry. range.  Guilt is right below Chill Winston in Gastown, so you’ve got no reason to pop in for a drink or two and hang out with all of us!

Also featured will be 13 short performances by some ace local musicians; a handful of them I know well so I can vouch for their skillz.

Be sure to RSVP on Crackbook, and get there early.. it’s going to be a packed house!

For those curious as to what the photos will be like, check out this preview video created during the shoot a few weeks back.

COMPASS[ION] from Liz Van Allen Cairns on Vimeo.

Doc Martens sent me a pair of Blakes a while back, only sent them in the wrong size.  Somehow I ended up with a size 42 (too big), so now you’re [potentially] going to win over my loss.  I’m selling them for $70.  I kick lowballers in the junk, so cheap bastards need not bother.

WANT THEM? EMAIL ME!!

Facts:

-Boots are new (never worn) in box
-Size 42 (women’s 11, men’s 9)
-Side zipper for easy on/off
-Retails $125 US+

Only available if you’re in Vancouver, because I’m not posting these buggers.

Positivity is a valued trait in modern society; we meditate to banish bad energies, look for the good in people and do our damndest to put a happy spin on most everything we do.  Our mothers and fathers schooled us in nice thinking, and urged us to keep our scorn and distaste to ourselves – if you don’t have anything nice to say, you shouldn’t be saying anything at all.

demiCouture has always come under fire for being blunt.  As the writer of 100% of demiCouture’s content, I have always opted to have an unveiled opinion – I say what I mean, and mean what I say.  When I mention anything that may be taken to offense (that a runway show is not up to expectations, that I don’t care for a particular brand; the list of previous topics is lengthy), it’s not said so you can bop your head in blissful agreement.  demiCouture exists so that standards can be challenged; a fashion blog isn’t doing its job if a little discussion fervor isn’t felt now and again.

This blog exists to challenge your ideas (and mine) about style, fashion, design, talent, trends.. everything that as a the administrator of this website I deem worthy for discussion.  It has been mentioned that I’ll ‘say anything’; which is not at all cloth to the truth.  I’ll always say what’s on my mind, or this website would cease to have a function and reason for existence.  Reason and logic are used to substantiate any of my opinions, and while you may not be a fan of my line of reasoning, there is a reason why you have come here to digest demiCouture’s content.

Without criticism, there is no legitimacy to the fashion industry.  Without those who would stand up and say something is beautiful, hideous or halfway between both, even the Positive Patsies of this world would begin to bang their heads against the walls in boredom.  Whether a designer, label or group’s status on demiCouture is something you agree with is irrelevant; the fact the opinion is there and you can make a decision either way is what I am proud of.  If a discussion germinates from said opinion, that provides me with drive to continue to create content.

I always do my best to articulate said criticism and praise in a manner that will provoke discussion, argument and thought.  Nobody likes a bobblehead; the opinion equivalent of an O faced blow up doll.  A website that heralds discussion (be it positively or negatively based) is always worth existing, whether you happen to agree or not.

This is why you will always see unveiled opinions on demiCouture, and I refuse to cease or be sorry for it.

Vancouver’s premiere menswear shopping destination Roden Gray is finally celebrating their opening of the Water Street location next Thursday night.  Their doors have been open for the last two weeks, but finally we have an excuse to hang about and be amongst the clothing without looking like creepsters.

The party will feature dranks supplied by Red Stripe and Ketel One Vodka, as well as food from neighbouring eatery The Diamond (which is great, if you’ve never been I suggest you do) and DJ spins by San Francisco’s Eug.  See you there!

WHEN: 4PM – late
WHERE: 8 Water Street [Googlemap]

When sales hit, it’s hard to discern what you actually need versus what you want (in most cases, everything!) and things can get a little overwhelming.  There are 5 must have items to get you through the season.. let’s take a look!

1.  A pair of flat leather boots.  With snow and rain underfoot, it’s a must to have a pair of water resistant boots that are flat enough to walk a few hours without flinching at the prospect.  Proenza Shouler’s open back boots and Maison Martin Margiela’s Chelseas are ideal options.

2.  A heavy coat.  Puffers and other jackets come and go with the trends, though a classic heavy coat (likely wool) is always in style.  Choose a dark hue, ideally black or navy and try to pick a style military in essence that is eternally acceptable.  Military styles are still ever so hot; Smythe’s double breasted and Rick Owens’ minimalist piece are excellent options to consider in the decorated and minimalistic ends of the design spectrum.

3.  A black leather cross body bag. A black cross body is perfect for numerous reasons; hands free bags are the best for busy bees, black leather is timeless and you’re going to be able to (and want to) wear it with nearly anything and everything you already own.  It’s the perfect chameleon piece! When it comes to bags, Alexander McQueen’s Faithful bag for the ladies or Want Les Essentiels De La Vie’s laptop ready bag are both excellent, practical options.

4.  Leather gloves.  Black is best, but really any leather is going to be a best bet for your hand’s protection during harsh winter conditions.  Hands require two things during the winter, the first being gloves and the second an intense moisturizer (Yes, that includes men as well!).  For the covering part, check out 3.1 Phillip Lim’s chain and Bottega Veneta’s gloves are picture perfect.

5. A lambswool sweater. Unless you’re allergic, lambswool is one of the warmest and most affordable options for you to keep warm this winter.  Remember to buy a thin sweater; it’s imperative to avoid looking like that kid from A Christmas Story.  Check out Peter Jensen’s chunky knit cardi or AllSaints’ Holmgard crew for inspiration.

I always like to work up to really big giveaway news, and this is a nice work up.  If you’re a fan of the fruity frags, then CK Beauty is right up your back alley.

All you’ve got to do is comment on the demiCouture Facebook contest image, and you’re entered.  You’ve got until Sunday December 5 at 11:59PM to enter.  Even if this scent isn’t up your alley, it would make a marvelous holiday gift for someone on your list so get commenting!

No pressure, but you should fan demiCouture on Facebook and follow @demiCouture on Twitter.

Can you tell I really wish I had some Super Mario 3 action right about now? AGHHH.

If you’ve ever dreamed of looking like a literal trash bag, Pyrenex has a coat to fulfill your yearning.  Check this beast out; it’s a guilted puffer; long enough to be a cut out bin bag and collarless so it evokes that true delelicte appearance.

For those that feel like a laugh, imagine spending just over $1,000 for this piece of shiny diarrhea! What a crime this bugger is.

For a look at a few much improved Pyrenex pieces, check out the fur lined and hooded piece.

The days of shiny throwback leather trousers have come to a close! Check out Notify’s version of the skinny cargo, only in variously hued soft suedes.

These cargo trousers are $785 each; a pretty penny, though an excellent vision of what one should be looking for on the high street.. it’s a sure bet Topshop, AllSaints or another heavy hitter will be releasing their own version in due time.

More fun than the twelve days of Christmas are the twelve days of Jeffrey – for twelve days Solestruck will be giving away one pair of Jeffrey Campbell shoes every day!

There will be different guidelines for every day of the giveaway; one day you may need to fan Solestruck, comment on a blog post.. just keep your peepers peeped on the Solestruck site every day for the next 12!

Today is the Mark Roks wedge.. get your entries in!

Gastown’s One Of A Few & Vancouver’s Lily & Jae are holding a Christmas shopping party just in time for holiday gifting preparation. There will be discounts (your chance to acquire a card worth 15-50% off your purchase), gifts for the first 10 guests to arrive and DJ spins by Sincerely Hana.  Don’t forget to RSVP on Crackbook!

When: December 9th, 5-9PM
Where: One Of A Few [Googlemap]