Style Admirer » Lori’s Shoes

Trending: Hard Clutches

editor — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 04:18:01 +0000

The right handbag has the power to make an outfit or add just the right amount of oomph. Hard clutches can do either. Whether they’re an ensemble’s main attraction or the cherry on top, these tiny gems pack beauty, style and attitude. Large enough for a compact, lipstick and cellphone, hard clutches won’t accommodate bag clutter, but they do leave room for major style power. The options are infinite–be it bedazzled or reptilian, outrageous or classic–and they’re gaining popularity on the street. Though currently a big trend, these accessories can still add an unexpected element to a look. The first thing to remember is don’t think of them as strictly formalwear. They can be paired with jeans as easily as they can go with a gown.

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Samurai gold embroidered skull clutch (Alexander McQueen; $2,295)
2. Studded leather clutch (Matthew Williamson; $718)
3. Geometric beaded clutch (Aldo; $50)
4. Silver lizard-print clutch (Nine West; $30)
5. Rocio clutch with wood and snakeskin detail (farfetch.com; $610)
6. Nicole Miller silver beaded clutch (Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue; $175)

Images courtesy of Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, Aldo, Nine West, farfetch.com and Lori’s Shoes

By Meghan Turner

Fall Fashion to Welcome

editor — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 19:18:13 +0000

Welcome to fall in Chicago. The air holds a brisk chill and the trees are aglow with shades of yellow, orange and red. Signaling an adieu to summer and a hesitant hello to yet another winter, this change in season isn’t just a transition in weather. It’s a transition in wardrobe. As fashion’s favorite time of year, local designers and boutiques give shoppers an abundance of breathtaking clothing and accessories for Fall/Winter 2010. With both must-have trends and classic garments that cater to Midwestern style sensibilities, the city’s shopping scene offers rich variety and irresistible flair.

Set in the oasis-like Park at Lakeshore East, surrounded with high-rise condominiums, Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue, we at Style Admirer captured a piece of Chicago’s fall. These five looks, set against an expansive canvas, display the season’s hottest trends and incorporate pieces that can be treasured for seasons to come. With a focus on rich textures, tailored shapes, opulent embellishments and luxe fabrics–all by Chicago designers and boutiques–we pay homage to autumn.

First image: Velvet dress by C/FAN ($380; Cerato Boutique; 3451 N Southport Avenue), Allison Schiller ring ($449; Krista K; 3458 N Southport Avenue), Osanna Visconti double spiral cuff ($320; Sarca; 710 N Wabash Avenue), Hue lace tights ($18; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue) and Charles by Charles David “Nightlife” lace booties ($114; Lori’s Shoes). Above image: Agga B dress with gold beaded sleeves ($550), Melinda Maria “Baby Jane” earrings ($575; Sarca) and Hue tights ($18; Lori’s Shoes)

Agga B vintage fur vest ($760) and linen blouse with Swarovski crystals ($160), high-waisted jeans (the stylist’s own)

Smythe blazer ($595; Fix Boutique; 1101 W Fulton Market), Twelfth St by Cynthia Vincent patterned tank ($256; Fix Boutique), Rag & Bone wool mini skirt ($230; Fix Boutique), leg warmers (stylist’s own) and Sam Edelman black lace-up boot ($212; Lori’s Shoes)

Leather coat with fur lining by C/FAN ($1,118; Sofia Vintage; 72 E Oat Street), Allison Schiller stone ring ($398; Krista K), The Branch oversized silver cage ring ($160; Sarca); Maui silver antique heart necklace ($570; Sarca), Helmut Lang stretch leather leggings ($690; Krista K) and Josie satin tank ($128; Krista K)

Creative director and writer: Meghan Turner
Photographer: Ace Ujimori
Stylist: Maia McGinley with Meghan Turner
Model: Shanna Vincent
Hair and makeup: Emily Cumings
Special thanks to Kaitlyn Groth

FALLing in Love

editor — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 04:46:00 +0000

In Chicago, there are only a few quick weeks of brisk fall weather before winter’s frosty temps set in. While those weeks may be short-lived, they’re still highly anticipated by the fashion community. Season after season, fall collections are the most exciting, and we get to sport autumn must-haves before covering them up with the dreaded winter coat. This new season brings us a shift in color and texture—a dramatic change from summer’s threads. Bright patterns and flowing fabrics have now moved to the back of our closets to make room for new fall additions, including structured pieces, somber colors, luxe leather, surprising cut-outs and long-sleeve minis. Here’s a glimpse at my lust-worthy picks for Fall 2010.

Clockwise from upper left:

1. A.L.C. mini jersey dress ($298; Intermix). A simple long-sleeve mini in the season’s most coveted color and ruching at the hem makes it extra flattering.
2. Alexander Wang “Willow Frame Messenger” ($925; Barneys NY). The messenger bag grows up with a structured, ladylike shape and sultry red hue.
3. Sam Edelman “Zachary” ($208; Lori’s Shoes). A platform bootie that looks amazing paired with tights.
4. Drape neck sweater ($100; Zara). Cozy and chic, a modern cowl neck top is appropriate for work o play.
5. Ali Ro cutout dress ($264; Cusp). Unexpected cutouts give this cocktail dress a fresh approach.
6. Dana Rebecca Designs “Samantha Elizabeth” earrings ($1,540; Dana Rebecca). Black onyx paired with super Seven Quartz make these statement earrings a justified splurge.
7. Helmut Lang shearling jacket ($1,840; net-a-porter.com). Style meets function in this edgy yet warm jacket.
8. Essie’s “Sew Psyched” nail polish ($8; Essie). A refreshing alternative to fall’s standard Bordeaux nail lacquers.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of Intermix, Barneys NY, Lori’s Shoes, Zara, Cusp, Dana Rebecca, net-a-porter.com and Essie

Naughty Meets Nice

editor — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 03:36:56 +0000

I must admit that with the arrival of fall, my inner vixen comes out. I trade in my innocent floral frocks for a decidedly darker look. In past seasons, I’ve craved tough leather jackets and motorcycle boots, and that’s still the case for Fall 2010. However, I decided to take a softer, yet still sexy approach. Enter my new favorite fabric pairing: leather and lace.

The coupling of these two unlikely fabrics creates a fashion juxtaposition that’s hard to resist. Soft, supple leathers meet delicate lace for a combination that makes a downtown ensemble that’s distinctly ladylike too. To keep the look current, stick with black leather and white or cream laces. Looking to sharpen your edge? Pair with a strong red lip and layered silver chains, nothing is chicer.

Channel your inner vamp with the below items (clockwise from upper left):

1. CCSkye “Nika Lace Leather Pouchette” ($308; shopbop.com). From the shape to the print, this on-trend bag is perfectly girly.
2. Lace tee ($110; J. Crew). A dressed up fabric in a laid-back cut.
3. Christian Louboutin “Lace Crepe-de-Chine” pump ($725; Bergdorf Goodman). The ultimate feminine pump: sexy and ladylike.
4. Diane von Furstenberg tiered leather skirt ($625; Cusp). Flirty and romantic with an edge.
5. Dolce Vita leather lace-up boots ($212; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). This boot’s laces give it a throwback vibe, but the buckle and shape make it au courant.
6. Leather biker jacket ($310; Topshop) A tough jacket to contrast delicate laces.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of shopbop.com, J.Crew, Bergdorf Goodman, Cusp, Lori’s Shoes and Topshop

Transitioning Into Fall

editor — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 03:30:49 +0000

With sunny skies and temperatures in the high 80’s, it’s hard to believe fall is upon us. The evidence is in every store and boutique I set foot in, each one packed with a new season of fashion I can’t wait to wear. Neutral palettes, utilitarian garb, bold patterns and statement accessories are here to stay even as the weather changes. While I break out my leather jacket and knee-high boots at fall’s first chill, there are trends from Spring/Summer 2010 I am holding onto for as long as possible. Cut-out wedges, Lucite accessories and short shorts are a few that make the cut, as they transition so effortlessly into fall.

These pieces are on my fall “keep list” because they take just a little adjusting to make them fit for next season. After all, isn’t summer worth holding onto as long as possible here in Chicago?

1. Theory “Iselin” leather shorts ($315; Bloomingdales). Leather shorts were big for summer, and lucky for us the heavy fabric can be easily paired with colored and textured tights for crisp nights.
2. Plastic Island tunic ($127; plasticisland.com). What I paired with denim cutoffs and flip flops for summer is now the ideal knit with leggings and combat boots.
3. Jeffrey Campbell “Mary Roks” ($120; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). Open-toed wedges aren’t just for warm weather. Rock these with tights to keep them relevant.
4. Solid ripstop field jacket ($98; J.Crew). Use this lightweight jacket as a layering piece over a chunky sweater.
5. Frozen Flash necklace ($58; Anthropologie). Lucite accessories aren’t only summer staples; extend your purchase by incorporating them into fall’s day and night looks.
6. Alice + Olivia painted floral print top ($187; Cusp). A lightweight floral tank with a vibrant fall palette—a feminine accompaniment with a leather bomber.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of Bloomingdales, plasticisland.com, Lori’s Shoes, J.Crew, Anthropologie and Cusp

Lolla Style #2: Stand-out Style

editor — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 01:52:35 +0000

Oh Lolla, how I love you so. For three blissful days, I get to jam out with my favorite bands alongside other sweaty concert-goers. We party through rain or shine against Chicago’s gleaming skyline, yet the weekend isn’t all glow sticks and draft beers. With last year’s temperatures topping 90 degrees and a city-wide influx of urban hipsters, we prepare ourselves to battle the summer heat and crowds vying for the fashion spotlight. Think boho chic meets urban cool to guide this weekend’s wardrobe selections. I know such fashion pressure can be a bit looming, but never fear. My below day-by-day guide to Lolla style can help equip you for what’s always a weekend to remember.

FRIDAY

Shown above
Friday music picks: Strokes, Chromeo and Hot Chip.
Fashion picks: Channeling my inner flower child by rocking a boho maxi with some awesomely retro accessories.

1. What Goes Around Comes Around “Paloma” maxi dress ($278; ASOS). A maxi reminiscent of decades past.
2. House of Harlow “Carnelian” dome ring in Tiger’s Eye ($70; singer22.com). A festival-worthy bauble.
3. Tom Ford “Nicole” sunglasses ($390; Barneys). Rose tinted shades with a retro-glam feel.
4. Jeffrey Campbell “Snick” wedges in olive ($138; Lori’s Shoes). A clog meets a wedge for a modern interpretation of this throwback trend.

SATURDAY

Saturday music picks: Phoenix, Cut Copy, Empire of the Sun.
Fashion picks: Mixing girlie and grunge with the perfect denim cutoffs, wrap strap booties and a ruffled floral tank.

1. Jeffrey Campbell wrap strap booties ($230; shopbop.com). Rugged boots to protect your feet while treking from stage to stage.
2. Blank Denim patchwork cutoff shorts ($79; Saks Fifth Avenue). Bleached and ripped, just how jean shorts were meant to be.
3. Madewell floral tiered tank ($88; shopbop.com). A flirty, sheer tank to stay cool.
4. Rebecca Minkoff boyfriend crossbody bag ($295; Intermix). A rocker-chic messenger makes it easier to get through the crowds.

SUNDAY

Sunday music picks: Yeasayer, Arcade Fire, Temper Trap.
Fashion picks: Ending the weekend on a high note by standing out in a neon tribal romper.

1. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent cami romper ($275; revolveclothing.com). A lightweight silk romper with a festive print.
2. Ray-Ban wayfarer ($145; Ray-Ban). Classic shades with an edgy vibe.
3. Dolce Vita sandal ($78; Urban Outfitters). Metal accents with a twist – literally.
4. Alexander Wang “Brenda Camera Bag” ($425; Saks Fifth Avenue). A bag to fit only your most precious essentials.

By Leslie Garry

Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, Intermix, ASOS, singer22.com, Barneys, Lori’s Shoes, revolveclothing.com, Ray-Ban and Urban Outfitters

Lolla Style #1: Music Inspiration

editor — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:30:43 +0000

There’s no better place than Chicago during the first weekend in August. Since I missed Coachella earlier this summer, I’ll definitely be at Lollapalooza—blanket and camera in tow. The three-day festival melds my passions for music and style, and because one often inspires the other, my Lolla looks nod to the musicians I can’t wait to see. While I want my get-ups to seem effortlessly superb, there’s still a decent amount of planning to stylishly battle the heat and humidity.

FRIDAY

Shown above
Though I’m not a die-hard fan of her music, I do admire Gaga’s humor and artistry. The lady sure knows how to fly her freak flag, so I’ll honor her opening day performance with skin-tight Lycra and quirky pieces.

1. Quontom cutout dress ($90; Topshop). Edgy cut outs are cool and hot.
2. Dolce Vita “Indy” shoes ($36; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). While sky-high heels are more Gaga’s style, they just aren’t practical for Lolla.
3. “Chain Mail Perfection” body jewelry ($300; Litter San Francisco). Fashion-forward enough to make Gaga herself jealous, this embellishment is bound to be a conversation piece.
4. Paloma vintage sunglasses ($173; Akira; 1849 W North Avenue). An interesting, modern approach that rivals Gaga’s standout eyewear collection.

SATURDAY

I’ll revisit my youth Saturday night. Memories of pre-mainstream Green Day and Social Distortion have inspired me to rock elements of punk and alternative from the early 90’s. Who knew I’d regret dumping my old Doc Martens?

1. Urban renewal cutoff shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters). Denim shorts are a festival must-have—hands down.
2. Vintage Doc Martens ($128; Free People). Comfortable boots to trek Grant Park.
3. Plaid “Dakota Gilet” ($68; AllSaints). The cut-off sleeves are edgy and airy.
4. “Yes please” cutoff tank ($64; The Trend Boutique). Nothing says “punk” like pairing stripes with plaid.
5. “Diego” bucket bag ($825; Alexander Wang). This gorgeous cross-body bag keeps hands free and luggage minimal.
6. Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses ($170; Sunglass Hut). You can’t go wrong with this classic.
7. Low Luv knuckle ring ($80; Saks Fifth Avenue). Positively badass.

SUNDAY

If I survive this music marathon, the carefree, barefoot hippie within will shine through on Sunday. What better way to come off an intense weekend than to lounge in the grass swaying to tunes? Wolfmother (hauntingly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin) evokes a laid-back vibe that carries me back in time when peace, love and music ruled the earth.

1. Shady Brady hat ($70; Alcala’s; 1733 W Chicago Avenue). Be weary of UV rays by shading your face from the summer sun.
2. Nightcap Clothing “Penelope” dress ($275; Shopbop). Beat the heat with an airy white dress.
3. Vintage bottle necklace ($578; Free People). A perfect addition to the part boho, part rock ensemble.
4. Zara Terez holster bag ($125; p.45; 1643 N Damen Avenue). The most practical festival bag yet; it’s just big enough for all your necessities.
5. Hudson buckle boot ($345; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue). Add a masculine touch to an otherwise feminine outfit.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Topshop, Lori’s Shoes, Litter San Francisco, Akira, Urban Outfitters, Free People, AllSaints, The Trend Boutique, Alexander Wang, Sunglasses Hut, Saks Fifth Avenue, Alcala’s, shopbop.com, P.45, and Niche

Style Admirer Spring Picks: Cali Style

editor — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:04:55 +0000

There’s something so enchanting about California. I don’t know if it’s the salty air, dry heat, or balmy winds, but a recent trip gave birth to my new look for spring. From the surfers in Malibu to the hippies in Topanga canyon, fashion inspirations ran rampant. Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway—the top down and Jimi Hendrix streaming out the speakers—I daydreamed about a fresh spring and summer wardrobe. When I got back to Chicago, I went hunting for my new must-have items, all reminiscent of SoCal ‘70s boho/surf culture. Though I can’t bring Cali home with me, I can steal its carefree style. Spring and summer in Chicago are all about relaxing and having fun while looking effortlessly cool. With these items, that couldn’t be easier.

1. Free People “Vintage Empress Headpiece” ($118; Free People). A bold statement piece with a gypsy vibe.
2. Topshop “Nibbled Tee” ($32; Topshop). I wanted an edgy crop top, so I went with this distressed, bleached style.
3. Oliver Peoples “Josselyn” sunglasses ($400; Oliver Peoples). What’s not to love about these oversized shades?
4. Gara Danielle turquoise ring ($225; Intermix). The way this ring blends glamour and boho is stunning.
5. Miss Robertson “Saber-Jute” sandal ($110; Lori’s Shoes; 824 West Armitage Avenue). Edgy neutral sandals are a perfect summer staple that can dress down otherwise fancy frocks.
6. Carolyn Hedaya lace romper ($229; Mulberry & Me; 2019 W Division Street). I thought crochet lace on a romper would scream hippie, but it actually feels quite modern.
7. Current/Elliot hi-waisted denim shorts ($185; Saks Fifth Avenue). For pairing with my new crop top!
8. Essie nail polish in Turquoise and Caicos ($8; Essie). This soft green hue takes a refreshing step away from pink and nude shades.
9. Antik Batik “Bongo Bag” ($320; shopbop.com). This looks like a vintage find. It’s practical yet adds an instant cool factor.
10. Nightcap lace bell bottoms ($197; shopthetrendboutique.com). These invoke images of Jane Birkin, and they’re perfect for a summer festival.
11. American Apparel wool floppy hat ($40; American Apparel). A chic alternative to the fedora that’ll protect me from the summer sun.
12. Jeffrey Campell “Charli-C” clog ($125; Nordstrom). A great neutral throwback from the ‘70s boho culture, and being a Chanel S/S 2010 replica doesn’t hurt either.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Lori’s Shoes, Free People, shopthetrendboutique.com, shopbop.com, American Apparel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Topshop, Carolyn Hedaya, Nordstrom, Essie, Oliver Peoples, and Intermix

Trending: Wedges

editor — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:28:49 +0000

As Chicago finally heats up, I can’t wait to show off a fresh pedicure in spring’s biggest footwear trend: wedges. Though the wedge has cycled on and off the “must have” list for decades, it got its start in 1935 when Salvatore Ferragamo created the first pair. Since then, these chunky shoes have resurfaced in the ‘70s, the early ‘90s, and are now making another appearance for spring ‘10.

The wedge has an undeniable ability to lengthen and slim bare legs, and offer a relaxed alternative to heels. After all, sometimes in the laid-back days of spring and summer, heels can feel a bit too contrived. With the wedge, you can have height, comfort, and an attitude that won’t scream, “I’m trying too hard.” This season, choose a pair (or two!) that is daring and versatile.

As if it isn’t hard enough to make that choice, a wedge can range in height from one to five inches and are found in a multitude of materials (cork, leather, rope, wood) and forms (boot, strappy, mule, clog). The options really go on and on. Alexander Wang supplies his “it girl” cult following with the coveted animal print wedge. For a casual but über sexy style, Cynthia Vincent’s zip-up gladiator is made for day-to-night wear. Boho chic? Joie’s unique fringe version will look amazing with a tunic and cut-off shorts. This season, welcome the wedge back into your wardrobe with one of these styles:

1. Giuseppe Zanotti black suede star wedges ($639; Bluefly.com)
2. Cynthia Vincent “Luella” wedge ($355; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue)
3. MIA “Maiden” in “Sand” ($68; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue)
4. Alexander Wang “Alla” wedge mule in leopard ($650; Alexander Wang)
5. Miu Miu leather espadrilles ($585; net-a-porter.com)
6. Guess “Kinai” wedge ($99; Guess)
7. Joie “Rock Steady Fringe Wedge” ($345; Cusp)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Bluefly.com, Niche, Lori’s Shoes, Alexander Wang, Net-a-Porter, Guess, and Cusp

Fashion in Chicago: Events and Sales This Weekend

editor — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 17:33:21 +0000

FRIDAY EVENTS

Valentino Spring Trunk Show
Stop by the Michigan Ave Neiman Marcus from 10am to 4pm to receive wardrobe advice, and from noon to 3pm, enjoy informal modeling of the collection.

Robin Richman Group Show (2108 N Damen Avenue)
From 5pm to 8pm, Robin Richman will host a group show featuring designers and artists from Chicago and NY. Enjoy cocktails and hor d’oeuvres by Lula Cafe.

Kate Boggiano Closed Door Sale (2150 S Canalport Avenue, 3rd Floor)
Kate Boggiano is hosting an exclusive closed door sale and offering up to 55% off current, past, and sample pieces. Admittance by ticket only. Search “closed door sale” at kateboggiano.com.

WEEKEND SALES

SHE Boutique Winter Sale (shopsheboutique.com; 483 Central Avenue in Highland Park)
SHE Boutique is having their winter sale! All ‘09 styles are 50% off until 1/17. Enter online code: final50. Spring 2010 collections are excluded.

Tula’s Warehouse Sale (3738 N Southport Avenue)
Tula is having its 2nd annual Warehouse Sale from until 1/17! Stop by for huge discounts.

Veruca Salt Sale (521 N Kingsbury and 1921 N Damen Avenue)
Veruca Salt is having a huge sale now thru mid-January. Take 40% off the first item, 50% off the second item, and 60% off the third item!

Lori’s Shoes: Five-Day Jewelry Sale (824 W Armitage Avenue)
Thru 1/17, shop the entire jewelry collection and get 50% off!