SPRING FASHION: 7 must-buy style accessories from Vancouver makers
Accessories are one of the funnest — not to mention fastest — ways to update your wardrobe each season. A great shoe can add a pop to even the simplest ensemble, while a statement handbag can be a look-atme addition to every outfit, all season long. But, while we can all undoubtedly score a number of stylish options at any national and international (not to mention online!) retailers, we’ve opted to highlight fashionable finds from local makers and brands. From chic socks to enchanting gemstone jewelry, here are a few must-have local fashion finds from Aleesha Harris to help you update your style this season. STYLISH SLIDES
Spring is the time to free your feet and step out in a stylish pair of sandals like these Luce Woven Slide Sandal from Fluevog Shoes. The woven leather adds an element of texture, while the soft, blue shade offers a playful alternative to the go-to neutral footwear shades such as black, grey and nude. Pair with cuffed jeans, a relaxed T-shirt and a cosy knit cardigan or soft trench coat to create your instant weekend uniform. $399 | Fluevog.com
LOCAL LEATHER
It’s tough to pass up a durable, chic carryall tote — especially when it’s a) made in Canada, and b) boasts a butter-soft exterior and a cool cognac hue like this appropriately named Everyday Carry Tote from the South Okanagan-based brand Loper & Haas. It’s sure to look just as at-home atop your desk as it will at the beach. $440 | Loperandhaas.com
THE BIG DROP
Two hot trends (drop earrings and pearls) get paired in the perfect way with these dainty Diane earrings from the Vancouver-based brand Roque Jewelry. They’re the ultimate accessory for those days when you’re simply too rushed (or lazy) to do more than a low bun or messy ponytail with your hair. Consider yourself warned: these aren’t your grandma’s pearls. Although, she might want them to be. $660 | Roque.shop
SOFT TOUCH
There are cool clutches — and then there’s this Mary Rich Clutch No. 102. Thanks to its soft Italian leather — not to mention its even softer shearling exterior — and its perfectly oversized shape, it’s sure to be the only handbag you’ll actually want to carry around with you all season long. OK, and on into summer, too. $295 | Maryrich.com
STREET SNEAKS
The athleisure trend lives on this spring with sneakers of every shape, size, colour and level of embellishment being offered by designers big and small. And we’re not mad about it — not one bit. Streamline your sneaker silhouette with these Native Shoes Jefferson 2.0 Liteknit in a skyblue hue that boldly breaks away from the plain-Jane white shoe trend. $100 | Nativeshoes.com
SOCK IT TO ME
What’s thrice as nice than one pair of stylish socks? A three-pack of them. If you’re already a big fan of the Brunette and Blonde-emblazoned collections from the local line Brunette the Label, then you’re going to love these cute sock sets from the brand. Pair with your favourite cuffed jeans and sneakers for now, then pop them on with shorts and slides come sunnier days. $39 | Brunettethelabel.com
SARTORIAL STAR
If you’re looking for a stylish accessory that takes literally zero effort to incorporate into your seasonal style, look no further than a neckerchief. The soft squares can be tied around the neck, worn on the wrist, or even wrapped around the handbags of your favourite bag for a no-fuss pop of colour or print. We’re partial to this star-spangled silk version in pink and red from the local brand Mona Sultan. US$95 | Monasultan.com