Category Archives: Enduring Style

The Surprising Divide Between Those Who Knit and Those Who Crochet

The Surprising Divide Between Those Who Knit and Those Who Crochet

Every few years knitted, or crocheted clothing and accessories resurface as in style.  And over the years I have owned and worn many a knitted sweater, or scarf. However, what I did not know about this textile is that is has not only withstood the test of time but it has both opponents and fans in each corner.

Recently, I was looking for a craft to take up that I could make good use of, something that I might be able to donate. I found a slew of information regarding knitting and crocheting things like blankets, sweaters, scarves and caps for people in need. Once I knew that I would be learning something that would make use of my idle hands during down time, and be of use to someone else I thought I was ready to collect some supplies. But this is where I came to learn the differences between the two activities. This took me on a lengthy investigation of which is easier, pricier, more attractive and while on that search I also learned that some knitters believe their craft is elevated in status to those who crochet. Apparently, to the best of what I could dig up, this has something to do with the elite members of society having learned to knit, as a hobby, and the help having to master crocheting to bring in extra money back in the day. In conclusion, I decided to learn which ever there was available at in the hobby shop down in town.  But, I bet I never look at these handiworks in quite the same way again.

The Beloved Shoe That Transcends Trends With Ease

The Beloved Shoe That Transcends Trends With Ease

There is a very good reason why the term “ballet flats” is one of the most popular searches in online magazines. For it is not a shoe known for elongating the leg, making women look sexy, or even taller, and yet it is adored by the masses. You name a designer and chances are they have fashioned a ballet flat or two into their collection. Jimmy Choo, Ralph Lauren, Manolo Blahnik,  Jill Sander and  numerous others have all gotten in on this bandwagon. And then on top of it all, there seems to be a favourite style for every designer, or fashion editor, and these are often broadcast. Perhaps it is the fact that this flat shoe is capable of portraying so many things without being anything other than itself.

If you are a classically inspired fashionista then tortoise shell might be your embellishment of choice on a pair of ballet flats, or if you like to jazz things up you may have them in covered in metallic sequins. But aside from this shoe being one that seems to transcend trends and avoids being classified as being associated with a particular era, it is one that also sidesteps a truth that seems to haunt other shoes. That is you can spend a little or a lot and find a beautiful pair to suit your personal style.  Bravo ballet slippers!

How to Get Jeans That Go the Distance

How to Get Jeans That Go the Distance

Jeans, we all know them, have them and wear them. They fall into the enduring style category big time, but this only true if you pick the right ones. Now, if you go off on some trend tangent, then you should know better than to expect them to last you years. Or let me rephrase that; don’t expect that you will want to wear them for years to come.  Shop right now, and you could be reaping the benefits of your buyer’s wisdom for a good long while. Smart and stylish, what a winning combo!

A pair of  favourite jeans can go the distance in a person’s wardrobe, but only if they meet some requirements, or better yet you avoid some pitfalls. For example, choose wisely for your body type. If you are small and short in stature then you want darker jeans to elongate your legs (deep blues/ blacks).  Stay clear of fly by night styles, such as strategically placed tears or fading, these will loose their interests before you know it, and both can make legs look shorter and bums look bigger. Please do not even get me started on bejeweled, patterned or otherwise “enhanced” jeans, because I will talk your ear off.  Summary: Purchase jeans with good clean lines, in sensible colours for your shape and not only will you reach for them frequently, you will not cringe at pictures of yourself because you were one of the few that actually  paid for  a fad that lasted the length of a movie.

The Coolest Boat Shoe Around

The Coolest Boat Shoe Around

Nothing says summer like boating, and to go boating you need boat shoes. Since the classic boat shoe has been around for longer than any of us can remember, they have crossed over to being a bit of a “dad’s shoe.” Yet, as we said previously, to boat you really do need boat shoes. Should you show up for a sail on a friends boat and you have on black-soled shoes, you are almost certain to be invited again. Plus, you may be asked to travel in socks until you once again dock up.

Seem like a conundrum, nah not a bit. The makers of boat shoes have not ignored the need for some changes in their supply range. The latest and greatest in this vein is the high-top boat shoe. Here you have a very modern take on a traditional shoe. They still have attractive moccasin stitching, and a leather heel pull, but these are in one word, cool. Just one look at these and you will be hankering to head out into the great blue expanse for days on end, to live the life of a captain or even a mate. But, considering the cost of some of these high-tops we are thinking more of a captain.

These are definitely alpha male shoes. So, if you are unfamiliar with boating, you may want to get some lesser shoes till you have boned up. Otherwise you might look like a fish out of water….sorry couldn’t resist.

The Statement Handbag and All It Is Worth

The Statement Handbag and All It Is Worth

The statement handbag is not a new craze, it is for sure an enduring accessory. Look at designers like Channel, or Louis Vuitton to see the lengthy past of their craftsmanship, and how it has been coveted for ages. So why are high-end bags so beloved? Well, for some it will be the more obvious reason of showing off how much they can spend, or how much they are appreciated by the person who gave it to them.

Others will recognize they are intended to be amazing quality, and the epitome of good taste. Whether it is the intent or not when it is purchased, such a bag is meant to last forever, but you must be prudent when you chose the style. For it is of no use to have an expensive purse that sits in the closet waiting for a certain trendy style to return in order to be used.

However, should you be in the percentage of owners that want to hold on to their bags till the end of their time, the do the following. Buy bags that have classic lines and construction that would be hard to surpass. Yes, it will be an investment, and yes when you carry it you will be making a statement. But, it need not be that you are just privileged, make it that you are smart and privileged. You lucky girl you!