Having the first Book Nook post of 2012 coincide with kick-off day for our second YLF Book Club meet-up feels very fitting to me. As it turned out, our first Book Club title, Parisian Chic, generated lots of discussion. Opinions differed greatly and it was good fun thrashing things out on the forum. The book certainly sparked new interest in items that author Ines de la Fressange names on her list of essentials: the navy V-neck sweater, low-heeled loafers (a big trend this season), a striped tee, leather jacket and a versatile blazer. But there was more to it than that. Her style advice and the conversations that ensued clearly struck a chord with many YLF readers, and actually inspired some of us to start the next leg of our style journey. From incorporating that certain je-ne-sais-quoi element into our current wardrobe or use the “Magnificent Seven” as the basis for a complete style make-over, to thought-provoking discussions on what exactly constitutes tomboy style and why dressing in a classic way sometimes still gets a bad wrap. This book had us rethink topics that carry over from one year to another, and contemplate where we would like to go next. 

Let’s Talk About Bill Cunningham

This month YLF Book Club is all about the beautiful documentary Bill Cunningham New York, an ode to the New York City based photographer who is considered to be one of the pioneers of street style and continues to daily document trends and creative dressing in his inimitable way. I found it very moving and uplifting to see that in all those years Mr. Cunningham has never compromised on his ethical and artistic views, and how he is still the happiest with camera in hand, snapping pics of people who are obviously enjoying getting dressed in the morning. Now that’s what I call having fun with fashion on multiple levels! 

We can’t wait to hear what you thought of the movie. What’s the one thing that stuck with you the most? Have you started taking more of an interest in street style reportage after watching it?  

Quick reminder: On the Book Club page you can find the schedule of previous, current and future Book Club titles.

My comprehensive “must haves” list for Spring 2012 is still several weeks away, but here’s a teaser to whet your appetites. I figured we needed a little Spring boost in the dead of Winter. 

Something Orange

It’s the colour of the season, so if it’s your thing, stock up with orange wardrobe delights. We will see all shades of the colour, from pastels and brights to burnt oranges, muted tones, red-orange and deep rust. Remember that you don’t need to wear a solid orange top or bottom to sport the colour. Instead, sport orange in a print, accessory, layering piece, or toenail polish. 

I’m interested to see the consumer reaction to orange. According to last years colour by gender infographic, it is the least favourite colour among women.

A Denim Shirt

They aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but denim shirts, or “camp shirts” are truly versatile, and to my eye very cool. They can effectively dress down an outfit, creating and interesting mix with dressier pieces. They are also a casual staple. 

Patterned Pants

Don’t cringe and give this fashion forward look a chance. We’re looking at all sorts of patterns from classic subtle plaids and gingham, to crazy bright florals, jailbird stripes and everything in between. Pant silhouettes are skinny, flared, wide legged, slouchy, boot cut, pleated, tapered, cropped — you name it — and you’ll probably find it in a printed version this season. 

A Pair of Loafers

The flat classic loafer is always in style, but this season it’s a statement. Chunky or refined, sporty or dressy, neutral or coloured, solid or patterned, edgy or classic, take your pick. Of course, there are heeled loafers for Team Heels, but the look is more about the flat or low heeled version as seen on the runways of New York Fashion Week last September. 

So how do these items grab your fancy?

MaryK liked reading how Gucci got back it’s groove. Mary remembers back to when she visited Rome 16 years ago and walked past a Gucci boutique and saw a little sign in English that said, “Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten.” She never forgot this priceless slogan. 

Laurinda was shocked to read that bridal shop Pricilla of Boston spray painted and destroyed thousands of dollars worth of bridal merchandise because they were going out of business. I don’t get it.  

Inge is completely smitten by the first white trouser outfit in Carolina Herrera’s Spring 2012 Collection (via Not Dead Yet Style) because it is elegant, colourful, trendy and classic. The green is exquisite and the abstract pattern mixing of the pullover and scarf is divine. Herrera’s collection was one of my favourites at Fashion Week last year and I love this outfit too. We’ll have to come up with our own version, Inge. 

Annagybe informs us that brilliant young designer Jason Wu is doing a line for Target. 

Vildy found this article called “The Death Of Pretty”, which claims that young women today do not aspire to pretty anymore, and would prefer to look hot.

Lisa’s eyes were opened when she read about the danger of the alluring assortment on The Vivienne Files. Lisa confesses that this is probably how she ended up with grey blazers that she ended up passing on to happier homes.

I made booties Shoe of the Year for 2011 because they are versatile, comfortable and in many cases elevate an outfit from nice to fabulous. Here are three very comfortable bootie styles with lower heels, and that don’t gape at the ankle. Wear them with trousers and jeans, or match them up with skirts and dresses. 

Vivanz Camille Bootie

This is what I call a no-nonsense shoe because it’s simple, yet well designed. It reminds me of a Prada bootie. It’s stretchy, canvas-like fabrication is soft and modern, while the square toes are on-trend. The bootie looks chunky but it is as light as a feather. Works for a wider foot and runs true to size.

Ara Tala Bootie

This style is more refined than the Vivanz Camille. It’s also as light as a feather and runs true to size. It has the added advantage of a cut away front that is vertically flattering on the leg line. 

Spring Step Generate Bootie

Colour-blocked booties are a rare animal and I like their retro appeal. The top front of the boot rubbed my ankle a little to start off with, but I expect that to stop after a while because the leather is super soft. A fun bootie that runs true to size.  

These booties are comfy on their own, but I’d still add a comfy insole for extra cushioning because my feet enjoy the pampering. Size up half a size to insert an orthotic.