Haute Classics Blog

Bright & Bold

HCErika — Tue, 08 May 2012 15:01:31 +0000

There’s something about spring fashion that seems to put us in a bright and cheery mood. We’re loving playing with colour, cuts, and textures to make this spring our most stylish yet. We’ve followed our animal instincts and added a raw edge to this favourite spring look.

Hervé Léger bandage dresses are seasonably versatile, chic pieces, that pack a lot of punch. When sized correctly, they accentuate curves in just the right way. The best part, the tops are cut in about a zillion different ways, so whether a scoop, V or sweetheart cut looks best – theres a dress just for you. The bright orange of this dress is the perfect spring pick me up, for your wardrobe.

Chloe comme Parris is definitely a favourite Canadian design team. The two design savvy sisters know just how to make clothes that have that certain je ne sais quoi. ‘Cut Blazer’ in navy is the perfect jacket for spring / summer nights out. This slouchy fitted jacket has small magnetic pieces inside the lapels to close and layer many different ways, while cut out shoulders and fitted back detail give the jacket an feminine – edgy look that we can’t get enough of.

Prada, Prada, Prada. Sigh. What is there to say? Pitone Brandy Python “Pattina” Bag (say that 5 times fast) is a drool worthy piece that any fashionly gifted girl should own. It definitely is a splurge piece, but you’ll love it for a lifetime.

Miu Miu black T-Strap Peep – Toe Wedge gives you sky high lift, and are amazingly comfortable! Easy to shop in all day, and dance the night away. With their 1″ platform and 5″ heal, we’re loving the instant super model height these shoes give you.

All photos by Sarah Jeannette.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

HCErika — Wed, 02 May 2012 02:46:37 +0000

It’s hard to believe another month has come and gone! We’re well on our way to warmer, sunny days – but for now it’s important to be prepared for spring showers. The classic Burberry trench is a must have for absolutely everyone. A staple piece such as this, is not only smart, but stylish (we love the feminine fitted cut). Easy to layer if need be, top with Hermes scarf, a fantastic bag – and you’re ready to take on the day, no matter the weather.

Adding a gorgeous Hermes scarf will be one of the most classic and beautiful pieces added to your wardrobe; when you find one you absolutely love. They key is to make sure its in pristine condition, and the colours are versatile enough to add to any outfit. Blue and yellow bold colours are striking in Hermes “Ferronnerie” by Cathy Latham Silk Scarf.

Salvatore Ferragamo pebbled leather bag pops with sun kissed spring colour. A fun work bag, big enough to fit your iPad, documents or whatever else is in your day to day necessities.

Spring footwear can also be a little bit of a gamble. Unless you feel like carrying around an extra set of pumps in your bag, having a great shoe that can sustain the rain is your only other option. Marni marries fashion and function with rubber Mary-Janes. These bad boys will keep you dry without sacrificing style. Let the inner child in you enjoy rainy days! Jumping puddles has never looked this good.

Effortless Elegance

HCErika — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:20:05 +0000

In the world of designer consignment, couture pieces are always a pleasure to come by. We were absolutely thrilled when a gorgeous Rene Ruiz mermaid gown came through our door. The precise beading and layers upon layers of tulle truly make this dress from a ball gown to a gorgeous work of art.

Photo By: Sarah Jeanette

With a dress as whimsical as this, it’s important to keep the accessories tasteful and appropriate. What better purse option to choose than Chanel circular black wristlet. It’s the perfect size to fit your cell phone, compact mirror, cards and lipstick – without being overstuffed. We love the clean and simple sophistication of Tiffany & Co. 1837 Sterling Silver cuff and Movado watch with diamonds. ( <3 )

Photo By: Sarah Jeanette

Fashion Friends

HCErika — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 03:01:57 +0000

Pint sized, fashion obsessed twins, Maleah and Brittany Sparks are frequents at HC – and definitely girls to keep your eyes out for. These über hardworking ladies are moguls in the making. They understand that its all about hard work and paying your dues. Under their belts: a Social Media Strategist internship position at YYZ Living (perfect for the self proclaimed, social media obsessed), a beautifully styled website (www.sparkstwins.com) which lead to a rapidly growing online presence. Through emerging themselves in the fashion world, and their smooth networking skills, they were approached by the execs of Fashion Television, to contribute coverage of Toronto Fashion Week. Next on tap, styling for BOLD Magazine.

Brittany (right) & Maleah (left)

We absolutely adore the twins’ personal style. Last time they were in, we chatted about spring fashion and favourite new pieces in store. Their top pics: Chanel, Gucci, and Christian Louboutin of course.

Maleah w/ Chanel 10" Patent Leather Quilted Shoulder Bag

Brittany w/ Hermes Daimyo Princes du Solei levant Cashmere Scarf

Christian Louboutin Sigourney Ankle Boots // Gucci Babouska Studded Ankle Boots

“The beauty of the red sole heels. Christian Louboutin heels are one of our staple pieces worth the lengthy investment process. Finding a pair (ok TWO pairs) of Louboutin’s consigned is just about impossible, however, the day will come!” Brittany

“We are both very petite, so finding heels that are fashionable and size 5 is just about impossible. If our feet were magically to grow, we would proudly rock these Gucci studded ankle boots. Yup, even to the local strip plaza. They add just enough edge to any outfit.” – Maleah

Prada Black Saffiano Calf Leather Document Holder

“We love Prada, always have and always will. We are always bopping around the city so this Prada large zip bifold is the perfect ‘on the go’ companion.” Brittany

P.S … we adore their tumblr! (http://sparkstwins.tumblr.com/)

Spring has Sprung!

HCErika — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 02:05:51 +0000

Spring is upon us once again. It’s time to shed our winter fur and look forward to what’s to come. More hours of sunshine, warmer weather, and of course – spring fashion. Our fashion forecast: light silks, pretty pastels and Balenciaga.

It was definitely love at first sight when the Balenciaga City Brogue bag came into our lives. A perfect pick for spring; the grey and minty tones freshen any look. We simply adore the lavender Alice + Olivia silk dress not only because it’s super light and comfortable, but it can be styled in many different ways. Top with a tuxedo blazer if you’re out for the night or a light linen jacket for day. Roger Vivier strappy sandals can also go from day to night with elegance and charm.

Spring weather can be a little unpredictable, so we like to be prepared with something that can be paired well with many different coat or jacket options. We suggest staying neutral with this silk Salvatore Ferragamo beige scarf. The chain link pattern adds just the right hint of character without adding too much print. Little pops of colour and detail are added with light accessories. We are going quality over quantity and choosing investment pieces like the Hermes “Silhouette” narrow printed bracelet and Tiffany twist ring.

HC @ Toronto Fashion Week

HCErika — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 02:38:01 +0000

Last week, HC had the amazing opportunity to be part of the madness that is Toronto Fashion week. We had a fantastic time running around the city, in our highest of heels, mingling with fellow fashion fanatics. From hotels to the tents, we took in as much fashion as possible. Sitting along the likes of top editors, fashion journalists, photographers, and local celebs, we couldn’t get enough. Our top favs: David Dixons appropriately curated collection inspired from Alfred Hitchcock’s, The Birds. Pink Tartan perfectly portrayed the chic woman who appreciates a classic peplum, but adds an insane modern edge to it and Lucian Matis’ decadent sophistication – gone goth.

Our new obsession: Lucian Matis and David Dixon both blew us away with serious feathered ensambles. Massive jackets and full length gowns were nothing less than spectacular.

Beautifully detailed “The Birds” inspired David Dixon Fall/Winter 2012 collection.

An eerie elegance and divine luxury was felt with Lucian Matis’ Fall/Winter 2012 collection.

Pink Tartan was such a favourite. We couldn’t get enough of perfectly tailored peplum pieces with feathered mini skirts. Monochromatic red looks are definitely a favourite for fall.

HC & Style Friends

w/ designer David Dixon @ The Spoke Club

w/ Mel Hwang of World Of 4 @ WMCFW Tents

http://worldof4.com/

w/ Spiro Mandylor of It's All Style To Me @ Pink Tartan

http://itsallstyletome.com/

L’amour Fou

HCErika — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 03:15:24 +0000

Sometimes the most elegant or romantic of evenings happen by surprise. We suggest a night in with a glass of wine, a cozy blanket and Pierre Thoretton’s, L’amour fou. A documentary on the life of iconic fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent. This film is effortlessly romantic and beautifully narrated by life long romantic / business partner Pierre Berge. It should do nothing less than help you to remember your inner hopeless romantic and ultimate appreciator of haute couture.

Watching Yves struggle with politics, drug and alcohol abuse, and his inner demons, gives you an emotional insight to the artistic vison he sought out for women around the world.

We were so inspired by the story of Yves’ life, that we decided to pull our favourite YSL looks and incorporate a few spring trends into the mix.

(Yves St Laurent Spring 2012 RTW)

(HC styled looks)

Bold brights are everywhere for spring. We love the girly look of a classic DVF wrap top paired with an edgy bottom. Robert Rodriguez black cigarette pant takes it to the next level. Leather detailing of the pants and croc texture of the YSL bag make a major statement, while metallic gold YSL pumps complete the look.

When shopping for any seasonal change, it is important to balance an influx of fashion pieces along with investment pieces. Classic style and elegance radiate naturally through with a beige YSL trench. Animal print detail is a fun way to add some personality, so we’ve rolled up the sleeves of the trench and continued the look with YSL animal print pumps. Divine Cartier black alligator tote tied with vintage YSL scarf are amazing additions to your wardrobe for the long haul.

Sorbet hues and sequins are a wonderful way to freshen up your spring wardrobe. The tones of the top are complimented beautifully with a grey YSL jacket. Keeping with traditional YSL style, the structure of the lapels add an ambiguos touch. To finish off, a playful pop of colour with purple YSL chunky wooden sandals.

HC and E!

HCErika — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:14:14 +0000

Earlier this fine February, we had the up most pleasure to hang out and talk spring style with So You Think You Can Dance Canada’s Leah Miller. The afternoon was spent chatting about our favourite spring trends, celeb fashion influences and our shared love for special treasures in store right now.

Along with her, she brought her team from E! Canada for a special segment on shopping consignment and our favourite spring pieces at HC. Be sure to watch E! all throughout March to see our mini interview with Leah showing her how to style our favourite spring trends.

HC owners Jina (left) and Stella (right) with E! producer, Tim Chan

HC family and Leah Miller <3

We will keep you posted on air times during March via FaceBook and Twitter!

Gift Guide : Valentines Wish List

HCErika — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:41:46 +0000

With Valentines Day right around the corner, it’s pretty easy to overload on chocolates and indulge in too many sweets. This year, instead of the same old card and flowers, we’ve set our sights on some pretty sweet gift ideas. Treat your Valentine and say I love you, in the best way possible.. with presents!

Style Guide : Looks to Love

HCErika — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:21:50 +0000

The absolute best part of February is Valentine’s Day. Yes, a cheesy holiday to most, but fear not! For all hopeless romantics and cynics alike, we’ve pulled beautiful options for your best dressed Valentines yet. Whether it be your best friend, your lover, or whoever: step out for the night looking amazing with your loved one and enjoy the festivities. Just be sure to watch out for Cupid’s arrows

For the greatest Valentine inspired shoe, we immediately knew these silk Lanvin pumps were perfect. The ballerina pink colour and crystal detailed stiletto are feminine, beautiful and classic. We were inspired by the different textures of the shoe, and continued it with the rest of the look. Wilfred lace bustier top and Brose rose textured skirt whispers an endearing flirtation. To top it all off, a vintage Chanel belt posing as a necklace!

Valentines va va voom! We love, love, love this Hervé Léger fuchsia dress. It definitely is a statement piece, so we’ve paired it with gray suede Christian Louboutin pumps (that flatter the trim of the dress so nicely) and Fendi Love Letter clutch. They both compliment the dress without added flash.

We head over heels fell in love with the exquisite lace applique this Jay Godfrey silk dress. The overall classic romantic look is modernized with a full exposed back zipper, and gives it that extra je ne sais quoi. We love the sweet, sophisticated tone of this look with the classic 8” Chanel single flap, and patent leather Christian Louboutin stilettos.