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Your office style doesn’t have to be boring. It also doesn’t mean that you have to trade style for practicality. Here is how to nail that organized, office style.

1. Swap Your Bag for a Backpack

   If there is one piece of clothing or one accessory that can keep you highly organized, it is your choice of bag. But, remember, not all bags are created equal. Backpacks are particularly trendy at the moment, not to mention highly functional. The right backpack can even act as the perfect accessory and complete your look all at once.

   The problem with many bags is that they tend to be too small or uncomfortable to wear. They don’t allow you to carry everything you need in order to stay organized on a day-to-day basis. Want to bring your agenda? Well, there’s likely not enough room for that. Trade in your purse or bag this season for a backpack instead. You’ll be able to stay organized by having everything you need easily accessible and yet remain comfortable and trendy all at the same time.

2. Wear The LD West Original Holster

   We rely on our smartphones to accomplish many tasks and, naturally, we need them to be in close reach, whether we’re accomplishing work at the library or we’re at the office sending emails. LD West is the brand behind the original holster, which is a mix between a cell phone holder and wallet. It can be worn many different ways, including cross-body. This is a great way to keep your smartphone easily accessible (and ensure you never leave it behind anywhere) while also looking very trendy. Even better, you’ll be comfortable too.

3. Wear A Watch

   Sure, you have your smartphone to tell you the time, but there will inevitably be times when your smartphone runs out of battery power and you are left wondering what time it is. A watch is the perfect accessory to wear at the office; never be late to that important meeting or class ever again!

   LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet that is both trendy and functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories, like vegan backpacks, which are all perfect for looking good and staying organized this year. Click here to view our entire selection.

Just about everyone is on a quest to get that perfect picture for Instagram. The good news is that if you call Canada home (or you are travelling there), the country offers up plenty in the way of Instagram-worthy destinations. Take a look below.

1. Banff National Park (Lake Louise), Banff, Alberta

   Looking for that perfect Canadian-esque photo to put on Instagram? Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park, is the perfect destination. Banff National Park is also Canada’s oldest national park. Lake Louise, in particular, is home to some of the most beautiful turquoise blue water and snow-capped mountains that you’ve ever seen. However, there are Instagram-worthy spots are all over this national park.

2. Vancouver, BC

   Vancouver is arguably the most beautiful city in all of Canada, home to both breathtaking mountaintops, ocean fronts, and natural wonders alike. And all in one city! Your instagram feed likely doesn’t need any more shots of your feet at the beach, but if it did, Vancouver is home to a lot of beautiful beaches. There’s the famous Stanley park as well as the trendy Granville Island, but West Vancouver alone is home to some of the most picturesque views in all of BC, including Horseshoe Bay.

3. Toronto, Ontario

   Toronto is buzzing with Instagram-worthy sites. Home to interesting architecture, performance theatres, trendy eateries, cool neighbourhoods, and the Toronto Islands, you could fill up your Instagram feed with pictures of Toronto alone. This list doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of all of the trendy, Instagrammable spots in Toronto. If you have a hipster Instagram aesthetic, Toronto should definitely be your main squeeze.

4. Old Quebec, Quebec

   Every Instagram feed should have quaint, old-timey cobblestone streets in them. Indeed, the snowy streets of Old Quebec are incredibly dreamy during the winter months and make a perfectly cozy snap for your Instagram feed to treasure for years to come.

5. Nelson, BC

   What could be more Instagram-worthy than the real-life, Canadian version of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls? Look no further than Nelson, BC. Unless you’re from BC, you’ve likely never heard of it, but it’s an incredibly charming and beautiful place that is reminiscent of the beloved Stars Hollow.

   LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet that is both trendy and functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for making you look extra great in your next Instagram picture. Click here to view our entire selection.

A motorcycle trip isn’t complete unless you look the part, right? Of course, while safety and comfort should be the top priority, you also want to look good while you’re riding. Here are some great menswear tips for your next motorcycle trip.

1. Safety First: Wearing the Right Gear + Preparing for the Weather

   Of course, you have to have the basics covered first. That means wearing a full-face helmet (this will protect you from the elements and provide comfort during warmer weather if it’s ventilated), a solid jacket (not a fashion leather jacket; these are not made to be protective), and a good pair of boots. Next, ensure that you have checked out the weather forecast and that you have packed extra items of clothing to adapt to all weather conditions on your trip.

2. Choose Thin Layers of Clothing

   It’s a better idea to pack a few thin layers of clothing rather than a couple of thick pieces. This will allow you take layers off in the event that the weather gets too hot and make yourself much more comfortable. These lighter items will also be easier to stow away.

3. Rock the LD West Original Holster

   Of course, you want to look great on your motorcycle trip, but you also want to have the important things easily accessible, like your smartphone and wallet. If you need to pull over for directions or you want to stop and take a picture of the scenery, LD West’s original holster—a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet—has you covered. The holster can be worn in any number of wears and is a cool-looking but practical accessory. It comes in leather and in a number of different colours.

4. Opt for A Backpack

   A backpack is a great way to transport lighter items on your motorcycle trip. If you’ve got the right backpack, it can also act as an accessory to your overall look. Keep in mind that your backpack should only be used for lighter items, but since a road trip typically requires more storage, a backpack is a great option. Ensure that all backpack straps are safely out of the way so that they don’t become a hazard while on the road.

Safe driving!

LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet that is both trendy and functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for your next motorcycle trip. Click here to view our entire selection.

Halloween is coming up quickly this year. If you’ve got a Halloween party to attend and need a trendy Halloween costume that will be sure to make an impression, here are three great ideas.

1. Go Political: Donald Trump and/or Hillary Clinton

   Arguably one of the most newsworthy events this past year was the 2016 presidential election in the United States. While some might shy away from political conversations at events, if you’re bold and/or politically-minded and are looking to make a statement, why not dress up like either of the two presidential candidates this past year? If you have a significant other, you can go as both.

   These costumes are sure to be a great conversation starter. The best part is that both costumes can be easy to put together with items you likely already have. For Donald Trump, all you need is a sport’s jacket, a red tie, and a trucker-style hat (and if you've got a blonde wig, even better). For Hilary, a classic pant suit will work.

2. Wonder Woman

   The iconic Wonder Woman finally got her much awaited screen time after 70 years, making it one of the most buzzed about films of the year given all of its female power. If you have a penchant for Wonder Woman or you want to show your support for feminism, Wonder Woman is a great option. It’s a classic Halloween costume and yet is as trendy as ever.

   While there will certainly be ready-made Wonder Woman costumes you can pick up from the store, you can quickly throw together your own homemade version if you have a pair of red tights, heels, a blue skirt, a halter top, and some sort of crown. There have been so many variations of Wonder Woman’s costume over the years that it makes it easy to pull something together from your own closet.

3. Any Character From Game of Thrones

   While you may have to do a little scrounging in order to come up with a Westeros style costume, there is no doubt that Game of Thrones is one of the biggest and most talked about shows on television at the moment, making this costume option a very trendy one.

   LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet that is both trendy and functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for all of your fall events this season. Click here to view our entire selection.

Confidence can be difficult to achieve, especially when it comes to your fashion choices. People today seem to have more pressure than ever to look a certain way. To top it all off, there are also unrealistic expectations of what people should look like. Nevertheless, dressing with confidence can certainly be achieved. It’s simply about knowing what flatters you the most and gravitating toward those choices. Take a look below.

1. Consider Your Shape

   Taking your shape into consideration and playing to your strengths can make a dramatic difference in how clothes look on you (and therefore how you feel in those clothes). When you feel confident in your fashion choices, you tend to act more confidently as a result. When it comes to body shapes, there are different categories, including rectangular, triangular, hourglass, inverted triangle, and round. Determine which shape you are and do your research!

2. Know What Colours Look Good On You

   Colour plays a very important role in how clothes look on you. Depending on your complexion and hair colour, your choice of colour can “wash” you out or, alternatively, give you an extra something. To figure out what colours look best on you, determine your undertone if you don’t already know it.

   One way to determine your undertone is to check the colour of the veins in your wrist. Green veins indicate that you have a warm undertone while blue veins indicate that you have a cool undertone (some people also have a neutral undertone, meaning that they have both green and blue veins in their wrist). In general, however, warm undertones look best in earthy tones like orange, yellow, taupe, and off-white. Cool undertones tend to look best in jewel tones, cool grays, whites, and sea shades.

3. Consider Your Comfort Level

   It may not be the most exciting element to take into consideration, but comfort level is important. Arguably, it is one of the most important tips on this list. If you’re not the most comfortable in heels, don’t wear them.

4. Consider Your Personal Style

   It is always important to consider your personal style. When you dress in a way that reflects your style, you will feel better about yourself, feel more comfortable, and feel more confident as a result.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell-phone holder and a wallet that is as stylish as it is functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for helping you look your best. Click here to view our entire selection.

During fall, your choice of outerwear is an important one. The weather is a lot chillier, so more people will see your coat than anything else. Think of it as your statement piece. With that in mind, here’s how to go about styling your jacket this season, depending on your particular choice of jacket.

Styling a Long Nylon Coat

Lengthy nylon coats are a very wearable trend this season, coming straight from the runway. The ones on the runway had a very trench coat-like feel and were very smart looking. A plus is that they will keep you dry in the rain! Another great thing about the trench coat style is that it’s virtually foolproof. Here are some options:

1. Formal Options

   For more formal affairs, you can pair a nylon coat with a suit and tie or a dress or skirt. Buttoning the coat up and pairing it with an umbrella will make you look like you stepped out of the 1900s (but in a good way).

2. Casual But Chic

   A nylon coat looks just as great with a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt or tee as it does with more formal underwear. For this look, opt for a more casual shoe like a sneaker. You will look effortlessly chic.

Styling A (Faux) Leather Coat

Faux leather coats are another trend this season, not to mention a fall staple. Here’s how to style them.

1. For a Casual, Classic Look

   A leather jacket pairs great with a pair of jeans, a graphic tee, and a pair of sneakers. In fact, it’s a classic style.

2. Black Skinnies and a Pair of Heels

   Leather coats have a reputation of being worn by bikers, but that is not the case. Try pairing a leather coat with black skinnies and a pair of heels. Bet you just changed how you feel about leather coats.

3. A 90s Look

   90s clothes are in right now. If you’re looking for something a little bit different, pair a maxi dress or a velvet mini with a black leather jacket over it.

4. Since leather coats are cropped, opt for a high-waisted pant to create a lean line.
5. Pair your faux leather jacket with other vegan accessories like a vegan backpack. Make a powerful statement.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell-phone holder and a wallet that is as stylish as it is functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories, like a vegan backpack, that is perfect for pairing with your jacket. Click here to view our entire selection.

Leave last season behind and say hello to these five must-have trends for the 2017 fall season, including the most wearable and/or interesting fashion trends coming straight from the runway. Take a look below.

1. The Colour Red is In (Along with Chocolate Brown)

   The colour red has officially been declared the colour of the 2017 fall season. It was all over the runway from Givenchy’s coats to Fendi’s boots. In other words, feel free to incorporate red in any way you wish from head to toe. LD West offers a gorgeous red holster, the perfect red accessory for fall 2017. Another popular colour on the runway this year was chocolate brown, and the results were beautiful. You will have to check it out for yourself.

2. Fishnets

   Fishnets were everywhere on Instagram and fashion designers took note. What’s interesting about this particular trend is that designers styled them in unexpected ways. Sometimes they were paired with a feminine dress while other times they were paired with blazers. Again, the choice is yours.

3. Mid-Length Skirts

   It might not be a trend suitable for lounging (this will become evident in a minute) but all of the major designers, from Christian Dior to Valentino and Victoria Beckham, had them in their collection, which means they are definitely noteworthy. When you think of a mid-length skirt, this trend isn’t it. The ones on the runway were hemmed at the calf and had a lot of bounce at the bottom, but these additions made them a lot more interesting than the usual mid-length skirts.

4. Victorian Collars

   Moving on to a more easily worn trend for this fall, we have victorian-style collars making a statement this season. This is a must-have fashion trend because it’s different and unexpected. By victorian-style collars, think of a more elegant version of the turtleneck.

5. Long Nylon Coats

   Lengthy nylon coats, which can be worn by anyone, are another trend this season. Nylon just so happens to be light and waterproof, making it a very practical choice of outerwear for rainier days. These types of nylon coats were seen at Michor Kors, Stella McCartney, and Celine.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell-phone holder and a wallet that is as stylish as it is functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for the fall season. Click here to view our entire selection.

A new semester is almost in full swing. You are about to meet new people and attend a lot of new events, so naturally you want to look your best. At the same time, you have to plan for those late nights and a tendency to go to class in a pair of pajamas. Good news, students: track suits are very trendy this year!

Here are some style tips that will help you to look your best this semester.

1. Know Your Strengths

   To look your best, you have to know your strengths. Knowing what colours look best on you (the key to this is to figuring out your undertones), dressing for your shape, and dressing in a way that makes you feel comfortable will give you a solid foundation on what to wear.

2. Dress With Your Personal Style in Mind

   It is important that you keep in mind whatever personal style you tend to gravitate toward. When you feel like yourself, you will be more confident, and, as a result, you will look a lot better than if you tried to wear something that wasn’t "you."

3. Be Realistic; Master the Comfortable Yet Stylish Look

   Despite your best intentions, there are going to be a lot of days where you don’t feel like putting in a lot of effort. This makes sense; you have a lot on your plate! When thinking about what items to fill your closet, aim for comfortable, easy-to-wear options that are still cool. For example, have some great sweaters to choose from, a great pair of jeans, some fitted t-shirts, and one great jacket (like a jean or faux leather jacket). Smaller details like a scarf, sunglasses, or red lipstick can make you seem effortlessly polished. This tip will help you look great all semester long and not just on special occasions.

4. Plan For Your Worst Days

   As mentioned above, there are going to be a lot of times when you’ve just pulled an all-nighter, are short on time, and have to rush to class. Set out an outfit each week that you can wear on those days. Make it something that you can throw on quickly but that looks effortless.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell-phone holder and a wallet that is as stylish as it is functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for helping you look your best this semester. Click here to view our entire selection.

Instagram is a great social tool to allow you to show off your best self. Through exciting selfies and photos, you can let your friends and family know what you’re up to and how you’re doing. Researchers at the University of Toronto have actually come up with an algorithm that shows what styles and accessories get the most likes and comments on Instagram. According to the U of T researchers, a combination of background, accessories, formal and casual wear creates the ideal Instragram photo.

If you’re not sure where to start to get that perfect pic, try one of these seven accessories and stand out on Instagram.

• Bold statement necklaces: Make a statement with this bold accessory. When it comes to necklaces, everything from vintage baubles to costume-style jewelry is fair game. Gold, silver, rose gold—whatever the colour of your statement necklace, the bigger the better.
• Oversized bag: Like the statement necklace you’re going to wear, your bag should also be big and bold. Oversized bags get noticed on Instagram even if they’re not of the designer variety.
• Red lips: Lipstick is an accessory that many people take for granted, but it can actually make or break your photo. Red lips are classic and will take any outfit to the next level. Find the shade of red that best works for your complexion and give your lips a kiss of rouge to enhance your next Instagram pic.
• Sunglasses: Ask any Instagram fashionista the accessory they rely on the most and they’ll tell you it’s sunglasses. Sunnies are versatile, and unless you are taking your pics outside in the middle of the night, you should wear a pair to complement your outfit.
• Anything pastel: For some reason, pastel accessories, no matter what they are, turn Instagram aflutter. Pastels are soft on the eyes and easy to see, which may contribute to why they’re beloved.
• High boots: Knee- and calf-high boots are an accessory that the Instagram community can’t seem to get enough of. Try pairing high boots with a short dress or skirt and you’ll really get people praising your pics.
• Seasonal accessories: Dress for the season and get more likes. In the winter, try a scarf and glove combo with your outfit. Or try a fur neckwarmer to complement your ensemble. In the summer, ditch the scarf and gloves and opt for sunglasses, which you’ll already be wearing (see #5).

You can mix and match any of the above accessories, but don’t go overboard. Keep it to 2-3; otherwise you won’t stand out on Instagram—you’ll fade into the background.

If you have a black-tie event to attend, you may be wondering exactly what to wear. You probably have an idea in your head of how black-tie events work and what the proper attire is from pop culture, but before you rush out and buy a tux or evening gown, check out our Style Series below.

How to dress for a black-tie event

The basics:

• Daytime events are less formal than evening events
• Dark colours are more appropriate for winter events
• Don’t be afraid to wear black
• The venue will help dictate your attire (indoors vs. outdoors)
• The type of event (wedding, work function, etc.) will also help you decide what to wear

Black-tie for women

It starts with the dress. The length can be determined by the weather. Winter black-tie events call for long evening gowns, while summer allows for more leeway. A trend from a few years ago that isn't going away anytime soon is sequins. Long or short, a sequinned dress will turn heads at your black-tie event.

Moving on to jewelry, you'll need to bring out your best pieces. Keep it simple with earrings, one bracelet and an understated necklace. If you are going to wear costume or fake jewelry, make sure it looks real.

Now that you've found your dress and jewelry, choose a small purse and a pair of shoes. Your clutch shouldn't be flashy and must match your shoes. Avoid chunky shoes with high heels that are impossible to walk in. Try something strappy with a dainty heel.

Black-tie for men

Sorry, guys, you can’t simply throw on a tuxedo—there are rules. Your tux should be made of black wool, and the jacket and pants should be part of the same set or at least match. There are two styles of jacket you can try: single- or double-breasted. Generally, black-tie events call for single-breasted jackets with one button and pockets that do not have flaps covering them. Your pants should have a stripe on the outside. This stripe must match the lapel of your jacket. Also, no cuffs. In terms of colour, black is the way to go. However, a dark blue tuxedo can be worn as long as you don’t clash with your date. White tuxedos are considered formal attire, but they are not commonly worn in this day and age.

Now onto your shirt. White and black are the only colours you can get away with at a black-tie event. You will need a waist covering as well. This can be a vest, cumberbund or low waistcoat. Add a black bowtie and you’re almost ready to go.

Finally, round out your ensemble with a pair of polished dress shoes. If your shoes aren’t shined and they're covered in scuffs, don’t bother wearing them.

Now that you've picked the perfect outfit, go out and enjoy the black-tie event.

It seems like just yesterday you were soaking up the sun enjoying your freedom from teachers, reading lists and algebra. Those days of leisure are over because it’s back to school time already. Get your education in style with these 10 trending accessories that’ll show everyone how fashion-forward you are.

1. Bright floral backpack: Florals are in and they are bright. A bright floral backpack is the perfect accessory to get you back into the groove of school. Throw out your old plain-coloured bag and get something that looks like it came straight out of the botanical gardens.
2. Chokers: Chokers were big in the 90s, and now they’re back with a vengeance. Try a classic black velvet choker if you’re not that adventurous. For those who like to make a statement, see #10 and opt for a fur choker.
3. Chunky necklaces with charms: Talismanic necklaces are in this season, and there’s no better place to wear one than at school. Charms, shells, letters - if it’s big, put it around your neck.
4. Kimonos: Who needs a jacket when you’ve got a kimono as a cover-up? Kimonos, especially those in bright floral prints (see #1), are an accessory you can’t do without this school season.
5. Bold sunglasses: Go big with your sunglasses or go home. Bold sunglasses are a must-have accessory for back-to-school.
6. Itsy bitsy bags: Boring cell cases won't cut it anymore. Get yourself a tiny bag that has just enough room for your phone. Wristlets, holsters and tiny purses are the new cell phone cases.
7. Watches: Sure, you can tell the time on your phone, but why not dress up your wrist with a funky watch? Watches are back in style, and we’re not talking about the techy kind. Opt for something that shows off your personality instead of something that looks like an Apple watch. Instead, try a vintage watch with a little character.
8. Hats: Hats never really go out of style, but we’re not talking about a ratty old baseball cap that you’ve had forever. All the big designers (Gucci, Saint Laurent, etc.) are featuring newsboy caps and sou’westers in their collections, so you might as well jump on this trend.
9. Large dangly earrings: Statement earrings are ready to grace your ears this school year. Adorn your ears with dangly gems that reach beyond your collarbone.
10. A touch of fur: You don’t need to invest in a fur coat, but fur straps, bracelets and belts are all the rage. Keep yourself warm and fuzzy by adding a touch of fur to your outfit.

No matter which accessories you wear, remember to obey your school’s dress code. The last thing you need is detention for looking too good.

Thinking of taking a road trip? Ontario offers beautiful scenery, beaches and more nature than you can shake a stick at. Pack a bag (LD WEST makes the perfect bag for hiking and traveling in style), stock up on snacks, jump in your car and head to any of these 10 best summer road trip destinations.

1. Thousand Islands: There actually are 1,864 islands in this region, and there are over 1,000 things to do. The Thousand Islands region has boating, a casino, a theatre, and fishing, and it lies on the border of New York State, so bring your passport and pop over to the U.S. for dinner.
2. Niagara-on-the-Lake: For the wine fans, Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to some of Canada’s premier wineries. Take a wine tour and sample the fruits the area has to offer. Check out the Shaw Festival and the Fort George National Historic Site while you take in the picturesque scenery the area provides.
3. Sandbanks Provincial Park: In Prince Edward County you’ll find the world’s largest freshwater sand bar and dune beach. Yes, it’s Lake Ontario, but you’ll think you’re stepping onto a beach in the Caribbean. Bring your dog too since this provincial park is pet friendly. Let’s hope your little buddy behaves in the car on the way there.
4. Algonquin Provincial Park: For the campers, Algonquin Provincial Park is the place to set up your tent. Considered the border between Southern and Northern Ontario, this park will take your breath away while you hike, swim, relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
5. Elora Gorge: On the outskirts of Guelph you’ll find Elora Gorge. The popular attraction sits on the Grand River and offers camping, tubing, fishing, hiking, canoeing and an old-style “swimming hole” where you can backstroke while gazing up at clear blue skies.
6. Point Pelee National Park: Bird watchers come from all over to see the majestic feathered beasts that soar above Point Pelee National Park. But if birds aren’t your thing, there’s a beach and trails, and the ferry to Pelee Island will take you to a winery that’s like no other.
7. Flowerpot Island: Two giant rock pillars that resemble flowerpots jut out from the shores of this quaint island. You can swim, boat and look for buried treasure because this area is known as the Shipwreck Diving Capital of Canada.
8. Bruce Peninsula National Park: Bruce Peninsula National Park has many gems, but a quick hike through the park will take you to the turquoise waters of Cyprus Lake Grotto, one of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever lay eyes on.
9. Scenic Caves of Collingwood: Although it’s known as a ski area, Collingwood is home to the longest suspension bridge in Southern Ontario and scenic caves. You can zipline or explore the caves on foot. Plus, there are some caves that are so deep that they’re icy even in the summer.
10. Muskoka: Cottage country doesn’t get much more relaxing than Muskoka. Rent a cottage or stay the night at one of the many campgrounds that line the warm lake waters. Take a dip, tan and enjoy a cold one while you marvel at how gorgeous Ontario truly is.