Seeking inspiration for spring 2011, Danish company Ecco dug deep into its archives and brought back a bestseller from the 1970s. The Joke ($160 to $175), originally launched in 1978, is a comfy and colourful unisex walking shoe available in several tones: lava, mustard, retro blue and coffee.
These heavy-duty boots can be found at Inventory in Gastown
These boots were made for walking…and hiking, biking and hunting. Viberg Boot Co. has been handcrafting steel-toe, motorcycle, cowboy and work boots since 1970. Recently, the ever-growing trend of wearing heavy-duty shoes for fashion-only purposes has led to a massive following in Japan, Hong Kong and Europe. Coming soon: online shopping at www.viberg.com. Till then, find them at Inventory.—Jennifer Patterson
One of 2011's hottest bags is by Michael Kors
Fashion label Michael Kors just opened its first downtown location at bustling Pacific Centre. The timing couldn’t be more perfect, as the spring and summer lines are already on shelves. A taste of what’s in store: candy-coloured shoes, beautiful maxi dresses and leather-that-looks-like-denim handbags (pictured).—Jennifer Patterson
Converse and Marimekko have teamed up to create some sweet kicks
Marimekko + Converse = a match made in fashion heaven. The iconic Finnish design house collaborated with the equally iconic shoemaker to release a spring line of too-cool shoes (pictured, $80), aptly titled Converse ♥ Marimekko. Finland’s pride and joy started in the 1950s and reached royalty status in North America after Jackie Kennedy wore a number of their dresses during the 1960 US presidential campaign. Now everything from dishware to bedding has been emblazoned with their graphic prints. The American footwear company Converse was founded in 1908, and celebs and athletes continue to sport the classic star-adorned Chuck Taylors. Purchase a pair at Marimekko.—Jennifer Patterson
Perhaps if Dr. Seuss had known about these kicks he might’ve renamed a few of his iconic stories: Horton Wears a Shoe? Or How the Grinch Stole the High Tops? Converse presents a limited edition of their famed footwear for pint-sized fans, such as the Cindy Lou Who ($45 to $50), available at Get Outside.
Support breast cancer research when you buy these clogs from Alegria
Pin on a pink ribbon this month. Alegria’s heart-patterned clogs (pictured, $119.99) are available at Ronsons and a portion of sales benefit ReThink Breast Cancer. Sephora donates $1 from the sale of each Sephora Collection Pink Product to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. And just for the fun of it: the Lovely Jubblies breast cream ($24.95) from Lush—it’ll keep your blouse bunnies looking their best.—Jennifer Patterson
Cute and comfy clogs by Okabashi
Whether you plan to stroll around Stanley Park or hit Robson Street for a day of shopping, don a pair of Okabashi clogs to ensure happy feet. These waterproof, anti-slip, antimicrobial, odour-resistant clogs have a massaging insole that prevents foot and back pain. And when they need cleaning, just toss them in the dishwasher. Available for men and women in red, yellow, olive, brown and black at Zellers ($19.99).—Sheri Radford
Cute, classy and eco-friendly sandals from De la Rue Shoes
Thanks to De la Rue Shoes, recycling has never looked so good. Recycled, you ask? Yup, these stylish designed-in-Vancouver slip-ons have a sturdy base made from reclaimed rubber tires, which makes them long-lasting, eco-friendly and more than just a lil’ unique. Keep it classy in silver (pictured, $120) or have fun with your summer style and take the rainbow-coloured ones for a spin. Purchase a pair at Eugene Choo or The Block, or buy online at www.delarueshoes.com.—Jennifer Patterson
Spice up the season with these preppy and practical loafers from SWIMS ($175), available at Harry Rosen. Seafaring men and their land-locked brethren are sure to make a splash with this versatile summer classic from the Norwegian brand. These waterproof shoes are made with a natural rubber and feature a hand-sewn anti-bacterial mesh lining for proper ventilation; non-slip, non-marking soles mean they’re perfect for skipping a boat or toting about town. Bright accent colours and a streamlined silhouette make this a no-fuss choice for the season.
The well-heeled head to Ingledews for fashion-forward footwear
Local favourite Ingledew’s is having a birthday—a 95th birthday to be exact—so head on over and help them celebrate almost a century of stylish shoes.—Jennifer Patterson
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