HAUTE HIPPIE (New York) Lace-up Shirtdress

Shirtdresses are this season's have-to-have and this silky one from NYC label Haute Hippie also boasts a flattering high-low hem and skinny laces woven through gunmetal grommets. Wear with flats for a relaxed day look or pair with ankle-strap heels for a night out partying.

(RRP US$495)

ROYAL ELASTICS (Australia/USA) Slip-On Laced-Up Dress Shoe

Successfully diversifying beyond the classic elastic sneakers that initially dominated its lineup, Royal Elastics has introduced a positively fashion-forward -- but still of the slip-on design! -- dress shoe in high-grade distressed and antiqued leather or elegant buffed nubuck leather.
Elasticated laces and hidden elastic panels on the canvas inner sock further make for the easy slip-on, slip-off function.
Wear it casual or just a tad dressy, this shoe doesn’t waste time and looks simply amazing!


ROYAL ELASTICS
In 1997, fresh from the success of producing disco parties in Sydney, 20-year-old Tull Price and pal Rodney Adler decided to start their own streetwear shoe line. At the time of its launch, Royal Elastics was characterised by comfortable shoes that could be put on and removed shoes swiftly using elastics. Under the slogan “no time for laces”, Royal Elastics carried out strategies that met with great acceptance from active youth, particularly in the music and art industries. Today Royal Elastics is based in Los Angeles, and Price and Adler, who have gone on to work on their new luxury sneaker line FELT (previously posted here). And despite rocky times plaguing the fashion trade, Royal Elastics has, under its new EVP and chief creative director John Bondoc, victoriously survived several changes and uncertainty, prevailing as one of the most innovative brands around.

GIVENCHY Lace-Up Silk Blouse

Givenchy, the famous Parisian fashion house once associated with Audrey Hepburn and 1950s romcoms such as 'Roman Holiday', dances to a different beat in the 21st century. For his 2011 RTW collection, creative director Riccardo Tisci cited as one of his inspirations the artist Frida Kahlo and Mexico’s Day of the Dead to create pieces for strong women with an intense romantic streak.
With its billowiness and elegance, this blouse design from Givenchy is perfect for day or night, and easily dressed up or down for any occasion. We’re especially crushing on the lavish laced-up sleeves - it’s a detail we’ve rarely seen from other designers, and definitely sets this stunning piece apart from others of its kind.
(RRP US$475 or €263)

SEBAGO Shoes (USA)

For more than 60 years, the New England-based shoe maker Sebago has been building their reputation for handsewn construction, fine detail, and all-American style. First selling only classic handsewn penny loafers, Sebago now offers all kinds of shoes we love -- from Docksides (their iconic version of the boat shoe) to tasseled loafers to even stylish high-tops -- while still keeping their traditional “up east” aesthetic and quality.
Like so many good things, Sebago has been acquired by a larger company, joining the huge Wolverine World Wide Inc. in 2005.

• Sebago Sussex Tassel Loafer
For a little dash of class and flair, slip into this. The handsewn, positive fit, genuine moccasin construction, the three-quarter leather sock lining, the forefoot EVA cushion, and the Littleway Stitched Vribram rubber slip-resistant sole -- this tasseled loafer is textbook shoe craftsmanship.
• Sebago Salem Oxford
It's not every day you find a work-appropriate shoe that's also kind to your foot. That's why this Sebago laced-up oxford deserves a spot in your repertoire. The full length leather-covered footbed sits atop a Vibram rubber Pluribal slip-resistant sole that lets you stride in total comfort and confidence.

The Sebago Cayman flat strap penny loafers and signature Fedora worn by pop icon, Michael Jackson at his ground breaking Madison Square Garden concert in September 2001 was sold at auction on December 16, 2009. The shoes that are each inscribed with the words 'Rock My World Billie Jean' on the sole went under the hammer at Bonham’s Auction House in London. After a fierce bidding war, the lot went for a staggering sum of US$37,343 to an unknown bidder.


Taking timeless classics to a timely revamp, Sebago has been partnering up with influential trendsetters -- French clothing/music collective Cool Cats, shoe designer Ronnie Fieg, graffiti artist STASH, among others -- for exciting collaborations.

TRETORN Klippor Hiking Boots

Offering hearty ankle support & the rugged style of a casual hiking boot, Tretorn's high-lacing "Klippor" caught the eye of influential men's style blogs today. Come check them out :-)

ALICE + OLIVIA Leather Insert Shift Dress

Leather dresses, a big trend for autumn, always give you an instant high fashion look. This Alice + Olivia piece features an edgy centre leather panel on the front, but the real scene-stealing element is the tantalising lace-up back. Welcome to va-va-voom!