Give Minnie Mouse a run for her money by making polka dots your pattern of choice. The hottest new trend was seen all over the fall 2011 runways, from Marc Jacobs to Gucci to Vena Cava. Adopt the look early by incorporating it into your summer wardrobe with sheer blouses, breezy sundresses and killer platform sandals. Contrast the look with clean shapes, solid brights and denim for a look that is spot on (pun-intended!).

1. Style inspiration from Marc Jacobs Fall 2011 RTW. Photo courtesy of Style.com.
2. Open back polka dot dress ($136), available at Pixie Market.
3. Wolford polka dot tights ($62), at Net-A-Porter.
4. Zara blouse ($39.90).
5. Alice + Olivia flutter shorts ($99), available at Shopbop.
6. Dimepiece Designs collar ($40).
7. Jeffrey Campbell platform sandals ($119.95), at Solestruck.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

You should follow me on Twitter @valerietiu .

Want to work in fashion? Visit fashion career website for Canada Style Nine to Five.

My need to teeter on heels on a daily basis has led to a truly unhealthy obsession. In fact, I have toes that rival a ballerina dancers’. Thankfully, I can give my poor feet a break with the season’s latest “it” shoe: the loafer. The 2011 variations pack some serious punch with high fashion style, versatility, and of course, comfort. Pair loafers with everything from trousers and shorts to flirty dresses and drapey silhouettes. Check out a few of my favourite loafers for spring:

1. Go for an androgynous look with a classic loafer in a menswear-inspired shape with a touch of hardware. Stuart Weitzman loafers ($345), available at Browns Shoes.
2. Look for fun prints and tassel details for a unique look. My pick are these animal print moccasins from Zara ($39.99).
3, 4. Bright coloured loafers are a great way to add a pop of colour to your ensemble. Dolce Vita Marcela ($64.95) and Jeffrey Campbell Dunsmore ($124.95), available at Solestruck.
5, 6. Unique features like perforations and textured materials create a look that is spring and summer friendly. Aldo Eda penny loafers ($80) and New Kid Laser Cut Loafers ($149), from Urban Outfitters.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

You should follow me on Twitter @valerietiu.

Pink Tartan
Tuesday, October 19 at 6:00 p.m.

The better half of the Newport-Mimran clan never fails to show an elegant yet wearable collection.  We’re hoping she’ll keep up the Pink Tartan tradition of being the top collection of the week.

THOMAS
Thursday, October 20 at 6:00 p.m.

Last spring, Michael and Drew Thomas held their show at the Clint Roenisch Gallery.  Models, many seemingly too thin for their androgynous ensembles, strutted down antique hardwood floors in Jeffrey Campbell wedges while the city’s it girls and boys crowded in along the sidelines. This show only promises to be even bigger and better.

Amanda Lew Kee
Friday, October 22 at 6:00 p.m.

Making her debut at LG Fashion Week, Toronto’s newest, blue lip-est fashion darling is no stranger to ChristieLohr.com, having been featured last month.  We love her daring noir designs and hope to see more edgy sophistication for next season.

There’s not much that gets Toronto fashionistas buzzing like LG Fashion Week.  Love it or hate it, the week-long festivities are a great showcase for Canadian design.  Since things can get pretty hectic down at Exhibition Place, we’ve sorted through the schedule to bring you our top three must-see shows for Spring/Summer 2011.

Visit www.lgfashionweek.ca to purchase tickets or stream the shows live.

Purchase Tickets: http://www.lgfashionweek.ca/Register.aspx
Stream: http://www.lgfashionweek.ca/LiveVideo.aspx

By: Caitlin Agnew, Toronto

Chose metallics, sequins, bows or rhinestones to make a statement this holiday in these killer stilettos.

From left to right, top bottom – Aldo, Aldo, Spring, Michael Kors (Browns), Bebe, Chinese Laundry (Town Shoes), H&M, Guess, Jeffrey Campbell (Browns), H&M