Snuggle up in style this fall and winter with chunky knits and fuzzy sweaters. This season is all about unique shapes, bold details and a touch of retro. Personally, I am craving 90s grunge-inspired sweaters à la Alexander Wang – loose knits, slashed sleeves and holes galore. Add these killer sweaters to your fall wish list:

1. Who knew that faux fur could feel so luxurious? Not to mention that the look is so on trend for fall. Motel Polar Fuzz Cardi ($110), available at NASTY GAL.
2. A unique cut and bold details give a simple black cardigan a modern twist. Jan Ahlgren Tassel Cardigan ($364), at OAK NYC.
3. The sweater coat is the ultimate must-have item of the season. TNA Sweater Coat ($165), available at Aritzia.
4. A knitted sweater vest is a versatile piece that compliments an array of looks. IMPROVD Cross Front Knit Cardi ($275), available at Revolve Clothing.
5. Pom poms, braided knits and unconventional elements give your ensemble a cool retro feel. ASOS Premium Twist Yarn Pom Pom Sweater ($68), at ASOS.
6. Bell sleeves and oversized shapes are great for layering. Pair this style with a long sleeve blouse and slim bottoms to balance out the look. Zara Oversized Two-Tone Jacquard Jacket ($95.90), at Zara.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

Sometimes the rubber flip-flops just won’t cut it. One of my besties has vowed to “never wear rubber flip-flops in public” (did I mention that she happens to also be a shoe buyer?). And she certainly has a point: when it comes time for fun in the sun, it’s always nice to have a few different options for summertime sandals. This year’s top looks combine different textures, architectural shapes, embellishment, and luxe detailing. The great thing about picking up a pair right now is that summer markdowns are finally hitting the stores. Now if only the sun could stick around for little while longer….

1. An all-around flat sandal is a practical addition to your footwear collection. The elastic stretch material on these babies are super comfy and the style is classic. Michael Kors Pressley Toe Ring Sandal ($120), available at Michael Kors Boutiques nationwide and Browns Shoes.
2. The cutout sandal is the perfect modern touch for any summertime ensemble. Deena & Ozzy Canvas Cutout Sandal ($38), from Urban Outfitters.
3. Wedges are the “it” shoe of the year. Jeffrey Campbell Black Ninja Wedge ($185), available online at Oak NYC.
4. A beautifully constructed sandal is the ultimate summer essential. I am madly in love with these clog-style, leather wrapped wooden heels. Fluevog Rahab Faiths ($219). Available at John Fluevog stores nationwide.
5. If you must go the flip-flop route, choose a pair that is made out of different materials or added embellishment. This will elevate your look, and more appropriate for everyday wear. Bravo Browns Leather Flip-Flops ($54), at Browns Shoes.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

Shop until you drop! Doing this is not impossible, and I know this because I’ve done it myself. Those brightly coloured ads with bold red letters reading “DESIGNER BLOWOUT SALE” have led to late night sprees, resulting in a shopping hangover. At the very least, my job in fashion writing has afforded me the ability to justify this habit as “research.” It’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it.

Here are just a few of my picks for best online retailers:

1. SHOPSTYLE is essentially the fashion equivalent to Google. Type in an item that you want (like “pants”), and voilà – you get a wide array of styles from a variety of online retailers. Try out these Tony Cohen Silk Print Pants ($334) from Shopbop.com, via SHOPSTYLE.

2. SSENSE is a Montreal-based online shop that features the coolest designers from runway and streetwear. One of the best things about this shop is free shipping in Canada. I’m wishing for a vintage Chanel diamond tassel bag ($3525) – a girl can dream right?

3. NET-A-PORTER was created as one of the first of it’s kind. This retailer doubles as an online magazine and features top runway looks from Vince to Valentino. One of their new arrivals includes killer footwear from Alaia ($1805).

4. LUISA VIA ROMA is one of Florence, Italy’s best. Not only do they ship worldwide, but they offer designer looks straight from the runway. The shop has also been known to collaborate with high fashion designers for exclusive pieces. One of the latest collaborations featured an androgynous t-shirt designed by Gareth Pugh ($231).

5. OAK NYC boasts its own private label in addition to a variety of uber-cool brands, like Alexander Wang, Surface To Air and Kai-aakmann. You can even shop from editorial spreads and videos created by the retailer. I am in love with this mesh poncho by the Oak Black Label ($178) – a great spring/summer look!

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver