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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.