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A summer trip to the beach is undoubtedly on your summer itinerary this year, but although everything at the beach is carefree and simple, choosing what to wear is not always easy. Here is your guide to dressing for the beach.

• Outfit Options:
  When it comes to outfit options for the beach, there are surprisingly a lot of options. For women, classic options are long skirts paired with your bathing suit top or jean shorts paired with your bathing suit top. Feel free to wear a crop top over your bathing suit top as well. Another classic option is to wear a wrap over your bathing suit, acting as a skirt.
  
  You can also opt for a light linen dress, long or short - it’s up to you! When it comes to dressing for the beach, fabrics are key. You want to opt for casual fabrics like linens to nail that carefree vibe.
  
  For a more of a boho look, you could even go with linen palazzo trousers, pants that flare out at the bottom for that perfect carefree summer vibe. Another option is to just rock the classic cover-up (lace cover-ups are particularly beautiful!) right over your bathing suit of choice.
  
  As for beach-appropriate menswear, you can opt for khaki shorts or cropped pants on the bottom, paired with a light, linen collared t-shirt or even a muscle-style shirt if you’re partial to that particular look.
• Kimonos
  There will be times during the day where you may want a little more protection on top, including on your way to the actual beach and perhaps when you’re walking up and down it. A kimono is a perfect option.
• Footwear Options
  Aside from a classic pair of flip flops, other beach appropriate footwear include barefoot sandals, wedges or a classic pair of strappy sandals.
• A Bag
  A day at the beach requires a lot of essentials, from sunscreen to water to snacks. Naturally, a bag is key. Replace your purse with a classic beach bag, a boho shoulder bag, or a backpack.
• Accessories Are Key
  Use accessories like a great pair of sunglasses and a hat (a classic sun hat or a ball cap, for example) to complete your outfit and protect you from the sun. You should also think about where you will keep our mobile phone, because you will undoubtedly want to take that perfect Insta-worthy beach snap.

A classic white tee is a staple in everyone’s wardrobe, transcending both time and seasons. The white tee is highly versatile and can be accessorized in any of number of ways to reflect your personal style. Here are a number of individual options and a few different style combinations.

1. With a Single Long Necklace
   If you prefer simplicity with your fashion choices but are in search of something a little extra to elevate your look, a long, dainty necklace is the perfect option while still keeping things on the minimal side.
2. With a 90s-Style Choker Necklace
   90s-style choker necklaces are back on trend and are another great option for accessorizing a white T-shirt. They add a bit of edge while lengthening your neck!
3. With Sunglasses and a Pair of Studs
   For a more casual way to accessorize a classic white tee, putting in a pair of studs and throwing shades on may not seem like much, but it can definitely be a statement with something like a classic white tee.
4. With a Blazer
   The blazer and T-shirt combination looks effortlessly cool on both men and women alike, but provides structure. This combination is great for most office settings. Complete this more business casual look with a chunky watch.
5. Layered Jewellery
   You can layer everything from your necklaces to bracelets to rings. Stack brackets on top of each other. If you prefer this chunky, textured look and a little bit of edge, the white T-shirt provides the perfect canvas.
6. With a Fringed Bag + Wide-Brimmed Hat
   For a more boho look, accessorizing a white tee with a fringed bag and a wide-brimmed hat accomplishes the look that you’re going for.
7. With Sneakers + Baseball Cap
   For another more casual, sporty look, great for weekends, accessorize your classic white tee with a baseball cap and a pair of sneakers.
8. With the Most Original Holster
   LD West designed the most original holster yet, part cell-phone holder and part wallet. It can be worn in a number of ways, including cross-body and over your shoulders. It makes a statement on any colour of tee.
9. Scarves
   Scarves come in every colour under the sun and in a range of patterns, perfect for adding a pop of colour to a basic white tee. Need a touch of elegance in a pinch? Grab a scarf.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster, part cell-phone holder and part wallet. We also offer a variety of other accessories. Click here to view our entire selection.

The bachelor party is one of the most memorable events in a man’s life. Here is how to make the night a success.

• The Logistics: A Great Guest List
  Usually, getting a group of guys together usually means that they are bound to have fun, provided that there is no former beef. Also keep your guest list on the smaller size to avoid running into trouble with reservations, etc.The ideal guest list is around ten people.
• Choose the Main Event With the Groom in Mind
  While bachelor parties in times past might have been a little more wild in nature, the new trend today is bonding over classic male activities that could even be extended over a weekend. Consider, however, that the main event should always be selected around the groom’s hobbies. In fact, take this a step further and get his specific input on what he’d like.
  
  Here are some options: a weekend in the woods or a high-adrenalin activity like whitewater rafting. Alternatively, you could go gambling and play a round of golf, followed by a nice dinner. If it’s in the budget, you could take a road trip somewhere. Ultimately, your choice of activities will influence your choice of venue.
• The Essentials of a Great Bachelor Party
  Once you have your activities and venue selected, you will want to think about the smaller details that are essential to any great bachelor party. Ensure that you have a lot of great food and drink options available.
• Add in Challenges
  Have fun with the bachelor if he’s the type to enjoy those classic bachelor party shenanigans. Another great idea to keep the party continually interesting is to have challenges (or dares) that the groom has to do at various intervals.
• Take It to the Next Level
  Consider renting a limo; not only does this take the night up a notch, but it also ensures that everyone will get from point A to point B safely. Another nice touch is to have a couple of people toast to the groom throughout the evening or even share a memorable time they had with the bachelor.
• Avoid These Mistakes
  Planning is key to any great event. Have the groom go over the guest list and ensure that you have ironed out all of the important details. Finally, a great bachelor party can only be great if your guests avoid the emergency room. Always have the safety of your guests in mind.
• Get Him the Perfect Gift
  To top off the bachelor party, you will want to consider getting the bachelor a gift - something to remember the night. The groom will truly appreciate it. It can be something small. Some great options are a wallet, a zipper pouch or a snapback hat.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster, part cell-phone holder and part wallet, a perfect bachelor party gift. We also offer a variety of other accessories that also make great options. Click here to view our entire selection.

The season of musical festivals has arrived. That means it’s time to start thinking about what to wear (flower crowns not included this time - sunglasses are also a given!)

1. A Backpack
   Backpacks not only make great accessories to any outfit, but they are also equally practical, especially at musical festivals, where you have to carry a lot with you. Add a lock to it for extra protection.
2. A Cell Phone Holster
   There is nothing worse than losing your cell phone. Unfortunately, it can happen all too easily at musical festivals with all of the hustle and bustle. LD West’s original cell phone holster has straps, making it a stylish way to keep your cell phone close to you at all times, while also allowing you to go hands-free at the festival. It comes in a variety of colours and even floral print.
3. A Snapback Cap
   Why not swap your flower crown for a snapback cap for a day? They are different than the standard flower crown, both sporty and cool. Better yet, they will also protect your face from the sun (bonus: they are also great for those days when the lines for the shower are too long).
4. Jewellery Pieces
   Jewellery is a must-have music festival staple, even if you’re not much of a jewellery person. While we don’t suggest you bust out your best diamonds for a people-heavy event like a music festival, you should definitely bring along your more affordable pieces to take your outfits to the next level. Whether you opt for the textured look by layering your bracelets and necklaces, or you go for a single choker necklace or perhaps a dainty necklace, jewellery is a must, especially in your quest to achieve that bohemian look that’s always so popular at musical festivals.
5. Scarves
   Scarves have a free-spirited way about them while also being practical. They work with virtually any style. Use them as a style accessory in any number of ways or drape them over your shoulder when nights get chilly.
6. All of the Non-Fashion-Related Accessories
   While you certainly want to look great at a musical festival, you also don’t want to forget the practical accessories either. Every music festival survival kit should include a water bottle, dry shampoo, a picnic blanket, a portable battery charger and some face wipe to take care of that shine!

LD West is the brand behind the original holster. We also offer a variety of essential music festival accessories. Click here to view our entire selection.

Outdoor summer parties are on the horizon. With that, the question becomes, what to wear? Here are the staples of every outdoor summer party and a few additional options to choose from.

• The Main Outfit: Your Options
  For women, rompers are known as the fuss-free and yet playful outfit choice, making them a great option for the a wide range of summer parties, from pool parties, picnics, and festivals to concerts and backyard BBQs. Feel free to dress up the romper with your footwear. Alternatively, you could also go with a classic summer dress for more formal events. Printed dresses are a great option for engagement parties.
  
  For men, a light patterned dress shirt is an outdoor summer party staple. Go for a 100% white cotton dress shirt with a pattern as they work well in both social and business settings. Pair with khakis.
• A Summer Jacket
  Summer evenings can be a bit chilly, so be sure to bring a summer jacket with you. Blazers pair well with rompers for a bit more formality; you could also opt for a classic jean jacket or a simple cardigan. For men, both sport jackets and blazers make good options.
• Comfortable Footwear
  Summer parties can last well into the night; ensure that your choice of footwear is comfortable. For both men and women, summer is the time to wear slip-on shoes. Loafers are a great option and are also a bit more dressy. For women looking to wear heels, espadrille wedges provide comfort while being a pretty, summery footwear option. Strappy sandals are also a classic footwear option for more formal events (think: engagement parties).
• Accessories
  Sunglasses are key at any outdoor summer party.
  
  For a more formal outdoor party, men can also complete their outfit with a tie.
• A Hat
  While a hat isn’t necessarily a staple at an outdoor summer party, you might want to consider wearing one for a couple of reasons. First of all, they are chic while at the same time protecting your face from the sun, which is imperative if you’re attending a party during the day. Fedoras are a great option.
• A Summer Bag
  While you don’t want to be weighed down by an oversized bag or purse, some sort of bag is still necessary. Depending upon the beat, summery options include cross-body bags (great for more public parties as someone won’t be able to steal your bag from you), backpacks and clutches.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster, part cell-phone holder and part wallet. We also offer a variety of other accessories perfect for an outdoor summer party. Click here to view our entire selection.

Staying true to the title, here are five restaurants you need to visit in Toronto.

1. Alo - 163 Spadina Ave.

   Not only did Alo make the number one spot on TripAdvisor’s list of restaurants in Toronto, but it also took the number one spot in the most recent edition of Canada’s Best 100 Restaurants, too. Serving the most spectacular European/French food with vegetarian and gluten-free options, the restaurant has people raving not only about the impeccable food but also the professional, top-notch service that makes dining here an experience you won’t forget.

   The only downside is that since so many people also want to dine here, a reservation may be more than a little difficult to secure. Of course, you can take a seat at their bar in the meantime.

2. Richmond Station - 1 Richmond St. West

   An interesting tidbit about this restaurant is that it’s co-owned by the winner of Canada’s Top Chef. However, it also comes highly recommended across the board, placing third on TripAdvisor’s list of restaurants. You can order virtually any kind of cuisine you care for, with some proclaiming that this place offers the best burger in Toronto. You will be hard-pressed to read a negative review about Richmond Station.

3. Canoe Restaurant & Bar - 66 Wellington St. W

   With a focus on Canadian fare (but also offering international, vegetarian and vegan options), this restaurant has it all. It also happens to be one of Toronto’s most iconic restaurants, which definitely makes it worthy of a visit. Like others on this list, this place is ranked among the best.

4. Edulis - 169 Niagara St.

   Edulis came in 5th place on Canada’s 100 Best list, the second best restaurant in Toronto, which means that it’s worth a try. Offering Canadian fare, this quaint restaurant has excellent-tasting food that is beautifully presented, with excellent wine to top it all off.

5. The Hogtown Vegan - 1056 Bloor St. West

   Don’t think that vegans can’t enjoy all of those classic comfort foods you know and love. The Hogtown Vegan has them all - from mac and cheese to cheeseburgers to fish and chips and nachos. What more do you need? The Hogtown Vegan has also earned a nod from TripAdvisor, receiving its Certificate of Excellence.

LD West, as featured in Forbes, Daily Mail and more, is the brand behind the most original holster yet, a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet. LD West also offers a range of other apparel and accessories. Click here to view our entire selection or contact us for more information.

Summer is quickly approaching, and that means that it’s time to start thinking about the summer necessities - the things you won’t be able to live without. First up? Accessories!

1. Sunglasses

   Sunglasses are the summer essential of all summer essentials, not only for the purpose of protecting your eyes from those nasty UV rays, but also as a great way to top off any outfit. Orange/yellow-tinted sunglasses a la the 70s are going to be one of the newest sunglasses trends, applicable to both men and women alike.

2. A Summer Jacket

   You are going to need a lightweight jacket for all of those summer nights spent on the patio. An alternative for those who are partial to denim? The denim jacket, of course. Pro Tip: Choose a summer jacket that can see you through a variety of events, from work to more casual weekend gatherings.

3. Boat Shoes

   Sandals and flip flops may come to mind when you think of traditional summer footware, and sure, they have their place. But boat shoes are where it’s at. Both men and women can rock the boat shoe and they have both comfort and versatility going for them, appropriate for the beach and the office. Plus, you are going to see flip flops on every summer essential list out there.

4. LD West’s Original Holster Hybrid

   Our holster hybrid, a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet, may become your next summer obsession. Not only can it be worn in any number of ways, making it the perfect summer accessory, but summer means all the more reason to throw a get-together, and the last thing you want is to lose your phone. Our holster will be your lifesaver more than once, protecting your important things so you don’t have to.

5. A Beach Bag

   What would a summer be without a beach bag? A beach bag is not only an absolute summer essential for practical purposes on beach-going days, but also a great way to complement your outfit.

6. A Weekend Backpack

   Our calendars tend to be a bit more full during the summer months. Do you have your go-to weekend backpack ready? If not, you are going to need one.

LD West, as featured in Forbes, Daily Mail and more, is the brand behind the most original holster yet, a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet. LD West also offers a range of other apparel and accessories, too. Click here to view our entire selection or contact us for more information.

If you’ve just landed an interview for your dream job, the next step is to actually get the job. The interview is all about the first impression, and you only have a few seconds to make a good one. Your choice of dress on the day of your interview will put you on the path to making a great first impression. Without further ado, take a look at this interview style guide to help you land your dream job.

1. Formality and Conservativeness Are Key

   You want to set yourself up for success from the moment you meet your potential boss. This means erring on the side of formality and conservativeness.

   To establish yourself as a professional, a suit is a non-negotiable. A single-breasted solid navy blue suit is typically the go-to first interview option, while a solid dark gray is a good option for your second interview. A two button cut falls into the more classic option, but three buttons is also acceptable.

   Avoid: black suits, tan suits, pinstripes, double-breasted suits and blazers/sports jackets.

   For dress shirts, opt for a straight-point shirt (not a button down) in solid white and 100% cotton (do not wear blends). Iron and tuck it in.

   Avoid: striped and patterned shirts, tab collars and French cuffs.

   Ensure that your suit is crisp and that everything is properly ironed. Complete the look with a pair of black Oxford shoes (no penny loafers or shoes with straps - laces only).

2. Include (the Appropriate) Accessories

   The most important accessory is your choice of tie. Opt for a dark-coloured tie in a solid colour or choose one with one of the following two patterns: small dots or classic stripes. Whether you prefer to wear belts or suspenders, choose one or the other (but not both). Lastly, you can also wear a watch during your interview, but leave the sporty-style watch or the Rolex at home.

   Avoid: Bright-coloured ties, bow ties, pocket squares, jewellery.

3. Don’t Overlook the Details

   Don’t overlook the details, because even the smallest ones, such as your choice of sock, can make or break your look. Choose solid black dress socks that go past your ankles.

LD West, as featured in Forbes, Daily Mail and more, is the brand behind the most original holster yet, a mix between a cell phone holder and a wallet. LD West also offers a range of other apparel and accessories, too. Click here to view our entire selection or contact us for more information.

When it comes to choosing attire for a wedding, the only definite tradition is the prohibition against dressing in white. However, you should also avoid a shouting piece of jewelry that is distracting. The idea is to keep the limelight on the couple.

But finding the right attire for any special event is always a challenge. Your wardrobe might have a mix of formal and casual items – some are too short or too baggy, and others feel so 24out of trend that they should have been discarded years ago. As a guest attending one of the happy couple’s most important events, it is only natural that you want to look your best.

Here are some ideas to dress for a gay wedding:

1. City Venue

   If the wedding is in a large and vibrant city, where people dress fashionable, the guests will be expected to follow the trend. Men can choose a classic black designer suit paired with a printed shirt, cuff links or bright patterned socks. Girls can take the opportunity to don a classic black cocktail piece coupled with high heels and statement jewelry or an embellished clutch. This will light up the dance floor.

2. Western-style Wedding

   A western-style wedding is usually low-key and intimate, so you will want to leave your flannel shirts at home. Find out whether the ceremony will be held in a garden to avoid overdressing or under-dressing. A safe bet for gentlemen would be a neat day suit in navy or Grey, or a slim cut pair of khakis matched with a sharp shirt and sport jacket. You can also add a little gingham on your pocket square or tie for modest western flair.

   Don’t wear cowboy boots. Instead, choose a nice pair of dress shoes to complement your outfit. Ladies can appear lovely in a floaty sundress, wedges, and perhaps a shrug to keep you warm in the evening.

3. Energetic Couple

   For a lit couple, you can choose loud attire to complement the energetic mood. However, you will want to avoid fashion trends or conventional clothing that takes attention from the couple. You may even wear a pair of vegan leather pants, paired with a dressier t-shirt and velvet blazer for men, or a dressy, drapey top for ladies to create varied texture.

Most gay weddings typically have a romantic feel, which gives the attendees some freedom to choose their attire. In this case, men can opt for an impeccably tailored suit or a bold, checkered jacket for a little flair, while ladies can don a sparkly or slinky dress with high platforms.

If you have recently become a vegan, it can be a little difficult at first to find beauty and body care products to complement your new lifestyle. Many companies have hidden non-vegan ties, either in their ingredients, like carmine – a reddish pigment manufactured from insect “shudder” – or in their practises, like in the case of brands that test on animals or are founded by non-cruelty-free companies.

This may have been a real problem a few years ago, but with the increasing popularity of veganism, there is a burgeoning market of green and animal-friendly brands. Here are some beauty and/or skin care companies that only deal in vegan products:

1. Uma Oils
   The Indian-based company hand-harvests its range of organic oils from its farms. The company uses an ancient Ayurveda formula to create facial and wellness oil blends that deeply moisturise, brighten, clarify, and repair the skin while keeping it safe from environmental toxins. Some of the earnings are channelled to educating the local youth through scholarships, and improving the health of the community through a village clinic the company sponsors.
2. French Girl Organics
   French Girl Organics is an Anthropologie-approved company with a line of luxe skincare products made with organic ingredients. It is one of the chicest all-vegan brands in the market, and is particularly well known for its beeswax-free lip tint.
3. Au Naturale Cosmetics
   The company has made a name for itself for leading the fight for more transparency in the beauty industry on Capitol Hill. Moreover, it has a range of fashionable makeup colours and formula made from locally-sourced ingredients that are ideal for sensitive skin.
4. Elate Cosmetics
   The Canadian brand offers striking colour cosmetics with an earthy-glam vibe owing to the sustainable bamboo packaging. The company’s makeup is also available at an affordable price point, which makes it quite competitive in the vegan beauty industry.
5. Beauty Without Cruelty
   Founded in 1963 in England, Beauty Without Cruelty has been at the forefront of the animal cruelty-free cosmetics movement for decades now. The company offers a range of skin-care products, hair-care and styling products, cosmetics, and even nail lacquers.

Borrowing from your boyfriend is not as simple as tossing on one of his blazers and walking out the door. It can be easier for most unisex accessories, but you also need to consider contrast and proportions in your matching.

Here are some of your boyfriend’s accessories that you will make you look awesome:

1. His watch
   

   Women’s watches are generally very small and flashy. If you don’t mind wearing an accessory that is much bigger than a bracelet, and a little heavy, you can borrow your boyfriend’s watch on multiple occasions. While you can’t match the watch with a designer evening gown, it can be a great accessory in casual and business environments as a symbol of power and boldness.

   However, you should only wear a refined and elegant men's timepiece, as opposed to a bulky sports watch. A good wristwatch can complement casual and business outfits, and is great when combined with feminine accessories such as stacked bracelets or rings.

2. His hat
   

   Men don’t wear their hats as often as they used to, except for a few who match their modern hats with urban-smart attire. Still, women look fabulous in men’s hats – and can even purchase their own designer headpieces.

   An elegant fedora or panama hat can be matched with any feminine outfit, including jeans and heels, stylish summer attire, a night-out outfit with a mixture of feminine and masculine accessories, and even business attire that creates harmony between the two styles.

   There are a few rules for wearing a man’s hat that you should be familiar with to achieve that dazzling look.

3. His tie and cufflinks

   Every man looks stylish and sophisticated in matching ties and cufflinks. They are a unique accessory that has been around since the dawn of fashion, and they add elegance to an impeccable outfit.

   Women can also don ties and cufflinks, usually in the form of slim and narrow bowties, oversized ties, and tie-like scarves. These can spice up your formal outfit and add a masculine edge to your feminine charm. Choose cufflink styles with small rhinestones or pearls to enhance your feminine image, though you can match the tie and cufflinks to any proper outfit depending on the setting – high-end party, business meeting, or urban chic office wear.

Your boyfriend’s regular clothes, including shirts, sweaters, and blazers, will probably be over-sized, but this is not necessarily a bad thing provided you can match these pieces well with shorts, skinny jeans, or a skirt.

Weddings can be expensive, so it may not seem like a good idea to add more items to your list. But after a wedding, it is expected that the groom will thank his best man and groomsmen for supporting him on his special day with some personalised gifts.

Although tradition is reason enough to buy groomsmen gifts, you may also be incentivised by the fact that these men, who stood with you during your wedding, are the closest people to you – and the ones most likely to help you out in any future situations. A thoughtful groomsmen gift is a great opportunity to show them your appreciation for their selflessness.

Here are some practical gifts to consider:

1. Tie clip and cufflinks set
   A matching set of cufflinks and a tie clip is a great gift for men that can be used on a regular basis. You can also gift your groomsmen just one of those pieces, either a tie clip or a cufflinks set – but the full set is perfect and easily attainable at a discount. You can also include a tie if you intend for them to use the accessories for your wedding.
2. Stamped wallets
   Handmade and personalised wallets are another great groomsmen gift. You can customise a standard bi-fold wallet with their name, monogram or the wedding date. Get a quality wallet that will retain the feel and smell of genuine leather even after years of repeated use.
3. Leather wrapped flasks
   After a day of celebrations, your groomsmen might still be unfulfilled if they can’t go home sipping on their favourite drink from their new drinking accessory. If some of the men are nervous about standing in front of a crowd, it may be best if you don’t give them their gifts until the wedding is over. Otherwise, a flask is a classic groomsmen gift – and the leather wrapping simply gives it an edge.
4. Personalised travel bag
   This is a perfect gift for adventurous men, and would be particularly useful if given just before your bachelor party. It will help your guys pack their clothes and essential toiletries in style, and keep them organised until the wedding is over. There are many men’s canvas and leather duffle bags to choose from, though you may want one with a messenger bag, a luggage tag, a toiletry bag, or a tie case.
5. Cologne
   Many men desire a second fragrance – since most have at least one cologne – but they don’t necessarily want to go out shopping for one on their own. You will need to do a little olfactory research, with help from your partner or female friends, to pick a different scent for each of the groomsmen.