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A new semester is almost in full swing. You are about to meet new people and attend a lot of new events, so naturally you want to look your best. At the same time, you have to plan for those late nights and a tendency to go to class in a pair of pajamas. Good news, students: track suits are very trendy this year!

Here are some style tips that will help you to look your best this semester.

1. Know Your Strengths

   To look your best, you have to know your strengths. Knowing what colours look best on you (the key to this is to figuring out your undertones), dressing for your shape, and dressing in a way that makes you feel comfortable will give you a solid foundation on what to wear.

2. Dress With Your Personal Style in Mind

   It is important that you keep in mind whatever personal style you tend to gravitate toward. When you feel like yourself, you will be more confident, and, as a result, you will look a lot better than if you tried to wear something that wasn’t "you."

3. Be Realistic; Master the Comfortable Yet Stylish Look

   Despite your best intentions, there are going to be a lot of days where you don’t feel like putting in a lot of effort. This makes sense; you have a lot on your plate! When thinking about what items to fill your closet, aim for comfortable, easy-to-wear options that are still cool. For example, have some great sweaters to choose from, a great pair of jeans, some fitted t-shirts, and one great jacket (like a jean or faux leather jacket). Smaller details like a scarf, sunglasses, or red lipstick can make you seem effortlessly polished. This tip will help you look great all semester long and not just on special occasions.

4. Plan For Your Worst Days

   As mentioned above, there are going to be a lot of times when you’ve just pulled an all-nighter, are short on time, and have to rush to class. Set out an outfit each week that you can wear on those days. Make it something that you can throw on quickly but that looks effortless.

LD West is the brand behind the original holster: a mix between a cell-phone holder and a wallet that is as stylish as it is functional. We also offer a variety of other accessories that are perfect for helping you look your best this semester. Click here to view our entire selection.

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.

Getting an invite to a cocktail party is great, but what do you wear? The term cocktail party refers to a social gathering in which cocktails (drinks) are served. It can also be known as a cocktail reception or mixer. Showing up in style is just as important as mingling with the guests. Below you’ll find a guide to help you know how to dress for a cocktail party because looking sharp is all that matters.

Dress for the season

As with any event you attend, you need to be seasonably dressed. Choose your attire based on the season and weather. A cocktail party thrown in July allows men to wear seersucker, especially if the event takes place outdoors. For women, a summer cocktail party gives you the liberty to wear floral prints and creams. You can even get away with wearing a romper or playsuit.

Know your host

When you receive an invite to a cocktail party, it’s important to know exactly who your host is. If the host of the party is more conservative, then you’ll know what type of hem and neckline you can wear. For the boys, the more conservative the host, the more pieces you’ll need to wear. For instance, if the host is a more casual type of person, ties may not need to be worn. However, if the person is more of a buttoned-up type then ties are a must.

Understand the occasion

Cocktail parties can be thrown for any occasion, which will dictate what you can wear. Is it a wedding? Is it a work function? Is it an engagement? A birthday? If it’s a wedding that means no white. If it’s a work function that means respectable neck and hemlines and crisp, ironed shirts. A birthday or engagement gives you a little more leeway for colour and prints. Also, no jeans. Ever. You cannot wear jeans to a cocktail party no matter what the occasion is. That doesn’t mean that women cannot wear trousers or skinny pants but jeans are never a good idea.

Suit yourself

When in doubt, suit up. Every man should have at least one good suit in his closet. If it’s summer, you can wear lighter colours like shades, light or baby blue or even pastels. For a summer cocktail party, skip the tie and choose an ascot instead to complete your look. In the winter, try a grey or navy suit instead of traditional black.

Go clutch or go home

Bulky totes and large crossbody bags are a no-no at cocktail parties. You want to carry a small clutch with a wrist strap or one that you can tuck easily under your arm. For the gentlemen, bring with you only the essentials (keys, wallet, phone, cards) so your pockets don’t look too bulky.

Planning a bachelorette? You’ll need various essentials to ensure the party, weekend or week goes off without a hitch. Here’s everything you need to throw an unforgettable bachelorette party:

1. Plan around the bride: When it comes to choosing a theme and inviting guests, think about the bride. What does she like? Who would she want at her bachelorette? Incorporate the bride’s interests into the party and choose activities, music and food that you know she’ll love.
2. Photobooth: Every attendee of the bachelorette will want photographic evidence of the fun being had. Instead of relying on phones to capture the moments, rent a photobooth. If that’s not an option, get a few mini Polaroid cameras for people to use.
3. Favours for all: Whether there are 15 attendees or five, give everyone a personalized party favour. This let’s them know how appreciated they are and how much they matter to the bride.
4. Guestbook for the bride: Create a guestbook and have each attendee sign it with a special message to the bride. The bride will cherish her bachelorette guestbook forever. It will remind her of the fun she had and how much she loves you and her other friends.
5. Snacks: There will probably be champagne and other cocktails, so make sure the guests have enough snacks to eat while they’re imbibing in the bubbly. You can even incorporate the theme of the party into the snacks. For instance, a nautical themed bachelorette needs buoy or lighthouse shaped cookies.
6. Temporary tats: Easy to use and customizable, temporary tattoos are a bachelorette essential. They’ll last as long as the party does and wash off with soap and water.
7. The right hashtag: Come up with a personalized hashtag for the bachelorette that all the guests can use for their social media posts. The hashtag could be as simple as #lindsaysbachweekend or you can go for something more fun like #lindsaysgirlsquad.
8. Robes: The morning after requires optimal comfort. Have plush robes at the ready for guests to lounge around in as they look at the pics from the night before.
9. Water bottles: Keep custom, reusable water bottles on hand for the attendees because hydration is key during a bachelorette. You’ll be dancing and drinking sugary cocktails that can dehydrate you quickly.
10. Fun: Instead of worrying if the bride is enjoying herself or trying to clean up as the party is going on, relax and enjoy yourself. You worked hard to put this bachelorette together and you deserve to have fun too.

Many clubs and venues, whether they are indoor or outdoor, no longer allow bags during concerts and festivals. This may seem like an inconvenience but it is actually done for safety reasons. Plus, do you really want to lug around a giant purse at a show when you’re trying to dance and enjoy the band? Of course not. Yet, you’ll still need somewhere to keep your essentials.

No bag? No problem! Here are some tips to ensure you have have everything you need with you when you can’t bring a bag.

Cardholder

A card holder can hold all your important IDs and is small enough to fit into your pocket. You don’t have to settle for a boring silver card holder. You can opt for a genuine leather version or animal print. Cardholders are slim and some come with clips that can be affixed to the inside of your pants or skirt if you do not have pockets.

Holster wallet

Holster wallets are a new trend that you should jump on even if you’re not going to see your favourite band. They are versatile and small enough to pass the security test at a concert. Furthermore, holster wallets are worn sort of like suspenders and you can get them in an array of colours to match any outfit. In them, you can fit your ID, money, keys and even your phone.

Small clutch

Most venues will allow tiny clutches or wristlets into the show, so the smaller the better. Clutches are usually made to hold no more than your ID, your phone, your keys and some makeup, but that’s really all you need.

Pockets

This may seem like a no-brainer but pockets aren’t found on every piece of clothing these days. Finding something to wear with pockets doesn’t mean you have to dig out that old pair of cargo pants from your past. Instead, try a skirt or dress with hidden pockets that are small but have ample room for your phone, keys, ID and money.

Upgraded phone case

There’s a phone case for everything these days. Look for one that comes with a false back where you can store your ID. You can also find an attachment for your phone case that is made to fit cards and money and has a keyring.

If all else fails, you can use a clear plastic bag. It’s not exactly the most fashionable accessory, but it’ll hold your gear if you’re going to an all-day festival and need to bring more than just money, ID, keys and your phone. However, mixing the holster wallet with an upgraded phone case will not only hold your stuff better but will look great too.

It’s summer and that means taking your look to the next level. This year, we’re seeing some of the old classics coming back around and new styles turning heads on the runway. Since you’re not walking the catwalk or gracing the pages of Vogue you don’t have to go all out and take on an entire new wardrobe. Instead, try any of the following 10 best summer fashion trends and elevate your style easily.

1. Cold shoulder dress: Now that the weather’s warm, show off those shoulders with summer’s top trend; the cold shoulder dress. Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your shoulders when wearing one of these trendy dresses!
2. White sneakers: Men and women alike can benefit from a crisp pair of kicks. Whether you go with big names like Converse, Adidas, Reebok or smaller fare from a local designer, white sneakers give any look a casual touch.
3. One-piece bathing suits: Bikinis and two-pieces have had their share of the spotlight and now it’s time for one-pieces to get their due. Hit the beach in style with a one-piece bathing suit.
4. Rompers for all: Rompers aren’t just for women anymore. Enter the RompHim, a short jumpsuit designed for men. Pair your RompHim with white sneakers (#3), aviators (#9) and your new holster wallet (#10). Now, you’re ready for the summer festival circuit.
5. Printed shorts: Looking for something to wear with your white sneakers (#2)? Get yourself a pair of printed shorts and you’re all set. Go for bold, colourful shorts with flowers, fun patterns or animal prints.
6. Cropped tops: Now that you’ve got a pair of printed shorts (#5), what top do you wear? Forget a regular T-shirt and opt for a cropped top. And guys, don’t be shy, there are cropped tops for you too.
7. Backless dresses: Not ready to expose your shoulders (#1)? Show off your lats instead this summer with a backless dress. Backless dresses are in and the more cutout the back of the dress is, the better.
8. Everything in navy: Move over black because navy is the colour of summer. Navy is versatile and matches with everything from baby blue to pink to red to orange.
9. Aviators: The classics never go out of style, which is why you’ll find aviator sunglasses on this list. Nothing says summer cool like a pair of aviators because they protect your eyes from the sun and look great.
10. Holster wallets: Traditional wallets are out and holsters are in. Holster wallets free up your purse or pockets for other things like your keys or your aviators (#9) when you’re indoors.

Embrace these top 10 fashion trends and you’ll spend the summer of 2017 in style. Too bad you can’t wear them all at once!

Wearing an all-black ensemble is sleek and slimming and can be worn all-year-round on both a casual, day-to-day basis and on more formal affairs. This monochrome works for just about any style out there, too.This is such a versatile look that it can even be worn to the office! The thing about an all-black ensemble, however, is that it can look a bit drab if not done right. The following tips, however, will help you to rock this look.

1. Vary the Fabrics
   Opt for different fabrics when selecting your articles of clothing as they will provide texture. In general, a black t-shirt provides a strong foundation and you can vary the rest of the look from there. As we mentioned above, this look can be worn any time of year, but the key is choosing seasonal-appropriate fabric. That means fabrics like silk for summer and heavier fabrics like wools for cooler months.
2. Add Layers
   You can also add additional texture to your all-black ensemble with layers, opting for items like a kimono, a black jacket, etc.
3. Play with Patterns/Details
   An all-black ensemble requires that you think about patterns and/or details a lot more than you probably normally would. You can interest with a peplum top or by choosing articles of clothing with fringes. An all-black ensemble is all about the details and adding in texture in any way you can.
4.  Add in Interest with Your Accessories
   An all-black ensemble doesn’t mean that your accessories should also black, although they certainly can be. It is important to add in interest with your accessories by choosing coloured jewelry, coloured and/or textured shoes or sunglasses, even if those accessories are simply gold.
5. Add in Colour with your Makeup
   Remember that your choice of makeup is a great way to add in a bit of colour to your outfit, particularly with your blush and lipstick.
6.  Wear a Black Backpack
   To break up the outfit a bit, it is a good idea to a opt for something like a black backpack, which adds dimension and creates a more well-rounded black ensemble. The great thing about backpacks is that they are particularly on-trend at the moment. You can also add further dimension with a black hat!
7. Consider Fitted Clothing
   Take advantage of the fact that black is a slimming colour and consider more fitted clothing for that “wow” factor.

Here is your go-to list for must-have accessories when travelling abroad. 

1. A Backpack
   When you’re travelling abroad, a backpack is one of the most functional and yet stylish accessories you could bring with you. Not only do they make great carry-ons, but they are also very practical when travelling around on a day-to-day basis. You tend to have to carry a lot of things with you at any given time and a backpack makes lugging all of those items comfortable, allowing you to keep your hands free. Additionally, it is always important to think about safety when you’re visiting a new country, and you can easily wear your backpack on the front so that you can keep a watchful eye over all of your valuables. 
2. Noise Cancelling Headphones
   If you’re not a fan of flying (or crying babies!), noise cancelling headphones completely block out any sounds on the airplane.
3. A Mini On-The-Go Essentials Kit
   Another must-have travel accessory is a mini travel kit. There will be times when you will want access to certain things, but because you’re out and about, it won’t be easy to find them. Make a DIY version, complete with hand wipes, bandaids and a hair tie.
4. Tech Gear: Universal Adaptors and a Portable Battery Charger
   There are a couple of necessary tech gadgets when travelling abroad, and here they are: adaptors and a portable battery charger for when your smartphone is nearly out of power and yet you need to figure out how to get back to your hotel.
5. A Poncho
   There is nothing worse than being caught in the rain and having nowhere to purchase rain gear. Sure, you could bring an umbrella, but a poncho is super lightweight, taking up hardly any space in your suitcase. Who says you can’t look great in a poncho?
6. A Travel Journal
   You may not think of a travel journal as an accessory, but you will thank us later when you have all of those memories to look back on. You will be surprised by how much you forget - especially in the context of a trip abroad when everything is so different. A travel journal will hold onto all of those memories for years to come.

Montreal gets a handful of new restaurants each week, but here are some of best.

1. Bouillon Bilk - 1595 Boul Saint-Laurent
   Bouillon Bilk is quickly becoming regarded as the best restaurant in Montreal and has cultivated a loyal fanbase in its relatively short time. Their tasting menu comes highly reviewed, with wine pairings available. If you’re looking for an excellent fine dining experience, this is the place to go.
2. La Panthere Verte - 160 St-Viateur Street East
   As vegan fare grows in popularity, one of the best vegan restaurant in Montreal naturally deserves a mention with La Lumiere Du Mile End ranking consistently high across the board. This is an eclectic restaurant, great for casual weekend brunch after a busy weekend. They even do bike delivery!
   
   Offering delicious, organic vegan fare like falafel (voted the best vegan falafel in town!), this place is easily one of the best vegan restaurants in Montreal. Speaking of vegan, LD West offers a cool selection of vegan backpacks that you can wear to brunch!
3.  Patati Patata Friterie de Luxe - 4177 St. Laurent 
   What would a list of the best restaurants in Montreal be without a nod to the best poutine place in town? It is Montreal, after all. If you’re looking for poutine, Patati Patata Friterie de Luxe has arguably the best poutine around and is definitely a must-try. As a tiny diner with a colourful exterior, serving espresso and mini-burgers, you have to give this one a try.
4.  Les Deux Singes de Montarvie - 176 Saint Viateur West Street 
   This electric restaurant has been much buzzed about and deserves a spot on this list. In fact, it is the top rated restaurant on TripAdvisor, out of more than 4500 restaurants! Offering delicious, seasonal French fare, you can also enjoy its selection of local artwork while you dine. If you’re looking for another fine dining experience, give this restaurant a whirl.
5.  Provisions 1268 - 1268 Van Horne Avenue 
   This gem has received a lot of attention and also happens to rank high on TripAdvisor. Offering Canadian cuisine, their dishes change daily and have been described as being as beautiful as art itself. As soon as you’re seated, you will notice the list of ingredients of the day. Choose between 5 or 7 courses.