Now that Winter is officially here, I constantly find myself strapping on boots as I head out the door. From standard lace-ups to motorcycle inspired side zips to rugged work wear styles, my go-to’s are always in uniform black making them appropriate for any occasion. To celebrate the holidays, I’ve bundled up a few of my favorite pairs to keep you and your feet warm on the go as the year winds down. If you were in my shoes..

A personal favorite, Belgian designer Dries Van Noten studied fashion at the acclaimed Royal Academy of Fine Art in Antwerp and launched his first collection from his eponymous line in 1985. Apart of the avant-garde fashion collective known as the Antwerp Six, he is known for his eccentric textiles and prints that I’ve simply come to love. This coat is no different. Made of wool and polyester, the classic peacoat style has been updated in quilted grey and filled for warmth and insulation. Slim through the arms and body, there’s nothing more that I want this Winter than to be wrapped in a little Dries. Available at tresbienshop.net

There are wish lists and then there are luxe lists. Now, some may think the two are the same, but they aren’t. And here is the difference. Of course, when I shop, I always see things that I really like. Pieces that make me say, “Ooooh, I want that.” These items would be a qualifier for wish list. And then there are those pieces, and you know what I’m talking about, that you love. Items that make me say, “Someday, before I die…. (sigh).” These special finds are your investment pieces. Trust me when I say, you will reach for them time and  time again. What’s on your luxe list?

Despite the bone chilling weather, I decided to check out the first day of Opening Ceremony’s annual sample sale yesterday in hopes of dodging the crowd that was bound to ensue over the weekend. Although there was still a line I had to file into I was inside 20 minutes later, a short time to the seasoned sample shopper.

Keeping my purchases limited, I picked up two sweaters I just couldn’t live without; a charcoal grey blazer-type cardigan with gold sailor buttons from Opening Ceremony, and another standard grey honey-combed piece from S.N.S. Herning. While we all know the great aesthetic that OC produces in their garments, S.N.S. Herning may be a bit more obscure in most circles. Needless to say, the Denmark based company has been at the forefront of quality and craftsmanship in knitwear since their first iconic fisherman’s sweater in 1931. For more information after the jump.

The big chill is officially here, and while I’m not one to complain about layering and the options cold weather allows for dressing up, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t thinking about sunny days and warmer weather. To express such sentiments I looked no further than my years spent in the gorgeous City of San Francisco. Here’s a look at some of the images I’ve captured throughout town to brighten and inspire the mood.

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