Fall Must-Haves for a Wardrobe Update: Stick with the Essentials

So a new season is quickly approaching, and you're probably thinking of adding a few pieces to your wardrobe. Whether you're going back to school, wanting to make a good impression at your new job or simply want to look your best after the summer break, we wanted to help you choose a few outfits to update your style into next season. Keep in mind that getting a wardrobe update does not mean that you have to spend tons of money to look in style this fall.

In fact, experts in fashion and style all seem to agree on the same thing: The key to revamping your wardrobe without spending that much is finding the right pieces - the essentials. We picked these essential pieces for this fall because:

- they're versatile: you can mix and match the pieces to create complete outfits.

- they're stylish: these pieces will sure make you look fashionable and fab.

- they're affordable: of course, who wouldn't love to buy everything they like. But in reality, there are more things to enjoy in life, like trips, a fun night with the girls, than just clothes.

Your Essential Item Shopping List

Neutral-colour Leggings

One of the top essential pieces that will help mix and match various outfits are the Roots Leggings.

Why: Leggings are still a wardrobe staple this season, and we're glad they are! They are comfortable, fashion-forward, and practical. We chose the black for the leggings because this classic colour is very flattering to all body types, is elegant and goes with everything. Leggings also give you the functionality of going from a casual to a dressed up look in a snap. ($24.00)

Versatile Tops

Often, we can become a little overwhelmed on what kinds of tops to buy. When looking at a cute top, also consider how functional and versatile it is.

Here are our choices for functionally fashionable tops. We believe they're all great purchases. But remember it's about choosing a piece that fits your lifestyle.

Option # 1: Penny Shirt

 

Why: The Penny Shirt is one of those shirts that can give you that instant fashionable look while still being comfortable enough to fit your busy lifestyle. This stylish shirt is designed to accentuate your waist and the collar detail gives that super chic look.  In other words, it's a very flattering top. If you are on the long and lean side, you can even accessorize it with a skinny belt, which is totally in as well. But if you have more of a petite figure, no worries! It will work just as well for you!

Plaid is also super hot this season and this colour plaid will help you stand out from the rest!

Finish the chic look by pairing it with some nice heels for a dressed up look or with cute flats for whenever you're on the go. ($68.00)

Option # 2 :Rachel V-Neck Tunic Sweater

Why: This top makes any outfit look great. Its V-neck is very feminine and flattering. We went for the vibrant purple seed on this one to make a statement. This top is also versatile as it can be worn at day and night. So if you are at school or work all day, we can always throw some bold accessories and some heels for the evening look. ($78.00). Check out the Rachel V-Neck Tunic Sweater.

Option # 3 : Cozy Layer T-Shirt

Why: The name says it all. A fall-must have, this shirt is super comfortable AND an essential piece for layering. We also like the design on this shirt with a 3/4 sleeves and crew neckline. You can wear this shirt with everything: jeans, sweats, skirts, or even a "boyfriend" jacket and skinny jeans emulating that magazine look.

This is definitely the perfect layering piece to complement your fall wardrobe. ($30.00) Buy this basic layering t-shirt now.  

  

 

Sweaters

Neutral-coloured, practical sweaters can go a long way and are super functional during fall. These are our 3 picks for essential fall sweaters.

Option #1 : Capri Hoody

Why: We truly believe this hoody is amazing. First of all, let's talk about the design. This longer-length hoody looks great with leggings, skinny jeans or a pair of snug active pants. The neutral salt & pepper colour gives this hoody that vintage look. We also like the functionality of the thumb holes for those chillier fall evenings (or cold days typing at a keyboard!) We also love the fact that is fitted to the body for a more feminine look.

We believe the Capri Hoody is another fall must-have because it's very versatile, it's functional and looks great. ($74.00) Get your own Capri Hoody now!

Option #2 : Grassroots Hoody

Here's another sweater option for you. Right away, the Ombre Charcoal on this hoody caught our attention. This colour gives you greater flexibility when pairing it with other pieces. We think of this sweater as one of those items that you can wear a lot since it can easily be paired with jeans or with some active sweats for a workout session while also being comfortable.

This hoody is also very functional. Like our previous suggestion, this lovely hoody also features the thumb holes and the popular scuba style neckline. ($70.00) Pick up your Grassroots Hoody.

Active pants

Our Option: The Mantra Pant - "Super pants"

We love sweats, all kinds of them in different colours and shapes, but we have to admit that the Mantra Pant is our number one recommendation as the essential active wear this and all seasons!

Want to know why we believe the Mantra Pant is the active buy and a total must-have? The Mantra Pant constantly gets some of the best ratings and reviews by the lucky ladies who already own this coveted piece. ($50.00)

  

Why: Of course, you can wear at yoga class, but what our outspoken reviewers said about the Mantra Pant is that it fits a very, very active lifestyle. You can wear cycling, grocery shopping, catching up with friends at lunch, or even at night out in town when paired with a long, dressy top. They are "form-fitting," "classy," "a great year-round black pant basic," and "comfortable." In word, we would describe the Mantra Pant as "the one," and we think they totally make one great purchase. Check out what's all the buzz about these "Super Pants."

There you go. These were some our picks for fall must-haves. A few basics can go a long way and help you revamp your style in an affordable way. Head to our website to check our newest styles for fall.

Shop our newest styles now!

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• It's Almost Back to School Time 

As Seen In: Ever Cool ION Chooses the Roots Olivia

ION Magazine is the oh so cool fashion mag based out of Vancouver, B.C. They're all about art, fashion, music and culture - online and on the streets. 

So of course we love that they chose our very own Olivia Bag in Pebble Rustler Leather to feature in their "Fun Bags!" spread in their latest issue (#58, page 13). Check it out.

In case you aren't familiar with the Roots Olivia Bag, here's what you need to know.

It's made in Canada from 100% Italian Leather. It features a top magnet closure with one main compartment and one exterior zipper pocket. The interior is lined, with one zipper pocket and a two-compartment slip pocket. It has a stable handle as well as a removable adjustable shoulder strap (hands-free shopping!).

Dimensions: 13.5"(L) x 14"(H) x 3"(D). Handle drop: 8". Shoulder strap: 24" - 42".

If Pebble isn't your style, then check out our latest shade, Denim, both featured here.

 

 

Maria, the First Mamavation Mom, Rocks Her Roots Hoody on Her Latest Vlog

Meet Maria, the first Mamavation Mom. Watch all Maria's videos as she shares with us her workout routine, food regime, and daily challenges as she changes her life around to create a healthier lifestyle for her and her family. She is totally an inspiration for all of us.

In this video, Maria talks about her new Roots Hoody - the Womens Basic Grassroots Hoody in Grey.

Keep up the good work, Maria!

Your To Do List:

Head to our website to shop for the "nicest, softest, loveliest" hoodies.

Catch Maria's diary as the First Mamavation Mom on Bookieboo.com

Check out Maria's personal blog.

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Saddle Up: Roots Equestrian Collection is Back!

Who doesn't love the effortlessly chic and polished look of equestrians? Their outfits radiate grace, luxury, and have a certain timelessness about them. However, not everyone has to own a horse or stable to enjoy the classic apparel. Roots is very excited to announce the much-anticipated return of the Roots Equestrian athletic lifestyle collection. 

This custom collection, designed and manufactured in Canada, consists of Roots’ legendary fleece hoodies and track jackets, equestrian inspired polo’s, super soft graphic tee’s, and of course some exciting “Roots Green” pieces such as a Yoga Inspired Bamboo Jacket!

The Roots Equestrian collection is sold exclusively at Greenhawk, Canada’s largest Equestrian Retailer, and will be available nationwide September 2009. So whether you're a competitive rider, just love horses, or are fond of the Equestrian look, you'll be sure to find some great pieces that will have you looking sharp and stylish on or off a horse. 

Roots Pick of the Week: Original Crop Eco

With so many new styles and clothes coming out for fall, it can be hard to decide what to buy! That's why we've selected our favourite new item for fall in our Pick of the Week: the Original Crop Eco!

These cute capris are perfect for fall because of their comfort and versatility. Wear them while relaxing at home, doing yard work, going to the gym, or out to class. When it gets really cold out, stuff them into boots to stay warm. You can take your iPod or phone along with you and store it in the inner pocket. Another bonus? These crop pants are organic! What more could you ask for? Cozy sueded fleece, drawcord waistband, cute style and organic = perfect fall item!

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Roots: Green Since '73

Roots Green: the 100 Mile Diet, Could You Do it?

Imagine only buying and eating food from within a 100 mile radius of where you live. Sound easy? Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon will tell you otherwise. They recounted their experiences, including motivations and challenges, on restricting their diet for one year to include only foods grown within 100 miles of their residence in their book "The 100-Mile Diet: A Year of Local Eating."

In 2005, Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon began a one-year experiment in local eating. Their 100-Mile Diet struck a deeper chord than anyone could have predicted, inspiring thousands of individuals, and even whole communities, to change the way they eat. Locally raised and produced food has been called “the new organic" — better tasting, better for the environment, better for local economies, and better for your health. From reviving the family farm to reconnecting with the seasons, the local foods movement is turning good eating into a revolution.

 

While the concept of only eating locally grown food is not new, the book coincided with the emerging popularity of the locavore: someone who eats food grown or produced locally or within a certain radius such as 50, 100, or 150 miles. The locavore movement encourages consumers to buy from farmers’ markets or even to produce their own food, with the argument that fresh, local products are more nutritious and taste better.

Locally grown food is an environmentally friendly means of obtaining food, since supermarkets that import their food use more fossil fuels and non-renewable resources.movement and farmer's markets. Media outlets in North America examined the feasibility of only eating food produced locally, local food-themed events, and locavore groups. Some restaurants and caterers offered 100-mile menus. Some farmers, gardeners, or regional food producers began offering subscription services to deliver produce or urban farming or gardening services. The 100-mile diet spawned many variations to allow for various circumstances and motivations. Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon now host the show "100 Mile Challenge" on the Food Network. Do you think you and your family could try the 100 Mile Diet?

Sources

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_food

http://100milediet.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/100_mile_diet

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As Seen In: Metro Picks the Beach Bucket Bag as a Back to School Must-Have

According to Janine Falcon of Metro, the way to stay ahead of the class this year is to "live campus life like the paparazzi is around the corner and you're an off-duty celeb".

Part of her picks?

The Roots Beach Bucket Bag in Rustler, $238.

"A good quality, honking big handbag, that can double as a books bag is a must." Sound advice!

Check out the full "Back to School" spread here and flip to page 9.

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Our "Back to School" Pick for Him

It's That Time Again Kids!

Our "Back-to-School" Picks for Him

All good things eventually have to come to an end, but no one really wants to think about leaving those lazy summer days behind to hit the books again in September. However, Roots has thought of a few great reasons to look forward to going back to school: our new clothing and accessories! Beat your back-to-school blues by shopping for new fall arrivals at Roots and your first day back might not be so bad.

Men

Every guy should have a comfy, classic polo shirt in their wardrobe, as polo shirts are an easy way to look stylish without looking like you just threw something together. That's why we love the Malaspina Slim Polo Shirt. It has a slim fit for an athletic look, and it's made of 100% organic cotton so you can feel great about helping the environment. Pair it with shorts for warm September days, or jeans for when the weather cools off. At $46, it's a back to school must have!

Our next suggestion for back to school picks is the Rockwood Chambry Shirt. This $55 shirt is perfect for days when you want to look a bit more polished and professional. Made of premium ultra-soft cotton fabric with Oxford styling, this is a classic shirt that can be dressed up or down, with cargo's or dress pants.

For cooler days in the fall, we love the Klondike Full Zipper Sweater, $98. Made from 100% premium merino wool, this sweater is luxuriously soft and stylish. Wear it open for a casual look, or zip it up for a more polished look. We would pair it with a tee or a nice dress shirt underneath, like the Rockwood Chambry Shirt we mentioned above. The other detail we love about this sweater? It has reinforced wool flannel elbow patches, adding a sophisticated flair to it.

 

A back to school wardrober wouldn't be complete without a pair of comfy sweats to lounge around in while doing homework. The Tagish Sweatpant, $60, is great because it has a drawcord for easy adjustment, pockets for storing your keys or phone in if you're dashing out for a coffee run, and are made of a durable cotton/fleece blend.

Want an easy way to look like you should be on the cover of GQ? Check out our Men's Forest Check Poorboy Hat $30, for an instant style update. Stretch fitted for comfort, this hat has a smooth, clean fit that will complement any outfit, from a tee and jeans to a button down shirt and pants. Perfect for impressing your friends at school!

 

No back to school wardrobe would be complete without an all-around great backpack. The Graduate Sport Backpack $58, is amazing because it's eco-friendly: made of recycled polyester from pop bottles! It's also well-designed, with multiple pockets for all the school essentials you can think of, from places to store your water bottle, to your pens and pencils, binders, books, laptop, cell phone, and more. We love it, because although it can hold tons of school essentials, it doesn't look huge or bulky, rather it looks sleek and functional.

 

Now that you have some suggestions for your back to school wardrobe, you're all set! Thinking about back to school wasn't so bad, was it?

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Don't Forget: Get Your Free Roots Leather Gift!

Right now, when you spend $125* online or in-store we're giving you a free Roots leather gift! We like to thank people for being great Roots customers so if you've been eying a new bag, shirt or pair of shorts, now might be the best time to buy! The gift is a great carrying case for smaller items that you carry with you on a day-to-day basis.

*VALID WITH PURCHASE WHEN YOU SPEND $125 BEFORE TAXES AND SHIPPING. WHILE QUANTITIES LAST. COLOURS MAY VARY. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. NOT VALID ON PREVIOUS PURCHASES. ONE GIFT PER CUSTOMER PER ORDER. OFFER MAY VARY IN-STORE.

It's That Time Again Kids!

Its almost that time again when parents put all the toys away and put the kids back on the yellow bus. September is approaching fast and that means the kids are going back to school! For some, back to school shopping is the last event of the summer, so to join in the fun we've picked some new looks for the kids.  

Girls, for that first cold morning in September go to school in style in the pretty Fleece Jacket. Made from 80/20 Cotton/Polyester Fleece the jacket has long sleeves, a hood and an A-line fit. The beautiful radicchio colour is a Canadian favourite! ($32.99) 

Boys are definitely going to impress their friends with this Camo Hoody. Whether you're playing in the backyard or hanging out in the park this hoody is great for the fall weather. Made from 80/20 Cotton/Polyester fleece it is soft to the touch, and has a lined hood with cotton jersey fabric. ($26.99)

Girls check out these amazing Iman Jeans, they go with pretty much everything! They are made from 100% cotton and for only $29.99 they are a staple item every girl going back to school should have in her wardrobe.

The perfect pants for boys are these Blake Cargo Pant. The flat front gives them a dressier look sure to please the moms, and the cargo look with side pockets are cool enough that all boys will love them too. These pants are 100% cotton and come with a belt for only $29.99.

The best part of all back to school outfits is a new backpack. This is the perfect backpack for boys and girls with 5 colours to choose from! Black, Kohl, Ice (shown), Olive, and Raspberry. The Undergrad Sport Backpack is the essential bag for every kids' books and more. ($48)

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