Good Things Come to Those Who Wait: Roots Russian Vamp Tall Boot

Almost every week we receive comments, emails and requests for Roots shoes & boots! Ladies, we are happy to present the Russian Vamp Tall Boot in Tribe Leather.

Made in Canada, this vegetable tanned stitched leather welt boot is truly beautiful and I promise, won't go unnoticed when you wear them! The leather is exclusive to Roots and only becomes softer with age. Manufactured with expert Italian craftsmanship and hand rubbed to give it a distinct vintage look.

The natural rubber sole is comfortable, flexible and slip resistant. The fit - simply fantastic!

They also have a removable insole which wicks moisture, is anti-bacterial, anti-fungus, breathable, fast drying and washable. 

The Russian Vamp Tall Boot is paired here with the Women's Fredricton Zip Sweater and Village Bag Roots Canada in Tribe Leather and available online and in select stores in limited quantities.

Presenting the Canada Collection by Roots®

Today's a big day here at Roots! Roots and MasterCard Canada have teamed up to present the Canada Collection by Roots® in support of the Canadian-based international humanitarian organization Right To Play.

When you purchase an item from the Canada Collection by Roots® , a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Right To Play.

This holiday season, we are encouraging you to make a donation to support Right To Play. Your donation will support programs which use the power of sport and play to change lives and create safer and healthier societies in the most disadvantaged regions of the world. Right To Play trains local coaches and community leaders who work with almost 700,000 children every week to develop basic life skills, teach conflict resolution and improve health. You can make a donation at righttoplay.ca.

Burnt Orange: Out of the Sunshine and Into the Limelight

Every year it seems the autumn months are lacking in creativity.  Brown, Red, Taupe, Mauve, Forest Green: REPEAT.  These are the colours that mainly define fall. 

This season however, Roots is changing it up with its Burnt Orange Collection.  Although this bold shade is no stranger to the autumn theme, its refreshing to see it used comfortably.  Pairing classic Roots hand bags with this fiery Orange hue, make it a daring must-have.  It seems this round dame has finally stepped out of the sunshine and into the limelight.  Congratulations Orange, you've made it to the big leagues!

The Burnt Orange Collection is available in a wide array of Roots classics: the Michelle Bag, Olivia Bag, Little Olivia, Side Saddle, Village Bag, and New Small in Venetian Prince.

 

Roots Secret Intel

This just in: Roots is making boots again!  

Recently we have been made aware of an article promoting our newest style boots for fall.  It's a nostalgic time for Roots, as it has been four years since we last sold footwear in our stores.  Check out this article for more information on what to expect.

Roots making boots again, this time with same soles as Canadian military

by Brenda Bouw (Canadian Press, Oct. 15, 2009)

Iconic Canadian retailer Roots is returning to the footwear business on which it was founded nearly 40 years ago by launching a boot with the same rubbe sole as that worn by troops in Afghanistan.

"We feel it's the finest sole we've ever had" Roots co-founder Micheal Budman said in a recent interview.  "This is something we have big plans for."

Roots has an exclusive contract with Montreal-area company Soucy Baron Inc. to use the same rubber material it produces for Canadian military boots.  Roots will make the new boots at its leather factory in Toronto.

"We think we have something nobody else has on the commercial market"  Budman said of the new boots that will be available in stores across Canada later this month.

Budman said the sole is durable, won't crack in extreme temperatures and will keep people from slipping on ice.

The special soles can be found in two of the various footwear styles that Roots will unveil this fall: its new "Tuffer" brand for both men and women; and it's sheepskin boots, which are for women only.  The price of the Tuffer boot is $218, while the sheepskin boots will sell for $288.

A Canadian military spokesman said its soliders use two types of boots: the Desert Combat Boot, or DCB 09, with a rubber sole made by Soucy Baron, a company that specializes in the custom rubber moulding.

The military also has a DCB 07 with a sole by Quabaug Corp., the North American manufacturer of Vibram soles out of the U.S.

This fall will be the first time in four years that Roots will sell its own footwear in stores, Budman said.

He said the company's decision is a result of customer demand and changes in technology that has made it "more viable" to compete in the footwear business once again.

"We are very proud to be making shoes in Canada," said Budman, who founded Roots along with Don Green.

Roots started as a shoe company in 1973 after opening its first store on Toronto's Yonge Street.  Its first product was the so-called "Negative Heel," a shoe with an incline that cause the body's weight to shift more towards the heel.

"Those were a huge hit.  They did very well, but they were a fad," Budman said.

Budman said Roots stopped making footwear a few years ago, due in part to rising manufacturing costs, and focused instead on its line of clothing and leather bags.

According to its corporate website, Roots has more than 120 retail locations in Canada and the U.S., and more than 60 in Asia.

Its products also have celebrity status, having been worn by several movie stars and professional athletes over the years.

This summer, one of the company's bags received an unexpected endorsement in the movie "The Hangover" where it was dubbed by a male character as his "man-purse" along the lines of the satchel worn by another fictional film character, Indiana Jones.

Carebags: The Perfect Companion for Grocery Shopping

It's rare to find a product that truly works for you, but when you finally do find one, you never want to let go.  Carebags is just such a product. 

As we become more conscious of our Earth and how we want to treat it, we have changed many parts of our lives.  Parts, that many of us, never thought twice about changing before.  A big part of this movement, and one of the easiest adjustments to make, is using reusable bags.  I can remember a time, not so long ago, when check-out clerks at grocery stores would encourage you to double bag your items.  Millions of plastic bags later, we seem to have evolved an innate conciseness about it.  No more are the days of being wasteful, we are now encouraged to bring our own bags to shop.  Although this is a noble act, we are still faced with the dilemma of actually storing the items once home.  Our old plastic bags used to serve not only the purpose of transporting the product, but also storing it neatly and cleanly away.  What's an environmentally-friendly-being to do?

The answer: Carebags.  Developed by two moms in the early 90's in Vancouver B.C. this bag allows you to carry, wash and store your produce all in the same bag.  It can hold up to 10 lbs, it's machine washable, is fast drying, and resistant to mold.  Its hard to believe that there is anything this bag cannot do. Transparent, strong, stretchy, Carebags are the top shelf of reusable bags.

Thanks to an email we received from ecocentricguide.ca we were able learn about this amazing product.  Other suggested ways to use Carebags: Grow sprouts, dry herbs, a strainer, in the laundry to wash delicates. 

Mad For Plaid

Leaves changing colour, freshly sharpened pencils, and of course plaid; these are the things that most remind me of the autumn months.  A classic for fall wardrobes, plaid has had a serious makeover.  Once a preppy accessory, these bold tartans are making their mark all over fall collections.  

From sophisticated romance, to grunge rocker, to lumberjack chic, this trend is one that has no boundaries. Plaid: shirts, scarves, sweaters, headbands, shoes, bags (the list goes on) this trend is fun, easy and affordable to add to your wardrobe.

Pair Roots Diane Motorcycle Jacket with Roots Ronson plaid flannel shirt (in any of the three available colours) and create a retro grunge look.  Or, sport Roots Rivington Melton Jacket on your next hike through the woods. This quilted coat, complete with fur trim, is the perfect way to let out your inner lumberjack.  

 

Want to support this trend without breaking the bank? Try adding a few accessories like Roots Mcgill plaid scarf Scarves are an easy way to add punch of colour and texture to any outfit.  With the added bonus of keeping you warm, why not try out this affordable look?

Will You Be One of 23 to Own This Bag?

We're thrilled to announce the latest in our Limited Edition series: the French Cafe Tote in Dinosaur Leather*.

What makes this bag stand out? The leather. 100% premium Italian leather that is incredibly textured and yet still soft to the touch. It is beautifully complimented with brass hardware.

Each bag also comes with a Limited Edition marked tag. And remember fashionistas, there are ONLY 23!

Front View - Limited Edition French Café Tote in Dinosaur Leather, $318.00

As with all Roots bags, we take great care to ensure the bag functions as well as it looks.

This large and easy to carry French Tote features a main compartment with a zipper closure for secure storage, an interior zipper pocket and a two-compartment slip pockets. It also has two carrying options. Use the shorter handles or go hands-free with the longer, adjustable (and removable) shoulder strap. 

Side View - Limited Edition French Café Tote in Dinosaur Leather, $318.00

Shop now before they're all gone!

*DUE TO HIGH DEMAND AND LIMITED INVENTORY, ITEM MAY SELL OUT QUICKLY. FINAL SALE. ITEM EXCLUDED FROM ALL SALES AND PROMOTIONS.

It's Time to Make a Difference

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and it's time to make a difference.

In support of Rethink Breast Cancer Roots has released two special edition watches, Athletic Mai Thia Breast Cancer Watch and Ladies Moonstone Breast Cancer Watch.

10% of the proceeds from these watches will be donated to Rethink Breast Cancer

Thank you for your support!

As Seen In: The Rebel Jacket in Metro

If you were reading the September 24th issue of Metro you may have noticed the fashion feature 'The Rebel Jacket' on page 29.

Featured was Roots Diane's Motorcycle Jacket Bruschetta for Women.

Like all Roots leather bags, this jacket is made in Canada from 100% Italian leather. Soft and easy to wear. Tough and durable asymmetrical zipper front. Also comes with a traditional biker style collar with fold-over flap for wind resistance. Zipper pockets and sleeves. Durable, stylish and good looking.

Available in Black (as shown above) or Rustler (as shown below) at roots.com and select Roots stores.

(Correction Notice: Price listed in Metro is incorrect. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.)

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!

Related posts:

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

• Making a Fashion Statement on Wheels, Roots Style

• Hot Summer Sale: Up to 60% OFF*

• It's Almost Back to School Time