Hard to believe, but there are still some sticklers out there who maintain that wearing white after Labor Day is the ultimate crime of fashion. Sure, we have our theories on where those crazy notions came from (Prima Donna polar bears, we’re looking at you…) But here at Elfster, we’ve got our own almanac of arbitrary style no-no’s.

We know what you’re thinking. With garishly stripped stockings and a jingle bell on each foot, an Elf’s interpretation of “fashion” is about as loose as a pair of control-top pantyhose. But that’s doesn’t mean we’re completely without standards. Just take a look at our top secrets to smashing seasonal style and judge for yourself:

• No rhinestone-studded beer goggles after New Year’s.
• No “I’m With Stupid” T-shirts before Valentine’s.
• Only artificial mohair after Groundhog Day. (Preferably pink.)
• No green body suits until St. Patrick’s Day.
• Mandatory Dunce Caps on April Fools’.
• Earth tones on Earth Day, if you please.
• No terry cloth mankinis after Spring Break ‘07.
• Mullets strictly prohibited after Father’s Day.
• No stars OR stripes before the Fourth of July.
• False Hillbilly teeth are frowned upon after Halloween.
• Feather boas must wait until Thanksgiving leftovers are finished.
• Pointy hats acceptable year round.

Do you have any seasonal style rules or other arbitrary fashion mandates? We’d like to hear them!

Now, will you please consider doing something about those socks…

Photo credit: Shandi-lee , AnnaKika

Teva’s Ryley are not just attractive, or highly functional, or super comfortable – they’re sustainable. These casual ballet sneakers are made from 20%-30% post-consumer recycled material. Available at Sahalie for $69.95.

I think this love of mine has crossed over from funny to psychotic… I am obsessed with rain boots. It’s not just for rainy weather (though it sure does make life easier when it pours, and your feet stay completely dry all day), these boots are great for gardeners, dog owners and outdoorsy types. They are available practically everywhere now, and the prices can range from $20 at Target to $250 at designer brand retailers.

See more of my Rubber Boots Obsession list at ThisNext. (When you get to the list, click on the boot image to find out more information about the boots you like and the retailer that offers them.)

From Spain, these El Naturalista Clogs are my latest big find. As a clog fan, I’m always on the look out for "the one."  (If you wear clogs, you know exactly what I mean.)  These shoes can live on their good looks alone, but noooo, they have so many additional great traits, it’s almost mind-boggling. The leather is churned with ground tree bark and river stones for weeks to make the hide resilient to dirt, water, and daily wear and tear. The removable footbeds were designed with a shock absorb shock system to increase comfort, and they are made of recycled PU that has been combined with active carbon for antibacterial benefits. $135 at Amazon.

Surprisingly, I’ve found some killer beanies ranging from $11 to $40. They’re super fun, and they’re quite useful during the winter months.  Even better, most likely you will not see a duplication of this gift in the near future.

Edward Elric Cosplay Beanie, $13.99

Amazon

 Alphose Elric Cosplay Beanie, $11.99

Amazon

Klops Fleece Hat, $40
Creature Co-op

clubNAMCO

Okay, I cheated again. Not a beanie, but a great fleece hat though… 

Ninja Bunny Hat/Mask. $40
BunnyWarez

Leopard Kitty Hat, $25
BunnyWarez

I am surprised each and every time I am asked, "Did you lose your shoe laces?" Hmmm. I guess it’s not that obvious they’re sewn down to wear as slip-ons. These Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Slips are on my favorites list because they are the perfect casual street shoes – they don’t discriminate age, sex or hipster/non-hipster. Very few street fashion items can do this.  Amazingly, the environmentally conscious hemp actually looks good on this design. Again, very few things can achieve this.

Good news and bad news. The good news is they’re on sale for $39.99 (good deal!). The bad news? They’re discontinued and are available in three sizes only (Men’s 4.5-6.5 or Women’s 6.5-8.5). Sorry.

DesignYour Own at Converse.com, $60

Note: Sizing is unisex so it can be tricky. Plus Converse has their own sizing standards, so you may want to double-check the chart before paying.

Time to move on from those eco-unfriendly plastic grocery bags and upgrade to ones that can be used and reused. These Environax Bags were designed with sturdy straps that fit nicely on the shoulder and strong fabrication to hold lots and lots of groceries. Besides, they’re so much more attractive to tote around! A great under $10 gift exchange candidate, each is $7.95 at Amazon.