Christmas
Submitted by Suzanne on Wed, 11/14/2018 - 14:36
With so much global turmoil, any small, joy producing moment is something to embrace! Enter the season of glad tidings. Although life does not suddenly become a Normal Rockwell painting just because the calendar changed, there is still a glimmer of hope found in all of the decorations, get-togethers and all the adverts that erupt into festive wear (my favourite part). The bubble over my head usually says 'um, I'd wear that year round!' BUT that's just me. Maybe you'd like something fresh and fun but also chic and refined. Plenty of options at Plum from...to-heck-with-the-Christmas-tree-let's-just-decorate-me style...to... the sleek diva look and everything in between! Let's find a little something to light up your heart!
  
While mauve or purple is not a colour I tend to be drawn to, this top just stopped me in my tracks. It checks all the boxes, sexy, refined, edgy and unique. And worn with this exquisitely embroidered kimono you can't go wrong. And it's wonderful when you find pieces that don't end up deeply stored in your closet until next year. Very transferrable into multiple other seasons!
Talori embroidered kimono (black or burgundy) $98
Naked Zebra button front cami $55
 
 
I picked out four tops that I think are worth exploring. At this time of year, when the events and parties begin, what's required is not so much black tie, but more elevated but that can work with accessories. The top left sweater is all about texture and creates a feel (pun intended) all on it's own or would play against a vibrant statement necklace. The top right speaks for itself with it's bright jewel tone and bow tie front, a very festive, vibrant colour. Lace is always a go to, yet for the fun of it, one can button it up, add a necklace, mix it with a jean jacket, pencil skirt and flats for an easy going look. And the Audrey Hepburn look mock neck, while a basic, makes a wonderful item for supporting a fabulous necklace or accessories or even pulled back hair with outstanding, eye catching earrings.
Cream cowl neck fuzzy sweater (peach) $99
Soya Concept tie neck lyocell knit top (black or blue) $55
Soya Concept lace blouse (off white) $65
Soya Concept mock neck sweater (black) $59
And this top is a nice diversion from the usual of the season with a seeming angelic wingspan; looks fantastic paired with the crop pants. And I must say this stunning little top is rather hard to describe but I'll try. The top part is an overlay and the sleeves (the wingspan), are half with a half stretch cuff. Absolutely heavenly created blouse with a smouldering, autumn colour pallet.
Soya Concept double layer print blouse $69
One of my absolute favourites this year, the molten lava coloured pants and lightly dusted with sequins, sweater. Super stretchy pants with back zip and slight side slits. All that glitters isn't gold....sometimes it's just you that glitters!!
Cream double layer knit top $99
Cream gold pants (gold) $119
 
For many, while co-ordinates provide great options, it's all about the dress. The above blue velvet just sets the season so perfectly. Either glam it up with a fabulous necklace, maybe a long drop, crystal necklace or simply a pair of dangling earrings.
Kaffe lace insert dress (blue) $119
I'm including a display from one of the stores, as they have very well shown how easy it is to pull together a party look with the right components, which combines your personal style with the type of event. Play it up or play it down. I love how pink has emerged and rivals black as a possible colour option for the season.
"You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things, a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights!" ~ Maya Angelou. To which I say...pour me a big glass of red and let's get to work on those lights!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M. ... read the full post and reader comments
Submitted by Suzanne on Thu, 11/16/2017 - 15:02
There's still time...HEAD INTO a Plum location, try on a pair of YOGA JEANS (until November 19) and be entered to win a pair!
Bah Humbug: There are many fascinating possible origins of this utterance...BUH, is just an expletive, Humbug means 'fraud' or 'imposter'. However, put together they are typically associated with Charles Dickens 'A Christmas Carol'. Personally it means, 'meh', Christmas...too much fuss! Which makes me a true 'Humbug' as, contrary to my usual ways, I've already purchased some Christmas gifts, bought Christmas cards (yes I'm that old, I still do that), and am planning my outfits. After all, the season provides an excuse to be bright, look festive and have fun. Sort of like an open bar at a wedding, it's there, why not enjoy it. So, whether you celebrate this season or not, take in some of the joy, let it rub off on you, let your sparkle show (unless it's undies-no one needs to see those).
Sometimes, to up the fun of the season, it just means add something different...bolder. And by bold, I don't mean, red or glitter. This gorgeous sweater stands out, merely because of it's beguiling texture! Soft as a kittens arm pits! And hats add a lot of punctuating style to an outfit.
My ongoing love affair with the kimono trend continues. It adds a touch of interest to the outfit while also adding a bit of coverage and in this case, with this burnout velvet, the feel of elegance.
The 'Roaring 20's, in fashion, ushered in a tremendous amount of change; hair styles, clothing and attitudes. This dress really brings a 'Great Gatsby' feel. A sort of subtle glamour, with it's beautiful, detailed sequin design and v neck back, with just a bit of stretch. Worn above with the ICHI open jacket, brings it up to the current upcoming 20's.
The season which is upon is, isn't all about sparkle....well, not entirely. It's the smell of pine trees, scented candles and many textures. Velvet is the official seasonal fabric, once and forever. Crushed velvet, it's close cousin, is also in high demand. As a separate, this works as well with jeans, as it does with a skirt or tailored pants and provides a great backdrop for accessories. Also a must for the season.
Sometimes, the best gifts are...a phone call, a hand written card or shovelling someone's driveway. And it's never unseasonal to be good and kind to others, we don't need to reserve that to the last two months of the year.
Yours in sparkle passion...
Suzanne M.
'Christmas isn't a season, it's a feeling!' ~ Edna Ferber
Head into a Plum location nearest you; where you'll find a much larger selection of seasonal pieces, and gift ideas, as well as a truly tantalizing choice of accessories and jewellery.
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Submitted by Suzanne on Wed, 12/09/2015 - 12:45
It's that magical time of year for communications with loved ones from afar, gift buying, Christmas music and many festive events. We would love to enjoy all of it, but sometimes feel run ragged. Therefore, the last thing we want to do is fuss over the outfits. I take that back, I'd LOVE to spend time creating a fun, interesting ensemble that wow's all, however, more often than not, it's a scramble. Plum can't help with things like, deciding who's inlaws to spend Christmas day with, but can help with the outfit.
This is one of THE most divine pieces of fabric made into a dress that I've ever had. Despite it's rather unstructured form it's very appealing for probably 'all' shapes. I find it's not only great for this season, it's great for many occasions, suits different footwear and is so easy to care for because it seems to need little or none! Dress it up, dress it down, accessorize or not! Any combination will work.
Simone raglan sleeve with back elastic (silver rosette or gold floral) now $98
 
This is no plain Jane dress. Have a look at that naughty, tempting, full length zipper at the back. Totally easy to wear, gorgeous form fit but easy to add a statement necklace, pendant or shawl to.
Simone cowl neck dress (black or teal) now $ 95
Just call this a just-show-up dress. This dress does it all for you except drive you there! Honestly, as you can see from the above shot, the black pumps are fantastic with this. Gorgeous brocade pattern and wonderful fit and flare cut create an extremely tasteful look. And never ever fear what to do with your hands you fidgety ones...there are pockets!
Simone low vneck aline dress (grey/black or royal/black) $149
 
And for those of you who just 'cannot do' a dress, you've not been forgotten. There is always a place for lace in this season. Picture it with something like this amazing silver dangly heart, paired with a matching bracelet. Visit a Plum store for accessories to suit your outfit needs.
Loveriche blouse with lace edge (black, burgundy, ivory) $79
Amid the hustle and bustle, carve out some space for some fun, join some Christmas carolers, go ice skating, kiss someone under the mistletoe or make snow angels (or air angels)...but don't forget to head into a Plum store and let the experienced staff help you find your sparkle.
Happy Holiday Season to all...
Yours in Fashion Passion...
Suzanne M.
ps...if you're one of those lucky ones escaping to warmer climates...do not forget Plum has a large selection of resort wear!
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Submitted by Suzanne on Wed, 12/10/2014 - 15:08
PRE CHRISTMAS SALE ANYONE? Yes of course Plum has thought of this....so you can fit in more gifts!
Have a look at some of the great specials available now at the Pre-Christmas sale
Christmas glitter? Are you fully enmeshed in the Christmas tinsel rush? How to stay calm at Christmas, keep from feeling overburdened while being able to enjoy the festive time? One can easily get extremely overwhelmed by the daunting tasks at hand. Making lists, packing things to go via post, wrapping; yet still attending many functions and fitting in the regular duties. It's hard to remain sane! (as is my perpetual challenge).
Here's a mini seasonal survival guide:
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Make a list. Yes Santa does this for very good reason. Make a list, check it many times, revise it, add dates to it (whereby it might be too late 'to do' at which point, then you can, of course, cross it off-bonus!).
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Christmas greetings. Cut down on Christmas cards, send some via ecards instead. Still personal enough, but less time expended, still allowing you to keep in touch. Which is clearly the real intent.
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Gatherings. If you're having get-to-gethers at your place, possibly have a bring and share (pot luck). Make or even purchase a few key things. Frankly people just enjoy the getting together, rarely is the food the full focus.
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Ask for Help. If you have children, give them tasks. This teaches them how incredibly valuable their input is. If they're little they probably enjoy making the ornaments for the tree (or as gifts). So much more personal and fun.
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Shop locally. Put on the most comfy shoes (not the cute ones), pack a bag and make a day of it, include coffee breaks at the best café's. Some of the best most unique, personal gifts come from our local, small retailers. Plus who does not want to say they buy local! Santa would be proud!
And on that note, lets have a look at a few great things, Plum can assist with. And remember--it's not all about gift giving, some of it is about just enjoying....
Even if you won't be spending Christmas in Paris..... look like you did! A fun, sweatshirt to keep things easy yet still with a bit of glitz. I love it with the jeans and envision some great pumps, with the jeans cuffed. OR gift one to the traveller in your life.
Soyaconcept Paris pullover $69 (white with sequin 'Paris' lettering)
And of course scarves are so easy to give and always great to receive. Who does not like red at Christmas. This one is fabulous because it's ample size allows it to double as a shawl.
Look wool/acrylic plaid scarf $35 (red plaid or hunter green plaid)
Bags are another brilliant choice. While one can use this as a regular, every day bag, can be used also as a weekend/travel bag. Comes with a detachable shoulder strap and 2 inner pockets.
Street Level tote $65 $46
In short, try to enjoy the season, the music, the twinkling lights...the general feeling it all invokes. When all else fails, there's always eggnog.
Your in fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
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Submitted by Suzanne on Tue, 11/25/2014 - 19:17
Plum has a great sale for the next 4 days. No need to brave the border lineups! I've noted a few of the great deals below but I had to preface it all by noting that Plum's exquisitely constructed Tobias coats (select styles) are on sale. (an exceptional deal at $ 100 off the regular price)...Along with scarf and jewelry specials, jackets and more.
Ok who here has already started shopping for Christmas, put up Christmas lights, sent out Christmas cards or snuck an eggnog latte? Raise your hand if you're already listening to Christmas music. The season is fast approaching. I'm noticing that I'll ponder purchasing something for a few days, when I return to purchase it (online or not) it's gone, surprisingly, although it's just November. Getting in front of the seasonal 'to do' list, will save you in the long run.
However, and whenever you like to prepare for the season, Plum has some ideas for you. So, enjoy the sale and pick up a few great things for friends or relatives. Lets have a look:
 
Who does not love PJ's for Christmas...Sshhhh, don't tell anyone, but I don't bother to buy them because I know I'll get them....(from Santa)...aren't these adorable? Clearly great for the cat lover or coffee addict. Already nicely presented, wrapped in a ribbon, makes gifting easy. Can't you see these on your Gramma?
DKR&CO. PJ's. 100% cotton (multiple patterns available)
regularly $ 40 per set (For these 4 days only purchase 2 sets for $ 50)
These pieces are so divine, it would be hard to part with one of them, however, that's also an option (a piece for you, a piece for your best friend?). Such a beautiful, elegantly bold, bohemian look with the multiple colours. I'll leave that conundrum of which to keep and which to give away, to you!
For 4 days only Plum is offering jewelry buy 1, get the second one at 50% off.
 
And it's really not too early to start thinking about the office parties, or even New Years...this glitzy little bag or the magazine print clutch for the fashion lover (no I'm not dropping hints!). Both excellent options for all black, a hint of red or hot pink shoe and a dazzling necklace. Or go all out with a monochromatic look of another colour. The black and white of the clutch is a great companion for any other colour.
For 4 days only all purses are 25% off.
Enough about other people and what to get them. How about a scarf to pump up your wardrobe. Clearly an easy pick because, needless to say, one size fits all.
4 days only at Plum SCARVES are 25% off. (so, you can think of others, if need be ;)
Try to enjoy the varied, seasonal activities in December, by starting early, beating the usual crowds, gift choices are also at their optimum. All in all, just go and enjoy the sale (passport not needed!). If you're prepared to start searching for the right gifts now, here's a great opportunity. Or find something for yourself and make something with those old, previously loved jeans as hand made gifts are always cherished. So many great suggestions came in on the survey. I've included a few great ones below for you to steal.
Yours in fashion passion
Suzanne M.
So much creativity...enjoy:
The question posed on the survey was "What do you do with your old denim?"
The results showed:
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60% donate to charity
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15% make them into shorts
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10% kept them indefinitely
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8% give to sister, Mother, roommate (etc)
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balance are varied responses
And below are some of the notable submissions (you are definitely a generous, creative group):
“cut into strips , use them in my smoker for my beehive. Cotton burns nice and slow” Anonymous
“cut off the pant legs into 12 inch sections fill them with barly/wheat and sew them together to make heating/ cooling bags, works great...makes great gifts” Caroline
“I used my son's old jeans as part of his home made Halloween costume. I cut off the legs and put these on his arms with old runners on his hands. His arms stuck out if the shark's costume I had made. It looked like the shark had eaten someone!” Nicola
“I make gift bags out of them, lined with a previously loved t-shirt” Dee
“I have ripped them into strips and use them for tying my garden plants.” Laurel
“I have made (sewed) a closet organizer with old jeans, sewed pockets on parts of jeans and then attached to a hanger” Anita
And this one we liked because it just sounded like so much fun!
"My friend has a "clothing swap" twice a year. About 30 women get together with bags of clothes they no longer wear(and often bring bags from other friends) The host holds up each item (this takes all afternoon) while we sit and enjoy all of the yummy food and wine that we also bring. She holds up the item, says the size and the brand. you put out a call if you want the item. If no one shouts out, then they get tossed to her beautiful assistant to rebag. All of the re-bagged items go directly to women's shelters in downtown Vancouver and schools (yes, we bring our kids clothes too) When more than one person shouts out for an item, they each have to try on and model and the group decides who it looks best on. A fun day, and at the end bags and bags of lots of jeans, jackets, shirts, dresses for women needed help at that time . There are always LOTS of jeans!" Lyanne
Thanks to everyone for your contributions.
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