design

What does it take to design a gorgeous dress like this one? A lot of creativity, skill and a superior eye for fashion. I asked Plum's designer Claudia "What was your inspiration for this dress"? Her surprising answer was..."It started with the fabric, I loved the strong hounds tooth pattern of this print and the weight and texture of the fabric. I wanted to do something that looked somewhat tailored but was comfortable and easy to wear." I'm sure the inspiration for your own creative endeavors is also something unexpected (a colour, a food group, even a person)... And yet another one of Claudia's many great talents, is in the unique details of each of her designs. Details that help give unique definition to your look.

This is really a sweet little dress with a hint of retro, given a bit of punch by the exaggerated hounds tooth print. A very functional fabric, with a sculpted looking cut, but very cute and fun at the same time. Try it with tights and booties or a kitten heel. Add a hat for a bit of a funky look.

Simone short sleeve A-line dress (purple or red) $129 now $98

Do not even try to talk yourself out of this one. I certainly won't help you because I could barely contain myself when I saw it. This is a dress that is so sexy and fits like a dream, yet by no means is too risque or impedes movement. And don't let the stretch lace fool you into thinking you can only wear this for a Christmas party...Try it with the new embroidered bomber jackets or a distressed jean jacket, add Cuban heel boots or skin tight, knee high velvet boots for a 'date night' look.

Simone lace sheath dress with slip (black or plum) $169

The colour of the season is a deep wine, burgundy...or Plum ;)...The Simone dress above is such a fantastic innovation. Comprised of a knee length tank style dress with a flowey, arc shaped, pleated back, over top. Wear the tank dress on it's own, wear the top on it's own (perhaps with a high waisted pencil skirt) or wear them together, ultimately giving a subtle, goddess like, look.

Simone tank dress with layered top (black or Plum) $149

More than meets the eye! At first glance, this dress appears to be a simple, unstructured knit...which it is however, there's more to it. A beautiful, light knit and sweet ribbon tie back, apart from the feminine touch, allows the wearer to ever so slightly alter the length based on how tight the back is done up. So ingenious!

Simone flared dress with tie back (brown or navy/magenta) $110

Given that most of us cannot afford our own personal couturier's, Claudia designs with form and function in mind, her designs are as close as one could come. Her ability to always incorporate what's practical while never loosing sight of what's interesting and fun makes her designs work for everyone. And in her words "you cannot underestimate the importance of comfort". I'm only grateful she doesn't also design shoes or I'd have to live in one!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.  ... read the full post and reader comments

BIG SISTERS CAMPAIGN NOW ON. You could win a gift certificate worth $350. 

What's the best thing about shopping locally? Oh to narrow it down to one thing! Goods are made by people who work here, goods don't go into shipping containers and use fewer shipping companies (if any), employs your neighbour, no import fees...need I go on? I bet you knew all that. But did you know that most of what non profits receive are from local retailers. We can't control a lot of our surroundings but it's one of the few things we can have a say in. We can play a big part in the success of our local business'.

One other important fact: local businesses (like Plum) often carry goods exclusive to them, not found at multiple chain retailers. Like they're designing just for you.

A simply stunning little dress with great details such as, bold colour, rayon blend (which means it hangs so nicely),flattering shape, lined and with a delightful little cut out in the back...so fresh, it's like it grew in your garden. I can think of 15 different ways to work this dress. With a bold statement necklace (or a simple locket), pumps or funky heels, a scarf, a jacket or a shawl, or the 'jean jacket'...a multitude of different looks possible!

Simone shift dress with back cutout (fuchsia and scuba blue) $129

This is another fresh easy look. The graphic patterns, are like accessories on their own. So many great colours to incorporate into your wardrobe. I love also how the designer never forgets the back details. Because when you walk away, you want to be remembered! ;)

Plum sleeveless blouse with faux collar (black, black/orange, green, orange and royal prints) $59

Here's a trend you may want to jump in on. The jogger, done so well here by Plum. A great poly/spandex mix; a fabric mix that flows so nicely together (not to mention travels well). This textured fabric is still light enough for the season. And note how they're worn with pumps, which gives them a decidedly edgier look or don't resist your compulsion to wear them with your flats or flip flops. Just depends on the look you want to create.

Plum jogger with drawstring waistband (olive or black) $79

Yet another very efficient wardrobe addition. Long enough to possibly serve as a dress with capri tights one day, crop pants another day, add a double wrap belt or take it to a pool party and use as a light coverup. Many very cool options.

Plum sleeveless tunic shirt (black, black/off white, royal) $85

So many great reasons to shop locally, one of which is, so you can save your money for your travels, not your goods to travel.

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne

PLUM has been a long time supporter of Big Sisters. With their annual fundraising campaign, you have a chance to win a $350 gift certificate simply by making a donation to Big Sisters.  Plum will match your donation up to $25. Make a donation, help Plum match a big sister with a little sister and possibly win a gift certifate. Check in store for details.   ... read the full post and reader comments