dress

Age and fashion are a touchy subject but... I'm 'going there'! I recently read an online article about a supermodel being knocked off of her pedestal by a fashion editor proclaiming, 'you're too old to wear that!', in reference to the over 50 super model WEARING A BUSTIER (FAKE-GASP!!)'.  I asked myself, (after examining the photo multiple times) is this a photo of her at 30 because she is by no means a typical 50 year old neither in appearance nor profession.  It looked perfectly acceptable to me, after all she was going to a bash, not presenting a dissertation! Regardless...I never looked this way at 40, 30 OR 20! And needless to say, It's unlikely to be work attire for any of us, unless, well...you ARE a model!  My personal opinion...if you're buying it, wear it wherever you see fit! But let's have a look at some ageless fashion. At least my over 50 year old eyes, think so:

Fear not, the fashion police will not show up at your door. After all, is there an age expiry on sexy? This is a bold, fashion forward, statement! You don't need permission to show up and show off! Yes, you will get noticed! But that's the idea.

Spencer+Shaw zebra dress (zebra print) was $149 NOW $95 in store only

When the weather gets melting hot, and you feel so inclined, just do it, why hide if you're not shy. Although if you are a bit, note how the look on the right, still keeps it cool, but adds a dimension of demurity! (no, I did not make that word up!).

Spencer+Shaw asymmetrical stripe dress (white/navy) $132

Do Everything In Love asymmetrical knit shawl (5 colours) $45

Red is for everyone! As smashing on the dark haired model as would be on a red head, as would be on someone with snow white hair! By all means add accessories of choice OR simply just red lipstick and make your entrance! Made of rayon, which is such a great flowey fabric in a slip dress design, likely a staple in everyone's wardrobe.

Spencer+Shaw midi length slip dress (red hot) $99

This super artistic, split, pieced pattern kimono in a very neutral, nearly nude shade is just so chill looking. Add a sun hat and your favourite walking shoes and you have a grab and go look for most warm weather days!

Do Everything In Love side stripe kimono (beige) $49

Crop pants, especially wider leg pants, are everywhere this season. While they compel us to wear with flat shoes, they look just as great with heels, and wedges. It's entirely up to the destination and, of course, your mood.

Kaffe cropped rayon pant (olive or black) $79

Chris+Carol tank top (5 colours) $32

On the left a very casual sporty dress. Too short you might say? If the thought of something above the knee, makes you dive under the covers... don't stress. Try wearing it with bicycle shorts and a crop cardigan, kimono or even long cardigan for evenings or waterfront walks! The look on the right...too mature? Consider that at any age, we might need a professional look be it for an office, interview, school or medical facilities type professions.

Ichi sleeveless dress (navy, bisque or black) $59

Cream side gathered dress (bottle green or cobalt) $89

Age is really just a number on our drivers license. It doesn't really dictate whether we choose cotton candy over carrots or crossword puzzles over crayons! Tasteful is in the eyes of status quo, it seems...or...maybe your boss, and your Mother in Law! Ok just try not to scare your grandmother or children! However, do have some fun with your style!! Creativity and fun have no age limits!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

"Don't look for society to give you permission to be yourself" ~ Dr. Steve Maraboli

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Don't forget...Plum can also be found on INSTAGRAM!

There are multiple versions of where Valentine came about or the need to celebrate it. One possible version has it's roots in religion (Catholic). Stating, during the time of Emperor Claudius II, Valentine was a priest. Claudius felt that single men were better as soldiers, thus he forbade marriage for young men. Valentine saw this as a travesty and bravely defied the rule and secretly performed marriages for young lovers. Only to meet his fate and was put to death. Thus it's thought we celebrate his death or burial. Hm, how cheery! But where did the red come from? Or Chocolates? I'm not honestly sure I even care! But we do benefit from both. Let's look at some possible date night possibilities:

How much do you love this!! Let me count the ways! I think this outfit is just as cute as a candy apple! The heart has texture, don't you think? Put together with the plaid pants, a great date outfit, for hanging out with your girl gang or....a date with you! 'Me' time is super important as well.

Mak crew neck heart sweater (black/pink or Navy/oatmeal) $69

Motion elastic waist pant (navy) $89

Move over Beyoncé....we just put a bow on it instead! A sweet tongue in cheek version of a men's shirt with a twist! I love the fresh way this is being expressed in this picture...keeping it simple with black pumps. And who needs a date...dress up for you (or your Mom, or your sister!)

FIND THIS instore only!

This is absolutely adorable and bold as your feelings! Take the casual away from this by adding a long coat or blazer and some cut out ankle boots, knee high boots or riding boots. These resin hearts have been hugely popular. Find them in other colours as well in store.

Be Cool hooded sweater (black or lavender) $69

Leggings and resin heart found in store in various prints and colours

Also what I found attributed to Claudius II, 'heart on your sleeve' reference; speculation in regards to his prohibiting marriage, yet he did allow temporary coupling, during a festival. Men would draw names to establish who their lady friend would be for the year (Interesting concept!).  He would then wear her name on his sleeve for the duration of the festival. A sweet concept but how would that work today with privacy laws! That's not a very romantic thought, sorry!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

"But I will wear my heart on my sleeve, for daws to peck at!" ~ Shakespeare's - Othello, Act 1, Scene 1, 56–65

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While the habit of being late is not typically viewed positively...show of hands, who thinks the delay of autumn weather is 'A-OKAY? We mostly look forward to the richness of fall colours, but truly, it will get dark, cold and kind of dreary! Rarely, are there times, where lateness is seen as a glorious thing... although recently when Prince Harry heard his wife utter... 'I'm late', that would be considered an exception! BUT, mostly, those who are chronically, punctually challenged leave us all scratching our heads (or banging them) and wondering why. Does it help to know, studies have shown that the feeling of time passing, just feels different to those who tend to be 'delayed'? Why don't we try to look on the bright side of tardiness...summer extends her stay with us...and thus dress season can continue!

I love this dress. Yes it sports a very spring like print, however, as long as flowers are still blooming, why can't we wear them on our dresses (or yes, in your hair oh bohemian one)! Above the look shows sophistication worn with classic heels (by all means add a long strand of beads). Alternately, create a funky look with knee high boots, an infinity scarf* and for the night time chill, wear with this pin stripe jacket (not matching exactly gives it a bit more edge). However, if mixing patterns is not your thing, try a basic cardigan, or solid jacket or even a jean jacket and balance out the femininity of the dress with a fedora!

(*creating an infinity scarf out of long scarf is as simple as tying a knot in the ends and wrapping it around your neck several times...voila-new scarf)

Spencer+Shaw sleeveless elastic waist dress (black and pink or black and yellow prints) $110 Oct 18 to 21 30% off

Kaffe pin stripe jacket (grey stripe) $149

Oh...I had legs like this once.....on my Barbie....just kidding, I preferred building blocks....but I digress, this is such a gorgeous 'going out/date night/party' dress. I also think it calls for equally stunning heels or ankle boots. Or perhaps downplay the footwear and turn up the notch on the accessories (the neckline yearns for an eye catching necklace or several).

Spencer+Shaw ruffle trim wrap dress (black combo) $149 Oct.18 to 21 30% off