dress

All in the details

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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

 
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COUPON TIME! Grab your coupon here ('til Oct.16).

$20 off a regular priced clothing or accessories purchase of $95.

Ever have those days where it's a struggle to get it together? Example...today, despite the generous, inspirational sunshine, my outfit manages to bear a great resemblance to Johnny Cash. The only thing missing is the guitar, and June Carter!  Some days the 'throw together' just does not 'come together'.  Not trying to promote selfies, but... if in doubt, take one and have a look, as the visual is different from the mirror. That is, if there is no one around to give you a kind, yet honest opinion(if you in fact, want one ;). Better yet, shop in person at Plum, they will definitely help guide your look!

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Clashy patterns is really a thing now. The black and white can be treated as neutral to the other chosen pattern. Don't like it? That's ok, mix something up that suits you. Both are a backdrop to the fabulous vest/jacket, however. Add the reverse pockets with zip, long, finger tip length, which elongates the body and you have a great fall piece. Go get one now, I'll wait here!

Kersh bonded Sherpa vest (caramel cream) $88

Acapella long sleeve tie front blouse (black or forest) $89

Kersh printed pencil skirt (brown) $59

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Here's a gorgeous contrast textured look that most of us have grown to love, the feminine lace with rugged, worn denim. Above shown with heels, easy to add a shawl or blazer and some great earrings for a girls night out look.

Kersh capsleeve lace top (cream) $65

Emma boyfriend dark R vintage $108

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Graphic t's have no trouble mixing it up with other patterns. It works very well if both have at least one colour in common. Paired with this dramatic draped front sweater, brings it up a notch!

Nanavatee open front drapey cardigan (black) $66

Bear Dance 'sorry I'm late' t shirt $35

 

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If pulling it together to you is putting on a dress and going...this simple, fresh design is for you. Wear this with a jean jacket or bomber jacket (very hot right now) and knee high boots for casual dates. The textured fabric has so much stretch; accommodates all your daily bend and flex with no effort.

Simone dress with elbow sleeve (burgundy or green) $139

My Father loved Johnny Cash, so maybe he'd be proud of his 'girl' named Sue...But, even after much more than 30 years (go Hillary) of dressing, sometimes, it just doesn't work out perfectly as planned for me. But that's ok. There's really no one voting for me!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

Don't forget your coupon!! So, many fabulous things to check out!   ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Feelin' it!

What guides your fashion choices? Body shape or size, how you feel in it, what you read or something else? For one thing, we're quite influenced by others opinions. After all, people read blogs (wink) and fashion magazines and are convinced they 'must' buy a turquoise, wide, vegan studded belt because...well, Vogue said it's a 'must!' Or feel just so 'empowered' in pink! This is where Plum staff come in. Convey your intention to them and they can help guide you, so the feeling is expressed in how you look!

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I would say the feeling here Mona Lisa is, 'I feel so fabulous that if I so much as smile, it would be over-the-top'! This very understated, dress comes in very autumnal hues and can also be worn as a tunic (depending on your height).

Simone cocoon dress (with pockets) (black, plum or wine) $129

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Maybe there has always got to be a different or unusual element to your style choice. A great addition to your casual wardrobe, this top incorporates something unique with the asymmetric zipper to an otherwise basic style.

Very J asymmetric knit top with zipper (charcoal or olive) $69

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Perhaps you like to make yourself and everyone around you laugh...(or you love cats); graphic t's are a great addition. The feeling is light hearted and the simple nature of the colours make matching a breeze!

Bear Dance 'I work hard' (black) t shirt $35

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If showing your feminine shape is the ultimate requirement, check out this absolutely stunning Simone design. Very forgiving fabric as it's comprised of poly/rayon and spandex. As well the collar adds a slight retro feel to the whole fitted, 50's vibe.

Simone sheath dress with collar (blue or wine) $149

Speak your feelings with what you wear... (But using a dictionary never hurt anyone)! ;)

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

Check out Plum's online store at any time, but for more personal service, check one of Plum's 7 locations near you. Very well fashion educated staff are happy to assist you!

   ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Chromophobia party!

GREAT NEWS: Plum is excited to announce it's new 'POP UP 'PIECES' STORE' at UBC...just in time for back to school, for a limited time only, check it out at the UBC BOOKSTORE!
 
A stark departure from the wonderful Pride events (colours and all), a newly emerged trend is Le Dîner en Blanc. Pride is an 'anything goes' and 'all welcome' type public social party! Dîner (began in France thirty years ago) is a refined, distinguished, elegant affair, by invitation only. Both are wonderful, however, one is a bit more of a stain magnet, as the requirement is 'white only' (everything)! This lovely, community building affair, affords you the opportunity to dress elegantly, bring a guest, and meet new people as you sit and converse, surrounded by a stunning white decor. Sounds great (I mean divine!)...So... let's get dressed!
 
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Go ahead and flirt. You know you can't help it in this dress. It's fresh, stunning and sexy! White eyelet is perfect for such an event and so form fitting.
 
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Another excellent choice is anything with lace or embroidery. This gorgeous top matches well with white pants or a maxi skirt.
 
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Show a little shoulder. Very much an 'in' trend this season. Great length if you wish to add a belt or use as a scarf instead. Perhaps add pearls and a white clutch!Image
 
A must have for the evening. Worn above as a scarf, doubles as a shawl...because the venue's are unknown ahead of time, you could be near the water. Don't let the evening breezes catch you off guard. Be prepared.
 
 
I love white...some of my favourite things are white...wine, sugar, Betty, liquid paper (throw back Thursday)....and of course a dress!! Nice to know one need not be a stressed out bride to wear one! If you're fortunate enough to be attending or invited, have a wonderful time, (and just in case, don't forget your umbrella...the white one!).
 
Yours in Fashion passion...
 
Suzanne M.
 
For more information on Le Dîner en Blanc...follow this link.  check availability in a Plum store near you. As well, new fall arrivals in store now!
 
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Girls in white dresses

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Wedding season is in full swing...outdoor, under the gazebo, beach, and even bungee jumping off a cliff...'type' weddings...(GULP)...Often, as a guest, a dress is the go-to choice. However, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are some thoughts. Venue might give you a clue (such as 'beach' location, perhaps a pretty sundress with a shawl). If you're unclear on colour choice, and you're part of the family, possibly consult with the maid of honor about colour theme. If unsure if the dress is too short...it probably is! But most of all, if you have hopes of catching the bouquet, don't upstage the bride!

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This is a wonderful option. Features a  lovely, light pink hue, textured fabric and it passes the 'finger tip' test for length. A great opportunity to play up the neckline with a fabulous necklace. Edit the shoes to suit the location, possibly black pumps if the venue is more formal, and perhaps a hat or an updo.

Simone crew neck dress with pockets

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This is one of my favourites from this season. Floral's are often the pattern of choice at a wedding for obvious reasons. This dress is extremely comfortable as well as stunning (don't forget, you might be asked to dance).

Simone printed knit dress with back detail

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Perhaps something slightly more fashion forward and the black and white pattern make it an easy background for bright red lipstick, shoes or a clutch.

Numph Itsuki dress

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What could be better than a fresh, minty eyelet dress. So sweet with it's graceful v-neckline, a-line skirt and yes, pockets. We love our pockets!

Simone v-neck eyelet dress with pockets

So when things don't seem to be going your way...when the dog bites, the bee stings, and you're feeling sad, you can simply remember your dress is on sale and then you don't feel...so bad! ;)

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

  • Note availability of above noted dresses, sizes and colours varies currently from store to store. Please visit a Plum store near you.
  • CONGRATULATIONS to Plum's Big Sisters May campaign draw winner 'Carmen' ..sounds like she's enjoying her prize.
  • New arrivals are already arriving!
 
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